Category Archives: camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing

camping trips, camping-glamping, camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing, Uncategorized

Here’s Where to Experience the Dark Night Skies at Spacious Skies Campgrounds throughout the East

Spacious Skies Balsam Woods is situated near an International Dark Sky Park.

BERNARDSVILLE, N.J.– It’s not uncommon for guests of Spacious Skies Balsam Woods in the Highlands of Central Maine to observe the aurora borealis or for campers at Spacious Skies Woodland Hills in Austerlitz, N.Y. to take in the interstellar spirals of light from the stars, gas and dust of the Milky Way.

With minimal artificial lighting and sprawling acreage bordering lakes and valleys, several locations in the Spacious Skies Campgrounds collection offer an expansive window to dark skies and starry nights.

When lifelong camping enthusiast and stargazer Ali Rasmussen founded and named Spacious Skies Campgrounds four years ago, she clearly had those dark skies and starry nights on her mind.

“Camping and glamping are about being close to the world’s natural beauty, and we urge our guests not to forget that sometimes nature’s most glorious features are the skies,” said Rasmussen. “As we acquired each campground, we imagined what it would be like to sit around a campfire and observe the skies in each location. There’s something magical and rejuvenating about stargazing that reminds you that you are not alone in the universe.”

The Spacious Skies Campgrounds collection has grown to 15 campgrounds located in the Eastern U.S., from Maine in the North to Georgia in the South.

Cosmic Monthly Themes

Every month, the campgrounds feature a new monthly theme that takes inspiration from the starry night skies. Campgrounds stage guest events – such as programs by local astronomers – decorate the campground and host other space-themed activities such as movie nights and kid-friendly scavenger hunts.

Themes include “Galactic Guardians” in May, with a focus on honoring hometown “superheroes” with activities like safety workshops and superhero movies that shine a spotlight on those who inspire and protect. In June, the theme is “Critter Constellations,” with animal-themed fun. August brings “Astro Adventures,” with space-themed fun like Zodiac nights and astronomy hikes.

Best Campgrounds for Stargazing

Here are some of the best stargazing opportunities within the Spacious Skies Campgrounds collection:

Spacious Skies Balsam Woods, Abbott, Maine. Although its location is woodsy – it is named for the fragrant balsam-coated trees and shrubs that comprise the lush forests of Central Maine – the campground is situated near an International Dark Sky Park, and there are several places throughout the campground with prime night sky viewing, including occasional views of the ribbons of color of the aurora borealis. The campground’s management team of astronomy buffs often partner with local astronomers to offer star-themed guest programs.

Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, Austerlitz, N.Y. Tucked away among the Taconic and Berkshire Mountain ranges, the best place to see the amazing spirals of the Milky Way is from the campground’s Cosmic Canine Commons, a heavenly enclosed space for four-legged guests. Local astronomers help guests identify constellations and other nighttime phenomena.

Spacious Skies Walnut Grove, Alfred, Maine. Situated near the tiny town of Alfred and with easy access to the Maine shoreline, this quiet campground features several places with unimpeded views of the night skies including its Cosmic Canine Campgrounds. On especially clear nights, guests set up blankets, sip beverages and enjoy the starry nights while their pups romp in the park.

Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views, Luray, Va. With easy access to Shenandoah National Park, many guests head to pullouts and parking lots along the park’s famous Skyline Drive for clear nighttime views. There are also several places throughout the campground with unimpeded views, including the yurt area and central sport court area with volleyball courts and a jumping pillow.

Spacious Skies French Pond, Henniker, N.H. This campground in Southern New Hampshire features RV sites situated around the pristine water of French Pond, and lucky campers can not only observe starry skies but sometimes see bonus stars in the reflections in the water.

Spacious Skies Hidden Creek, Marion, N.C. Situated near the Blue Ridge Mountains, campers here have expansive sky views from the shores of the campground’s massive Hidden Creek Lake.

Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks, North Hudson, N.Y. This Upstate New York campground is situated right on the Schroon River, and campers here can find clear night skies from anywhere along the shoreline.

Spacious Skies Seven Maples, Hancock, N.H. Located on what was once a sprawling family farm, this picturesque campground’s best nighttime viewing is from the campground’s fishing pond.

Spacious Skies Bear Den, Spruce Pine, N.C. Situated near the Blue Ridge Mountains where light pollution is minimal, this is an especially compelling spot for stargazing. Some of the best places nearby to enjoy the night sky include the campground itself, the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, the Bear Den and Chestoa View Overlooks, the historic Orchard at Altapass, the Linville Gorge Wilderness and Mayland Earth to Sky Park & Bare Dark Sky Observatory.

Spacious Skies Belle Ridge, Monterey, Tenn. Situated on more than 100 acres with open fields, cliffs and ridge views, the campground’s clifftop overlooks provide wide, unobstructed views of the night sky. Nearby options include Bee Rock Overlook, the Highland Rim & Standing Stone State Park and Cummins Falls State Park.

Ways to Save: Members of the Spacious Skies Loyalty Program, called “Cosmic Campers” can save up to 12 percent on all RV sites, cabins and other accommodations. The annual fee to join the program is $31.90. While the Loyalty Program discount cannot be combined with other discounts, the discount with the greatest savings is rewarded, providing campers with the best possible deal on their stay.

Spacious Skies Campgrounds is a fast-growing owner and operator of RV campgrounds with RV, tent, cabin and glamping sites across 15 locations from Maine to Georgia. The company’s mission is to offer a fun, relaxing and authentic campground experience in destinations with abundant outdoor recreation and attractions. Spacious Skies Campgrounds is executing a regional growth strategy while at the same time improving amenities at all properties to provide guests with consistent and reliable accommodations, service and access to the great outdoors. For more information, visit www.spaciousskiescampgrounds.com.

For more travel features, visit:

goingplacesfarandnear.com

Going Places @ longislandpress.com

www.longislandpress.com                                   

goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com

moralcompasstravel.info

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

goingplacesfarandnear.tumblr.com/

instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near/

instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

X: @TravelFeatures

Threads: @news_and_photo_features

Bluesky: @newsphotosfeatures.bsky.social

Active Travel, Adventure Travel, camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing, cycling trips, hiking, Millennial Travel, Multisport adventures, Outdoors Travel, Uncategorized

12 Guided Tours That Appeal to Active Travelers

A recent survey showed that guided tours are making a comeback among younger travelers, who value local expertise as they explore and immerse themselves in destinations. From cycling in Spain and Utah to hiking in New Zealand and Italy, Western dude ranch adventures and traditional gulet cruises in Turkey, here are 12 guided tours to excite active travelers.

1. New Zealand Guided Hiking: Explore New Zealand’s North and South Islands on foot on a new 15-day small-group tour from Adventure Life. Watch for glow worms in Waitomo’s caves, experience Māori culture and geothermal wonders in Rotorua, trek the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, enjoy the golden beaches and native forest of the Abel Tasman Coast Track, take in the glacial landscape of the Southern Alps and spot marine wildlife in Milford Sound. https://www.adventure-life.com/new-zealand/tours/18055/new-zealand-uncut-north-south-islands

​2. Girona Road and Gravel Riding: Join The Cycling House on a seven-day tour of world-class roads or less-traveled gravel paths surrounding the beautiful walled city of Girona, Spain. Girona has become a cycling mecca thanks to the many professionals who call it home between grand tours, and gravel riding there has grown tremendously in recent years, with miles of dirt roads ready to be explored. Enjoy cycling routes along the rugged Costa Brava, through farmlands and vineyards, and into the foothills of the Pyrenees, as well as accommodations in a large villa, chef-prepared meals with authentic Spanish ingredients and a few favorite local restaurants. https://thecyclinghouse.com/

3. Cruising Ancient Turkey: Travel along the coast of ancient Caria and Ionia aboard a traditional gulet and visit some of Turkey’s most important and more intimate archaeological sites on Peter Sommer Travels’ eight-day Cruising to Ephesus tour. Led by an expert guide, explore the remains of the port town of Iasos, the mountaintop sanctuary of Zeus at Labraunda, the vast ruins of Miletus, the huge Temple of Apollo at Didyma and the beautifully wooded Priene. The highlight of the tour is the magnificent Ephesus, with its monumental squares, marble roads, 25,000-seat theater, impressive Library of Celsus and remarkable Terrace Houses. https://www.petersommer.com/tours/ephesus-cruise-turkey

4. Historic Arizona Ranch Stay: Located north of Phoenix, the Kay El Bar Guest Ranch is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been hosting travelers for more than 100 years. Explore the cactus forests, slot canyons, sandy washes and rocky ridges of the Sonoran Desert and the Hassayampa River on a guided horseback ride or UTV tour, try cattle work, sport shooting or archery, or go for a hike, then unwind with a swim in the pool or a cold drink in the adobe lodge. https://www.kayelbar.com/

5. Guided Big Sky Wonders: In Big Sky, Montana, use The Wilson Hotel as a basecamp for a variety of adventures outside the northwest corner of Yellowstone National Park. When they aren’t hiking, mountain biking or skiing, guests can arrange guided tours of Yellowstone National Park’s natural wonders and wildlife in summer and winter, go fly fishing or rafting on the clear waters of the Gallatin River, or experience the thrill of dog sledding or snowmobiling. https://thewilsonhotel.com/ 

Rafting on the Gallatin River, Big Sky, Montana, just outside Yellowstone National Park © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

6. Alaska Northern Lights Adventure: On Gondwana Ecotours’ eight-day Alaska Northern Lights Adventure, guests will get a dose of local culture by day, then photograph the aurora borealis at night. Highlights of the tour include dogsledding through snowy forests, taking curling lessons from locals, enjoying a meal with homesteaders, soaking in a geothermal hot spring, learning how to photograph the aurora borealis, snowshoeing on private land, having tea with a family of reindeer herders and more. https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/northern-lights-tour-fairbanks-alaska/

7. Luxury RV and Bicycle Tours: Escape Adventures is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Blacksford Luxury RV Rentals to offer multi-day guided cycling tours by luxury RV. Using Blacksford RVs on a new selection of road and mountain biking tours, Escape Adventures will be the only travel operator to offer this elevated experience that perfectly blends the comforts of home with the thrills of active travel. The first itineraries being offered are six-day multi-sport trips in Canyonlands and Arches national parks and Moab, Utah, by road or mountain bike. Thrill seekers lacking outdoor experience or family groups will find this tour a perfect mix of adventure and tempo. https://escapeadventures.com/lodging_type/luxury-rv/

8. Play Cowboy in Big Horn Mountains: Ranchlands is excited to formally open the 80,000-acre Paintrock Canyon Ranch in the Bighorn Mountains of northern Wyoming. Guests will immerse themselves in ranch life, explore the surrounding areas on horseback, fly fish, hike and experience the natural world in this unique landscape. Accommodations are designed for guests to be as close to nature as possible, but with all the comforts of home. Large safari-style tents are stylishly furnished with full-size beds, bedside tables, dressers and chairs. And meals are prepared by a private chef and incorporate Ranchlands beef, local produce and dairy whenever possible. https://ranchlands.com/pages/explore-the-paintrock-canyon-ranch

9. Amazon and Galapagos Getaway: This adventurous 11-day journey combines two of Ecuador’s most iconic and wildlife-rich regions, the incredible Galapagos Islands and Amazon Rainforest. Scalesia Galapagos Lodge and Finch Bay Hotel will provide a comfortable base for the guided Galapagos Islands tour, with guests exploring Isabela and Santa Cruz islands and taking a yacht to other nearby islands. Guests will then visit Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest from the comfortable Sacha Lodge, going into the jungle on guided tours to discover colorful birds, fascinating reptiles, many species of monkeys and a variety of other wildlife. https://www.scalesialodge.com/programs/

10. Rafting Montana: Looking for exciting Yellowstone whitewater rafting, breathtaking Montana scenery and awesome river rafting guides? Choose from a half-day whitewater trip, full-day whitewater trip, scenic float or overnight Montana whitewater trip for thrilling and exhilarating rafting adventures. Flying Pig Adventures’ river experts ensure each trip is safe and enjoyable for all ages and experience levels. https://www.flyingpigrafting.com/white-water-rafting-yellowstone

11. Trekking Amalfi and Capri: Experience the pure magic of Italy’s Amalfi Coast and the enchanting nearby island of Capri on this seven-day hiking tour offered by Tourissimo. The fragrant lemon groves and vibrant flowers, the gentle breeze of the Mediterranean Sea, the verdant woods, and the picturesque towns perched on cliff slopes will captivate guests, much like the Sirens’ song that lured Ulysses’ sailors in Homer’s “Odyssey.” https://www.tourissimo.travel/amalfi-capri-positano-hiking

12. Jackson Hole Glamping: Wyoming’s Fireside Resort offers 25 pint-sized, luxuriously outfitted tiny house rental units designed by Wheelhaus a short distance from Grand Teton National Park and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, making it the perfect place to post up for a spring getaway. Snowshoe across Grand Teton National Park, enjoy a snowmobile tour with Scenic Safaris, or sit back and relax around a cozy fireplace. https://www.firesidejacksonhole.com/

For more travel features, visit:

goingplacesfarandnear.com

Going Places @ theisland360.com/travel

goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com

moralcompasstravel.info

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

goingplacesfarandnear.tumblr.com/

instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near/

instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures 

Active Travel, Adventure Travel, bike trips, camping trips, camping-glamping, camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing, National Parks, Uncategorized

Escape Adventures Partners with Blacksford to Offer Guided RV Cycling Tours in National Parks

Escape Adventures and Blacksford Luxury RV Rentals have formed a new partnership to offer multi-day guided cycling tours via luxury RV in national parks.

(Las Vegas, NV) — Escape Adventures and Blacksford Luxury RV Rentals have formed a new partnership to offer multi-day guided cycling tours via luxury RV. By utilizing Blacksford RVs on a new selection of road and mountain biking tours, Escape Adventures will be the only travel operator to offer this elevated experience that blends the comforts of home with the thrills of active travel. Blacksford’s service includes airport transfers, vehicle orientation, 24/7 roadside support, and even a complimentary National Parks pass.

The first itineraries being offered are six-day multi-sport trips in Canyonlands, Arches, and Moab via road bike or mountain bike. The tours start at $4,274 per person (including RV rental) and can be adapted to accommodate group-size or varied skill levels. Thrill seekers lacking outdoor experience or family groups will find this tour a perfect match of adventure and tempo. For more information, visit https://escapeadventures.com/lodging_type/luxury-rv/

“We’ve always considered ourselves pioneers of the adventure travel industry,” said Escape Adventures Founder, Jared Fisher. “We’ve done a lot of innovative things over the past 30 years, like spearheading the Aquarius Trail System and being the first mountain bike outfitter to offer tours on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. These luxury RV multi-sport tours are yet another example. This is a perfect way for our clients who love camping tours to kick it up a notch.” 
 
Blacksford offers a variety of luxury RV rentals with the amenities and space to serve unique needs. Clean, reliable, and road trip-ready, these vehicles allow guests to take the comforts of home to America’s most beautiful outdoor destinations. Each RV rental is packed with fresh linens, cozy blankets, and quality cookware. Guests will love the like-new amenities, pristine interiors, plus a few added perks, all at no extra fee. Lear more about what’s included. 
 
Moab’s backcountry provides the perfect setting for a multi-sport RV adventure. At Arches, guests will hike through a geological wonderland, where natural exhibits of pinnacles, arches, pedestals, and balancing rocks seem to defy the laws of physics. Contrasting colors, textures, and landforms distinguish the many vegetation zones of this canyon country, each offering its own kind of adventure. At Dead Horse Point and Island in the Sky, expansive views of maze-like chasms typify the biking experience along the acclaimed mesa and singletrack. Moab’s vertical landscape offers guests a fantastic introduction to canyoneering, and while the Colorado River’s power is present everywhere throughout this adventure, nowhere is it better realized than on an exciting day of river rafting.
 
“We’ve transformed the RV rental business with our blend of affordable luxury, comfortable amenities, and attentive customer service,”‘ said Blacksford CEO Becky Goodell. “This partnership with Escape Adventures feels like a perfect match. We’ll share insider travel tips, answer any questions, and ensure guests are road-ready with a comprehensive vehicle orientation. We’re here to make the experience smooth and worry-free.”

Since 1992, Escape Adventures has been blessed to shape and lead adventure travel vacations through some of the most awe-inspiring natural destinations in the world. Building on over one hundred destinations, Escape Adventures caters to the full spectrum of active travelers, respective to fitness level and activity type. From road cyclist to mountain biker to electric biker, hiker, and multi-sport enthusiast, and from first timer to friends and family groups of all ability levels, Escape Adventures looks forward to many new and exciting adventures with you. https://escapeadventures.com/
 
Blacksford RV Rentals offers brand new, premium RV and camper van rentals in Las Vegas and Yellowstone/Bozeman, Montana. Its Phoenix location will open October 1, 2024. Each rental is fully equipped and designed to cater to your every need, providing a hassle-free, comfortable, and reliable road trip experience. The rental service includes unlimited mileage, all-inclusive pricing, flexible pick-up and drop-off times, all the amenities you will need for your vacation, and 24/7 support to ensure a seamless rental experience. https://www.blacksford.com
 
For more travel features, visit:

goingplacesfarandnear.com

Going Places @ theisland360.com/travel

goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com

moralcompasstravel.info

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

goingplacesfarandnear.tumblr.com/

instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near/

instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures 

Active Travel, Adventure Travel, camping-glamping, camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Outdoors Travel, Uncategorized

Under Canvas, Backroads Team on New Glamping Adventures in National Parks

Grand Teton National Park. Under Canvas, a leader in upscale, outdoor hospitality, and Backroads, a leading luxury active travel company, are tripling their collaborative adventure experiences across US national parks © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Under Canvas, a leader in upscale, outdoor hospitality, and Backroads, a leading luxury active travel company, are tripling their collaborative adventure experiences available to travelers across U.S. National Parks over the next two years. In addition, the expanded line-up this year includes an all-new, glamping-only itinerary in Southwestern Utah with stays at both Under Canvas Bryce Canyon and Under Canvas Zion.

After first establishing a relationship in 2019 with trips in Montana’s West Yellowstone, and subsequently operating successful glamping tours in Tennessee and South Dakota, Under Canvas and Backroads are poised to further expand their trip selection for outdoor enthusiasts with more than 185 scheduled trips through 2025. From the scenic beauty of the Black Hills of South Dakota to the dramatic red rock and hoodoo vistas of Southwest Utah, to the ancient Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, these world-class trips allow guests to enjoy a Backroads active adventure by day and by night continue to immerse themselves in nature with Under Canvas’ upscale glamping retreats. These properties embrace their natural setting, while featuring indoor luxuries, allowing guests to discover the outdoors in comfort and style.

Backroads is renowned for its expert Trip Leaders and flexible active vacations that offer travelers flexibility on each day of every trip. Ample support provided by multiple Backroads vans allows for a variety of daily route options suitable for differing levels of ability. The company’s collaboration with Under Canvas pairs three favorite multi-adventure trips with accommodations at Under Canvas’s stunning camps offering gorgeous tents, furnished with plush king-size beds, luxe linens and ensuite bathrooms. In addition, a stay at Under Canvas includes onsite complimentary programming such as live acoustic music, daily yoga, stargazing, outdoor games and nightly s’mores around the firepits, as well as a lobby tent that acts as a social, communal hub for café-style dining and lounging.

Backroads trips staying at Under Canvas properties in 2024 include:

“Since opening our first camp more than 10 years ago near West Yellowstone, Under Canvas has dedicated itself to inspiring connections with extraordinary places, people and the planet by enhancing access to the outdoors,” said Libbie Rice, Chief Commercial Officer of Under Canvas. “We have enjoyed our collaboration with Backroads over the years, and we’re excited to elevate our collaboration, aiming to offer even greater opportunities for active travelers to immerse themselves in the best of outdoor adventure and connect with nature through our two brands.”

“Guest feedback from our South Dakota trips with Under Canvas has been terrific,” said Tom Hale, Backroads Founder, President & CEO. “Backroads guests love the experience of sleeping in the deluxe glamping tents and sharing tales of the day’s activities over s’mores by the campfire in the evening—it’s really the perfect ending to an adventure-filled day. Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, sleeping under the stars is a great way to enjoy a Backroads national park vacation. The trips have been a popular addition to our summer schedule, and we look forward to continuing our relationship with Under Canvas far into the future.”

Backroads trips featuring Under Canvas properties are all available for immediate booking. For more information, visit backroads.com or call 800-462-2848.

For more travel features, visit:

goingplacesfarandnear.com

Going Places @ theisland360.com/travel

goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com

moralcompasstravel.info

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

goingplacesfarandnear.tumblr.com/

instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near/

instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures 

Active Travel, Adventure Travel, camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing, Outdoors Travel

Time-Stressed Workers Will Benefit from These Epic Rafting ‘Shortcations’

Western River Expeditions and its Moab Adventure Center division, gurus of epic rafting vacations in the American West, offer a potpourri of wilderness immersions for time-stressed souls who can commit only a few days to their well-being.

SALT LAKE CITY, UT – The gurus of epic rafting vacations in the American West offer a potpourri of wilderness immersions for time-stressed souls who can commit only a few days to their well-being.
 
Western River Expeditions and its division Moab Adventure Center, recently selected as two of the top rafting companies in the U.S. by the readers of Newsweek Magazine, have fine-tuned their “shortcations” that offer most — if not all — of the time-out benefits of longer escapes.
 
“Recent findings show that 40 percent of working Americans take only 4.4 vacation days a year,” reflected Brandon Lake, CMO and co-owner. “With this in mind, we have ‘shortcation’ river rafting trips that even for a day or two will help set your batteries on high-speed recharge.”
 
Following are adventures of only three or fewer nights available for the upcoming 2024 rafting season. These journeys begin and end in the red rock playground of Moab, Utah, except for one home-based from Las Vegas, Nevada, and one leaving from Merlin, Oregon. 

Cataract Canyon Express 2-Day/1-Night Rafting Trip: Cataract Canyon, the section of the Colorado River that flows through the heart of Canyonlands National Park, may be the nation’s premier river trip in terms of excitement and diversity. This 2-day adventure is offered May through July when traditionally the river offers the most thrilling rides. Customized, high-speed rafts add to the excitement of dropping through the canyon into a series of nearly 30 whitewater rapids along this 100-mile journey. The $955 per person rate (ages 12 and up) includes transfers, rafting, hiking, one night of camping under the stars, and meals. For details on the 2-day trip, please see https://www.moabadventurecenter.com/cataract-canyon-express 

Cataract Canyon 4-Day/3-Night Rafting Trip: This longer version of the 100-mile river adventure is offered May through September with a choice of conveyance depending on the level of thrill-seeking: J-Rig, Oar Boat, or Paddle Raft.  On off-river excursions there’s time to explore Native American ruins and pictographs.  Guests seal memories of the canyon with a stunning return flight over Canyonlands National Park. The per-person rate is $1,935. The youth rate is $1,425, minimum age 12 in May and June; age 10 July through September.  Rates include transfers (including the scenic flight), rafting, hiking, three nights of camping under the stars, and meals. For details on the 4-day trip, please see https://www.westernriver.com/cataract-canyon-rafting 

Lower Grand Canyon 3-Day/2-Night River Trip:  This April through September adventure that is based out of Las Vegas traverses 89 of the river’s lower miles with enough class II and III rapids to keep everyone on their toes. Hidden waterfalls and pools carve their way down to the river frequented by Blue Heron, hawks and eagles. The per-person rate is $1,895 for ages 9 and up. Rates include a flight to the river, a scenic helicopter flight into the depths of the canyon; bus transfers from the river back to Vegas; rafting, two nights of camping under the stars, hiking, and meals. For details on this 3-day trip, please see https://www.westernriver.com/grand-canyon-river-trip 

4-Day/3-Night Moab Vacation Southwest Sampler:  This adventure, available from June through August, combines the best of the red rock playground of Moab, Utah, with a 2-night stay at the Moab Marriott and one night camping on the Colorado River. This is one of Western’s most popular family experiences. First up is a morning exploration of Arches National Park with a van and walking tour alongside knowledgeable guides. Then comes an afternoon exploration of red rock country in an off-road Hummer Safari. The following two days guests will raft through class I and II rapids on the Colorado River and experience the fun of camping overnight on the river. This adventure is open to families with children ages 5 and up. The per person rate is $895; $765 for ages 5-15. Rates include transfers to listed activities, two nights of hotel accommodations in Moab, rafting, one night of camping under the stars, and meals while on the rafting adventure.  For details, please see https://www.moabadventurecenter.com/southwest-sampler 

4-Day/3-Night Rogue River Lodge to Lodge Raft Trip, Oregon: This journey, available from May through September, offers the advantages of lodge – instead of tent – accommodations. The Rogue begins near Crater Lake in the Cascade Mountains and runs westerly through southern Oregon to the Pacific Ocean. This river remains so remote that boats still deliver the mail in some regions where the river is the only road. Wildlife sightings may include river otters, deer and black bears. Guests raft this legendary waterway along 45 miles, with whitewater classified class II-IV. There is a choice of Oar Boat, Paddle Raft, or Inflatable Kayak. The per-person rate is from $1,990 for adults and $1,920 for ages 7-16. Price includes rafting, hiking, meals, and lodging. For details, please see https://www.westernriver.com/rogue-river-lodge-trip

For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ 2024 catalog, for questions, availability and reservations, call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669) or visit the website at: http://www.westernriver.com/. For information on Moab Adventure Center programs, call 866.904.1163 or visit https://www.moabadventurecenter.com/.
 
Founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey, Western River Expeditions annually escorts more people on rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon.  In 2023 it was chosen by the readers of USA Today 10Best as the #2 rafting company in the nation. In 2024 it was selected as one of the Top rafting companies in the U.S. by the readers of Newsweek Magazine. The company is also the proud recipient of the “Best of State” award through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program for the past nineteen consecutive years (2004-2022).
 
Moab Adventure Center is the largest single tour provider in Moab, Utah. Located at 225 South Main St. in Moab, the center has a 2,000-square-foot space booking tours and selling adventure related gear, clothing, maps and souvenirs. In April 2024, it was also voted as one of the Top Five rafting companies in the nation by the readers of Newsweek Magazine.

For more travel features, visit:

goingplacesfarandnear.com

Going Places @ theisland360.com/travel

goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com

moralcompasstravel.info

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

goingplacesfarandnear.tumblr.com/

instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near/

instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures 

Active Travel, Adventure Travel, camping-glamping, camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing, cycling trips, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

5 Montana National Parks Tours

The phenomenal Grand Prismatic in Yellowstone National Park. There are a variety of ways to experience one of America’s most popular parks © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Here are a 5 exciting ways to explore Montana and its most popular National Parks. 

Explore Yellowstone and Glacier by RV: Discover the natural beauty of Yellowstone, Glacier, and more with the comfort and convenience of a new Winnebago RV, you’ll have the freedom to travel at your own pace and experience the great outdoors like never before. Based in Bozeman, MT, Blacksford’s brand new, luxury RVs and camper vans are low-mileage and impeccably maintained, ensuring a safe and worry-free trip. They offer flexible pick-up and drop-off times, all the amenities you’ll need for a fantastic vacation, and support to ensure a seamless rental experience. 

Saddle and Paddle Yellowstone: Flying Pig Adventures’ 3-night Yellowstone tour gives guests the opportunity to experience the park like never before. The thrill of witnessing one of nature’s most iconic environments, tackling rough terrain on horseback, and battling Class III rapids cannot be found anywhere else. From fly fishing, to horseback rides, to Yellowstone whitewater rafting, guests will be talking about their unique experiences for years to come. 

Cycle Glacier National Park: The Big Sky meets six days of big smiles on Escape Adventures’ epic Glacier National Park/Going-to-the-Sun Road bike trip. Based in Montana’s 1,583-square-mile Glacier National Park, with its 375 historic properties plus six historic landmarks, riders will cycle into some of North America’s most breathtaking landscapes, including Going-to-the-Sun Road. At each stop, each slow pass, guests will learn a little more about the “Crown of the Continent” ecosystem. 

Big Sky Luxury Adventure: In Big Sky, Montana, The Wilson Hotel serves as a base camp for adventure whether it’s winter or summer. Guests can ski and snowboard Big Sky Resort’s expansive 5,850 acres of terrain in winter, and hike nearby shaded forests and wildflower-filled meadows, raft or fly fish the clear waters of the Gallatin River, and experience the adrenaline rush of lift-served mountain biking in summer. At the end of the day, The Wilson offers spacious, sophisticated accommodations steps from on-site amenities and Big Sky Town Center. 

Glamping Cowboy Retreat:  Ranchlands is excited to formally open the 80,000-acre Paintrock Canyon Ranch in the Bighorn Mountains. Guests will immerse themselves in ranch life, explore the surrounding areas on horseback, fly fish, hike, and experience the natural world in this unique landscape. Accommodations are designed for guests to be as close to nature as possible, but with all the comforts of home. Large, safari-style tents are stylishly furnished with full-sized beds, bedside tables, dressers, and chairs. Meals are prepared by a private chef and incorporate Ranchlands beef, local produce, and dairy whenever possible. The ranch makes a great base camp for a Yellowstone National Park adventure.

For more travel features, visit:

goingplacesfarandnear.com

Going Places @ theisland360.com/travel

goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com

moralcompasstravel.info

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

goingplacesfarandnear.tumblr.com/

instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near/

instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures 

Active Travel, camping trips, camping-glamping, camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing, Gift of Travel, Outdoor travel experiences

Steeped Coffee Wins USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Award for Best Gift for Outdoor Adventurers

You can enjoy the convenience, luxury and sustainability of fine coffee on a camping trip with Steeped Coffee, which won USA Today honors as Best Gift for Outdoor Adventurers  © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Santa Cruz, California – Steeped Coffee(R), the innovator behind the SteepedTM Brew Bag Method, was named USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Award recipient for Best Gift for Outdoor Adventurers. This prestigious award from one of the nation’s leading news platforms celebrates Steeped Coffee’s commitment to quality, convenience, and sustainability, making it the perfect accessory for outdoor enthusiasts.

The nominees for Best Gift for Outdoor Adventurers were submitted by a panel of experts and then selected by USA TODAY’s 10Best editors before being shortlisted for voting by the public. Of the 20 nominees, Steeped Coffee was voted #1 by consumers who recognized Steeped Coffee’s outstanding contribution to the outdoor experience.

Steeped Coffee’s innovation lies in its SteepedTM Brew Bag Method – a simple, yet elegant brewing solution similar to brewing tea, providing outdoor adventurers with delicious specialty coffee without the need for heavy brewing equipment. Each brew bag is filled with meticulously sourced, craft-roasted beans that are precision-ground and triple nitro-sealed for unbeatable freshness and superior flavor. With the entire packaging – both the inner brew bags and the outer packs – being commercially compostable, adventurers can enjoy the highest-quality coffee while leaving no trace behind.

“We are beyond thrilled to be chosen by USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Award as the Best Gift for Outdoor Adventurers,” said Josh Wilbur, CEO and Founder of Steeped Coffee. “Our mission has always been to provide a simple, yet exceptional coffee experience that aligns with the adventurous lifestyles of our customers, without compromising the planet. This recognition is a testament to our efforts and the perfect indicator that our game-changing brew method is hitting the mark.”

The best-selling variety pack, The Lineup, offers outdoor and coffee enthusiasts a collection of Steeped Coffee’s most popular roasts, ensuring that every preference is catered to, even in the wilderness. The Lineup features the following roasts:

  • Sunrise Blend: A signature light roast with vibrant notes of toffee, cocoa nib, and lemon-lime
  • California Blend: A classically-inspired medium roast with hints of roasted nuts and chocolate
  • Odyssey Blend: A robust dark roast with savory and earthy undertones
  • Breakwater Blend: A full-bodied French roast with subtle sweetness and smoky notes

Buy directly from the site (www.steepedcoffee.com) where you can take advantage of 15% off holiday discount (code Coffee15), or on Amazon.

Based in Santa Cruz, California, Steeped Coffee is a Certified B Corp and Benefit Corporation helping to make great-tasting craft coffee more accessible, more ethical, and more sustainable through its patent-pending SteepedTM Brew Bag Method. The proprietary method brews coffee similarly to tea in pre-portioned compostable coffee bags, allowing coffee lovers to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee anytime, anywhere. Licensed to over 500 of the top specialty roasters around the globe, the SteepedTM Brew Bag Method is the easiest way to make a perfect cup of coffee by simply adding water without pods, plugs, or expensive equipment.

For more travel features, visit:

goingplacesfarandnear.com

Going Places @ theisland360.com

goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com

moralcompasstravel.info

www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

goingplacesfarandnear.tumblr.com/

instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near/

instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/KarenBRubin

Twitter: @TravelFeatures 

camping trips, camping-glamping, camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing, New York State tourism, Uncategorized

Reservations Now Available at 7 NYS Campgrounds for Prime Viewing of 2024 Solar Eclipse

New York State has opened reservations at seven state park campgrounds, including Letchworth,  for prime viewing of the rare total solar eclipse in April 2024 The early opening for reservations will help accommodate an expected influx of visitors heading to several regions of the state to witness the celestial event.(c) Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

New York State has opened reservations at seven state park campgrounds for prime viewing of the rare total solar eclipse in April 2024 The early opening for reservations will help accommodate an expected influx of visitors heading to several regions of the state to witness the celestial event.

“Next year, New Yorkers and visitors alike will have the opportunity to witness an extraordinary, celestial show in our state as the solar eclipse passes over the heart of Western New York, the Finger Lakes, and the Adirondacks in 2024,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “Our State Parks will open campground accommodations early, prior to the traditional camping season, to ensure people can see this amazing display in one of New York’s beautiful natural settings. I encourage all who are interested to reserve their spot beginning this week for this incredible event.” 

Starting the week of July 3, 2023, reservations will become available from State Parks at a total of 335 campsites, cottages and cabins stretching across eight counties in western, central, and northern New York. On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will trace a narrow path of totality across 15 U.S. states, including much of western and upstate New York. For visitors with reservations for the night of April 8, check-out time is 11:00 a.m. the following morning, so visitors can avoid traffic and enjoy the attractions of the region after the eclipse.

“Visitors not only will get a chance to see this inspiring cosmic display – which won’t happen again in the continental U.S. until 2044 – they will also be able to enjoy the beauty of early spring in some of our most beautiful State Parks and see how we are continuing to enhance our accommodations,” New York State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said,

Reservations can be made nine months in advance for a minimum of two nights through ReserveAmerica.com.

Sites will be available April 4-8 at the following State Parks:

  • Allegany State Park, 2373 ASP, Rte 1, Salamanca, NY 14779 (Allegany County), for 165 sites, including campsites, cabins, cottages, and a group camp. New reservations open July 4.
  • Fair Haven Beach State Park, 14985 State Park Road, Fair Haven, NY 13064 (Cayuga County) for 29 cabins and one cottage. Reservations open July 5.
  • Letchworth State Park, 1 Letchworth State Park, Castile, NY 14427 (Livingston/Wyoming counties) for 19 cabins and cottages. Reservations open July 5.
  • Evangola State Park, 10191 Old Lake Shore Road, Irving, NY 14081 (Erie County) for 25 campsites. Reservations open July 5.
  • Four Mile Creek State Park, 1055 Lake Road, Youngstown, NY 14174 (Niagara County) for 50 campsites. Reservations open July 5.
  • Golden Hill State Park, 9691 Lower Lake Road, Barker, NY 14012 (Niagara County) for 25 campsites. Reservations open July 5.
  • Wellesley Island State Park, 44927 Cross Island Road, Fineview, NY 13640 (Jefferson County) for 21 cabins and cottages. New reservations open July 5.

In the U.S., the eclipse will pass northeast through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. The eclipse will begin in western New York shortly after 2 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. Full totality will begin in Chautauqua County at 3:17 p.m., moving through the state to Plattsburgh at 3:25 p.m.. Locations in the path of totality could experience total darkness for up to 4 minutes. The eclipse will then enter Canada in southern Ontario, and continue through Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Cape Breton.

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will not be until August 2044.

A total solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and earth, completely blocking the face of the sun. People viewing the eclipse from locations where the moon’s shadow completely covers the Sun – known as the path of totality – will experience a total solar eclipse. The sky will become dark, as if it were dawn or dusk. Weather permitting, people along the path of totality will see the sun’s corona, or outer atmosphere, which is usually obscured by the bright face of the sun.

Except during the brief total phase of a total solar eclipse, when the moon completely blocks the sun’s bright face, it is unsafe to look directly at the sun without specialized eye protection for solar viewing. According to NASA, viewing any part of the sun through a camera lens, binoculars, or a telescope without a special-purpose solar filter secured over the front of the optics will instantly cause severe eye injury. The partial phases of the solar eclipse can only be safely observed directly with specialized solar viewing glasses (“eclipse glasses”) or a handheld solar viewer. Regular sunglasses, polarized or otherwise, are not a safe replacement for solar eclipse glasses.

For more information about the 2024 Total Eclipse in New York State, visit https://www.iloveny.com/events/eclipse-2024/.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which in 2022 were visited by record 79.5 million people. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit www.parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer mobile app or call 518.474.0456. Also, connect on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

See: DRIVEABLE ADVENTURES: HIKING/CAMPING IN THE ‘GRAND CANYON OF THE EAST’ – NY’S LETCHWORTH STATE PARK

For more travel features, visit:

goingplacesfarandnear.com

Going Places @ theisland360.com

goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com

moralcompasstravel.info

www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

goingplacesfarandnear.tumblr.com/

instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near/

instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/KarenBRubin

Twitter: @TravelFeaturesFacebook Twitter LinkedIn

Active Travel, camping-glamping, camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing, dude ranches, Uncategorized

Go Glamping Dude Ranch Style!

At Goosewing Ranch, Wyoming, glamping means staying in a custom, handcrafted wagon with a dedicated chef, wrangler, and event coordinator at your service.

Cody, WY – Some call it glamorous camping, others call it luxury camping, but what better way to experience the Wild West? Several guest (dude) ranches now offer the opportunity to get off the beaten path and truly get out into nature by sleeping under the stars. What really makes these glamping options special is that they are all all-inclusive –  meals, lodging, horseback riding, and other activities are all included.

Bar W Guest Ranch – Montana

Bar W Guest Ranch offers an unforgettable glamping experience right outside of Glacier National Park. Each of the four luxury canvas tents has a queen size bed, handcrafted log futon, private porch, refrigerator, and coffee maker. Don’t worry–your private, heated bathroom is located just a few feet from your tent. Grab your coffee, sit back, and relax while you watch the horses graze in the meadow from your own front porch.

C Lazy U Ranch – Colorado

Glamping at C Lazy U Ranch will no doubt top the list as your most memorable accommodation set-ups! A ranch hand will guide you to your Conestoga Wagon where the great outdoors (and a s’mores kit!) await you. After an evening around the fire, cozy up in your king-size bed made with luxurious linens and let the sounds of peace and serenity drift you to sleep.

Flat Creek Ranch – Wyoming

For the more adventurous glampers, visit Flat Creek Ranch! Ride into the backcountry by horseback and take in views of the Tetons and Wind River mountain ranges, Cache Peak, and the headwaters of Flat Creek. After a good night’s sleep in your cozy, canvas tent under the stars, you will wake up to coffee brought to your tent. A hardy breakfast will leave you well rested and ready for your ride back to the ranch!

Stagecoach Trails Guest Ranch – Arizona

Experience the best of the Southwest from a pioneer wagon at Stagecoach Trails Guest Ranch. This wagon can comfortably sleep five with a king-size bed and three bunk beds and has electricity, air conditioning, and heat to ensure a relaxing stay under the stars. Private bathrooms and showers are provided nearby. These wagons are a once-in-a-lifetime experience

Greenhorn Ranch – California

Tucked away in a discrete part of Greenhorn Ranch, awaits a charming 1972 Airstream. This fully restored camper, located along a seasonal creek, takes glamping to a whole new level! The soothing white classic is complete with a queen bed, small fridge, and a streamlined bathroom. Sit under the stars on your private deck and enjoy California glamping at its finest.

Bull Hill Guest Ranch – Washington

Glamping at Bull Hill Guest Ranch brings back a tradition that began when the ranch first opened in 1995. Beautifully furnished with two comfy queen beds, these tents are ideal for young couples, families, or those seeking privacy with a romantic twist. Each glamping tent has its own private bathroom 100 feet away as well as power, heat, and fans to keep you cool in the summer.

Goosewing Ranch – Wyoming

Get away from the world and internet-and cell service for that matter-and truly unwind while glamping at Goosewing Ranch! Three of their custom, handcrafted wagons can sleep up to five guests, while the fourth wagon with a king-size bed will make for the perfect romantic getaway for a couple. This is glamping, not camping, so you will have a dedicated chef, wrangler, and event coordinator at your service!

Glamping at a dude ranch is the new favorite way to relax and unwind while on vacation. Which ranch do you want to visit? Need help narrowing down the options further? Contact the experts at the Dude Ranchers Association. 

See the full list of The Dude Ranchers’ Associations’ ranches using the Find a Ranch tool or choose a ranch by location.

Contact the Dude Ranchers Association, 1122 12th St., Cody, WY 82414, [email protected], 307-587-2339.

For more travel features, visit:

goingplacesfarandnear.com

Going Places @ theisland360.com

goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com

moralcompasstravel.info

www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

goingplacesfarandnear.tumblr.com/

instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near/

instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures

Active Travel, Adventure Travel, bike trips, camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing, cycling trips, Fall travel, family-friendly adventures, Hotels & Resorts, Outdoor travel experiences, Outdoors Travel, Uncategorized

8 Fall Vacations for Foliage, Fewer Crowds & Stunning Scenery

Ziplining at the Red Reflet Ranch, Ten Sleep, Wyoming, just one of the activities at the all-inclusive guest ranch (c) Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Cool weather, brightly colored foliage, and destinations largely free from crowds make fall the perfect time to travel. Here are eight vacation ideas for the months ahead, ranging from the mountains of Montana to the Natchez Trace and even the Galapagos Islands

1. Pacific Coast Cycling: The Pacific Coast Route is one of America’s premier cycling routes and autumn is an optimal time to avoid heavy tourist traffic. Pedal south through the lush forests of western Washington before following the Columbia River to the Oregon coast, then enter California and encounter massive redwoods coastal headlands and sandy beaches with bike paths. Ride the route on your own with maps from Adventure Cycling Association, or join other on a tour.
 
2. Fall Under the Big Sky: A visit to Big Sky, Montana, and stay at The Wilson Hotel offers the opportunity for fall adventures in Yellowstone country, as elk bugle and pockets of aspen trees turn golden against the backdrop of the green forest. Hike and mountain bike trails surrounding town, fish the famed Gallatin River or take one last tour of Yellowstone National Park’s natural wonders and wildlife before roads close for the season.
 
3. Traffic-Free Natchez Trace: The Natchez Trace is a historic travel corridor through Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi used by American Indians, settlers, soldiers and future presidents. And with no commercial traffic, the Natchez Trace Parkway is a cyclist’s dream come true. Join Cycle of Life Adventures for a fall tour to enjoy the changing colors of maple, hickory, oak and other hardwood trees, milder temperatures and overnight accommodations in small towns along the parkway.
 
4. National Parks RV Trip: National parks saw record crowds over the summer, but now that fall is here it’s a great time to visit for fewer crowds, less traffic and pleasant temperatures. Blacksford rents fully stocked Mercedes-Benz Sprinter overland adventure vehicles from Winnebago with an all-inclusive pricing model that includes unlimited miles, no generator fees, bedding, kitchen and bath supplies, free Wi-Fi, a free annual pass to the national parks and 24-hour roadside assistance.
 
5. Arizona + Black Canyon Mountain Biking: Explore all the Sonoran Desert has to offer with the Best of Phoenix and Black Canyon Trail Mountain Biking Tour from Escape Adventures. This trip is ideal for close groups of biking friends looking for a warm fall or winter excursion. Highlights include exploring the 21,099-acre McDowell Mountain regional park, riding conservancy lands and ripping more than 40-miles of fast and flowy singletrack.
 
6. Jackson Hole Glamping: Wyoming’s Fireside Resort offers 25 pint-sized, luxuriously outfitted tiny house rental units designed by Wheelhaus. The resort is located a short distance from Grand Teton National Park and the Jackson Hole ski slopes, making it the perfect place to post up for a fall getaway or winter ski trip.
 
7. Play Cowboy at a Dude Ranch: Red Reflet Ranch is a 28,000-acre luxury resort and working ranch on the west slope of the Bighorn Mountains, just three hours from Yellowstone National Park. Guests stay in private chalets and enjoy family-friendly activities like horseback riding, ATVing, ziplining, swimming, hiking, fishing, shooting and feasting on farm-to-table cuisine.
 
8. Autumn Galapagos Adventure: Fall is one of the best times of year to visit Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands, particularly when it comes to wildlife and weather. The Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel has joined forces with Scalesia Galapagos Lodge to offer a new weeklong program that includes day trips aboard Yacht Sea Lion, glamping in luxury tents on Isabela Island and visits to remote and mysterious places that illustrate the incredible diversity of the archipelago.

For more travel features, visit:

goingplacesfarandnear.com

goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com

moralcompasstravel.info

www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

goingplacesfarandnear.tumblr.com/

instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures