Volunteer Vacations to Guatemala

Airline employees are know for their dedication to worthy causes. Just look at Airline Ambassadors for proof. If you are looking for a rewarding vacation then look at a volunteer vacation. This is not a case of all work, no play. In fact you might be surprised when you come home how much fun you had and how tired you are, yet tired in a good way. Guatemala is a country that has embraced volunteer vacations and has become a place where more and more people go to experience this special kind of a vacation.

After decades of civil war, the now stable democracy of Guatemala offers a multi-layered, mix-and-match vacation experience with more than a dozen ecosystems to explore in a country the size of Virginia. In mere hours, you can venture from steamy coastal wetlands to chilly cloud forests, or trek to an indigenous Mayan village and be back in town for late-night salsa dancing. The best part? You can do it all while pitching in to improve the country and the lives of its people.

Guatemala is host to hundreds of environmentally and socially conscious projects in need of volunteers, each offering a unique way to experience this culturally and ecologically rich land. So whether you want to spend a day or two saving turtles or weeks building houses, there are voluntourism treks for you. Here are some of the country? best.

Help a Fair Trade Farm
Comunidad Nueva Alianzais a fair trade organic coffee and macadamia nut plantation with an inspiring history. In the late ?0s, the owner failed to pay the 40 families working here, leaving them without enough money even ?o buy a ball of soap,?as one resident tells it. So the families organized, booted the boss, and were awarded collective ownership of the land by the government. The environmentally conscious farm is now nearly self-sustaining with biodiesel, hydropower, and bio-gas from pig and cow waste, but the workers are still paying off the mortgage. Help out by dropping in for a visit or staying on as a farm volunteer. The former owner? home has been converted to a rustic eco lodge that serves tasty vegetarian meals, and a two-day eco tour ($33) includes a guided hike through the rainforest to learn about medicinal plants, along with visits to scenic waterfalls. Tours leave Xela every Saturday morning from Parque Central. Reservations are made at Caf?onciencia in the picturesque city of Quetzaltenango.

Clear the Air
In many rural village homes, women spend hours indoors cooking over an open fire for their families. That means they?e breathing in black smoke every day, and their children live dangerously close to open flames. One simple solution is to build an enclosed plancha stove with a chimney to carry the smoke up and out. These stoves also help curb deforestation because they heat more efficiently. Materials cost about $125, though, which is a prohibitive amount for a village family. Enter the Pacaxjoj Community Stove Project, one of several in Guatemala to provide families with cement or adobe planchas built using volunteer help. Pitch in and be a brick-layer for a day and you?l get a taste of rural village life. Plan to stay in nearby Quetzaltenango, which also makes a great base for gorgeous volcano hikes with Quetzaltrekkers, a guide team that donates all its profits to a school for local homeless children. The best days for stove building are Thursday and Saturday. Trips to the village leave from Quetzaltenango (e-mail: estufasmejoradas@gmail.com).

Green the Highlands
Tierra Verde means ?reen land,?and that? the goal of this new reforestation project in the Guatemalan Highlands. When Hurricane Stan hit in 2005, the devastating mudslides were caused not so much by rain and wind as by the dearth of trees?heir roots would have helped keep soil in place on steep inclines. Now, this group of eco-minded expats and locals is rebuilding the villages as well as the forests. They?e currently tending more than 10,000 pine, white Cyprus, and eucalyptus seedlings that you can help plant from June to September, all while enjoying the region? breathtaking views and misty mountain air (e-mail:tierrav@gmail.com). After a hard day? work, treat yourself to a hot soak at Las Fuentes Georginas, where natural thermal pools nestled in verdant cloud forests.

Protect Endangered Turtles
Some experts predict that the leatherback?he largest known turtle?ill go extinct within 30 years. You can help the conservation group Arcasreverse this trend for both leatherbacks and the similarly threatened Olive Ridley sea turtles. While staying near the beach town of Hawaii, you?l assist with nightly beach patrols, search out nesting turtles, and collect their eggs for safekeeping in the hatchery. More intrepid volunteers can also help breed crocodiles and iguanas. Turtle season is June to January.

Bring in a Healthy Harvest
You won? want to miss the jungles and ruins of El Peten, in the north, where you?l be in close proximity to endangered jaguars, tapirs, Morelet? crocodiles, and scarlet macaws. But you can also get a different perspective on the region by visiting the Equilibrium Fund, an organization that trains rural women to organically farm the nutritious Maya nut. The species once grew in abundance throughout Central America but is now threatened with extinction due to deforestation. Since 2001 the group has planted more than 400,000 trees. You can help them plant June through September.

Build a Home
A stint with Habitat for Humanity is more expensive than most volunteer trips in Guatemala ($1,200 to $1,700), but this reputable nonprofit takes the guesswork out of planning. You get: door-to-door service from the airport to everywhere you go; meals and hotels arranged; and an English-speaking local to guide your group and customize extracurriculars. But get ready to work. Half of all the Habitat homes in Latin America are built in Guatemala: 3,000 went up in 2006 alone.

For information on hundreds of other projects, check out the database from EntreMundos. The group keeps tabs on volunteer opportunities across Guatemala, and unlike other voluntourist agencies, will help you find a perfect fit for practically nothing (suggested donation $5).

Common Misconceptions About Travel to Panama

Panama is in Central America. Outside of the Panama Canal most people know little about this amazing country. As a result a lot of people don’t understand what this country has to offer and what they are missing.

Common Misconceptions About Panama Travel:

1. It? Far – most folks are shocked to know just how close Panama is to the U.S. and Canada. Panama is just a 3 hour flight from Miami, 4 from Atlanta and Houston. Not only is it a quick flight, but a surprising number of airlines offer direct service, including: Newark, D.C., LAX, Houston, Amsterdam and Madrid.
2. The City Is Not Worth Seeing – Quite the opposite. Panama City is a cultural hub, the only place in Panama with plenty of hotel options (although frequently sold out), is nearby a handful of great national parks, native indians, and is far more modernized and sophisticated than 99% of visitors expect. Two nights inPanamaCityare a must.
3. There? a Beach Resort Area - Nope. Panama? large-scale development basically stops at The Canal. Once you head over The Bridge of the Americas into what is known as ?he interior? there isn? a whole lot going on. That is a big part of the reason why you need to see it, but beach tourism and resort development is just not a big part of Panama? agenda. There are only 2 major resorts (Decameron and Playa Blanca) and a few more on the way.
4. Panama is Dangerous – Negative. Panama is far safer than many other competing destinations and generally speaking, a darn safe place to visit and live. While many still hold onto the image of Panama as a dangerous, swampy, 3rd world republic with a pineapple faced dictator?his is far from the Panama of 2008.
5. It? Easy To Travel Around – Not so much. Travel times are long, the domestic airlines offer few routes and sub-standard service and private transport is expensive and hard to find. The highway system is excellent, but the road signs are NOT. We’re not trying to discourage you from visiting?ut you need to be careful in creating an itinerary that? realistic given your time constraints. The few semi-developed destinationsPanama does have (Bocas, Boquete, San Blas, Pearl Islands, Pedasi) are a challenge to connect together on one trip?hile of course being sure to factor in ?cts of god?such as aircraft repairs, late arriving drivers, canceled bus services and the like. However, unless you are expecting Disneyland, the challenges are worth the rewards?.g. wide open spaces, pristine beaches, lonely trails, personal service, unspoiled locals.
6. That It? Cheap – It is, and it isn?. Panama is in a weird stage of development where there aren? yet a lot of hotels and there aren? many tourists. Thus, what few hotels there are, especially in the booming city, are PACKED. This has driven up prices a bit. Not to worry though, once you get outside the City and head to places like Pedasi, Bocas and the lesser visited side of Boquete (Volcan) you can actually ?ive like a local?and enjoy such delights at $.50 cent beers and $4 lunches.

While Panama struggles to make it? mark on the tourism radar, plenty of misconceptions about travel here remain. Panama is still 5 years and a dozen quality hotels away from being a bona fide tourism destination. But that is in large part what attracts intrepid travelers who seek the road less traveled. Until then, Panama tourism remains a mystery to most of the world, the early birds will be happy to enjoy the Panama they knew before the throngs arrived. Will you be one of the lucky ones?

White Water Adventures in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is known to airline employees for it”’’s great beaches. Many interliners over look the interior of the country which offers great adventures. From zip lines to spas, horse back riding, treks thru the jungle and white water rafting. There is even a butterfly farm and turtle farm for the little ones. Interliners in search of adventure should consider Costa Rica on their next vacation.

Among all of the adventures you can experience, if you only have time for one, then go on a white water adventure. Staying in the capital of San Jose these are day trips from your hotel. Here are the two you should consider:

Pacuare White Water Rafting

This river has been officially declared a Wild and Scenic River, and offers some of the finest white water in Latin America, winding deep inside of one of Costa Rica”’’s most impressive primordial rainforests. You will traverse 18 miles of remote and scenic waters that course through a wilderness of dense vegetation covering the sides of steep gorges that rise above the riverbanks. The thick undergrowth provides shelter for jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, sloths, and numerous other species of animals and birds. It is 18 miles in length and is rated a Type 3 to Type 4 river trip, which makes it moderate to difficult.Rafters should be physically fit and at least 12 years old, but no previous white-water experience is necessary for this trip. This trip as a day trip will run you just under $120pp.

For those wanting something a little less of an adventure then consider:

Sarapiqu?hite Water Rafting

Winding through the region of the “Eternal Spring,” this river offers some of Costa Rica”’’s most lush and vibrant scenery. Free-flowing, it has its origins in clear mountain streams that tumble down through thick rainforest, finally joining together in the crystal waters of the beautiful Sarapiqu?Verdant forest reaches right up to the river”’’s sun-basked banks. If Matisse had come to Costa Rica, this is what he would have painted! This trip is about 9 miles long and is rated as Class III, easy-moderate. Minimum age on this trip is 8 years old. The cost should be just under $100pp.

Balsa River Trip

Experience the excitement and adrenalin of white water rafting on this half day adventure on the Balsa San Carlos River with rapids graded 2/3. After meeting with your river guide at your hotel we will drive 30 minutes to the river where the fun begins! You guides explain the safety procedures and safety equipment before embarking down the river. Enjoy up to 2 exhilarating hours of white water action on this beautiful tropical river. Once at the San Carlos Bridge we end our journey, enjoying a swim, some fresh tropical fruits and a cold Costa Rican style ?ichelada?This River is a great option for families and beginners. We recommend the Balsa River for those who are between the ages 7 and 60.

Note: Adventure sports require that you are in good physical condition to participate.

These trips can be done as one day excursions from San Jose. However if you want there are 2 and 3 day trips for the Pacuare trip where you stay at the Pacuare Lodge, a unique jungle oasis nestled in a most remarkable setting.. Modern wooden bungalows with thatched palm roofs are spaced out beneath the trees, providing both privacy and serenity.

Either way, taking one of these wonderful white water adventures in Costa Rica will send you home with stories that will make your fellow interliners envious.

For more information and resort reservations in Costa Rica contact InterlineTravel.com. You can reach them at 800 766-2911 or in the DFW Area at metro 817 481-8631 or online at www.interlinetravel.com.

Top Dive Spots in Belize

Belize is known by airline employees who dive as a diver’s paradise. The cayes (pronounced keys), the offshore atolls, and the barrier reef are the main attractions in Belize. The barrier reef, which is 185 miles long, is the longest in the Western Hemisphere. The cayes are coral sand and/or mangroves islands, that are located between the mainland and the barrier reef, on the barrier reef, and on or within the reef perimeters of the offshore atolls.

The diving in Belize is breath taking with numerous and varied dive sites to explore. Even though Belize is ranked as one of the top three dive destinations in the Caribbean it has been slower to deveope giving you the luxury of diving uncrowded sites. The majority of dive sites need to be accessed by boat with a few exceptions if you are staying on one of the outer atolls, Tobacco Caye or Southwater Caye. As a diver in Belize you will encounter marine life in all sizes and shapes including 70 types of hard corals and nearly 500 species of fish.

Here are a few tips for planning your dive trip to Belize:

Pack conservatively. Many small aircraft have weight limits.

Pack a carry-on. Include a swimsuit, one change of clothes, basic toiletries and essential dive gear such as your mask, computer and regulator. This way, if your luggage does get lost, you””re still ready to dive.

Carry all your important documentation and valuables in your carry-on luggage or on your person.

Carry a list of emergency phone numbers and addresses.

This is a no-brainer – DO NOT MESS with any drugs.

Make as comprehensive a check list as possible ahead of time, then consult it during the week before leaving on your trip (see below).

Be sure you have all your dive gear and that it is in good condition.

Diving is a strenuous sport. Be sure you are in good cardiovascular condition. Start conditioning months before your trip, not days.

Here is an overview of what we consider to be the top dive spots in Belize….

1) Ambergris Caye – Along the entire length of Ambergris Caye the reef is comprised of spectacular three dimensional coral formations which include canyons, grottoes and tunnels. Curiously, the more common reef fishes do not appear here in great numbers compared to elsewhere. However, there are a greater number of pelagic fish such as sharks and rays. There are also a considerable number of porpoise and turtle to be seen.

2) Lighthouse Reef – Of the three atoll reefs off the coast of Belize, Lighthouse Reef is the farthest offshore. It is far from neglected, however, since dive boats from San Pedro visit the atoll regularly and the larger live-aboard vessels are always found in the vicinity. Within the confines of the reef, the depth is generally about 9 feet (2.7 m) with sufficient room between the numerous patch reefs to maneuver any craft with shallow enough draft. The seabed is sandy and this, at least, allows the skipper to see the darker-colored patches of coral. As long as the sun is over the shoulder, the patch reefs are clearly seen. However, as soon as you turn and face the sun, the glare from the surface obscures the coral and extreme caution is advised.

3) Glover’s Reef – If you are serious about scuba diving, you must dive Glover’s Reef. There are 56 linear miles of wall diving at this remote atoll. The wall drops from 35 feet to 3000 feet in less than a mile, and visibility is regularly 100 feet or more. Long Caye Dive Center offers a variety of Belize dive packages. Many divers, who dive world-wide, have commented that this is some of the best diving they have experienced.

4) Long Caye Wall – This dive was rated by Skin Diver magazine as one of the top ten dive sites in the world! Mooring on a buoy,you descend to a pristine white sand floor. This isthe orientation dive for all divers, including first-timers. Passing over colonies of garden eels,you leave the white sands behind to hover over towering coral formations along the edge of the 2600 vertical wall. Schools of brilliantly colored fish drift amongst the coral formations;you willoften see batfish and giant lobster on this dive.

5) Bev’s Garden – This site features Lettuce Leaf and Staghorn corals as far as the eye can see. Asyou descend past the top of the wall at thirty-five feet,you drift over numerous canyons of coral, which provides hideouts for schoolmaster snappers and hawksbill turtles. It is common to see graceful spotted eagle rays soaring along the gentle currents.

6) The Crack – One ofthe more advanced dives, this vertical cave is entered at forty-five feet and exited between seventy and ninety feet. Sea life abounds in this dark crevice. Frequent sightings have been made of loggerhead turtles, bull sharks, and some of the largest Nassau groupers in the atoll. This is the perfect site for underwater photographers.

7) Middle Caye Wall – A ten-minute boat ride takesyou to the shadow of neighboring Middle Caye.You descend to the top of the wall, drifting through schools of bluehead wrasse and horse-eyed jacks. Before ascending, a visit with Mordecai, a five-foot long green moray eel who shares his home with nurse sharks and loggerhead turtles.

Getting an Australian Visa

You can’t just fly to Australia with a passport. You need an Australian Visa but no worries mate a visa is easy to get and you can get it quickly. American citizens are required to have a valid U.S. passport to enter Australia. Americans must enter with an Australian visa or, if eligible, through Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). The ETA replaces a visa and allows a stay of up to three months. InterlineTravel.com can get it for you online

Otherwise peopletaking a vacationin Australia must seek a visitor visa (tourist class) from the Australian High Commission. Australia offers visitors a visa that lasts three months or one that lasts for six months. If you are issued with a three month visa the holder must enter within 12 months from the date of issue. However, if you receive a six-month visa then the holder may enter within four years from the date of issue, or before the passport expires, whichever occurs first. Australia has very strict rules on overstaying so it is vital that applicants do not fall into an overstay situation.

Driving Tips for Australia

Australia is a HUGE country. Most people do not realize it until they get there. Australia actually stretches from east to west the same distance as the USA. If you want to get around to the major cities then you need to travel by air. There is train service with the country but the distances make this an option only if you have lots of time.

Driving across Australia was an awesome experience! It is a huge country so if you plan to take a road trip between cities, check your distances and take overnight stops if necessary. Ask for local guidance if you want to travel into the outback, this should not be undertaken without experience and help. You will need a four wheel drive vehicle to undertake trips into off-road territory. Oh yeah, speed limits in Australia are measured in Kilometres.

Now regardless of which city you visit you are probably going to want to rent a car. So here are some tips on renting a car in Australia.

To name a few, driving in Australia can be quite an adventure. There are many things to consider. The vast distances between cites, the condition of the roads you intend to travel, and or course don””t forget the speed limits.

Due to the long distances from one town to the other driver fatigue is one of the greatest contributors to death on Australian roads. Fatigue can severely impair judgment and can affect anyone. It is particularly dangerous because one of the symptoms is decreased ability to judge your own level of tiredness.

Most all of the car rental companies in Australia release the vehicle to you with a full tank of fuel.

A few things to watch out for:

• Before you leave the rental car location check to see that the tank is full.
• Report it immediately even if you phone as you are driving away but preferably before you leave.
  Before you return the vehicle to the car rental be sure to fill up at a gas station close to the location, if the vehicle is not full of gas on drop-off you will be charged an inflated rate by that company on your credit card.
• All companies disclose on their rental agreements the current refill rate – usually this is 50 cents more than what they charge at the local gas station!! – this covers their costs of getting the fuel trucked in and their time to fill the vehicle.
• Many airports around Australia charge what is known as an “Airport Recovery Fee” . This fee is passed on you the consumer by the suppliers as they in turn are taxed for having on airport facilities.

We highly recommend that you purchase and carry a disposable camera in your rental car at all times. This allows you to document any unsavoury situations that may occur like:

• Car damage caused while parked or away
• Vehicle condition at the time of return
• Unjust tire clamping
• Accident sites
• The occasional panorama
• A great sun set

Seriously, while the brand- name car rental companies have received minimal complaints, and most are dealt with in both a timely and reasonable fashion, some car rental companies claim repairs for damage already done prior to rental or damage occurring after the vehicle has been returned. A few pictures can stop this activity before it gains any momentum. Just saying that you have before and after pictures usually does the trick.

Having a disposal camera (and often a current daily paper) allows you to document the situation as you come upon it. The daily paper is to prove the time that the activity occurred. A picture truly is worth a thousand words – so don””t take any chances and become an amateur paparazzi for fun and safety.

Also here are some other rules and regulations regarding car rental and driving in Australia.

• You need: A valid driving licence, passport/ID and a valid credit card.
• You drive: On the left, steering wheel is on the right.
• Seat Belts: Must be worn at all times by all passengers.
• Speed limit: The maximum speed limit in cities and towns is 60 km/h (35mph) and 100 km/h (62mph) on country roads and highways. If the speed limit is not posted, then assume that it is 100 km/h (62mph).
• About gas or petrol as they call it in Australia: car-leaded and unleaded gas is sold by the litre and usually cost between A$0.85 (40p) to A$1.10 (51p) per litre.
• Parking rules: You can park in car parks usually at an hourly rate. You can park at meters as long as you feed them with change and don””t overstay. You can park off-street where no NO STANDING, NO PARKING, or other restrictions apply.
• Mobile phones: It is illegal to talk on your mobile phone while driving in Australia.

Have a great time exploring Australia. If you need help in booking a package to Australia contact InterlineTravel.com at 800 766-2911 or in the DFW Area at metro 817 481-8631. If you call ask for their agent Sue Tippetts who is from New Zealand and is married to a retired AA pilot so she knows Australia very well and knows all about non-reving down under! You can also reach them online at www.interlinetravel.com .

Hiking the Tongariro Northern Circuit in New Zealand

When you visit New Zealand you are doing yourself a disservice if you only see the country by car or plane. Get out and hike through the countryside. It is almost a national pasttime in New Zealand and there is so much to see and experience. One of the best hiking trails in the world is the Tongariro Northern Circuit.

Winding its way over Mt Tongariro and around Mt Ngauruhoe is the Tongariro Northern Circuit, one of the Great Walks of New Zealand. This walk passes through unique and stunning landforms which include volcanic craters and glacial valleys. This is an easy walk taking anywhere from 3 to 4 days.

What to expect on a great walk/easy tramping track:

• Moderatedayormulti-daytramping/hiking
• Trackisgenerallywellformed,maybesteep,rough or muddy
• Suitableforpeoplewithmoderatefitness.Limitedbackcountry (remote areas) experience required
• Trackhassigns,polesormarkers.Majorstreamand rivers crossings are bridged
• Light tramping/hiking boots required

There are four huts on the circuit, Mangatepopo, Ketetahi, Oturere and Waihohonu. Passes for these hutsshould be purchased before commencing the trip to avoid paying a higher price at the hut.

Camping is prohibited within 500 metres of the tracks. Campsites have been established near each of the huts on the circuit. Facilities at the huts can be used when camping.

Hut and camping fees go towards servicing and maintenance to ensure that these special backcountry facilities remain available. Please see the Department of Conservation visitor centres for further information and hut/campsite pass sales.

There will be hut wardens in the huts over the busy season to provide park and weather information. The huts range from 29 to 23 bunks in size.

The Tongariro Northern Circuit is considered a challengingtramp, largely on open exposed terrain, much of it on uneven track surface. It can be subject to sudden rapid weather change. You should be at least moderately fit.

If you are considering the Tongariro Northern Circuit please make sure you have goodwarm clothing, waterproof and windproof parka, leggings, comfortable well constructed hiking boots, hatand 30+ sunscreen. Jeans are not recommended!

There is rain water for drinking at the huts. Gas heating is available. You need to take cooking pot, utensils, sleeping bag, food and toilet paper. These huts cost $25 per night

It is a Great Walk and dated tickets must be purchased before you depart. Gas cookers are installed at the huts.

Times between huts are an indication only and may depend on fitness and weather conditions.

The Circuit is for hiking only – no mountain bikes are permitted.

Whakapapa to Mangatepopo Hut

Time: 3 hr

Begins 100 metres below the Whakapapa Visitor Centre at Ngauruhoe Place and along the lower Taranaki Falls track. About 20 minutes from the village the Mangatepopo track branches off the Falls track.

Heavily eroded in places the track crosses many stream beds. Ahead and to the right is Pukekaikiore, thought to be one of the older vents of the Tongariro complex. To the left is Pukeonake, a low scoria cone. Both Pukekaikiore and Pukeonake witnessed the last ice age when glaciers from Tongariro carved down through Mangatepopo Valley. The giant cone of Ngauruhoe and the flatter form of Tongariro are visible ahead. Ngauruhoe is a younger ?arasitic?cone on the side of Tongariro.

For the last hour the track skirts around Pukekaikiore until it reaches the Mangatepopo Valley. The Mangatepopo Hut is 5 minutes off the main Mangatepopo to Ketetahi Hut track.

Note that in bad weather the walk can take up to5 hours.

Mangatepopo Hut to Emerald Lake

Time: 3 hr 30 min

The track follows Mangatepopo stream up the valley, climbing over a succession of lava flows from Ngauruhoe. The youngest, very black, lava flows were erupted from Ngauruhoe in 1949 and 1954.

A five minute detour at the head of the valley leads to Soda Springs, cold springs which emerge beneath an old lava flow. In spring and summer moisture loving plants such as white foxgloves and yellow buttercups thrive in the area.

The steep climb required to reach the Mangatepopo Saddle rewards climbers views of the valley and if clear, Mt Taranaki to the west. From the saddle the track crosses South Crater, not a true crater but a drainage basin between the surrounding volcanic landforms.

Ahead more recent lava flows can be seen spilling over from Red Crater. The climb up to Red Crater offers splendid views of Oturere Valley and Kaimanawa Ranges to the east.

At the top of Red Crater a poled route to the left leads to Tongariro Summit. The main track continues on past the rim of Red Crater itself. The spectacular formation on the far side of the crater is a dike, an old magma feeding pipe to the vent of the volcano. Harder than the ash and scoria around it erosion has left it exposed on the side of the crater.

North Crater is the large flat topped crater to the north. This vent once contained a lava lake which cooled to infill the crater.

A scoria covered ridge leads down to the Emerald Lakes. These three lakes fill old explosion pits. Their brilliant colouring is caused by minerals washed down from the thermal area of Red Crater.

Just beyond Emerald Lakes the track branches right to Oturere Hut or continues straight ahead to Ketetahi Hut.

Emerald Lakes to Ketetahi Hut

Time: 1 hr 30 min

Leaving Emerald Lakes the track crosses Central Crater which like South Crater is actually another drainage basin. A short climb leads up to the ridge beside Blue Lake. Blue Lake has formed where cold fresh water fills an old vent.

The track then sidles around North Crater. Views can be had of Lakes Rotoaira (foreground) and Taupo. As the track loses altitude it enters vast areas of red tussock cloaking the hills.

The track zig-zags down to Ketetahi Hut. Please resist the temptation to take short cuts as it causes accelerated erosion.

To complete the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

From Ketetahi Hut the track continues for about two hours down through tussockland and podocarp forest to the Ketetahi carpark.

The Ketetahi Springs are on private land. Walking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing does not convey any right of access to the Springs. The Ketetahi Trust, representing the land owners, has given permission for walkers to cross part of their land. This does not include access to the Ketetahi Springs. Please respect this constraint.

Emerald Lake to Oturere Hut

Time: 1 hr 30 min

From Emerald Lakes the track descends steeply into the Oturere Valley with views of the valley, the Kaimanawa Ranges and the Rangipo Desert. The track weaves through an endless variety of unusual jagged lava forms from early eruptions from Red Crater which filled Oturere Valley.

A magical place to visit especially on a misty day. The Oturere Hut is nestled on the eastern edge of these flows.

Don””t forget to check the waterfall over the ridge from the front of the hut.

Oturere Hut to Waihohonu Hut

Time:2 hr 30 min

After leaving Oturere Hut the track undulates over a number of stream valleys and open gravel fields. Plant life here has been constantly repressed by volcanic eruptions, altitude and climate. Loose gravel means that recolonisation by plants is a slow process on the open and bare countryside.

The track gradually sidles around the foot hills of Ngauruhoe descending into a valley and crossing one of the branches of the Waihohonu Stream. Continue through a beech clad valley before climbing towards the ridge top. Waihohonu Hut is in the next valley.

Waihohonu Hut to Whakapapa Village

Time: 5 hr 30 min

The track follows the Waihohonu Stream gradually climbing to Tama Saddle. Tama Saddle is exposed and can be windy in bad weather.

On reaching the saddle a track branches to Tama Lakes, two infilled explosion craters. The lower lake is a ten minute side trip from the junction while the upper lake is up a steep ridge, a one and a half hour side trip.

Whakapapa Village is approximately two hours from the Tama Lakes junction. After the first hour the track meets the Taranaki Falls loop walk. To view the falls, follow the lower track down a flight of stairs to a boulder-ringed pool at the base of the falls. The track then continues beside Wairere Stream through mountain beech forest.

Alternatively the upper track can be taken through tussock and shrubland. Both tracks take about one hour to return to the village.

Great Walk Ticket Fees

• Fees are charged per person per night.
• Great Walk Tickets are required for the use of all huts and campsites. Tickets must be purchased before you set out on a walk. You may need to make a booking for the huts and campsites on some Great Walk tracks.Check the specific track information (links to the tracks below).
• Penalty fees of up to double the standard fee apply if pre-purchases of Tickets are not made.
• If tickets are not purchased in advance, the penalty fee for Youth, children or infants is the full adult fee. Note that while there are no fees for youth, children and infants, bookings are still required.
• Youth and children may stay at huts and campsites free of charge. Note that bookings are still required.
• Off-peak season the Backcountry Hut Pass and Backcountry Hut Tickets can be used in many huts. The fee for the Backcountry Hut Pass (valid for up to 12-months) is adults $90.00.
• Please observe maximum stay periods. Peak, 2 nights at huts or campsites; off-peak 3 nights at huts, 5 at campsites (except Milford, Abel Tasman and Heaphy Tracks). Camp only where permitted.
• The provision of hut and campsite facilities and services are heavily subsidised. Fees levied for the use of huts and campsites make a small but valuable contribution towards their maintenance. Limited discounts are available for members of approved ?ecreation Associate?organisations.

Bookings

• Required peak season only for Milford huts, Routeburn and Kepler track huts and campsites. Bookings open mid July each year.
• Required all year for Lake Waikaremoana, Abel Tasman and Heaphy Track huts and campsites.
• Not required for Whanganui Journey, Tongariro Northern Circuit and Rakiura Track huts and campsites.

So the next time you decide to travel to New Zealand, make time in your schedule for a hike so you can get out and see the real beauty of New Zealand!

For information on tours to New Zealand contact InterlineTravel.com at 800 766-2911 or in the DFW Area at metro 817 481-8631. If you call ask for their agent Sue Tippetts who is from New Zealand and is married to a retired AA pilot so she knows the country and knows all about non-reving down under! You can also reach them at www.interlinetravel.com .

Top 10 Night Clubs on the Gold Coast for Airline Employees

The Gold Coast is a city and local government area in the southeast corner of Queensland, Australia. It is the second most populous city in the state and the sixth most populous city in the country. It is also the most populous non-capital city in the country. Gold Coast City is renowned for its sunny subtropical climate, popular surfing beaches, expansive waterway and canal systems, a skyline dominated by high-rise apartment buildings, a peaceful rainforest hinterland in the west of the city, active nightlife and its wide variety of tourist attractions.

Come night time the Gold Coast offers a plethora of options for those who want to dance and party late into the night and we all know how much airline employees love a good party. If you have not partied with the Aussies, then you need to put it down on your “to-do-list”. Here is a list of the top 10 night clubs on the Gold Coast. Any of them will insure you a great time.

#1 – Drink Night Club – The Drink Nightclub is a super sexy place to spend your weekend. One of my favourite spots, they have three resident DJs to get the party started with the latest dance, R&B, and chart music to break it down, too. The Drink Nightclub is renowned for its celebrity pulling status. The main things to remember with this classy club are:
?Prestige brand drinks
?Popular/dance music, Hip Hop, R&B.
?Strict dress code
?Local and international celebrities
?Fashion and extravagance
?The ””who”’’s who”” of the Gold Coast”’’s party scene

#2 – Surfer”’’s Paradise Tavern – Great place to get a true taste of Aussie drinking. Surfers Beer Garden has a casual atmosphere, so you can relax any time of day with a drink on the terrace watching the world go by, or have a hit on the pool tables. At night the pub is host to some of Australia”’’s best live acts. Open from 10am everyday the party never stops at the Beergarden. There”’’s also a burger shack, sports bar, and gaming lounge as well.

#3 – Mybar – Mybar is the place to go for funky house, breaks, and drum and bass and a great place to get your groove on. The people are awesome and the vibe is electric. To get there find “Shooters” — it”’’s hidden underneath.

#4 – Liar”’’s Bar (and no this is not owned by an airline executive) – It may not be a giant venue, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in character. Dotted around the room in both bars (one is a sports bar) are quotes from famous people, some good conversation starters for the socially challenged and Monty Python fans alike. If you would rather sit outside and watch the world go by then that”’’s catered for as well, as are some delicious snacks.

There are big screen TVs at various locations for all the good fights on cable, failing that the music channels never fail to entertain. Live acts regularly play here thanks to the relaxed atmosphere and even the odd blues festivals take place for the hard-core fans.Cash is the preferred method of payment (it is a bar after all) and there are a number of different ATMs located throughout the building for those “big nights”. There is easy access to transport with a taxi-stand and bus stop conveniantly located right at the doorstep. For the ultimate experience try the monorail ride upstairs.

#5 – Howl at the Moon – Howl at the Moon is a restaurant/piano bar. Not only do they play great music, but the food is pretty good and the atmosphere is fantastic. With two pianos and a set of drums, the music is really good. There are people of all ages. Go for a meal and then watch the restaurant transform.

#6 – Gilhooley”’’s Irish Pub – It is a great live gig and the well-priced drinks certainly helped see the night through. Located a minutes walk from the heart of Surfers Paradise beach, and a minute away from #0952 – Tiki Village. The food also rates a mention as it serves kangaroo, which although it”’’s one ofthe national treasures, at $25 is one sumptuous dish. The rump steak isexceptional!

Cash and major credit cards are accepted in this establishment. It isn””t a massive place but is literally covered in Irish tablature and relics/knick knacks. There is a taxi stand located directly outside the front doors and bus stops a minute around the corner on the Gold Coast Highway. All in all it”’’s a great place to have a quiet drink with friends and watch life pass you by.

#7 – Cheers Tavern – Based on the TV bar of the same name, this bar has a great range of beers, local and imported. They even brew a few of their own that are sensational, Clancys being a favourite (pints for $6). There is also a restaurant with a wonderful selection of wood-fired pizzas, and a gaming area complete with a small number of “one-armed bandits.” There”’’s a sports bar upstairs with pool tables, big-screen TV for the fights, and cheap drinks. Indoor and outdoor dining, ATMs, great location in central Surfers Paradise, and lovely staff. What more could you want?

# 8 – Melbas Downtown Bar – Melbas is at the top of Cavill Avenue (opposite Tiki Village International). This bar/clubis a great place to start the night and finish the night. Downstairs is whereyou want to start. Much quieter, attracts crowds 18 to 35. It”’’s a nice place to have a few drinks with your mates/friends (you can actually hear them). The club has open windows which means there”’’s a great breeze flowing through the club. This is great for peoplewho don””t smoke and dislike getting clogged up from second hand smoke.

#9 – Conrad Jupiters Casino – Centrally located with secure parking and its own hotel, Jupiter? (as it”’’s known on the Gold Coast), has just about everything. They also have long running stage shows for those who chose not to partake in gambling. If you””re choosing to see the show, reservations are mandatory,same asfor their accommodations. Some of their restaurants even have a penchant for reserved dining, so it would be wise tocall ahead of time. There”’’s also a nightclub which is ideal for thesingle person.The Gold Coast monorail also stops here and it”’’s worth the trip just to see the casino at night! Almost any bus will take you here and taxis are plentiful. If it”’’s been a big night, try capping it off with the brief walk to Kurrawa Beach, only minutes away!

#10 – Mermaid Bowls Club – Forget the pretentious nightclubs the Gold Coast is famous for and enjoy the Coast”’’s social life with the locals. Sunday afternoon or arvo as it is called locally,is fast becoming the best day out on the coast, and a top spot is the Mermaid Bowls Club. Forget the dressing up, and don””t think you need a walking cane; at Sunday arvo, the average age must be about 22, and you could possibly get away with wearing your boxers or pajamas! Rock up with a group or by yourself and get matched up with some others — you get your bowls supplied, the rules briefly explained, and you””re off. It”’’s actually quite a good game, capable of challenging the most competitive types while at the same time being relaxed enough to forget what side the bias is.

Of course, the prices of drinks have to be the major attraction. It seems as though, because most the patrons who go there grew up in the sixties and seventies, they are content to keep the prices from those decades too. Of course, they believed in service back in the day too, so you can expect Phyllis to come round with a drinks trolley so you don””t have to walk away from your game. All in all, you have sun, sport, cheap drinks, short skirts and shorts, and not a care on the world. Best day out, without the cigarette smoke and rowdy patrons

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