Archives for Pacific Beaches category
Posted on Mar 18, 2010 under Pacific Beaches |
If San Francisco conjures up the image of a metropolis with crowded streets and dense population, you’ll be surprised to learn that just a few miles south and west you will find Half Moon Bay, a rural oasis of charm set along a scenic stretch of pristine California seashore.
It’s in this small village that you’ll find quaint shops and a little more laid-back pace than the bay cities less than a half-hour drive to the northeast. There are lighthouses and farms nearby, flower markets, spectacular tide pools, and a harbor with the freshest of crab, salmon and halibut that find their way onto tables of some excellent local restaurants.
Half Moon Bay is indeed special, and it’s probably all due to its name – how could a place named Half Moon Bay be anything but a dreamy little enclave with almost fairy-tale views of the sea?
Our most recent visit to Half Moon Bay was enhanced by our accommodations – a place called the Beach House that offers 54 colorful loft suites perched on a scenic cliff overlooking the coastline. The suites are spacious and inviting, designed as open studios to take advantage of the ocean views. Each unit includes a private patio or balcony as well as separate bedroom and living areas. All the conveniences are there: wood burning fireplaces, wet bars, microwaves, refrigerators, goose down comforters – you name it.
The Beach House has a Cape Cod look, which fits well with the nearby beach and marina. You can walk wide trails down to the marina or beach and have the sense that you truly are a long ways from the Big City.
Of course the hotel’s spa services will remind you that you’re not exactly in Kansas – there is a whole menu of spa enhancements available including the signature Parisian Lavender Wrap, Reiki Massage and Aromatherapy.
Just a five-minute drive from the hotel is the downtown shopping district of Half Moon Bay, a place to meander and explore while you look for that special something to take back to friends and family. Numerous boutiques, restaurants and cafes are along Historic Main Street, not to mention more bakeries per capita than any small city we have visited.
A restaurant called Cetrella was recommended to us and is described as a “casually elegant Mediterranean bistro” with perhaps the newest and most impressive building in the downtown shopping area. The menu was amazing in its variety, yet it still offered simple choices between seafood, beef, pork, lamb and even rabbit. Among our favorites were the mesquite grilled dry aged Creekstone Farms Black Angus ribeye and the seared Cypress Island salmon – both cooked to perfection. Vegetables, served in a dizzying array of different dishes, were the freshest we can remember – which should come as no surprise considering there are farms within walking distance of the restaurant. All and all, Cetrella was a hit with our family and apparently with everyone else in town, too – this large restaurant was nearing capacity even on a weekday night.
Another fun place to dine in Half Moon Bay is Sam’s Chowder House, our choice for lunch on the second day. This fairly new restaurant is just a short walk from the hotel and offers terrific views of the bay. Our favorite item: the clam chowder.
Once you’ve shopped and dined to your heart’s content, the next step is exploration and that starts with the beaches right in Half Moon Bay. There are some 55 miles of beaches along this part of the Coastside area – the area just on the west side of the mountains from San Francisco Bay cities — and it seemed like a good number of those were right in Half Moon Bay. We took a trail along the bluffs and then went down another trail to the beach level where on this windy day we had miles and miles of beaches to ourselves. No doubt on less windy days there are more visitors enjoying these wide, seemingly endless beaches.
Numerous state parks and coastal trails of all varieties are found in nearly all of the communities along Highway 1. McNee Ranch State Park is a 700-acre preserve near Montara Mountain that offers picture-perfect ocean and hillside views. San Pedro Valley County park is an 1,150-acre park in Pacifica that offers several short, scenic trails.
Eco-tourism is big in this area only minutes from downtown San Francisco and among the activities to put you in touch with your planet are visits to area wildlife preserves and farms. Pillar Point Harbor, near the Beach House, is a working fishing harbor where you can interact with fishermen and women and learn how they make their living from the sea. In fact you can go fishing yourself on one of the local charter boats, or take a boat out to watch the whales that travel the Pacific Coast, December through April.
And how’s this for an interesting option: Spend part of your visit staying on a local family-owned farm where you’ll get an up-close view of how farmers make their living from the soil or from animal products. You can also tour a farm if you don’t have time to stay. Phipp’s Ranch in Pescadero features over 100 varieties of organic veggies, plants and herbs, while Harley Farms Goat Dairy features an edible flower garden and tours of their cheese-making room.
In addition to the seashore activities such as beachcombing and tide pooling, there are a couple of bird refuges in the area. The Pescadero Marsh is where about 200 species of birds rest and feed each year and the trail that leads along an old marshlands dike offers some great views. At Pillar Point, bird-watchers have sighted about 20 percent of all North American bird species including herons, snowy egrets, loons and grebes.
Finally, be sure to visit the two historical lighthouses located in along this coast. The Point Montara Lighthouse is in Montara and just off Highway 1 – although keep a watchful eye or you’ll miss the turn-off. It was built for mariners approaching the sometimes fog-shrouded San Francisco Coast and dates back as far as 1875. The current 30-foot tower and lens have been in operation since 1928. The grounds are currently leased to American Youth Hostel, Inc. and are open from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. and 5 to 9:30 p.m.
The Pigeon Point Lighthouse State Historic Park is located south of Pescadero on the way to Santa Cruz. The lighthouse lens was lit for the first time in 1872 and this particular lighthouse is one of the two tallest on the West Coast. The grounds are open daily from dawn to dusk with guided tours and docents available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends. There is a hostel at this lighthouse as well.
AT A GLANCE
WHERE: Half Moon Bay is about 25 miles from San Francisco and accessible using the two-lane coast road from Pacifica or by driving Interstate 280 south from San Francisco and then motoring the last few miles west on Highway 92, a two-lane road. Half Moon Bay feels quite rural, probably because it has some coastal mountains separating it from San Francisco.
WHAT: Half Moon Bay is an ideal choice for a short getaway that offers a variety of accommodations, good local restaurants, quaint shops, beaches and plenty of seaside activities such as tide pooling and sea kayaking.
WHEN: Any time of year. Bundle up for those winter walks, and sometimes even summer months are quite cool down on the beach.
WHY: Lots of natural beauty that can be combined with visits to the city.
HOW: For more information on the Beach House, phone 800-315-9366 or visit www.beach-house.com. For more information on Half Moon Bay and area eco-tours, visit www.visithalfmoonbay.org or phone 866-558-6823.
Cary Ordway
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/charming-half-moon-bay-half-hour-from-san-francisco-720811.html
Posted on Mar 15, 2010 under Pacific Beaches |
Offering sandy beaches, entertaining amusements, and a relaxing atmosphere that is in sharp contrast to nearby San Diego, Oceanside is the perfect vacation destination for anyone who wants it all away from the hustle and bustle of the city. While still close enough to enjoy everything that San Diego has to offer, this quaint California community is brimming with activities to keep you coming back year after year.
Oceanside, as it name suggests, is a waterfront haven where you can enjoy recreational activities beyond belief along three-and-a-half miles of white sandy beaches. Swimming, surfing, body boarding, sunbathing, sand volleyball, and rollerblading are just a few of the outdoor pursuits waiting for you along this clean, soft stretch of sand. With so much to see and do, the most difficult part of your day may be deciding on which of its lovely beaches you should lay down your towel.
The largest of Oceanside’s Pacific wonders, Harbor Beach is the perfect starting point for any inshore or offshore adventure. Beach bums will appreciate all of the space at their disposal, while those who want to explore outwards can head over to the nearby Oceanside Harbor and book a whale watching or deep-sea fishing excursion. For those who are relaxing near the Oceanside Pier, Pier View North offers a quiet and calm beach atmosphere compared to Pier View South, which is the most popular beach in Oceanside with its surfing, body surfing, and body boarding contests and proximity to the events of the Oceanside Pier Amphitheater.
Beyond the beaches, Oceanside is teeming with sights and attractions that will have you wondering how you never visited this California beauty before. At the Oceanside Harbor, fine dining and charming shops and boutiques are the perfect respite from the sandy shore, while the Oceanside Pier is the perfect resting spot for a glorious sunset with only the Pacific Ocean in sight. Active pursuits are also available away from the water on the several stunning golf courses that dot the area, including the Emerald Isle Golf Course, Oceanside Golf Course, and the Center City Golf Course.
As the most historically significant and picturesque attraction in the area, a stop by the Mission San Luis Rey de Francia should be near the top of every itinerary. The mission, founded in 1798, features an impressive combination of Spanish, Mexican, and Moorish influences that is architecturally stunning in person. Other facets of history can be found around Oceanside at the Buena Vista Audubon Society Nature Center, where natural history blossoms among the native flora and fauna, and at the California Surf Museum, which seeks to preserve artifacts and memorabilia related to this popular ocean sport.
While the local attractions provide insight into the influences and priorities of this community, the nearby attractions of San Diego offer entertainment and excitement that is simply beyond compare. Only a short, forty-minute drive away, the city features world-famous amusements such as the San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park along with new favorites like Legoland, which has rides, shows, and attractions that appeal to visitors of all ages. If you have never been or it has been years since your last visit, be sure to check out SeaWorld for its exhilarating marine shows, complete with Shamu, and various zoological displays.
With something to satisfy the tastes of every visitor, your Oceanside getaway will be filled with smiles and cheers as you roam the banks of this coastal retreat. While you know that your time outdoors will be filled with endless activities and attractions, don’t forget about occupying your time indoors with a vacation home rental. Oceanside vacation rentals can keep the laughter going with their game rooms, media rooms, and plenty of space for a family game night. Put cramped and unwelcoming hotel rooms in the past and enjoy the convenience, space, and amenities that an Oceanside rental has to offer for your dream vacation in this seaside paradise.
Jen W.
http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/oceanside-california-sun-surf-and-san-diego-104332.html
Posted on Mar 12, 2010 under Pacific Beaches |
If you are looking for a cool new place to travel on your next vacation, then perhaps what you need is a nice trip to a sunny tropical island. With so many different islands out there in the Atlantic and the Pacific, finding the right travel destination can be a real chore though. So, what is a person to do when they are faced with the problem of choosing a great tropical destination to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Well, they choose a place that can give them the relaxing tropical atmosphere that they need while also providing them with relatively cheap rates and all of the top notch services you would expect from a world class travel destination. In other words, they choose a trip to an island like Aruba.
You probably remember a year or so back when an American girl went missing during her trip to an island country. Unfortunately, that island was Aruba. However, since that incident, Aruba has been greatly trying to improve their view in the eyes of world travelers and now offers amazing discounts and rates for people who want to visit. While Aruba was never an extremely expensive place to travel to, it is now much, much cheaper than other islands where people head off to on vacation. In comparison to a trip to Tahiti or Hawaii, a similar vacation to Aruba is much less expensive, so you get more bang for your buck, you can stay longer or you can live like kings. You may have to act quickly however if you want to get these great discounts on travel to Aruba, as since more people are not taking advantage of these reduced rates, travel to this beautiful island country has skyrocketed.
Aruba, like many other island resort destinations, presents its visitors with beautiful scenery that can only be found at island vacation spots. With crystal clear waters, green hills and long, sandy beaches, Aruba is certainly an island paradise which people should see at least once in their lives. Even if you cannot find time in your busy schedule to visit an island like Aruba, be sure that you book a cruise that uses Aruba as one of its ports of call so you can check out what this incredible territory has to offer. Whether you are going to plan a vacation for a day, a week or a month to an island country, Aruba should top your list of places to go, as it gives you everything you would expect to find in an island country alongside of low prices, great places to stay and amazing services that you may not expect to find. So, when planning your next trip, why not skip Hawaii, forget Tahiti and instead give Aruba a try, you will be glad you did.
Bill Urell
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/can-you-picture-yourself-on-a-beach-in-aruba-57210.html
Posted on Mar 09, 2010 under Pacific Beaches |
Tahitian Islands, otherwise French Polynesia, is an aggregation of 35 islands and 83 atolls. Each of the islands and atolls in French Polynesia is truly incredible and is considered a paradise on earth.
Cruising along the Tahiti and its islands is really an unforgettable experience, with its perfect turquoise and crystal-like blue waters, enchanting tropical scenery, superb white sandy beaches, year-round salubrious climate, cooling breezes, and above all, the outstandingly welcoming French Polynesian natives.
In other words, no other options would be better than embarking on an ocean voyage to explore the romantic as well as unspoilt islets of the South Pacific. After a cruising along the Tahitian islands as well as some of the majestic destinations, it is obvious that you feel as if some of your dreams have been fulfilled.
Some of the much preferred destinations for shore excursions in the Tahitian islands are Tahiti, also referred to as the ‘Queen of the Pacific;’ Bora Bora, a much favored destination among the honeymooners and newly weds; Moorea, a spectacular vacation spot noted for its deep bays and majestic beaches; Raiatea, endowed with lush scenery; Taha’a, with its green valleys and paradise-like sandy beaches; and Huahine, an isolated island bestowed with lush tropical vegetation and velvety green slopes.
Tahitian cruising is quite unique, and allows you to choose from a variety of ships and itineraries. Among which, perhaps the most popular cruise lines are Regent with its M/S Paul Gauguin and Princess along with Tahitian Princess. Regent Paul Gaugin, with facilities to accommodate 320 guests, offers a week long cruise, starting from the bustling capital city, Papeete in Tahiti.
Attached with almost all high-end facilities, Regent Paul Gaugin provides its guests options to enjoy an array of activities, with its Fare Tahiti Gallery, displaying Polynesian art and artifacts, vibrant folkloric shows, and small boats as well as ships in order to navigate through narrow channels and shallow lagoons, where larger vessels cannot traverse.
On the other hand, the 594 feet long Tahitian Princess carries 670 passengers, and usually offers 10-day long cruise. Voyagers can choose from any of the three unique itineraries. Usually, the trip starts from Papeete, Tahiti, and includes calls at such destinations as Moorea, Bora Bora, and Raiatea. On board facilities cover more than 200 cabins with private balcony, four restaurants, poolside barbeque grill, beauty saloon, and duty free shops.
Both of these cruise lines are excellent for first-time cruisers. They provide a deep insight into the local Tahitian culture as well as authentic music and dance shows of the region. Additionally, these cruise ships traverse through almost all must-see Tahitian islands including Bora Bora, Raiatea, Taha’a, and Moorea, and offer superb facilities to enjoy a range of activities from waterskiing and fishing to snorkeling and kayaking.
Excellent options are also available in the form of boutique ships such as Bora Bora Cruises, operating two cruise yachts, each of them with capacity to carry 70 passengers. Another great option for Tahitian cruising is Archipels Cruises, departing from Bora Bora. Archipels Cruises offers yachts and comfy catamarans to explore the majestic beauty of the islands.
For adventurers, cruise lines such as Aranui 3, with capacity to hold 200 passengers, provide 16-day adventure trip, starting from Papeete and covering some incredible destinations in the Tuamotu and the Marquesas archipelagos. This cruise line allows you to discover the world’s uncharted regions in an in-depth manner. Further, cruising with the Aranui 3 enables you to experience the unspoilt scenery of remote islands and atolls.
In addition, many of the major cruise lines offers superb value packages for weddings, honeymoons, and to celebrate wedding anniversaries. However, it is recommended to make bookings in advance at least three months before.
Cruising through the Tahitian islands is not only a great way to explore the serenity of these islands but also a great alternative over staying in some high-end accommodations in the region. For instance, staying in the renowned water bungalows spread across the lagoons of Bora Bora as well as Moorea, it costs about $900 per night.
A lot number of tour operators and agents are now to provide you everything in order to make your Tahitian vacation unforgettable. Some of them even take care everything from arranging for a memorable time in both land and water to options to enjoy a variety of activities including sightseeing. Since many of them have their own websites, it enables you to make bookings easily online and that too within the comforts of your home.
Wolfgang Jaegel
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/tahiti-cruise-is-not-to-be-missed-263604.html
Posted on Mar 06, 2010 under Pacific Beaches |
When visiting Los Angeles, you will come across the pulse of the second largest metropolitan region within the United States. As soon as you visit this city, you will encounter a variety of diverse communities, including the infamous Hollywood region, and the entertaining Downtown section of the city. Below you will find some of the most popular stops in Los Angeles to consider when planning a trip to an area:
Hollywood
Whether you’ve heard of this district from the media or read about the legends in the pages of gossip magazines, Hollywood is often referred to as the entertainment capital of the world. When visiting this section of the city, you will find the Walk of Fame, which is situated along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street. Honored at this attraction, you will find a variety of theatre, radio, movie and television personalities to explore.
Sunset Boulevard
When visiting Los Angeles, many first-time visitors often head for this location to experience an array of exciting city aspects. Some of the most well known sights in the area include a variety of clubs, studios, and hotels that have made guest appearances in some of the most recognizable films and TV shows. After following this street, you will also encounter a couple of legendary California beaches, which have even served as film sets for the once-popular Baywatch TV series.
Museum Row (Wilshire Boulevard)
The museums situated on this street offer a wide range of themed establishments, which offer exhibits ranging from natural history to modern art. Some of the sights you might want to visit include the La Brea Tar Pits, Craft & Folk Art Museum, Petersen Automotive Museum, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. As you head for this section of the city, you should know that a day doesn’t do this attraction-riddled row justice.
Disneyland
Mickey and Minnie Mouse aren’t just for the kiddies. Visitors of all ages add Disneyland to their itinerary, even if it’s just to say they’ve been there. It is a must-see attraction that some only dream about. Whether you hop on the Pirate’s of the Caribbean ride, experience Space Mountain, or enjoy a tasty meal at one of the many eateries, the atmosphere is like traveling through a living fantasy.
Santa Monica Beach & Pacific Park
The Santa Monica Beach is considered one of the most famous beaches in the Los Angeles area, which has been used to shoot films and television shows, such as Three’s Company. This youth-filled beach land often accommodates more than 90,000 visitors. Some of the features here include arcade games, and rides such as the West Coaster or the Pacific Wheel. Venice Beach is also in the area, which offers great opportunities to rollerblade, catch a tan, and swim. Shoppers may also visit the nearby Third Street Promenade.
Gabriel Adams
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/top-5-things-to-do-in-la-111874.html
Posted on Mar 03, 2010 under Pacific Beaches |
It is the dream of every couple to celebrate their honeymoon in a memorable as well as unique way. Honeymoon is regarded as a newly weds’ first step towards the marriage life. However, honeymoon is not only for newly weds but also for the couples married years back. No other destination in the world would be better than the South Pacific’s French Polynesia, popularly known by the name of its main island Tahiti, for an unforgettable honeymoon.
Tahiti is an incomparably romantic destination on the earth, and is regarded as a perfect spot to renew marriage vows and celebrate wedding anniversaries. Often referred to as the ‘Island of Love,’ Tahiti, along with its 117 islands, provides the ultimate romantic getaway. From its main island Tahiti and much celebrated Bora Bora to the exotic Moorea and Rangiroa, each of the Tahitian islands is exceptional, and is shrouded in legends.
With its intoxicating settings consisting of green valleys filled with aromatic flowers, long stretches of beautiful white sandy beaches, quiet motus (islets), sparkling blue lagoons, and much more, Tahiti offers superb options for an enjoyable honeymoon. Probably, the prime reason that makes Tahiti and her islands a unique destination would be its seclusion. Endowed with cherished resorts, tiny tranquil villages, and isolated pristine beaches, Tahiti provides ultimate seclusion.
Another specialty that Tahitian islands offer for honeymooners and newly weds is over-water bungalows, built across the turquoise lagoon waters. These thatched-roof bungalows offer all facilities and amenities that a first class hotel or resort renders.
If you want to make your honeymoon truly special, then start it with a wedding conducted in traditional Tahitian style. Likewise, take a honeymoon cruise through the legendary South Pacific aboard super yachts, bareboat, freighter passenger, or top-end cruise ships with staterooms featuring private deck and superb meals, to experience the incredible beauty of the French Polynesian Islands.
Additionally, to spend a relaxed as well as enjoyable time with your better half, one of the best options would be take a pampering Polynesian spa while experiencing the tropical ambience. During your honeymoon in Tahiti, an array of activities can be enjoyed here, which among many others, are scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, boating, safaris, shopping, and hiking.
Above all, an important aspect of a Tahitian honeymoon is the warmness of the people found here. The natives of French Polynesia are proud of their islands as well as culture, and are always eager to share them with the honeymooners and other tourists visiting the islands. Further, they always greet with you a smile.
One of the much famed destinations for celebrating honeymoon in French Polynesia is Tahiti, the largest among the 118 French Polynesian islands, which is home to Papeete – the bustling capital city and attractions like the Gauguin Museum. Located about 11 miles northwest of Tahiti is yet another popular honeymoon destination, Moorea – an awe-inspiring 51-square-mile island with a host of attractions including Tiki village. Acknowledged as the ‘Jewel of the South Seas,’ Bora Bora also provides an unforgettable ambience for honeymoons. Other islands in French Polynesia such as Raiatea, Tahaa, Rangiroa, and Huahine also offer adventure and romance for honeymooners.
There are a myriad of upscale resorts and hotels in Tahiti to cater to all of your needs in order to make your honeymoon truly special and unforgettable. Many of these hotels offer elegantly appointed rooms with comfortable beds, bath facilities, private balconies, and luxurious amenities including plasma TV with satellite and internet connections, apart from providing elegant views of the surroundings. In contrast to many hotels that share large lagoon, there are some high-end hotels that are situated on their own islands, thereby providing ultimate in privacy and exclusivity.
In addition, many resorts and hotels offer superb value packages for an enjoyable honeymoon, which are also sometimes customized according to couples’ specifications. In most cases, honeymoon packages are inclusive of five to seven unforgettable days in Tahiti, ocean view rooms with Jacuzzi, economy flights with Air Tahiti Nui, and facilities for island hopping.
In some instances, packages are crafted with all land transfers in Tahiti and Bora Bora, American breakfast, and romantic dinner. If you are well-heeled and can spend lavishly for your Tahitian honeymoon, then choose such packages designed with roundtrip airfare from the US on Air Tahiti Nui, superb spa facilities, cruising, romantic candlelit dinner, private airport transfers, and inter-island air transfers on Air Tahiti. These packages would be much affordable if they are booked in advance of the departure dates.
Apart from these, a continuum of tour operators is also in the scenario to help you in making your honeymoon in Tahiti truly memorable. All you have to do is to inform them in advance your likes and dislikes, and how many days would you like to spend in Tahiti. With just a click of mouse, you can easily do this.
So, this time come and renew your marriage vows in the Tahitian islands, each of which is really a tiny paradise on earth.
Wolfgang Jaegel
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-dream-honeymoon-in-tahiti-256220.html
Posted on Feb 28, 2010 under Pacific Beaches |
The Panama real estate is developing rapidly today. This is because there are many investments that are being made in Panama real estate. The investments that are made in Panama real estate are being encouraged by the government of the country. There are many undeveloped lands that are coming under development projects that make the country a land of paradise. With abundant natural beauty and a warm tropical weather it is the perfect get away spot. People from all over the world today are coming here to spend quality vacation time. There are many facilities that are available to the tourists in Panama property. Much is done for the comfort of the tourists in the country today. There are loads of projects that are being developed under the Panama property development scheme in which there are many resorts and hotels being made. All this is being done to encourage tourism in the country. The country is a nature lover’s paradise. The country maintains a wonderful eco system. You will find many endangered species of birds and animals here. Also you will find birds of many species in the country. There are many natural reserves also in the country where you can find animal in their natural habitat. The beaches make wonderful places to enjoy and relax yourself while you are at vacation. The beaches are on both Caribbean and the pacific coasts. Therefore you can take your time to visit both these beaches and enjoy your vacation in the country. The Panama property resorts are great place to spend your vacation too.
If beaches are not the thing for your and you are looking for some more adventure then you should check out the mountains of Panama. These mountains will provide the peace and quite that you desire after your long hard spell of daily work. You can escape off to these mountains on Panama real estate for a spell of rest and relaxation. These mountains will help you to relax and do things at your own pace while you are on vacation. If you are looking for some sports then you can opt for mountain climbing or river rafting. These activities are exclusively available at these mountains on Panama real estate. The biggest advantage in coming to Panama for a vacation is the low cost of living. Even though it is a paradise on earth the low costs of living are the best for a person to spend quality vacation on. If you have a European source of income then you will benefit the most from the weak dollar here. The untouched natural beauty will help you heal and will rejuvenate you for your daily routine. Once you visit Panama you will be sure to consider buying Panama property. It is not odd for tourists to come back later and settle down in Panama property permanently. It is also one of the favorite retirement spots for many people all over the world. The country is a place that is waiting to be discovered with its many natural beauties that are to be enjoyed the most by you on your vacation here.
Laurie Cooper
http://www.articlesbase.com/real-estate-articles/panama-an-untapped-paradise-738392.html
Posted on Feb 25, 2010 under Pacific Beaches |
The global recession has without doubt hit everyone, Panama is not an exception however the full impact of the recession has not been felt hard in Panama as of yet. During the Christmas shopping season, malls in Panama City are swarmed with thousands and thousands of people shopping; the economy felt vibrant, good times are still rolling. A layer below what seems like a booming economy still in full force up swing of the good times a breeze of the coming storm can be felt as businesses begin to prepare for what could be one of the toughest years in the last decade. The highs and booming growths in the last 6 years have been steep and steady so now the pendulum will swing downward with this upward impulse -
The Panama real estate market is preparing for the shock of first wave of hundreds of new City condominiums units that will be coming into the market. Occupancy permits to be issued and the buyers mostly, speculators that purchased two years ago with as little as 10% down are now responsible for meeting the full impact of the remainder of their debt on these units. The economic outlook for most of these buyers has changed; they face a different economic reality than they expected 2 years ago. Now, they do not have many options and the clock is running, their options are either to re-sell those units quickly at cost with little or no capital gains, or losing the units back to the developer for defaulting on the promise to purchase agreement.
These “distressed Sellers” – and this scenario are likely to be abundant in 2009. This scenario will affect the economies of supply and demand mostly the City condo market will shift from what has been up to now a seller’s market with prices rising steadily in period of months to by up to 100% without rhyme or reason to a BUYERS MARKET. This will create a price adjustment that will bring another wave of buyers seeking deals in Panama City. This price adjustment will also allow for younger local buyers to be able to afford the price of City condos that up to now had been out of their reach and exclusively for foreign investors. This possible surplus in condo units can create a shift to lowering pricing strategies and many developers may have to re-consider their pricing strategies to compete, this may bring about the cancelling of several residential developments in the city.
This negative spin offset by several phenomenons.
- New buyers coming into the market deriving from political instability in countries like Venezuela and Ecuador, seeking shelter and a plan B in Panama.
- Companies coming into Panama to set up their global operations.
- A new wave of new-found investors coming into Panama seeking to invest in this warm tropical paradise.
Panama stands out as one of the most globalized countries in Latin America and a leader in attracting foreign investment and several key projects guaranteed to be moving forward in 2009. The Panama Canal expansion, the Howard- London Regional residential and commercial development zone, and the cinta costera road expansion, along with sustained growth in tourism, business travel, telecommunications, and other key sectors and commercial activities will serve to absorb some of the economic impact, allowing Panama to deliver a solid 3% to 4% economic growth in 2009
I am confident that in 2009 Panama blessed with its prime location, two oceans (Pacific and Atlantic oceans), beautiful nature and landscapes, and the globalized city ideal for international business will compensate the slowdown of a few sectors, construction, real estate, transportation, and offset with small-sustained growth in others to deliver balanced growth in 2009. Panama is still a very HOT place to invest in 2009- Now more than ever with prices going down the market conditions are favorable for finding Excellent DEALS & Great BUYS in oceanfront real estate property. Check out PANAMA properties listings at ThinkPanama.com, search properties by lifestyle: city condo, beaches, land, or contact me at dchoy@ThinkPanama.com
Douglas Choy
http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/panama-real-estate-2009-predictions-714398.html
Posted on Feb 22, 2010 under Pacific Beaches |
Australia is a vast country – almost as large as the contiguous United States – and it is impossible to experience everything that the country has to offer in one visit. Some attractions should not be missed. These include both man-made and natural wonders as well as the fascinating culture and traditions of the country’s very first inhabitants.
Most visitors fly into Sydney, which has one of the most spectacular settings of any city in the world. Sydney is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city, although just visiting the city’s many beautiful beaches is a popular activity. It also boasts two of the most instantly recognizable landmarks anywhere – the Harbor Bridge and the Opera House. If you have a head for heights, do not miss the opportunity to walk across the top of the Sydney Harbor Bridge – it is a once in a lifetime experience.
One highlight of a visit to Australia is the chance to experience the culture of the native Aborigines. Plenty of places throughout the country have Aboriginal art and crafts for sale, especially in the country’s famous Outback. The isolated town of Alice Springs makes an excellent base for exploring Aboriginal culture; and to really immerse yourself, consider taking an Aboriginal Culture Tour – although you may be expected to eat traditional delicacies such as wasps.
No visit to Australia is complete without seeing one of the wonders of nature – the Great Barrier Reef. The reef’s statistics are staggering – it stretches for about 1,200 miles along the eastern coast of Australia, and is home to an estimated 1,500 species of fish. It’s supposedly the only living feature on earth visible from the moon. There are several ways to experience the reef – you can sail around it and fly over it; but to dive in the clearwaters is a memorable experience.
Australia’s other big natural wonder is Uluru, or Ayers Rock, which is located about 260 miles from Alice Springs. You can see the rock that is considered the world’s largest monolith by flying over it, driving around it or hiking up it. Various tours are available from both Alice Springs and the resort of Ayers Rock. If you visit this resort, make sure you see the rock at sunset – it is an unforgettable sight.
If you have the time, a three day journey by train from Sydney to Perth on the Indian Pacific is considered one of the world’s great rail journeys. It is fair to say that there are no sights along the way, other than the hypnotic spectacle of the vast emptiness of much of Australia. The trip includes the longest straight stretch of rail track anywhere, which is an almost 300-mile stretch across the Nullarbor Plain.
If you prefer to drive, a driving trip through Australia’s legendary Outback is a great way to see the country and appreciate its sheer size. You may not encounter much traffic but watch out for the so-called road trains – huge tractor-trailers up to fifty yards long; as well as Australia’s unique animals and birds. Broken Hill is a good place to soak up the atmosphere of the Outback. It is the home of the legendary Flying Doctor service, as well as a ghost town and an opal mine.
Most people imagine Australia to be dry and dusty, but the far north of the country is close to the equator and much of it consists of tropical rainforests. Townsville and Port Douglas both make good bases for exploring the tropical north, which contains some of the world’s oldest rain forests, as well as a huge variety of animal life. Take one of the many off-road guided tours that are available, or view the rainforest from the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, near Cairns.
Located in Australia’s Northern Territories is the huge Kakadu National Park, a World Heritage Sight which covers over 4 million acres. A favorite activity is simply observing the wildlife and the park boasts an estimated 75 species of reptile and over 200 species of birds. The park is also one of the few places in Australia where Aborigines live off the land and exist much as they have done for centuries.
Australian wines are considered to be some of the best in the world and you can spend an enjoyable vacation visiting vineyards and sampling wines. Many people visit the well-known Hunter Valley wine region because of its close proximity to Sydney, although the nicest region for wine tasting is arguably the Barossa region, a German-speaking area about an hour away from Adelaide.
One activity you should not miss is simply getting to know the Australian people, who are friendly and outgoing. The language is the same – although you may be puzzled by references to mysterious things such as “sheilas”, “billabongs” and the ever-popular “shrimp on the Barbie”!
Stephanie Larkin
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/top-activities-on-an-australian-vacation-727428.html
Posted on Feb 19, 2010 under Pacific Beaches |
A sparkling jewel of San Diego, the La Jolla area is a picture perfect post card with several beaches along more than seven miles of coast against an array of rolling hills known as Mount Soledad.
Being a part of San Diego, La Jolla is only 15 minutes from the downtown district. Along with beautiful scenery, the area also offers many fine restaurants, art galleries, hotels and resorts, and many other attractions such as the Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
The Birch Aquarium is also a part of La Jolla, giving you the chance to enter the exciting world of sharks, living coral reefs, and many other undersea exhibits. This aquarium showcases the mysteries of the ocean and what actually lives there.
The shoreline of La Jolla consists of rocky headlands separated by pristine coves and sandy beaches. All along the beach, you can find many different hotels and resorts, designed to make your stay a little bit better.
The North Pacific Beach extends to La Jolla, traveling from the Crystal Pier in Pacific Beach. If you travel north of this area, you’ll find yourself on the beaches of La Jolla.
By going to the south end of the La Jolla shoreline, you’ll find Windandsea Beach. Windandsea Beach has long had a reputation for surfer’s paradise, although the steep beaches and rocky cliffs can be very dangerous if you aren’t aware of them.
Close to downtown La Jolla, there is an area called Casa, which used to be a children’s pool. Now days, the area has been taken over by seals and sea lions. Although children can’t swim here anymore, it’s a great pastime to lie on the beach and watch them play.
Traveling along the La Jolla shoreline, you’ll find the tide pools. These pools are great to look at, although you shouldn’t touch them. You should visit during low tide and be sure to wear rubber soled shoes, as they can get quite slippery.
The cove in La Jolla is very beautiful, although one of the smaller beaches in San Diego. On either side of the cove, there are sandstone cliffs. This helps to add an isolated feel to the cove.
Throughout La Jolla, the Shores Beach is the widest and longest beach. If you look off to the distance on the beach, you can see the Scripps Pier. Also on the beach, there are novice scuba classes held throughout the summer months.
With plenty to offer you and your family, the beaches of La Jolla are among the best in San Diego. There’s plenty to do and see here, with dining and swimming. For a great visit to the beach, La Jolla seems to simplify the best of life in California.
Mark Allen
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/la-jolla-the-jewel-of-san-diego-89862.html