watching - Blogs - Tripatini2024-03-29T09:50:22Zhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/feed/tag/watchingGet the Best Shots of Birds in Alaskahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/get-the-best-shot-birds-in-alaska2021-05-24T11:30:00.000Z2021-05-24T11:30:00.000ZAlaskan Gamefisherhttps://tripatini.com/members/AlaskanGamefisher<div><p>Alaska is a beautiful place for bird watching particularly in Anchorage you will find many beautiful birds. Encircled by the wild, Anchorage offers a universe of chances for<a href="https://www.alaskangamefisher.com/alaska-bird-watching/" target="_blank">bird watching in Alaska in a biological setting</a>. The skies of Alaska are loaded up with birds. Timberlands reverberation with their calls and tune. Also, shores reverberate with species settling for summer close to the rich Alaska waters. Almost 500 types of birds have been distinguished in Alaska – enough activity for even the most segregating birder.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009542084,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009542084,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-full" width="586" height="373" alt="9009542084?profile=original" /></a></p><p>Hawks and ravens are available all year and have profound connections to Alaska Native legend. In excess of twelve settling sets of bald eagles call Anchorage home; sharp-looked at guests can spot them rising above the city looking for salmon or other prey. Inquisitive, loquacious, and surprisingly naughty, ravens are frequently found two by two drifting energetically in airflows or in bunches congregating around there.</p><p>Many birds run to Anchorage as a feature of yearly movements. Puffins, kittiwakes, and different seabirds swarm the rough precipices of Prince William Sound and Resurrection Bay. They are frequently spotted from the deck of ice sheets and natural life travels. Jetty lakes and tidal ponds are a well-known visit for swans, pintails, canvasbacks, and Arctic terns, among others.</p></div>Where to Find the Best Brown Bears in Alaska?https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/where-to-find-the-best-brown-bears-in-alaska2021-03-17T13:21:28.000Z2021-03-17T13:21:28.000ZBear Viewing in Alaskahttps://tripatini.com/members/BearViewinginAlaska<div><p>If you need to see bears, Alaska is about the most secures places for fill fledged bear watching. For the <a href="http://bearviewinginalaska.com/" target="_blank">best bear watching in Alaska</a>, you can either plan your trip by own or may take the help of professional bear viewing tours to make it there. There are around 30,000 brown colored bears or grizzlies’ lives in America's northernmost state or in other words 98% of the bear population of America lives in Alaska. Furthermore, there also resides around 100,000 mountain bears. At that point there are polar bears, with around 5,000 can be seen in Alaska's Arctic coastline.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009531080,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009531080,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" width="562" height="424" alt="9009531080?profile=original" /></a></p><p>In Glacier Bay National Park in southeast Alaska, you can see the glimpse of polar bears, which are the sub-species of mountain bears, with gleaming or silver hair. Also, in the Kodiak Archipelago, you can find the Kodiak bear, which is the greatest of the grizzlies. For exuberant Alaskan brown bear viewing, you can head to Alaskan national parks like Denali and Wrangell St Elias, Kenai Peninsula, and Lake Clark alongside Kodiak Island.</p><p>You can see bears in Alaska on an expert photography tour drove by master naturalist guides. You can see them rummaging for mollusks on the seashore from the perception deck of a journey transport going up Tracy Arm fjord. You can also see them climbing the boondocks in Denali. Furthermore, in the Arctic in Kaktovik, you can see polar bears continually on the edges, searching for whale meat. The Frozen North is a bear country, however, if you need to boost your odds of seeing them, and does it securely, at that point join a coordinated visit.</p></div>Bird Watching in Uttarakhandhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/bird-watching-in-uttarakhand-india2019-09-08T15:03:35.000Z2019-09-08T15:03:35.000ZBizare Xpeditionhttps://tripatini.com/members/BizareXpedition<div><h1 class="iv iw bm bc bb fx ix iy iz ja jb jc jd je jf jg jh" style="text-align:left;">1) Corbett National Park</h1><p id="aa9a" class="ji jj bm bc jk b jl jm jn jo jp jq jr js jt ju jv" style="text-align:left;">At Corbett; Dhikala, Bijrani Zone, Marchula, Mohaan Kumeria, Mongoli Valley, Ramganga River, Kosi Barrage & Sitabani are identified areas for bird watching. Common found birds: The Bird which are found in the Corbett National park & adjoining regions are Great Slaty Woodpecker, Scally Bellied Woodpecker, Black-naped Green Woodpecker, Lesser Woodpecker, Stork Billed & Crested Kingfisher, Himalayan Pied Kingfisher, Lesser Pied Kingfisher, White Breasted Kingfisher, White-Throated Laughing thrush, White Crested Laughing Thrush, Long Tailed Broadbill, Red-Breasted Parakeet, Kaleej Pheasant, Indian Pied Hornbill, Common Green Magpie, Puff Throated Babblers, Blue Tailed Minla, Little & Spotted Forktails, Lineated Barbet, Blue Throated Barbet, Golden Oriole, Brown Dipper The Ramganga & Kosi Barrage are also rich in bird species like raptor, vulture, river Lapwings, Ducks, Manganese, Egrets, waterfowls, Herons. The birds like Pallas Fishing, Red-Headed Vulture, Hawk Eagle, Crested Hawk-eagle, Himalayan Grey-headed Fishing Eagle, Black Eagle, Golden eagle are the most commonly found birds.</p><p id="b3dd" class="ji jj bm bc jk b jl jw jn jx jp jy jr jz jt ka jv" style="text-align:left;"><strong class="jk kb"><em class="kc">Best time for bird watching: November till March.</em></strong></p><p></p><div class="kj kk dh kl x"><div class="v w kd"><div class="kq l dh kr"><div class="ks l"><div class="dq km dj n o kn x io ko kp"></div><img alt="" class="lc ld dj n o kn x kw" src="https://miro.medium.com/max/1152/1*vAxs8rts8oaWj5kqw87ecw.png" width="451" height="300" /></div></div></div></div><p></p><h1 id="a6d0" class="iv iw bm bc bb fx ix iy iz ja jb jc jd je jf jg jh" style="text-align:left;">2) Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary:</h1><p id="c2ad" class="ji jj bm bc jk b jl jm jn jo jp jq jr js jt ju jv" style="text-align:left;">The areas for bird watching in Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary are Chopta Trek, Mandal, Kanchula Kharak, Tunganath, Duggalbitta, Mukkumath where more than 200 bird species are found. Common found birds: Great Barbet, Green Backed Tit, Black Lored Tit, red Headed Tit, White Browned Tit, Rusty Cheeked Scimitar Babbler, Green Tailed Sunbirds, Grey Headed Flycatcher, Blue Throated Flycatcher, White-tailed Nuthatch, Common Cuckoo, Black Bulbul, Grey Winged Blackbird, Rufous Sibia, Spotted Laughing Thrush, Streaked Striated Laughing Thrush, Variegated Laughing Thrush, Blue Whistling Thrush, Blue Fronted Redstart, White Colored Blackbirds, Greater long Billed Thrush, Himalayan Pied Woodpecker, Rufous Bellied Pied Woodpecker, Slaty headed Parakeet, Yellow Billed Blue Magpie, Bar Throated Minlas, Common Hill Partridge, Indian Pied Hornbill & etc.</p><p class="ji jj bm bc jk b jl jw jn jx jp jy jr jz jt ka jv" style="text-align:left;"><strong class="jk kb"><em class="kc">Best time for bird watching: October till June.</em></strong></p><p></p><div class="kj kk dh kl x"><div class="v w kd"><div class="kq l dh kr"><div class="ks l"><div class="dq km dj n o kn x io ko kp"></div><img alt="" class="lc ld dj n o kn x kw" src="https://miro.medium.com/max/1152/1*70i6NDWa74Zeo42PXKJfZw.png" width="450" height="300" /></div></div></div></div><p></p><h1 class="iv iw bm bc bb fx ix iy iz ja jb jc jd je jf jg jh" style="text-align:left;">3) Mussorie — Aglar Valley — Suakholi — Devalsari — Thatyur — Dhanaulti:</h1><p id="d404" class="ji jj bm bc jk b jl jm jn jo jp jq jr js jt ju jv" style="text-align:left;">The Bird watching trail of Mussorie, Aglar Valley, Devalsari and Dhanaulti, boasts more than 200 bird species. Common found Birds: Slaty headed Parakeet, Brown streaked Laughing Thrush, Striated Laughing Thrush, Rufous Chinned Laughing Thrush, Blue Whistling Thrush, Black-Throated Thrush, Grey Headed Flycatcher, Verditer Flycatcher, Common Hill Partridge, Chukar Partridge, Black Partridge, Cinereous Vulture, Himalayan Griffon Vulture, Blue Throated Barbet, Black-faced Warbler, Himalayan Tree-creeper, Khalij Pheasants, Red-Billed Blue Magpie, Common Green Magpie, Mrs Gould Sunbird, Purple Sunbird, Rufous Shrike, Plumbeous & White Capped Redstarts, White Breasted Kingfisher, Scaly Bellied Green Woodpecker, Black Naped Pied Woodpecker, Brown Fronted Pied Woodpecker, Grey Headed Flycatcher, White Browned Blue Flycatcher, Rufous Tailed Flycatcher, Green Backed Tit, Red-headed tit, etc.</p><p id="b553" class="ji jj bm bc jk b jl jw jn jx jp jy jr jz jt ka jv" style="text-align:left;"><strong class="jk kb"><em class="kc">Best time for bird watching: October till May.</em></strong></p><p></p><div class="kj kk dh kl x"><div class="v w kd"><div class="kq l dh kr"><div class="ks l"><div class="dq km dj n o kn x io ko kp"></div><img alt="" class="lc ld dj n o kn x kw" src="https://miro.medium.com/max/1152/1*hk2455Q1mEEb7o77lzqvhg.png" width="450" height="300" /></div></div></div></div><p></p><h1 class="iv iw bm bc bb fx ix iy iz ja jb jc jd je jf jg jh" style="text-align:left;">4) Nainital- Sattal-Pangot & Kilbury</h1><p class="ji jj bm bc jk b jl jm jn jo jp jq jr js jt ju jv" style="text-align:left;">Nainital’s famous tourist spot like Snow Viewpoint, Tiffin Top, Hanumangarhi & the adjacent renowned places like Sattal, Pangot (Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve) & Kilbury, houses more than 200 bird’s species. Common found birds: Streaked Laughing thrush, Chestnut-headed Laughing thrush, Spotted–Laughing Thrush, Red-Headed Vulture, Lammergeyser, Rufous Bellied Niltava, Himalayan-Griffon, Rufous-breasted and Black-throated Accentors, Black-headed Jay, Eurasian Jay, Tawny Fish Owl, Ultramarine Flycatcher, Oriental Turtle dove, Spotted Dove, Verditer Flycatcher, Little Pied Flycatcher, Himalayan Barbet, Great Barbet, Blue Throated Barbet, Chestnut Bellied Nuthatch, White-Tailed Nuthatch, Grey Crowned Prinia, Blue Winged Minla, Red-Billed Blue Magpie, Spotted & Slaty Backed Forktail, Long-Billed Thrushes, Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Scaly bellied Woodpecker, Himalayan Woodpecker, Rufous-throated Hill Partridge, Kalij Pheasant, Koklass Pheasant, Cheer-Pheasant, Plum Headed Parakeet & many more.</p><p id="c872" class="ji jj bm bc jk b jl jw jn jx jp jy jr jz jt ka jv" style="text-align:left;"><strong class="jk kb"><em class="kc">Best time for bird watching: October till June</em></strong></p><p></p><div class="kj kk dh kl x"><div class="v w kd"><div class="kq l dh kr"><div class="ks l"><div class="dq km dj n o kn x io ko kp"></div><img alt="" class="lc ld dj n o kn x kw" src="https://miro.medium.com/max/1152/1*yFCgIatZTFvnCemQhb1RFg.png" width="450" height="300" /></div></div></div></div><p></p><h1 class="iv iw bm bc bb fx ix iy iz ja jb jc jd je jf jg jh" style="text-align:left;">5) Almora-Binsar-Mukteshwar</h1><p id="d690" class="ji jj bm bc jk b jl jm jn jo jp jq jr js jt ju jv" style="text-align:left;">The entire circuit of Almora — Binsar & Mukteshwar, is counted as one of rich avifauna Species habitat in Asia and Binsar has been categorized as important bird area by Birdlife International with around 500 bird species. The significant bird species in the Almora — Binsar & Mukteshwar are Fork tails, Woodpeckers, Pheasant, Partridges, Redstart, Flycatcher, Barbets, Laughing Thrush, Thrushes, Tree-creepers, warblers, finch, tit, Hornbill, Magpie, kingfishers, raptors &, etc. Common found birds: Great Pied Hornbill, Common Green Magpie, Kalij-Pheasant, Cheer-Pheasant, Koklass-Pheasant, Hill-Partridge, Rufous-throated Partridge, White-capped Redstart, Blue-capped Redstart, Oriental Turtle Dove, Ultramarine Flycatcher, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Verditer Flycatcher, Rufous Sibia,Great Barbet, Streaked Laughing Thrush, White-throated Laughing Thrush, Blue whistling Thrush, Scaly Thrush, Himalayan pied Kingfisher, Green Backed Tit, Black-Throated tit, Breasted Green Finch, Common Rosefinch, Grey Slaty Woodpecker, Grey Headed Woodpecker, Brown Fronted Woodpecker, Lesser Yellow-naped Woodpecker.</p><p class="ji jj bm bc jk b jl jw jn jx jp jy jr jz jt ka jv" style="text-align:left;"><strong class="jk kb"><em class="kc">Best time for bird watching: October till June.</em></strong></p><p></p><div class="kj kk dh kl x"><div class="v w kd"><div class="kq l dh kr"><div class="ks l"><div class="dq km dj n o kn x io ko kp"></div><img alt="" class="lc ld dj n o kn x kw" src="https://miro.medium.com/max/1152/1*WQijJaNG6161Gqn1-bpOpg.png" width="450" height="300" /></div></div></div></div><p></p><h1 class="iv iw bm bc bb fx ix iy iz ja jb jc jd je jf jg jh" style="text-align:left;">6) Munsyari/ Munsiari and Askot Wildlife Sanctuary:</h1><p class="ji jj bm bc jk b jl jm jn jo jp jq jr js jt ju jv" style="text-align:left;">Munsyari (located on the bank of Gori Ganga river) and Askot Wild Life Sanctuary, both are important bird watching areas declared by BNHS. It houses more than 300 bird species Common found birds: Snow Partridge, Hill Partridge, Koklass pheasant, Spotted Laughing Thrush, Streaked Laughing Thrush, Little Pied Flycatcher, Long-Billed and Long-Tailed Thrushes, Mrs. Gould Sunbird, Green-tailed Sunbird, Bearded Vulture, Robin Accentor Golden eagles, Great Crested Tit, White-Throated Tit, Yellow Breasted Green Finch, Red-headed Bullfinch, Black Redstart & many more</p><p class="ji jj bm bc jk b jl jw jn jx jp jy jr jz jt ka jv" style="text-align:left;"><strong class="jk kb"><em class="kc">Best time for bird watching: March-June and October — Mid December.</em></strong></p><p></p><div class="kj kk dh kl x"><div class="v w kd"><div class="kq l dh kr"><div class="ks l"><div class="dq km dj n o kn x io ko kp"></div><img alt="" class="lc ld dj n o kn x kw" src="https://miro.medium.com/max/1152/1*oHqj4DEpR8NAvzuykLBBkA.png" width="450" height="300" /></div></div></div></div><p></p><p class="ji jj bm bc jk b jl jw jn jx jp jy jr jz jt ka jv" style="text-align:left;"><a href="https://www.bizarexpedition.com/Birding" class="ci ce kx ky kz la" target="_blank"><strong class="jk kb"><em class="kc">Bird Watching Tour Package 2019</em></strong></a></p></div>10 Cool Things to Do in Monteverde, Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/monteverde-costa-rica-attractions2016-01-07T12:00:00.000Z2016-01-07T12:00:00.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008999670,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008999670,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008999670?profile=original" /></a><br /> In the <a href="http://www.natgeotraveller.co.uk/smart-travel/features/the-2016-cool-list/" target="_blank">coolest travel destination for 2016</a>, you can plan a cool vacation knowing these <b>top things to do in <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/cant-visit-costa-rica-without-seeing-monteverde-cloud-forest/" target="_blank">Monteverde, Costa Rica</a></b>.</p><p> </p><p>Monteverde is famous for its cloud forests, nature and wildlife, adrenaline-inducing zip lines and suspension bridges, and its fabulous local coffee, ice cream and cheeses. So, pack your bags and get ready for an amazing adventure in the cloud forest on <b>vacation in</b> <b>Monteverde.</b></p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009033490,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009033490,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="532" alt="9009033490?profile=original" /></a><br /> 10 Top things to do in Monteverde, Costa Rica</b></p><p><b><br /> Canopy Zipline Tours</b></p><p><br /> Monteverde boasts some of the longest, highest and scariest zip lines through the forest tree canopy. If you’re an adrenaline thrill-seeker, this adventure is for you. Try the <a href="http://www.elestablo.com/canopy-information/canopy-tour" target="_blank">Tree Top Canopy Tour</a> at El Establo Hotel; or the zip lines at <a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/canopy/selvatura/" target="_blank">Selvatura Adventure Park</a> or <a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/canopy/tour.htm" target="_blank">Sky Trek Monteverde</a> by the Santa Elena Reserve.</p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009033674,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009033674,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="427" alt="9009033674?profile=original" /></a><br /> Night Walk tour</b></p><p><br /> It’s exciting, and a little spooky, to walk around in the forest at night with all of its hidden critters. This is the time when nocturnal animals wake up, hunt and do their thing. You’ll encounter (from safe distances) snakes, spiders (like hole-dwelling tarantulas), porcupines, agoutis, opossums, tree frogs and other animals. El Establo Hotel offers a thrilling <a href="http://www.elestablo.com/canopy-information/night-walk" target="_blank">Night Walk in the Cloud Forest Tour</a>.<br /></p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009034272,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009034272,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="533" alt="9009034272?profile=original" /></a><br /> Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve<br /> <br /></b> The <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/amazing-travel-destination-monteverde-cloud-forest-reserve-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve</a> is one of Costa Rica’s most famous private reserves. Spanning six distinct ecological zones, the reserve’s 10,500 hectares (25,950 acres) protects <a href="http://www.reservamonteverde.com/fauna-english.html" target="_blank">abundant wildlife</a>. It is a <b>favorite destination for</b> <b>bird watching in Costa Rica</b> to see the more than 400 bird species found here. The best way to go is on a <b>guided hike</b> with a naturalist who has expert eyes and knowledge.</p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009021696,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009021696,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="532" alt="9009021696?profile=original" /></a><br /> Suspension and Hanging Bridges<br /> <br /></b> Scientists didn’t know this until they started climbing rainforest trees four decades ago, but about 90% of all rainforest life is found in the upper level of the forest canopy, where the sunlight is more powerful in the treetops and more species can grow. There, plants flourish and animals climb to soaring elevations to hunt for fruits and nuts. Now you can explore the amazing wonders of the forest canopy on suspension and hanging bridges. Best in the area are <a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/sky-walk.htm" target="_blank">Sky Walk</a> and <a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/canopy/selvatura/" target="_blank">Selvatura’s Treetop Walkway</a>.<br /></p><p><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009034652,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009034652,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9009034652?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/monteverde/orchid-garden/photo.htm" target="_blank"><br /> Monteverde Orchid Garden<br /> <br /></a></strong> Exquisite, delicate orchids are the largest and most diverse family of flowering plants on Earth, and are abundant in tropical Costa Rica. The <a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/monteverde.htm" target="_blank">Monteverde cloud forest in Costa Rica</a> is said to have the <b>highest diversity of orchids in the world</b>. You can see close to 500 varieties of orchids in the Monteverde Orchid Garden, including the smallest orchid in the world at just over 2 millimeters (0.08 inch) in size.<br /></p><p><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009022667,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009022667,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="550" alt="9009022667?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/reserve.htm" target="_blank"><br /> Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve<br /> <br /></a></strong> The Santa Elena Reserve is particularly special for its abundance of epiphytes, which make up 29% of the flora with 878 species, and are the richest plant life form in Monteverde. This private reserve of 765 acres (310 hectares) of cloud forest is a prime example of community cooperation for conservation. See if you can catch sight of the elusive green and red Resplendent Quetzal here.<br /></p><p><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009023501,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009023501,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="532" alt="9009023501?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/monteverde-conservation-league/" target="_blank"><br /> Children’s Eternal Rainforest<br /> <br /></a></strong> The Children’s Eternal Rainforest straddles the Continental Divide, covering 55,600 acres (22,500 hectares) of primary and secondary forest. The private reserve surrounds the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve for added conservation, and offers great hiking trails.<br /></p><p><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296609090,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296609090,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="532" alt="9296609090?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/cafe-monteverde-coffee-tour/" target="_blank"><br /> Coffee Tours<br /> <br /></a></strong> Costa Rica is known all over the world for its rich coffee. Now you can get the insider story on how that fantastic coffee is produced, and charm your friends back home with cool facts. Monteverde has a local fair trade cooperative that supplies coffee connoisseurs around the globe with the finest coffee.</p><p><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009036081,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009036081,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="383" alt="9009036081?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/monteverde-cheese-factory/" target="_blank"><br /> Monteverde Cheese Factory<br /> <br /></a></strong> Monteverde’s famous Cheese Factory dates back to 1953, when the group of <a href="http://www.elestablo.com/mont-history/quakers" target="_blank">American Quakers</a> came to the area, founded the town, and began farming dairy cattle. On this tour – full of free samples, of course – you’ll learn about the production of Monteverde’s renowned dairy products: cheeses, yogurt, ice cream, sour cream, milk and butter.<br /></p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009035884,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009035884,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="448" alt="9009035884?profile=original" /></a><br /> Wildlife and Nature Exhibits<br /> <br /></b> Various wildlife parks in Monteverde give you an in-depth experience with some of the region’s interesting animals. If you are into nature and wildlife, you’ll want to visit the <a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/monteverde/frog-pond.htm" target="_blank">Monteverde Frog Pond</a>, <a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/bat-jungle/" target="_blank">Bat Jungle</a>, and the <a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/butterfly-garden/butterfly-garden.html" target="_blank">Monteverde Butterfly Garden</a>.<br /></p><p><a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/maps/monteverde.htm" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296609452,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="617" alt="9296609452?profile=original" /><br /> Monteverde, Costa Rica<br /> <br /></a> High up in the clouds of Costa Rica, the Monteverde region is considered <b>one of the best preserved cloud forests in Central America.</b> Cloud forest is rainforest at high elevations (above 5,000 feet), where tropical warm air condenses into persistent fog, mist and constant dripping moisture.<br /></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009037261,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009037261,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009037261?profile=original" /></a></p><p><a href="http://www.elestablo.com/rooms-rates/deluxe" target="_blank"><br /> Where to stay in Monteverde, Costa Rica<br /> <br /></a> Make your trip to the world-famous Monteverde cloud forest unforgettable with a <b>stay at</b> <strong><a href="http://www.elestablo.com/" target="_blank">El Establo Mountain Hotel</a></strong>, one of the <b>most luxurious hotels in the region</b>. Comfortable and well-appointed rooms feature private balconies and patios with <b>magnificent views</b> across the Monteverde forest to the Nicoya Gulf. Additional amenities include two excellent <a href="http://www.elestablo.com/restaurants/laggus" target="_blank">gourmet restaurants</a>, a <a href="http://www.elestablo.com/spa-information" target="_blank">spa</a>, two heated indoor pools, and tennis, basketball and mini soccer courts. El Establo Hotel is part of the <strong><a href="http://www.enchanting-hotels.cr/en/el-establo-mountain-hotel.html" target="_blank">Enchanting Hotels</a></strong> collection in Costa Rica.<br /></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008999496,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008999496,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008999496?profile=original" /></a></p><p><b><i> </i></b></p></div>Where to have your best gourmet meal in the cloud forest in Monteverde, Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/where-to-have-your-best-gourmet-meal-in-the-cloud-forest-in2015-10-27T23:34:59.000Z2015-10-27T23:34:59.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009004684,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009004684,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009004684?profile=original" /></a>One of the great aspects about visiting the famous <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/cant-visit-costa-rica-without-seeing-monteverde-cloud-forest/" target="_blank">cloud forest in Monteverde, Costa Rica</a>, is all of the <b>fantastic restaurants in the area</b>. Whether it is because so many international residents from all over the world live here, or that <b>Monteverde is a popular tourism destination in Costa Rica</b>, the result is the same – excellent gourmet cuisine at dozens of restaurants in the high mountain jungle.</p><p>Two of the <a href="http://www.elestablo.com/restaurants" target="_blank">best restaurants in Monteverde</a> are located at the <b>luxury <a href="http://www.elestablo.com/" target="_blank">Hotel El Establo</a></b>. Located very near the world-famous <a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/monteverde.htm" target="_blank">Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve</a>, El Establo Mountain Hotel features the casual dining restaurant <b>Las Riendas</b> and the elegant gourmet restaurant <b>Laggus</b>.</p><p></p><p><b><a href="http://www.elestablo.com/restaurants/laggus" target="_blank">Laggus Restaurant</a> at Hotel El Establo in Monteverde</b></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009004896,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009004896,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009004896?profile=original" /></a>An elegant and inviting restaurant, Laggus is an excellent option for <b>fine dining in Monteverde</b>. The formal restaurant features an <b>international gourmet menu</b>, and is <b>open only for lunch and dinner</b>.</p><p>Laggus is located in the center of Hotel El Establo’s property in a modern, two-story building with balconies on both floors. The spacious restaurant offers seating for 80 persons and a <b>top-notch wine selection</b>. From inside the dining room or out on the open decks, you can appreciate <b>spectacular views</b> of the hotel grounds, a small lake just below, the Nicoya Gulf in the distance, and on clear evenings, you are treated to <b>stunning sunsets</b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009005279,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009005279,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9009005279?profile=original" /></a>On the second floor there is a <b>lounge bar</b> area where you can relax before or after dinner, with flat-screen televisions playing music videos, or you can enjoy a game of billiards. In the high season they offer live music. There is a <b>Happy Hour every day from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.</b>, when you can enjoy two-for-one selections of drinks before you dine.</p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009006054,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009006054,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009006054?profile=original" /></a>Meals by the very talented and creative</b> <b>Costa Rican chef Oscar Vargas</b> and his team are fabulous, and well worth the trip to Monteverde alone. A recent dinner selection included an Oriental salad with shrimp and vegetables as a starter, beef with caramelized strawberries and pesto potatoes for the main course, and passion fruit cheesecake for dessert.</p><p>Restaurant hours: Monday to Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Reservations are required.</p><p></p><p><b><a href="http://www.elestablo.com/restaurants/las-riendas" target="_blank">Las Riendas Restaurant</a> at Hotel El Establo in Monteverde</b></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009006071,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009006071,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9009006071?profile=original" /></a>With a nod to the <a href="http://www.elestablo.com/mont-history/hotel-history" target="_blank">hotel’s history as a stable</a>, <b>Las Riendas Restaurant</b> – the name means “the reins” in Spanish – is easy to find right <b>by the hotel’s entrance</b> on the main road leading to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. The expansive two-room dining space seats 140 persons, and <b>can be used for <a href="http://www.elestablo.com/events" target="_blank">events</a>and wedding receptions</b>. A small, cozy “sports bar” is off to one side.</p><p>Las Riendas offers a varied <b>gourmet a la carte menu</b> in addition to <b>breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets</b>. The breakfast buffet – <b>included in guests’ rates</b> – is ample, made to fill you up for hiking in the cloud forest all day! The delicious, all-you-can-eat spread includes a variety of tropical fruits, granola, cereals, yogurt, gallo pinto (Costa Rican rice and beans), eggs, sausages, breads, jams, muffins, juices, tea and coffee.</p><p>Restaurant hours: Monday to Sunday from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008999670,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008999670,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008999670?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/" target="_blank">Monteverde, Costa Rica</a></p><p><b>Monteverde is located in Costa Rica’s Central Highlands</b>, approximately three hours from San Jose, the Arenal Volcano, and Pacific Coast beaches of Guanacaste. Monteverde’s cloud forest is renowned as <b>one of the</b> <a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/facts.htm" target="_blank">most extensive cloud forests in Central America</a>.</p><p><b>Monteverde’s climate is called “eternal spring”</b> due to its elevation range from 4,662 feet (1,440m) to 5,900 feet (1,800m) that keeps it cool and misty, with pockets of warm sunshine, rainbows and forever green.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008999468,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008999468,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008999468?profile=original" /></a><b>Where to stay in Monteverde, Costa Rica</b></p><p><strong><a href="http://www.elestablo.com/" target="_blank">El Establo Mountain Hotel</a></strong> <strong>is</strong> one of the <b>most luxurious hotels</b> in the region. More than 150 <b>comfortable and well-appointed</b> <strong><a href="http://www.elestablo.com/rooms-rates/deluxe" target="_blank">rooms</a></strong> feature either a private balcony or patio with <b>magnificent views</b> over the Monteverde forest and across to the Nicoya Gulf. On the property you can take advantage of <b>hiking and mountain biking trails</b>, the <b><a href="http://www.elestablo.com/canopy-information/canopy-tour" target="_blank">Tree Top canopy zip line tour</a>,</b> the <a href="http://www.elestablo.com/canopy-information/night-walk" target="_blank">Night Walk tour</a>, a <a href="http://www.elestablo.com/spa-information" target="_blank">Spa</a>, and two heated indoor pools in addition to other activities.</p><p>El Establo Hotel is part of the <a href="http://www.enchanting-hotels.cr/en/el-establo-mountain-hotel.html" target="_blank">Enchanting Hotels</a> collection in Costa Rica.</p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>See wild dolphins and whales in Golfo Dulce, Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/see-wild-dolphins-and-whales-in-golfo-dulce-costa-rica2015-03-16T14:35:06.000Z2015-03-16T14:35:06.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><b><i><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008930677,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008930677,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="359" alt="9008930677?profile=original" /></a>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p><p></p><p>The last time I was at <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a>, I was down at the beach cooling off from the hot sun in waist-deep <b>tranquil waters of the Golfo Dulce</b>, when suddenly there was a splash very close behind me. I turned quickly to look out toward the Gulf and was <b>greeted by</b> <b>three Bottlenose Dolphins calmly gliding about 15 feet past me</b> parallel to the beach.</p><p> </p><p>This is how it is on <b><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce</a> in southern Costa Rica</b>. During <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/whale-watching-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">whale-watching season</a>, you might see a <b>Humpback Whale mother and her calf</b> just offshore. <b>Almost always will you see dolphins</b> when you go on a <strong><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/ocean-eco-adventures/" target="_blank">boat tour of the Golfo Dulce</a></strong> or <strong><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/magical-kayaking-tour-in-costa-rica-mangrove-river/" target="_blank">kayaking in the mangroves of the Esquinas River</a></strong>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008930880,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008930880,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008930880?profile=original" /></a>This area of <b>pristine tropical wilderness</b> by the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">Osa Peninsula</a> is home to resident and migratory communities of <strong><a href="http://cetaceansgolfodulce.blogspot.com/p/species.html" target="_blank">Bottlenose Dolphins</a></strong> <i>(Tursiops truncatus)</i>, <b>Spotted Dolphins</b> <i>(Stenella attenuata)</i>, <strong><a href="http://www.costarica-scuba.com/costa-rican-spinner-dolphins/" target="_blank">Spinner Dolphins</a></strong> <i>(</i><i>Stenella longirostris)</i>, and occasionally-seen <b>False Killer Whales</b> <i>(Pseudorca crassidens)</i>. Every <b>August</b> when <strong><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/having-a-whale-of-a-time-at-playa-nicuesa-rainforest-lodge-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">whale-watching season begins in Golfo Dulce</a></strong>, <b>endangered Pacific Humpback Whales</b> migrate to Costa Rica’s warm waters to breed and give birth. <b><a href="http://cetaceansgolfodulce.blogspot.com/p/golfo-dulce.html" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce</a> is a critical habitat for marine life</b>, states the <a href="http://cetaceansgolfodulce.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Center for Cetacean Research of Costa Rica</a> (CEIC).</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296595884,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296595884,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296595884?profile=original" /></a>The Gulf’s calm and very clear jade green-blue water makes it <b>easy to see abundant marine life</b>. <b>Spotted Dolphins</b> are some of the most common dolphins to see, whether in small pods in shallow inshore waters or huge groups of up to 500 dolphins offshore in deep ocean.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008931095,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008931095,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008931095?profile=original" /></a> </p><p><b>Bottlenose Dolphins</b> stay close to river mouths, using the tidal cycles to catch fish. Golfo Dulce Bottlenose Dolphins are very social and are frequently seen in pods of two to 15 dolphins. <b>Spinner Dolphins</b>, as is obvious from the name, are known for spinning vertically out of the water on their tails.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008931690,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008931690,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="9008931690?profile=original" /></a> </p><p>When you <b>stay at <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a></b> <b>Playa Nicuesa</b> you can <b>see dolphins, whales</b> and other marine life in Golfo Dulce. The luxury <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/accommodations/" target="_blank">Costa Rica rainforest lodge</a> has its own 165-acre <b>private rainforest preserve</b> bordering the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/remarkable-rainforest-of-dreams-in-southern-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Piedras Blancas National Park</a>. It is a <b>unique <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">Costa Rica adventure travel destination</a></b> for its remote, pristine wilderness location.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008932072,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008932072,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008932072?profile=original" /></a></p></div>Northern Costa Rica welcomes back Great Green Macawshttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/northern-costa-rica-welcomes-back-great-green-macaws2014-11-27T19:32:25.000Z2014-11-27T19:32:25.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008836475,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008836475,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="400" alt="9008836475?profile=original" /></a>One of the most <b>magnificent birds in Costa Rica</b> is the <a href="http://www.birdlife.org/datazone/speciesfactsheet.php?id=1550" target="_blank">Great Green Macaw</a>.</p><p> </p><p>This time of year, <b>from October through December</b>, <b>Great Green Macaws</b> (<i>Ara ambiguus</i>) <b>return to the <a href="http://www.costaricainfolink.com/en/maquenque-wildlife-refuge-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge</a></b> in <a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/location/" target="_blank">northern Costa Rica</a> from the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indio_Ma%C3%ADz_Biological_Reserve" target="_blank">Indio Maiz Biological Reserve</a> in Nicaragua. Following their main food source of <b>mountain almond tree fruits</b> that are now in season, the Macaws return to this vital habitat of <b>rainforest and wetlands in Costa Rica</b>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008898076,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008898076,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="224" width="283" alt="9008898076?profile=original" /></a>The Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge <b>preserves nearly 150,000 acres</b> that contain <b>mountain almond trees</b> (<i>Dipteryx panamensis</i>) which <b>endangered</b> <b>Great Green Macaws use for food and nesting</b>. Formed in June 2005, the refuge is one of the biggest habitats for <b><a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/special-birds/" target="_blank">Great Green Macaws in Costa Rica</a>,</b> and is an important part of the <b>Mesoamerican Biological Corridor</b>.</p><p> </p><p><b>Great Green Macaws</b> are the <b>largest parrots native to Costa Rica</b>, along with <b>Scarlet Macaws</b>. “The Great Green Macaw is a stunning parrot with vibrant plumage,” notes <a href="http://www.arkive.org/great-green-macaw/ara-ambiguus/#src=portletV3api" target="_blank">Wildscreen Arkive.org</a>. The head, back and upper wings are bright green in color with turquoise blue on the edges of the wings and tip of the tail. There is a scarlet red patch on the tail and across the forehead; the rest of the face is bare with distinctive lines of black feathers.</p><p> </p><p>Great Green Macaws are <b>only</b> <b>found in the Atlantic wet lowlands of Central America</b>, from Honduras to northern Colombia, with a small isolated population in Ecuador. Loss of habitat and logging of mountain almond trees has largely caused their <b>population to decline to</b> <b>only between 1,800 to 2,500 mature Great Green Macaws</b> left in the world, according to <a href="http://www.birdlife.org/datazone/speciesfactsheet.php?id=1550" target="_blank">Bird Life International</a>.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296592087,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296592087,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296592087?profile=original" /></a>Visit</b> <a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/" target="_blank">Maquenque Eco-lodge</a> now in December to <b>see the Great Green Macaws</b>. The <a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/for-nature-lovers/" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a> is located <b>next to the <a href="http://www.costaricainfolink.com/en/maquenque-wildlife-refuge-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge</a></b> on <b>68 acres of tropical rainforest</b> with eight kilometers of <b>trails</b>. With <b>more than</b> <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/maquenque-eco-lodge-is-a-top-costa-rica-bird-watching-hotel/" target="_blank">410 identified species of birds</a>, Maquenque is one of the <b>top <a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/birdwatching-tour/" target="_blank">bird-watching hotels in Costa Rica</a></b>.</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>Fun River Trips in Northern Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/fun-river-trips-in-northern-costa-rica2014-08-11T13:14:57.000Z2014-08-11T13:14:57.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296587680,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296587680,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296587680?profile=original" /></a>A trip down one of Costa Rica’s rivers</b>, either by <b>raft, canoe, kayak</b> or <b>small boat</b>, is an excellent way to see some of the country’s <b>extraordinary wildlife</b>. The <b>rivers in Costa Rica</b> are as diverse as the terrain through which they flow.</p><p> </p><p>Trees that line most river banks may hold <strong>troops of monkeys, lounging iguanas and boas, and birds</strong> such as egrets, herons, ibis, ospreys, and colorful kingfishers. <strong>Crocodiles and caimans</strong> like to sun themselves on muddy banks, or may be cleverly disguised as a floating “log”. If you are lucky, you may catch sight of playful <strong>river otters</strong> or sunning <strong>river turtles</strong>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008859889,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008859889,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008859889?profile=original" /></a>In the <a href="http://www.visitcostarica.com/ict/paginas/llanuras_norte.asp" target="_blank">northern plains of Costa Rica</a>, on the banks of the San Carlos River, <a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/" target="_blank">Maquenque Eco-Lodge</a> opens the door for travelers to experience the remarkable rainforest of the <a href="http://www.costaricainfolink.com/en/maquenque-wildlife-refuge-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge</a>. Maquenque is an important region for birds in Costa Rica, and is on the migratory path for many bird species between North and South America.</p><p> </p><p>Maquenque Eco-Lodge is one of the <b>top <a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/special-birds/" target="_blank">bird-watching hotels in Costa Rica</a>,</b> with <b>more than 410 species identified</b> in the area<b>.</b> When a guest, be sure to go on a <a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/birdwatching-tour/" target="_blank">guided bird-watching tour</a> through the gardens, wetlands and forest paths.</p><p><b> </b></p><p>Also for <b>bird-watching and wildlife viewing,</b> trips on the <b>San Carlos River</b>, nearby <b>Tres Amigos River</b>, and on the <b>lagoon</b> at the <a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/for-nature-lovers/" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a> are excellent.</p><p> </p><p><a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/canoeing-on-the-lagoon/" target="_blank">Canoeing on the Lagoon</a><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008860294,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008860294,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008860294?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/canoeing-on-the-lagoon/" target="_blank"></a></p><p>Early morning is the best time to float softly on the water of the lagoon at Maquenque Eco-Lodge. Listen to the rainforest wake up with all of its amazing sights and sounds.</p><p><b> </b></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296587869,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296587869,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296587869?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/half-day-boat-trip/" target="_blank">San Carlos River Boat Tour</a></p><p>This trip explores downstream on the San Carlos River by boat. Wildlife you might see include crocodiles, river turtles, bats, herons, kingfishers, king vultures, and much more. Close to the Nicaragua border, the boat stops to visit the small village of <b>Boca Tapada San Carlos</b>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/our-safaris/" target="_blank">Tres Amigos River Float Trip</a><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008860083,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008860083,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="173" alt="9008860083?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.maquenqueecolodge.com/our-safaris/" target="_blank"></a></p><p>Paddling a raft down the serene waters of the remote Tres Amigos River, through rainforest with overhanging trees and vines, is one of the most tranquil ways to discover Costa Rica’s great beauty. Crystal clear water harbors river otters, crocodiles and river turtles, and the surrounding forest is home to Great Green Macaws, Scarlet Macaws, toucans, aquatic birds, iguanas, and several species of monkeys.</p><p><b> </b></p><p></p><p></p><p><b>Article by Shannon Farley</b></p></div>Whale Watching Season in Costa Rica Is Pure Magichttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/whale-watching-season-in-costa-rica-is-pure-magic2016-07-03T13:03:53.000Z2016-07-03T13:03:53.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009071268,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009071268,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9009071268?profile=original" /></a><br /> <b><i>In the warm waters of the Golfo Dulce in southern Costa Rica, Pacific humpback whales are about to arrive on their annual migration to mate, give birth and socialize from July to October.</i></b><br /> <br /> <br /> A spray of water erupted from the placid blue-green water a few hundred yards off the beach. The long, black and barnacled form of a mother humpback whale surfaced gracefully for air. Our little group standing on the concrete pier pointed excitedly at the huge whale. Then we gasped in delight as we suddenly caught sight of the smaller shape of her baby swimming by her side.</p><p><br /> The first time I saw a humpback whale in the wild will live in my memory forever. The special moment occurred in southern Costa Rica on the Pacific gulf of <a href="http://cetaceansgolfodulce.blogspot.com/p/golfo-dulce.html" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce</a> at <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a>, by the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/location.aspx" target="_blank">Osa Peninsula</a>. I was finishing 10 months of working at the Costa Rica eco-lodge as operations manager, and this quiet and sunny September afternoon was the final flourish to an extraordinary and life-altering experience of Costa Rica’s raw natural beauty.</p><p><br /> My colleagues and I, and the few guests staying with us at the end of tourist season, jumped into one of Nicuesa Lodge’s boats. And at a respectful distance, we cruised along with mother and baby as they slowly swam along the dark green coast thick with rainforest. Pairs of Scarlet Macaws flew overhead as sunset neared, heading to roost in tall shoreline trees for the night. The whales disappeared out of sight, and we motored back to Nicuesa’s protected cove, scarcely able to believe the magical fortune that had befallen us.</p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008991054,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008991054,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="580" alt="9008991054?profile=original" /></a><br /> Humpback Whales in Costa Rica</b></p><p><br /> After spending Southern Hemisphere summer feeding in the krill and plankton-rich icy Antarctic, <a href="http://www.whaleroute.com/migrate/" target="_blank">Pacific humpback whales</a> swim north in June to the Great Barrier Reef of Australia and as far as Costa Rica for its warm tropical waters to mate, give birth and socialize. From July to October, these southern whales hang out in the protected waters of the Golfo Dulce and the <a href="http://costa-rica-guide.com/nature/national-parks/ballena/" target="_blank">Ballena National Marine Park</a> at the north end of the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica.</p><p><br /> Both areas offer shallow coastal waters and protection from natural predators like sharks and Orcas, and are important habitats vital to the endangered species’ survival, according to the <a href="http://cetaceansgolfodulce.blogspot.com/p/species.html" target="_blank">Center for Cetacean Research of Costa Rica</a> (CEIC). Northern Pacific humpback whales swim from Alaska to the Ballena National Marine Park to do the same things from December to April.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008990280,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008990280,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008990280?profile=original" /></a><br /> Plentiful sightings of these gentle giants of the sea prompted National Geographic to rate Costa Rica the 7th best place in the world for whale watching. Extravagant tail-slapping displays, breathtaking breaches through the water, and their distinctive hump rising above the water’s surface are the unforgettable sights everyone wants to experience on a Costa Rica whale-watching tour.</p><p><br /> A real-life encounter with whales and dolphins in their natural environment is an unforgettable experience. There is a spine-tingling fascination about being in close proximity to giant intelligent beings sharing the planet with us, but inhabiting the mysterious watery depths where we as humans don’t live.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008990884,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008990884,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="620" alt="9008990884?profile=original" /></a><br /> If seeing whales and dolphins up close in their natural environment is on your bucket list, you can go on <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/things-to-do/ocean-adventures.aspx" target="_blank">Costa Rica whale watching tours</a> from Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge starting toward the end of July through the end of September. Keep a look-out also for visiting <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/whale-sharks-in-costa-rica-give-hotel-guests-surprise-thrill/" target="_blank">whale sharks</a>, the largest fish in the sea.</p><p><br /> Nicuesa Lodge is giving a special offer of one free night when you stay a minimum of three or more nights; valid through Sept. 30, 2016.</p><p></p></div>A world of clouds and orchids at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve in Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/a-world-of-clouds-and-orchids-at-the-monteverde-cloud-forest2015-11-26T00:33:04.000Z2015-11-26T00:33:04.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296607298,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296607298,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="532" alt="9296607298?profile=original" /></a>It is believed that the <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/cant-visit-costa-rica-without-seeing-monteverde-cloud-forest/" target="_blank">Monteverde cloud forest in Costa Rica</a> has the <a href="http://www.reservamonteverde.com/flora-english.html" target="_blank">highest diversity of orchids in the world</a>. Although no inventory has ever been made, it also is thought that approximately <b>one-third of Costa Rica's flora has been recorded in the Monteverde region</b>. This is quite significant given that <b>Costa Rica is considered to be one of the <a href="http://www.reservamonteverde.com/biodiversity.html" target="_blank">most biologically diverse countries in the world</a></b>, having 5% of all the known species of plants and animals in only 0.03% of the Earth's surface.</p><p>You can see all of this biodiversity when you visit the <strong><a href="http://www.reservamonteverde.com/cct-english.html" target="_blank">Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve</a></strong>, one of Costa Rica’s most famous private reserves.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009022667,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009022667,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="550" alt="9009022667?profile=original" /></a>There is still no complete data on the amount of species of plant life in the reserve, so there could be much more than the <b>755 species of trees</b> recorded, or the <b>more than 500 known species of orchids</b>, or the <b>878 kinds of epiphytes</b> that are the richest life form of flora in Monteverde. Of the orchids, 34 species were first discovered in the Monteverde Reserve.</p><p>The Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve spans <b>six distinct ecological zones</b> and helps to protect birds, butterflies, insects, and mammals, including <b>all <a href="http://www.reservamonteverde.com/fauna-english.html" target="_blank">six species of wild cats in Costa Rica</a></b> – jaguars, ocelots, pumas, jaguarundis, margays and oncillas. The Monteverde Reserve is a <b>favorite destination for</b> <b>bird watching in Costa Rica</b> to see its more than <b>400 species of birds</b> recorded, especially the elusive, jewel green and red <b>Resplendent Quetzal</b> and the distinctive-sounding <b>Three-wattled bellbird</b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009023261,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009023261,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="550" alt="9009023261?profile=original" /></a></p><p>Comprising <b>10,500 hectares (25,950 acres)</b>, there are <b>nine established trails</b> and <b>one suspension bridge</b> in the well-maintained <a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/maps/monteverde.htm" target="_blank">13-kilometer (8-mile) trail network</a> of the Monteverde Reserve. One place very worth visiting is the <b>“La Ventana” (the Window) scenic overlook</b>, where you can <b>stand on the Continental Divide</b> between the Pacific and Caribbean (Atlantic) sides of Costa Rica. Visitors are also encouraged to see the <b>suspension bridge</b>, where you can examine a <b>large number of epiphytes</b> (bromeliads, orchids, ferns, mosses) and other life forms that inhabit the tree canopy of the area.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009023501,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009023501,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="532" alt="9009023501?profile=original" /></a>The best way to experience the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve is on a <b>guided tour with a naturalist</b>; early-morning <b>bird-watching tours</b> also are available.</p><p> </p><p>Located very near the Monteverde Reserve, luxury <strong><a href="http://www.elestablo.com/" target="_blank">Hotel El Establo</a></strong> is a good choice for <b><a href="http://www.elestablo.com/rooms-rates/deluxe" target="_blank">where to stay in Monteverde</a> to visit the reserve</b>. You can walk to the entrance, or the hotel can arrange transportation for you. El Establo also can arrange guided tours in the Monteverde Reserve.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008999468,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008999468,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008999468?profile=original" /></a></p><p>Some notable features of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/El-Establo-Monteverde-Costa-Rica-199258360096109/" target="_blank">El Establo Mountain Hotel</a> include: comfortable and well-appointed rooms with <b>magnificent views,</b> two excellent <a href="http://www.elestablo.com/restaurants/laggus" target="_blank">gourmet restaurants</a>, hiking and mountain biking trails, the hotel’s own <a href="http://www.elestablo.com/canopy-information/canopy-tour" target="_blank">Tree Top canopy zip line tour</a> and <a href="http://www.elestablo.com/canopy-information/night-walk" target="_blank">Night Walk tour</a>, a spa, two heated indoor pools, and tennis, basketball and mini soccer courts. El Establo Hotel is part of the <strong><a href="http://www.enchanting-hotels.cr/en/el-establo-mountain-hotel.html" target="_blank">Enchanting Hotels</a> collection in Costa Rica</strong>.</p><p> </p><p><b>Monteverde, Costa Rica</b></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296608265,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296608265,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296608265?profile=original" /></a></p><p>High up in the clouds, the Monteverde region is considered <b>one of the most <a href="http://www.monteverdeinfo.com/facts.htm" target="_blank">extensive cloud forests in Central America</a>.</b> It is a special place where magnificent tall trees – adorned with orchids, bromeliads, ferns, vines and mosses – reach high into the sky. The <b>rare ecosystem of</b> <b>Monteverde</b> is part of only 1% of the planet’s global woodlands known as cloud forest – rainforest at high elevations (above 5,000 feet), where tropical warm air condenses into persistent fog, mist and dripping wet.</p><p> </p><p><b>Located in Costa Rica’s Central Highlands,</b> Monteverde is about three hours from major destinations like San Jose, Arenal Volcano and Pacific Coast beaches of Guanacaste.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>See the whales in Costa Rica in September and Octoberhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/see-the-whales-in-costa-rica-in-september-and-october2015-09-20T23:46:21.000Z2015-09-20T23:46:21.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009009653,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009009653,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009009653?profile=original" /></a>It is once again time for <b>whale watching in Costa Rica</b>!</p><p>The <b>2015 whale-watching season in Costa Rica</b> gets going every year in August and September in southern Costa Rica. In Uvita Beach, there is a <a href="http://www.festivaldeballenasydelfines.com/" target="_blank">Festival of Whales & Dolphins</a> every year in September. The annual festival marks the <b>peak of the annual migration of southern Pacific Humpback Whales to the <a href="http://www.costarica-nationalparks.com/ballenanationalmarinepark.html" target="_blank">Ballena National Marine Park</a> in Costa Rica</b>. </p><p>Less than an hour north of the Ballena National Marine Park, <a href="http://portasol.cr/en/" target="_blank">Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living</a> <b>eco-community</b> is offering a <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/activities/tours/190-whale-and-dolphin-watching.html" target="_blank">special promotion</a> during <b>Costa Rica whale watching season 2015</b>. Stay two nights at the <b>Costa Rica sustainable community</b>, with full breakfast included, and receive a <b>whale-watching tour for two persons with transportation</b> from Portasol to the Ballena National Marine Park. The tour also includes snorkeling and a visit to the Ventanas sea caves.</p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009009689,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009009689,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009009689?profile=original" /></a>Costa Rica provides an important</b> <b>sanctuary for <a href="http://www.enchantedlearning.com/subjects/whales/species/Humpbackwhale.shtml" target="_blank">endangered humpback whales</a></b> to breed and give birth. Southern Pacific humpback whales swim north from Antarctica as far as Costa Rica to the warm tropical waters of Golfo Dulce and the southern Pacific coast from <b>August to October</b>. Then later from <b>December to April,</b> northern Pacific humpback whales swim thousands of miles from Alaska to the shallow coastal waters of the <b>Ballena National Marine Park in southern Costa Rica</b>.</p><p>The Ballena (“whale”) National Marine Park covers 272 acres (110 hectares) of land and 13,280 acres (5,375 hectares) of ocean. It was created in 1989 as the <b>first marine park in Latin America,</b> and is a <b>vital refuge for marine life</b>, including pilot whales, false orca whales, sea turtles, and Pacific Spotted, Common and Bottlenose dolphins. The Ballena National Marine Park is <b>famous for its sandbar isthmus</b> formed perfectly into the <b>shape of a large whale’s tail</b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009010260,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009010260,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="525" alt="9009010260?profile=original" /></a>Biologists consider the protected area of the national park <b>a perfect spot between the northern and southern hemispheres for marine life</b> because it is located in what is known as the <b><a href="http://www.ipsnews.net/2014/10/protecting-biodiversity-in-costa-ricas-thermal-convection-dome-in-the-pacific/" target="_blank">Costa Rica Thermal Convection Dome</a>.</b> This large “bubble” of shallow, oxygen-rich warm water layered over the top of colder water with less oxygen creates an ideal habitat for marine life.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008963874,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008963874,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008963874?profile=original" /></a>About</b> <a href="http://portasol.cr/en/" target="_blank">Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living</a></p><p>Looking to <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/destinations/want-unique-eco-community-costa-rica-property-investment/" target="_blank">invest in real estate in Costa Rica</a> or enjoy a <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/news-blog/183-why-choose-portasol-for-your-costa-rica-vacation-destination.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica vacation rental</a> for your holiday? Visit the <b>unique eco-development of Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living</b> that appears in the new <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/news-blog/196-portasol-stars-in-new-hollywood-movie-after-words.html" target="_blank">Hollywood movie “After Words”</a>, with Marcia Gay Harden and Oscar Jaenada, that was filmed in Costa Rica.</p><p>Set on <b>1,335 acres</b> of pure wildlife-rich <b>rainforest on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast</b>, Portasol’s location is ideal – between <b>Manuel Antonio National Park</b> and <b>the Ballena National Marine Park.</b> Portasol is close to uncrowded tropical beaches and top whitewater rafting rivers. Offering <b>Costa Rica property for sale</b> and unique <b>Costa Rica</b> <b>vacation rentals</b>, Portasol is a perfect place to stay while you explore the southern Pacific region of Costa Rica.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>PBS to feature baby sloths in Costa Rica on Nature programhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/pbs-to-feature-baby-sloths-in-costa-rica-on-nature-program2015-09-21T23:33:16.000Z2015-09-21T23:33:16.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009000888,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009000888,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9009000888?profile=original" /></a>The cute and cuddly sloths of Costa Rica</b> will once again feature in <b>international television and online programming</b>. The award-winning production <strong><a href="http://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/" target="_blank">Nature</a></strong> will air a two-part program called <strong><a href="http://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/natures-miracle-orphans/12712/" target="_blank">Nature’s Miracle Orphans</a></strong> <b>on PBS on September 23 and 30, 2015 at 8:00 p.m. (ET).</b> After each broadcast, the episode will be available for online streaming at <a href="http://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/" target="_blank">pbs.org/nature</a>. <em><b>Nature</b></em> is a production of THIRTEEN Productions LLC for WNET. <em><b>Nature’s Miracle Orphans</b></em> is a BBC Production. The series has been consistently among the most-watched primetime series on public television in the USA.</p><p> </p><p>The show tells the story of <b>orphaned baby sloths</b> at <strong><a href="http://www.theslothinstitutecostarica.org/" target="_blank">The Sloth Institute Costa Rica</a></strong> (SICR) in Manuel Antonio, run by Sam Trull, who is “<strong>dedicated to helping one of the most charismatic animals in Costa Rica, the sloth.” The Sloth Institute collaborates with the nonprofit organization <a href="http://kidssavingtherainforest.org/" target="_blank">Kids Saving the Rainforest</a> in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, for <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theslothinstitutecostarica" target="_blank">sloth rescue, rehabilitation and release</a>.</strong></p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001464,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001464,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="680" alt="9009001464?profile=original" /></a>n the episodes, storylines follow <b>“Newbie”, a baby three-toed female sloth</b> that has been battling pneumonia since her rescue, a condition Trull thinks may have been triggered by the stress of losing her mother. “In the wild, Newbie would have spent nine months clinging to her mother for comfort and security, feeding on her milk and learning what to eat. The tasks of feeding Newbie and showing her what foods to eat now fall to Trull as surrogate mother,” show information explains. Another sloth in the limelight is <b>“Pelota”, a two-toed female sloth</b> that Trull is preparing to release back into the wild, and so must teach her to climb, swim, and spend nights outside alone.</p><p> </p><p>The PBS documentary <em><b>Nature’s Miracle Orphans</b></em> <em><b>also</b></em> <b>follows the stories of koalas, wallabies, kangaroos and fruit bats in Australia</b> as they cope with survival without parents, and learning the life skills needed to survive back in the wild from their rescuers.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001299,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001299,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9009001299?profile=original" /></a>Sloths in Costa Rica have become famous</b>, and are one of the most sought-after animals to see by travelers visiting Costa Rica. <b>Animal Planet</b> featured rescued sloths at the <b><a href="http://www.slothsanctuary.com/" target="_blank">Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica</a>,</b> on the southern Caribbean Coast, in several shows in 2014 – <b>“Meet</b> <b>the Sloths”</b> and <b>“Sloth Week”</b>. The <a href="http://www.visitcostarica.com/ict/paginas/home.asp?ididioma=2" target="_blank">Costa Rica Tourism Board</a> also promotes sloths in its tourism campaigns to Costa Rica.</p><p> </p><p><b>See sloths in the wild in Costa Rica</b></p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009002081,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009002081,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9009002081?profile=original" /></a>The <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/inside-portasol/bio-reserve.html" target="_blank">private rainforest reserve</a> and 1,335 acres of protected land at <a href="http://portasol.cr/en/" target="_blank">Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living</a> <b>eco-development</b>, just south of Manuel Antonio, is a <b>great place to see <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/inside-portasol/flora-fauna.html" target="_blank">sloths in the Costa Rica jungle</a></b>.</p><p> </p><p>Portasol has <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/lodging/costa-rica-rainforest-vacation-rental-bungalows.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica vacation rentals</a> and <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/destinations/want-unique-eco-community-costa-rica-property-investment/" target="_blank">Costa Rica property for sale</a> in a <b>sustainable community</b>. You can stay on the rainforest property for a vacation and enjoy <b>Portasol’s trails and waterfalls</b>, or take a <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/best-wildlife-tour-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">wildlife day tour</a> with <a href="http://bushmastercostaricatours.com/" target="_blank">Bushmaster Adventures</a>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001887,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001887,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="487" alt="9009001887?profile=original" /></a>Portasol’s location is ideal – between <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/location/national-parks.html" target="_blank">Manuel Antonio National Park</a> and <b>the <a href="http://www.costarica-nationalparks.com/ballenanationalmarinepark.html" target="_blank">Ballena National Marine Park</a></b> on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast. The <b>beautiful uncrowded </b><a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/shhh-dont-tell-hidden-paradise-beaches-costa-ricas-central-pacific-coast/" target="_blank">beaches of Playa Linda and Playa Matapalo</a> are a few miles away. <b>Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living</b> appears in the new 2015 <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/after-words-movie-filmed-at-portasol-living-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Hollywood movie After Words</a>, with Marcia Gay Harden and Oscar Jaenada that was filmed in Costa Rica.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>Day-dreaming about Costa Rica? Get packing!https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/day-dreaming-about-costa-rica-get-packing2015-03-27T00:39:17.000Z2015-03-27T00:39:17.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008935079,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008935079,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="498" alt="9008935079?profile=original" /></a>I’m sitting at my desk, meant to be working. What I’m really doing is daydreaming about <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/ocean-eco-adventures/" target="_blank">snorkeling in the Golfo Dulce in Costa Rica</a>.</p><p> </p><p>I’m plotting how I can get <b>back to <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> on <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce</a></b>. I’m remembering swimming in that calm sea and <b>the feel of delicious water</b> – not bath-water warm, but not cold either. I’m thinking about <b>how clear the Golfo Dulce water is</b>, and how vibrantly it <b>changes color from deep jade green</b> next to the shoreline where it reflects the jungle, <b>to bright blue</b> where it mirrors the immense sky. And I’m remembering the <b>thrill at <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/dolphin-tale-wild-dolphins-golfo-dulce-costa-rica/" target="_blank">seeing wild dolphins</a></b> splash and play nearby.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296596487,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296596487,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296596487?profile=original" /></a>It takes <b>a journey to get to</b> <b>the</b> <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/accommodations/" target="_blank">Costa Rica rainforest lodge</a> <b>of</b> <b>Playa Nicuesa</b>, but most <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">unique locations</a> do. And it is worth it. <b>The <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a></b> sits on the <b>Golfo Dulce</b> (“Sweet Gulf”) <b>in <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">southern Costa Rica</a>,</b> next to the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/remarkable-rainforest-of-dreams-in-southern-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Piedras Blancas National Park</a> and across from the <b>Osa Peninsula.</b> It is an area of <b>pristine tropical wilderness</b> – something you don’t see every day.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008873474,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008873474,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008873474?profile=original" /></a>When you get there, you have <b>free use of kayaks, snorkeling and fishing equipment</b>, and <b>unlimited self-guided <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/" target="_blank">hikes in the rainforest</a> included</b> with your stay. Playa Nicuesa also has <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/yoga-and-wellness-nicuesa-lodge/" target="_blank">yoga classes</a>, and <b>guided half-day and full-day tours</b>.</p><p><em> </em></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296596498,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296596498,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="486" alt="9296596498?profile=original" /></a>For <b>snorkeling</b>, water clarity is best during summer season (January to May), but is <b>wonderful any time of year</b>. During <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/having-a-whale-of-a-time-at-playa-nicuesa-rainforest-lodge-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">whale-watching season</a> in August and September in the Gulf, you might see a migrating <b>Humpback Whale mother and her calf,</b> or a male whale looking for a mate. Almost always you will <b>see dolphins</b>. One year, a guest snorkeled right along with a massive (and gentle) whale shark.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008935877,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008935877,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008935877?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/ocean-eco-adventures/" target="_blank">Snorkeling activities at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> include:</b></p><p></p><p>Snorkeling right <b>off the Playa Nicuesa boat dock or beach</b> to see multitudes of reef fish.</p><h3><span class="font-size-2"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008936454,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="450" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008936454,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008936454?profile=original" /></a>A kayaking/snorkeling tour (2-3 hours) from Playa Nicuesa along the Golfo Dulce shoreline to a secluded beach with rocky reef housing fish, eels, urchins and starfish</span>.</h3><p></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008936492,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="450" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008936492,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008936492?profile=original" /></a>A <b>boat tour of Golfo Dulce</b> <b>(</b><b>2-4 hours)</b> to look for dolphins and other marine life, and <b>snorkel</b> in protected sites with coral reef. Marine life you may see include reef fish, schools of fish, spotted rays, starfish, dolphins and sea turtles.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008937465,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="450" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008937465,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008937465?profile=original" /></a></p><p>Contact Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge to book your Costa Rica adventure.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></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>Goa Holidays and Nightlifehttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/goa-holidays-and-nightlife2011-01-07T06:30:00.000Z2011-01-07T06:30:00.000ZTravel Tipshttps://tripatini.com/members/TravelTips<div><p>Partying at Beaches<br /><a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/goa/beaches-of-goa.html"><em><strong>Goa Beaches</strong></em></a> are quite different from those found in other parts of the country. The difference lies in the way people love to party at Goa beaches. <a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/goa/anjuna-beach.html"><strong>Arjuna Beach</strong></a> and many others have night clubs, bars and other venues that are highly admired for the <a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/goa/lifestyle.html"><em><strong>Goa nightlife</strong></em></a> entertainment. By choosing a Goa package tour, you will find yourself in the mood of partying all the time.</p><p><a href="http://us.travelchacha.com/goa/carnivals-of-goa.html">Goa Carnival</a> and Festivals<br />If you choose one of the Goa carnivals tours, you can witness the real festive spirit of the place. February is the month when Goa carnival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and you can choose to be a part of the entertainment unlimited. Parades, dance, music and other fun activities help tourists make best out of their tours. Besides, there are round-the-year festive celebrations on the occasions like Chavoth, Easter, Christmas, Padvo and many such festivals and you can be a part of these celebrations.</p><p>Ride the Adventure<br />Goa Tours offer ideal opportunities to people with inclination towards adventure holidays. Parasailing, scuba diving, windsurfing, dinghy sailing, water skiing and many such activities become a part of the Goa package tour. Water scooters are other adventure-filled rides that let one have a great expedition on the sea waves.</p><p>Fun on <a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/goa/honeymoon.html"><em><strong>Goa Honeymoon</strong></em></a><br />Goa is among the most preferred destinations for the newly wedded honeymoon couples. One good reason for this is the Goa honeymoon cruises that take honeymoon couples on a wonderful romantic voyage. Besides, there are many party cruises that a honeymoon couple can join. Swimming, relaxing at the beach and enjoying dance and music at entertainment venues are some of the other exciting parts of a Goa honeymoon package.</p><p>Other Fun Parts of <a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/goa/tourism-in-goa.html">Goa Tourism</a><br />There are a number of casinos in Goa that add to the entertainment part of tours to Goa. One can also enjoy crocodile watching and <a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/wildlife/bird-watching-tours.html"><strong>bird watching</strong></a> at some parts of the region. Enjoying seafood,<a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/goa/forts-monuments.html">Goa Forts and Monuments</a> regional cuisines and <a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/goa/shopping-in-goa.html"><em><strong>Goa Shopping</strong></em></a> further take the tour experience to great heights. Finally, there are many options for Goa weekend getaways.</p><p>Goa is a vibrant place with unlimited options to get entertained. Choose the Goa package tour and <a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/goa/resorts.html">Goa Resorts</a> carefully so that you can enjoy most of these options.</p></div>7 days Kenya Birding Safarishttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/birding-safaris-in-africa2019-02-09T13:52:41.000Z2019-02-09T13:52:41.000ZClaude Edmondhttps://tripatini.com/members/ClaudeEdmond<div><p></p><p class="verd"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>7 days Kenya Birding Safaris</strong></span></p><p class="verd"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Kenya is one of Africa most outstanding bird watching safari and ornithological safaris destinations and a must tour for amateur and professional birders and ornithologist as the seamless overlapping habitats provide many bird species within short distances like. Birding safaris in Kenya are more thrilling because of the millions of flamingos in Nakuru and lake Naivasha national park. You'll find Cattle Egrets picking insects next to Buffaloes, Ox-peckers grooming a Rhino and playful Sacred Ibis and Little Egrets. We are the most ideal birding tour operator and safari company to organize your vacation as many birding tours to Kenya are now marketed as competition of the IBAs visited and final numbers on the checklist.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008688894,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008688894,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="200" alt="9008688894?profile=original" /></a></span></p><p class="verd"><span style="font-size:12pt;">The Great Rift Valley lakes and national parks in Kenya are the breeding ground for several hundred species of birds in Kenya, Lake nakuru national park has thousands of both greater and lesser flamingos including many migrants, who visit from November to March, making the area a bird watchers dream destination. It is not uncommon to see hundreds of members of one species at ago, Lake nakuru National Park, lake naivasha national park, lake Victoria National Park, Masai Mara National Park, And samburu national park are the perfect spot to do a birding safari. In general, birding is at its height from june to March.<br /></span> <br /> <font size="2" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12pt;">Kenya has one of the richest avifaunas in Africa with around 1090 bird species recorded. At least eight of these are national endemics. Around 170 species of Kenya's birds species are Palearctic migrants (11 species of them with a local breeding population too), mainly from eastern Europe, Russia, the middle East and Siberia. Another 60 species migrate regularly within the Afrotropics or from Madagascar. Some 335 species are found in forest; 230 species are entirely forest dependent and 110 species are "forest specialists" requiring intact, undisturbed habitat and Forty species of global conservation concern are known to occur in Kenya. Four of these are critically Endangered, two Endangered and 16 species are Vulnerable.</span><br /> <i><br /></i></font> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Safari program</span></p><p class="verd"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong><span class="bold">Day 1: Nairobi – Lake Baringo</span></strong><span class="verd"><br /> <br /> Pick up from your hotel and drive through Limuru tea farms, descending to the floor of the Great Rift Valley with a brief stop at the viewpoint. Mt. Longonot (which is of volcanic origin) and Lake Naivasha can be seen from far. Enroute to Lake Baringo . This is one of the fresh waters lakes in the rift valley and a bird watchers paradise –it has over 460 recorded bird species and a number of hippos. Check in and in lunch at Lake Baringo county club of which the rooms have plenty of information on the areas bird life or campsite. A resident ornithologist leads walks before breakfast and in the evenings. Dinner and overnight at lodge/ campsite.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008689656,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008689656,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="200" alt="9008689656?profile=original" /></a><br /> <br /> <strong><span class="bold">Day 2: Lake Baringo</span></strong><br /></span> <span class="verd">After breakfast, take a 1-hour bird watching trip by boat to the island to view more birds and hippos. On the Island you can organize short excursions at an extra cost to see the njemp village (local tribe) and dancing, or a local snake farm. After proceed to the nearby Lake Bogoria 1 hour away. Lake Bogoria is a shallow soda lake hosting thousands of pink flamingos, a large number of other birds and the lesser kudu. Scalding hot springs and geysers at the southern end of the lake spurt and steam their alkaline waters. The flamingos feeding in the bluish water presents a rare scenic beauty. Dinner and overnight at a lodge/campsite</span> <strong><span class="verd"><br /></span></strong></span></p><p class="verd"></p><p class="verd"><span class="bold" style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Day 3: Lake Baringo – Kakamega</strong><br /></span> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">After breakfast, drive to Kakamega national reserve. This is the country's only tropical rain forest and formed part of the dense rain forest that stretched from West Africa, across central Africa and in to the highland areas East and West of the great rift valley. The forest is world renowned as home to several hundred species of birds including rare snake eating birds, insects, monkey and other mammals as well as countless exotic tree species. Dinner and overnight at lodge/campsite.</span></p><p class="verd"><span class="bold" style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Day 4: Kakamega</strong><br /></span> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">After breakfast, spend a full day in the Kakamega national reserve with bird walks accompanied by game wardens and our driver/guides. Dinner and overnight at a lodge/campsite.<br /></span> <br /> <span class="bold" style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Day 5: Kakamega –Nakuru</strong><br /></span> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">Drive to lake Nakuru national park after an early breakfast arriving at the Lake Nakuru lodge in time for lunch. The park is a home to stunning flocks of lesser and a great flamingos, which literally turn the lakeshores in to a magnificent pink stretch. The bird life here is world renown and over 400 birds species can be seen like, white pelicans and the marabou stork, all water birds that breed in the lakes alkaline waters. You may also spot white rhino, rare Rothschild giraffe, and other plain game. Dinner and overnight at a lodge/campsite.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008689856,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008689856,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="200" alt="9008689856?profile=original" /></a></span></p><p class="verd"><span class="bold" style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Day 6: Nakuru – Naivasha</strong><br /></span> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">A pre breakfast bird spotting drive in the park and around the lake before returning to the lodge for breakfast. Drive to hells gate national park with brief stop at the Lake Elementaita viewpoint. The park is famous for its natural steaming geysers and a haven for birdwatchers. The walking/ hiking in the park gives one a sense of freedom, open vultures, verreaus eagles, augur buzzards and thousands of swifts. Over 120 species have been recorded here. Lunch at Lake Naivasha country club and the afternoon is spent at leisure either to explore the rich, bird filled gardens or an optional boat ride to crescent Island (at an extra cost). Dinner and overnight at lodge/campsite.</span></p><p class="verd"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong><span class="bold">Day 7: Naivasha – Nairobi<br /></span></strong></span> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">After a leisurely breakfast drive back to Nairobi and drop off at your hotel or drop off at JKI Airport to catch your flight back home.</span> <br /> <br /><strong>T</strong><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>he Price per person sharing is US $ 2248 Per person</strong></span></p><p class="verd"></p><div id="divtagdefaultwrapper" dir="ltr" style="font-size:12pt;color:#000000;font-family:Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Claudious Tours and Safaris</div><div dir="ltr" style="font-size:12pt;color:#000000;font-family:Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Buru Buru Business Complex</div><div dir="ltr" style="font-size:12pt;color:#000000;font-family:Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif;">P.O Box 43749 - 00101<br /> <b><u>Nairobi, Kenya <br /></u></b> Cell: +254 714 729 600<br /><p style="margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;">Cell: +254 736 092 199</p>Skype: Claude.edmond3<br /> Email 1: <a href="http://gmail.com/" target="_blank">claudioustours@gmail.com/</a></div><div dir="ltr" style="font-size:12pt;color:#000000;font-family:Calibri, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Email 2: <a href="mailto:claudioustours@hotmail.com" title="claudioustours@hotmail.com">claudioustours@hotmail.com</a><br /><p style="margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;">Website: <a href="http://www.claudioustours.co.ke" title="http://www.claudioustours.co.ke">http://www.claudioustours.co.ke</a></p></div><p class="verd"></p><p class="verd"></p><p class="verd"><span class="verd"><br /></span></p></div>Puerto Madryn, Argentina Vacation Essentialshttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/puerto-madryn-argentina2011-01-08T19:21:19.000Z2011-01-08T19:21:19.000ZRoy Healehttps://tripatini.com/members/RoyHeale<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008595875,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008595875,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" alt="9008595875?profile=original" /></a> <em>Oceanside Diining on the Beach</em></p><p> </p><p>By Roy Heale</p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"> </p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;">Located at the heart of one of Argentina's most popular eco-tourism destinations is the port city of Puerto Madryn. From this central point eco-tours depart daily for whale watching, visits to the sea lion colonies, the penguin settlements, wildlife parks, dolphin watching, and much more of the local wildlife. The region is a popular breeding ground for many species and has been recognized as a World Natural Heritage Site since 1999. The clear blue waters of the Nuevo Gulf and the Atlantic Ocean coupled with numerous sandy beaches has made this an extremely popular summer vacation destination in Argentina. The expert gay and gay-friendly English speaking staff at Flamenco Tour agency have researched the local market to find gay or gay-friendly accommodations and attractions with special rates to suit any travel budget.</p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"> </p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;">Here are some of their hotel recommendations:</p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"> </p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"><b>Hotel Piren:<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008596069,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008596069,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-right" alt="9008596069?profile=original" /></a></b></p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"> </p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"><span style="font-weight:normal;">Located in the center of town on the main ocean boardwalk</span> <span style="font-weight:normal;">many of the rooms have ocean views. The staff are bilingual and a buffet breakfast is included in the room rates. There are standard, junior, premium, and senior rooms to choose from with a total of 91 rooms.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"><span style="font-weight:normal;"> </span></p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;font-weight:normal;"> </p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"><b>The Rayentray:</b></p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"> </p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"><span style="font-weight:normal;">This relatively new hotel is located overlooking the waters of the Nuevo Gulf and has 170 rooms plus convention facilities. The facilities include a bar, restaurant, indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, sunbeds, and whirlpool plus a Casino. All rooms have ocean views and choices include junior, superior, suites, and special configurations for family groups.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"> </p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"><b>Territorio Hotel:</b></p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"> </p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"><span style="font-weight:normal;">This boutique hotel offers 36 ocean view rooms and suites of different sizes with one especially designed for disabled access. The spa and health cub located on the top floor offers massages and special services plus a gymnasium. The main floor lounge, cafe and restaurant also have beautiful ocean views.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"> </p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"><span style="font-weight:normal;">Flamenco Tour agency also offers a luxury two bedroom apartment in a residential neighborhood 100 meters from the ocean and a ten minute walk into town. This is a perfect home base to relax after your outdoor adventures or days spent on the beach and comfortably sleeps four people. It has a well equipped kitchen, WiFi, lounge area, and more. It is ideal for a gay vacation which combines beach days with the city nightlife or day tours of the countryside.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"> </p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"><span style="font-weight:normal;">During my five day visit to Puerto Madryn I soon learned that dining out in this town offers a gourmet experience comparable to much larger cities. My personal favorite was dining on the beach at the Vernardino Club del Mar with a spectacular view and a cafe style menu with extensive choices for lunch or dinner. When craving seafood Los Colones or Cantina El Nautico are the best places and both are located in the center of the town and close to the beaches. Cafes like the Lizard Cafe or the Bodegan Bienvenidos offer simple fare at reasonable prices and the Lizard Cafe specializes in pizza for dine-in, takeout, or home delivery. Be sure to visit the Quimey Quipan---meaning “Welcome” in English----in the town center or when heading to Puerto Piramedes for whale watching and enjoy local Patagonia creations with seafood or meat dishes.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"><span style="font-weight:normal;"> </span></p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"><span style="font-weight:normal;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008595492,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008595492,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-full" alt="9008595492?profile=original" /></a></span></p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"> </p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"><span style="font-weight:normal;">Whatever you are looking for on your gay vacation be sure to consult with the expert staff at Flamenco Tour agency and they will point you in the right direction to find local gay-friendly businesses. This seaside town and surrounding countryside offers a very unique eco-friendly experience for every outdoor enthusiast or nature lover. Combine mother nature with great gourmet dining, beach relaxation, and first class accommodations for the perfect gay get-away in Argentina's spectacular Patagonia region.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"> </p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"><span style="font-weight:normal;">For More Information Visit:</span> <font color="#000080"><span xml:lang="zxx" lang="zxx"><u><a href="http://www.flamencotour.com/"><span style="font-weight:normal;">www.flamencotour.com</span></a></u></span></font></p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;"> </p></div>Bandhavgarh Wildlife, Indiahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/bandhavgarh-wildlife-india2011-01-19T10:30:00.000Z2011-01-19T10:30:00.000ZTravel Tipshttps://tripatini.com/members/TravelTips<div><p>If <a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/wildlife/">wildlife Holidays india</a> pushes your adrenaline level into high gear, visit the enchanting <a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/wildlife/bandhavgarh-national-park.html">Bandhavgarh National Park</a> in <a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/india-holidays/madhya-pradesh-vacations.html">Madhya Pradesh</a>. It is located in the Umaria district and is famous for tigers, leopards and several other wildlife species. The most propitious time to visit this destination is from November to June. Sprawling over an area of 437 sq km, it attracts wildlife buffs from across the globe. It is surrounded by the Vindhyan mountains ranges which make it look picturesque. It is among the famous <a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/wildlife/sanctuaries.html">wildlife sanctuaries in India</a>.<br />The vegetation of the sanctuary mainly consists of Sal trees and Bamboo. The beautiful wooded hills of the park capture one’s heart. Bandhavgarh is also on of the famous <a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/wildlife/national-parks-in-india.html">National Parks in India</a>. In comparison to other wildlife destinationsand wildlife <a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/wildlife/bird-watching-tours.html">bird watching in India</a>, this Park has fairly good population of tigers. The Park was established in 1968 and it got the title of a Tiger Reserve in the year 1993. It has the maximum number of tigers in the country. It is also called the White Tiger Jungle as a white tiger was first discovered here many travel agency provided <a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/wildlife/tiger-tours.html">tiger tours</a>..<br /><a target="_blank" href="http://us.travelchacha.com/wildlife/elephant-safari.html">Elephant safari</a> is one of the most interesting ways of exploring this sanctuary. It also promises good chances of sighting the royal Bengal tiger. Elephant safari in Bandhavgarh is organized only in the morning time. You can also opt for a jeep safari which is organized from morning to evening.<br />Some of the other wildlife species found here are nilgai, bison, chinkara, chital, langur, monkey, wild boar, chausingha, muntjac and jackals. The Park boasts of more than 250 bird species, including some migratory birds too. Some of the striking birds sighted here are lesser adjutants, bee-eaters, lesser adjutant stork, crested serpent eagle, lesser whistling teal, blossom headed parakeet, wood shrikes, white-breasted kingfisher, paradise flycatchers, red wattled lapwing and many more.</p><p>Bandhavgarh Fort is another attractive attraction of Bandhavgarh National Park. It is the oldest fort of India with a history of 2500 years old. The fort shelters the endangered species of vulture. According to the regional stories this fort was built by the ruler of Gond Empire.</p></div>South India Wildlife Sanctuarieshttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/south-india-wildlife2011-01-27T09:30:00.000Z2011-01-27T09:30:00.000ZTravel Tipshttps://tripatini.com/members/TravelTips<div><p><a href="http://us.travelchacha.com/wildlife/vacations-tours.html" title="Wlidlife vacations">Wildlife Vacations</a> in South India are dwelling place for more than 500 species of mammals, 1225 bird species, 1600 types of reptiles and amphibians and about 57,000 varieties of insects.</p><p><a href="http://us.travelchacha.com/wildlife/periyar-national-park.html" title="Periyar National Park">Periyar National Park,</a> Kerala<br />Periyar wildlife sanctuary attracts visitors all over the world for its emerald green forest and lovely Periyar lake. It is a homeland to many wild animals such as elephant, Sambhar, Bison, Spotted deers, tigers, Leopards etc. along with more than 260 species of birds including Nilgiri wood pigeons, Parakeets etc.</p><p>Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala<br />The sanctuary is surrounded by scenic lake, amazing arch dam across two hills and green emerald forests. It has a large variety of fauna including elephants, Bison, Sambhar, Deer, Tiger etc and reptiles such as Cobra, Viper and many non-poisonous snakes. Avifauna has large variety of birds like Jungle fowl, Myna, Black Bulbul, Kingfisher, woodpecker etc.</p><p>Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu<br />Evergreen forests and sea-shore adorn the beauty of this place. The sanctuary houses varied wildlife such as Chital, Wild boar, Bonnet macaque, Black Buck, Flamingos, Teals, Gulls, Plavers and Stilts.</p><p>Crocodile Bank, Tamil Nadu<br />Crocodile Bank is located 42 km from Chennai. It protects the endangered reptiles like crocodile and alligators. The major attractions are the several species of Indian and African crocodile and alligators. About 5,000 species are kept in their natural surroundings in open pools. They can be viewed from a safe distance.<br />Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka<br />Bandipur <a href="http://us.travelchacha.com/wildlife/national-parks-in-india.html" title="National Parks">National Parks</a> lies to the south of the Kabini river in Karnataka. The main habitats of the park are Asian elephants, tiger, giant Indian squirrel, leopard cat, sloth bear, four horned antelope and so on.</p><p>Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka</p><p>Dandeli is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka. The sanctuary is a home of many animals like the tiger, elephant, gaur, panther, sloth bear, mouse deer, giant flying squirrel, bison and many more. It is also rich in avifauna which includes great Indian hornbill, crested serpent eagle, woodpecker, magpie robin etc.</p><p>Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary, Andhra Pradesh<br />Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Adilabad district which is 250 km away from Hyderabad. This sanctuary is a great place to spot animals like the Sambar, cheetal, nilgai, barking deer, Indian bison, sloth bear and panther, along with some reptile species such as python, crocodile, cobra, star tortoise and monitor lizard. Apart from that it is a homeland to numerous bird species like partridge, quails, peacocks, eagle, kites, owls, mynahs and kingfisher.</p></div>Wonderful, Heavenly, Blessed Destinations in Indiahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/wonderful-heavenly-blessed2010-12-13T06:00:00.000Z2010-12-13T06:00:00.000ZTravel Tipshttps://tripatini.com/members/TravelTips<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008588893,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008588893,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="" width="320" /></a></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong><a href="http://us.travelchacha.com/cultural-tourism-india.html" target="_blank">Cultural Tourism India</a></strong></p><p>So while it is difficult to grasp the whole <a href="http://us.travelchacha.com/places-to-visit-in-india.html" target="_blank">Places To Visit India</a> in a single visit, make sure you don’t miss out on the important landmarks or the most heartening experiences of visiting this fascinating country.</p><p>Trust Indian tour operators to give you the best within your time-limit and help you achieve your goal of seeing the most while taking home the finest experiences that are synonymous with India. With more than a decade of experience in Indian tourism, we have developed innumerable packages to suit just as many needs and interests of our diverse guests, keeping in mind their busy lives and tight schedules.</p><p><a href="http://us.travelchacha.com/wildlife/bird-watching-tours.html" target="_blank"><strong>Bird watching</strong></a> is also a significant part of wildlife tourism in India. Indian sky is filled with various colorful birds among which some are residential and some are migratory birds. It has all total of 1200 species of birds which resides in different bird sanctuaries namely the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary and the Vembanad Bird Sanctuary.</p><p>India is a beautiful country and it is blessed with astounding beauty of nature in the from of soaring Himalayan peaks covered by the fairy snow, musical streams and rivers, stunning and breathtaking beaches beautifully dotted by the costal palm trees, scintillating hill stations, magnificent backwaters, gorgeous landscapes for trekking and adventure activities, rich culture and traditions, magnificent monuments, palace and forts, gothic churches, exotic wildlife parks and sanctuaries and many alike. Apart from all these holiday in India is made more delightful and memorable by the world class accommodation facilities, hospitable people, lip smacking delicious delicacies, tantalizing spicy Indian cuisines and on top the pleasing climatic conditions which prevail all the year round. Truly you will have a wonderful vacation in India that will offer you wonderful experince to treasure and cherish forever.</p><p>Well if you want to enjoy holiday in this beautiful country visit to Manali and Darjeeling the top hill stations and sought after holiday destination in India. Book one tailor made tour package from the many India holiday packages and explore the magnificence and the splendor of these wonderful heavenly blessed destinations and enjoy <strong><a href="http://us.travelchacha.com/heritage-tourism.html" target="_blank">Heritage Tourism India</a></strong> vacation in a delightful and memorable way.</p><p>Honeymooning after marriage has become a trend these days. Couples in quest of adventure, fun and peace away from the hustle bustle of city life go for honeymoon. Whether it is an arranged marriage or love marriage, couples need some time to know each other and share an eternal bond of love. This calls for an outing or a short trip where they can get intimate and explore each other.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008588893,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><br /></a></p></div>