Blue Maroon

Punta Del Este, Uruguay

2009-12-09T04:05:00.003+08:00

Summer In Punta Del Este

Returning to Punta Del Este, after being there during the winter, was like returning to a ghost-town and finding it filled with people laughing, drinking, sunning, and enjoying every moment.

The wealthy set from all over South America and the world descend on Punta Del Este immediately after Christmas and the party lasts for a few months.

Punta Del Este reminds me of South Beach in Miami, with tall buildings overlooking the beaches. And, like South Beach, it is filled with beautiful Latin people (be sure to learn some Spanish before you go so that you can talk to all of them!).

Word on the streets in Uruguay was that the Brazilians take over Punta Del Este during the first 15 days of the season (December 26-Jan 10) and, after that, you will find predominantly Argentineans. There are also Uruguayans of course but many prefer the more tranquil and reasonably-priced beaches of Cabo Polonio, Rocha, and Punta Del Diablo.

But the place to see and be seen is Punta Del Este. Don’t believe me, believe E!:

The Beaches in Punta Del Este

As a peninsula, Punta Del Este offers two types of beaches: the bay side and the ocean facing side. You will often hear people refer to Playa Mansa (bayside) and Playa Brava (oceanside). The bayside offers a bit more tranquility with less wind and waves. The beaches on the ocean side are more expansive and there is plenty of room to move, play football (or futbol), and roam around looking at the various sites.

Often, you will hear people say, “Meet us at the beach at stop 16.” All the beaches are numbered, numbers which you can see along the street, and many people have their favorite number.

Bikini Beach in Punta Del Este

Whoever woefully said, “today’s bikinis don’t leave much to the imagination” is woefully short of imagination.

After seeing the bikinis in Bikini Beach just outside of Punta Del Este, I have nothing but positive reviews of the South American style bikini. The way it hugs the curves of a woman and exhibits their fine physique certainly doesn’t leave me short of imagination. Au Contraire–it feeds the imagination.

Any visit to Punta Del Este is incomplete without a visit to Bikini Beach. View some of the bikini beach photos below and, if that doesn’t entice a visit, you too may be woefully short on imagination:

Want to look great in a bikini?

Nightlife In Punta Del Este

The local catchphrase: “There’s always time to sleep in the winter!”

If you are from North America, or Europe, and you are reading this: Be Prepared. Nightlife in Punta Del Este truly begins at about 2am or later.

I remember asking some friends in Uruguay: “If you go out at 2am, and arrive home at 8 or 9 in the morning, how do you enjoy the beach during the day?”

“Well,” came the collective response, “we still go to the beach everyday.”

This is true. However, I realized the term day has significant elasticity here. To many in Punta Del Este, the beach day begins at about 2 or 3pm in the afternoon. If you are an early riser, you will be heading out the door in the morning before most party-goers get home from their evening.

Don’t believe me?

One night we were going out to the clubs and my friend said, “oh, I forgot my sunglasses.” Sunglasses at the bar? Is your Future So Bright You Have to Wear Shades? No! The hipsters all know that they’ll be leaving the clubs when the sun is coming out and so they’ll need their sunglasses for the homeward journey.

For many, nightlife in Punta Del Este does not take place in Punta Del Este; nightlife happens in La Barra, a small town about 10-15 minutes outside of Punta Del Este filled with many different bars and discos. If you don’t have a car, you can get there by bus. Or, if you are female, there are many cars who will eagerly escort you from Punta Del Este to La Barra. Just look your finest because the competition is fierce.

My friends and I ventured out in Punta Del Este many times as well. There are many bars in the port area and along the beaches that are packed with beautiful people every night. View the links below for the hot nightspots in either place.

Punta Del Este Sunsets

Since the nightlife continues well into the day, our schedule included many Punta Del Este sunsets. We would wake up to hit the beach during the day (at about 3pm) and then take in the sunsets along Playa Mansa, just in front of the Conrad Hotel.

After the sunsets at about 9:15, it would be time for a little nap before the nightlife. Napping at 9pm? In your workweek vernacular, you might refer to this as a paradigm shift.

Embrace the shift-it’s well worth it!

Cabo Polonio, Uruguay

2009-12-09T03:56:00.001+08:00

Cabo Polonio, Uruguay

Punta del Este may be Uruguay's most famous beach resort, but the South Beach-meets-South America feel of the place hardly screams, "Off the beaten path."

Ask an Uruguayan to point you in the direction of a beach after his or her own heart, and you can bet it will be located in the laid-back department of Rocha.

Situated a few miles off the highway, the tiny peninsula village of Cabo Polonio is accessed by 4-wheel drive trucks or horseback, which transport visitors over the dunes to a hidden beach.

Electricity and running water - only delivered to a few places by rainwater and the odd generator - are rare commodities here. There are a few posadas(rustic motels), and most of the block-style vacation bungalows dotting the dunes are lit with candles at night. The long, sandy beach - popular with windsurfers from around the world - is rugged and totally undeveloped. On one side of the peninsula the ocean pounds the shore, while the other side offers a sheltered crescent of beach more suited to swimming.

STAY: Rent your own private beach bungalow for a few nights or by the week. Most online information about rentals online is in Spanish, so consider contacting the country's Ministry of Tourism for assistance with bookings. The oceanfront rooms at Posadoy Parador La Canada have hot-water showers, and there's a communal kitchen.

EAT: There are a few restaurants in Cabo Polonio, but most folks cook in (bungalows are usually equipped with gas burners or outdoor grills). There's a small grocery store with very limited supplies, so it's best to bring the bulk of your food with you.

Beaches of Mauritius

2009-12-09T03:07:00.002+08:00

An island nation in southwest Indian Ocean, Mauritius is renowned the world over for its natural charm and beautiful beaches. While the country is endowed with exquisite beauty and unspoilt elegance, beaches in Mauritius do have their own appeal. It is no secret that the country is visited by a substantial number of tourists from all across the world and for most of them, the lure of Mauritius beaches is simply too big to resist.

The beaches in Mauritius are beautiful with spectacular white sand and pristine water all around it. The Belle Mare is a white sandyMauritian beach that boasts of a deep lagoon at the eastern coast while Mont Choicy is a beautiful long beach at the northern coast and is known for a great collection of Filao trees. Riviere Noire is the center of deep sea fishing in Mauritius. Pointe aux Piments is one for people enjoying the quite and cozy warmth of the seashore

However, it is the Grand Baie that is one of the biggest pulls for visitors to Mauritius. Shops for a wonderful shopping experience, restaurants with all sorts of popular and delectable dishes including a collection of seafood's and hotels catering to most of the requirements of the guests, all are available here. Discotheques and bars are there too and tour operators in Mauritius organize a number of sea excursions from this beach too. And to give you the thrills of a lifetime, amenities for all kind of water sports are available so as to give the guests a wonderful sojourn in the country. From business executives to honeymoon couples, all make a beeline to Grand Baie in Mauritius.

Blue Bay is acknowledged as an important center of water sports in Mauritius. Surfing, sailing and snorkeling are widely popular here. The Flic-en-Flac with a beautiful lagoon has a range of shops, restaurants and hotels. Baie du Tamarin offers a picturesque view of the landscape and Baie de Tombeau beach is overgrown with cocos.

Beaches of New Caledonia

2009-12-06T04:45:00.005+08:00

New Caledonia (French:Nouvelle-Caledonie) is a dependent overseas territory of France lying in the western Pacific Ocean, in the Coral Sea, to the east of Australia and west of Vanuatu. The territory consists of the main island of Grand Terre, the archipelago of the Loyalty Islands (Iles Loyaute), and numerous small, sparsely populated islands and atolls.

New Caledonia offers beaches, mountaintop fondue in chalets, camping, amazing snorkeling and diving, and fabulous French food.

New Caledonia includes:

Grande Terre - The main island. It is one of the largest islands in the Pacific. The barrier reef lying off New Caledonia is second only to the Great Barrier Reef in size.

The main tourist destinations are:

Île des Pins - Was one of the few places in the Pacific with trees tall and sturdy enough to provide replacement masts for ships.

Loyalty Islands (Iles Loyaute)

Climate

New Caledonia has a semi-tropical climate, modified by southeast trade winds. It is often hot and humid in January and February. The islands are subject to tropical cyclones, most frequent from November to March. During winter (April to August) the daytime temperature is around 22 degrees. The water may still be warm, but it often feels too cool to really want to go swimming.

Geography

The main island of New Caledonia is one of the largest in the Pacific Ocean and its terrain consist of coastal plains with interior mountains. The highest point is Mont Panie (1,628 m).

Grand Terre is rich in minerals, and is an important source of many ores, mainly nickel and chromium. There is a mountainous interior green with subtropical foliage. The outlying islands are coral-based, and have stunning white sand, and sport palm trees.

Get in By plane

New Caledonia Airport (IATA: NOU) (ICAO: NWWW), in Païta, 52km northwest of the capital city of Noumea, (687) 35 11 18, [www.cci-nc.com/tontouta] Air France provides direct flights from Paris. Regular flights are available from Tokyo on Aircalin, as New Caledonia is very popular with the Japanese. Air New Zealand and Qantas also serve the airport. There are also flights from various Pacific nations, New Zealand, Australia, and Southeast Asia. However, there aren't many flights overall, so beware of availability. There is little or no competition on routes, so be very wary of high flight prices.

Noumea-Magenta Airport (IATA: GEA) , 4 km from the city center, (687) 25 14 00. Serves all domestic flights within New Caledonia, such as the Loyalty Islands (Maré, Tiga, Lifou, Ouvéa), from Isle of Pines in the south to Belep Islands in the northern tip of the mainland as well as Koné and Koumac on the west coast and Touho on the east coast.

By boat

Noumea is a popular port of call for people sailing around the Pacific, though most dare not sail during cyclone season.

Snorkeling, diving, windsurfing

Îlot Canard just outside the Anse Vata is a good place for beginners

Aguille de Prony is an amazing underwater structure in the Prony bay south of Noumea

relaxing, tanning, and generally doing nothing.

Baie des Citrons and the Anse Vata are common beaches at the Noumea peninsula

Îlot Maitre has a resort. This can be reached by taxi boat from the Anse Vata, and by boat from the Baie de Mouselle

Numerous other tourist resorts can be found throughout the Grande Terre and Île des Pins

eating French and local cuisine

hiking, camping

Parc Rivière Bleu in the Yaté region south of Noumea

Joining a hiking group is generally a good idea, since you then can really enjoy the great scenery without fear of getting lost, or having to stick with conventional tourist spots.... cat

Yacht charter New Caledonia [1] Windward Islands, one of the worlds largest yacht charter companies, can take care of all charter requirements, from bareboat to luxury yacht in New Caledonia and Vanuatu. Operating from different offices worldwide (UK, USA, Honk Kong, Dubai, Germany, Italy, France, Spain and Switzerland).

New Caledonia's greatest attraction is its beaches. All over New Caledonia one will find quiet lagoons and white sand perfection. You can venture to the world's biggest lagoon and explore the second largest coral reef in the world (after the nearby Great Barrier Reef of Australia). The reef can be as close as a few kilometers from the coast in some places and as far as 65 km in others. With an average depth of 40 m. New Caledonia's reef system contains varied fauna composed of multicoloured fish and corals of incredible shapes.

From the Isle of Pines, the Loyalty Islands, and the main island Grande Terre, there are plenty of white sandy beaches, turquoise warm waters with a backdrop of unique flora to explore.

Beaches of Barbados

2009-12-06T04:11:00.009+08:00

Barbados Beaches
Accra / Rockley BeachOne of the longest and widest stretches of beach on the south coast, this is also one of the island's most popular among locals and visitors. Several vendors ply their wares here and the beach has public changing facilities. Waves are moderate, not too much undertow, and it is always a busy, active beach.
BathOne of the few truly 'safe' swimming beaches along the entire Atlantic side. There is usually a lifeguard and there are parking, changing, picnic and eating facilities. Medium to small waves and slight undertow close to shore. Best swimming is off to the left of the beach bar Bathsheba has been a popular beach for years with both Bajan and vacationing surfers alike, riding the waves at a spot known as "Soup Bowl" in Bathsheba. This picturesque little fishing village becomes a hive of activity several times a year when the surf contests come to town. Known for its big and powerful waves blown in by our ever-present trade winds, Bathsheba offers something to everyone, even if you don't surf, as there are pools in the reefs which make for enjoyable investigating. There are several restaurants and hotels are in the area, and Smokey's shop will serve you an ice cold Banks when you get thirsty.
Bottom BayLocated just north of the famed Sam Lord's Castle, this is a bay protected by jagged cliffs. An isolated, wide sandy beach lined with coconut palms, bottom Bay has a true Robinson Crusoe kind of feel to it. Crystalline waters, medium waves, slight undertow, and a good picnicking spot.
Brighton Beach An ever-popular local beach, Brighton is an amazingly long stretch of beach with only minor breaks of rock or reef. Fairly calm most of the year, very little undertow, but watch out for sea urchins in some areas near the reefs.
Cattlewash is by far the longest beach on the island and, due to its rough and rugged splendour, a popular sightseeing and relaxing spot. The beach is several miles long, and very often deserted, so take care when swimming, as the waves and undertow currents are very strong. There is a lifeguard station on the beach, so ask advice. A perfect location for nature lovers. Pack up your cooler and head for Cattlewash. Interestingly so, this beach was christened "Cattlewash" as it was the bathing spot in the olden days for herds of cattle which were shepherded down the hills from neighbouring villages. Cattle are still seen in the hilly area.
Crane Beach originally a harbour, is considered by many to be one of the island's most beautiful beaches, in fact, Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous rated it as "one of the ten best beaches in the world"! The name "Crane" was derived from the large crane situated at the top of the cliff which was used for loading and unloading ships. If nothing else, this is a gorgeous beach fronting one of the prettiest and oldest hotels on the island, The Crane Beach Hotel, standing on the cliff above the beach, which has been a favourite with honeymooners since it opened in 1867. Bigger waves make it good for body surfing, but in the cove on the left there is safe swimming close to shore.
Church Point / Colony Club Public AccessA very special beach. Clean, not terribly wide and somewhat sheltered, the waters are almost always placid with no undertow and good snorkelling. This beach fronts the magnificent Heron Bay House, which is almost as beautiful to view as the pristine beach it looks upon. Chandeliers in the trees and a looming coral stone house make this 14 acres of sheer opulence.Long Beach is last in the island loop, and stretches for more than a mile, a great find since it is little visited. The nearby long Beach Club has some facilities, otherwise, this is a fairly private setting.
Dover Beach lies at the southern end of the St. Lawrence Gap 'strip'. A popular beach among south coast visitors. Medium waves and a number of facilities right close by add to its appeal. One of my personal favourites as while walking from the Bougainvillea to the Gap I found a Ramier pigeon nesting in a small bush by the shore.
Enterprise/Miami is another fine stretch of beach, very popular among locals. Somewhat sheltered, the waters are crystal clear with medium to small waves most of the year.
Folkstone beach, St. James Parish, lies one mile north of Holetown, and is the home of the government-run Folkestone Marine Park. Folkestone has a good beach, many water-related activities, along with fresh water showers and shops. There is an interpretive centre and museum with marine and coastal environment displays, exhibits of the island’s fishing industry and a salt water aquarium. The underwater park zone extends from Sandy Lane to Colony Club and you can rent gear for snorkelling around the fringe reef, or hire a boat for diving. A glass bottom boat also plies the area.
Mullins Bay is another popular hang out, a picturesque bay with a nice, placid beach almost all year round. Plenty of facilities, from parking and eating, Mullins is also a very good snorkelling area.
North Point Cove is a magnificently beautiful bay that is not well-suited for swimming. Rough seas, serious undertow and large waves dominate this beach most of the year, and make it unsuitable for all but the very strong swimmers.
Paradise BeachParadise and Brighton beach are separated by a small stand of woods. This is another lovely, placid beach with virtually no undertow and calm waters most of the year. It was the beachfront to the old Paradise Hotel, which has been closed for several years. There are public access entries to this beach.

Paynes BayThis busy little beach has water sports, eating and parking facilities. Set in a small bay, this beach is always calm, with no undertow, and is quite popular with the west coast crowd.
Sandy Lane BayThere is a public access to this beach at the south end of the hotel.Since it sits in something of a bay, the beach is nicely sheltered with little wave movement most of the year and no undertow.
Silver Rock / Round RockThe island’s top windsurfing spot, this long, luxuriously wide stretch of beach has medium waves, a lot of undertow and good ambience.A windsurfing equipment shop sits at the apex of Silver Rock and the reef a little ways out provides a nice break for good windsurfing during the season.
Privacy: All beaches in Barbados are open to the public. Properties which front onto a beach may own the land to the high-water mark only. Access to the beach is a right for every Barbadian and many of the sea front properties must provide a public right of way across their land to the ocean.
Nude Bathing: There are no nude beaches and all beaches are open to the public. Nudism is actually illegal. Barbados has a history of conservative British tradition and Barbadians are not comfortable undressing or seeing other undress on public beaches.
Beach Vendors and Security: Selling goods to tourists on the beach is a regulated practice in Barbados. Vendors are not permitted to roam the beach and set up shop out of a carrying case. If you are bothered by a vendor, report it to the police. Most of Barbados' favourite beaches are patrolled by police, but they cannot be everywhere and it is prudent not to leave valuables unattended.
West Coast: Generally the seas on the West coast are the calmest, but good, safe, quiet swimming is available in the many tranquil bays along the South West and the South that touch the Caribbean Sea. If you like calm waters with a soft sandy bottom, then the West Coast is probably the best of these conditions, but seasonal variations can cause things to change.
South Coast: Here you will find seas of gentle waves for body surfing and tumbling in the water. There are rollers for surfing with buggy boards and surfboards and some of the best windsurfing in the world. Annual surfing competitions and international surfing meets are held on both the South and East Coasts. East and North Coasts: The East and North coasts of Barbados meet the Atlantic Ocean where huge waves crash along the shore and coral reefs. This coast is not recommended for swimming except for a few of the very protected bays. There are strong currents and fierce waves beating on the rugged coral to create a spectacle of power of a wild and rugged sea.
Barbados Beaches

Acapulco, Mexico

2009-05-03T17:35:00.003+08:00

One of the most exciting cities in the world, Acapulco is famous for its explosive nightlife, postcard beaches, unlimited watersports, first-class hotels, gourmet restaurants and the breath-taking physical beauty of Acapulco Bay!

Here you will find massive nightclubs that are state-of-the-art temples of sensuality packed wall-to-wall with beautiful people partying until sunrise. Acapulco's warm water bay and pristine beaches have been irresistible to humans since the days of the Aztec Empire. The Spanish immediately recognized the strategic advantages of the perfectly formed bay and used it as their base to explore across the Pacific. In fact, Acapulco was the only port in the New World authorized to receive Spanish galleons from the Philippines and China.

The fishing in Acapulco, particulary sailfish, is legendary, in fact, it's news when someone doesn't catch a fish. The snorkeling and Scuba diving here are first rate and there is nothing as exciting as jumping on a jet-ski and riding at full throttle across Acapulco Bay!

Hotels and Resorts

From the luxurious Las Brisas and the elegance of the Camino Real to the contemporary luxury of the Emporio or the stylish Fiesta Americana, Acapulco's hotel scene is all about fun and relaxation. Acapulco.com provides secure online booking to boutique, luxury and budget hotels throughout the bay.

Vacation Rentals

If you're searching for a vacation spot that virtually guarantees flawless weather; If you're searching for a place with incredible views, margarita sunsets and romantic breezes; If you're searching for total privacy and fully staffed accommodations; SEARCH NO MORE, YOU'VE COME TO THE RIGHT PLACE!

Restaurants

Acapulco is truly a food lover's town. Innovative restaurants and talented chefs mining the flavors of American, Italian, Asian and Mexican cuisine have put Acapulco on the culinary map.

Attractions

Acapulco has attractions that provide plenty of things to do and see. A stroll through the city to the impressive San Diego Fort or an afternoon at the Botanical Garden will satisfy all ages. For some excitement you can scuba dive or go deep sea fishing with Fish-R-Us.

Nightlife

Various bars and nightclubs come alive when the sun sets. Lasting into the wee hours of the morning, Acapulco's nightlife encompasses everything from upscale clubs to off-the-wall karaoke bars. Acapulco never sleeps, there's always something going on for the night owls.

Real Estate

A very good option is to buy your own place. Acapulco's professional and knowledgeable real estate agents will go out of their way to find you the best location, price, amenities and any other preference or requirement you may have. "Tell us what type of Real Estate you want - And We'll Find It For You!"

Daytona Beach, Florida

2009-05-03T17:25:00.003+08:00

Daytona Beach is a city in Volusia County, Florida, USA. According to 2006 U.S. Census Bureau estimates, the city has a population of 64,421.[3] Daytona Beach is a principal city of the Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area, which the census bureau estimated had a 2006 population of 496,575. Daytona Beach is a prinicipal city in the Fun Coast region of the state of Florida.

The city is historically known as having one of the few beaches in the world where the hard packed sand allows motorized vehicles to drive on the beach in restricted areas. This hard packed sand made Daytona Beach a mecca for motorsports, with the old Daytona Beach Road Course having hosted races for over 50 years. This course was replaced in 1959 by the Daytona International Speedway. The city is also the headquarters for NASCAR and the Grand American Road Racing Association.

Daytona Beach is a year-round family-friendly resort area, but could also accurately be called a seasonal town, with large groups of out-of-towners descending upon the city for various events, most notably Speedweeks in early February when over 200,000 NASCAR fans come to attend the season-opening Daytona 500. Other events include the NASCAR Coke Zero 400 race in July, Bike Week in early March, Biketoberfest in mid October. In the past Daytona Beach catered to spring breakers, but in recent years most of the vacationers have migrated to other sites, like Panama City Beach.

What to see and do

The Daytona Beach area has a wide variety of activities and entertainment for folks of all ages. Daytona Beach is famous for its beaches and motorsports, but the area also offers an abundance of shopping, nightlife, cultural events, and sporting activities, making it the perfect family vacation spot.

The beaches in the Daytona Beach area are always open and free to pedestrians! Cars are allowed on the beach in designated areas from sunrise to sunset depending on tidal conditions.

Daytona Beach offers a wide range of shopping, dining & nightlife activities. From quaint antique stores and downtown collections to major shopping centers, weve got all your shopping needs covered.

From Daytona International Speedway to the Ponce de Leon Lighthouse, there's plenty of things to do and places to see in the Daytona Beach area. Be sure to bring your camera!

Daytona Beach has a surprisingly diverse cultural side. There's almost always some kind of performance or exhibit going on! Click here and see what catches your eye.

Our expansive beaches make it possible to enjoy swimming and scuba diving, but that's not all you can do. Come enjoy our expansive golf courses or cheer for the home team at the baseball stadium.

The Daytona Beach area is a perfect destination for a wedding. Couples who want a getaway filled with sun, surf, and romance can choose from many unique venues and services available to help plan that special day.

Rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit and treat yourself to a day of pampering at one of the area's spas.

Beaches of the Dominican Republic

2009-01-09T10:50:00.005+08:00

No way would we have thought of quick divorce and Dominican Republic synonymous. If there were one place in the Caribbean we could point you to for inexpensive resorts and sugar-white beaches, the Dominican Republic would be our destination of choice. It's romantic! And, it's the fastest-growing destination in the Caribbean because of the low prices and beautiful terrain. Especially, the Punta Cana area - what a boom!

Columbus found the Dominican Republic on his very first voyage to the New World. He said it was, "the most beautiful island in the world". A settlement was founded in 1493 and ruins still remain near Montecristi.

The Dominican Republic is located amongst the islands of Cuba, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico. It is on the isle of Hispaniola (meaning Little Spain), and is divided between Haiti on the west and Dominican Republic on the east - about the size of the state of Vermont and New Hampshire combined. Most of the island interior is sugar cane plantations.

The cool thing is that much of what Columbus saw still remains - a natural, virgin landscape - still unspoiled. And, one-third of the island's coastline is the awesome beaches, which we'll review next!

Dominican Republic - BEACH INDEX:

Sand - Most beaches are brilliant white, due to the high content of coral/shell.
Facilities - DR beaches have full facilities near the tourist centers.
Shade - Expect tall coconut palms. Tourist beaches offer umbrellas/shades.
Sports - Full service at tourist centers. Sports fishing great in most areas.
Notes - best time to visit - late November to April, as humidity is lower, temperature cooler. However, resorts are reporting high volume throughout the year due to the great bargains currently found.

The beaches in the Dominican Republic are unspoiled Caribbean jewels that sparkle in the island sun. The country boasts almost 800 miles of coastline, featuring some of the most stunning sands in the Caribbean. With so many beaches on one island, vacationers will never have to search for great surf and sand.

Sugary white sands and crystalline blue waters are just a few reasons to visit any of the Dominican Republic's pristine beaches. In addition to the ample sunshine and powdery sands, an assortment of watersports are available at many of the island's beaches. Also, because the Caribbean's tourism industry is mainly focused on other islands in the region, vacationers won't have to deal with heavy crowds, which gives beachgoers a truly relaxing time on the island's seashores.

The beaches of the Dominican Republic vary greatly in their individual characteristics and overall appeal. You can find beaches all along the island, but here are some of the more popular areas:

The small colonial town of Puerto Plata is one of the island's top beach destinations. Visitors come to this area mainly for the brilliant beaches, which consist of soft white sands and aquamarine waters. These clear blue waters are home to an offshore coral reef formation that is an excellent place for snorkeling. The coastal area in Puerto Plata also has a good selection of beachfront accommodations. If you want to visit more secluded sands in this area, head over to Guarapito, which provides a wonderfully relaxing beach experience, complete with sunshine, peace, and quiet.

Heading east from Puerto Plata, you'll find Sosúa, one of the island's small fishing villages. Though the town doesn't have a lot to offer, the beaches here are truly amazing. The locals say that the beaches at Sosúa are some of the most beautiful in the Dominican Republic.

The northern shores of the Dominican Republic are famous for windsurfing, especially in Cabarete. These northern beaches feature steady winds, making them ideal for this sport. Located about 25 minutes from Puerto Plata, Cabarete is easy to reach, so vacationers should have no problems getting to these shores. An annual windsurfing competition is held in Cabarete every June, so you can enjoy a little competition while catching some amazing winds and waves.

Samaná is another popular beach area on the island. Located on the Samaná Peninsula, the weather here is exceptionally good, the sands are snowy white, and the waters are crystal clear. A few small villages are situated along these shores, and this area only about an hour from Puerto Plata. From December to March, boats will take vacationers on whale watching excursions, where whales can be spotted mating and calving. Yachts from all over the world visit this harbor during the winter months, creating a colorful display against the blue Caribbean waters. While visiting the beaches at Samaná, keep in mind that there may not be a life guard on duty and the undertows here can be extremely dangerous.

Probably the most popular beach destinations for tourists is Punta Cana, where many of the island's top beachfront resorts are located. Along with amazing oceanfront scenery, there are plenty of places for entertainment and activities along these beaches. Numerous bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and shops edge the sands here, so you can find plenty to do after spending the afternoon on the gorgeous beaches.

The undeveloped region of Barahona, also known as the"Pearl of the South," is unique. Unlike much of the island's other coastal property, the development of beach resorts has not spoiled its beautiful beaches. In Barahona, the beaches are amazing and the waters are superb, creating the perfect beach experience without the hustle and bustle of more crowded shores.

Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic's capital city, is also home to several popular beaches. A few of Santo Domingo's beaches feature perfectly calm shallow waters, such as at Boca Chilca, and are very popular with families. Other beaches are frequented by vacationers who enjoy bathing in the sultry island sun. Still others boast plenty of activities such as sailing, diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, and much more.

Other lovely beaches are located throughout the Dominican Republic in places such as Azua, Baní, La Altagracia, Miches, Montecrist, Pedernales, Río San Juan, San Cristóbal, and San Pedro de Macorís. All of these areas have different styles of beaches, but all have one thing in common: their breathtaking natural beauty has remained relatively unspoiled.

Whether you're looking to stay near a beach, or looking to find a beach near where you're staying, you'll have plenty of options in the Dominican Republic. To learn more about individual beaches, click on the links below.

Beaches of Panama

2009-01-09T10:47:00.003+08:00

Panama Beaches

The favorite pastime of Panamanians and visitors is enjoying the Caribbean and Pacific Beaches. Both coasts have beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters, white sand, coral reefs and coconut palm trees. These qualities make places such as Bocas del Toro, Portobelo and the San Blas islands in the Caribbean ideal vacation spots for sun-seekers and scuba divers.

On the other side and only few minutes drive from Panama City, you can find 80 kilometers (50 mi) of Pacific Beaches stretching from Punta Chame to Farallon offering resort hotels, sport facilities, and restaurants for your enjoyment. Sailing enthusiasts can have their fun too in these quiet waters and visit the flower-island of Taboga or the enchanting Pearl Archipelago.
Caribbean Beaches

Pacific Coast Beaches Near Panama City

It is hard to think of any metropolitan city anywhere with so many fine beaches nearby. Along the Pacific Coast just outside Panama City, begin a string of pretty beaches of white sand and sapphire blue waters. This lovely coastal area of Panama is home to two full service resorts, Central America's only beach front golf course, as well as simple beach front cabins, villas and an RV park. Gorgeous million dollar homes dot the coastline- this is preferred location for the vacation homes of Panama's wealthiest families. Getting there is easy- just an hour from Panama City on a modern four lane highway.

The names of the more well known beaches and beach communities are Punta Chame, Gorgona, Coronado, Rio Mar, Santa Clara and Playa Blanca.

The two resorts are the Royal Decameron at Playa Blanca, beautiful all-inclusive resort with 600 rooms, six restaurants and a full gamut of activities and facilities. The Coronado Hotel and Resort is another beautiful five star hotel with an 18 hole seaside golf course designed by Tom Fazio, the only one of its kind in Central America.

Rio Mar is a popular surfing beach year-round. Punta Chame is great for windsurfing certain months of the year.

Miles of lovely, uncrowded beaches, major beach resorts, retirement and vacation communities, golfing, surfing and wind surfing, ocean and river kayaking, RV park, jet skis, and side trips to the ancient volcano crater town El Valle de Anton.

Punta Chames-Farallon

Where is Punta Chame - Farallon Located?
The 80 kilometers. of coast on the Pacific that goes from Punta Chame to Farallon is located between Km 78 and 120 (milestones 48 and 75) on the Pan-American Highway from Panama City.

How to get there
The access to any point on the coast is by road. After about 45 minutes from Panama City, you can start to enjoy of the fresh coastal air of this area.

Services
From first Class Hotels with swimming pools, golf courses, tennis courts, spa, casinos, to beach cottages, restaurants, recreation centers and handicraft shops.

What to do and where to go
You can find a variety of beaches within easy access from the Pan-American Highway, where you can sail, surf or simply swim. The Beaches of Gorgona, Coronado, San Carlos, El Palmar, Rio Mar, Corona, Sea Cliff, Santa Clara, Playa Blanca, Farallon and Juan Hombron are all very popular year round.

Beaches of Costa Rica

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When someone says, "Costa Rica," you probably think, "fantastic beaches!"

Warm waters year-round, an unparalleled tourism infrastructure, and limitless attractions spanning two coasts are the reasons Costa Rica's beaches rank among the best in the world. And since nearly two thirds of Costa Rica's borders are coastline, there are a whole lot of beaches to explore. Let's get started!

Nicoya Peninsula
Okay, obviously the Nicoya Peninsula isn't a single beach. But Costa Rica's largest peninsula is ringed by so many blissful strips of sand, it deserves a top ten list of its own. Besides livelier beach cities like Montezuma, Tamarindo, and Mal Pais, Nicoya boasts many Pacific beaches that are far more remote and relaxing: Playas Hermosa, Samara, Flamingo, Conchal (pictured at right), and Playa Grande.

Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio is not only one of Costa Rica's most beautiful beaches, but one of the most beautiful in the entire world. Imagine: perfect horseshoe bays bordered by soft white sands, dazzling blue-green waters, and hilltops piled with jungle and streaming waterfalls. Dive, snorkel, surf, kayak, hike, or zipline -- but don't forget to relax and enjoy the unforgettable views.

Manuel Antonio National Park
Playa Dominical, about 30 miles south of Manuel Antonio National Park, is widely recognized as one of the best Costa Rica surfing beaches. A number of surf camps and surf shops have sprung up to take advantage of the lively lefts and rights. But even if you don't surf, you'll adore Playa Dominical's lush green landscape, nightlife and relatively uncrowded sands.

Montezuma
Located on the inner base of the Nicoya peninsula, Montezuma is a gathering place for Costa Rica's most idiosyncratic locals and travelers. Dreadlocked Rastafarians, tattooed bohemians, sun-kissed surfers, and other examples of exceptional beauty are the norm at this picturesque little beach, which also boasts tide pools, forested waterfalls, and wildlife (Capuchin monkeys! Crocodiles!) viewing.

Tortuguero
At the helm of Costa Rica's Caribbean side, Tortuguero is a eco-tourist's fantasy. Travelers can experience any number of exotic attractions: tours down jungle canals in dugout canoes, scenic hiking trails, guided safaris. Sixteen of Costa Rica's endangered animal species live in the Tortuguero National Park, like tapirs, ocelots, manatees, and green sea turtles, after which the region is named. To top it all off, Tortugero's beaches are perfect for sunbathing.

Playa Tamarindo
While Playa Tamarindo offers world-class shopping, dining, and coastal amusements, budget travelers might find themselves priced out (when I traveled there in college, I grocery shopped and cooked in a communal kitchen). But Tamarindo's natural perks make the splurge worth it -- on the beautiful beaches adjacent to Tamarindo, giant leatherback turtles (and other types) annually clamber ashore to lay their eggs.

Corcovado
Corcovado is the jewel of Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula. Its beaches are windswept beauties, with dark sands shaded by towering palms, while the mountainous inland jungles of Corcovado National Park are home to some of the country's most distinctive wildlife. No trip to Corcovado is complete without a boat excursion to the nearby Isla del Caño, which offers fantastic diving as well as the opportunity to examine the island's ancient stone spheres -- spooky!

Mal Pais
Surf culture is the principle philosophy in Mal Pais and its coastal neighbor, Santa Teresa. If you're not a wave-worshiper, book a boat tour and watch dolphins, manta rays, and other creatures thriving in the area's protected waters. Travelers can also hike to the Montezuma waterfalls and take a flying leap, or conquer the 4-hour trek through the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve to its pristine, white sand beach. However, Mal Pais's own beaches are even better for stringing up a hammock and swaying in the sun.

South of Limon
South of the port city of Limon (towards the Panama border), a number of stunning beaches are the personification of the low-key Caribbean lifestyle. The Cahuita National Park is an excellent place to camp -- if you don't mind waking to the sound of monkey chatter! Travel farther down the coast and enjoy dramatic sunrises at Puerto Viejo. Or head straight to Manzanillo, a protected area with tropical rainforest, palm swamps, coral reefs, and of course, idyllic Caribbean beaches.

Jaco Beach
Right in the center of Costa Rica's Pacific coasts lies Jaco Beach, a surfer's mecca with no shortage of attractions for travelers. Jaco is in such close proximity to San Jose (2 hours by car), it flourishes with nightlife, international dining options, and even casinos. But because of the budget surf crowd, accommodations and amenities span the entire price spectrum -- at Jaco, no one is left out.

Tambor
Northeast of Montezuma, Tambor's crescent-shaped bay (called Bahia Ballena) was once frequented by whales. Now, it's frequented by travelers -- enough to keep the gentle giants out at sea, but not enough to drive them away completely. The bay's mild waters make it one of Costa Rica's best beaches for swimming and snorkeling. Tambor's inland areas are fun to explore on horseback, while its pinkish-gray beaches are perfect for a barefoot stroll. Boats also launch from Tambor to the Tortuga Island, home to immaculate beaches and unparalleled Scuba diving.

Beaches of Mexico

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The best months to go to Mexico beaches are November - May.

July-August, Christmas, and Easter attract huge numbers of holidaymakers from both inside and outside the country, especially at beach resorts. The worst are the hottest and most humid months, June - September, with an insect problem too.
Aug-Nov has the possibility of rough seas on the Pacific coast due to storms.
For diving off Baja California August - November is best, with warm, clear water.

Plus: great varied food and drink are generally available, lively evenings with music and dance are common, coral is superb in some places, some nearby ancient sites are AMAZING [Chichen Itza, Tulum], Spanish is an easy language.
Minus: it's very package touristy in many places, souvenirs are poor, petty theft happens.

Tulum, on the Caribbean coast [picture top left; stormy season just finished so seaweed around!]
One of the prettiest beaches in the world, with picturesque Mayan ruins overlooking the beach.
130 km south of a massive resort of Cancún, it is a tiny but perfectly-formed white sandy cove, with a few palm shade and the azure Caribbean sea to swim in.
The entrance to Tulum is totally touristy, with a huge car park, souvenir shops, café and restaurants. There is no place to stay on the spot, but there are a few hotels and restaurants in Tulum village and also [far better option] plenty of resort type places, cabañas [beach huts] and campsites along the coast road south to Punta Allen.

Playa del Carmen, on the Caribbean coast [not too far from Cancún] [picture top right]
A cool, casual beach scene with plenty of accommodation [though an imbalance towards monster hotels these days], excellent bars, restaurants and shops. Although it is very popular and attracts crowds from all over the world, the place is reasonably low-key, friendly and relaxing.
It is the best place in Mexico to buy high quality crafts, especially jewellery.
It has also boats to Cozumel - for world class diving and a park for swimming with dolphins [at considerable expense!].

Puerto Escondido, on the Pacific coast
Puerto Escondido has several stretches of magnificent sandy beach, with a laid-back ambience and plenty of inexpensive accommodation. Beaches are varied from a 2 km long Zicatela, the surfing mecca [nicknamed the Mexican Pipeline] to the east of the town, to the calmer three coves including Playa Puerto Angelito on the west.
August - November surf reaches 7-8 metre due to south Pacific storms.

Puerto Angel, on the Pacific coast
For even more tranquility go to the Puerto Angel area, including the backpacker's favourite, Zipolite Beach. About 60 km east of Puerto Escondido, there you can find the most simplicity and relaxation [except for the overdeveloped west end] in Mexico.
Recently there has been an increasing security problem. Beware of high surf [particularly August -November] and strong currents in deep water.

Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, Baja California [peninsula]
Offering miles of marvellous beaches this is a major American tourist destinations for fishing, golfing or young party animals.
Best beaches are:

Playa Cemeterio 4 km east, Playa Santa Maria 12 km from Cabo San Lucas for swimming, with easy access.

Playa Costa Azul, Playa Canta Mar are ideal for surfing.
Playa Solmar, 1 km west of Cabo San Lucas, is for whale- watching January - April.
Scuba diving and snorkelling are OK, but the the best sites are offshore, reachable only by boat.
Infamous time-share salesmen can be annoying. Beware strong rip tides at some of the beaches.

Bahía Concepción, Baja California
The shore of Bahia Concepcion [Conception Bay], between 10 and 50 km south of Mulegé, has several scenic beaches including Playa Requesón, Playa Buenaventura, and Playa Coyote. The bay is on the coast of Sea of Cortez, which is a protected marine sanctuary. The facilities are fairly basic [some places have no fresh water], but there is wildness, natural beauty, and tranquility. Excellent for watersports and great for seafood, especialy clams. Playa Santispac has the best campsite, with a fine resaurant. If you are up to kayaking, try Playa Buenaventura.

Bahia de Matanchen, San Blas, on the Pacific coast
This small and very Mexican fishing village of San Blas has an excellent town beach, but the best in the area is just 4 km away - Bahia de Matanchen, a broad crescent bay with splendid beaches of prime soft sand and a relaxing atmosphere.
The only drawback is summertime mosquito and sandfly problems.

Between Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco on the Pacific coast
The central Pacific Coast has several hundred miles of coastline with fine sandy beaches and excellent facilities. The choices are enormous from international resorts like Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco for monster all-inclusive resorts packed densely, to smaller resorts with local colour such as: Chamela [the prettiest, 165 km south of Puerto Vallarta], Barra de Navidad and Zihuatanejo. Great activities, fantastic seafood, and lively night life.

Gold Coast, Australia

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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 oftourist attractions.

Beaches

The city consists of 57 kilometres of coastline with some of the most popular surf breaks in Australia including,South Stradbroke Island, The Spit, Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Mermaid Beach, Nobby Beach, Miami, Burleigh Beach, Burleigh Heads, Tallebudgera Beach, Palm Beach, Currumbin Beach, Tugun, Bilinga, Kirra,Coolangatta, Greenmount, Rainbow Bay, Snapper Rocks and Froggies Beach. Duranbah beach is one of the world's best known surfing beaches and is often thought of as being part of Gold Coast City, but is actually just across theNew South Wales state border in Tweed Shire.

There are also beaches along many of the Gold Coast's 860km of navigable tidal waterways. Popular inland beaches include Southport, Budds Beach, Marine Stadium, Currumbin Alley, Tallebudgera Estuary, Jacobs Well, Jabiru Island, Paradise Point, Harley Park Labrador, Santa Barbara, Boykambil and Evandale Lake.

While the beaches are beautiful and enticing, there are also inherent dangers, and the Gold Coast has Australia’s largest professional surf life saving service to protect people on the beaches and to promote surf safety throughout the community.

The Queensland Department of Primary Industries carries out the Queensland Shark Control Program (SCP) to protect swimmers from sharks. No fatal shark attacks have occurred on protected ocean beaches, tidal waterways or canals on the Gold Coast since 1958 (however two fatal attacks have been recorded in inland lake areas that are separate from the tidal waterways network since 2000). Sharks are caught by using nets and baited drumlines off the major swimming beaches. Even with the SCP, sharks do range within sight of the patrolled beaches, lifeguards will clear swimmers from the water if it is considered that there is a safety risk.

Tourism

Around 10 million tourists visit the Gold Coast every year; comprising of 849,114 international visitors, 3,468,000 domestic overnight visitors and 5,366,000 daytrip visitors.

Tourism is the region’s biggest industry, directly contributing more than $4.4 billion into the city economy every year and directly accounting for one in four jobs in the city.

There are approximately 65,000 bed spaces, 60 kilometres of beach, 600 kilometres of canal, 100,000 hectares of nature reserve, 500 restaurants, 40 golf courses and 6 major theme parks in the city.

Gold Coast Airport provides connection across Australia with airlines including Jetstar, Virgin Blue and Tiger Airways. International services from Japan, New Zealand, Malaysia and Fiji also land at Gold Coast Airport with airlines including Jetstar, Air New Zealand, Pacific Blue, Airasia X and Air Pacific.

Less than one hour from the centre of the Gold Coast is Brisbane Airport which provides wider domestic and international access to the Gold Coast.

Events

The Gold Coast Indy 300 (formerly known as Lexmark Indy 300) is a car racing event held annually, usually in October. The course ventures through the streets of Surfers Paradise and Main Beach. The Indy 300 comprises many other events such as the Indy Undie Ball and the Miss Indy Competition. The V8 Supercars event also coincides with the Indy 300, using the same track route.

The Magic Millions carnival is the brainchild of entrepreneurs Gerry Harvey (of Harvey Normans) and John Singleton. There are plans to relocate and build a state of the art new racetrack at Palm Meadows which will incoporate the Magic Million sale with facilities for up to 4000 horses.

Each June, Coolangatta hosts the Wintersun Festival, a two-week 1950s and 1960s nostalgia festival with free entertainment and attractions, includinghot rods, restored cars and revival bands playing music of the era.

Each July, more than 16,000 congregate on the Gold Coast from around the world to participate in the Gold Coast Marathon. It is also the largest annual community sporting event held on the Gold Coast.

Late November to early December sees thousands of school leavers across the country descend on the Gold Coast for Schoolies, a two week period of celebration and parties throughout Sufers Paradise, hosted by the Gold Coast City Council . The event is often criticised nationally and locally for its portrayal of drinking and acts of violence, however every effort by the Queensland Police and State Government to ensure all school leavers have a good time are put into place, including locals volunteering by walking the streets and keeping an eye out for those in need of assistance on where to go, what to do and how to have a good time.

Early each year the Gold Coast hosts one leg of the ASP World Tour of surfing, where some of the worlds best surfers compete in the Quiksilver Pro at Coolangatta.

The Gold Coast Arts Centre located in Evandale, features a fine art gallery featuring local and international works from painting to sculpture and new media. In addition, there is a theatre for live productions including musicals as well 2 arts cinemas showing foreign and independent films from Australia and abroad.

Tourism and landmarks

Tourism is Gold Coast City's main industry, generating total revenue of $2.5 billion per annum Gold Coast is the most popular Queensland tourism location with over 13,000 available guest rooms contributing over $335 million to the local economy each year. Accommodation options available range from backpacker hostels to five star resorts and hotels. The most common style of accommodation is three and four star self-contained apartments.

Major tourist attractions include internationally renowned surf beaches, and theme parks including, Dreamworld, Sea World, Wet'n'Wild Water World,Warner Bros. Movie World, WhiteWater World, Currumbin Sanctuary, Fleays Wildlife Park, Australian Outback Spectacular and Paradise Country.

Palau

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Palau offers you the world's most beautiful tropical paradise. Famous for its diving, Palau is rated as one of the world's best diving destinations by scuba aficionados. And why not...Palau has unspoiled reefs, caves, and walls with the most amazing array of marine life you can ever imagine.

Palau beckons to you with some of the world's most awesome natural wonders. Imagine the whitest beaches you will ever see, gardens of coral just beneath the clearest waters, lakes filled to the brim with "sting less" jellyfish. Forests, waterfalls and caves that have never been ravaged by man, and hundreds of islands of the purest beauty abound all along our pristine archipelago.

Location and Geographic Description
7° 30' North Latitude, 133° 30' East Longitude

Offical Languages
English and Palauan

Time Zone
When it's Noon Monday in Palau, it is:
Manila 11:00 A.M. Monday
Tokyo 12:00 P.M. Monday
Sydney 1:00 P.M. Monday
Honolulu 5:00 P.M. Sunday
Los Angeles 7:00 P.M. Sunday

Climate
Palau enjoys a pleasantly warm climate all year round with an annual mean temperature of 82° degrees F. (27° C.). Rainfall can occur throughout the year, and the annual average is 150 inches. The average relative humidity is 82%, and although rain falls more frequently between July and October, there is still much sunshine. Typhoons are rare as Palau is located outside the typhoon zone.

Currency & Credit Cards :
The official currency of the Republic is the U.S. Dollar. Visa, JCB, Master Card, and American Express cards are widely accepted at stores and visitor facilities. There are FDIC insured banks and major hotels with limited foreign currency exchange. In addition, Palau has money transfers such as Western Union or through Bank Institution.

Customs, Immigration & Health Requirements
One (1) bottle of liquor and one (1) carton of cigarettes can be brought into Palau duty-free. Importation of controlled substances and weapons is strictly prohibited. Travelers must have valid Passport. All visitors must have return travel arrangements or approval by the Chief of Immigration for an extended stay. The fee is $100.00 (U.S.). Cholera and Yellow Fever immunizations are required for those arriving from infected areas.

Getting There

Many visitors to Palau arrive on Continental Airlines by way of daily flights from Guam--gateway to Micronesian. There are daily connections to Guam from Tokyo, USA, and other metropolitan centers around the world. Continental Airlines provide daily flights from Guam to Palau and twice a week from Manila, Philippines.

In addition, there are scheduled chartered ariline services and they are Asiana Airline from Incheon, South Korea, China Airline from Taipei, Taiwan-ROC, and Japan Airlines from Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka, Japan to Palau.

From the western seaboard of the United States, you can hop to Hawaii, skip to Guam, then jump to Palau. For a scenic island route, you can do an island hop across Micronesia to Palau. Through Asia, there are twice weekly charter services between Taipei, Taiwan and Palau and additional flights are also available during peak seasons. From Europe,visitors can fly via Emerates direct to Manila, Philippines and onwards with Continental Airlines to Palau--this is possible without overnight stay in Manila.

Beaches and Diving

Palau is one of the most extraordinary diving spots on this planet. Far to the southwest of Micronesia the Republic of Belau (the traditional name) consists of an archipelago of 343 islands, spread north to south over 100 miles form the atoll of Kayangel to the island of Angaur plus five tiny islands, known as the southwest islands.

Palau's profuse, unspoiled reefs offer a wealth of marine life, coral formations and wrecks. Dives begin in knee deep water and plunge straight down to depths of 1000 feet and more.
Blue holes, huge caverns and an immense variety of rare and exotic marine species are easily accessible in clear water with visibility exceeding 200 feet. Vast numbers, not found anywhere else in the world, of large pelagic predators, sharks, turtles, dolphins and many species of migratory fish gather here at a unique crossroads of three of the world's major ocean currents. Land locked marine lakes, accessible from the sea through tunnels beneath the island's steep shorelines, are home to rare jelly fish, anemones and soft corals.

Palau's famed "Rock Islands" are a collection of rounded, foliage-covered isles which seem to float above the surface of the water. A boat trip through them will reveal a number of magnificent white sand beach hideaways perfect for a secluded picnic or adventurous overnight stay. Below the water's surface, divers and snorkelers are treated to a diverse technicolor paradise of fabulous drop-offs, blue holes , breathtaking reefs, crystal caves and World War II wrecks.

Vietnam Beaches

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Vietnamese Beaches, the best time to go there:

The country has a long coastline, varied, complex climatic zones and generally a fair amount of rain.
The best beaches are mostly in the southern half, and that's best Dec- May [dry, but hot and humid]. However, in that area it doesn't usually rain for long periods at any time, only showers, unless an infrequent typhoon hits the coast, so the beaches are basically OK all year round.
The worst season is probably July -Oct [humidity, occasional rains, typhoons, and of course July-Aug is always a busy holiday period].
Oct - Dec has the best weather over the whole country for sightseeing, with clear skies and temperatures in the mid 20Cs.
Plan ahead if you wish to travel during the Tet New Year festival [late January to early February] - it can be a problem getting accommodation and transport.

China Beach, between Da Nang and Hoi An [Central] Best May-Oct
The most unspoilt Vietnam beach is the endless white sand of China Beach, where US troops landed during the 70's unpleasantness.
The main beach is officially around the Non Nuoc Resort hotel but some locals argue that the real China Beach is at My Khe Beach about 5 km north of the hotel [both are near the tourist attraction of Marble Mountains]. Development is in on the way!

Nha Trang, Vietnam [Central] Best May-Oct
Nha Trang, 'the Vietnamese Riviera', is a delightful little town of tranquil, friendly locals. It has 6 miles of splendid white sandy beach with azure water, backed by green hills and palm trees. The town has little noise or pollution because locals prefer walking or biking to motorbiking.
You can find good Indian restaurants there and some of the best seafood restaurants in the country.
Tran Phu [public beach] is inviting but beaches north of the town and on islands in the bay are a better option. For instance, Doc Let Beach [34 km north of Nha Trang], Dai Lanh Beach [37 km north], Bai Tru Beach in Bamboo Island are worth the trip for peace and quiet.

Mui Ne Beach, Mui Ne Bay, near Phan Thiet [South] Best Dec- May
Mui Ne Bay is about 20mins [by bus] from Phan Thiet, which is 120 miles/198 km [a 3 hour drive] from Ho Chi Minh City. It has fabulous stretches of white sand, a scenic landscape and lovely locals. The climate is hot and dry almost all year, with an average temperature of about 27C.
The good bits [e.g. Rang Beach] are the outlying beaches to the north, but the best is Mui Ne Beach, an upcoming resort area known for its spectacular sand dunes. This is regarded as one of Vietnam's most beautiful beaches, but locals still needs to develop an attitude to cleanness, as rubbish piles up between resorts.
The beach is also known for world-class wind/kite surfing [good wind almost guaranteed - though the sea-breeze can be over-the-top for sun bathing sometimes. See Mui Ne Beach Pictures. No hustlers/sellers. Lots of comfortable, reasonably priced hotels are available.

Hon Chong Beach, Ha Tien [South] Best Dec- May
The coastline of Ha Tien is on the border with Cambodia [5m/9 km] and has some superb beaches, including the site of the French film L'amant [The Lover, 1995].
Hon Chong Beach is a very seductive beach with soft white sand and calm tropical water, while nearby Tien Cave has interesting rock formations. White sandy Duong Beach is also worth a try.
The Hai Tac islets accessible by boat from Ha Tien offer some great diving for scuba freaks. The biggest of these islands, Hon Doc, has also some splendid white beaches. Or try Nghe Island [1 hour one way].

Bai Tam [Long Beach], Phu Quoc Island [South] Best Dec- May
Phu Quoc Island in the Gulf of Thailand is Vietnam's largest island. Off Ha Tien, it's a hidden gem of Southeast Asia. The island has mountains, forests and superb sandy beaches perfect for nature lovers as well as sun-seekers.
Some of the beaches can only be reached by hiking sandy paths - Bai Truong [Long Beach] on the west coast is apparently the best, where you can see sunset over the water.
Bai Thom in the north and Bai Khem in the south are also popular. Major development plans are afoot.

Amazing Images of Maldives

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Photos Courtesy of:
http://www.manthiriliveaboard.com/about-maldives.html
http://ava7.com/2006/11/beautiful-nature-wallpapers-part-1.html
http://www.athousandandone.com/21/
http://www.thetravelwebsite.co.uk/maldives-c413.html
http://www.weddings-abroad.com/list.htm
http://www.greenglobetourism.com/place_details.php?state_id=36
http://www.i4ide.org/
http://islamdom.blogspot.com/2007/09/maldives-unreached-vacation.html

Madagascar

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Madagascar, larger than California and about size the size of Texas or France, is the world's fourth largest island. Isolated in the Indian Ocean off the coast of southern Africa, about 70% of the estimated 250,000 species found on the island exist nowhere else on the globe. The island is home to such evolutionary oddities as lemurs, a group of primates endemic to the island; brilliantly colored lizards including geckos and chameleons; tenrecs, spiny hedgehog-like creatures; and the fossa, a carnivorous animal that looks like a cross between a puma and a dog but is closely related to the mongoose.

Beaches and diving destinations

Nosy Be Archipelago
These tropical islands off the northwest coast have some of the region's finest beaches. Most accessible on Nosy Be is Andilana, the northernmost beach. Don't miss the day trip to beautiful, reef-ringed Nosy Tanikely, a marine reserve with a lovely, sunny beach. Nosy Komba has a good, small beach near Ampangorinana village; and quiet, unspoiled coves in the south of the island. There are real gems further afield on Nosy Iranja ("the turtles island") and in the Mitsio Isles.

Ile Sainte Marie
Along the west coast, there are a number of secluded, palm-lined coves, off which to swim and snorkel and there is a stunning beach on the offshore islet of Ile Aux Nattes. The orchids are at their peak in September and the whales' migration takes place between July and October.

Ifaty
Ifaty has a pleasant beach and easy access to the spiny desert. The beach is at its best in front of the hotels Bamboo Club and Vovo Telo. The coral reefs attract scuba divers and there is an good PADI diving centre, but the coral is in very poor condition, mostly due to the effects of El Nino.

Anakao & Nosy Ve
Anakao is a traditional Vezo fishing village on the southwest coast of Madagascar, about 35 km south of Toliara (TulÃ©ar). Its isolation has protected it from most tourism and it remains fairly unspoiled. Among Madagascar aficionados, Anakao is known for its long white beach lined with an armada of brightly painted pirogues; its turquoise lagoon, with tints of emerals; its fishing, diving and surfing ('Flamball').
Sadly, its once-superb snorkelling is a thing of the past, now that bleaching has reduced the shallow reef to a vista of dead coral. The traditional practice of hunting for sea cucumbers and octopus has caused further damage; and its growth, fuelled by demand from the Far East, is placing intolerable pressure on the marine environment. Purchasing items made by the local women provides them with an alternative source of income.
A short walk south of Anakao will lead you to some tombs, and then to a peninsula on which fragments of Aepyornis eggshells can still be found (It is illegal to take them out of Madagascar.). A visit to the weekly market is another pleasure of a stay in Anakao.
Most people enjoy being on a tiny desert island. Three km west of Anakao, the island of Nosy Ve, with its superb white beach, reefs and breeding colony of tropic-birds, makes a lovely day-trip. In addition to the Red-tailed tropic-birds, birders should encounter a variety of terns, and, with luck, Crab plovers and the White-tailed tropic-birds.

MorondavaThe Morondava seafront has a wide, white sandy beach off which it is safe to swim. It is at its best in the vicinity of Hotel Chez Maggie.

Island HoppingSail the Indian Ocean on board a luxury private yacht, mooring at inhabited and uninhabited islands in the Nosy Be Archipelago and the remote Mitsio Isles.

Italian Beaches

2008-07-09T13:51:00.004+08:00

The Mediterranean hosts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Italy's beach resorts attract more and more tourists year after year, for it is said the Italian beaches are like treasures to discover and behold. The beach resorts were home to many tourists during the summer season, today many now claim this their year round home. The wonders of sea air provide some of the healthiest fresh air, known for their regenerative properties; the sea air is a relief and a healthy escape from city life.

Italy is a peninsula extending into the central Mediterranean Sea, northeast of Tunisia. Its 7,600 km of coastline have some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, the Ligurian Sea, the Sardinian Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea, in the west the Sicilian Sea, and the Ionian Sea in the south and the Adriatic Sea in the east.

After exploring the cities, touring the lakes and walking in the mountains, the beaches are the perfect place to relax, unwind and reflect. Most of the year the beaches are sunny, and with 7,600 miles of shoreline bordering Italy and its islands, you can easily find waters where the temperatures are ideal for swimming. Miles upon miles of golden, sun drenched sand, in some places up to 1 km deep. The sea welcomes the sun seeker in comfort and style. An array of colours, which one can quickly identify by the rows of neatly laid out sun umbrellas and deck chairs, which seem to almost dot the entire seashore.

The Blue Flag

104 Italian beaches have been awarded with a Blue Flag in 2008. This award is given to the beaches that offer cleanliness and safe bathing areas. The Blue Flag is an exclusive eco-label awarded to over 2672 beaches and 640 marinas in 36 countries across Europe, South Africa, Morocco, New Zealand, Canada and the Caribbean in 2007.
The Blue Flag Campaign is owned and run by the independent non-profit organization Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). The Blue Flag works towards sustainable development at beaches and marinas through strict criteria dealing with water quality, environmental education and information, environmental management and safety and other important services. http://www.blueflag.org/

Abruzzo
Martinsicuro, Alba Adriatica, Tortoreto, Giulianova-lungomare nord e lido Zara, Roseto degli Abruzzi, Pineto-Scerne/Villa Fumosa-Villa Ardente/Torre Cerrano; Silvi arenile sud-L.mare centrale-T.re Cerrano (Teramo); Francavilla al Mare, San Vito Chietino-Calata Turchino-Molo sud; Rocca San Giovanni, Fossacesia, Vasto-Marina e Punta Penna, San Salvo-L.mare Colombo (Chieti)

Apulia
Rodi Garganico, Mattinata (Foggia); Polignano a Mare (Bari); Ostuni (Brindisi); Ginosa (Taranto)

Basilicata
Maratea (Potenza)

Calabria
Cirò Marina (Crotone); Roccella Jonica, Marina di Gioiosa Jonica (Reggio Calabria)

Campania
Massa Lubrense (Napoli); Positano, Agropoli-Trentova-San Marco, Castellabate, Montecorice/Agnone-Agnone-Capitello, Acciaroli-Pioppi di Pollica, Ascea-Marina Velia-Petroso/Scogliera, Pisciotta-La Gabella-Pietracciaio Acquabianca, Centola-Palinuro-Baia della Molpa, Vibonati-Villammare, Sapri (Salerno)

Emilia-Romagna
Comacchio (Ferrara); Lidi Ravennati, Cervia (Ravenna); Cesenatico, San Mauro Pascoli (Forlì-Cesena); Rimini, Misano Adriatico, Cattolica (Rimini)

Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Grado (Gorizia); Lignano Sabbiadoro (Udine)

Latium
Sabaudia, Sperlonga, Gaeta (Latina)

Liguria
Camporosso, Bordighera (Imperia); Finale Ligure, Noli, Spotorno, Bergeggi, Albisola Superiore, Albissola Marina, Celle Ligure, Varazze (Savona); Chiavari, Lavagna, Moneglia (Genova); Lerici (La Spezia)

Marches
Gabicce Mare, Pesaro-Lido di Ponente e di Levante, Fano nord-Sassonia/Torrette-Marotta (Pesaro-Urbino); Senigallia, Sirolo, Numana Alta e Bassa (Ancona); Porto Recanati-Scossicci, Civitanova Marche, Potenza Picena (Macerata); Porto S.Elpidio; Fermo-Lido/Casablanca-Marina Palmense, Porto San Giorgio, Grottammare-lungomare nord e sud, Cupra Marittima, San Benedetto del Tronto (Ascoli Piceno)

Molise
Termoli, Campomarino (Campobasso)

Piedmont (lakes)
Cannero Riviera (Verbania)

Sardinia
Santa Teresa di Gallura-Rena Bianca, La Maddalena-Spalmatore (Olbia-Tempio)

Sicily
Pozzallo (Ragusa); Menfi (Agrigento); Fiumefreddo di Sicilia (Catania); Marsala (Trapani)

Tuscany
Forte dei Marmi, Camaiore, Viareggio (Lucca); Pisa-Marina di Pisa-Tirrenia-Calambrone; Livorno-Antignano e Quercianella, Castiglioncello e Vada di Rosignano Marittimo, Cecina-Gorette e Marina di Cecina, Marina di Bibbona, Castagneto Carducci, San Vincenzo, Riotorto-Piombino: parco naturale della Sterpaia (Livorno); Follonica, Castiglione della Pescaia, Marina e Principina di Grosseto, Monte Argentario (Grosseto)

Veneto
Caorle, San Michele al Tagliamento-Bibione, Eraclea, Jesolo, Cavallino Treporti (Venezia)

Puerto Rico - The Best Beaches

2008-07-04T13:21:00.005+08:00

The Best Beaches
White sandy beaches put Puerto Rico and its offshore islands on tourist maps in the first place. Many other Caribbean destinations have only jagged coral outcroppings or black volcanic-sand beaches that get very hot in the noonday sun.

Best for Singles (Straight & Gay):

Sandwiched between the Condado and Isla Verde beaches along San Juan's beachfront, Ocean Park Beach attracts more adults and less of the family trade. Only Isla Verde beach to the east matches Ocean Park for its broad beach and good swimming. The people-watching here is nothing compared to the well-stuffed bikinis (both male and female) found on South Miami Beach or Rio de Janeiro. However, for the Caribbean, Ocean Park is as good as it gets. Because many gay boarding houses lie in Ocean Park, a lot of the beach here is frequented by gay young men, mainly from New York. However, straight people looking to meet someone while wearing swimwear will find plenty of lookers (and perhaps takers).

Best Beach for Families:

Winning without contest, Luquillo Beach, 30 miles (48km) east of San Juan, attracts both local families, mainly from San Juan, and visitors from Condado and Isla Verde beaches in San Juan. Beach buffs heading for Luquillo know they will get better sands and clearer waters there than in San Juan. The vast sandy beach opens onto a crescent-shaped bay edged by a coconut grove. Coral reefs protect the crystal-clear lagoon from the often rough Atlantic waters that can buffet the northern coast, making Luquillo a good place for young children to swim. Much photographed because of its white sands, Luquillo also has tent sites and other facilities, including picnic areas with changing rooms, lockers, and showers.

Best for Teenagers:

More families with teenagers check into the Hyatt Dorado Beach Resort & Country Club west of San Juan than into any other competitor in Puerto Rico, including the resorts along the San Juan beach strip. Six beaches border the Hyatt resorts, each a strip of white sand fronting the north coast. Because the Dorado features many activities for kids of all ages, its beaches over the years have become family favorites. The Hyatt beaches originally opened onto a grapefruit-and-coconut plantation, but today these 1,000 landscaped acres (400 hectares) are devoted to fun, ranging from jogging and biking trails to swimming in the longest pool on the island. Young people find it easy to meet other teenagers here, not only on the beach but while participating in the resorts' myriad of activities.

Best for Swimming:

Whereas on much of the northwest coast of Puerto Rico, rough Atlantic waters often deter bathers but attract surfers , the south coast waters are calmer. On the south coast, Playa de Ponce, outside Ponce, Puerto Rico's second-largest city, consists of a long strip of beautiful white sand that opens onto the tranquil waters of the Caribbean. Less crowded than Condado and Luquillo, Playa de Ponce is an ideal place to swim year-round in clearer, less polluted waters than those along the more heavily populated northern coastline.

Best for Scenery:

In the southwestern corner of Puerto Rico, Boquerón Beach lies in a section of the island called the Cape Cod of Puerto Rico. The beach town of Boquerón itself, filled with colorful scenery, stands at the heart of a 3-mile (5km) bay, with palm-fringed white sand curving away on both sides. In addition to this panoramic vista, you can also sample vignettes of local life. Fisherfolk, sailors, and scuba divers are also attracted to this beach, where fresh oysters are shucked on the spot, doused with Tabasco, and sold at various ramshackle shacks. You can see that there are plenty of interesting photo ops at this beach. While enjoying the scenery and the sands, you can take a break and order a regional ice cream at one of the stands. It's made with sweet corn and dusted with paprika. Sound awful? Try it: It's good.

Best for Windsurfing:

Rincón's winter surf, especially at Playa Higüero, puts Malibu to shame. Today surfers from all over the world are attracted to Rincón, which they have dubbed "Little Malibu." From Borinquén Point south to Rincón, nearly all the beaches along the western coast are ideal for surfing from November to April. As the windsurfing capital of the Caribbean, the Rincón area was put on the map when it was the site of the 1968 world surfing championships. Some of the 16-foot (4.8m) breakers here equal those on the north shore of Oahu.

Best Beaches for Being Alone:

The main island is filled with isolated sandy coves that only the locals seem to know about. The best, all guaranteed to delight the escapist in you, stretch between Cabo Rojo (the southwesterly tip of Puerto Rico) all the way east to Ponce. Beginning in the west, directly east of Cabo Rojo, you'll discover Rosado Beach, Santa Beach, Caña Gorda Beach, and Tamarindo Beach. Access to many of these is limited because of poor roads, but the effort is worth it. Be sure to bring the necessary supplies.

Best for Snorkeling:

For snorkeling, we prefer to escape from the Puerto Rican mainland altogether, heading for the isolated beaches of the offshore islands of Vieques and Culebra, part of the Spanish Virgin Islands. In Vieques alone there are some 40 beaches, most of them officially unnamed even though U.S. sailors once stationed on the island have nicknamed their favorites-everything from Green Beach to Orchid. The best beach for snorkeling on Vieques is Playa Esperanza, especially that spot in front of the Trade Winds Guesthouse. Another favorite location, which we discovered when directed there by a Navy SEAL, is across the little harbor at Cayo de Afuera. This site gives you the best preview of dramatic (and living) antler coral. Nurse sharks and the occasional manatee also hang out here.

On the neighboring island of Culebra, the beaches are less visited by snorkelers, even though they open onto coral reefs and clear waters. The snorkeling is not so hot at the island's most frequented beach, Flamenco Beach. But all you have to do is take a 15- to 20-minute hike from the parking lot at Flamenco over the hill to Playa Carlos Rosario, which offers some of the best snorkeling in Puerto Rico. A barrier reef virtually envelops the beach, and you can snorkel all day. For other great snorkeling, you can walk along the cliffs south of here for about a quarter mile (.4km) to a place called "The Wall," which has 40-foot (12m) drop-offs, rainbow-hued fish, and other delights.

The Best Hotel Beaches

Wyndham El San Juan Hotel & Casino

(San Juan; tel. 800/WYNDHAM or 787/791-1000): This posh resort occupies the choicest beachfront real estate at Isla Verde Beach, one of the finest in Puerto Rico. Ideal for swimming, the golden sands near the airport evoke South Miami Beach. Picnic tables are found here, and the beach is also good for snorkeling. But it is mostly the sands themselves that provide the attraction-that and all the many facilities of El San Juan resort itself.

Hyatt Resort at Dorado

(Hyatt Dorado Beach Resort & Country Club; tel. 800/233-1234 or 787/796-1234): Lying 18 miles (29km) west of San Juan, this posh resort was carved out of a plantation. Today it opens onto several miles of white sandy beaches at the mouth of the Río de la Plata. Since the turn of the 20th century, Dorado, which means "golden," has attracted U.S. presidents and rich folks like the Rockefellers. Today families can be seen romping along its sands.

Copamarina Beach Resort

(Caña Gorda; tel. 787/821-0505) lies west of Ponce, Puerto Rico's second-largest city. A laid-back retreat, the resort opens onto one of the best and least crowded beaches in southwestern Puerto Rico. This appealing beach is set a quarter mile (.4km) south of Guánica at the edge of a government-protected marshland known for its rich bird life. Its pale beige sand fronts a backdrop of bohios (thatched huts), where you can retreat from the noonday sun.

Beaches of Turkey

2008-07-03T17:25:00.001+08:00

Turkey Beaches are best May-Oct, though the water is still a little chilly up to June. Beware crowds July-Aug.They are often pebbly or hot sand so swimming shoes are useful.None of them are worth travelling for specifically, except the first two and last one.Turkish beaches [in fact Mediterranean beaches in general] are not truly comparable with those of the Caribbean or Pacific - the water is cooler and the sand generally coarser, or even pebbles. Pretty, shady, palm tree fringes are also rare, though hot sunshine, friendly locals and low prices are almost guarenteed.Going topless is not a problem.

Patara Beach -
Rated as the best beach in the world by The Sunday Times. With all due respect to a great newspaper, Pah! Patara may be the best in the Mediterranean but it can't compare with tropical beaches. However it is 14.2 kms/9miles long [the longest beach in the Mediterranean] of child-friendly shore - medium grain brown sand - backed only by ancient ruins and swooping dunes - with no buildings visible save a small café at one end. Loungers and umbrellas available for rent but no watersports or camping. The area is inexpensive and there's a limited selection of low-key accommodation in nearby Patara town, with beach commuter transport or a longish walk. Alternatively day trip in from Kalkan/Kas. 50 miles from Fethiye.

Olu Deniz Beach, near Fethiye -
Olu Deniz is a picturesque resort area, especially the main hillside town of Belcekiz, which has crystal clear water, and a long shingle beach curving away from the town promenade along to a calm blue lagoon. In addition to good value hotels - usually with pools - in Olu Deniz town, there are some popular resort villages nearby, such as Ovacik and Hisaronu [10 mins], which means that the beach can get overcrowded. The promenade by the town has plenty of bars, restaurants and cafés and there are loads of umbrellas and loungers for hire, and a wide range of water sports available. Paragliding and Hangliding, solo or tandem, off adjacent Babadag mountain and landing on the beach are extremely popular, as is scuba diving. Locals claim the season is all year round. Summer temperature averages 32C, winter 20C. 1hr 45 mins from Dalaman Airport.
Gemile Bay Beach, near FethiyeIf Olu Deniz is too commercial for you, try the secluded beach in Gemile Bay. Gemile Bay Beach is a unspoiled, picturesque cove with a great view of St. Nicholas island [you can swim or take a boat across to see the ruins].

Turtle [Iztuzu] Beach, Dalyan -
Reached by boat, Turtle Beach [also known as Iztuzu Beach], a sandbar of the Dalyan Delta, is a national conservation area and one of the last breeding places in Europe for the protected loggerhead 'Cretta' sea turtle. It's several kilometres long, with very scenic surroundings, hot brown sand, and shallow water. A small café, sun loungers and umbrellas available. Accessible mainly by an enjoyable 20min public boat ride from pleasant, relaxed Dalyan town. Dalyan has a gorgeous river frontage looking across to Lycian tombs carved into the rock face. Twitcher alert! Swamp bugs can be irritating to humans but delicious to avians, so lots of bird life here, especially swallows. Other excursions from Dalyan are mud bathing in the local hot mineral springs or swimming in nearby Lake Koycegiz. 30 mins from Dalaman Airport.

Çalis Beach, near Fethiye

Çalis Beach is informal, relaxing, and excellent for watersports or a family holiday. The coarse sand stretches for 2.5 miles, bordered by a pedestrianized road with fairly characterless hotels, cafes and restaurants along the water front. 4 miles from Fethiye. 1 hrs 10 mins from Dalaman Airport.

Kaputas Beach, near Kalkan & KasKaputas is a mountain gorge with a small shingle cove beach under a bridge crossing the gorge, with a steep set of steps up/down to the beach,and a steep drop off into the clear blue sea. It's a 10 minute dolmus [bus] ride from the hill village of Kalkan, a harbour town with colourful restaurants and terraced bars overlooking the not particularly attractive marina. Kalkan has it's own small shingle beach too - More sophisticated than most Turkish resorts. 2.5 hrs from Dalaman Airport.

Kas

There are no beaches in Kas, but it's a really lovely, relaxed hill/harbour town with no package tourists in evidence and easy access to little beaches a few minutes away by public bus on the gorgeous winding coast road. Plenty of little hotels and interesting Turkish restaurants. An hour from Kalkan.

Ladies Beach and Kustur Beach,

Kusadasi Kusadasi's most famous beach is Ladies Beach, just south of the town centre, backed by a promenade with plenty of eating and drinking establishments. It's a narrow, brown sand beach with loungers and umbrellas available for rent. Kustur Beach, 4 miles north of the town, is less crowded and more tranquil. 1hr 15 mins from Adnan Menderes Airport, 1.5 hrs from Izmir.

Içmeler Beach

Marmaris BayIçmeler is in the bay of Marmaris, surrounded by green hills and next to the Marmaris resort, home-away-from-home of beer belly and bad tatoo man. Içmeler is newer , smaller and marginally quieter than hideous Maramaris. Its beach is half a mile long, with a traffic free promenade stretching from Marmaris all way round the bay to Içmeler to help the beer bellies stagger home. Excellent facilities and amenities. 10 mins dolmus ride to Maramaris, 2 hrs 15 mins from Dalaman Airport. Maramaris has an award-winning PADI & BSAC dive centre.

Cleopatra's Beach,

AlanyaAlanya is one of the Turkey's largest resorts, with two good beaches, an historical site [old fortress], and great facilities. Cleopatra's Beach, on the western side of the peninsula, is one of the best known beaches. It's sandy, pleasant and more secluded than the other town beach on the eastern side. It is likely to be crowded with German and Scandinavian beer bellies in high summer. 2 hrs from Antalya Airport.

Side Beaches,

SideAnother classic Turkish seaside village/beach scenario, but popular with package holiday groups. Fine sandy beaches each side of the town and some ancient ruins. 1 hr from Antalya Airport.

Kyrenia, Northern Cyprus islandKyrenia [also known as Girne] is a harbour town, and one of the liveliest resorts of North Cyprus. It's located in a stunning coastline backed by mountains, with clear Mediterranean waters in front of it. Small villages sprawl along the coast on both sides of the town, but the coastline continues with golden sandy beaches and rocky coves, and the clean water is ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Majorca, a privileged destination in the Balearic Islands

2008-06-30T17:38:00.002+08:00

Majorca is synonymous with world-renowned beaches and coves, but is also a perfect destination to enjoy countryside, culture, water sports, entertainment... There are many reasons to visit the island, the largest of the Balearics.

Majorca is an island that measures almost 80 kilometres from one end to the other, outstanding for its diversity. It has 550 kilometres of coast, where you will find some of the Mediterranean's most beautiful coves and beaches: white sand beaches with a full range of services, as well as small coves set between cliffs and pine groves in the north of the island. Its clean, crystal clear waters are ideal for bathing and for water sports such as scuba diving, water skiing, windsurfing, fishing, sailing and surfing. These are not the only sports on offer here, however: golf is widely available. There are many well-designed courses, harmoniously set in their natural surroundings, suitable for all levels.

This Balearic Island is packed with wonderful spots. Hiring a car or going on group tours are two good ways to explore the island. Majorca has a broad range of hire cars on offer, although you can also get about using the scheduled bus services that operate between the island's main towns. There is also a train that runs between the capital, Palma de Mallorca and Sóller. This trip is well worthwhile - the train affords delightful views of the beautiful Majorca countryside. If sports are your thing, then cycle touring and hiking are the healthiest ways to get to know this Mediterranean island. Why not explore the tracks and trails that criss-cross Majorca? There are many routes, both along the coast and inland, fully signed with information panels. These itineraries are a wonderful way to get to know the rural side of this land. This is the way to discover the most authentic flavour of Majorca, savouring its unspoilt countryside... It is well worthwhile, rest assured.

Nature has an outstanding role on the island. Almost 40 percent of Majorca is protected countryside, and the landscape is marked by contrast: caverns, pine woods, green hills, abrupt mountains... Of the many nature areas, special mention should be made of the Sierra de Tramuntana Mountains in the north, with peaks reaching more than 1,400 metres above sea level. Close to these mountains you will find some of Majorca's most picturesque towns and villages, such as Deià, Pollença and Valldemossa, whose unique atmosphere has captivated artists for centuries. Another highly recommended outing is to the Cabrera National Park (Marine and Terrestrial), a group of islands and islets less than an hour by boat from Majorca.

Culture is an ever-present element in the life of the island. All year round there are festivals, concerts, literary competitions, exhibitions, recitals, theatre performances… The city of Palma de Mallorca is the cultural and artistic centre of the island, and is outstanding for the excellent conservation of its historic centre. Be sure to take a stroll around the old town and enjoy the varied, entertaining nightlife. Every year, Majorca's charm attracts famous politicians, film stars, personalities from the world of fashion... they make the island their holiday destination.

Majorca has excellent communications by air and sea. Airlines from numerous countries operate out of its Son Sant Joan international airport, eight kilometres from Palma. The island also has transport links with the rest of the archipelago and the Spanish mainland via boats and scheduled ferry services that sail from the ports of Palma and Alcúdia. These excellent communications mean that from Majorca you can make visits to other Balearic Islands, such as Ibiza and Minorca, with return day-trips possible.

Beautiful Beaches of Egypt

2008-06-26T04:16:00.002+08:00

Egypt attract lots of the tourist because of its pyramid and beaches. The beaches of Egypt are very beautiful. Egypt is one of the oldest tourist destination on world. The beach vacation of Egypt are really inexpensive in comparision to the European beaches. It is also one of the reason why tourist prefer Egypt Beaches

Egypt has been divided into seven beaches zones they are as follow

Mediterranean beaches in mainline coast from the Suez Canal over to Libya
The Mainland coast south of the Red Sea
The Sinai coast along Gulf of Suez
The southern Sinai region in the Red Sea
The Mainland coast along Gulf of Suez
The Mediterranean beaches along northern Sinai
The Sinai coast along the gulf of Aqaba

. The Beaches of Egypt are either connected with Mediterranean or with the Red Sea. Some of the beaches in Egypt attract vast number of tourist and some of the beaches you can hardly find any people. Alexandaria beaches attract very huge number of tourist in comparision with the other beaches of Egypt. The Facilities around the beach in egypt range from very rudimentary beach camps to the finest imaginable five star hotels, and include the possibility of villa rentals. In general, in the region south of Hurghada, not including Marsa Alam, beach camps and more undeveloped accommodations seem to be more Popular, but then so too are open beaches with little in the way of crowds. On the east, Aqaba part of the Sinai, while Taba and in particular Sharm el-Sheikh are built up areas with fine amenities to choose from, the area in between these two destinations tend to be more camp-like, despite the fact that there are certainly a few fine hotels here and there. These areas, south of Hurghada, tend to be very laid back areas of beach with less proper amusement facilities than the main tourist areas of El Gouna, Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh, Taba and more, Marsa Alam.

Water activity around Egypt Beaches

The main differences between the beaches around coastal regions in Red Sea and the beaches around the Gulfs and Mediterranean Zones is the availability of Scuba Diving. There is some less scuba diving facilities in just about every beach region around Egypt , Most of the Scuba Diving facilities are located from El-Gouna south along the Red Sea, and around Sharm el-Sheikh on the Sinai. In fact, perhaps as much as 80% of all Scuba Diving activities originate from the immediate region of Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh. This is not to say that activities such as snorkeling cannot be found at almost all beach areas. Furthermore, other activities such as windsurfing and skiing, while available in many different locations, seems to be very popular along the mainland Gulf of Suez Zone. At various locations on just about all of the beaches there are other water sports available, such as sail boat rentals and parasailing

Jeju (Cheju) South Korea

2008-06-22T04:52:00.003+08:00

Jeju-do (transliterated Korean for Jeju Province, short form of Jeju Special Self-Governing Province) is the only special self-governing province of South Korea, situated on and coterminous with the country's largest island. Jeju-do lies in the Korea Strait, southwest of Jeollanam-do Province, of which it was a part before it became a separate province in 1946. Its capital is the city of Jeju.

The island contains the Natural World Heritage Site entitled Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes.

Tourism commands a large fraction of Jeju's economy. Jeju's temperate climate, natural scenery, and beaches make it a popular tourist destination for both South Koreans and many visitors from Japan, China, northern and southern Asia. Especially, Cheonjeyeon and Cheonjiyeon waterfalls, Mountain Halla, Hyeobje cave, Hyeongje island are popular places for tourists. Also, tourists enjoy lots of leisure sports in Jeju island including golf, horse riding, hunting, fishing, mountain climbing, etc. Depending on seasons, tourists can enjoy many festivals: penguin swimming contest in winter, cherry blossom festival in spring, midsummer night beach festival in summer, horse festival in autumn and many more. Usually, tourists enter and exit Jeju through Jeju International Airport and rent cars in the island. Lastly, tourists can buy numerous products in the island. Tourists can buy not only Jeju's special products including tile fish and mandarin oranges, but also souvenirs or duty-free products.

Jeju Island, also known as the "Island of the Gods," is a popular vacation spot for Koreans and many Japanese. It remains one of the top honeymoon destinations for Korean newlyweds. The island's mixture of volcanic rock, frequent rains, and temperate climate, make it very similar to the Hawaiian Islands in the U.S. The island offers visitors a wide range of activities: hiking on Halla-san (South Korea's highest peak), catching sunrises and sunsets over the ocean, viewing majestic waterfalls, riding horses, or just lying around on the sandy beaches.

Although tourism is one of the main industries on the island, many of the hotels and other tourist areas are run by mainland companies, so much of the income never gets put back into the local economy. Also, since the attractions are geared towards tourists, many of the entrance fees can be hefty (although the locally owned and operated ones tend to be cheaper). Similar to Gyeongju and some other areas, local residents can enter most places for free or for a steeply discounted price.

Lodging
Jeju (Cheju) Island has 15 lodging facilities listed with Life in Korea. See the full list for this area.

Transportation
Bicycle: Given Jeju's wide expanses, bicycling here is much safer than in most of Korea. Many of the roads have sufficient room to ride along the edge, and some even have special bike lanes- not just a painted line between you and traffic, but a separate road with curbs between you and the drivers. Unfortunately, many of the local residents are convinced that the bikes lanes were actually built especially for them to dry their seeds and herbs, so in some places you may have to take short detours onto the road.
Boat: The ferry terminals in Jeju City has daily boats to Busan, Yeosu, Mokp'o, Wando, Noktong, and Incheon on the mainland, as well as several boats to Japan (see the Jeju Port section for schedules). Several other smaller ports have boats to the outlying islands of Kapa-do, Mara-do, Piyang-do, and U-do.
Bus: The bus terminal in Jeju City has buses to numerous destinations around the island. Most do circuits between here and Seogwip'o or Jungmun Resort on the south coast, stopping at various points of interest along the way. Several Jeju City buses criss-cross the city. The main bus is #100, running between the airport and the port, passing the bus terminal and most major hotels. Major hotels and tourist agencies run 1- and 2-day tours around the island.
Car: Several rental car agencies have various models for hire, starting from around W35,000 per half day.
Plane: Jeju International Airport has several flights daily via Korean Air and Asiana to Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Jinju, Kunsan, Gwangju, Mokp'o, P'ohang, Ulsan, Yecheon, and Yeosu. Domestic flights have an airport tax of W3,000. It also has international flights to Japan: Fukuoka, Nagoya, Osaka, and Tokyo. International flights have an airport tax of W9,000.

Food and Drink:
Besides tourism, Cheju's main industries are fishing and agriculture. Fresh fish, squid, octopus, sea cucumber, and various other creatures can be easily bought in markets, restaurants, and even right on the beach. Cheju's tropical weather and high preciptation are perfect for growing pineapples and tangerines. The island is also famouse for its Shitake mushrooms and cactus plants. Honey made from local flowers has a special taste.

Beaches of Greece

2008-06-07T17:30:00.003+08:00

The Greek Islands are famous throughout the world. Each one is individual in it's own right, offering it's visitors a selection of history, culture, and of course, entertainment.

With so many Greek Islands to choose from, you really will be spoilt for choice. Your Greek Holidays can easily be the most fun and relaxation you have ever had during your vacations. The images of the dazzling white houses, set against a backdrop of the blue sky and crystal waters will stay with you forever.

Greece Beaches and Islands are at their very best in September, especially the first 2 weeks, when water is warm, crowds are down and full services are still in operation. They are OK May - mid Oct, though the water is still chilly up to June. Beware crowds, excessive heat and strong winds [the Meltemi] July 20th-Aug 20th [Greek holidays].
The beaches range from pebbles to fine sand so beach shoes can be useful.
The Mediterranean is not truly comparable with the Caribbean or Pacific - the water is cooler and the sand generally coarser. Shady tree fringes are also rare, though hot sunshine, good food, clear water and friendly English-speaking locals are almost guarenteed.
Low prices, apart from ferries, are no longer with us thanks to the Euro and current sophistication of Greek society.

Greece Tours
Tour operators offering tours to Greece can be found in our listings here: Greece Tours

EU beaches that failed water quality tests in 2007: none in Greece.

Nudist beaches: Going topless is acceptable just about everywhere on Greece islands, while areas of total nudism exist discreetly on many islands. e.g. Little Banana [Skiathos], Super Paradise and Panormas [Mykonos], Plaka

Island hopping is a joy these days with fast, cheap ferries connecting all the dots, tho' the fastest ones - bumpy, noisy hydrofoils and smooth, quiet catamarans - can be cancelled due to moderate winds. Bugbog's choice of ferry line is Blue Star, running superb new, apparently safe, efficient car ferries and catamarans.
Fast hopping is easiest if you stay within an island group. e.g. Ionian islands [Corfu, Cephalonia, Zante +] The Cyclades [Santorini, Mykonos, Ios, Paros, Naxos +], The Sporades [Skiathos, Skopelos +]. Typically, Santorini to Naxos would take about an hour and cost about €10. Paros to Mykonos 45 minutes.

Sea sickness guide: the Bugcrew get sea sick easily but had no problems on 8 boat journeys in September. Short bouncy trips on hydrofoils hardly merited the acupressure wrist bands we wore. 4 hours on a Blue Star ferry in a force 6 wind with 4ft waves was amazingly stable, with no more than 2cm of visible roll.
Still, we suggest acupressure wrist bands as a starting point and some fast-acting chemical as a back-up if things go wobbly.

Two wheels good, bike guide:
Unless you really like a lot of walking or waiting for buses you'll need your own transport in Greece's islands. The roads are often picturesque, mostly in good condition and other drivers generally sensible, though we would avoid much night driving and beware occasional grit on the roads.
Cars are a little expensive to rent [€25+ pd] and can be a hassle to park. Transport of choice is the scooter [€8+ pd, , though many renters will NOT accept a European car driving licence to pilot a 50cc jobby. You MUST have a bike licence. Helmets are supposed to be worn but most riders don't.

Bugbog mission position: we are not attempting to assess every beach on every island, merely to give you an idea of what to expect in different areas. Part of the joy of Greece is the space to escape the crowds and find your own little paradise. So there are plenty of beaches left for adventurers...

The Cyclades islands [SE of Athens, easy to reach by ferry from Pireus or Rafina]

Paradise, Super Paradise and Panormas beaches, Mykonos
Mykonos is one of the most attractive islands in Greece with its dry stone walls and cute organic architecture. Gorgeous Mykonos town - the epitome of whitewashed, blue wooded, narrow street Greek towns - is the start of the action, and it doesn't have to be so expensive... Just avoid waterfront dining!
Although Mykonos is fairly hilly, it's only ten miles long by seven miles wide, so most visitors rent cars or scooters to explore.
Places such as Agios Stefanos, Platyialos, and Psarou all have well protected beaches with medium grade sand and a good selection of tavernas - though heavily umbrella infested, but the pick for under-40s visitors is either the trees, coarse sand and funky bars of Paradise beach, or the even coarser but prettier Super Paradise , where naked gays have colonised one end. Both are a little exposed so water can get choppy.
For soft sand, dunes, stunning scenery, less people, less services and mad ducks try Panormas on the other side of the island.

Red Beach, Santorini
Santorini [also known as Thira] is spectacularly situated on the edge of a dormant volcano []. Many believe that this is where the Atlantis legend began, when the volcano blew hugely in 1650BC, not only knocking off the local, highly civilised Minoans [remnants still visible at the Akrotiri site] in their 'island within an island', but also sending out a tidal wave that would have destroyed many other Minoan sites and ships and closed the book on Minoan power in the Mediterranean.
Along with Mykonos, Santorini is one of the most expensive islands in Greece, but the teetering towns of Fira and Oia are spectacularly worth it.
Due to its volcanic soil most beaches - Perissa and Karmari are the best known- have hot black sand/pebbles, though the water is clean and clear.
The best beach is narrow, characterful Red Beach , with small red grainy sand partially covered in wood shavings to keep it cool, crystal water and rocks to offer snorkellers some action.

*Milopotas and *Manganari beaches, Ios
Although reknowned as a young person party island, Ios is surprisingly tranquil during the daytime and sports two superb beaches. Excellent Milopotas is only 5 minutes by scooter from the town, a huge stretch of soft yellow sand and calm, clear water. Watersports and plenty of discreet, varied tavernas lurk adjacent.
Superb Manganari is even better but a long dirt road hike or boat ride, little accommodation and not good for nipping back to rave in the evenings.

*Psili Ammos beach, Serifos
Psili Ammos means soft fine sand, and that exactly how this superb white beach is, along with clear water and a tree-lined shore. Accommodation and excellent tavernas nearby.

*Maragas and *Plaka beaches, Naxos
Rugged and mountainous Naxos is favoured by German hikers and has a pretty little, lively main town. Don't even consider grotty Grotto, north of the town, though Agios Georges at the south end is good for a town beach - fine sand, nice views, clear water and loads of accomodation and other services nearby.
A little further away and also popular is large, coarse sanded Agios Prokopios, and small, unnattractive Agios Anna.
The pick of Naxos beaches is the long stretch of dunes running from Maragas to Plaka. Soft sand, a scattering of trees, discreet services on a dirt road, almost turquoise water and lots of space make this an excellent location for layabouts. Nudists hang out in Plaka.

Kolymbithres beach, Paros
Although this is the transport hub for the Cyclades, Paros is surprisingly pleasant. The town has the usual little, white-washed labyrinthine streets, some smart sunset bars and restaurants and a terrific church, the Ekatondapiliani - the oldest in use in Greece.
The countryside is a little on the dull side but beaches are quite acceptable. The two biggish ones sharing the town's bay, Livadia and Krios, are both calm, clear, tree lined and well-taverned.
Paros' east coast has some bigger beaches that are heavily promoted - such as Golden Beach - but Bugbog found them the be overly windy, with choppy water and hard sand.
The prettiest beach on the island is undoubtedly Kolymbithres, near the tourist town of Naoussa, with shallow aquamarine water enclosed by fine sand and strangely eroded rocks. Great for children, the only problem is size...it's very small and will get crowded easily.

Beaches of Cyprus

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Cyprus Beaches

Cyprus is renowned for its fine beaches. They are the #1 reason why tourists visit the island, and so are vital to the tourist economy of Cyprus. As of 2005, forty-eight beaches on the island fly the EU Blue Flag - a demonstration of just how special the beaches on Cyprus really are.

Paphos District
There are 11 blue flag beaches in the district of Paphos. These are Alykes, Polis Camping Site, Coral Bay, Faros, Geroskipou, Laourou, Municipal Baths, Municipal Beach, Pachyammos, Vrysoudia A and Vrysoudia B. All beaches offer clean and beautiful sands on which to play and sunbathe. Coral Bay in the Peyia municipality is a great beach for kids as the sands slope into the sea at a very shallow angle.

Limassol District
The Limassol district to the east of Paphos also has 11 blue flag beaches. These are Akti Olympion, Aoratoi, Aphrodite, Armonia, Castella, Kalymnos, Loures, Onisilos, Pissouri, Santa Barbara and Vouppa. The beaches of Santa Barbara and Loures are the most popular of the 11 beaches. Aphrodite beach is well worth a visit too, if only to view Aphrodite's Rock - a place from where legend tells that the Goddess of Love herself rose out of the sea.

Larnaca District
Larnaca district has only 4 blue flag beaches. These are Castella, McKenzie, Phinikoudes and Yanathes. Phinikoudes beach is the main beach that fronts the promenade. It is a long beach and is often quite busy being so close to the town. McKenzie beach on the outskirts of Larnaca town is a much quieter beach and can be reached by public transport or hire car.

Ayia Napa District
The district of Ayia Napa contains the remaining blue flag beaches. These are Ammos tou kampouri, Ayia Thekla, Gliki Nero, Katsarga, Kermia, Konnos Bay, Landa, Louko tou Mandi, Louma, Macronissos, Nissi, Nissi Bay, Nissia Loumbardi, Pantahou, Pernera P, Pernera A, Potami, Protaras, Vathia Gonia, Vrisi A, Vrisi B and Vrisi C. Nissi Beach and Macronissos Beach are both popular with the partying crowds of Ayia Napa. At the opposite end of the spectrum Konnos Bay offers peace and tranquillity in abundance.

Tourist Info

You can get to Cyprus by either plane or boat. There are frequent scheduled and charter flights out of England and other European countries to Cyprus. Due to the fact that the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is not recognized as a valid state, it is necessary to make a stopover in Turkey when flying to your holiday destination airport of Ercan. How to visit Cyprus is explained in more detail.

Cyprus has a typical Mediterranean climate, warm and dry with little rainfall, which makes Cyprus very popular as tourist destination.

The official languages are Greek and Turkish although English is widely spoken and understood on both sides.

There are many things to know before visiting Cyprus, such as visa requirements.

Cyprus offers a wide range of accommodation in all areas of the island. There is accommodation to suit all budgets ranging from luxury hotels to camping. There are hotels, holiday villages and villas and apartments to rent.

When visiting Cyprus car hire is recommended, especially if you want to explore a lot of Cyprus. There are many rent - a car companies. All offer a range of vehicles to rent at competitive prices.

Cyprus has lots to offer for interest tourism. There are various recreation and sports activities available such as diving, carting and golfing. There are many casinos, and for those of you who prefer the out doors there's bird watching, turtle watching and hiking.

Cyprus Visa Requirements

After political changes in Europe for the past couple of years now, and accession of the Republic of Cyprus (South Cyprus) into the European Union dating 1 May 2004, regulations for entry to the Cyprus Island are becoming less strict. However, for some countries limited options still exist. Turkey residents can visit North Cyprus, but South Cyprus is for them literally inaccessible (unless they marry a Turkish Cypriot).

Visa Requirements for North Cyprus

The citizens of European Union nations, Turkey, USA, Canada, Mexico, Japan, Switzerland, Norway, Israel, Pakistan, Azerbaijan, Australia and New Zealand do not require visa to enter the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. All other nationals should check their position with regard to passports and visa with the nearest Embassy or Representative of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus . Foreign country visitors have their passports stamped at the arrival checkpoints of Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which are only legal ports - Ercan airport (or military airports for military purposes), Famagusta and Kyrenia seaport and when entering North Cyprus via South Cyprus your passport is stamped at border checkpoints. If you travel from North Cyprus to South Cyprus , visa form needs to be completed and stamped at the border checkpoints. This paper visa form is loosely inserted into the passport and stamped either you depart or arrive in North Cyprus.

North Cyprus Residency and Work Permit

After arriving in the TRNC (the Turkish Republic of North Cyprus ) you can stay for up to 3 months which is provided by your tourist visa. If you consider prolonging your stay, you need to apply for a residency permit at local Immigration Office which allows you to reside in Northern Cyprus . Your work permit should be issued prior to arrival in North Cyprus.

For further information about North Cyprus and regarding visa requirements, please contact the nearest North Cyprus Embassy or Representative Office abroad.

Visa Requirements for South Cyprus

The legal ports of entry into the Republic of Cyprus are the airports of Larnaca and Paphos and the seaports of Larnaca, Limassol, Latsi and Paphos. If you travel to South Cyprus via North Cyprus then you have to cross the border checkpoints and have your visa paper form stamped upon departure from Northern Cyprus . Turkish mainland citizens are not allowed to enter South Cyprus . For those intending to be employed in the Republic of Cyprus the issue of an employment permit by the Migration officer and all the necessary documents are required prior to departure for South Cyprus . Visa requirements for entry to the Republic of Cyprus vary, but as of latest they remain as follows.

Sanya, China

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Called the Hawaii of Asia, Sanya is a popular tourist destination located in the southern tip of the Chinese tropical island of Hainan. Located in Sanya, the Yalong Bay and the neighbouring Sanya Bay and Da Dong Hai Resort are regarded as the best beach in China. Enjoying the same latitude and similar weather conditions as Hawaii, the Sanya Beach in recent years has been the main attraction.
The water is clear, reflecting the blue sky and white clouds in it. Playing in the water with the tropical fish swimming around, swimmers can fully relax themselves. In order to protect the marine resource and environment, commercial fishing is forbidden here. With a long coastline and a tropical temperature throughout the year, this is a perfect resort to relax - and enjoy the sun, sea, sand, coconut trees, diving etc.

Sanya City is located at the southernmost tip of Hainan Island and to the east of Vietnam. Sanya City is the second largest city on Hainan Island covering an area of 1.919 sq. m with a population of 481,200 and having 19 bays and over 40 islets lying along a 209 kilometers coast line.
Hainan is often called the “the Hawaii of the East". In the distant past, the Chinese considered Hainan to be the place where the civilized world officially ended and a place fit only for convicts. Today Hainan is visited by many foreign and Chinese tourists. It is China's idyllic island paradise!

Sanya has many airlines & Sea routes based at the Phoenix Airport and Sanya Port respectively. It is only one hour flight from Hong Kong and Guangzhou, 2.5 hours flight from Shanghai, 3.5 hours flights from Beijing and 5 hours flight from Japan and Korea. Most tourists who come to Hainan China skip the commercialized capital of Haikou and make a beeline straight for Sanya China, the seaside city where all the good things about Hainan come together. Sanya is well known for its wonderful sunshine, white sandy beaches, fresh air and clear water all year round. It is the largest diving destination in the world as well as the most important destination for golf and meetings in China.
Sanya boasts the best air quality in China and ranks second in the world, next to Hawaii. Sanya Hainan has endless summer with an average temperature of 26°C. It is considered to be the most suitable city for people to live in.
As South China Sea laps the island's sandy shores, in Sanya Hainan, travelers will find three distinct bays: Yalong Bay, Dadonghai Bay and Sanya Bay. Yalong Bay offers the world-class hotels and resorts; Dadonghai beach area is brimming with local life. Sanya Bay is a relatively undiscovered tropical destination.
Through it's enticing to spend all your Sanya time sunbathing on the beach, the vicinity offers several interesting places. Sanya is noted for its mountains and hot spring and multi-ethnic culture. Sanya has blue sky, nice beachs, azure sea, and beautiful scenery to offer in the world.
Yalong Bay Sea Shell Museum, covering an area of over 3,000 square metres,
is located at Central Square of Yalong Bay National Resort. It is the first comprehensive sea shell museum in China, merging the shellfish and shell product display into an integral whole.

Yalong Bay Central Square is located at the center of the Yalong Bay National Resort. It covers an area of 7,100 square metres. The intensively landscaped Yalong Bay Central Square is the focal point of the resort along with reception area, restaurants, shopping arcade and public beach facilities.

Butterfly Park is located behind the Longtan Lakes of Yalong Bay, covers a total area of 1.5 hectares. It is a natural garden style tourist and scenic spot merging the popular science, butterfies admiring and shopping amenities. The large-scale exhibition hall occupying a floor space of over 3000 sq.m. with more than 500 kinds of specimens of butterflies on show, displays to visitors the wonderful insect world.