With a whole host of diverse treasures in store, Hawaii is like no other place on Earth. From the vibrant shores of Waikiki Beach on Oahu to the dynamic cliffs of the Napali Coast on the island of Kauai, the islands of Hawaii have plenty of treats in store for first time, and repeat, visitors.

Choosing what to do as part of your Hawaiian adventure certainly won’t be easy but if you plan in advance, you will be able to incorporate as much, or as little, as you like during your visit. Once you’ve flown into Oahu, the adventure is yours for the taking. From the major airport on the island, you will have access to neighbouring islands too, including Lanai and Molokai, which are perfect spots for beach breaks and dolphin spotting excursions.

Dolphin spotting, watersports, national parks – you name it, Hawaii has got it. It doesn’t stop there, either. These islands, the northernmost of Polynesia, are rich in culture and, as part of your visit, it’d be hard not to be engrossed in it. There are plenty of historical landmarks to visit as part of your trip if you’d like to embrace the culture and learn more about the local history, or attend an authentic luau which will bring you face-to-face with the local party culture, including the art of the hula dance.

Whether you choose to lie back on a sandy beach and laze in the sun as the waves crash around your feet, or you prefer to take full advantage of your visit to the islands and utilise the time to see as much as possible, you can guarantee that a trip to Hawaii won’t leave you disappointed. From whale watching to walking on one of the volcanoes, such as the Halemaumau Crater on Hawaii’s Big Island, possibilities are endless.

It may be the most recent addition to the US states, but Hawaii is on a completely different page to the rest of the USA. Consider a trip to Hawaii for your next big break and you’ll see why it’s such a special destination.

General article touching on major whitewater rafting locations in Canada.

Forget seeking thrills in crowded theme parks filled with man-made rides that offer you mere minutes of gratification. If you’re looking to be awed, take an adrenaline-pumping journey where Canada’s rugged terrain meets crystal clear water–creating some of the best whitewater rafting opportunities on the planet.

Here are just a few of the Great White North’s best whitewater locations that promise to take your breath away.

Satisfied adventure-seekers on the Ottawa River.

Photo courtesy of photos.com

The Mighty Ottawa

The Ottawa River is, perhaps, one of Canada’s most famous adventure waterways. Anointed a Canadian Heritage River, the mighty Ottawa is home to several whitewater rafting companies and resorts.

• Wilderness Tours. In operation since 1975, over a million water sports enthusiasts have hit the rapids with Wilderness Tours, a company that the Globe and Mail has labelled “Top Dog on the Ottawa River.” Offering everything from company retreats to family getaways, they are committed to providing visitors with a great time, while providing top-notch equipment and protecting your safety. An environmentally conscious company, Wilderness Tours has also placed approximately 5000 acres in a land trust for its preservation.

• River Run. A short distance from the world renowned Algonquin Park, this 165 acre resort offers a plethora of amenities. River Run operates rafting trips that range from calm and serene to shooting World Class rapids. And, when you return to land, enjoy the use of a private beach, horseshoes, a sauna, the Riverrunners’ Pub, and more.

• Esprit. The Petawawa River, a tributary to the Ottawa River, is known for its technical difficulty. Like a rollercoaster in water, this is a must-do for all hardcore whitewater enthusiasts. Esprit will take you through the Class III and IV rapids twice. They are also involved in the annual Hell or High Water Races, when the water is at its wildest following the spring thaw.

The Shubenacadie River, one of Lonely Planet’s top picks

Image courtesy of: rjcox via photopin cc

The Tidal Shubenacadie

Named one of Canada’s top five rivers by Lonely Planet, the Shubenacadie River promises awesome adventures. Here are some ways to enjoy this Nova Scotia treat.

• Tidal Boar Rafting. A mere hour outside of Halifax, this 180 acre piece of heaven offers vacationers air-conditioned cottages with satellite TV, barbecues, a swimming pool, and a beautiful hilltop restaurant. This relaxing atmosphere will be welcomed after a ride down this tidal river. Whether you opt for the 10 mile trip with eight sets of rapids or the shorter 6 mile version, you will be awed by this whitewater trip and the chance to see the world’s highest tides in action.

• Shubenacadie River Adventure Tours. Boasting a 300 acre woodland and 5000 feet of waterfront, this facility offers horseshoes, a trout pond, swimming pool, observation deck, and more. Board the Zodiacs at low-tide and take a meander past beautiful sandbars and ancient Acadian dyke lands. And, then, encounter the tidal bore and witness the amazing power that is the Bay of Fundy and her awesome incoming tide.

Happy rafters on the Squamish River

Image courtesy of: Urban Mixer via photopin cc

The Bouncy Squamish

Take in the splendor that is British Columbia as you explore the outback via the Elaho and Squamish Rivers–a mighty duo that packs a thrilling punch. Here are a few ways to explore this beautiful area near Vancouver and Whistler.

• Canadian Outback Adventures. The largest whitewater rafting company in the region, Canadian Outback prides itself on having an adventure to suit every age, taste, and ability. With state-of-the-art equipment and stellar guides, they make safety a top priority. And, if you are feeling particularly adventurous, you can opt for a helicopter and rafting combo or face the challenging “Devil’s Elbow” as seen on Mark Burnett’s Eco-Challenge Adventure.

• Wedge Rafting. Referred to as “a tale of two rivers and a mid-season classic,” Wedge Rafting company promises to explore the thrilling rapids of the Elaho and the bouncing fun of the Squamish. An eight hour adventure filled with pulse-quickening excitement and breath-taking vistas, this trip will hold a firm place in your memory for years to come. Top off your day with the catered gourmet barbecue hosted by your guides.

Whether you are heading for the East Coast, the Pacific, or somewhere in the middle, Canada is home to awesome whitewaters begging to be rafted. So head north. Adventure awaits, eh.

What are your favorite Canadian whitewater rafting spots?

Kimberley Laws is a freelance writer and avid blogger. She is a huge fan of anything that involves water including whitewater rafting, canoeing, and water-skiing. She has written on a multitude of topics including social media marketing, online reputation management, and blogging tools. You can follow her at The Embiggens Project.

New York City

In popular culture, many have referred to New York as the greatest city on earth. This is one of the top US destinations worldwide. The skyline is chock-a-bloc with some of the greatest icons of USA, icons that have become legendary worldwide. There is the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State building and so many other places to go. One of the most crowded places is the iconic Times Square. Popularly called the ‘Crossroads of the world’, this Manhattan hub seems millions of tourists annually.

Hollywood

As the popular Madonna track goes, “Everybody wants to go to Hollywood”. Looking at the tourist footfall, it sure seems that way. Whether its celebrity spotting that excites you, or lounging on the famous LA beaches, it is all there in the city of angels. Take a tour through Beverly Hills, sunbathe at Malibu or go shopping on Rodeo Drive.

Washington, DC

After all, how can a visit to a country be complete without a trip to the Capital itself? Again, DC is a place where you get to see some of the most iconic landmarks and monuments that you have already seen in the media so many times. Go through the 1,000 acres of the National Mall as well as the Memorial Parks. Look at the Washington, Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials. Don’t forget to visit the memorials for the Vietnam War vets. The best part is that most of these museums and memorials are free of charge. At the end, wrap up your trip with a visit the renowned museums of the Smithsonian. Be forewarned, there are 19 of them!

Disney World’s Magic Kingdom

In Florida, the Magic Kingdom is the biggest tourist draw. It is closely followed by the Disney Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. Go on unforgettable rides aboard the Big Thunder Mountain railroad and also the Country Bear Jamboree.

Las Vegas

Haven’t you heard the famous one liner, “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas” so many times in the movies? Called an oasis in the desert, Las Vegas is not only for the casinos. If you have money to spare, go try your luck at one of the numerous casinos.  Don’t forget to tour the glitzy city for shows, shopping and some top class eating places. There is a reason why it’s called the Neon Trail.

Niagara Falls

Right on the border between the States and Canada, the Niagara Falls has been a top tourist draw for a very long time. There are different ways to view those phenomenal falls including by boat, observation tours and also through hiking, for those who are up for it. The Falls see millions of visitors every year.

Aloha

If you want to get away from it all, then what better place than Hawaii? Again, a top order destination for tourists, this place is paradise. From the scenic beauty to the looming volcanoes, what could be better as an ideal holiday destination? Also, do take time out to find out and witness some of the rich South Pacific culture and traditions of this place.

These are only some of the top choices while visiting the United States. There is so much to see and so many places to go.

About the author

Dave is the tour guide head of a NJ tourism agency in New Jersey – http://www.funnewjersey.com/. He has helped create holiday packages for domestic tourists. He loves to cook Italian food in his spare time.

What’s this have to do with walking tours of Toronto, you ask? Well, Toronto is historically known as “Hogtown,” and what better way to learn about pork history than to take a Toronto food tour through some of the city’s neatest establishments, and visit one of Toronto’s best butcher shops to learn everything you ever wanted to know about pork.

This Toronto Urban Adventures walking tour is appropriately titled “When Pigs Fry” and is just one of about 8 public tours offered by Toronto Urban Adventures. Their tours cover topics like beer, graffiti, multiculturalism, history, local businesses, and, of course, bacon.

Toronto is a cool city and a great city for walking. Its various ethnic and colorful neighborhoods combined with interesting and unique architecture make the city a great place to explore. Just be prepared to eat at one of the cute little cafes along the way so you don’t run out of energy. If you really wanted to, you could spend hours walking the streets of Toronto.

Another tour company, Muddy York Walking Tours, presents the history of Toronto in a fun and exciting fashion.

“Too often, history – especially Canadian history – is presented as being a dry and boring subject. Not for us,” according to Muddy York Walking Tours’ website.

“We believe that exploring our city’s past is a fun and exciting way to spend a few hours, whether you are a visitor to our city, or a life long resident. We offer several tours which try to present the past as an authentic playground for those who want to know how the modern city of Toronto came to be.”

Join Muddy York’s founder, Richard Fiennes-Clinton, as he leads you on one of a dozen tours around the city. Each tour offers a vision of Toronto’s past, translated through various unique and exciting themes. I’d personally like to take the “Haunted Streets of Downtown Toronto,” “Ghosts of the University of Toronto,” and

“Bloody York : Crime and Punishment,” tours – or one of the “Neighborhood Tours.”

Frommer’s travel guides put together 5 different walking tours encompassing dozens of different stops, which includes everything from the iconic CN Tower to the Art Gallery of Ontario to the Jump Café and Bar. The list is huge, so read more here: http://www.frommers.com/destinations/toronto/0034010008.html#ixzz2TyHqE56I

There are plenty of passionate companies and individuals out there offering walking tours. If you’d like to take a free tour, consider ROMwalks. From May to October, volunteers from the Royal Ontario Museum provide free walking tours exploring architecture, art and history. Most tours take place on Wednesday evenings or Sunday afternoons. Walks do not begin at the ROM – check individual walk listings for meeting locations.

If the idea of walking miles and miles of pedestrian tunnels and shopping underground sounds like a good time, then choose the PATH. PATH is a 28-kilometre (17 mi) mostly underground network beneath the office towers of downtown Toronto. According to Guinness World Records, PATH is the largest underground shopping complex in the world, with 4 million square feet of retail space. Whoa. You may never get out of there.

One reviewer on TripAdvisor said she’s never seen such an elaborate food court in her life. The variety and quality is way better than anything she’s experienced in the U.S.

Lastly, Toronto CityPASS is not a tour, but if you’re visiting the city it might be a good option for you and your family. It’s a ticket booklet with actual admission tickets to some of Toronto’s top attractions: CN Tower, Toronto Zoo, Royal Ontario Museum, Casa Loma and Ontario Science Centre. You can see these places at your convenience, and the booklet is valid for 9 days.

This post was provided by Melissa Davidson, Manager of Social Media at CityPASS.

1. 1.     Where its popularity came from

In the 1960s the popular teenage comedy film “where the boys are” was set in the city. This lead to an influx of at least 50,000 young fans looking to see the where the film was shot for themselves. This created America´s first spring break destination where thousands of students would visit every year for sun, sea and nightlife. However, post the 1980s the upscale hotels and luxury shops came to the forefront and the area now attracts 10 million guests every year to a more up-market beach chic atmosphere and facilities.

1. 2.     Its history

Since 1911 when Fort Lauderdale was first officially declared as a city, it has grown by 75%, making it the fastest growing city in the state. During the real estate boom in the 1920s the beach was recognized as a tourist asset, Port Everglades opened and construction continued. Even through the following difficult decades of war, depression and environment disasters, development managed to continue. The marinas opened and oceanfront properties followed until the modern tourist center of today became established, full of eateries, shops and hotels.

1. 3.     Entertainment

In the historic downtown district of Fort Lauderdale near the new river is the Riverwalk Arts and Entertainments District. Along the lane, the city´s (and some of the state´s) best cultural attractions can be found including Broward Center for Performing Arts, the Museum of Discovery and Science, Florida Grand Opera and the Bonnet House Museum. Shops, restaurants, bars and clubs make the area a must for those seeking a sunshine filled cultural affair.

1. 4.     Educational opportunities

Fort Lauderdale´s quality of life, pleasant climate, arts and culture scene and employment opportunities in sectors such as real estate and film and television production attract students from all over the USA and the world to study in the city. The City’s downtown district houses Broward Community College, Florida Atlantic University and Florida International University. The city also attracts those looking for English language schools  as the area provides quality tuition and cultural experiences. Attending an English school in Fort Lauderdale gives students the opportunity to enjoy all that the coastal city has to offer in place where English is natively spoken.

1. 5.     Port Everglades, Greater Fort Lauderdale

Port Everglades is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, the biggest container port in Florida and one of the most active and diverse cargo seaports in the USA. Receiving essential suppliers of gasoline and fuel, it is important to the area’s economic activity, providing and impacting the jobs of thousands of locals.

International Language Academy of Canada (ILAC) will be placed in preferable slot by many because of their running English Summer Camp. This could be truly an ultimate experience of the students for interaction with tutors and course mates while learning. There are good reasons for ILAC having the privilege of receiving most of the awards like Best English School in North America (Lifetime Winner – LTM Superstar Award, Best University Pathway Program in Canada (Best Language School in Canada, Best Language School in Canada (Best Language School in Canada by Students) and some more.

In fact, this institution was recognized as the highest ranked language schools in Canada in the last year. They work in partnership with more than 50 universities and colleges in Canada, hold small size classes comprising of maximum 12 students, starting fresh classes every two weeks and voted as the topmost English language school in Canada.

University of Toronto English language program is another place of learning in world class standards and environment. Learning English in Toronto University is sure to make you fluent and have a good grip over the language for all academic requirements and career necessities. The students who intend to carry out studies in Canada have to hold IELTS or TOFEL certificates as an evidence of their proficiency in language. Those who do not hold a certificate are required to attend the language program.  The program is designed for writing well-structured academic papers, full knowledge of citation and referencing, and communication with accuracy and fluency after completion of the course.  Classes are available in different sections of days and timings.

Kaplan’s English school is another place to learn English in Toronto.  At Kaplan’s you will find a variety of courses to suite different requirements. Vocational English is a good example of learning and gaining fluency in the language during holidays while exploring the country. Intensive English Course is designed for fastest learning and gaining fluency in the language. Likewise, the institute holds a big range of English learning courses; a few are TOFEL EXAM Preparation, Internship, and Cambridge Exam preparation.

Pipiwai Hiking Trail

By far the most memorable experience from my Hana Hiking was the Pipiwai hiking trail. Very few tourists were along this trail and with each turn I was greeted by new, breathtaking and exciting scenery.

This four mile (round trip) trail began by leading me up the mountain, through trees and along a cliff until I came across a pristine waterfall. Taking a side path, I was able to stand atop this incredible tall waterfall’s flat rock top and look down into the depths of the plunging water below.

As I continued along the well tread Pipiwai path, I took in several other waterfalls and greenery. But the landscape of the trail quickly changed as I came to the next section of this trail, an area that seemed out of place, peaceful and almost eerie. Although I was in broad daylight, as I stepped into the trail’s dense bamboo forest, it almost felt like night fall had come. Walking along a boarded pathway for what seemed like miles, I stepped among these trees which tightly surrounded me and stood like giants watching me pass.

Once I stepped out of this unique bamboo forest, I faced a more mountainous path that was cut by a stream, large boulders and loose rocks. Treading carefully, I continued along the last quarter mile of the trail until I reached the end. It was here at the end of this incredible journey and trail that I came to a 400 foot Hawaiian waterfall called Waimoku Falls. I can honestly say that, I’ve never been so rewarded at the end of such a beautiful trail. Rather than just stand and adore the beauty of these falls, (which I did for about ten minutes,) I decided to walk down to the fall and stand beneath the pounding water. As the cooling mist of the fall reached my body, I knew I would never have a hike as wonderful as this again. The water rained down on me and there was no one coming along the trail… making the falls, the moment and the memory, completely mine.

Hiking through Hawaii

In my travels I have swam with dolphins (Honduras,) ridden elephants (Chiang Rai Thailand,) zip-lined through Mexican forests and hiked through the Rocky Mountains but I am yet to find an experience that rivals my hiking in Hawaii, especially the Pipiwai Trail on the Road to Hana.

About the author: Boyde McMakin is a travel extremist with PPL Motorhomes who loves being outdoors with his family and friends. He thoroughly enjoys traveling to places that inspire him and uplift his soul. Click here to view his blog.

1. Mountain Biking in the Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest community of Oakridge, Oregon, hosts several mountain biking events throughout the course of the summer. Some are all-inclusive events that provide campsites, meals, transportation to trails, guides, showers, entertainment and a nightly beer garden. You don’t have to have an advanced skill level to participate.

2. Visit Desired Destinations during the Off Season

If you’ve always wanted to visit a specific area or resort but have been discouraged from doing so because of large tourist crowds, consider visiting the area during the off-season. Prices on lodging, meals, and activities such as golf and spas will probably be less expensive during these times.

3. Volunteer in a Foreign Country

Many organizations exist that offer travelers opportunity to volunteer in a foreign country for the duration of their stay. This is a great option whether you want to stay for several months or just for one week. Opportunities can be tailored to meet your particular area of expertise.

4. Book an Un-Cruise

If you’re enthralled by the idea of spending your vacation on the water but are not interested in going on one of the gigantic cruise ships, you should check out the small cruise companies. With ships as small as 12-passenger vessels to larger ones that carry 60-70 people, un-cruises typically offer passengers extremely close views of nature in areas where the big boats can’t fit into.

5. Visit a Non-Tourist Town

Pick a community in a location that you’ve always been curious about that doesn’t cater to mass tourism, and go out to breakfast at the local diner and get to know the people of the area. You may not find fancy accommodations in these types of places, but you’ll come away with lasting memories and several new friends.

Author Bio

Lyndsi Decker is a freelance writer that is currently promoting golf bag shipping. When not blogging, she enjoys traveling, photography, and exploring the outdoors.

Here are just a couple of the best trails you can enjoy during your holiday to Las Vegas and some great places to visit in the city.

The Mary Jane Falls Trail

Just 45 miles north of the city centre, lies the Mary Jane Falls trail, a moderately strenuous hike with stunning areas of natural beauty and a waterfall that is worth every step you take!

This well travelled trail is perfect for beginners and avid hikers alike, although be prepared for strenuous parts including a two mile uphill assault, scaling 1,000 feet. As this trail is fairly well known do expect to bump into others along the way, so be cautious as some of the trail is extremely narrow.

Part way through your hike you will be able to view Kyle Canyon, a magnificent set of deep ridges and fabulous fauna – definitely a spot for taking some gorgeous photos. If you follow the winding trail through the canyons you will have the chance to visit caves and a stunning waterfall that is worth all the hiking!

The Gass Peak Hike

Gass Peak is the highest peak in the Las Vegas range, with an elevation of 6,943 feet* and is a physically demanding hike. Although anyone can hike this range, it is advisable to be aware that it does involve fairly demanding climbing and steep trails.

The  trail is well marked and if you don’t fancy tackling the whole hike then why not take it half way and enjoy spectacular views and local wildlife. If you do want to get to the summit then, once at the top, you will notice some spectacular views of the dessert wilderness to the north, and the south shows you just how spectacular the city looks!

On the way down you will have the chance to visit a local spring and enjoy soaking your sore feet, if you are lucky enough you may have the chance to see one of the native Longhorn sheep – don’t get too close though!

Hostel Cat – the place to lay your head

After all the adventure you will need a comfortable and fun place to rest and see the city in the evenings, Hostel Cat is perfectly situated just off the strip and is comfortable and reasonably priced.

The facilities include lockers, internet access, a common room and best of all, organised hikes, BBQ’s and casino nights. I would advise signing up for the evenings events at the hostel, but as it is in a prime Las Vegas location, why not spend an evening at Caesars Palace and enjoy some live dealer games and the fabulously decadent food; you have to explore the city to understand just how special it is!

Mauritius

A small scenic island off the coast of Africa is the getaway spot of Mauritius.  A growing international tourist spot Mauritius has much to offer to beside just sun and beaches to a weary winter traveler. Safaris, scuba diving, parasailing, dolphin dives and lion/cheetah walks are just a few of the unique opportunities for getaway activities. These experiences which cannot be had almost anywhere else In the world are just a small sample of activities you can take at this singular location. Where Mauritius is really starting to make its mark though is in cuisine. Cuisines from various traditions and of course the flavor of local palate create a truly unique take on foods from around the world. You may order a familiar snack but you will get something unlike you have ever had before not just from Mauritius as a whole but from each of the many restaurants and street vendors. If cold and winter has you needing a change of scenery there is no place better than Mauritius for all your senses!

Sydney

Live in the Northern Hemisphere? Is the snow, ice, and grey skies of the winter season getting you down? Find yourself wishing for warm sun, sands, sea in the middle of January? Have no fear! Sydney the capital and most populous city in Australia await you! Due to it being in the Southern Hemisphere of the world, while Europe and North America are firmly in winter’s grip Australia is in a warm sunny summer. Sydney is an open laid back style of city, a mix of cosmopolitan and a sun soaked harbor town with many places to go and things to do, to escape those winter blues.  A dinner boat tour of the harbor lit up at night, or the many clubs and dances in the city proper, or just a sightseeing tour featuring the world famous opera house Sydney in summer has something for everyone, and will make you forget those winter blues.

Miami

While most of the USA is dealing with ice, wind, and snow, Miami Florida is a beach and sun haven from heavy coats and thick ski boots. Miami has a lot to offer any winter escape partyer. You can soak up some Cuban and Latin culture in “Little Havana” districts of downtown. Head on over to the South Beach for a sample of Miami’s legendary nightlife; with a host of clubs to dance the nights away while the rest of the country slumbers in hibernation. During the day take a stroll down Ocean Drive’s many shops and malls and get a jump on spring and summer fashions or just grab something for the 80 degrees that are typical for the winter months in this city of eternal summer.

Bali

Winter holidays too snowy? Sydney not exotic enough to leave snow angels for? Miami not hot enough to abandon your fire side for? Then this winter travel down the Southern Hemisphere to Bali! When the Northern Hemisphere is winter wonderland, Bali is a summer party hotspot perfect for getaways from the snow. Bali has a booming tourist business, even after it took a hit in with terrorist bombings in 2002 and 2005. Bali would not be beaten though and bounced back to a safer and better party spot than it was previously by 2008. Recent years have seen a whole new level of activity for Bali even being film location for the movie adaptation of Eat Pray Love.  A wild night at the anything goes Bounty club or a cultural beach festival for the Full Moon. Bali is an exotic paradise for those seeking to get away from cold grey skies.

Mexico

Mexico is not a spot one usually thinks of when planning a winter getaway. However it is hard to turn down the beaches of Cancun, the jungles of the Yucatan or the clubs of Tijuana. While the temperature in Mexico can soar to the 90 or over 100 degrees, the winter months tend to be a must more tolerable 85 degrees on average.  While some resorts will be closed others remain open and usually at a reduced cost. The rich cultural heritage of Mexico will give you celebrations unlike almost anywhere else.