Caribbean - Blogs - Tripatini2024-03-29T05:45:05Zhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/feed/tag/CaribbeanA Quick Peek at the Best of Bonairehttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/bonaire-dutch-caribbean2024-03-23T17:25:10.000Z2024-03-23T17:25:10.000ZJordan Simonhttps://tripatini.com/members/JordanSimon<div><p><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12403642676,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12403642676,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12403642676?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mattkieffer/49929672541" target="_blank">Matt Kieffer</a></em></span><br /><br /><br />One of the “ABC” islands* of the <strong>Dutch Antilles</strong>, just 50 miles off the coast of <strong>Venezuela</strong>, this 111-square-mile island is a welcoming and tranquil trove of eco-adventure (which they play up with the tourism tagline “It´s in Our Nature”), and it´s known especially for its diving and snorkeling. For a nice, laid-back slice of the old <strong>Caribbean</strong> (albeit a pretty arid one, so please don´t go expecting luxuriant greenery), many travelers in the know very much appreciate this off-the-beaten-path destination – more than 17,000 just last month, not counting cruise ship port calls. And here´s a sampling of what they come for:<br /><br /><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://bonaireisland.com/experiences/sightseeing/sites/downtown-kralendijk/" target="_blank">Capital Kralendijk</a></strong></span><br /><br />On the lower west coast, with around 17,000 residents (out of the island´s total population of 24,000), this is a charming town (top) of colorful, low-slung buildings - some with those distinctive Dutch gable roofs - and plenty of shops, restaurants, bars, and galleries, especially along its main drag <strong>Kaya Grandi</strong> (“Big Street” in the local language <strong>Papiamento</strong>, a hybrid of Portuguese, Spanish, and Dutch). Cultural/historical highlights in <strong>Playa</strong> (as it´s also known in Papiamento) include the <strong><a href="https://terramarmuseum.com/" target="_blank">Terramar Museum</a></strong> of island history; wee yellow <strong>Fort Oranje</strong>, dating back to 1639, with its iconic lighthouse; and the <strong>Pasanggrahan</strong>, the 134-year-old seat of the island´s parliament (the local tourism office hands out pamphlets outlining a self-guided tour).<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12403641679,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12403641679,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12403641679?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rincon,_Bonaire.jpg" target="_blank">Dave Bezaire<br /></a></span></p><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://bonaireisland.com/experiences/sightseeing/sites/rincon/" target="_blank">Rincon</a></strong></span><br /><br />Bonaire´s other town (pop. 1,900), located in an inland valley up north, is the Dutch Caribbean´s oldest settlement – founded by the Spanish (hence the Spanish name, meaning "corner") in 1527. It´s a cute village consisting mostly of colourful little houses, with landmarks including the 117-year-old <strong>St. Louis Bertrand Church</strong>; <strong>Mangazina di Rei</strong>, a historic warehouse built between 1799 and 1824 that´s Bonaire´s second oldest surviving building; the <strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/RoseInnRincon/" target="_blank">Rose-Inn</a></strong> bar and restaurant; and the <strong><a href="https://www.cadushy.com/" target="_blank">Cadushy Distillery</a></strong>, where Dutch owner <strong>Eric Gieter</strong> welcomes visitors and which besides a very nice (and award-winning) rum and whiskey specializes in booze using the island´s Kadushi cactus, including vodka, gin, and its signature, bright green Cadushy liqueur. The town´s big day each year is the <strong>Dia de Rincon</strong> celebration - the island´s biggest - on April 30</p><p><br /><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12403643098,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12403643098,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12403643098?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.stockvault.net/photo/202465/elkhorn-coral" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>Stockvault</em></span><br /></a></p><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://bonaireisland.com/experiences/diving/" target="_blank">Spectacular Snorkeling/Scuba</a></strong></span></p><p>As mentioned above, this is Bonaire´s number-one attraction, with an abundance of coral reefs harboring colorful tropical fish as well as giant sea turtles, rays, and octopi. The entire island is surrounded by the <strong>Bonaire National Marine Park</strong>, with many dozens of sites and dive shops all up and down the coasts (though there are more of them on the west than the east coast, which is windier and rockier). Even more appealing is that many are accessible from the shore, without having to take a boat excursion out to the reefs.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Washington-Slagbaai_National_Park_(2447781210).jpg" target="_blank"><br /></a><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12403644663,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12403644663,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12403644663?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Washington-Slagbaai_National_Park_(2447781210).jpg" target="_blank">Paul Asman and Jill Lenoble<br /></a></em></span></p><p><strong><a href="https://stinapabonaire.org/washington-slagbaai-national-park/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:14pt;">Washington Slagbaai National Park</span></a></strong></p><p>Nearly 22 square miles way up in the northwest not far from Rincon, its landscapes include Kadushi-cactus-covered hills, mangroves, salt pans, pristine beaches like <strong>Boca Slagbaai</strong>, and Bonaire´s highest point (790 feet), <strong>Subi Brandaris</strong>. There are plenty of hiking trails, and the park is especially great for birdwatching, with one of the star species is the pink flamingos of its salt pans, and another particularly cool thing to do is jump into the sea from the 25-foot cliff at a point called <strong>Boca Slagbaai</strong>. There´s also a museum/visitor center, and a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended.</p><p><br /><span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12403697484,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12403697484,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12403697484?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://es.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Archivo:BONAIRE_FLAMINGO_SANCTUARY.jpg" target="_blank">JERRYE AND ROY KLOTZ MD</a></span></p><p><strong><br /><a href="https://bonaireisland.com/experiences/sightseeing/sites/pekelmeer-flamingo-sanctuary/"><span style="font-size:14pt;">Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary</span></a></strong> <br /><br />Speaking of <strong><em>Phoenicopterus ruber</em></strong>, Pekelmeer (Dutch for “Salt Lake,” thanks to the salt flats here) at the island´s southern tip just a few miles from Kralendijk is one of the only spots in the world where these beautiful birds breed (which makes the locals so proud they´ve got a flamingo in their tourism logo). And the colony here during the January-to-July breeding season swells to a staggering 10,000 strong. Quite an amazing sight! And if you´re a birder, you´ll also be thrilled by the dozens of other species that flock here, such as cormorants, herons, frigate birds, osprey, and other marine avians.</p><p><br /><span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12403698064,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12403698064,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12403698064?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.istockphoto.com/es/foto/playa-en-la-isla-klein-bonaire-caribe-gm1147303821-309422008" target="_blank">Studio Barcelona</a></span></p><p><a href="https://www.istockphoto.com/es/foto/playa-en-la-isla-klein-bonaire-caribe-gm1147303821-309422008"><br /></a><strong><span style="font-size:14pt;"><a href="https://bonaireisland.com/experiences/sightseeing/sites/klein-bonaire/" target="_blank">Klein Bonaire</a></span> </strong></p><p>Part of the <strong>Bonaire National Marine Park</strong>, this uninhabited island just a half mile off the west coast – just 2⅓ square miles – is a treasure for unspoiled sands like “<strong>No Name Beach</strong>” as well as awesome dive and snorkeling spots. You can get here via water taxi from Kralendijk and some resorts, and some organized tours also include this on their itineraries.</p><p><br /><span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12403699491,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12403699491,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12403699491?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/brookward/51327695321" target="_blank">Brook Ward<br /></a></span></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:14pt;"><a href="https://bonaireisland.com/experiences/sightseeing/sites/lac/" target="_blank">Lac Bay</a></span> </strong></p><p>Down south on the east coast, just 15 minutes from Kralendijk, this bay (more properly a lagoon, which by the way is the largest in the ABC islands) boasts its own fabulous sandy beach and is especially known for windsurfing (some of the best in the world, it´s said), but also great for stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking – both out on the bay and in one of the Caribbean´s best preserved mangrove forests.</p><p><br /><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PiuTojAGnmo?si=dFjVCz5AN19itDdK" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> </p><p><strong><a href="https://bonaireisland.com/experiences/beaches/"><span style="font-size:14pt;"><br />More Magnificent Beaches</span></a></strong><br /><br />Besides the ones at Lac Bay, Washington Slagbaai, and on Klein Bonaire, the island is home to more than 15 of the Caribbean’s sweeter strands, including <strong>Bachelor´s Beach</strong> (in the south, perfect for “getting away from it all”); <strong>Sorobon</strong> (also down south and like Lac Bay a windsurfing/kitesurfing magnet); <strong>Te Amo</strong> (closest to Kralendijk and especially swell for snorkeling); and for more services and amenities, resort beaches like <strong>Coco Beach Club</strong>, <strong>Divi Flamingo Beach Resort and Casino</strong>,<strong> Eden Beach Resort</strong>, and <strong>Spice Beach Club</strong>.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12403701684,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12403701684,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="750" alt="12403701684?profile=RESIZE_930x" /></a><a href="https://www.donkeysanctuary.org/?lang=en" target="_blank">Donkey Sanctuary</a></em></span></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.donkeysanctuary.org/?lang=en"><span style="font-size:14pt;">Donkey Sanctuary</span></a></strong><br /><br />For a delightful animal encounter, get your ass down to this spread just ten minutes outside Kralendijk, run since 1993 by a Dutch couple and now housing more than 800 free-roaming donkeys. You can drive, bike, or walk through, and buy grass packs to make dozens of new four-legged friends very quickly!</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12403699893,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12403699893,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12403699893?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Blokarten.jpg" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;">Djuna Vaesen</span></a><br /></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:14pt;"><a href="https://infobonaire.com/unique-tours/bonaire-landsailing-adventures/" target="_blank">Land Sailing</a></span> </strong></p><p>Also known as sand yachting, dirt boating, and more locally “blokarting,” whizzing along sandy flats on individual sailboats with wheels sport provides a cool adrenaline rush that needs no previous experience (just a quick tutorial) and can be done by almost anyone of almost any age. There are a bunch of spots to give it a go, mostly on Bonaire´s east side, where the breezes are stiffer.</p><p><br />For more info, check out <strong><a href="https://bonaireisland.com/experiences/sightseeing/sites/pekelmeer-flamingo-sanctuary/">BonaireIsland.com</a></strong>.</p><p><br /><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>*the A being Aruba and the C standing for Curaçao.</em></span></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZV2F-NOh2cw?si=I4Xjt6u5AtlETNl8" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> </em></span></p><p> </p></div>11 of the Best Experiences in Haitihttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/haiti-attractions-tourism-travel-beaches2024-03-23T15:50:00.000Z2024-03-23T15:50:00.000ZDavid Paul Appellhttps://tripatini.com/members/DavidPaulAppell16<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12390393872,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390393872,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12390393872?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Citadelle_Laferri%C3%A8re_Aerial_View.jpg"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>SPC Gibran Torres</em></span></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <strong><em>Haiti</em></strong>, really? You´re no doubt wondering. Well, yes, the Americas´ most impoverished country has been an abject basket case for many years, and its current tragic vicissitudes with violence and instability approaching near collapse make it seem unlikely to recover any time soon. But here´s a reminder of what a fundamentally beautiful country this is, how rich is its history, how vibrant its culture, and how friendly its people – as I can attest when I visited way back in 26 years ago. This, then, is the best of what Haiti has to offer:<br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://visithaiti.com/destinations/citadelle-laferriere/" target="_blank">Laferrière Citadel</a></strong></span></p>
<p>Located up north just 17 miles (27 kilometers) from the city of <strong>Cap-Haïtien</strong>, the country´s most iconic landmark is a massive stone fortress – the largest in the Americas, in fact – rising 130 feet (39 meters) atop <strong>Bonnet à l’Evèque</strong> mountain, which is itself 3,000 ft. (914m) above sea level. Commissioned by <strong>Henri Christophe</strong>, a key leader of the revolution which won Haiti´s independence in 1804 and who later created a kingdom in the north (1811-1820), it was completed in the last year of his reign before he committed suicide to avoid being overthrown or assassinated. Its ramparts, barracks, courtyards, panoramic views, and other features are accessible to visitors who brave the seven-mile, uphill approach – first by 4x4, then on foot or horseback. It´s also part of Hait´s single <a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/180/"><strong>UNESCO World Heritage Site</strong></a>, together with the nearby <strong>Sans Souci</strong> <strong>Palace</strong> (see below) and a residential complex called <strong>Ramiers</strong>.</p>
<p> <br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12390394690,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390394690,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12390394690?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Palais_du_sans-soucis.JPG">Iconem</a></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://visithaiti.com/history-heritage/sans-souci-palace/" target="_blank">Sans-Souci Palace</a></strong></span></p>
<p>Built at the base of the mountain on which the Citadelle Laferrière perches, in the same period and for the same Henri Christophe, the opulent pile once known as the Versailles of the Caribbean was devastated by an earthquake in 1842 and never rebuilt. Also a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the Citadelle, what’s left to see today is a shell – but an evocative one.</p>
<p> <br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12390395057,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390395057,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12390395057?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/rooseveltskerrit/30272909115">Roosevelt Skerritt</a></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><br /> <a href="https://visithaiti.com/destinations/port-au-prince-city-guide/" target="_blank">Port-au-Prince</a></strong></span> <br /> <br /> Despite its dilapidation, earthquake damage, and high crime rate (especially petty crime like pickpocketing), I´m told the capital (pop. 1.2 million) is doable and even reasonably safe if you take common-sense precautions. Highlights include the <strong>Iron Market</strong>, one of those colorful Caribbean covered marketplace with all sorts of stalls produce, spices, and handicrafts, and the <strong>Champ de Mars</strong>, a big public park which besides its trees and other greenery is notable for its statues of Haitian historical figures as well as performers and street food and handicraft vendors. There´s a big open space where the once grandiose neoclassical National Palace, home to the country´s president, once stood before it was so damaged in the 2010 earthquake that it had to be torn down (plans are afoot to build a faithful though modernized recreation in the coming years). And fronting the park is perhaps Port-au-Prince´s single most compelling attraction: the <strong><a href="https://visithaiti.com/things-to-do/museum-haitian-national-pantheon/">Musée Du Panthéon National Haïtien</a></strong> (above), a museum (built partly underground, by the way, which saved it from the 2010 quake) with an impressive collection of Haitian art and artifacts dating back to the pre-settlement Taíno people and ranging up to recent history, with a good bit devoted to the slave revolution, and the country's struggle to become the first European colony to gain independence, in 1804. <br /> <br /> <br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12390395078,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390395078,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12390395078?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://wikitravel.org/en/File:Cap-Haitien_banner.jpg" target="_blank">Wikitravel</a></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://visithaiti.com/destinations/cap-haitien-city-guide/" target="_blank"><br /> Cap-Haïtien</a></strong></span><br /> <br /> The streets of the country´s second-largest city, on its north coast, are lined with colonial houses – including a good deal of “gingerbread” architecture – testament to a history stretching back to 1711, when it was founded as the capital of the French colony of Saint Domingue until it was moved to Port-au-Prince 59 years laters. Cap also served as the capital of the Kingdom of Haiti, which lasted from independence in 1804 until 1820. These days it has a population of around 190,000, and apart from historic sites and monuments such as <strong>Place d´Armes</strong> square and the 354-year-old <strong>Our Lady of the Assumption</strong> cathedral, with its iconic tiled dome, nearby hills and beaches (such as <strong>Cormier</strong> and <strong>Labadie</strong>, the famous enclave used by cruise ships) are popular as a getaway for more well-heeled Haitians. The city also makes a good base for day trips to La Ferrière Citadel and Sans Souci. And though there´s poverty here as elsewhere in the country, the city and region have been able to keep themselves apart from the higher crime and instability in the country´s south.</p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12390395685,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390395685,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12390395685?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:JacmelView.jpg" target="_blank">Doron</a></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Jacmel</strong></span></p>
<p>On the south coast a bit over an hour southwest of capital <strong>Port-au-Prince</strong>, this city of 40,000 was founded by the Spanish in 1504, with the French moving in 194 years later. Its old quarter is renowned for its cobblestone streets and French colonial architecture – particularly the charming “gingerbread”-style houses of the early 19th century (it´s on <strong>UNESCO</strong>´s tentative <strong>World Heritage Site</strong> list), and Jacmel´s larer claim to fame is as Haiti´s cultural/artistic capital. It´s also known for its annual Carnaval (with dates in February and/or March, depending on the year).</p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12390396872,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390396872,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12390396872?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/hopeart/8748687184/" target="_blank">HOPE Art</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Bassin Bleu</strong></span></p>
<p>Up in the mountains several miles outside Jacmel, this trio of stunning, azure-blue pools is tucked amidst lush vegetation. Reached via a 20-minute hike through the forest, it´s a fantastic spot for a bit of refreshing swimming.<br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12390410294,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390410294,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12390410294?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/48858041@N05/12835794003/"><span style="font-size:8pt;">Mari-Chantalle</span><br /> </a></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Île-à-Vache/Lilavach</strong></span></p>
<p>Off the southern coast, “<strong>Cow Island</strong>,” eight miles long by two miles wide and with a population of around 14,000, is known for its stunning beaches, unspoiled natural beauty, and tranquility – although the government has been trying to expand tourist development beyond the three existing resort hotels, <strong>Abaka Bay</strong>, and<strong> Port Morgan</strong> – and provoking some backlash from locals. In any case, it´s great for swimming, snorkeling, diving, hiking, and exploring villages.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12390410879,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390410879,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12390410879?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="https://visithaiti.com/destinations/most-beautiful-destinations-in-haiti/" target="_blank">Visit Haiti</a></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><br /> Grotte Marie Jeanne</strong></span></p>
<p>Also out on the southern coast, four hours from Port-au-Prince outside the town of <strong>Port-a-Piment</strong>, one of Haiti´s largest cave systems – some some 56 chambers on three levels stretching nearly 3⅓ mi. (5.3km) – is home to impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and Taíno pictographs. It´s truly one of the Caribbean´s unsung eco treasures!</p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12390411689,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390411689,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12390411689?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Haiti_Saut-d%27Eau.JPG">Jstplace</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Saut-d’Eau Waterfall</strong></span></p>
<p>A charming cascade in the country´s central region, 60 miles north of Port-au-Prince, it´s a pilgrimage site for both Catholics and practitioners of Vodou (see below), who come to bathe in its waters, believed to have healing properties, and petition the <strong>Virgin Mary</strong> and her Vodou counterpart, <strong>Erzulie Danto</strong>. The highlight of the year is the <a href="https://visithaiti.com/festivals-events/pilgrimage-to-saut-deau/">three-day religious festival</a> that takes place July 13-16. And no matter the time of year, Saut-d´Eau and the beautiful area surrounding it provide a serene and spiritual atmosphere, along with the natural beauty of the cascading waters.</p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12390412698,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390412698,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12390412698?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Labadee,_Haiti_%2851233191419%29.jpg" target="_blank">Just a Brazilian man</a></em></span></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://visithaiti.com/beaches-islands/best-beaches-haiti/"><span style="font-size:14pt;">Beauteous Beaches</span></a></strong></p>
<p>This country boasts strands that are equal in appeal to many of the Caribbean’s finest, with some notables including stretches along the 12-mi. (19km) <strong>Côtes des Arcadins</strong>, along the north coast of <strong>Port-au-Prince Bay</strong>, and site of a number of resorts (including the Haiti´s most notable, the <strong><a href="https://www.decameron.com/en/otr-destinations/haiti/arcadins-coast/royal-decameron-indigo-beach-resort-spa">Royal Decameron Indigo Beach</a></strong>); <strong>Abaka Bay</strong> on Île-des-Vaches (see above; this beach once made CNN´s list of the world´s best); 1¼ -mi. (2km) <strong>Point Sable</strong> on the south coast (three hours from Port-au-Prince and fairly close to Grotte Marie Jeanne); <strong>Raymond les Bains</strong>, not far from Jacmel, and of course the aforementioned Labadee near Cap-Haitien (above).. <br /> <br /> <br /> <em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12390413897,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390413897,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12390413897?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:JacmelVodou.jpg"><span style="font-size:8pt;">Doron</span></a></em></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><br /> Vodou for You, Too</strong></span><br /> <br /> Never mind the simplistic, sensationalized stories of zombies, this hybrid of the West and Central African religions of the slaves brought here beginning in the 15th century and the Roman Catholicism of the French colonizers is a complex, fascinating, and largely benevolent faith. It includes a pantheon of <em>iwas</em> (gods with Catholic-saint counterparts, such as Papa Legba, associated with St. Peter) and practices featuring singing, drumming, dancing, spirit possession, and animal sacrifice. And of course the most sensationalized aspect is its zombis - which of course have been turned into a major pop-culture phenomenon but seem to be much less of a big deal in Haiti itself. Another interesting thing about voudon is its welcoming of women and homosexuals on an equal basis with heterosexual men. Visit Haiti provides <a href="https://visithaiti.com/things-to-do/how-to-attend-a-vodou-ceremony-in-haiti/">a more detailed intro</a>, and in order to attend ceremonies you can ask your guides and staffers at hotels and guesthouses for suggestions. I vividly remember attending one near the city of <strong>Saint-Marc</strong> as an excursion offered by the local Club Med, about which I´d been sent by my magazine to write (and which is now the Royal Decameron Indigo Beach); it was a mesmerizing experience – chicken sacrifice and all. Some of these are oriented more toward tourists (though the one I witnessed seemed pretty darn raw), but you can also seek out the more “authentic” real deal with a little asking around (one good example is the visit run by the Cap-Haïtien school/hostelry <strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/troupe.despoupons">École Les Poupon</a></strong>).</p>
<p><br /> <br /> <br /> For more information, check out <strong><a href="https://visithaiti.com/">VisitHaiti.com</a></strong>.</p>
<p> </p></div>6 Highlights of French St. Martinhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/st-saint-martin-french-caribbean-antilles2024-03-03T18:10:00.000Z2024-03-03T18:10:00.000ZHelen Brownhttps://tripatini.com/members/HelenBrown<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12239387653,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12239387653,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12239387653?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/pasa/16083239157/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;">Paul Sableman</span></a></p><p><br />
The northern part of the island shared with Dutch <strong>Sint Maarten</strong> was colonized by the French in the early 17th century, and today <strong>Saint-Martin</strong> (population just over 39,000) is a “collectivity” of <strong>France</strong>, an overseas territory with considerable autonomy. This side of the island is known for its French influence, gastronomic delights, and beautiful beaches.</p><p> </p><p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KGkEjj3KbgU?si=qwld9wkfXBBF0tV1" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Marigot</strong></span><br />
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The capital of French St. Martin (pop. 5,700, above and top) is a laid-back blend of French and Caribbean culture filled with French boutiques, bakeries, restaurants, and colorful street markets offering local crafts, fresh produce, and spices. The Marina Port La Royale also has boutiques, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere. On the history side, check out the <strong>Musée de Saint-Martin</strong>, which traces the island’s past back to the pre-Columbian Arawaks, and 234-year-old <strong>Fort Louis</strong>, up on a hill overlooking it all.</p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12239391299,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12239391299,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12239391299?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/pasa/15637168824" target="_blank">Paul Sableman</a></em></span></p><p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/pasa/15637168824"><br />
</a><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Grand Case</strong></span><br />
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Known as the "Culinary Capital of the Caribbean," this picturesque village on the northwest coast 20-minute drive from Marigot has a beachfront lined with top-notch eateries ranging from upscale restaurants to local <em>lolos</em> (little barbecue joints). <strong>Grand Case Beach</strong> is also a sweet spot on which to spend the day sunning, swimming, and water sports; a bit farther on, the Petite<strong> Plage</strong> has a more intimate, castaway feel. And if you´re here January through March, don´t miss <strong>Grand Case Tuesdays</strong>, featuring concerts, parades, and crafts stalls.</p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12239395287,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12239395287,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12239395287?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Anse_Marcel,_SXM_island_in_the_Caribbean.JPG" target="_blank">Clavius66</a></em></span></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:14pt;">Ah, those Beaches – <em>Très Belles</em>!</span><br />
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</strong>Speaking of <em>plages</em>, the French side boasts more than two dozen gems, with the best/most popular including<strong> Baie Orientale (Orient Bay)</strong> on the northeast coast just ten minutes from Marigot, dubbed the "Saint Tropez of the Caribbean" and known for its white sands and vibrant water sports scene (not to mention its nude section on the southern end); you'll also find plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops.</p><p><strong>Anse Marcel</strong> (above), by contrast – located up in the northwest a 15-minute hop from Marigot – sits astride serene, beautiful, and secluded cove perfect for relaxation; It´s also home to a marina and a <a href="https://www.ledomaineansemarcelbeach.com/">luxurious resort named after the beach</a>.<br />
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And on another sheltered bay,<strong> Plage Le Galion </strong>makes a wonderful choice both for families and windsurfers/kitesurfers.</p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12239398095,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12239398095,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12239398095?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.st-martin.org/us/for-a-truly-friendly-experience/explore-saint-martin-nature-reserve/" target="_blank">St-Martin.org</a></em></span><br />
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<strong><a href="https://www.st-martin.org/us/learn-more/must-sees/hiking-to-paradise/"><span style="font-size:14pt;">Excellent Eco-Adventure</span></a></strong></p><p><strong>Pic Paradis (Paradise Peak) </strong>is the island’s highest point at 1,391 feet; just ten minutes inland from Marigot; and offers hiking trails as well as breathtaking panoramic views from a pair of observation decks you can hike or drive to. At the foot of the peak, <strong><a href="https://loteriefarm.com/">Loterie Farm</a></strong> is a 133-acre private reserve where you can hike, go ziplining, relax by the pool, and enjoy a tasty bite and/or cocktail. And the <strong><a href="https://www.st-martin.org/us/for-a-truly-friendly-experience/explore-saint-martin-nature-reserve/">St. Martin Nature Reserve</a></strong> covers nearly a dozen square miles of the island´s northeast, including forests, wetlands, and a fascinating marine ecosystem off its nearly seven miles of coastline which is great for diving, snorkeling, and spotting bottlenose dolphins and humpback whales.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/27718315@N02/15594192489" target="_blank"><br />
</a><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12239415095,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12239415095,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12239415095?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/27718315@N02/15594192489" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;">alljengi</span></a></p><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><br />
Alluring Offshore Islets</strong></span><br />
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Just 250 acres and a quick boat ride off the northeast coast,<strong> <a href="https://www.st-martin.org/us/activity/tintamarre/">Tintamarre</a></strong> is uninhabited and a popular spot for day trips thanks to its secluded beaches, great snorkeling, and seasonanal opportunities to spot giant marine turtles nesting and hatching. Also off this coast but even tinier and closer, <strong><a href="https://www.st-martin.org/us/learn-more/must-sees/saint-martins-pinel-island/">Ilet Pinel</a> </strong>(above) is accessible via a five/minute ferry ride (or you can even kayak out!) from the village of <strong>Cul-de-Sac</strong>. It's perfect for snorkeling, sunbathing, and dining at the beachside restaurants.<br />
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<em><a href="https://www.belmond.com/hotels/north-america/caribbean/st-martin/belmond-la-samanna/gallery" target="_blank"><br />
</a><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12239416457,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12239416457,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12239416457?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="https://www.belmond.com/hotels/north-america/caribbean/st-martin/belmond-la-samanna/gallery" target="_blank">Belmond La Samanna</a></span></em><br />
</p><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>The Legendary La Samanna</strong></span> <br />
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Located just ten minutes from Marigot out on the Terres Basses peninsula, full of million-dollar residences, <a href="https://www.belmond.com/hotels/north-america/caribbean/st-martin/belmond-la-samanna/">one of the Caribbean´s most -renowned luxury resorts</a> is <em>parfait</em> for those looking to splurge on a high-end Caribbean experience. It has 83 rooms and suites: eight three- and four-bedroom villas; two gourmet restaurants; two outdoor pools; a spa; a tennis court; and various other top-notch facilities.<br />
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Get additional info on all this and much more at <strong><a href="https://www.st-martin.org/us/" target="_blank">St-Martin.org</a>.</strong>.</p><p> </p><p> </p></div>A Margaritaville State of Mind in the Dominican Republichttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/margaritaville-cap-cana-punta-cana-dominican-republic2024-02-02T17:50:00.000Z2024-02-02T17:50:00.000ZLinda Cooperhttps://tripatini.com/members/LindaCooper764<div><p><span style="font-size:10pt;"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-size:10pt;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}10783328853,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}10783328853,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="10783328853?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-size:10pt;">Set along a stretch of pure white-sand beach in <strong>Cap Cana</strong>, an exclusive enclave of the <strong>DR</strong>´s most popular resort area <strong>Punta Cana</strong> - and just 15 minutes from the Punta Cana International Airport - five-star all-inclusive property <strong><a href="https://www.karismahotels.com/margaritaville-island-reserve-resorts/margaritaville-island-reserve-cap-cana" target="_blank">Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana</a></strong><strong>.</strong>, which opened a little over three years ago is one of just eight Cap Cana resorts. On our visit, my husband and I found its </span><span style="font-size:10pt;">“no worries,” tropical vibe spoke to me the moment we pulled up to the hotel entrance adorned with a fun and whimsical giant flip flop. </span><span style="font-size:10pt;">Welcomed by several enthusiastic “Island Ambassadors” with an animated “FINS UP!” reception, our vacation had officially begun as we were offered margarita popsicles, the resort´s traditional welcome treat for guests.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:10pt;">With 228 suites - including "swim-up" suites and 40 villas with private plunge pools / a wide range of food and beverage venues, a spectacular spa and more, this Margaritaville is a sun-seeker’s dream come true, offering a playful escape with a laid-back tropical vibe.</span></p>
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<p><span style="font-size:10pt;"><a href="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Swim-Up-Honeymoon-Beach-Front-Suite.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Swim-Up-Honeymoon-Beach-Front-Suite.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Swim-Up-Honeymoon-Beach-Front-Suite.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Swim-Up-Honeymoon-Beach-Front-Suite-300x169.jpg">luxebeatmag.com</a> </span><br /> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /> Opened in November 2021 in partnership with <a href="https://www.karismahotels.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Karisma Hotels & Resorts</strong></a>, Margaritaville’s signature easy-going vibe to relax and unwind in paradise is inspired by the lyrics and lifestyle of the late singer, songwriter and bestselling author <strong>Jimmy Buffett</strong>. Fans of the musician can keep their eyes out for song lyrics all over the place. </span></p>
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<p><span style="font-size:10pt;"><a href="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Swim-Up-Honeymoon-Beach-Front-Suite2.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Swim-Up-Honeymoon-Beach-Front-Suite2.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Swim-Up-Honeymoon-Beach-Front-Suite2.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></span><span style="font-size:10pt;"><a href="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Swim-Up-Honeymoon-Beach-Front-Suite2-300x199.jpg"><span style="font-size:8pt;">luxebeatmag.com</span></a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /> As our butler<strong> Eramy</strong> led us through the property to our fabulous <a href="https://www.karismahotels.com/margaritaville-island-reserve-resorts/margaritaville-island-reserve-cap-cana/accomodations/swim-up-suites" target="_blank">swim-ip honeymoon beachfront suite</a>, I couldn’t help but notice the "good-vibes" energy emanating all around us - not to mention how gorgeous and well maintained the grounds are. And o</span><span style="font-size:10pt;">ur suite was the perfect blend of laid-back luxury - n</span><span style="font-size:10pt;">autical in design, with a spacious living area, spa-like bathroom features and a king-size bed back by a wall mural granting us a “license to chill.”. </span><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /> <br /> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:10pt;"><a href="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Karisma-REsorts-pool.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Karisma-REsorts-pool.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Karisma-REsorts-pool.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Karisma-REsorts-pool-300x243.jpg" target="_blank">LuxebeatMag.com</a> </span><br /> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /> Hands down my favorite aspect of our casual luxe digs was the direct, swim-up pool access with a private deck and breathtaking ocean views. I woke up every day enjoying my morning coffee while dipping my toes in the pool, reveling in a sense of elevated escapism. Another thoughtful resort touch comes by way of <strong>Joe Merchant’s Coffee & Provisions</strong>, where in addition to grabbing a freshly brewed cup of Dominican java guests can personalize their in-room minibar selections; each guestroom is allotted a certain number of “points” that can be used to stock up their room with soft drinks, flavored sparkling water, beers, wines, local chocolate bars, and delicacies.<br /> </span></p>
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<p><span style="font-size:10pt;"><a href="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Karisma-Resorts2.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Karisma-Resorts2.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Karisma-Resorts2.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Karisma-Resorts2-300x230.jpg" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;">Luxebeatmag.com</span></a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /> At the heart of the resort is the <a href="https://www.karismahotels.com/margaritaville-island-reserve-resorts/margaritaville-island-reserve-cap-cana/dining-drinks" target="_blank"><strong>Gourmet Village</strong></a>, which also serves as its entertainment hub, with nightly performances to compliment the vibrant seaside setting. Guests can dine at their pick of six restaurants, and each concept has a story inspired by Jimmy Buffett’s lyrics. The wide range of dining options includes an all-day buffet; <strong>Rum Runners</strong>, which offers delicious Caribbean cuisine; <strong>Mon So Wi</strong>, where the menu takes its cues from the Asian street food scenes; <strong>Frank & Lola’s Trattoria</strong>; the <strong>Landshark Brewery and Grill</strong> (which actually brews beer on property); and the <strong>JWB Steakhouse</strong>. All the restaurant menus, daily activities schedule, entertainment line-up and so much more is available on the resort app, which I downloaded immediately as my direct link to all the Margaritaville Island Reserve happenings.<br /> <br /> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Karisma-Resorts-indoor-pool.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Karisma-Resorts-indoor-pool.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Karisma-Resorts-indoor-pool.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Karisma-Resorts-indoor-pool-300x248.jpg">Luxebeatmag.com</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:10pt;"><br /> Wellness-minded travelers will appreciate the resort’s<strong> </strong><a href="https://www.karismahotels.com/margaritaville-island-reserve-resorts/margaritaville-island-reserve-cap-cana/experiences/spa" target="_blank"><strong>St. Somewhere Spa</strong></a>, where healing and holistic treatments begin with a fabulous hydrotherapy circuit “guided water experience” designed to soothe, comfort, and ease away stress. I have experienced dozens of spas over the years, the St. Somewhere Spa makes my top three spa list - which says a lot! The service began as we were guided through a sauna, then eucalyptus steam room, a red-light therapy shower, followed by a series of incredible sensory pools, Jacuzzi’s and thermal loungers, before enjoying a deep tissue couples massage and finishing up with a pot of tea and a cozy blanket in the relaxation room. PURE HEAVEN….<br /> <br /> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:10pt;"><a href="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Karisma-Resorts-heart.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Karisma-Resorts-heart.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Karisma-Resorts-heart.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Karisma-Resorts-heart-225x300.jpg">Luxebeatmag.com</a></span></span></p>
<p><br /> Finally, I loved the d<span style="font-size:10pt;">aily water aerobics classes at noon, as well as some epic afternoon pool parties.</span> But if <span style="font-size:10pt;">you were to ask me what my “most memorable” experience was at Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana, it would have to be the last night of our vacation, where my husband and I experienced the ultimate date night—a romantic candlelit dinner for two on the beach. Part of the “specials” offered at the resort for an additional cost, it was an unforgettable evening and the perfect way to end our ultimate carefree island escape. ..<br /> </span></p>
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<h3><span style="font-size:10pt;"><a href="https://luxebeatmag.com/how-to-eat-and-drink-like-a-local-in-victoria-bc/" target="_blank"><img class="align-left" src="https://luxebeatmag.com/wp-content/wphb-cache/gravatar/b5a/b5ad7f4c6283de71b528f66b85c8d83ax170.jpg?profile=RESIZE_180x180" alt="b5ad7f4c6283de71b528f66b85c8d83ax170.jpg?profile=RESIZE_180x180" width="100" /></a></span><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="https://luxebeatmag.com/author/linda-cooper/" target="_blank">Linda Cooper</a> is an award-winning TV host, producer and writer serving as a brand ambassador to worldwide travel on her national luxury lifestyle series Travel Time with Linda and as a contributor to several lifestyle and travel publications. Her specialties include television and in lifestyle publications include the travel; lifestyle; luxury; tourism; hotels; restaurants; food/wine; fitness; spas; and retail shopping industries. Season One of Travel Time with Linda aired nationally on AXS TV Network, winning a 2018 Telly Award, and is available on Amazon Prime Video, as is Season Two, featuring “Bucket-List Destinations.”.</em></span></h3>
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<p><span style="font-size:10pt;"> </span></p></div>Martinique, C´est Magnifique!https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/martinique-attractions-tourism-travel2024-01-27T16:03:41.000Z2024-01-27T16:03:41.000ZDavid Paul Appellhttps://tripatini.com/members/DavidPaulAppell16<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12366990483,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12366990483,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12366990483?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/davidstanleytravel/47284293751" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>David Stanley</em></span></a></p>
<p><br /> One of the four islands of the <strong><em>Antilles Françaises</em></strong>, with around 370,000 inhabitants, <strong>Martinique</strong> was settled by the French beginning in 1635 and today is an overseas <em>département</em> (meaning an integral part) of <strong>France</strong>. It’s packed with a vibrant blend of French and West Indian cultures; stunning landscapes, nature, and beaches; rich historical sites; fantastic rum; and a chill, laid back vibe. I visited here around 15 years ago and still remember it fondly and fairly vividly. Here´s a quick rundown of some of the highlights of “the isle of coming back,” also affectionately dubbed <strong>Madinina</strong>:<br /><br /></p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12366991264,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12366991264,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12366991264?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Fort_Saint-Louis_vu_du_Car%C3%A9nage_02.jpg" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;">UHF</span><br /> </a><br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"> <strong>Fort-de-France</strong></span></p>
<p>Roughly midway along the west coast and with a population of a bit over 75,000, Martinique´s low-key capital is named after the fort first built here in 1638, and it´s known for its colorful markets; colonial architecture (especially check out the handsome <strong>Schœlcher Library</strong>, built in Paris in 1887 and shipped here in sections); vibrant street and cultural life; and several key historical sites. These include <strong>Saint-Louis Cathedral</strong> (the current neo-Romanesque version replacing its 17th-century predecessor in 1895), and <strong>Fort Saint-Louis</strong> (above), built in 1669 to replace a previous fort; while there's not much to see here in terms of furnishings or displays, just walking through a massive colonial fortress in the Caribbean is a hugely atmospheric experience. Also don´t miss a pair of interesting museums. Housed in an upper-class 19th-century manse, the <strong>Musée Régionale de l´Histoire et d´Ethnografie</strong> is all about the cultural and daily life of the island, while the <strong>Musée Departmentale</strong>, in a former military commissariat building, goes back 4,000 years into the island´s pre-Columbian past. Along the way, make a stop for colorful photo ops and handicrafts at the <strong>Lafcadio Hearn Market</strong> and the <strong>Grand Marché Couvert</strong>.</p>
<p>And of course there´s great French Creole eating all over town, from humble street stalls to elegant, white-tablecloth restaurants; besides fantastic seafood, specialties to look out for include <em>accras de moure</em> (cod fritters), <em>colombo</em> (a chicken or lamb curry dish courtesy of Indian immigrants), <em>lambis</em> (conch stew), and <em>blanc manger au coco</em>, a sweet paste of honey, coconut milk, and vanilla powder.</p>
<p>Finally, near town, a couple of other places worth a visit are the 44-year-old, TK acre (TK-hectare) <strong><a href="https://www.jardindebalata.fr/welcome">Balata Garden</a></strong>, with some 3,000 tropical plants and a treetop walkway with cool views and the nearby <strong>Sacré-Coeur Church</strong>, the mini “<strong>Montmartre</strong> of Martinique” constructed between 1875 and 1905 to resemble its Paris namesake.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Les_Trois-%C3%8Elets,_Martinique_2019-11-04.jpg" target="_blank"><br /> </a><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12366996273,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12366996273,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12366996273?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Les_Trois-%C3%8Elets,_Martinique_2019-11-04.jpg" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;">Alexey Komarov</span><br /> </a></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Les Trois-Îlets</strong></span> <br /> <br /> There are some 20 towns outside Fort-de-France, with honorable mention for appealing going to <strong>Les Anses d´Arlet</strong> (pop. around 3,800) in the southwest, famed for its iconic waterfront view (top) – and “Three Islets” (known as <strong>Twazilé</strong> in Creole), is definitely one not to miss. In fact, it´s Martinique´s top resort town, and arguably more popular than the capital just across the bay. Less than a than a half hour´s drive away and just 20 minutes by ferry, this charmer of around 7,500 is packed with – besides its characteristic brick-and-clapboard houses – a wide choice of restaurants, nightspots, shops, and all manner of hotels, resorts, inns, and guesthouses. <br /> <br /> Check out the colorful public market, as well as a number of worthwhile historical/cultural landmarks, including the <strong>Church of Notre-Dame de la Bonne Déliverance</strong> (started in 1724 and not finished till 1955!) and most especially <strong><a href="https://museedelapagerie.business.site/">La Pagerie</a></strong>, a modest cottage-turned museum on the outskirts of town which was the birthplace in 1763 of a certain <strong>Marie Joseph Rose Tascher de la Pagerie</strong>, who shacked up with some dude named <strong>Napoleon Bonaparte</strong> and became France´s Empress Josephine. (I still remember visiting and being interviewed here by a local TV channel on the subject of tourism because I spoke some French.) There´s also a trio of interesting museums, devoted to sugarcane, coffee and cocoa, and seashells.<br /> <br /> Also on the outskirts you´ll find <strong><a href="https://www.poterie-village.fr/home-en">La Poterie</a></strong>, a pottery village and brickworks in operation since the 1783, where visitors can see it all being crafted and of course shop for mementos – both pottery and other arts and crafts. Also not far from town, <strong><a href="https://www.lasavanedesesclaves.fr/">La Savane des Esclaves</a></strong> is a privately owned 12-acre (4.85ha) outdoor museum showcasing the island´s terrible history of slavery as well as its pre-Columbia peoples, including exhibits and reconstructed huts. <br /> <br /> (And by the way, if you love to golf, check out the fantastic seaside 18-holer here. Also, in case you were wondering, the titular three islets are <strong>Charles</strong>, <strong>Sixtain</strong>, and <strong>Thebloux</strong> out in the bay.)<br /> <br /> <br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12366998267,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12366998267,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12366998267?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>David Paul Appell</em></span><br /> <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>St. Pierre and Mount Pelée</strong></span><br /> <br /> Just over a half hour up the coast from Fort-de-France, the onetime "Paris of the Caribbean" was buried by the 1902 eruption of nearby Pelée, the island´s highest peak at 4,583 feet (1,397 meters). And while a new town grew up nearby, visitors can explore the ruins of the old city, including a jail cell which protected of the eruption´s three survivors, and learn more at the <strong>Musée Volcanique</strong>. These days the volcano is calm (though still classified as “active” – and is closely monitored); in fact it´s a popular spot for hiking and its spectacular panoramic views over island and sea, and <a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1657/" target="_blank">its rainforested slopes and surrounding valleys were just last fall added to the list of <strong>UNESCO World Heritage Sites</strong></a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12367001256,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12367001256,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12367001256?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.istockphoto.com/es/foto/grand-anse-des-salines-isla-de-martinica-francia-gm1339425279-419770093?phrase=anse+salines+martinique"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>Eduardo Cabanas</em></span></a></p>
<p><strong><em><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;">Très Beaux</span></em></strong><strong><span style="font-size:14pt;"> Beaches</span><br /> <br /> </strong><a href="https://www.martinique.org/en/things-to-do/nature-environment/beaches">There are three dozen</a>, so obviously I can´t cover them all, but here are just three of the top picks:</p>
<p><strong>Grande Anse les Salines</strong>, considered one of the Caribbean´s loveliest, is near the island´s southwestern tip, a 45-minute ferry ride from Fort-de-France. It´s famous for its mile and a quarter (two kilometers) of golden sands and calm, crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.</p>
<p><strong>Anse Céron</strong>, up north near the town of <strong>Le Prêcheur</strong>, is serene and less crowded, known for its black sands (a relative rarity on Martinique), lush, forested backdrop, and seabed great for snorkeling.<br /> <br /> <strong>Anse Noire</strong> down south also boasts black sands, as its name indicates, and it´s set on a peaceful little cove surrounded by swaying coconut palms and towering cliffs (which locals and some visitors jump off!). Besides luxuriating in the tranquil waters, rent a kayak and go snorkeling (giant marine turtles like to hang out around here).<br /> <br /> <br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12367002260,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12367002260,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12367002260?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.martinique.org/en/about/culture/rum"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>Martinique.org</em></span></a></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-size:14pt;">Rum Deals</span> </strong></p>
<p>Martinique is also known for its <em>rhum agricole</em> (accounting about 80 percent of its production of <a href="https://www.martinique.org/en/about/culture/rum">rum</a>), made directly from sugarcane juice. You can enjoy tours, tastings and a look at rum paraphernalia/lore at three of the island´s top distilleries, <strong><a href="https://www.rhum-clement.com/en/home-2/">Habitation Clément</a></strong>, <strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/distillerie.lafavorite/">La Favorite</a></strong> (one of the oldest on the island, dating back to 1842 and still operating partly via steam engines), and <strong><a href="https://www.rhum-jm.com/en/">Distillerie J.M</a></strong>.<br /> <br /> <br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12367002279,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12367002279,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12367002279?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/pom-angers/51858075465">Pom´</a></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Diamond Rock</strong></span></p>
<p>A small islet rising 574 feet (175m) out of the sea off that south coast, rife with sea birds, the land part of <strong>Le Rocher du Diamant</strong> is off limits to visitors, but it does present a magical spectacle, especially at sunset, and the surrounding waters are a favorite of snorkelers and divers for their rich marine life. Plus on a cliff across from the island, at <strong>Anse Caffard</strong> beach, the <strong>Cap 110 Memorial</strong> consists of 15 impressive white stone statues facing the sea in homage to slaves who lost their lives in a shipwreck.</p>
<p><br /> Interested in more details and other island activities/destinations? Check out <a href="https://www.martinique.org/en">Martinique.org.</a></p></div>Barbados as the Rum Capital of the Caribbeanhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/barbados-rum2024-01-24T00:50:44.000Z2024-01-24T00:50:44.000ZFyllis Hockmanhttps://tripatini.com/members/FyllisHockman<div><p>Most travelers know that the Caribbean islands are well-versed in rum, but Barbados goes one better because this is where rum was discovered. A tavern owner in Bridgetown one day, early-17th century, was searching for an empty shipping barrel when he inadvertently stumbled across one filled with a concoction worth selling -- a barrel of sugar cane fermented over time.</p>
<p>Well, Mr. Rumball -- the tavern owner -- knew a good thing when he tasted it and soon the Caribbean's signature beverage was being served and sold all over the island -- and very quickly well-beyond. Presumably asking for a "tot" of Rumball's elixir was too cumbersome and the name was shortened to rum. The drink's popularity was so pervasive that the King of England decreed that the Royal Navy should partake on a daily basis and George Washington insisted that a barrel be available at his 1789 inauguration.</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12365532675,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12365532675,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12365532675?profile=RESIZE_584x" width="455" height="555" /></a></p>
<p><em>The corner at which Rumball’s Tavern first discovered rum in the Caribbean. Photo by Victor Block</em></p>
<p>So it seemed only natural that I headed to the world's oldest distillery for a tasting -- Mount Gay, founded in 1703. I've recently come from the Scottish Highlands where I sampled some of their famous scotch whiskys. Now being anything but a whisky connoisseur, I couldn't tell any difference among the several "drams." After multiple tries, I slinked out of the distillery. But I like rum. I drink rum. I know rum?</p>
<p>The distillery tour started with a welcome rum punch. Doesn't count for anything in my book. We had to go through a two-hour introduction to the whole history of rum and the very intricate process of making it to finally earn the right to actually taste some.</p>
<p>Some of it, thanks to our energetic guide, Romal -- the sound of whose very name reflects his occupation -- was actually interesting. From its first inception, recipes were never written down, put passed from blender to apprentice. Each blender takes what exists and builds upon it so that the results are more than just another version of the same rum -- but also a whole new experience.</p>
<p>THE WORLD IS INDEBTED TO BARBADOS FOR ITS DISCOVERY OF RUM</p>
<p>Most of the information is proprietary to Mount Gay and, as we were told, the process emphasizes quality over quantity, meaning nothing is rushed. Their motto: It's ready when it's ready! I figured somewhere there's a little old grandmother in charge.</p>
<p>But finally, we got to the tasting. Romal instructed us how to hold the glass, to twist it to reveal "legs," to smell it. One rum, ages 3 to 7 years, was "robust and bold." The second, older, was "more complex with a more definitive 'mouth feel.'" That was the tasting. Not much to go on. At least my quasi-sophisticated familiarity with rum (after all, I had been in Barbados for almost two weeks) told me the second rum was smoother than the first. Did I taste the hints of salted caramel, cinnamon and fruitcake? Not a chance! More slinking…</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12365532893,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12365532893,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12365532893?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="710" /></a></p>
<p><em>A rum tasting at Mount Gay Distillery. Photo by Victor Block</em></p>
<p>However, after even a moderate imbibing of the smooth golden liquid, sustenance is required. And in keeping with Barbadian tradition, a food tour exploring typical Bajan specialties is called for. First stop was -- well not food. Before, and during, our ingesting of island edibles (in this day and age, is it necessary to emphasize that, in this context, that refers to actual food?), 400 years of Bridgetown history must also be digested. The conquest by the British, the thriving slave trade along the Careenage, the UNESCO World Heritage site House of Parliament, the oldest Synagogue in the Americas and, of course, Roebeck Street where Mr. Rumball first transformed the world's devotion to rum. But let's get to the important stuff: Black Cake.</p>
<p>Paulette, our guide, led us on an enthusiastic journey, warning us that upon completion, they may have to roll us back to the bus. With an emphasis on spices, seasonings and sugar, we stopped first at "Crumbz," because, according to Paulette, after eating Bajan food, that's all that's left. After a minced beef roll, coconut bread and the Caribbean's famous rum Christmas specialty, Black Cake, about which a NY Times bestselling book has recently been written. I could have gone home sufficiently satiated.</p>
<p>Next onto a "hole in the wall" restaurant, the kind locals frequent, for chicken, macaroni pie, and casava. It was a full meal masquerading as a mid-day snack. Observed Paulette: "We need to have such a heavy diet to weather all the rum that's drunk."</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12365533471,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12365533471,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12365533471?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="466" height="385" /></a></p>
<p><em>A restaurant mini-meal as part of a walking food tour through Bridgetown, Barbados. Photo by Victor Block</em></p>
<p>At the thought of fish cakes yet to come, my stomach started to rebel. Until I tasted them. Okay, so apparently, I wasn't done.</p>
<p>A WALKING FOOD TOUR IN BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS IS A GREAT INTRODUCTION TO THE MANY BAJAN SPECIALTIES</p>
<p>At the food market (go figure!), we sampled locally grown fruits and juices before moving on to another mini-meal of fish, peas and rice and more root vegetables. As delicious as everything was, I wasn't disappointed to hear that we only had one stop left. For the first time since I had arrived in Barbados, I wasn't thinking about where I wanted to go for dinner!</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12365534295,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12365534295,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12365534295?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="605" height="675" /></a></p>
<p><em>A fabulous fish cake on a Barbadan food tour. Photo by Victor Block</em></p>
<p>But tourists cannot live by food and drink alone. A little island culture is also required, offered by many tours. But do not even think about taking THIS tour after eating and drinking. That would be the Island Safari tour, part sightseeing, part adrenaline rush. As we got into the open-air van, our driver/guide Wayne casually mentioned we should be prepared for a bumpy ride, mud and water. Truer words were never spoken.</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12365534487,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12365534487,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12365534487?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="633" height="597" /></a></p>
<p><em>The open-air van that takes you on a thrill tour of Barbados. Photo by Victor Block</em></p>
<p>Yes, lots of history, horticulture (the only thing Wayne loves more than mud are trees), culture, tradition, legends punctuated by panoramic views of the island. Then he casually mentioned that we might go off-road a bit.</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12365534882,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12365534882,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12365534882?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="710" /></a></p>
<p><em>Beautiful views of Barbados accompanied our Safari Island Tour. Photo by Victor Block</em></p>
<p>A mile of hair-raising, terrifying, mud-driven insanity just for the sake of adventure. Then on to more sight-seeing. But by the time my various organs returned to their normal locations in my body, we were off again. Wayne delighted in leaving the rough, pot-holed, winding supposedly paved roads to take rough, pot-holed winding muddy dirt paths that cut through sugar cane fields. His usual patter rescinded as did any attempt of mine to take notes. Hard to do when you’re holding on for dear life. Incredibly harrowing -- but oh so much fun. Not for the faint of heart or body, however.</p>
<p>My favorite stop among many was an array of colorful carved animals sculpted into a mountainside along the road. A life-size giraffe, elephant, baboon, rhino, hippo, zebra -- certainly legitimized the safari part of the tour name.</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12365535267,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12365535267,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12365535267?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="622" height="454" /></a></p>
<p><em>Animals carved into a roadside mountainside is an amazing stop on a Safari Tour in Barbados. Photo by Flickr</em></p>
<p>THE SAFARI TOUR IN BARBADOS IS UNMATCHED FOR FUN AND ADVENTURE </p>
<p>There are signs everywhere admonishing you not to sit or park under coconut trees. Now that's something you pay attention to. But if you still crave the milky white liquid, there are numerous roadside stands -- often tended to by men with machetes -- offering juice without any threat to bodily injury (despite the machetes...).</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12365535461,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12365535461,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12365535461?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="628" height="522" /></a><em>Better to find coconuts along the road than to be hit by one while under a tree. Photo by Victor Block</em></p>
<p>Did I mention Wayne's jovial discourse? A sample of Wayne humor: Royal Palm trees, which reach higher in the sky than their less mighty cousins but lack their coconut bounty, are a symbol of wealth. "Just like a politician," remarked Wayne, "they stand high above you and do nothing." Bada boom.</p>
<p>So much to see and do, and with a 2-1 ratio of Barbadan dollar to that of the U.S. -- and very reasonable prices throughout the island -- you can actually afford to do almost all. And yes, there are also beaches -- lots of beautiful sand beaches. If you're into that sort of thing....</p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12365535100,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-full" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12365535100,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12365535100?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="710" /></a></p>
<p><em>Yes, there are also beaches in Barbados. Photo by Victor Block</em></p>
<p>For more information, visit <a href="http://mountgayrum.com" target="_blank">mountgayrum.com</a>, <a href="http://islandsafari.bb" target="_blank">islandsafari.bb</a> and <a href="http://lickrishfoodtours.com" target="_blank">lickrishfoodtours.com</a>.</p></div>St. John, the USA´s Dreamiest Caribbean Island Paradisehttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/st-john-united-states-virgin-islands-travel-beaches-ecotourism2023-12-19T16:40:00.000Z2023-12-19T16:40:00.000ZJordan Simonhttps://tripatini.com/members/JordanSimon<div><p><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12280909253,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12280909253,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12280909253?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/green-leafed-trees-and-body-of-water-nRZoLSr0mEE" target="_blank">Josh Duncan</a></em></span></p>
<p><br /> <br /> The smallest of the three <strong>U.S. Virgin Islands</strong> – just seven miles long and three miles wide (roughly 11 by five kilometers) and with a permanent population just under 99,000 – is the favorite of some because it´s less developed and more pristine-feeling than <strong>St. Croix</strong> and <strong>St. Thomas</strong>. Some of its highlights include:</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12280930053,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12280930053,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12280930053?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/44768401@N07/24962793746" target="_blank">Matt Wade</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><br /> Cute, Laid Back, Welcoming Towns</strong></span></p>
<p>On its west coast, St. John´s largest settlement is <strong>Cruz Bay</strong> (above pop. around 4,200), where <strong>Mongoose Junction</strong> and <strong>Wharfside Village</strong> are a pair of popular shopping/dining complexes (<strong>King Street</strong> and <strong>Main Street</strong> are also home to some nice shops), and the town’s historic district is on the U.S<strong>. National Register of Historic Places</strong>, with some 20 points of interest dating back to 1720, such as the mid-18th-century <strong>Enighed Great House</strong> (now home to the town library and cultural center), the <strong>Emmaus Moravian Church</strong> (1750-1782), and the ruins of the Danish <strong>Fortsberg</strong> fort (1760). There´s also a nice town beach as well as even a small casino-bar called the <a href="https://www.parrotclubvi.com/"><strong>Parrot Club</strong></a>. And of course there are a variety of lodging options to use as a base to explore the island, from bed and breakfasts up to full-scale resorts.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, over on the east side, <strong>Coral Bay</strong> (pop. around 650) – which incidentally was the site of the island´s first permanent settlement, founded by Danish planters in the 1720s – is an even more laid back, less touristy affair, with a dash of bohemian charm and an assortment of nice shops, bars, and restaurants.</p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12280931890,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12280931890,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12280931890?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/34128007@N04/22768766559/" target="_blank">flickr</a><br /> </span></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/planyourvisit/snorkeling.htm"><span style="font-size:14pt;">Beaches to Die For</span></a></strong><br /> <br /> Most of the islands best strands are on its north shore, within the <strong>Virgin Islands National Park</strong> (more about that below), and the most famous – and according to aficionados one of the world´s most beautiful – is <strong>Trunk Bay</strong> (above), with clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand, a fascinating underwater snorkel trail, and a number of amenities, including lifeguards, a snack bar, and rentals of beach chairs and snorkeling gear. <br /> <br /> A five-minute drive away from Trunk Bay, also gorgeous<strong> Cinnamon Bay </strong>is – at more than a half mile – the island´s longest beach. It´s similar in attributes to Trunk, plus one big extra: a <a href="https://www.cinnamonbayvi.com/">camping resort</a> whose options range from bare sites up to elaborate tents and cottages with electricity; there´s also an eatery and social center called <a href="https://www.cinnamonbayvi.com/eat"><strong>Rain Tree Café</strong></a>, and nearby are ruins of a centuries-old plantation (see below).<br /> <br /> Other wonderful beaches include <strong>Maho Bay</strong> (just a 15-minute drive from Cruz Bay and where you can spot marine turtles); secluded, romantic <strong>Honeymoon Beach</strong> (accessible from Cruz Bay by a short hike or water taxi); and serene, less touristy <strong>Salt Pond Bay</strong> (which unlike the others is located on the south coast and so is a bit more of a drive from Cruz Bay – 40 minutes – though just over 15 from Coral Bay).</p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12280933255,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12280933255,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12280933255?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://picryl.com/media/hawksbill-sea-turtle-swimming-virgin-islands-national-park-2015-e47137" target="_blank">picryl</a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><br /> </strong><strong>Abundant Nature</strong> <strong>& Adventure</strong></span><br /> <br /> Let´s start with the fact that the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/index.htm">Virgin Islands National Park</a> covers nearly 60 percent of the island, based on land donated by millionaire philanthropist <strong>Laurence Rockefeller</strong> in 1956, and it harbors more than 20 trails which take hikers through diverse terrains, including various beaches, rock <a href="https://www.nps.gov/articles/petroglyphs-of-reef-bay.htm">petroglyphs</a> carved by the ancient Taíno people (in some cases more than a thousand years ago), and the ruins of centuries-old plantations (more about them below). Particularly notable routes include <strong>Rams Head Trail</strong> along the coast and the popular but a bit more strenuous, back-country <strong><a href="https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/reef-bay-trail.htm">Reef Bay Trail</a></strong>, which includes an option for <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/planyourvisit/rangerguidedtours.htm">ranger-guided hikes</a> including a boat ride back to your starting point.</p>
<p>Besides hiking, popular and highly rewarding adventure activities on/in the water include kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, and diving/snorkeling, all of which you can do either independently or on guided tours. <strong>Waterlemon Cay</strong>, for example – accessible via the <strong>Leinster Bay Trail</strong> – is a fantastic spot for snorkeling the coral reef, where you´ll see a variety of colorful marine life including giant Hawksbill marine turtles (on a number of beaches at certain times of year you can also observe the females laying eggs and hatchlings racing to the sea).</p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12280933877,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12280933877,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12280933877?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Annaberg_Plantation_windmill.jpg" target="_blank">Pi3.124</a></span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-size:14pt;"><br /> A Helping of History</span> </strong></p>
<p>In addition to the Cruz Bay Historic District and the petroglyphs mentioned above, there are several other notable sites at which to explore St. John´s past stretching back more than three centuries to its settlement by Danish planters from <strong>St. Thomas</strong> who named the island St. Jan. These are the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/historyculture/places.htm">ruins of sugar plantations</a> – the only ones left of the more than 100 which existed on the island in the 18th century – and part of the national park. The best known is the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/annaberg-sugar-plantation.htm"><strong>Annaberg Sugar Plantation</strong></a> (above) on the north coast, a 20-minute drive from Cruz Bay; here in addition to various ruins of the plantation house and outbuildings you´ll find exhibits explaining the sugar production process as well as the lives and times of both planters and the slaves who greatly outnumbered them. Also on the north coast near the eponymous bay, at <strong>Cinnamon Bay Plantation</strong> you can see the former plantation house as well as servants quarters, various buildings devoted to a sugarcane storage and processing, and a pair of small cemeteries. A another which is closer to Cruz Bay is <strong>Catherineburg</strong>, just ten minutes away. Near Coral Bay, meanwhile, similar ruins can be found at <strong>Estate Carolina</strong> (which was the first to be established, in 1718), and the <strong>Josie Gut Sugar Estate</strong> (established more than a century later, in 1820).</p>
<p><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Estate_Carolina_Sugar_Plantation#See_also"><br /> </a>Get more information at <a href="https://www.visitusvi.com/st-john">VisitUSVI.com</a>.</p>
<p> </p></div>3 of the Caribbean´s Best Sandals Resorts for Honeymoonshttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/honeymoons-sandals-resorts-jamaica-grenada-st-lucia2023-12-17T06:55:00.000Z2023-12-17T06:55:00.000Zrohny joneshttps://tripatini.com/members/rohnyjones<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12188288859,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12188288859,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12188288859?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></p>
<p>Based in <strong>Montego Bay</strong>, the famous Caribbean resort chain founded in 1981 by legendary Jamaican entrepreneur <strong>Gordon "Butch" Stewart</strong> was instrumental in pioneering the "all-inclusive" concept - paying one (usually very attractive) rate to cover all food and drink as well as many activities and amenities, in addition to just a room. <a href="https://pixiehoneymoons.com/best-sandals-resort/" target="_blank">Sandals properties now number 18 on eight islands</a>, and they´re especially popular with (and indeed, marketed to) couples and especially honeymooning couples. You can get a full rundown of all the properties <a href="https://pixiehoneymoons.com/best-sandals-resort/" target="_blank">here</a>, but in the meantime, here are our picks for the top three Sandals choices for a romantic honeymoon:</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/honeymoons-sandals-resorts-jamaica-grenada-st-lucia?edited=1" target="_blank">Sandals Royal Plantation, Jamaica</a></strong></span></p>
<p>One of seven Jamaica Sandals properties, this resort (top) in <strong>Ocho Rios</strong> is a romantic favorite because it has just 74 oceanview suites on ten peaceful acres. an all-suite butler-service resort. A beach butler will bring you drinks as you lounge by the pool.</p>
<p>Complimentary golf at the neighboring Sandals Golf & Country Club includes transportation and green fees. The champagne and caviar bar is also unique in Jamaica. We found Sandals Royal Plantation to be the most beautiful and tranquil beach of any Sandals Resorts. As soon as the beach opened at 10, server brought drinks and continued to attend to our every need throughout the day. The water was also pleasant, and despite a few floats, the place always felt open.</p>
<p>If you're still hungry for more, the neighboring Sandals Ochi Beach Resort has 16 more rooms and is included in your stay at Sandals Royal Plantation. Many tourists enjoy visiting both locations throughout their trip.</p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa</strong></span></p>
<p>Grenada's Sandals Resort and Spa Sandals Grenada Resort is the perfect destination to unwind on your honeymoon. Many types of water activities are available as well. Pink Gin Beach in the heart of Grenada is a picture-perfect Caribbean getaway.</p>
<p>69 different types of apartments are available, such as Swim Up Pool Apartments, Rondovals, and Skypool Suites, each with access to a private butler. The Italian Village is one of four available communities with romantic soak baths. There are ten options, including a steakhouse with international renown.</p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Sandals Grande St. Lucian</strong></span></p>
<p>Sandals Grande St. Lucian is the place to go if you've always wanted to stay in a house perched right above the lake. Guests at this resort regularly describe it as "the vacation spot that comes closest to a picture-perfect postcard." There are 12 restaurants at the resort, while another Sandals resort offers another 15.</p>
<p>The Sandals Regency La Toc Golf Club and Sandals St. Lucia Golf & Country Club at Cap Estate are within easy driving distance of the Sandals Grande St. Lucian. All transfers and green fees are complimentary. You may swim in spectacular underwater playgrounds at Sandals Regency La Toc and Sandals Halcyon Beach.</p>
<p><strong> </strong></p></div>The Jewel in Puerto Rico's Eco Crown: El Yunque Rainforesthttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/puerto-rico-el-yunque-national-forest-ecotourism2023-10-09T09:40:48.000Z2023-10-09T09:40:48.000ZIberia Airlineshttps://tripatini.com/members/IberiaAirlines<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12244840289,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12244840289,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="750" alt="12244840289?profile=RESIZE_930x" /></a><em><a class="photographer" href="https://www.istockphoto.com/es/portfolio/Arrangements-Photography?mediatype=photography"><span style="font-size:8pt;">Javier_Art_Photography</span></a></em></p><p><br /> The "Isle of Enchantment" offers an amazingly diverse menu of options to visitors, in capital <strong>San Juan</strong> and well beyond - history and culture, for sure, but also tasty eating, drinking, and beaching, along with memorable partying and much much more. But one side of <strong>Puerto Rico</strong> you should definitely not miss is its wealth of eco opportunities, from glowing "bioluminescent" bays to spectacular waterfalls, and most especially a large swath about an hour's drive from San Juan: <strong>El Yunque</strong>, the only tropical rain forest in the <strong>U.S. National Forest</strong> system.</p><p> </p><p><a href="https://megustavolar.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/senderismo-turismo-activo-el-yunque-puerto-rico-joel-carilleti-stock-174947208.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://megustavolar.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/senderismo-turismo-activo-el-yunque-puerto-rico-joel-carilleti-stock-174947208.jpg?profile=original" width="1200" alt="senderismo-turismo-activo-el-yunque-puerto-rico-joel-carilleti-stock-174947208.jpg?profile=original" /></a><em><a class="photographer" href="https://www.istockphoto.com/es/portfolio/jcarillet?mediatype=photography"><span style="font-size:8pt;">Joel Carillet<br /> </span></a></em> </p><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">A Biodiversity Bonzanza</span></strong></span></p><p>At just over 115 square kilometres (44 sq. miles), El Yunque is actually the smallest U.S. Federal forest - yet it's the one that's home to the most diverse with 240 species of trees (26 of them endemic, growing nowhere else), 50 types of orchids, and some 150 of ferns. It is divided into four subforests, depending on their altitude: <strong>Tabonuco</strong>, <strong>Palo Colorado</strong>, <strong>Palma de Sierra</strong>, and the <strong>Dwarf</strong> or <strong>Cloud Forest </strong>The lowest would be Tabonuco, less than 2,000 feet high, and the highest the Cloud Forest, approximately 3,000 feet high, and almost always covered in clouds.</p><p>Its wildlife is also varied, and also includes species you'll find nowhere else. One denizen is the iguana - rare for a forest - and another famous denizen is various types of <em>coquí</em>, a little frog which is Puerto Rico's unofficial symbol, whose name comes from the sound made by the male ("co" to scare away other males and mark their territory, "qui" to attract females),</p><p>Preserving El Yunque is not just a boon for Puerto Rican tourism but for the planet, as it helps bolster our biosphere's critical but increasingly beleaguered biodiversity - thanks to this forest, a number of species are saved from extinction.<br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/arbron/15739684043/in/album-72157650009933827/" target="_blank"><br /> </a><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12244927486,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12244927486,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="750" alt="12244927486?profile=RESIZE_930x" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/arbron/15739684043/in/album-72157650009933827/" target="_blank">Jeff Hitchcock</a></em></span></p><h3><span style="color:#ff0000;font-size:14pt;"><strong>Hitting the Trails</strong></span></h3><p>There's a nice choice of simpler and more challenging - but regardless, you'll want to make sure you have sturdy but comfortable walking shoes, as well as some kind of rainwear, because you may find yourself needing it!</p><p>On the easier end, the <strong>Angelito Trail</strong> takes about 20 minutes to complete and is particularly popular because it ends in a natural pool. <strong>Los Pichachos</strong> is even shorter, but steep, leading up to the El Yunque summit 1,080 metres (3,540 feet) high - obviously the views from up here are worth the effort.</p><p>If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, <strong>La Coca</strong> is about 2km (just under a half mile) long, also steep, and crosses streams which might leave you a tad muddy as it takes you to the wild <strong>Mameyes River</strong>. And the longest (at 8km, a little over a mile and a half) is <strong>El Toro</strong>, which will also take you up to the summit. El Yunque through a fairly steep path of also nearly 8 kilometers. There are areas where it is even necessary to climb rocks, but you will see all the flora of the Forest. This is also the most isolated of the four, but stick to the trail, use common sense, and you'll be fine.</p><p>And a final word of advice: you'll need to <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/" target="_blank">book ahead online to reserve admission</a>, and as much as a month ahead of time.</p><p>So pack your bags and include your swimsuit and good walking shoes. <a href="https://www.iberia.com/es/cheap-flights/San-Juan-de-Puerto-Rico/" target="_blank">El Yunque and Puerto Rico await</a> - happy trails!</p><p> </p><p> </p><h5> </h5><h6> </h6></div>9 Top Restaurants & Chefs on the Caribbean Island of Nevishttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/nevis-st-kitts-restaurants-dining-culinary-tourism-travel2023-09-25T04:10:00.000Z2023-09-25T04:10:00.000ZJulie S. Hatfieldhttps://tripatini.com/members/JulieSHatfield<div><p> </p>
<p><a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-PIN.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-PIN.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-PIN.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>Photos: Timothy Leland, except where noted</em></span><br /> <br /> <br /> Visiting tiny <strong><a href="https://nevisisland.com/" target="_blank">Nevis</a></strong> - just 36 square miles - is treat enough, with its ravishing nature, pristine beaches, friendly, laid back locals and charming inns (including <a href="https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/nevis-plantation-inns-alexander-hamilton" target="_blank">several in centuries-old former sugar plantations</a>). But it´s also packed with 40 or so of some of the finest restaurants anywhere, with food from local farm-to-table and sea-to-table found on culturally diversified menus on a par to what you might find in some of the world´s culinary capitals. My husband and I would have liked to try them all, but here’s a sample of how wonderfully we ate while visiting this beautiful little gem in the Caribbean.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Mount-Nevis-Hotel-Chef-Liam-Haddow-.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Mount-Nevis-Hotel-Chef-Liam-Haddow-.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Mount-Nevis-Hotel-Chef-Liam-Haddow-.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><em><strong><br /> </strong></em><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://mountnevishotel.com/" target="_blank">Mount Nevis Hotel </a>- Chef Liam Haddow</strong></span></p>
<p>This charming boutique property on a former 19th-century lime plantation, has a new chef, and he’s a treasure. From <strong>England</strong>’s <strong>Lake District</strong>, Liam Haddow’s lilting English accent adds an extra touch of class to the menus he presents. He trained under the legendary <strong>Len Unwin</strong>, which may account for his special prowess with desserts. (Unwin is known for his gorgeous spun sugar and chocolate creations.) But we’re getting ahead of the meal.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Mount-Nevis-Hotel-Red-Snapper.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Mount-Nevis-Hotel-Red-Snapper.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Mount-Nevis-Hotel-Red-Snapper.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /><br /> </a>For dinner, my husband Tim had red snapper that had just been brought up the hill by a local fisherman; with sweet-potato mash, sautéed vegetable in a creole sauce, and garnished with pea shoots. I enjoyed a tender rack of lamb in a rich sauce made from pigs’ feet reduction and three kinds of red wine. Dessert was a piña colada panna cotta with pineapple, chili and lime salsa. An extra fudge brownie came too, and although not needed, was gobbled down. All this in a restaurant that looks out on the Caribbean Sea and the island of <strong>St. Kitts</strong> in the near distance, with a tropical moon overhead. A dreamy dinner experience. (By the way, have you ever had a warm chocolate croissant made in-house just before breakfast by the head chef?)</p>
<p><em><strong><br /> <a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Drift-Restaurant-Chef-Nicole-Merchant-.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Drift-Restaurant-Chef-Nicole-Merchant-.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Drift-Restaurant-Chef-Nicole-Merchant-.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><br /> </strong></em><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://www.driftnevis.com/" target="_blank">Drift</a> - Chef Nicole Merchant</strong></span></p>
<p>This outdoor restaurant is so close to the Caribbean Sea it is practically in it. Drift is one of two spectacular restaurants owned by <strong>Mark Fuller</strong>, originally from <strong>British Columbia</strong>. Its young chef Nicole Merchant, as so many on Nevis, made her bones at the <strong><a href="https://www.fourseasons.com/nevis/" target="_blank">Four Seasons</a></strong>, the largest and oldest resort still in operation on the island. It´s like a mother ship, sending out a fleet of young chefs to other restaurants on Nevis after training them in their art. <br /> <br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Drift-Restaurant-a-light-lunch-overlooking-the-Caribbean-Sea-and-St.-Kitts.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Drift-Restaurant-a-light-lunch-overlooking-the-Caribbean-Sea-and-St.-Kitts.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Drift-Restaurant-a-light-lunch-overlooking-the-Caribbean-Sea-and-St.-Kitts.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><br /> Born on nearby St. Kitts, Merchant features a playful menu emphasizing her local heritage. Fried local shrimp with a mango and aioli sauce; a fresh lobster salad using Nevis lobster rather than an imported <strong>Maine</strong> version (Nevis lobster has no claws but has plenty of tasty meat); delicious smoked wahoo carpaccio; “Chef’s Whim,” Merchant’s healthy creation of fresh vegetables . . . and a digestif “as sweet as a goodnight kiss,” served in a snifter. The dinner menu at Drift is similar to the lunch menu but adds heartier dishes such as <strong>Louisiana</strong> barbecued ribs.</p>
<p> <br /> <a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Luna-Restaurant-Chef-Kamal-DCosta.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Luna-Restaurant-Chef-Kamal-DCosta.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Luna-Restaurant-Chef-Kamal-DCosta.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://www.lunanevis.com/" target="_blank">Luna</a> - Chef Kamal DCosta</strong></span></p>
<p>This indoor restaurant is so named because you can see the moon, stars and anything else in the sky from a table in the center, surrounded by royal palms, under an open ceiling. Its chef Kamal DCosta “knocked on the door one day and asked if he could work here,” explains Mark Fuller, the owner. “I told him I had 12 friends coming in that night. Make a multiple-course dinner for them using only what I have already in the kitchen,” I said. “He created a meal at the end of which all the diners stood up and gave him a standing ovation. I hired him on the spot.” Originally from <strong>Kolkata</strong> (aka <strong>Calcutta</strong>), <strong>India</strong>, he first learned how to cook from his chef grandfather (and worked with him at a <strong>Holiday Inn</strong> in <strong>Mumbai</strong>, aka <strong>Bombay</strong>), and studied cooking in India, then French and Italian methods in <strong>New York</strong>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Luna-Restaurant-Grilled-hand-dived-local-lobster-a-favorite-entree-at-Luna-Restaurant-by-Vikki-Fuller.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Luna-Restaurant-Grilled-hand-dived-local-lobster-a-favorite-entree-at-Luna-Restaurant-by-Vikki-Fuller.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Luna-Restaurant-Grilled-hand-dived-local-lobster-a-favorite-entree-at-Luna-Restaurant-by-Vikki-Fuller.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>Vikki Fuller</em></span></p>
<p><br /> When you ask his philosophy of food, DCosta replies “Keep it simple, don’t add extra spice, and don’t make diners feel stuffed.” He loves the local hand-caught lobster (above, grilled) as well as paté of all kinds, has his own method of making butter (which he insists is healthier than the normal kind) and is a proponent of an Ayurvedic lifestyle. From his menu Tim enjoyed a slow roast pork pate on garlic toast and a vegan ensemble. I chose fire-grilled, cinnamon-flavored local lobster garnished with star anise and accompanied by saffron rice. Luna is decorated with the large realistic paintings of monkeys and other Nevisian fauna done by the owner´s wife, artist <strong>Vikki Fuller</strong>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Bananas-Restaurant-Chef-Kate-Freeman-.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Bananas-Restaurant-Chef-Kate-Freeman-.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Bananas-Restaurant-Chef-Kate-Freeman-.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><a href="https://bananasnevis.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:14pt;">Bananas</span></a> - <span style="font-size:14pt;">Chefs Local women trained by Banana’s dynamo owner Gillian Smith</span></strong></p>
<p>Smith says she named the restaurant to reflect her state of mind — and the electric energy, the pulsating music, the swirl of colors and the overflowing guests that are a part of the restaurant are indeed a bit “bananas.” The restaurant sits at the top of a steep hill on property she purchased after moving to Nevis from <strong>Great Britain</strong>. “Starting a restaurant was the most challenging thing I’ve ever done, save for the time I ice-skated topless in <strong>Korea</strong>,” she smiled. Smith turned her restaurant into a nightly carnival that entices people to drive the winding bumpy road up and around to get to it. When they arrive, they climb even higher on foot through a garden lit by flaming torches.</p>
<p><br /> <a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Bananas-Restaurant-chili-margarita-and-passion-rum-punch.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Bananas-Restaurant-chili-margarita-and-passion-rum-punch.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Bananas-Restaurant-chili-margarita-and-passion-rum-punch.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><br /> <br /> Wearing different bright colors every night, the waiters serve fun drinks like chili margaritas and passion rum punches (above) and a menu prepared by local women like <strong>Kate Freeman</strong> (above) that includes succulent pork ribs with bourbon BBQ sauce; a “Bananas Buddha bowl” of grains, pulses (edible seeds) and veggies; pan seared mahi mahi with roast red pepper coulis and risotto cake, and the locally beloved “goat water,” a goat stew. Some say dining here is like eating in a tree house. True or not, it’s as if you’re at a party no matter what night you choose. At the end of our dinner, we told our waiter that Smith seemed like a force of nature. She paused, smiling. “A hurricane,” she said.</p>
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<p><a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Mango-Restaurant-The-Four-Seasons-Resort-Sous-Chef-Xavier-Phillips-.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Mango-Restaurant-The-Four-Seasons-Resort-Sous-Chef-Xavier-Phillips-.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Mango-Restaurant-The-Four-Seasons-Resort-Sous-Chef-Xavier-Phillips-.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></p>
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<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://www.fourseasons.com/nevis/" target="_blank">Mango (in the Four Seasons)</a> - Sous Chef Xavier Phillips</strong></span></p>
<p>At 27, Xavier Phillips oversees the menu of the most popular of this the most famous resort’s three restaurants. Following a round of golf at Four Season’s 18-hole course (the only one on the island), we had a memorable lunch overlooking <strong>Pinneys Beach</strong>, with a picturesque schooner moored in the distance.</p>
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<p><a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Mango-Restaurant-The-Four-Seasons-Resort-beautiful-views.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Mango-Restaurant-The-Four-Seasons-Resort-beautiful-views.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Mango-Restaurant-The-Four-Seasons-Resort-beautiful-views.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><br /> <br /> The menu that day included calabaza and quinoa soup using local pumpkin, mango and coconut cream; a piña colada dish with shrimp and pineapple salsa; “Volcano Curry,” a West Indian coconut milk curry with caramelized plantain; and a black-belly lamb ragout with basil, parmesan aioli and “Caribbean fried mush” (frizzled cornmeal). When asked his favorite food to cook, Phillips, wearing his custom-designed purple apron, replied: “Anything that people love; whatever brings a smile. Like a child getting a new toy, I get excited when I discover new foods and ingredients. My mind feels ‘at home’ when it’s in the process of creating in the kitchen.”</p>
<p><br /> <a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Restaurant-750-Montpelier-Plantation-Inn-Chef-Halva-Browne-.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Restaurant-750-Montpelier-Plantation-Inn-Chef-Halva-Browne-.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Restaurant-750-Montpelier-Plantation-Inn-Chef-Halva-Browne-.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></p>
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<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://montpeliernevis.com/restaurant-750/" target="_blank">750 at the Montpelier Plantation</a> - Chef Halva Browne</strong></span></p>
<p>Built on and incorporating the ruins of an old sugar estate, this is one of Nevis’ most exclusive properties (<strong>Princess Diana</strong> once brought young <strong>William</strong> and <strong>Harry</strong> here because of its privacy and elegance). Its restaurant 750 — the number of feet it sits above sea level — is considered one of the best on the island, as is its chef, <strong>Halva Browne</strong>, 35. Browne, modestly says his own favorite food is “mac and cheese,” but his menu is sublimely complex and creative. He changes the menu every night so his guests, who sometimes stay for two weeks, “won’t get bored with it,” according to the hotel owner. </p>
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<p><a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Restaurant-750-Montpelier-Plantation-Inn-Amuse-Bouche.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Restaurant-750-Montpelier-Plantation-Inn-Amuse-Bouche.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Restaurant-750-Montpelier-Plantation-Inn-Amuse-Bouche.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></p>
<p><br /> Browne, whose specialty is plant-based food, is a winner in the prestigious <strong>Nevis Mango Festival</strong>, an annual three-day event featuring dining experiences, cooking demonstrations and master cook-along classes conducted by international and local celebrity chefs. His amuse bouche on the night we were (above) there used, among other ingredients, the “tanya,” a local root vegetable. Be sure to try his tamarind and carrot soup with walnut crumble; his cocoa spiced seafood pasta; and the deconstructed vanilla goat cheesecake with passion fruit curd, beetroot jelly and meringue. Not to be misses, also, is his mango and red wine sorbet.</p>
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<p><em><strong><a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-The-Rocks-Golden-Rocks-Inn-Head-Chef-James-Eaton-.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-The-Rocks-Golden-Rocks-Inn-Head-Chef-James-Eaton-.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-The-Rocks-Golden-Rocks-Inn-Head-Chef-James-Eaton-.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></strong></em></p>
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<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://www.goldenrocknevis.com/" target="_blank">The Rocks at Golden Rock Inn</a> - Chef James Eaton</strong></span></p>
<p>The luxurious Golden Rock Inn, another historic sugar plantation turned into private cottages set amidst 40 acres of stunning tropical gardens, offers a menu that brings travelers from all over the world. Head chef James Eaton, 42, apprenticed under German, French, Japanese and South African chefs. That may account for why his international clientele feel so at home. “You must have passion to be a good chef,” he notes, and his cosmopolitan cuisine reflects it, including a particular specialty of the Rocks, the creation of the resort’s owner, artist Helen Harden: “Helen’s Moroccan Chicken” with green cracked olives, house preserved lemon, and couscous.</p>
<p><br /> <a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-The-Rocks-Golden-Rocks-Inn-pancakes-with-berries-and-creme-Chantilly.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-The-Rocks-Golden-Rocks-Inn-pancakes-with-berries-and-creme-Chantilly.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-The-Rocks-Golden-Rocks-Inn-pancakes-with-berries-and-creme-Chantilly.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></p>
<p>This passion extends even to breakfast: Eaton’s eggs Benedict with local homemade brioche, sautéed spinach and Creole hollandaise sauce can come with either local wahoo or Canadian bacon, while his pancakes (above) are flavored with spiced rum berry compote and creme Chantilly. For dinner we both especially enjoyed a perfect pan-seared rack of lamb with rosemary baby potatoes and cauliflower puree. The meals at Golden Rock can be taken outdoors in a stone gazebo next to a koi pool or at a private table in the tropical garden in addition to the main restaurant, an outdoor tented site overlooking the koi pool. The staff will even carry it up a hill for you to have at the swimming pool.</p>
<p> <br /> <a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Sunshines-Beach-Bar-and-Grill-Chef-owner-Llewellyn-Sunshine-Caines.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Sunshines-Beach-Bar-and-Grill-Chef-owner-Llewellyn-Sunshine-Caines.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Sunshines-Beach-Bar-and-Grill-Chef-owner-Llewellyn-Sunshine-Caines.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/sunshinenevis/" target="_blank">Sunshine’s Beach Bar & Grill</a> - Chef Llewelyn “Sunshine” Caines</strong></span></p>
<p>Sunshine’s may not be the fanciest beach restaurant on Nevis, but it’s arguably the most popular, primarily because of its charismatic, flamboyant owner, Llewellyn “Sunshine” Caines. Known throughout this small island, the fifty-ish Caines left his native St. Kitts in 1991 and came to Nevis on a friend’s boat, bringing with him $100 and a barbecue grill, which he set up on Pinneys Beach near where the Four Seasons is now. He learned to cook from his grandmother, but otherwise is self-taught.</p>
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<p><a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Sunshines-Beach-Bar-and-Grill-restaurant.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Sunshines-Beach-Bar-and-Grill-restaurant.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Sunshines-Beach-Bar-and-Grill-restaurant.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><br /> <br /> <br /> Either way, the ribs, burgers and Caribbean cuisine he cooked eventually became a huge draw. As did one other thing: his now-famous “Killer Bee” cocktail, the recipe for which is so secret that he says he’d have to kill anyone who found it out. To partake of it — and all the other hearty Caribbean food served here— celebrities such as <strong>Meryl Streep</strong>, <strong>Wayne Gretzky</strong>, <strong>Oprah Winfrey</strong>, and <strong>Al Sharpton</strong> have found their way to this colorful joint, where the good cooking, good music, good service and casual atmosphere make everyone happy.</p>
<p> <br /> <a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Passion-Karen-Belle.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Passion-Karen-Belle.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Passion-Karen-Belle.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></p>
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<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g147377-d10292849-Reviews-Passion_Bar_Grill-Nevis_St_Kitts_and_Nevis.html" target="_blank">Passion Bar & Grill</a> - Chef Karen Belle</strong></span></p>
<p>This is another humble restaurant with great Caribbean food and a one-of-a-kind owner. . . And chef. And greeter. And waitress. And bill tabulator. On the night we were there, 50-year-old <strong>Karen Belle</strong> was all of these —and never lost her infectious smile throughout our stay. Passion Bar & Grill is a transformed mini mart with a corrugated aluminum roof and a series of add-on dining rooms. Belle, the baby of 12 children, was a waitress for 11 years at —where else? — Four Seasons, vowing to “have my own place by the time I turn 40.” And she did. </p>
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<p><a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Passion-the-restaurant.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Passion-the-restaurant.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="Julie-Hatfield-Nevis-Food-Passion-the-restaurant.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><br /> <br /> Her restaurant, which she opened in 2012, has a huge banner on the outside wall reading “Faith, Not Fear,” a motto that helps explain how this single woman created one of the island’s favorite local eating places. Don’t expect foie gras or tuna tartare here but her own recipe for passion rum punch makes up for the lack of luxury. When you dine at Passion you will be getting the essence of West Indian cooking, which she learned from her mother and grandmother: Creole fish, honey mustard ribs, baked chicken wings and stewed oxtail will almost certainly be on the menu - and all delicious!</p>
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<p>To learn more about the Island of Nevis, visit their <a href="https://nevisisland.com/" target="_blank">NevisIsland.com</a>. And help plan your trip, use <em><a href="https://prf.hn/click/camref:1011lqDiw/pubref:Nevis%20restaurants/ar:Nevis/%5Bp_id:1011l457516%5D/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.expedia.com%2F" target="_blank">this Expedia</a></em> affiliate link which, if used, doesn’t change your pricing or booking experience at all. But it may provide a small commission to support the running of RealFoodTraveler.com.<br /> <br /> Hungry for more? Check these out on our site!<br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/sandy-island-anguilla-caribbean-lunch/" target="_blank">Beachside dining in Anguilla</a><br /> <em><a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/rum-appreciation-nevis/" target="_blank">Nevis’ rum scene</a><strong><br /> </strong></em></p>
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<p><em><span style="font-size:8pt;">Disclaimer: Julie and her husband were hosted for portions of their visit to Nevis. But as is our <a href="https://www.realfoodtraveler.com/about-realfoodtraveler-com/real-full-disclosure/" target="_blank">policy</a>, that does not influence their reporting of their experience. </span><br /> <br /> </em></p></div>Several of the Best Things to Do in Havanahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/havana-cuba-attractions-tourism-travel2023-07-25T04:18:23.000Z2023-07-25T04:18:23.000ZLowest Flight Fareshttps://tripatini.com/members/LowestFlightFares<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12160582699?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p><span style="font-weight:400;">What might be the most surprising thing to travelers concerning Havana is how well-rounded the city is. The art lovers will be delighted by the extensive collection of Cuban artwork on in the Museum of Fine Arts. People who love history will likely be in awe of the artifacts displayed at the Museo de la Revolucion while readers will be giddy when they see Finca Vigia, Hemingway's former residence. To really experience Havana's charm, take a stroll through the lively streets (streets) that make up Old Havana or drink with locals on El Malecon. The possibilities for having a great experience in Havana are infinite.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Hence, to enjoy a classic holiday, book your </span><a href="https://www.lowestflightfares.com/cheap-flights/north-america/cuba/havana/"><strong>cheap flights to Havana</strong></a><span style="font-weight:400;"> soon.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight:400;">El Malecon</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">For tourists, Old Havana may be the city's soul and heart However, for Cubans the city is El Malecon. In terms of technicality, El Malecon is a 5-mile-long boulevard that runs along the water and includes Havana Bay on one side and the outskirts of Old Havana, Vedado and Central Havana on the other depending on where you're located. In a metaphorical sense, El Malecon is both an area of gathering and a place to rest for residents seeking some breath after a tiring night or day.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Like the inhabitants of Havana Visitors are equally enthralled with El Malecon. Many of the recent travelers have discovered El Malecon to be a stunning seaside stroll, but said that the attraction is at its full potential in the evening. Take note that a portion areas of the boardwalk aren't as established as other areas, therefore wearing a good pair of shoes can make your walk more comfortable. El Malecon starts at the end of Paseo de Marti, Old Havana's main thoroughfare. It is finished at the entrance to the Almendares River, at the end of the Vedado neighborhood. El Malecon is completely free to explore and is all year round. Since it's located at the edge of Old Havana and the trendy Vedado neighborhood there are restaurants and shops close by.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight:400;">Old Havana</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">The decision to skip Old Havana is tantamount to not seeing Parliament even if there's London as well as the Eiffel Tower in Paris. This charming area is not only famous for Havana and Cuba however, it is also a landmark to the entire world. In the 1980s, Old Havana was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, because of the incredible preservation of a few of the region's older buildings. When you walk throughout Old Havana, you'll see many different styles of architecture that include baroque and neoclassical design elements, adorned with the most vibrant colors. The area is also filled with beautiful cobblestone plazas and cars that appear as if they're from museums, and masses of people who are equally fascinating regardless of whether they are Cuban street performers or awestruck travellers from all over the world.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Others suggested taking an organized tour as it's easy to forget all the history and rich culture that was part of the streets. Havana Tour Company and Intrepid Urban Adventures provide tours of the neighborhood, with English-speaking guides, lasting three to three and a half hours for a cost. Old Havana can be visited all year and admission is free.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight:400;">Plaza Vieja</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Of all the beautiful squares that line Old Havana, Plaza Vieja is believed to be the principal square. The cobblestone-lined square is surrounded by brightly colored baroque as well as art nouveau-style buildings that house eateries as well as art galleries, houses and even cameras obscura. It was built in 1559. The plaza has been through many changes and played host to numerous historical events - both positive and bad. Festivities and parades were commonplace in the days as were bullfights, as well as public executions. Plaza Vieja used to be an area for military drills before it became the location of the market in open air. In the following years it was turned into a park. It was later transformed into a parking underground structure, if you believe it.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">If you're in the mood it is said that the best method to soak in the ambience at the Plaza Vieja is to have an outdoor drink and lay back and relax while watching everyone who walks through. As it is situated within the pedestrian friendly Old Havana, Plaza Vieja is accessible via walking.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight:400;">Plaza de la Catedral</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">If you're among those travellers who believe that if you've only seen one place, you've seen them the entire time, then haven't seen Plaza de la Catedral. It is a top attraction for new travelers, Plaza de la Catedral is well worth the extra time due to its magnificent 18th-century cathedral that is also known as Catedral de la Habana. The visitors were captivated by the magnificent baroque church which was once described by a Cervantes Prize winning writer as "music that was turned in stone."</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">The square is tiny, so don't expect to have as many facilities (there's the one place to eat) as adjacent Plaza Vieja. The lack of space isn't what irks the visitors. The thing that irked visitors was the amount of people in the square is when cruise ships dock in the harbor of the city. If you know when cruise ships dock, travelers highly recommend planning their visit in the vicinity of that. You can find Plaza de la Catedral in Old Havana. Plaza de la Catedral is open to the public for free and all year round.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight:400;">Museum of the Revolution</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">There's no better spot to learn about the history of the country other than Museo de la Revolucion. The museum traces the history and times prior to the revolution, as well as the people and events that resulted in Fidel Castro's resounding revolution. Artifacts on display help visitors understand the thoughts that were going through the minds of revolution fighters. Relics that stand out are blood-stained clothing of the fallen soldiers from the Santiago de Cuba Moncada Barracks attack, maps utilized for navigation during the war, as well as the bullet holes that were left from the attempted assassination attempt on Fulgencio Batista. The exhibit is situated in the main staircase. There are also sections specifically dedicated to Che Guevara and Castro as well as in front of the building is the tank utilized for Castro in Castro's Bay of Pigs invasion is visible from the outside.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Visitors also praised the architectural style of the former palace with interiors designed for Tiffany & Co. and an Room of Mirrors inspired by that of the Palace of Versailles. A few visitors expressed regret at not having read about Cuba's history prior to visiting the museum, and others were disappointed that a small portion exhibits were English. The Museo de la Revolucion on Avenida Belgica, located a few blocks to the east of the main street in Old Havana, Paseo de Marti.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight:400;">Finca Vigia</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Havana is renowned for many things - old cars vibrant locals, gorgeous buildings, but one name that has remained associated with the capital of Cuba for many years (aside the fact that it is home to Castro) has been Ernest Hemingway. The renowned author resided in Havana for an incredible 22 years, with his wife (one divorced) and numerous pets, even as his United States' relationship with Cuba was deteriorating. Finca Vigia, which translated is "lookout farm" was in which Hemingway wrote a significant portion in one of his more renowned writings, "The Old Man and the Sea." He also was well-known for hosting a variety of VIPs like Hollywood toppers diplomats, writers, and other authors in Finca Vigia.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">It's crucial to be aware that guests aren't permitted to enter his home (for preservation reasons) but are able to view the interiors through doors and windows. While some visitors have been dissatisfied with the rule Many said that they were able to observe the interior of the home from the various vantage points. Visitors to the home of Hemingway were impressed by how well-maintained the house stood in comparison with the rest of Havana. In spite of how well-maintained everything remains, many reported feeling like Hemingway had never gone.</span></p></div>How to Spend 5 Fab Days in Puerto Rico, Full Travel Guidehttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/puerto-rico-travel-tourism-attractions2023-05-25T06:06:55.000Z2023-05-25T06:06:55.000ZStephen Salvadorhttps://tripatini.com/members/StephenSalvador<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/11148192479?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p><span style="font-weight:400;">If you're planning to visit Puerto Rico for the first time, you'll likely be looking to explore a number of things. Here's how you can experience the Boricua lifestyle and to fill your trip with excitement and adventure.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Your first visit to Puerto Rico should be all about discovering fresh sights, distinct tastes, exciting adventures, and the vibrant culture of Puerto Rico. From urban lifestyle to mountain retreats, the beach and walks in the rainforest. Get ready to be captivated by the tropical paradise for the next seven days. Discover what the soul and heart of the Caribbean offers. Explore puerto rico at cheapest price by booking <a href="https://www.lowestflightfares.com/cheap-flights-new-york-san-juan-puerto-rico-jfk-sju"><strong>Flights From New York To San Juan, Puerto Rico</strong></a>, book and save more. Use these suggestions to start your adventures on the island.</span></p>
<h2><strong>First Day: Metro Region</strong></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">When you reach San Juan, get an authentic taste of the Caribbean by a quick trip into the Pinones neighbourhood. It is located in the nearby city of Loiza. This charming strip of beachfront eateries and kiosks is 15 minutes drive from the city (and just five minutes away from the airport). </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">It is possible to enjoy your lunch in one of the numerous restaurants. Such as Hook'd, Donde Olga, or El Nuevo Acuario and indulge in fresh local seafood platters. Fresh-fried red snapper with a whole, shrimp-stuffed mofongo as well as Mahi Mahi with garlic. Also, the piononos. Make sure you drink them down with a cold beer or a fresh fruit frappe.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Dress in your swimsuit If you haven't taken a stroll for La Posita. A quiet beach, framed by a rocky structure that creates a massive small tide pool. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the water, lying on the sand and eating fritters and enjoying the sea breeze before heading to your lodging.</span></p>
<h2><strong>Second Day: Culture</strong></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">The first day of your trip was comfortable, so now is the time to get into Puerto Rican culture fully and enjoy a full day of learning and fun at Old San Juan. This "walled city" is a must-see for any first-time visitor (and the majority of returning visitors too). </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Explore the 500-year-old Spanish forts such as that of Castillo San Felipe del Morro Visit museums. A rich history, such as the Casa Blanca Museum, a mansion that was built in the 1500s to honour Juan Ponce de Leon. Make sure to stop at the landmarks such as The Gate of San Juan and La Rogativa for the perfect photo opportunity.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Discover more about the Island's past and the conquistadors at important spots such as El Cuartel de Ballaja. It is home to the Museo de Las Americas and the gourmet specialty café Don Ruiz. It is also possible to book guided tours or go by yourself. Take the time to explore the smaller shops and galleries within the town. Watch the people on some of the squares and cool down with a frozen snow cone. Purchased from a piragua-cart or popsicle by Senor Paleta.</span></p>
<h2><strong>Third Day: The West Coast</strong></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Are you up to go on a road trip? After a tiring time spent in San Juan and a night of drinking, a trip out is long overdue. Enjoy brunch in the hotel, or go to an artisan bakery nearby (Sobao from Los Cidrines in Condado or Las Canarias in Isla Verde are sure to please) Get your things organised and set your GPS for Rincon... Rincon is the westernmost point on the island.</span></p>
<p>Read .</p>
<h3><strong>Rio Camuy Cave Park</strong></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">A trip on the road toward the west must be accompanied by the stop at Rio Camuy Cave Park, a famous cave system that offers stunning views of the island's landscape. This is a popular spot where you can go on the guided hike, where you'll be taught about the Tainos as well as the native island's species of flora and fauna.</span></p>
<h2><strong>Fourth Day: Embrace the Laid Back Vibes</strong></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">You're located in Rincon which is the surfing as well as sunset capital city of Puerto Rico, so it is only natural to take an afternoon of relaxation after a long day of sightseeing and driving. Begin your day with Barefoot Yoga located in an open-air studio that offers an easy yoga class, with natural beauty. There is no need to reserve a spot, but it's highly suggested if you'd like to take an individual class that is tailored to specific requirements.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">To have breakfast, head towards the top of the hill toward The English Rose. This is definitely the most sought-after breakfast establishment in Rincon and it is recommended to reserve a table prior to getting there. The menu is local-inspired along with English and American menus.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Check your <strong><a href="https://www.lowestflightfares.com/emirates-airlines-flight-status/" target="_blank">Emirates Airlines flight status</a></strong> and get real-time updates on any changes that might affect your travel plans.</span></p>
<h2><strong>Fifth Day: Ponce</strong></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">The west and north coasts and now it's time to visit the south coast. Start driving again and put your GPS on Ponce which is where you'll be able to explore a few famous landmarks on the way, such as that of the Porta Coeli Church in San German which is the second-oldest Church located in Puerto Rico and one of the largest religious art galleries on the island.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Once in Ponce, take a guided tour of the town square. In the vicinity, you will find numerous sculptures of lions, and the Fuente de los Leones. The Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe and the Mayor's residence. If you're in the area, make sure to sample the famous Helados (ice cream) at King's Cream.</span></p></div>The Tropical, Enduring Appeal of Montego Bay, Jamaicahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/montego-bay-jamaica-caribbean2023-04-26T04:20:00.000Z2023-04-26T04:20:00.000Zmarcos stonehttps://tripatini.com/members/marcosstone<div><p><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><span style="font-weight:400;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}10934512856,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}10934512856,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="10934512856?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Montego_bay-1001.jpg" target="_blank">Grahampurse</a></span></em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> Served by its own very nearby airport (the <strong>Caribbean</strong>'s biggest and busiest), the third largest city in <strong>Jamaica</strong> (as well as the English-speaking Caribbean, with a population of around 110,000), <strong>MoBay</strong> has since the 1960s been an anchor of Jamaica's tourism industry, and one of the island's most visited spots, as well as a very popular cruise port of call. Located in the island's northwest, the city's main draw remains the gorgeous, white-sand beaches with tranquil, aquamarine waters fringed by lush palm trees and lined with various hotels and resorts from modest to ultra-luxe. Top strands include <strong>Doctor's Cave Beach</strong> (below) along <strong>Gloucester Avenue</strong> (the name coming from a cave once used by a physician to treat respiratory ailments); <strong>Dump Up Beach</strong>, downtown and especially popular with locals; and <strong>Montego Beach</strong>, about a mile from downtown. <br /> <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}11031418870,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}11031418870,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="11031418870?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Doctors-Cave-Beach.jpg" target="_blank">Mattes</a></em></span><br /> <br /> <br /></span><span style="font-weight:400;">MoBay is also brimming with life and culture. Its backbone is Gloucester Avenue, aka the "Hip Strip," lined with shops, art galleries, handicraft markets, eateries including those serving classic jerk chicken, and various entertainment venues. Downtonw's <strong>Sam Sharpe Square</strong> (below, named after a 19th-century slave who was a hero in Jamaica's struggle for independence) is another hub, home to a cobblestone plaza with a sculptural monument to Sharpe and his fellow freedom fighters, a number of colonial-era buildings, and the <strong><a href="https://montegobayculturalcentre.org/" target="_blank">Montego Bay Cultural Centre</a></strong>, with exhibitions on Jamaican history. Outside downtown, one major must-visit is <strong><a href="https://rosehall.com/" target="_blank">Rose Hall</a></strong>, an 18th-century Georgian plantation house restored as a museum of the estate's notorious slave history.<br /> <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}11031417667,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}11031417667,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="11031417667?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/tiyab/18471381146" target="_blank">Stéphane DAMOUR</a></em></span><br /> <br /> <br /> The surrounding countryside and slightly beyond also offer numerous excursion and adventure options, including rafting and tubing on the <strong>Great River</strong> and the <strong>Martha Brae River</strong>; several world-class golf courses such as <strong><a href="https://www.halfmoon.com/golf/overview" target="_blank">Half Moon</a></strong> and <strong><a href="https://rosehall.com/golf/cinnamon-hill/" target="_blank">Cinnamon Hill</a></strong>; <strong><a href="https://www.visitjamaica.com/listing/bunkers-hill-cultural-xperience-%26-river-tour/2878/" target="_blank">Bunker's Hill</a></strong>, where you can learn about the heritage of the Taino (the island's precolonial inhabitants) and the maroons (runaway slaves); ziplines; birdwatching; hiking; the historic 18th-century Georgian town of <strong><a href="https://www.visitjamaica.com/listing/falmouth/456/" target="_blank">Falmouth</a></strong>; 40 minutes away; the rum-making <a href="https://appletonestate.com/en/" target="_blank"><strong>Appleton Estate</strong></a> (two hours south), and the terraced, 180-foot-high <strong><a href="https://www.dunnsriverfalls.net/" target="_blank">Dunn's River Falls</a></strong> (below), which visitors can climb an hour and a half away in <strong>Ocho Rios</strong>.<br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}11031432059,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}11031432059,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="11031432059?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/chrisschoenbohm/5375527558" target="_blank">Chris Ford</a></em></span><br /> <br /> </span></p>
<h2><strong>Practical Information</strong></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><strong>Entry documents</strong>: for citizens of <strong>Australia</strong>, <strong>Canada</strong>, <strong>Ireland</strong>, <strong>New Zealand</strong>, the <strong>United Kingdom</strong>, and the <strong>United States</strong> - as well as many other countries - just a valid passport s required for stays of less than 90 days. For a complete list of entry requirements, consult <a href="https://www.pica.gov.jm/immigration/entry-visa-requirements" target="_blank">the Jamaican government's immigration website</a>. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><strong>Weather</strong>: MoBay and Jamaica in general are a year-round destination; just keep in mind that May to November is the wet season, with more likelihood of rain (as well as coinciding with hurricane season in the fall), while the dry season is December to April. Average temperatures are fairly stable, ranging from 72</span>⁰ <span style="font-weight:400;">to 85⁰ Fahrenheit (29-⁰ Celsius) in January to 77-91⁰ F (25-33⁰C) in August. <br /> <br /> <strong>Currency</strong>: At the time of this writing, the U.S. dollar is worth 154 Jamaican dollars (JMD), while the Canadian dollar trades at 114, the British pound at 192, and the euro at 171. <br /> </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Learn more about flying <a href="https://www.lowestflightfares.com/cheap-flights-new-york-montego-bay-jkf-mbj/" target="_blank">from New York to Montego Bay</a> and for more information check out <a href="https://www.visitjamaica.com/plan-your-trip/explore-the-island/montego-bay/" target="_blank">VisitJamaica.com</a>.</span></p>
<p> </p></div>In Cuba, Go West, to Pinar del Río & Viñaleshttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/in-cuba-go-west-to-pinar-del-rio-vinales2023-04-22T08:51:59.000Z2023-04-22T08:51:59.000ZJosé Balidohttps://tripatini.com/members/JoseBalido<div><p><em><a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/es/image-photo/cowboy-looking-over-vinales-valley-landscape-323530235?src=Kvfj4sCmaDpF0LRvQvTv5A-2-11" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://megustavolar.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/ltf/2017/04/L2F-Apr-17-pic-Cuba-Pinar-del-Rio-Vi%C3%B1ales-mogotes-with-cowboy-Shutterstock-640x427.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="L2F-Apr-17-pic-Cuba-Pinar-del-Rio-Viñales-mogotes-with-cowboy-Shutterstock-640x427.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></em></p>
<p><em><a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/es/image-photo/cowboy-looking-over-vinales-valley-landscape-323530235?src=Kvfj4sCmaDpF0LRvQvTv5A-2-11" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8px;">marcin jucha<br /> </span></a></em><br /> <br />For visitors to <strong><a href="https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/discovering-fascinating-havana-cuba" target="_blank">Havana</a></strong>, one of the most popular day and overnights trips besides colonial wonder <strong><a href="https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/the-colonial-and-beachy-charm-of-trinidad-cuba" target="_blank">Trinidad</a></strong> is a visit to the far west of <strong>Cuba</strong>, the mostly rural province of <strong>Pinar del Río</strong> (whose locals, by the way, have over the years endured much teasing by other Cubans as <strong><em>guajiros</em></strong> – "country-bumpkin" peasants – though at least these days inaccurately, as far as I’ve been able to tell). It’s home to not only the eponymous city – which makes for a charming visit in its own right – but also its main tobacco- and coffee-growing country as well as one of the <strong>Caribbean</strong>’s loveliest landscapes: the <strong>Viñales Valley</strong>.<br /><!--more--></p>
<p>A two-hour drive from Havana, the provincial capital (also called Pinar del Río, population around 140,000), was one of the last major Cuban cities to be founded during the colonial period – in 1867, a mere 30 years before the <strong>Spanish-American War</strong> which ended Spain’s rule. This city, as well as towns such as <strong>Viñales</strong> and <strong>Las Terrazas</strong> along with local <strong><em>casas particulares</em></strong> (private accommodations) scattered throughout the province, have in recent years started providing increasing numbers and quality of facilities for overnight or multi-day stays out here. But most visitors continue to come on day trips organised from Havana.</p>
<p>One of on main sights of P del R city (below) is its tobacco factory, the <strong>Fábrica de Tabacos Francisco Donatien</strong>, modest in size, providing the chance to see the world’s most famous cigars being hand-cut and -rolled. Another local-product factory is the <strong>Guayabita del Pinar Distillery</strong>, producing a rum variant flavoured with the fruit of the locally endemic dwarf guava.</p>
<p><em><br /> <a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/es/image-photo/pinar-del-rio-cuba-september-10-326400050" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://megustavolar.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/ltf/2017/04/L2F-Apr-17-pic-Cuba-Pinar-del-Rio-downtown-Shutterstock-640x426.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="L2F-Apr-17-pic-Cuba-Pinar-del-Rio-downtown-Shutterstock-640x426.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></em><em><a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/es/image-photo/pinar-del-rio-cuba-september-10-326400050" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8px;">Fotos593</span></a></em></p>
<p><br /> There’s some interesting architecture in the older part of town, as well, with some grandiose neoclassical buildings and landmarks such as the pink <strong>San Rosendo Cathedral</strong> (1883); the sumptuous, early-20th-century <strong>Palacio de los Matrimonios</strong> (used for weddings and other events); the <strong>Teatro José Jacinto Milanés</strong>, one of Cuba’s oldest remaining theatres (1845); and <strong>Palacio Guasch</strong>, a spiky, quirky 1914 mishmash of world styles which now houses a natural history museum. A more worthwhile museum to actually spend time in is the six-room <strong>Museo Provincial Pinar del Río</strong>, set in the handsome onetime provincial council building, dating from the late 19th century; in addition to exhibits of decorative arts and about the history of the area, there are recreations of rooms with period furnishings.</p>
<p>But for many visitors, the real star out here is the bucolic, fecund countryside, in particular the <strong>Vuelta Abajo</strong> (below), Cuba’s farming and tobacco heartland, dotted with small villages and <strong><em>bohíos</em></strong> (traditional thatched huts) tucked amid the fields and greenery. Most organised tours will include a traditional tobacco farm such as <strong>Casa del Veguero</strong>, with their drying and curing shacks where great bunches of tobacco leaves hang for a month or two from February through May before being shipped off to the cigar factories of the cities.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><em><a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/es/image-photo/vinales-february-20-unknown-man-working-262451258?src=Kvfj4sCmaDpF0LRvQvTv5A-1-12" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://megustavolar.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/ltf/2017/04/L2F-Apr-17-pic-Cuba-Pinar-del-Rio-Vuelta-Abajo-tabacco-worker-640x427.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" alt="L2F-Apr-17-pic-Cuba-Pinar-del-Rio-Vuelta-Abajo-tabacco-worker-640x427.jpg?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></em><em><a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/es/image-photo/vinales-february-20-unknown-man-working-262451258?src=Kvfj4sCmaDpF0LRvQvTv5A-1-12" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8px;">danm12</span></a><br /> </em></p>
<p>The area’s highlight, of course, is the valley of Viñales. Much photographed and painted, the 705-square-kilometre (272-square-mile) plain is surrounded by distinctively angular limestone karst hills the locals call <strong><em>mogotes</em></strong> (top) – which is why, along with its well preserved traditional architecture, crafts, and way of life, Viñales has been a <strong>UNESCO World Heritage Site</strong> since 1999.</p>
<p>The valley’s single most famous attraction is the <strong>Cueva del Indio</strong> (Indian Cave) in <strong>Viñales National Park</strong>. Once a dwelling place for the pre-Columbian <strong>Guanajatabey</strong> people, the jewel in the crown of the extensive local cave system now has electrical lighting and a short boat ride on its underground river. Another smaller cave in the park is <strong>Cueva de San Miguel</strong>, while others prefer the less touristy <strong>Cueva San Tomás</strong> (<strong>Latin America</strong>’s longest, at 47 km/29 mi.), with two-hour tours offered.</p>
<p>Much is also made of a huge 1960s hillside painting of dinosaurs, the <strong>Mural de la Prehistoria</strong>, but it’s really rather cheesy and amateurish, so not worth going out of the way for. One place definitely worth the stop is the <strong>Hotel Los Jazmines</strong> – not just for an nice overnight but also one of the best classic <em>mogote</em> views in the valley. And the mountainous <strong>Sierra del Rosario Biosphere Reserve</strong> near the small northern city of <strong>La Palma</strong> includes various ecotourism and adventure options including a zipline.</p>
<p>In fact, these days, tour operators – both Havana-based and guides affiliated with local hotels and <em>casas particulares</em> – also offer plenty of hiking, biking, birding, and horseback riding options throughout the province. And if you like beaches and diving/snorkeling, there are several paradisiacal options, such as <strong>Maria la Gorda</strong> down on the <strong>Guanahacabibes Peninsula</strong> and the tiny offshore islets <strong>Cayo Jutias</strong> and <strong>Cayo Levisa</strong>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>More information: <a href="http://www.cuba-junky.com/pinar-del-rio/" target="_blank">Cuba-Junky.com</a>.</p>
<p> </p></div>5 Highlights of the Holidays in Puerto Ricohttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/puerto-rico-san-juan-christmas-new-year2021-12-19T00:55:00.000Z2021-12-19T00:55:00.000ZDavid Paul Appellhttps://tripatini.com/members/DavidPaulAppell16<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9885285894,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9885285894,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9885285894?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><em><a href="https://www.istockphoto.com/es/foto/christmas-fuente-en-san-juan-con-exposici%C3%B3n-prolongada-gm174477246-8053847" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;">TexPhoto</span></a></em></p>
<p> </p>
<p>There may be no snow - and precious little ice skating or hot cocoa - on this lush, tropical Caribbean island, but there’s certainly holiday cheer, and lots of it, for a good long time – in fact, <strong>Puerto Rico</strong> takes pride in having the world’s lengthiest season of <em>Navidad</em> (Christmas), around 45 days or so, beginning right after Thanksgiving (meaning the third Friday in November) and lasting through mid-January. Along the way are various festivities, activities, and highlights not to miss. Here are five of them:</p>
<h3> </h3>
<p><br />
<a href="https://love2fly.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/l2f-dec-21-pic-puerto-rico-holidays-lechon-pernil-istock-1160423599.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://love2fly.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/l2f-dec-21-pic-puerto-rico-holidays-lechon-pernil-istock-1160423599.jpg?profile=original" alt="l2f-dec-21-pic-puerto-rico-holidays-lechon-pernil-istock-1160423599.jpg?profile=original" width="1278" /></a><em><a href="https://www.istockphoto.com/es/foto/pernil-cerdo-asado-adornado-con-cilantro-y-naranjas-gm1160423599-317636646" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;">Candice Bell</span></a></em></p>
<h3><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><br />
<span style="color:#ff0000;">Holiday Feasting</span></strong></span></h3>
<p><br />
In restaurants you’ll find Puerto Rico’s classic holiday menu consists of <em>arroz con gandules</em> (rice with pigeon peas), <em>lechón asado</em> or <em>pernil</em> (two versions of marinated roast pork), and <em>pasteles</em> (tamale-like patties of green plantain and meat); typical side dishes include potato or pasta salad and <em>morcilla</em> (rice-stuffed blood sausages). And for dessert, you’ll love <em>tembleque</em>, a coconut-flavored pudding topped with cinnamon; and in place of eggnog, you’ve got <em>coquito</em>, a thick drink also based on coconut and usually served in shot glasses with a tot of rum. Then for New Year’s Eve and day, the dish to eat is <em>asopao</em> (rice soup with chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp).</p>
<h3> </h3>
<p><br />
<a href="https://love2fly.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/l2f-dec-21-pic-puerto-rico-holidays-christmas-mass-candles-istock-108178676.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://love2fly.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/l2f-dec-21-pic-puerto-rico-holidays-christmas-mass-candles-istock-108178676.jpg?profile=original" alt="l2f-dec-21-pic-puerto-rico-holidays-christmas-mass-candles-istock-108178676.jpg?profile=original" width="1254" /></a><a href="https://www.istockphoto.com/es/foto/fe-gm108178676-4813563" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>Instants</em></span></a></p>
<h3><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><br />
<span style="color:#ff0000;">Attending Christmas-Eve Mass</span></strong></span></h3>
<p><br />
Whether you’re a believer or not, it’s a cultural experience to see the reason for the season – celebrating the birth of <strong>Jesus Christ</strong> – at midnight on Nochebuena (Christmas Eve). These <em>misas de gallo</em> (“rooster masses”) are held across the island, and some even include re-enactments of the nativity. Among Puerto Rico’s more atmospheric churches are Old San Juan’s 16th-century <strong>Iglesia de San José</strong> and <strong>San Juan Bautista Cathedral</strong> and the early-20th-century <strong>Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe</strong> in the island’s second city, <strong>Ponce</strong>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://love2fly.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/l2f-dec-21-pic-puerto-rico-holidays-new-years-eve-fireworks-istock-1189150080.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://love2fly.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/l2f-dec-21-pic-puerto-rico-holidays-new-years-eve-fireworks-istock-1189150080.jpg?profile=original" width="1269" alt="l2f-dec-21-pic-puerto-rico-holidays-new-years-eve-fireworks-istock-1189150080.jpg?profile=original" /></a><a href="https://www.istockphoto.com/es/foto/multitud-frente-a-la-vibrante-exhibici%C3%B3n-de-fuegos-artificiales-gm1189150080-336597153" target="_blank"><em><span style="font-size:8pt;">kamisoka</span></em></a></p>
<p> </p>
<h3><span style="color:#ff0000;font-size:14pt;"><strong>Partying Hearty on New Year’s Eve</strong></span></h3>
<p><br />
As in many parts of the world, Puerto Ricans love to pull out the stops on NYE, and in addition to lively crowds on the cobblestone streets of <strong>Old San Juan</strong>, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and hotel/resort ballrooms are rocking all night long. There’s also a full roster of live performances and partying – including the countdown to midnight – at the glitzy entertainment/nightlife complex <strong><a href="https://distritot-mobile.com/" target="_blank">Distrito T-Mobile</a></strong> in San Juan’s <strong>Condado</strong> neighbourhood. Meanwhile, fireworks are shot off over <strong>Condado Lagoon</strong> and the <strong>Puerto Rico Convention Center</strong>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YkLBF7FUsHI" width="1269" height="714" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p>
<p> </p>
<h3><span style="color:#ff0000;font-size:14pt;"><strong>Welcoming the Three Wise Men</strong></span></h3>
<p><br />
As in much of the rest of the Spanish-speaking world, one of the highlights of the holiday season is Ephiphany on 6 January, commemorating the visit to the newborn Jesus in <strong>Bethlehem</strong> of the <strong>Three Kings</strong> (aka the <strong>Magi</strong>, and known in Spanish as the <strong><em>Reyes Magos</em></strong>). And it’s the Reyes who bring Puerto Rican kids gifts rather than <strong>Santa Claus</strong> (though with U.S. influence Santa has of course made inroads on December 25 as well), and they leave shoeboxes of grass or straw under their beds the night before for the Reyes’ camels. Reyes impersonators make appearances around the island today; for example, more than 25,000 locals and visitors alike throng to the good-size town of <strong>Juana Díaz</strong> (20 minutes east of Ponce and an hour or so south of San Juan) to participate in the pageantry around the 137-year-old <strong><a href="http://www.reyesdejuanadiaz.com/" target="_blank">Fiesta de los Reyes Magos</a></strong>, with actors playing the Magi <strong>Melchior</strong>, <strong>Caspar</strong>, and <strong>Balthazar</strong>. There’s even <a href="https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/casa-museo-de-los-santos-reyes/9298" target="_blank">a museum about them</a> here – the only one of its kind in <strong>Latin America</strong> – open all year round.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://love2fly.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/l2f-dec-21-pic-puerto-rico-holidays-san-sebastian-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="https://love2fly.iberia.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/l2f-dec-21-pic-puerto-rico-holidays-san-sebastian-1.jpg?profile=original" width="1600" alt="l2f-dec-21-pic-puerto-rico-holidays-san-sebastian-1.jpg?profile=original" /></a></p>
<h3><span style="font-size:8pt;"> <em><a href="https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/info/fiestas-de-la-calle-san-sebastian#!grid~~~date~1~~" target="_blank">Discover Puerto Rico</a></em></span></h3>
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<h3><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;font-size:14pt;">Ringing Out the Holidays at a Big Street Party</span><br />
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Although for most Catholic countries <strong>Epiphany</strong> marks the end of the Christmas season, here in <strong>Borínquen</strong> (a popular nickname for Puerto Rico) it’s extended by eight more days of <em>octavitas</em>, originally religious celebrations but later secularised and marked by parties and <em>parrandas</em> (like a more festive version of Christmas carolling, including instruments like guitars, tambourines, and maracas). And capping it all off to finally mark the end of the season is Puerto Rico’s most vibrant and colorful festival: las <strong><a href="https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/info/fiestas-de-la-calle-san-sebastian#!grid~~~date~1~~" target="_blank">Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián</a></strong> (<strong>SanSe</strong> for short), a four-day, music-filled cultural jubilee centred around one of Old San Juan’s main streets. During the day, people throng to the plazas to see artists and artisans as well as live music, dance, and even circus acts. After sundown, the party really gets started and the street fills with people and music, with one of the highlights of the festivities a parade featuring <em>cabezudos</em> (marchers wearing cartoonish, satyrical papier-mâché heads). Next month the 68th year edition of SanSe will be held from Wednesday 13 January through the following Sunday.</p>
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<h6> </h6></div>Chocoholics Rejoice! It's time for the 2015 Chocolate Festival in Puerto Viejo Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/chocoholics-rejoice-it-s-time-for-the-2015-chocolate-festival-in2015-10-16T22:21:04.000Z2015-10-16T22:21:04.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009005671,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009005671,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9009005671?profile=original" /></a>Chocolate lovers pay attention!</p><p>Get your fill of chocolate at Costa Rica’s fourth annual <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/chocolate-festival-in-puerto-viejo-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Chocolate Festival in Puerto Viejo</a> on the <b>Southern Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica</b>. Sample chocolate from local artisan producers and top Costa Rica chocolate makers, try pairing chocolate with single malt whiskey or red wine, and attend workshops and fun events all starring chocolate.</p><p>Better than trick-or-treating, the <a href="http://pvchocolatefestival.com/" target="_blank">Puerto Viejo Chocolate <strong>Festival 2015</strong></a> will be held Halloween weekend, <b>Oct. 30 through Nov. 1, 2015</b> in the fun <b>Caribbean beach town of <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/area.html" target="_blank">Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica</a>.</b> The festival’s mission to <strong>“unify local organic farmers, chocolate makers and chocolatiers, while bringing national recognition to the cultural, historical, and economic value of Costa Rican cacao,” event information states.</strong></p><p><b><a href="http://pvchocolatefestival.com/eventos.html" target="_blank">Events</a> will be happening all over Puerto Viejo</b> and the surrounding area all weekend, but <b>Hot Rocks Restaurant & Bar in downtown Puerto Viejo</b> will be the main action point. The <b>free festival</b> opens to the public on <b>Friday night, Oct. 30, from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m.</b> at <b>Hot Rocks</b>. There will be chocolate tastings from local artisan producers and top Costa Rica chocolate makers, live music, acrobatic dancing, and micro-beer brewers, wine professionals and local chefs offering their wares.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008841274,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008841274,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008841274?profile=original" /></a>Starting at 11:00 a.m. on <b>Halloween</b> <b>Saturday, Oct. 31</b>, you can attend <a href="http://pvchocolatefestival.com/talleres.html" target="_blank">workshops and presentations</a>, and of course sample Costa Rican cacao and chocolate related products. One of the most popular events is the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Puerto-Viejo-Chocolate-Festival-440894829282649/timeline/" target="_blank">Chocolate Tasting Lounge</a>, on <b>Saturday night from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.</b>, where you can try chocolate paired with whiskey, rum, wine and other alcohol. <b>Tickets for the chocolate tasting and pairing event</b> are available via the event’s website.</p><p>On <b>Sunday, Nov. 1</b>, there will be <b>special chocolate tours</b> at The Chocolate Forest Experience; and you won’t want to miss the <a href="http://pvchocolatefestival.com/gira-del-chocolate.html" target="_blank">Puerto Viejo Chocolate Crawl</a> when Puerto Viejo restaurants, bars, spas and chocolate shops offer small portions of their most creative uses of chocolate.</p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296606480,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296606480,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9296606480?profile=original" /></a>Where to stay during the Puerto Viejo Chocolate Festival 2015</b></p><p>The place to stay for the Puerto Viejo Chocolate Festival 2015 is upscale <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Le Caméléon</a>, one of the best <b><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/hotel.html" target="_blank">luxury hotels in Puerto Viejo Costa Rica</a>.</b> The <a href="http://www.enchanting-hotels.cr/en/le-cameleon-boutique-hotel.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica boutique hotel</a> is located <b>just south of Puerto Viejo</b> on one of the <b>prettiest Costa Rica Caribbean beaches –</b> <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/prettiest-beach-by-puerto-viejo-costa-rica-is-playa-cocles/" target="_blank">Playa Cocles</a>. An <b>Enchanting Hotel of Costa Rica</b>, Le Caméléon received the <b><a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g1212465-d1200494-Reviews-Le_Cameleon_Boutique_Hotel-Cocles_Puerto_Viejo_de_Talamanca_Province_of_Limon.html" target="_blank">TripAdvisor</a> Certificate of Excellence for 2015</b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008955897,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008955897,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="526" alt="9008955897?profile=original" /></a>Stay at <b>Hotel Le Caméléon</b> for the utmost in vacation luxury and also take advantage of <b>special <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/special/hotel-offers-puerto-viejo-costa-rica.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica Caribbean Summer vacation promotions</a> d</b><b>uring October.</b> The <b>Costa Rica luxury hotel</b> is offering <b>20% discounts</b> off rates for Superior and Deluxe rooms, a <b>Romance Package</b> for couples and a <b>Family Package</b>. Want to go on a <strong><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/activities/321-chocolate-tour.html" target="_blank">chocolate tour in Puerto Viejo</a></strong> or get a <b><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/puerto-viejo-costa-rica-spa.html" target="_blank">chocolate massage</a>?</b> Hotel Le Caméléon can arrange it for you.</p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>Relax! Start off every Costa Rica vacation with a massagehttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/relax-start-off-every-costa-rica-vacation-with-a-massage2015-07-25T00:33:57.000Z2015-07-25T00:33:57.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008977288,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008977288,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008977288?profile=original" /></a>Vacation</b> … we dream about it when we’re working. <b>Time to relax</b>, to unwind, to stop the “fast-paced rat race” and just enjoy.</p><p><b>But how many of us find ourselves finally on vacation and not really relaxing</b> out of our frenetic pace until mid-way through or nearly the end of our holiday?</p><p>There is <b>no better quick entry into that unstressed relaxation mode on vacation than getting a massage or spa treatment</b>. It really is amazing how 60 or 90 minutes of making your muscles and body relax can instantly produce those feelings of bliss and well-being. I recommend <b>getting a massage the day after arrival on vacation to soothe travel-weary muscles</b>.</p><p>With so many things competing for our attention <b>in our accelerated lives, it's</b> <b>easy to fall into being tired, stressed, anxious or exhausted</b>; yet it’s harder to take the time to counteract all of that with something positive like the healing benefits of massage.</p><p><b><a href="http://www.massagetherapy.com/learnmore/benefits.php" target="_blank">Massage therapy benefits</a> you</b> by relaxing tight muscles, easing stress, increasing circulation, releasing toxins, and benefiting your whole body in positive ways. It can <b>boost your health and keep you feeling full of vitality</b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008978666,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008978666,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="423" alt="9008978666?profile=original" /></a></p><p><b>While on <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/blog-category/338-explore-the-magical-south-caribbean-coast-of-costa-rica.html" target="_blank">vacation in Costa Rica</a>, take time for a massage</b>. Your body will thank you, and you’ll feel much more refreshed to fully enjoy your downtime.</p><p>When <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/10-things-expect-costa-ricas-southern-caribbean-coast/" target="_blank">visiting the Costa Rica Caribbean Coast</a>, take advantage of the <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/puerto-viejo-costa-rica-spa.html" target="_blank">spa services</a> at <b><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Le Caméléon</a>,</b> <b>on</b> <b>Playa Cocles just past <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/area.html" target="_blank">Puerto Viejo</a></b>. The <b>upscale</b> <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/hotel.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica boutique hotel</a> features <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/rooms.html" target="_blank">modern rooms</a>, beautiful tropical architecture, a gourmet restaurant, and the <b>fantastic</b> <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/restaurant.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica Caribbean beach club La Sula Sea Lounge</a> <b>on Playa Cocles – one of the <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/prettiest-beach-by-puerto-viejo-costa-rica-is-playa-cocles/" target="_blank">prettiest Costa Rica Caribbean beaches</a></b>. Le Caméléon has been awarded the prestigious <b><a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g1212465-d1200494-Reviews-Le_Cameleon_Boutique_Hotel-Cocles_Puerto_Viejo_de_Talamanca_Province_of_Limon.html" target="_blank">TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence</a> for 2015</b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008979094,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008979094,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008979094?profile=original" /></a>Professional therapists offer <b>spa services using 100% natural products</b>, such as <b>local organically-grown cacao for a chocolate body therapy and massage</b>, and cured smooth bamboo from the region used in a <b>relaxing bamboo massage</b>. See the full <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/images/lecameleon_menu_spa.pdf" target="_blank">Le Cameleon Spa Menu</a>; English is on the second page.</p><p><b>Hotel Le Caméléon</b> <b>also offers</b> <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/yoga-in-puerto-viejo-costa-rica/" target="_blank">yoga</a> in private yoga classes or yoga studio classes in Puerto Viejo, and <b>customized Pilates classes</b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008850453,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008850453,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008850453?profile=original" /></a></p><p><b>How to get to Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica</b></p><p><b>Daily 30-minute flights to Limon from San Jose on <a href="http://www.natureair.com/limon-flights.aspx?gclid=CIquqOrLjsICFZPm7Aod9g0Ajg" target="_blank">Nature Air</a> or <a href="http://crc.flysansa.com/en/destinations/Limon" target="_blank">Sansa Airlines</a></b> make it easy to get to <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/area.html" target="_blank">Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica</a>. From Limon, it is a <b>short drive</b> less than an hour <b>to Puerto Viejo and Playa Cocles.</b> The drive from San Jose to Puerto Viejo is approximately 4.5 hours.</p></div>Costa Rica Caribbean Hotel Le Cameleon keeps every day fresh and newhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/costa-rica-caribbean-hotel-le-cameleon-keeps-every-day-fresh-and2016-03-19T20:50:41.000Z2016-03-19T20:50:41.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p>When we go on vacation, it’s time to do new things, discover new places, try new foods, and generally renew ourselves.</p><p> </p><p>At Caribbean Costa Rica <strong><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Le Caméléon</a></strong>, they live the mantra: “every day is a new day.”</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008974469,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008974469,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008974469?profile=original" /></a>The location of the Costa Rica luxury hotel is definitely rejuvenating: on beautiful <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/prettiest-beach-by-puerto-viejo-costa-rica-is-playa-cocles/" target="_blank">Playa Cocles</a>, where wild rainforest meets golden sand and the dazzling, turquoise Caribbean Sea. Hotel Le Caméléon rests on the road connecting the vibrant, bohemian beach town of <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/area.html" target="_blank">Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica</a> and the <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/activities/324-gandoca-manzanillo-wildlife-refuge.html" target="_blank">Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge</a> to the south.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009023678,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009023678,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009023678?profile=original" /></a><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296612086,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296612086,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="284" alt="9296612086?profile=original" /></a>Going with the <b>theme of their name – <i>“The chameleon”</i></b> – the hip yet relaxed Hotel Le Caméléon is styled in impeccable white with striking dashes of tropical colors that change hue every day. Seat cushions. A painting. Flower vases. Restaurant napkins. Staff uniforms. The daily metamorphosis in your guest room and throughout the hotel keeps things fresh, and has you guessing what each new day will bring.</p><p> </p><p>“When each day the colors in your white resting sanctuary change, you are reminded that ‘every day is a new day’, filled with infinite opportunities for new experiences, new friends, and new thoughts. Embrace this mantra with us. Take the time to sit on your private terrace and soak in your surroundings. Listen to the howl of the monkeys in the canopy or take a relaxing stroll up the beach,” hotel publicity proffers.</p><p></p><p>The <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/rooms.html" target="_blank">23 ultra-chic rooms</a> of the <a href="http://www.enchanting-hotels.cr/en/le-cameleon-boutique-hotel.html" target="_blank">Enchanting Hotel of Costa Rica</a> are tucked in the jungle gardens around a lap pool. Modern rooms in all-white minimalist style are decorated with a touch of vibrant colors, offering a sleek design that is as stylish as it is comfortable. Sliding glass doors lead out to private balconies or patios in all rooms.</p><p></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009050674,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009050674,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9009050674?profile=original" /></a>Hotel Le Caméléon provides <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/puerto-viejo-costa-rica-spa.html" target="_blank">spa services</a>, yoga classes, tour services, and a first-class <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/restaurant.html" target="_blank">restaurant</a>. The hotel’s fantastic <b>Costa Rica Caribbean</b> <b>beach club,</b> <b><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/restaurant.html" target="_blank">La Sula Sea Lounge</a>,</b> is directly across the street on Cocles Beach, and features day-beds, hammocks, lounge chairs, bar and restaurant service.</p><p></p><p>There is so <b>much <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/activities.html" target="_blank">to do in Puerto Viejo</a></b> – surfing, snorkeling and scuba diving, chocolate tours, a sloth sanctuary – it will be easy to enjoy new experiences. </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296612095,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296612095,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9296612095?profile=original" /></a>So, grab your swimsuit and head to <b>Hotel Le Caméléon</b> for a <b>sunny spring holiday</b>. There are easy <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/travel-tips/get-costa-ricas-caribbean-coast-easy-way/" target="_blank">daily flights from San Jose to Limon</a> and it’s a short drive to Playa Cocles.</p><p></p><p><i>“Start your day out with the widest of smiles, and witness the tremendous effect this simple action has on your mood and on everything around you.” – Hotel Le Caméléon</i></p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>Looking for a warm spring vacation? Why not try Caribbean Costa Rica!https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/looking-for-a-warm-spring-vacation-why-not-try-caribbean-costa2016-02-16T23:29:34.000Z2016-02-16T23:29:34.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p>With spring at our doorstep, why not escape to <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/10-things-expect-costa-ricas-southern-caribbean-coast/" target="_blank">Caribbean Costa Rica</a> for a <b>romantic vacation</b> on the beach in the rainforest.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009039096,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009039096,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009039096?profile=original" /></a>With <b>dozens of flights to Costa Rica</b> available from the U.S., Canada and Europe, getting to Costa Rica is easier than ever. Come enjoy the <b>fun-in-the-sun Caribbean lifestyle</b> at the <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/travel-tips-and-articles/best-value-destinations-for-2016" target="_blank">best value travel destination for 2016</a>, resting in luxury at one of the best <b>Costa Rica luxury hotels</b>: <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Le Caméléon</a>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008974469,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008974469,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008974469?profile=original" /></a>Picture yourself lounging on a day bed under shady palm trees with soft white sand and the brilliant turquoise Caribbean Sea just steps away. Order a frosty fruit cocktail from your waiter, or nip up to the bar at the <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/restaurant.html" target="_blank">Le Caméléon Beach Club</a> for some social time and a quick bite to eat. Go for a swim in the pool and cool water Jacuzzi, or get a couple’s massage in the spa. Elegant dining in the balmy tropical nights can be had at <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/restaurant.html" target="_blank">Le Numu Restaurant</a> at Hotel Le Caméléon. In the area, you can see sloths, go snorkeling, learn how to make chocolate – there is so much <b><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/activities.html" target="_blank">to do in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica</a></b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009039699,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009039699,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009039699?profile=original" /></a>Call it jungle love in the rainforest by the beach at <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/prettiest-beach-by-puerto-viejo-costa-rica-is-playa-cocles/" target="_blank">Playa Cocles</a>, just south of <b><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/area.html" target="_blank">Puerto Viejo</a>,</b> at this <a href="http://www.enchanting-hotels.cr/en/le-cameleon-boutique-hotel.html" target="_blank">Enchanting Hotel of Costa Rica</a>. Take advantage of the <strong><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/special/vacation-offers.html" target="_blank">Hotel Le Caméléon special offer</a></strong> of <b>20% off all rates midweek</b> from Sundays to Thursdays during <b>February and March.</b></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008850453,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008850453,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008850453?profile=original" /></a>There are easy <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/travel-tips/get-costa-ricas-caribbean-coast-easy-way/" target="_blank">daily flights from San Jose to Limon</a> on the Caribbean Coast with Nature Air and Sansa Airlines.</p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>Travel changes the world for schoolchildren in Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/travel-changes-the-world-for-schoolchildren-in-costa-rica2013-08-27T17:14:03.000Z2013-08-27T17:14:03.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p style="text-align:justify;">Travel can change the world.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">At least former <a class="zem_slink" title="Bill Clinton" href="http://www.clintonlibrary.gov/" target="_blank">U.S. President Bill Clinton</a> thinks so. “The travel industry has the potential – and the responsibility – to spread peace and change the world,” Clinton told travel executives while speaking at the <a title="President Bill Clinton's comments at World Travel Global Summit 2013" href="http://www.travelmole.com/news_feature.php?news_id=2005934" target="_blank">World Travel & Tourism Council's 13th annual Global Summit</a> in Abu Dhabi in April 2013.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Student travel organizations like <a title="EcoTeach student educational travel" href="http://ecoteach.com/" target="_blank">EcoTeach</a> and <a title="People to People student ambassadors globally" href="http://www.peopletopeople.com/" target="_blank">People to People</a> also think so. The two U.S.-based <strong>educational student travel organizations promote global awareness, peace and cultural exchange</strong> with international educational trips for grades 5-12 and college students.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/People-to-People-project-at-Peje-Union-School-3.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/People-to-People-project-at-Peje-Union-School-3-300x225.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="People-to-People-project-at-Peje-Union-School-3-300x225.jpg?width=300" /></a>Here in <strong>Costa Rica</strong>, EcoTeach and People to People, along with the <a title="Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation" href="http://www.crhf.org/" target="_blank">Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation</a>, have partnered with <strong><a title="Veragua Rainforest Research & Adventure in Costa Rica" href="http://www.veraguarainforest.com/" target="_blank">Veragua Rainforest Research & Adventure</a></strong> to change the world for rural schoolchildren in Costa Rica’s Caribbean region.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a title="Veragua Rainforest conservation and social responsibility partners" href="http://www.veraguarainforest.com/ourpartners.html" target="_blank"><strong>Veragua Rainforest Adopt-a-School Program</strong></a></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Veragua Rainforest is a <strong>nature and adventure park</strong>, and important <strong>scientific research center</strong>, an hour inland from the <strong>Caribbean port of Limón</strong>, in the foothills bordering the <a class="zem_slink" title="La Amistad International Park" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.40708333333,-82.9388055556&spn=0.01,0.01&q=9.40708333333,-82.9388055556%20(La%20Amistad%20International%20Park)&t=h" target="_blank">La Amistad International Park</a>. The area is remote and very rural. People who live there subsist on farming or travel to work in banana or pineapple plantations; Veragua Rainforest has become one of the district’s main employers.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Two tiny communities in the area – <strong>Brisas</strong> and the <strong>Union of the Peje River</strong> – each have their own <strong>elementary schools</strong>. Between 20 and 30 children attend each of the tiny, one-room schools. Facilities are simple – a large classroom, a dining hall, bathrooms, a small grassy area. In Costa Rica, students are required to wear school uniforms, which parents must provide; parents’ also must pay for their children’s school books and school supplies, such as pencils, notebooks, etc. In economy-strapped areas such as these, families often don’t have such extra funds. The schools themselves struggle to meet ends meet as well. That's where <strong>Veragua Rainforest</strong> comes in with their <strong>social responsibility program</strong> and partners like EcoTeach, People to People and the Costa Rica Humanitarian Foundation.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a title="EcoTeach student travel program at Veragua Rainforest, Costa Rica" href="http://ecoteach.com/trips/veragua-rainforest-service-trip/" target="_blank"><strong>EcoTeach</strong></a></p><p style="text-align:justify;">EcoTeach – based out of Washington, USA – operates regular <strong>educational trips to Costa Rica</strong> for high school, middle school and university students from the USA, Canada, and the UK. The organization focuses on <strong>hands-on conservation work, ecology and cultural exchange</strong>. They sponsor four schools in Costa Rica, said Costa Rica Operations Manager Carlos “Pika” Viquez.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Brisas-School-new-uniforms.jpg"><img class="align-left" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Brisas-School-new-uniforms-300x225.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Brisas-School-new-uniforms-300x225.jpg?width=300" /></a>For the past three years, EcoTeach has operated a <a title="Eco-Teach 7-day volunteer travel program to Veragua Rainforest, Costa Rica" href="http://ecoteach.com/trips/veragua-rainforest-service-trip/" target="_blank"><strong>7-day Veragua Rainforest Service Trip</strong></a> that involves <strong>volunteering at the Brisas School</strong>. Over the years, visiting international student groups have helped build bathrooms, put in electricity and running water, installed new roofs and floors, painted buildings, and given the schoolchildren uniforms, books and school supplies.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">“The conditions at the school were terrible. They didn’t have running water or electricity. The school is very isolated and very few people live there,” noted Viquez. “We wanted to help improve the facilities and improve the quality of the kids’ education. What you see now is like a ‘5-star’ school compared to what was there before. But every time I go there, I find something that needs to be done. It’s a work in progress.”</p><p style="text-align:justify;">“Schools like this are not like schools in the States,” Viquez continued. “The students who come to help feel very proud of the work they are contributing. Many of them ask us how they can help once they get back to their countries. A lot of returning groups ask to do more work at the school, and bring school supplies with them.”</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a title="About the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation" href="http://www.crhf.org/about-us/" target="_blank"><strong>Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation</strong></a></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Peje-Union-School-dining-hall-before.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Peje-Union-School-dining-hall-before-300x225.jpg?width=209" width="209" alt="Peje-Union-School-dining-hall-before-300x225.jpg?width=209" /></a>The Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation (CRHF) is a non-profit organization that manages more than 50 projects throughout the country involving education, community development, primary and preventive healthcare, and extensive support services for women, at-risk youth and indigenous groups.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Individuals and student groups from Canada, Europe and the United States volunteer with CRHF. Earlier this year students and teachers from the Robert Alexander McMath Secondary School in British Colombia, Canada, <a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Peje-Union-School-dining-hall-renovated.jpg"><img class="align-left" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Peje-Union-School-dining-hall-renovated-300x225.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Peje-Union-School-dining-hall-renovated-300x225.jpg?width=300" /></a>helped Veragua Rainforest give a much-needed facelift to the Union of the Peje River school. The visiting group painted murals on walls and the school’s dining hall, upgraded the teacher’s living quarters with a fresh coat of paint, installed new roofs, and cheered up pathways with trees planted in brightly painted old tires. Students also spent time at Veragua Rainforest in biology research labs, and had cultural exchange time with the Union of the Peje River school children.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"></p><p style="text-align:justify;"></p><p style="text-align:justify;"></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a title="People to People student educational trip to Costa Rica" href="http://www.peopletopeople.com/find-a-trip/all-programs/central-and-south-america/costa-rica-expedition" target="_blank"><strong>People to People</strong></a></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Peje-Union-School-new-entrance.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Peje-Union-School-new-entrance-300x225.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Peje-Union-School-new-entrance-300x225.jpg?width=300" /></a>Over the last three years, groups with the renowned U.S. educational student travel organization People to People also have <strong>helped Veragua Rainforest improve the Union of the Peje River school</strong>. Students have fixed bathrooms, varnished desks, planted trees, built sidewalks, and donated computers to the school. They even paid for a bicycle for the school director to use for transport to and from school.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">People to People operates a <strong>14-day trip to Costa Rica</strong>; two days are spent at Veragua Rainforest working on environmental research projects and helping at the local school.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"></p><p>Article by <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/104506194721250694108/posts">Shannon Farley</a></p></div>Flights from San Jose to Limon Costa Rica make travel easyhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/flights-from-san-jose-to-limon-costa-rica-make-travel-easy2015-11-24T23:45:46.000Z2015-11-24T23:45:46.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008891290,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008891290,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="543" alt="9008891290?profile=original" /></a>Planning to <b>come to the <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/blog-category/338-explore-the-magical-south-caribbean-coast-of-costa-rica.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica Caribbean Coast on vacation</a></b>? While the <b>drive from San Jose to Puerto Viejo</b> is pretty, there is a much easier way to get to Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast. Fly!</p><p>It takes about <b>four hours to drive the 217 kilometers</b> <b>to Puerto Viejo</b> from San Jose. The stretch on Route 32 through the Braulio Carrillo National Park is certainly very beautiful, but can also be treacherous when raining, foggy, or after dark – a good portion of the time.</p><p>Save yourself the headache and stress of driving. Getting to the southern Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica is easy on <b>30-minute domestic flights between San Jose and Limon</b> operated by <a href="http://www.natureair.com/" target="_blank">Nature Air</a> and <a href="http://crc.flysansa.com/en/home" target="_blank">Sansa Airlines</a>. After the 30 minute flight, it is only a quick 30-minute drive from the Limon Airport to Puerto Viejo. In an hour from San Jose, you can be lounging under a palm tree on a stunning Caribbean beach with a cold fruit drink in your hand. Besides that, the views of Braulio Carrillo National Park and the Sucio, Reventazon and Pacuare rivers are even better from the air!</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008945883,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008945883,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008945883?profile=original" /></a>Costa Rican airline <a href="http://www.natureair.com/limon-flights.aspx?gclid=CIquqOrLjsICFZPm7Aod9g0Ajg" target="_blank">Nature Air</a> operates flights four times per week to the Caribbean port city of <b>Limon from San Jose</b>. Flights depart from the <a href="http://www.fly2sanjose.net/" target="_blank">Juan Santamaria International Airport</a> by San Jose on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, leaving at 5:50 a.m. and arriving to the Limon airport at 6:20 a.m. Return flights depart Limon at 6:30 a.m. and arrive to San Jose at 7:25 a.m., with a quick stop on the way to Tortuguero in the northern Caribbean.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009014069,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009014069,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="530" alt="9009014069?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://crc.flysansa.com/en/destinations/Limon" target="_blank">Sansa Airlines</a> operates <b>flights between San Jose and Limon</b> regularly, departing from Juan Santamaria International Airport:</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009014253,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009014253,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="245" width="245" alt="9009014253?profile=original" /></a>San Jose to Limon: depart 6:50 a.m. / arrive 7:35 a.m. Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun</p><p>San Jose to Limon: depart 7:45 a.m. / arrive 8:05 a.m. Daily</p><p>San Jose to Limon: depart 2:30 p.m. / arrive 3:30 p.m. Daily</p><p> </p><p>Limon to San Jose: depart 7:01 a.m. / arrive 7:56 a.m. Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun</p><p>Limon to San Jose: depart 7:45 a.m. / arrive 8:47 a.m. Daily</p><p>Limon to San Jose: depart 3:40 p.m. / arrive 4:20 p.m. Daily</p><p></p><p><b>Costa Rica Caribbean Coast</b></p><p>Sunshine, warm turquoise Caribbean Sea, palm trees, lush jungle, sloths in the trees, parrots and toucans flying overhead, cool restaurants, great hotels and a laid-back Caribbean vibe … what more could you want on holiday? <b>The <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/10-things-expect-costa-ricas-southern-caribbean-coast/" target="_blank">southern Costa Rica Caribbean Coast</a> has everything for an idyllic Caribbean vacation</b>.</p><p>Try out <b>new adventures</b>: snorkeling or scuba diving around coral reefs, go sea kayaking, hike in the jungle, visit a sloth sanctuary or a jaguar rescue center, learn how to make chocolate, surf some of the best waves in Costa Rica.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008824294,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008824294,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="451" alt="9008824294?profile=original" /></a>Whether you <b>come to Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast</b> for a romantic getaway, family vacation, friends’ trip, or honeymoon, the <b>place to stay in <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/area.html" target="_blank">Puerto Viejo</a></b> is <b><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Le Caméléon</a>.</b> The <a href="http://www.enchanting-hotels.cr/en/le-cameleon-boutique-hotel.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica boutique hotel</a> offers <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/rooms.html" target="_blank">upscale beach accommodations</a> in the tropical rainforest, facing one of the area’s <b>most beautiful beaches –</b> <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/prettiest-beach-by-puerto-viejo-costa-rica-is-playa-cocles/" target="_blank">Playa Cocles</a>.</p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009014653,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009014653,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009014653?profile=original" /></a>Hip, modern and chic</b>, Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel has 23 rooms stylized in all-white minimalism with touches of bright colors that change every day like a chameleon, and <b>all of the comforts you expect</b> at a four-star resort. The hotel’s <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/restaurant.html" target="_blank">La Sula Sea Lounge Beach Club</a> across the street is the place to hang out by the shore and meet friends for a cool drink or a light meal. <b>Hotel Le Caméléon</b> provides <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/puerto-viejo-costa-rica-spa.html" target="_blank">spa services</a>, private yoga classes, <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/restaurant.html" target="_blank">first-class restaurant</a>, reading/lounging areas, and a lap pool and cool water Jacuzzi.</p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>The start of Caribbean Summer in Costa Rica is the time for special dealshttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/the-start-of-caribbean-summer-in-costa-rica-is-the-time-for2015-08-31T18:24:33.000Z2015-08-31T18:24:33.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008824294,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008824294,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="451" alt="9008824294?profile=original" /></a>The start of <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/sunshine-summer-warm-costa-rica-caribbean-coast-october/" target="_blank">Caribbean Summer in Costa Rica</a> is the time for <b>special deals.</b> The <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/10-things-expect-costa-ricas-southern-caribbean-coast/" target="_blank">climate on the Caribbean Coast</a> varies from the rest of Costa Rica. Most of the year, the Caribbean Coast maintains its <b>forever green landscape</b> from regular tropical rain showers. Then, when the rest of Costa Rica enters peak rainy season <b>in</b> <b>September and October, the sun comes out over the Caribbean</b>.</p><p> </p><p><b>Costa Rica's southern Caribbean Coast has everything you're looking for in a beach vacation</b> – adventure, romance, decadent beaches, wildlife, new flavors and music, cultural exchange … and at <strong><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Le Caméléon</a> by <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/area.html" target="_blank">Puerto Viejo</a></strong>, you have the utmost in luxury. <b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008984264,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008984264,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008984264?profile=original" /></a>Now through the end of October</b> is the <b>time to visit</b> <b>Hotel Le Caméléon</b> for <b><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/special/hotel-offers-puerto-viejo-costa-rica.html" target="_blank">special vacation offers</a> in Caribbean summer</b>. <b>Through Aug. 31, 2015</b>, Hotel Le Caméléon is offering a <b>30% discount</b> off rates for Superior and Deluxe rooms (for rates over $168.00).</p><p><b>In September</b>, in honor of <b>Costa Rica’s Independence Day on Sept. 15</b>, Hotel Le Caméléon is <b>celebrating “Our Homeland Month”.</b> <b>In October</b>, Costa Rica celebrates the <b>month of cultures</b>, and <b>Limon,</b> the “capital city” of Costa Rica’s Caribbean region, holds its <b>annual carnival</b> celebration<b>.</b> <b>During both September and October 2015</b>, at Hotel Le Caméléon you can receive a <b>20% discount</b> off rates for Superior and Deluxe rooms.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008984460,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008984460,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008984460?profile=original" /></a>There is a <b>Romance Package</b> that includes one night in a Superior Room for two persons, breakfast, and one Caribbean lunch or dinner per person, for $198.00 plus tax. There also is a <b>Family Package</b> that includes one night in a Deluxe Room, breakfast, and one Caribbean lunch or dinner per person. For two adults, the price is $218.00 plus tax. For families with two adults and up to two children (under age 12), the price is $253.00 plus tax. Children receive a surprise gift.</p><p><b>Costa Rica Caribbean Summer</b> is a perfect time to visit the <b>beautiful beaches of <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/activities/319-cahuita-national-park.html" target="_blank">Cahuita</a>, <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/area.html" target="_blank">Puerto Viejo</a> and</b> <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/activities/330-manzanillo-beach.html" target="_blank">Manzanillo</a>. The <b>Southern Caribbean Coast</b> offers some of the <b>best <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/costa-rica-surfing-in-puerto-viejo/" target="_blank">surfing in Costa Rica</a>,</b> but this time of year when seas are calm, it is ideal for <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/activities/332-snorkeling.html" target="_blank">snorkeling</a> or <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/activities/326-scuba-diving.html" target="_blank">scuba diving</a> in the crystalline waters of the <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/blog-category/375-caribbean-summer-is-a-good-time-to-visit-cahuita-national-park.html" target="_blank">Cahuita National Park</a>, home of the <b>largest coral reef on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast</b>. Now also is a good time for a boat <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/activities/322-dolphins.html" target="_blank">tour to see wild dolphins</a> or to go <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/activities/327-sea-kayaking.html" target="_blank">sea kayaking</a>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008983901,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008983901,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008983901?profile=original" /></a></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008973679,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008973679,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008973679?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Le Caméléon</a> is located <b>on</b> <b>Playa Cocles just past Puerto Viejo</b> on one of the <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/prettiest-beach-by-puerto-viejo-costa-rica-is-playa-cocles/" target="_blank">prettiest Costa Rica Caribbean beaches</a>. The <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/hotel.html" target="_blank">upscale Costa Rica boutique hotel</a> features <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/rooms.html" target="_blank">modern rooms</a>, beautiful tropical architecture, a gourmet restaurant, <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/puerto-viejo-costa-rica-spa.html" target="_blank">spa services</a>, and the <b>fantastic</b> <b>Costa Rica</b> <b><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/restaurant.html" target="_blank">Caribbean beach club La Sula Sea Lounge</a>.</b> An <a href="http://www.enchanting-hotels.cr/en/le-cameleon-boutique-hotel.html" target="_blank">Enchanting Hotel of Costa Rica</a>, Le Caméléon has been awarded the prestigious <b><a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g1212465-d1200494-Reviews-Le_Cameleon_Boutique_Hotel-Cocles_Puerto_Viejo_de_Talamanca_Province_of_Limon.html" target="_blank">TripAdvisor</a> Certificate of Excellence for 2015</b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008985266,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008985266,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008985266?profile=original" /></a></p><p><a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/hot-news/costa-rica-south-caribbean-travel-now-easy-with-new-flight-to-limon/" target="_blank">How to get to Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica</a></p><p><b>Daily 30-minute flights to Limon from San Jose on <a href="http://www.natureair.com/limon-flights.aspx?gclid=CIquqOrLjsICFZPm7Aod9g0Ajg" target="_blank">Nature Air</a> or <a href="http://crc.flysansa.com/en/destinations/Limon" target="_blank">Sansa Airlines</a></b> make it easy to get to <b>Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica</b>. From Limon, it is a <b>short drive</b> less than an hour <b>to Puerto Viejo and Playa Cocles.</b> The drive from San Jose to Puerto Viejo is approximately 4.5 hours.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>Your dream destination wedding in the Caribbean Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/your-dream-destination-wedding-in-the-caribbean-costa-rica2015-06-15T23:47:42.000Z2015-06-15T23:47:42.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008972696,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008972696,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008972696?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/area.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica's Southern Caribbean Coast</a> has everything could want for a <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/special.html" target="_blank">destination wedding and honeymoon</a>.</p><p> </p><p><b>Imagine your</b> <b>dream wedding</b> exchanging vows with your beloved in a stunning <b>beachside ceremony</b> overlooking the <b>turquoise Caribbean Sea</b>, or under the <b>canopy of a tropical garden</b> with the ocean close by. Picture a <b>romantic honeymoon</b> walking on pristine beaches at sunset, torch-lit tropical gardens and balmy evenings, days full of adventure, personalized service, and <b>Caribbean culture and warmth</b>.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008973679,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008973679,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008973679?profile=original" /></a>Costa Rica</b> continues to be <b>one of the most popular locations for destination weddings and honeymoons for couples from North America</b>, due to its affordability, warm tropical weather, natural scenic beauty, excellent services, and ease of travel. According to wedding industry statistics, out of the 2 million people in the United States who get married each year, about <b>25% of those opt for a destination wedding in another country</b>.</p><p>“And it is continuing to grow, especially with the current Millennial Generation that has traveled extensively,” commented Larissa Banting of <a href="http://www.weddingscostarica.com/" target="_blank">Weddings Costa Rica</a>. “This is a generation looking for unique, authentic experiences. <b>The Costa Rica Caribbean Coast is a perfect location</b> because it is a place where people can go and ‘wow’ their friends and family since it is so unique.”</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008824294,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008824294,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="451" alt="9008824294?profile=original" /></a>The <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/10-things-expect-costa-ricas-southern-caribbean-coast/" target="_blank">southern Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica</a> features vibrant seaside towns, some of the <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/prettiest-beach-by-puerto-viejo-costa-rica-is-playa-cocles/" target="_blank">prettiest beaches</a> in the country, lush jungle, crystal-clear Caribbean Sea and <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/costa-rica-surfing-in-puerto-viejo/" target="_blank">amazing surfing waves</a>. The relaxed lifestyle of beach towns like <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/area.html" target="_blank">Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica</a> have a <b>unique blend of native Latino, Afro-Caribbean and Bribri indigenous cultures</b> mixed with a widely-varied <b>international population. Puerto Viejo has a <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/10-restaurants-in-puerto-viejo-costa-rica/" target="_blank">great selection of international restaurants</a></b> and delicious <b>traditional <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/flavors-costa-rica-caribbean-cuisine/" target="_blank">Caribbean cuisine</a></b>. The area also is known for <b>excellent <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/yoga-in-puerto-viejo-costa-rica/" target="_blank">yoga</a> studios</b>.</p><p>“For me, <b>the Caribbean is my favorite location</b>,” noted Banting. “It’s still off the beaten path. The area is teeming with life with the ocean right there, and the backdrop is the mountains always green with jungle. It <b>offers really authentic experiences</b> and is a very magical spot.”</p><p> </p><p>Banting founded her <b><a href="http://www.weddingscostarica.com/#mi=1&pt=0&pi=2&s=4&p=-1&a=0&at=0" target="_blank">wedding planning company</a>, Weddings Costa Rica</b>, in 2003 from her personal experience planning her own wedding in Costa Rica. Weddings Costa Rica has helped more than 600 couples enjoy <b>destination weddings in Costa Rica</b>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008973254,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008973254,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008973254?profile=original" /></a>Banting said the <b>best time for weddings and honeymoons in the Caribbean Costa Rica</b> is from <b>September to November</b> during the <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/sunshine-summer-warm-costa-rica-caribbean-coast-october/" target="_blank">Caribbean summer</a> season. One of her favorite places to hold destination weddings is at the upscale <b><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Le Caméléon</a> on Playa Cocles</b>, a little south of Puerto Viejo.</p><p> </p><p>“You have this very excellent boutique hotel with all of these unique features in a really unique setting. The lovely thing about Le Caméléon is that it offers all the comforts,” said Banting.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008974469,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008974469,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008974469?profile=original" /></a>Hotel Le Caméléon</b> is an <a href="http://www.enchanting-hotels.cr/en/le-cameleon-boutique-hotel.html" target="_blank">Enchanting Hotel of Costa Rica</a> presenting <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/rooms.html" target="_blank">luxury beach accommodations</a> in the tropical forest of Puerto Viejo. The hotel’s 23 rooms border the pool surrounded by lush tropical gardens, across the street from <b>Le Caméléon’s beach club, La Sula Sea Lounge. </b><a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/restaurant.html" target="_blank">Le Numu Restaurant & Bar</a> serves creative international dishes in a contemporary, chic ambience.</p><p><b>For honeymoons, there is a lot <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/activities.html" target="_blank">to do and see in the Caribbean</a></b>, including the <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/blog-category/375-caribbean-summer-is-a-good-time-to-visit-cahuita-national-park.html" target="_blank">Cahuita National Park</a> with its amazing coral reef snorkeling, the <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/activities/324-gandoca-manzanillo-wildlife-refuge.html" target="_blank">Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge</a>, <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/famed-sloth-sanctuary-is-a-fun-puerto-viejo-costa-rica-tour/" target="_blank">Sloth Sanctuary</a>, <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/fascinating-puerto-viejo-chocolate-tour-reveals-ancient-secrets/" target="_blank">chocolate tours</a>, zip-lines, whitewater rafting, and great beaches for surfing and swimming. Whether you want a honeymoon of lying in the sun watching parrots and toucans fly overhead and soaking your feet in the warm Caribbean Sea; or hope to try new adventures, <b>Hotel Le Caméléon can arrange the honeymoon of your dreams</b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008974068,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008974068,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008974068?profile=original" /></a><strong><a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/hot-news/costa-rica-south-caribbean-travel-now-easy-with-new-flight-to-limon/" target="_blank">How to get to Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica</a></strong></p><p><b>Daily 30-minute flights on <a href="http://www.natureair.com/limon-flights.aspx?gclid=CIquqOrLjsICFZPm7Aod9g0Ajg" target="_blank">Nature Air</a> or <a href="http://crc.flysansa.com/en/destinations/Limon" target="_blank">Sansa Airlines</a> between San Jose and Limon;</b> then drive less than an hour to Puerto Viejo and Playa Cocles.</p><p>Driving from San Jose to Puerto Viejo takes approximately 4.5 hours.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>Your own private Caribbean island at Hotel Laguna Azul in Panamahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/your-own-private-caribbean-island-at-hotel-laguna-azul-in-panama2015-05-21T23:57:31.000Z2015-05-21T23:57:31.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008955053,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008955053,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008955053?profile=original" /></a>Ever wanted to have <b>your own private tropical island</b>?</p><p> </p><p>That was the dream of Argentinean Jorge Benatuel, co-owner of <b>eco-boutique <a href="http://www.hotelagunazulpanama.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Laguna Azul</a> in <a href="http://www.hotelagunazulpanama.com/location/" target="_blank">Bocas del Toro, Panama</a></b>.</p><p> </p><p>The <b>intense city-life of Buenos Aires</b> is a far-cry from the backwater <b>southern Caribbean archipelago of Bocas del Toro in northwestern Panama</b>. But in 1998, Benatuel and his wife traveled from Argentina to Bocas del Toro on vacation. <b>They spent 15 days boating around</b> <b>Bocas del Toro’s</b> nine major islands and 200-plus islets, <b>looking for a property to build their own house</b>.</p><p> </p><p>“They were looking for peace and relaxation and being away from noise and hubbub,” explained Hotel Laguna Azul general director Fernando Quevedo.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008954688,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008954688,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008954688?profile=original" /></a>The couple found their dream paradise on <b><a href="http://bocasdeltoro.travel/bocas-del-toro/" target="_blank">Popa Island</a>, one of the more distant and least populated islands of the <a href="http://www.bocasdeltoro.com/" target="_blank">Bocas del Toro archipelago</a></b>. The site is positioned <b>between two lagoons</b> <b>and the open Caribbean Sea,</b> surrounded and protected on three sides by <b>untouched mangrove forest</b>.</p><p> </p><p>The couple returned to Argentina, but before they could build their dream home, Benatuel’s wife sadly passed away. In 2010, Benatuel <b>elected to build an <a href="http://www.hotelagunazulpanama.com/the-eco-hotel/" target="_blank">eco-boutique hotel</a> on the property</b>, with associates Hugo Badareotte and Jorge Santillan of Argentina, and Ruben Navarro from Panama. <b>Hotel Laguna Azul</b> <b>opened in 2011</b>.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008943056,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008943056,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008943056?profile=original" /></a>When you <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/destinations/bocas-del-toro-panama-perfect-caribbean-vacation/" target="_blank">stay at Hotel Laguna Azul</a>,</b> you get to have your <b>own private tropical island</b>. The only population of Popa Island is Hotel Laguna Azul and two small indigenous communities on the other side of the island.</p><p> </p><p>Away from all of the other hotels in Bocas del Toro, the <a href="http://www.hotelagunazulpanama.com/the-eco-hotel/rooms/" target="_blank">eight-room luxury hotel</a> is a place where you can <b>relax and enjoy without sacrificing comfort</b>. Service is attentive with a personal concierge. <b>All-inclusive meals</b> provided by their professional chef are delicious and fresh – as in, just out-of-the-water fresh. The hotel also has a Spa, TV lounge, pool table, table tennis, a fully-equipped gym, and <a href="http://www.hotelagunazulpanama.com/the-eco-hotel/amenities/" target="_blank">complimentary Wi-Fi</a> in the lobby.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008943498,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008943498,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008943498?profile=original" /></a> </p><p>The <b>Caribbean island hotel</b> <b>is built right over the</b> <b>translucent blue Caribbean Sea</b> on 70 concrete pillars. There is <b>nothing between you and the sea</b>. When sitting on the infinity deck you look out over an <b>active coral reef with water so clear</b> you can see the bottom. The area around Popa Island offers <b>some of the <a href="http://www.hotelagunazulpanama.com/activities/" target="_blank">best snorkeling in Bocas del Toro</a></b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008955255,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008955255,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008955255?profile=original" /></a></p><p>Located very <b>close to the</b> <b>border with Costa Rica,</b> Bocas del Toro is <b>outside the Caribbean’s “Hurricane Zone”.</b> “This is the true southern Caribbean,” said Quevedo. “At any moment it could rain, but the rains are short and intense. What we don’t have are dangerous storms.”</p><p><b> </b></p><p><b>Indulge in a Caribbean vacation</b> – without the crowds. <b>Visiting</b> <b>Bocas del Toro in Panamá is</b> <b>easy</b> from North America and Europe via Panama City; or <b>combine with a trip to Costa Rica</b>.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008955677,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008955677,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008955677?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.hotelagunazulpanama.com/location/directions/" target="_blank">How to get there</a>:</b> <b>From Panama City</b>, <a href="http://www.airpanama.com" target="_blank">Air Panama</a> flies to the Isla Colon International Airport on Colon Island. From there it is a 35-minute ride by private boat to Popa Island to Laguna Azul Hotel.</p><p> </p><p><b>From San José, Costa Rica</b>, you can fly <a href="http://www.natureair.com/bocas-del-toro-flights.aspx" target="_blank">Nature Air</a> to Colon Island in Bocas del Toro.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>See sea turtles in Caribbean Costa Rica at Lirio Lodge.https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/see-sea-turtles-in-caribbean-costa-rica-at-lirio-lodge2014-12-19T22:17:10.000Z2014-12-19T22:17:10.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008912667,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="450" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008912667,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008912667?profile=original" /></a>Thousands of visitors <b>come to Costa Rica</b> each year with the hope of witnessing the <b>extraordinary phenomenon</b> of seeing <b><a href="http://www.conserveturtles.org/seaturtleinformation.php?page=overview" target="_blank">sea turtles</a> nest and lay their eggs.</b> These <b>ancient reptiles</b> have been swimming Earth’s waters for at least <b>150 million years</b>, mysteriously <b>returning to the same beach where they were born</b>.</p><p> </p><p>Costa Rica’s <b>Pacific Coast beaches</b> receive mass arrivals of female turtles by the tens of thousands, and the <b>Costa Rica Caribbean beaches</b> have <b>crucial world nesting sites</b>. Of the <a href="http://www.conserveturtles.org/seaturtleinformation.php?page=species_world" target="_blank">seven species of sea turtles</a> that exist on the planet, <b>four of them nest on the beaches of the Costa Rica Caribbean Coast</b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008913065,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008913065,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="269" alt="9008913065?profile=original" /></a> </p><p><a href="http://www.costarica-nationalparks.com/tortugueronationalpark.html" target="_blank">Tortuguero National Park</a> and its neighboring beaches of the <b>northern Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica</b> are recognized as the <b>Western Hemisphere’s most important nesting site</b> for endangered <b>Green Sea Turtles</b> (<i>Chelonia mydas</i>); and are a major nesting site for the critically endangered <b>Leatherback</b> (<i>Dermochelys coriacea</i>), <b>Hawksbill</b> (<i>Eretmochelys imbricata</i>), and <b>Loggerhead</b> (<i>Caretta caretta</i>) sea turtles.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008913470,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008913470,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="9008913470?profile=original" /></a> </p><p>Between the Caribbean port city of <b>Limon</b> and the <b>Tortuguero National Park</b> is the <b><a href="http://www.costaricainfolink.com/en/pacuare-matina-forest-reserve-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Pacuare-Matina Forest Reserve</a>.</b> This even more remote area than Tortuguero is <b>also an important nesting site for Leatherback, Green and Hawksbill sea turtles</b>.</p><p> </p><p>“<b>It is like Tortuguero 20 years ago,</b> before it was developed, with the same wetlands and lowland rainforest, lagoons, beaches, and turtles that come to nest,” noted Helberth Chavarria Madrigal, operations manager at <a href="http://www.liriolodge.com/index.php/en/" target="_blank">Lirio Lodge</a>, located next to the Pacuare-Matina Forest Reserve.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296593483,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="450" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296593483,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296593483?profile=original" /></a> </p><p>The <a href="http://www.liriolodge.com/index.php/en/home/our-history" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a> specializes in <a href="http://www.liriolodge.com/index.php/en/tours-and-packages/lodging-in-lirio-lodge" target="_blank">nature tours</a> and <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/costa-rica-educational-tourism-available-at-lirio-lodge/" target="_blank">educational tourism</a>. <b>During turtle nesting season,</b> which begins in <b>March, Lirio Lodge offers turtle tours</b> with their bilingual guides. The <b>tour is at night when turtles typically come up on the beach</b>, using the cover of darkness for protection from predators. The Costa Rica jungle lodge works with the local grassroots <b>Association of the Pacuare Community that protects the turtles</b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008914268,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="350" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008914268,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008914268?profile=original" /></a> </p><p>The <b>advantage of visiting the Pacuare-Matina Forest Reserve</b> over Tortuguero is that <b>turtle nesting season begins a few months earlier.</b> Since the only <b>place to stay is at <a href="http://www.liriolodge.com/index.php/en/" target="_blank">Lirio Lodge</a>,</b> the area also is <b>far less transited</b> than the <b>50,000 tourists who come annually to Tortuguero</b> for turtle nesting and hatching season, from June to October.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008914289,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="450" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008914289,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008914289?profile=original" /></a> </p><p>“At Lirio Lodge, we have far less people going to see the turtles. In Tortuguero, you might have 400 persons or more in one night, from all of the different lodges, out on the beach trying to see turtles. In our area, people on the tour are only people staying at our lodge,” commented Lirio Lodge co-owner Leo Jones.</p><p> </p><p>For information on vacation packages, <a href="http://www.liriolodge.com/index.php/en/contact-us/one-day-tour-to-tortuguero-canals-and-lirio-lodge" target="_blank">contact Lirio Lodge</a>.</p><p> </p><p><b>Article by <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+ShannonFarley/posts" target="_blank">Shannon Farley</a><br /></b></p><p> </p></div>Educational Tourism on Costa Rica’s Northern Caribbean Coasthttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/educational-tourism-on-costa-rica-s-northern-caribbean-coast2015-02-17T23:47:13.000Z2015-02-17T23:47:13.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><b>Educational tourism</b> is one of the <b>fastest growing areas of travel and tourism</b>. Not just for students, educational travel is about learning and being involved in community action projects while traveling and relaxing on vacation.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="http://www.liriolodge.com/index.php/en/about-us-en" target="_blank">Costa Rica</a> offers a wide variety of educational travel and volunteer opportunities</b> for people of all ages. An excellent destination for educational tourism and volunteer groups is <b><a href="http://www.liriolodge.com/index.php/en/" target="_blank">Lirio Lodge</a> by Tortuguero in Costa Rica</b>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008893072,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008893072,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008893072?profile=original" /></a><br />The <a href="http://www.liriolodge.com/index.php/en/home/our-history" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a> is located in an area of the <b>northern Caribbean Coast</b>, between the port city of <b>Limon</b> and the <b>Tortuguero National Park</b>, where the <b>famous whitewater rafting river, the Pacuare</b>, meets the <b>Caribbean Sea</b>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008893298,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008893298,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008893298?profile=original" /></a><br />“<b>It is like Tortuguero 20 years ago</b> before it was developed, with the same wetlands and lowland rainforest, lagoons, beaches and turtles that come to nest,” noted Lirio Lodge operations manager Helberth Chavarria Madrigal.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008893655,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="400" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008893655,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="347" alt="9008893655?profile=original" /></a><br />The closest <b>community of Pacuare Sur</b> (South Pacuare) is tiny with maybe 100 persons in residence. The area is surrounded by water between the ocean, the Pacuare River and the immense Mother of God Lagoon (named after the “Madre de Dios” river that forms it).</p><p> </p><p>“<b>The community here is very poor. There is no electricity</b>. There is only one classroom with one professor for 10 students, each in different grades. And this one professor must give classes to all of them. He has to travel 25 kilometers each way every day to teach; one hour by bus and 15 minutes by boat each way,” Chavarria explained.</p><p> </p><p><b>Resources</b> in the community are <b>precious and meager</b>, he said. For this reason, <b>Lirio Lodge focuses on educational tourism</b> to bring student groups to the Costa Rica jungle lodge both <b>to experience and learn about the amazing nature of the area</b>, and to <b>contribute to the community</b> with betterment projects.</p><p> </p><p>“When groups ask us for volunteer projects, we try to help the community and the school as much as we can,” said Chavarria.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008894070,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008894070,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008894070?profile=original" /></a><br />Lirio Lodge primarily receives <b>groups of university students</b> who are <b>in Costa Rica on language study programs</b> for several months. The students <b>come to the lodge on weekends to do community work</b>. Among the <b>community improvements</b> educational tourism students have made are: building a dining room for the school, constructing dry pathways above the swamp mud to the school entrance, creating gardens, cleaning up trash, building a new bathroom for the school, and improving the school’s water storage and usage.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008894660,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008894660,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008894660?profile=original" /></a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lirio-Lodge/288140017889829?fref=ts" target="_blank">Lirio Lodge</a> offers <a href="http://www.liriolodge.com/index.php/en/tours-and-packages/detox-tortuguero-canals-one-day-tour" target="_blank">one-day tours</a>, and a <a href="http://www.liriolodge.com/index.php/en/tours-and-packages/lodging-in-lirio-lodge" target="_blank">two-day-one-night package</a> with boat and hiking tours, lodging, all meals and roundtrip transport from San Jose.</p><p> </p><p><b>Article by <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+ShannonFarley/posts" target="_blank">Shannon Farley</a><br /></b></p></div>New flight to Costa Rica Caribbean Coast openshttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/new-flight-to-costa-rica-caribbean-coast-opens2014-11-27T19:21:40.000Z2014-11-27T19:21:40.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296592454,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296592454,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="543" alt="9296592454?profile=original" /></a>Now <b>getting to the South Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica will be easier than ever</b> with a <b>new 30-minute flight between San Jose and Limon on <a href="http://www.natureair.com/" target="_blank">Nature Air</a></b>.</p><p> </p><p><b>Starting Dec. 1</b>, <b>travelers to Costa Rica</b> can fly from <b>San Jose</b> and the Central Valley to the Caribbean port city of <b>Limon</b> on <a href="http://www.natureair.com/limon-flights.aspx?gclid=CIquqOrLjsICFZPm7Aod9g0Ajg" target="_blank">daily flights</a> with the Costa Rican airline <b>Nature Air</b>. <b>Flights depart from the Juan Santamaria International Airport</b> by San Jose at 5:50 a.m., and arrive to the Limon airport at 6:20 a.m. Return flights depart Limon daily at 6:30 a.m. and arrive to San Jose at 7:25 a.m., with a quick stop at Tortuguero in the northern Caribbean on the way.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008892453,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="350" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008892453,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008892453?profile=original" /></a>Up until now, travelers have only had the option to get to the <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/area.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica Caribbean Coast</a> (unless visiting Tortuguero) by <b>driving Route 32</b> – a <b>four-hour drive</b> <b>from San Jose</b> that includes the often treacherous journey through the mountains of the Braulio Carrillo National Park.</p><p> </p><p>In honor of the new flight to Limon, <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Le Caméléon</a> by <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/area.html" target="_blank">Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica</a> is offering a <b>new <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/special/hotel-offers-puerto-viejo-costa-rica.html" target="_blank">vacation package</a></b>, <b>“Le Caméléon Gives You Wings.”</b> Valid from <b>Dec. 1, 2014, to Mar. 27, 2015</b>, the <b>three-night vacation package</b> includes round-trip flights on Nature Air between San Jose and Limon, ground transfers between the Limon airport and the hotel, three nights’ accommodation at Hotel Le Caméléon, breakfast daily, lunch on the first day, welcome cocktail, VIP access to the La Sula Sea Lounge, and <b>a tour to the <a href="http://www.jaguarrescue.com/" target="_blank">Jaguar Rescue Center</a></b>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008892690,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="400" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008892690,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008892690?profile=original" /></a>“Now it will be so much easier for our guests to get from the Central Valley to Hotel Le Caméléon,” said Roger Sans Feliu, Reservations Manager at Hotel Le Caméléon by Puerto Viejo. “It is only a 30-minute flight and another 30 minutes to drive from Limon to the hotel. It is now easier and more comfortable to get to Puerto Viejo, and the views are really great on the flight from San Jose to Limon!”</p><p> </p><p>Hip, modern and upscale, the <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/hotel.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica boutique hotel</a> faces one of the area’s most beautiful beaches, <b>Playa Cocles</b>. Le Caméléon features <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/rooms.html" target="_blank">ultra-chic rooms</a>, beautiful tropical architecture, and lush jungle gardens. The elegant <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/restaurant.html" target="_blank">Le Numu Restaurant & Bar</a> is one of the area’s top restaurants; and the <b>La Sula Sea Lounge beach club</b> is the place to hang out by the shore and meet friends for a cool drink or a light meal.</p><p> </p><p><b>Article by <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+ShannonFarley/posts" target="_blank">Shannon Farley</a><br /></b></p></div>"Sloth Week' on Animal Planet Spotlights Caribbean Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/sloth-week-spotlights-caribbean-costa-rica2014-06-19T22:03:36.000Z2014-06-19T22:03:36.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296587472,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="300" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296587472,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296587472?profile=original" /></a>The slow-moving <b>sloths of Costa Rica</b> are streaking into the limelight with their own <b>weeklong online special program</b>. Starting <b>June 20, 2014, <a href="http://www.animalplanet.com/tv-shows/meet-the-sloths" target="_blank">Animal Planet</a> and</b> <a href="http://animalist.com/slothweek" target="_blank">Animalist</a> will stream daily footage from the <a href="http://www.slothsanctuary.com/" target="_blank">Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica</a>.</p><p> </p><p>Cute and cuddly <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/blog-category/358-meet-the-sloths-on-costa-rica-s-caribbean-coast.html" target="_blank">sloths of the Caribbean Costa Rica</a> have been in the spotlight since last year’s program <b>“Meet the Sloths” aired on Animal Planet</b>. The two-hour special program will <b>run again on June 21 at 8:00 a.m. EST</b>. The story follows a year in the lives of five sloths at the Sloth Sanctuary.</p><p> </p><p>Located on the <b>Southern Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica</b>, just south of Limon on the way to <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/area.html" target="_blank">Puerto Viejo</a>, the <b>Sloth Sanctuary</b> rescues, protects and rehabilitates sloths. You can see sloths in person on a <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/activities/331-sloth-sanctuary.html" target="_blank">sloth tour</a>.</p><p> </p><p><b>“Sloth Week” will show six days</b> of sloth-related Web content, sloth facts, the most adorable and interesting <b>sloth videos and live cams</b>. “So much sloth greatness, we gave them their own week,” reports Animal Planet.</p><p></p><p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/uXdwXu6kbBg?wmode=opaque" frameborder="0"></iframe></p><p></p><p>You can visit the <b>Sloth Sanctuary</b> on a <a href="http://www.slothsanctuary.com/sloth-tours/buttercup-tour/" target="_blank">fun half-day tour</a>. Tuesday through Sunday (closed Monday), tours start at 8:00 a.m. and go every hour on the hour; the last tour is at 2:00 p.m.</p><p></p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008851662,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008851662,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008851662?profile=original" /></a>Where to stay:</b> When visiting the <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+Lecameleonhotelpuerto-viejo-costa-rica-hotel/posts" target="_blank">southern Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica</a>, the place to stay is <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Le Caméléon</a>. The vibrant <b>Costa Rica boutique hotel</b> fronts the dazzling, turquoise Caribbean Sea and golden sand of <b>Playa Cocles</b> – one of the area’s most beautiful beaches. Hip, modern and upscale, Le Caméléon features ultra-chic rooms, beautiful tropical architecture, and lush jungle gardens. The elegant <a href="http://www.lecameleonhotel.com/restaurant.html" target="_blank">Le Numu Restaurant & Bar</a> is one of the area’s top restaurants; and the newly remodeled <b>La Sula Sea Lounge</b> beach club is the place to hang out by the shore and meet friends for a cool drink or a light meal.</p><p><b> </b></p><p><b>Article by Shannon Farley</b></p></div>Christmas in Costa Rica is for the birds!https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/christmas-in-costa-rica-is-for-the-birds2013-12-18T15:08:05.000Z2013-12-18T15:08:05.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://profimercadeo.com/test/club/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Trogon-at-Veragua-Rainforest-photo-by-Daniel-Torres-203x300.jpg"><img class="align-left" src="http://profimercadeo.com/test/club/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Trogon-at-Veragua-Rainforest-photo-by-Daniel-Torres-203x300.jpg?width=203" width="203" alt="Trogon-at-Veragua-Rainforest-photo-by-Daniel-Torres-203x300.jpg?width=203" /></a>Christmas is a special time of year for birders</strong>. Equipped with binoculars, bird guides and checklists, <strong>avid birders throughout the Americas</strong> brave snow, wind, rain, or maybe even tropical sun, to take part in the <a title="Christmas Bird Count by U.S. Audubon Society" href="http://birds.audubon.org/christmas-bird-count" target="_blank"><strong>Christmas Bird Count</strong></a>. The longest running “Citizen Science survey” in the world, <strong>the annual Christmas Bird Count provides critical data on bird population trends</strong>. The <a class="zem_slink" title="National Audubon Society" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=40.7292258056,-74.005211&spn=0.01,0.01&q=40.7292258056,-74.005211%20%28National%20Audubon%20Society%29&t=h" target="_blank">National Audubon Society</a> of the USA and other organizations use data collected in this wildlife census to assess the health of bird populations, and to assist in conservation efforts.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>The Christmas Bird Count began more than 100 years ago</strong> on Christmas Day by the U.S. Audubon Society. This year, the <strong>114<sup>th</sup> annual Christmas Bird Count</strong> in the United States is from Dec. 14 through Jan. 5. <strong><a class="zem_slink" title="Costa Rica" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.93333333333,-84.0833333333&spn=10.0,10.0&q=9.93333333333,-84.0833333333%20%28Costa%20Rica%29&t=h" target="_blank">Costa Rica</a> also participates in the <a title="Schedule of Costa Rica Christmas Bird Count 2013" href="http://birdingcraft.com/wordpress/2013/11/21/a-november-update-on-birding-in-costa-rica-and-2013-christmas-bird-counts/" target="_blank">Christmas Bird Count</a></strong>. This year, the count began Dec. 1 at Selva Verde Lodge in Sarapiqui, and ends Jan. 5 at Maquenque near San Carlos, with nine other counts in between at locations around the country.<a target="_blank" href="http://profimercadeo.com/test/club/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Barn-swallow-at-Veragua-Rainforest-photo-by-Daniel-Torres.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://profimercadeo.com/test/club/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Barn-swallow-at-Veragua-Rainforest-photo-by-Daniel-Torres-271x300.jpg?width=161" width="161" alt="Barn-swallow-at-Veragua-Rainforest-photo-by-Daniel-Torres-271x300.jpg?width=161" /></a></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Last year, the highest number of birds counted in Central America was in <a title="2012 Costa Rica Christmas Bird Count a huge success" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/hot-news/christmas-bird-count-record-soars-in-costa-rica-for-2012/" target="_blank">Costa Rica</a></strong>. A record number of <strong>417 different bird species, and 12,665 individual birds</strong>, were identified in a 24-hour period on Dec. 5, 2012 in the <strong>Central Caribbean by Veragua Rainforest</strong>. Covering 19 routes, 67 ornithologists, naturalist guides, university students and bird enthusiasts participated in the count.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" href="http://profimercadeo.com/test/club/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Central-American-Pygmy-Owl-at-Veragua-photo-by-Patrick-ODonnell.jpg"><img class="align-left" src="http://profimercadeo.com/test/club/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Central-American-Pygmy-Owl-at-Veragua-photo-by-Patrick-ODonnell.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Central-American-Pygmy-Owl-at-Veragua-photo-by-Patrick-ODonnell.jpg?width=300" /></a>According to avid <strong>Costa Rica birder and blogger</strong>, Patrick O’Donnell, local birders rave about the <strong>excellent forest filled with <a title="Birders rave about bird watching at Veragua Rainforest" href="http://birdingcraft.com/wordpress/2011/12/12/the-veragua-rainforest-christmas-count-part-one/" target="_blank">lowland bird species at Veragua Rainforest</a></strong>. O’Donnell’s <a title="Costa Rica Living and Birding Blog" href="http://birdingcraft.com/wordpress/" target="_blank"><strong>Costa Rica Living and Birding blog</strong></a> provides a wealth of information about birding in Costa Rica.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a title="Veragua Rainforest and Eco-Adventure in Costa Rica" href="http://www.veraguarainforest.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Veragua Rainforest Eco-Adventure</strong></a>, located in the <a class="zem_slink" title="Cordillera de Talamanca" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.48408333333,-83.4886666667&spn=0.1,0.1&q=9.48408333333,-83.4886666667%20%28Cordillera%20de%20Talamanca%29&t=h" target="_blank">Talamanca Mountain Range</a> about an hour inland from <strong>Costa Rica’s Caribbean <a class="zem_slink" title="Port of Limón" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_of_Lim%C3%B3n" target="_blank">port of Limón</a></strong>, is an area of breathtaking tropical rainforest. It borders the <strong>La Amistad (“Friendship”) International Park</strong>, the largest nature reserve in Central America. Veragua Rainforest is an <strong>excellent one-day tour</strong> in the Costa Rica rainforest.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><b>Travel Tip:</b> Download the <a title="Costa Rica Birds Field Guide app" href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/costa-rica-birds-field-guide/id568719936?mt=8" target="_blank"><b>Costa Rica Birds Field Guide</b></a>, a full-featured birding field guide for Costa Rica, available on iTunes.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Article by <a title="Follow writer Shannon Farley on Google+" href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+ShannonFarley/posts" target="_blank">Shannon Farley</a></strong></p></div>Costa Rica butterflies share evolution strategies for survivalhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/costa-rica-butterflies-share-evolution-strategies-for-survival2014-01-08T14:41:16.000Z2014-01-08T14:41:16.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p style="text-align:justify;">In the case of butterflies, it pays to look like your neighbor.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">New information about <strong>long-winged butterflies in Costa Rica</strong> is showing how the importance of “mimicry” and the<a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Two-species-of-Heliconius-butterflies-image-by-Marcus-Kronforst-University-of-Chicago.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Two-species-of-Heliconius-butterflies-image-by-Marcus-Kronforst-University-of-Chicago-300x225.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Two-species-of-Heliconius-butterflies-image-by-Marcus-Kronforst-University-of-Chicago-300x225.jpg?width=300" /></a> butterflies’ natural promiscuity has led to interbreeding and the <strong>creation of new species that look very much alike</strong>, according to a <a title="Study about butterfly evolution" href="http://www.latimes.com/science/sciencenow/la-sci-sn-butterflies-evolution-20131030,0,4630140.story#axzz2jh8miaPJ" target="_blank">study led by University of Chicago evolutionary biologist, Marcus R. Kronforst</a>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">“In evolutionary biology, mimicry is the similarity of one species to another which protects one or both.This similarity can be in appearance, behavior, sound, scent and location, with the mimics found in similar places to their models,” notes <a title="Wikipedia definition of Mimicry" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mimicry" target="_blank">Wikipedia</a>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Mimicry, or looking like another, is important to butterflies</strong> to avoid being a tasty snack for birds and other predators. If a tasty or non-venomous butterfly is confused with a bad-tasting or toxic butterfly, both species will go unmolested and be more likely to survive.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Butterfly-mimics-Monarch-on-left-and-Viceroy-on-right.gif"><img class="align-left" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Butterfly-mimics-Monarch-on-left-and-Viceroy-on-right-300x157.gif?width=300" width="300" alt="Butterfly-mimics-Monarch-on-left-and-Viceroy-on-right-300x157.gif?width=300" /></a>Take, for example, the <strong>Viceroy butterfly</strong> (<em><a class="zem_slink" title="Viceroy (butterfly)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viceroy_%28butterfly%29" target="_blank">Limenitis archippus</a></em>) which <a title="Mimicry between monarchs and viceroy butterflies" href="http://www.learnaboutbutterflies.com/Survival%20Strategies%204.htm" target="_blank"><strong>mimics the Monarch Butterfly</strong></a> (<em><a class="zem_slink" title="Monarch butterfly" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monarch_butterfly" target="_blank">Danaus plexippus</a></em>) in shared orange and black coloration patterns. While the Viceroy butterfly isn’t incredibly appetizing to birds, it is not highly toxic like the Monarch; yet because they look alike, predators tend to leave both alone.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The long-winged <strong><em><a class="zem_slink" title="Heliconius" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heliconius" target="_blank">Heliconius</a></em> butterflies</strong> <strong>are the species in the study</strong> whipping up interest. The butterflies, including one known as the <strong>“<a class="zem_slink" title="Costa Rica" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.93333333333,-84.0833333333&spn=10.0,10.0&q=9.93333333333,-84.0833333333%20%28Costa%20Rica%29&t=h" target="_blank">Costa Rican</a> postman,”</strong> have bright orange markings on their wings and are toxic. Promiscuous habits have led to the creation of up to <strong>45 new species</strong> from the butterflies’ interbreeding, scientists report. The interesting thing the geneticists have discovered is that all of the species resemble one another (<a class="zem_slink" title="Müllerian mimicry" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C3%BCllerian_mimicry" target="_blank">Mullerian mimicry</a>) with slight differences, which has led to shared survival tactics by baffling predators into avoiding a range of wing patterns.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Butterfly-Heliconius.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Butterfly-Heliconius-150x150.jpg?width=150" width="150" alt="Butterfly-Heliconius-150x150.jpg?width=150" /></a>Approximately <strong>17,500 species of butterflies exist in the world</strong>, according to the Smithsonian Institute. <strong>Costa Rica is home to about 1,251 species of butterflies and at least 8,000 species of moths</strong>, cites Wikipedia.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The <strong><a title="Butterfly garden at Veragua Rainforest in Costa Rica" href="http://www.veraguarainforest.com/butterflygarden.html" target="_blank">Butterfly Garden</a> at <a title="Veragua Rainforest Research & Adventure park in Costa Rica" href="http://www.veraguarainforest.com/" target="_blank">Veragua Rainforest Research & Adventure</a>, in Costa Rica’s Caribbean rainforest</strong>, is inhabited by some of the most colorful butterflies in the world, including the noteworthy <em>Heliconius</em> butterflies. A tour at the 1,300 hectare (3,212 acre) <strong>biology research center and adventure park</strong> lets you walk through an immense live butterfly garden, plus visit a <a title="Scientific research lab at Veragua Rainforest, Costa Rica" href="http://www.veraguarainforest.com/research.html" target="_blank">research lab</a> where staff scientists study the behavior and lifestyle of these vivid flying insects.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Butterly-garden-at-Veragua-Rainforest.jpg"><img class="align-left" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Butterly-garden-at-Veragua-Rainforest-300x147.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Butterly-garden-at-Veragua-Rainforest-300x147.jpg?width=300" /></a>Veragua Rainforest Research & Adventure is located in the <a class="zem_slink" title="Cordillera de Talamanca" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.48408333333,-83.4886666667&spn=0.1,0.1&q=9.48408333333,-83.4886666667%20%28Cordillera%20de%20Talamanca%29&t=h" target="_blank">Talamanca Mountain Range</a> about an hour inland from <strong>Costa Rica’s Caribbean port of Limón</strong>. Veragua Rainforest is an <strong>excellent one-day tour in the Costa Rica rainforest</strong>. Attractions include wildlife exhibits and science labs, an aerial tram, canopy zipline tour, rainforest hiking trails, a river with waterfalls, and a restaurant, café and souvenir shop.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Article by <a title="Follow writer Shannon Farley on Google+" href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+ShannonFarley/posts" target="_blank">Shannon Farley</a></strong></p></div>