Sunday, October 30, 2011

Eyeflare - Travel Articles and Tips

Eyeflare - Travel Articles and Tips


Ski in Whistler & Blackcomb, Canada

Posted: 30 Oct 2011 02:00 AM PDT

Skiing off-piste in Whistler, Canada

Not only is Whistler Blackcomb a heaven on earth for skiers and snowboarders, but it is also the ultimate year-round destination for families looking for a unique, exciting and memorable vacation. One of the largest and most frequented ski resorts in North America, Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Canada is chock full of family-friendly fun and activities, no matter the season or weather.

The best way to acquaint yourself with the surroundings is by taking a ride on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. This technological marvel is the highest and longest continuous lift system of its kind on the planet. Revel in the breathtaking panoramic views as you travel 4.4 kilometers from Whistler Mountain to Blackcomb Mountain at a height of 436 meters. Each season offers its own magnificent vistas.

If all that fresh air is giving you an appetite, you can dine in splendor atop either mountain at your choice of a variety of fine restaurants. From Vietnamese to southwest to traditional comfort fare, everyone in your party can order his or her favorite dish while continuing to enjoy the truly remarkable Alpine atmosphere and scenery.

Whistler Blackcomb ski runs

When you're ready for some activity, Whistler Blackcomb is more than prepared to indulge your desires. Are some members of your group inexperienced skiers or snowboarders? No problem. Private lessons from worldwide pros are available for both adults and children, or you can learn at your own pace in the safety of the Family Zone on Whistler Mountain. If skiing and snowboarding aren't your thing, take a ride down Whistler Mountain at the Coca-Cola Tube Park, explore the Magic Castle on Blackcomb or take in the dazzling Fire and Ice show at the base of the Whistler Mountain Gondola.

If you are visiting Whistler Blackcomb in the spring, summer or fall, take a scenic and exciting ride through the Whistler Mountain Bike Park. From the Easy Does It trail for novices to the Double Vision trail for experts, the bike park offers lots of thrills – but hopefully no spills! – for everyone in your party. A great way to counter an exhilarating day of bike riding is by following it up with a relaxing bear or ecology tour. Visit a glacier, keep your eyes peeled for black bears and other wildlife, or learn about the area's delicate ecosystem while walking on foot or riding a 4X4.

Tour onto Blackcomb Glacier

Still haven't had enough of Whistler Blackcomb? Play 18 holes at golf courses designed by Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, hike one of 18 picturesque trails, walk across a glacier, go mountain climbing or ziplining, or let your children burn off their excess energy in the Adventure Zone, featuring a luge, a bungy trampoline, a giant maze, a bounce castle, and more. In addition, special events such as movies, concerts, and sports competitions run all year long. A trip to Whistler Blackcomb isn't just a vacation – it's an adventure.

Whistler Blackcomb location

Whistler Blackcomb
4545 Blackcomb Way, Whistler BC
Canada V0N 1B4

Photo by runningclouds (1), dburka (2), and Tim in Sydney (3) on flickr

This is originally posted at http://www.eyeflare.com/article/ski-whistler-blackcomb-canada/

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Website tip: Liftopia.com

The San Blas Islands, Panama

Posted: 29 Oct 2011 02:00 AM PDT

A pristine island in the San Blas archipelago

If you're looking for a vacation to somewhere that has beautiful white-sand beaches, crystal blue water, and palm trees, then the San Blas Islands, Panama, might be for you. The "might” is the key word here, however, as you should not plan a trip to the San Blas Islands if you're looking to stay at a ten-story resort hotel with a pool bar and daily parasailing trips. The San Blas Islands are a rare idyllic beach destination, meaning that they remain relatively untouched by the conveniences of modern living.

The San Blas Islands are an archipelago of 378 islands, set in the Caribbean off the coast of Panama. Only 49 of the islands are occupied. The occupants are a native tribe known as the Kuna Yala. Don't get the wrong idea, the Kuna are a friendly people and accept tourists with open arms. Despite tourism, however, they have maintained their indigenous customs. One example of this is how limited electricity is on the islands. Only some homes and hotels have it, but even those that do often only run generators during the day and then go dark at night.

The Kuna, however, have a fascinating tradition that is evident in their colorful dress and the crafts that they sell to visitors on the island. The San Blas Islands are home to tropical fish and wildlife, and are surrounded by colorful coral reefs. One can arrive on the islands by boat, plane, or land. The trip by boat from Colombia can take about five days, and those interested would be wise to ensure their vessel has adequate space for all its passengers before stepping on board! The San Blas Islands are a rare rustic destination that boast an untouched beauty found in few other places. One just must be certain they are seeking an experience that is not exactly Club Med and has a little taste of "Survivor.”

Photo by whl.travel on flickr

This is originally posted at http://www.eyeflare.com/article/san-blas-islands-panama/

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