Lotion

Ok this is a no brainer but sun tan lotion is the most important thing you need to bring. You should also bring a sun block as well just in case the sun feels really strong when you are there. You should apply 30 minutes prior to sitting in the sun and then reapply as necessary. Some “experts” say that reapplying doesn't help, and I say bull shi-tak-e. I apply anyway and I feel it does help me.

Chair/Blanket

Sure you could sit on the sand but you might drag more into your car then what is necessary. Bring a chair or blanket with you to so you have something comfy to sit on.

Towel

If you decide to take the plunge into the water you will need to dry off and no better way than a towel. I guess you could stand there and let the sun dry you off, but then you might get everything around wet.

Radio

A radio is good or something that you can listen to music to. I love sitting in the chair on a nice hot afternoon watching the waves crash along the beach while listening to some Jimmy Buffet.

Water

Nothing will dehydrate you faster then sitting in the sun baking away. If the beach you go to allows it carry on a small cooler filled with ice and water bottles. Keep yourself hydrated, it is important for you health.

Books

Actually not just a book but something to read. Sitting on the beach is a great time to relax and nothing is more relaxing than catching up on some reading. Bring a book with you or a magazine, it will definitely make your day trip a lot more fun.

Well there you have it. Here are my must haves when I go to the beach. Sure I bring other things with me but none are as important as these.

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park

These sanctuaries jointly form the largest contiguous wildlife protected area in the state covering 240 square km.The dense vegetation provides ample cover to wildlife animals like the magnificent gaur, deer, wildboar and many more.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

One of the most popular sanctuaries is the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. Though small in size, it boasts of a mini zoo, deer safari park, botanical garden and even eco-tourism cottages.Bondla is a paradise for the lovers of eco-tourism. Spend late evenings and nights here for an unforgettable experience. You will feel exhilaration and an uplifting of the spirits. The region is covered with moist deciduous forests with evergreens and canes alongside. Besides the state animal Gaur, the frequently sighted are the panther, leopard, deer, porcupine, ant eater and many other animals.

Cortigao Wildlife Sanctuary

Cortigao Wildlife Sanctuary is representative of the eco-system in the Western Ghats region. Some of the tallest trees in the sanctuaries are found here going up to 30 metres.Nearly 200 species of birds have made their home here and they include the Pied Hornbill, Golden Backed Woodpecker and the Great Indian Woodpecker.

Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a treat for all bird -lovers. Located along the river Mandovi it has a dense vegetation of 14 different species of mangoes. During the winter months between November and January migratory birds flock in thousands to feed on the banks of the river at the sanctuary. It is a delight to watch and observe them in their full regalia. Watch towers there provide a truly bird's view of the region in full bloom. A boat ride in the backwaters in the early misty morning can create magic. This is when man is at peace with nature.

There is so much more to explore and discover in wildlife Goa. One can spend the rest of one's life doing just that and still be amazed at the constantly emerging new findings and excitement levels.

Arran is a small island, 20 miles long and 56 miles round, located off the south-west coast of Scotland.

Ferries run from the Scottish mainland to the Isle of Arran. Most people reach the island via Ardrossan which has a direct rail service from Glasgow.

The history of Arran is of strong interest to local Archeologists, tourists, and residents.

The first people on Arran to leave visible signs of their life and times here were the Neolithic people, who lived on the island in the period between 4,500BC and 2,000BC. They were farmers, and traces of their field systems have been found on Arran. However, they have left their most distinct legacy on Arran in the form of stone circles, standing stones and cairns. We do not know what these monuments were used for, but it is safe to assume that they had some kind of ceremonial function.

Machrie moor standing stones is a small ancient circle protected by a stone wall. Continue on the footpath and you will reach the main site, three-quarters of a mile across the fields.

Robert Pollock has produced an excellent guide with diagrams which details these and other circles on this site. Two of the circles have recently been excavated, and the amount of peat growth over the original prehistoric ground surface can be seen as a tidemark on the stones. Indeed one of the circles had completely disappeared under the peat.

Druid Stone is likely to be a Neolithic or Bronze age stone, despite its local association with the Iron Age priesthood. A druid was a member of the priestly and learned class in the ancient Celtic societies of Western Europe, Britain and Ireland.

Ruins of Lochranza Castle are located north of Brodick.

It features the striking ruins of a 14th century castle, a former hunting lodge of the Scottish Kings.

It has been claimed that Lochranza Castle has literary connections, being used as the basis for the castle in the Tintin adventure "The Black Island".

Brodick Castle is made up of red sandstone and it lies at the foot of Goatfell Mountain 1.5 miles out of Brodick; the main port on the Isle of Arran off the west coast of Scotland.

The name Brodick comes from the Norse words, meaning 'broad bay'. Arran means 'peaked island' in Gaelic.

It's a fascinating Island filled with mysteries and folklore. Visit now before the times destroy it.

image source

Boracay Island is paradise Philippines located off the northwest corner of the island of Panay, and belongs to the Western Visayas island-group, or Region 6, of the Philippines. The island is approximately seven kilometers long, dog-bone shaped with the narrowest spot being less than one kilometer wide, and has a total land area of 10.32 square kilometers.
South-facing Cagban Beach is located across a small strait from the jetty port at Caticlan on Panay island, and the Cagban jetty port serves as Boracay's main entry and exit point during most of the year. When wind and sea conditions dictate, east-facing Tambisaan Beach serves as an alternative entry and exit point.

Palawan, Philippines

image source

When Chinese explorer Chao Ju-Kua stumbled upon Palawan in 1225, he dubbed the 270-mile-long (435-kilometer-long) island the "land of beautiful harbors" where "lofty ridges and cliffs rise as steeply as the walls of a house." Today, one of these beautiful harbors-Bacuit Bay-is home to El Nido Resort's Lagen lodge, an environmentally friendly property situated on a sculpted island inside the bay. The resort's 18 cottages rest on stilts right next to El Nido's marine sanctuary, where towering limestone cliffs jut from the shimmering surface and unspoiled coral reefs lie just below it. In a single day, guests can scuba dive, kayak, rock climb, and trek-returning just in time to witness a Gauguin-inspired sunset from their cottage's private balcony. Rather take it easy? Just spend your day relaxing on the beach. You certainly won't miss the sunset that way.

The Big Island of Hawaii

image source

Ever dream of the perfect Hawaiian Island vacation? The Big Island of Hawaii is a tropical paradise that offers hundreds of miles of unique coastline, volcanic black, green gemstone and powdery white beaches, incredible Kona Coast oceanfront resorts, lush jungles, obsidian lava fields, humpback whales wintering and a multitude of fun Hawaiian adventures…from thrills to true bliss.

Sydney, Australia

image source

Sydney is Australia's largest city with a population of almost 4 million, and is the primary port of entry for international visitors. Most recently renowned as host city of the 2000 Olympic Games, Sydney is also the business and tourism hub of the nation, and is increasingly a major centre within the Asia-Pacific region. Blessed with a wonderful setting on Sydney Harbor, and a benign climate, Sydney is a great tourist's city. Although not the first point at which Europeans landed in Australia, it was the first permanent European settlement, and is Australia's oldest established city.

Today, Sydney is recognized as one of the "lifestyle" capitols of the world; it's melting pot of cultures has given the city a multitude of international restaurants and eateries to choose from; the compatible all year round warm weather; the spectacular harbor views, makes Sydney the ideal city for outdoor bars and cafes which can be found all over the city; this could also be the reason for the friendly outgoing and open attitude of "Sydneysiders" - instantly recognizable by visitors.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

image source

Myrtle Beach might be the most desirable vacation spot on the entire East Coast. Located at the center of the Grand Strand, a 60-mile stretch of dreamy beaches that attracts millions of tourists every year, Myrtle Beach is the largest resort community in that famed stretch and home to activities that can satisfy any vacation desire. Between its amazing beaches, a wide range of recreational possibilities and primo shopping opportunities, this primary vacation hub on the shores of the South Atlantic is one of the top stretches of oceanfront the country has to offer.

Phan Thiet, Vietnam

image source

Vietnam's Most Beautiful Beach and Bay City. The capital of Khanh Hoa Province, Nha Trang has a full-time population that stands at about 200,000 people, but it far exceeds that with the heavy local and international tourist influx, especially in the summer months. While it's not a particularly charming town, its surf isn't bad and the beach is a breathtaking setting, with views of the more than 20 surrounding islands. There are a few very nice places to stay, and dining is about good fresh seafood.

Phuket, Thailand

image source

Thailand is the real vacation destination everything is there for you to have a good time. Just choose the right Thailand vacation package or do appropriate Thailand vacation deal and a good time is almost for sure. This can be a Thailand beach vacation, maybe in Phuket with a boat vacation on the sea around or a vibrant nightlife vacation. A Chiang Mai vacation or Kanchanaburi vacation could easily be turned into a adventure vacation with challenging river rafting, hiking and trekking in the mountain jungle. Or maybe Thailand culture tour vacation to Sukhothai, Ayutthaya Thailand and plenty of other places, there plenty of Thailand attractions. A very attractive vacation deal in Thailand is scuba vacation in the Andaman Sea and in the gulf of Thailand.

1. Sun

    It's not that I don't get much sun where I live. In fact, we get a lot of sun here. But when you go on a beach vacation, you don't get too bothered when the sun gets too hot. You enjoy it. Over here, when the sun gets too hot, we complain that we perspire profusely since we have things to do and places to go.

2. Sea

   What is it about the sea that has a calming effect? I could just sit at the beach and watch the wide expanse ahead of me. The waves makes you feel like you are being swept away into paradise. You forget about all the stresses at work and simply enjoy the water lapping at your feet as you focus your vision into the horizon.

3. Sand

   I love stepping into soft white sand. Walking on a sandy beach is my favorite. Whenever we go on a beach vacation, we will walk the length of the beach from one end to the other. It can be tiring because your feet has to walk on uneven surface as you plunge into the soft sand at every step. But I still love it. I can't wait to make sandcastles with my daughter. I think she'll love it too.

4. Sky

   Why is it that the sky is so blue whenever we are on a beach vacation? Why is the sky not so blue where I live? I have always wondered about that. Is it only me who thinks that way? It's just so different. At the beach, there doesn't seem to be a single cloud in the sky and you could really enjoy the clear blue sky. Unlike where I live, the sky is often filled with clouds, sometimes threatening to rain.

5. Seagulls

   Seagulls are fascinating creatures to look at. They will fly high and suddenly swoop down into the water and catch a fish in its beak. How do they do that? It's amazing.

6. Sunbathe

   I love to show off my tanned skin after a beach vacation. It helps put a little color into my fair skin. I don't like to just lie around sunbathing, I like to do other things in the sun such as read a book, eat an ice-cream or swim. Seeing my sunburnt cheeks at the end of the day gives me great satisfaction.

7. Swim

   I'm not a good swimmer. So, normally if I'm at the beach, I will just play in the water, feed the fishes with bread or try to look for my husband who has dived into the water and has not surfaced for awhile.

8. Sunrise and Sunsets

   Why do I get so excited to wake up early in the morning to catch the first glimpse of the sun as it rises? But I don't feel that strong urge when I'm at home. And at the end of the day at the beach, watching the sun slowly disappear in the horizon winds down the beautiful day.

9. Seafood

   Another thing I must have whenever I'm at the beach is the seafood. It's nothing like having great barbecued crabs, prawns and fish at the beach. Yummy!

10. Solitude

    But the great thing about the beach is the feeling of solitude, even if you're with someone you love. You just feel at one with God's greatest gift of nature. Your mind breaks free and you feel calmer and more relaxed. That's why I love the beach so much.

Enjoy golden-sand beaches, lush rainforests, impressive volcanoes, shimmering waterfalls and more. The options are endless on sunny Maui.

WHY SHOULD I GO?

There's a reason honeymooners flock to Maui in droves each year: It's one of the most blissful places on earth. Flourishing greenery, sun-kissed beaches and blue waters set the stage for romance. Add to that an exotic culture, tropical drinks and the soft strumming of a Hawaiian ukulele and you've got a recipe for couples' paradise. Not planning a romantic gateway? Maui offers loads of activities for families and adventurous travelers alike. All that and you don't even need a passport.

WHERE SHOULD I STAY?

World-class hotels abound throughout the island, but the cream of the crop is the Ritz-Carlton in Kapalua. From the moment you arrive and are given a floral lei and a smile, you receive VIP treatment. Staff members go out of their way to make sure each guest feels welcome. Not only will you be impressed by the hotel's service, you will also be dazzled by its setting. The 548-room hotel is located on the northwest coast of the island and is surrounded by a championship golf course and a scenic pineapple plantation. The resort, which was built next to a Hawaiian burial ground back to the year 850, also overlooks a pristine beach and the Pacific Ocean. The resulting environment is a wonderful mixture of modern luxury, spiritual history and natural beauty. What's more, the Ritz boasts a tri-level pool, six tennis courts, a basketball court, walking trails, a state-of-the-art fitness center with exercise classes, a high-end spa and several outstanding restaurants. If you are on your honeymoon the advantage of the hotel's honeymoon packages, which include amenities like champagne and strawberries in your room, rose petals on your bed and a personal concierge. If you're traveling with your children, sign up for the Ritz kids program, which consists of full - or half-day recreation and education activities. If you are interested in learning more about Hawaii's early Polynesian inhabitants, talk to the Ritz's cultural advisor who conducts historical discussions and tours. There is something for everyone at this premier hotel.

WHAT ARE THE BEST ACTIVITIES?

There are enough outdoor activities in Maui to occupy you for several vacations, so you won't want for things to do. You could go on a rainforest hike complete with a waterfall swim with Latatudes "N Adatudes/Maui Eco-Adventures. This tour company offers hikes, kayak trips, bike tours and helicopter rides with knowledgeable guides and picnic lunches. One of their most popular excursions is a hike into the crater of Haleakala, the world"s largest dormant volcano crater.

For those who care to brave the waves, take a surf lesson at the Island Style Surf School in Ka'anapali. The instructors coach you on everything from paddling out to the waves to getting - and staying - up on your board. If you prefer snorkeling, go on a catamaran cruise along Maui's coastline with Kapalua Kai, which stops at prime snorkeling spots (scuba diving is also available). If you go on an excursion between December and April, you may see humpback whales.

Interested in sightseeing on your own? Drive along the world-famous Hana coast and take in the gorgeous state parks, waterfalls and beaches. Then, when you want to relax, head to the Boutique Spa at the Ritz for some pampering. Indulge in one of many treatments, such as a green-tea body wrap, a papaya-pineapple scrub or an aromatherapy massage - which is available outdoors in a cozy hut that is enclosed enough to afford privacy yet open enough to let in the gentle breeze.

WHERE I SHOULD EAT?

No trip to Hawaii would be complete without a true Hawaiian lu'au. Try out the Old Lahaina Lu'au, known as Maui's best and most authentic. The evening begins with a feast of traditional Hawaiian fare, which includes fish, roasted pork and taro (a root plant that is a staple of the Hawaiian diet). Then, as you sip Mai Tais and watch the sun set, enjoy an unforgettable musical hula performance.

For a fabulous meal overlooking the water, head to The Banyan Tree at the Ritz. All creations are elegantly presented and delicious. The Ritz also has a top sushi bar, Kai, which serves only ocean's freshest catches. Mama's Fish House is another popular spot. This converted beach house with Polynesian décor is located in a coconut grove on a secluded white-sand beach. The menu includes fish, crab cakes, lamb chops, Polynesian lobster soup and organic vegetables.

HOW DO I GET THERE?

Most major airlines, including Delta, United and American, fly nonstop out of Los Angeles. There are also several flights from New York with one stopover.

Located at the Heart of the Mediterranean, Malta is one of this Earths most precious Jewels. Situated just south of Sicily (Italy's sister island) Malta offers unimaginable views that no words could possibly describe. This pretty little island is home to around 350,000 people. The Main Language spoke in Malta is Maltese, but a lot of the Maltese people have a strong grasp and understanding of English and Italian as these are the 2 main languages that Maltese is based upon.

With 7,000 years of history, the Maltese Islands are steeped in culture and heritage. The Islands went through a golden Neolithic period, the remains of which are the mysterious megalithic temples dedicated to the goddess of fertility. Later on, the Phoenicians, the Carthaginians, the Romans and the Byzantines, all left their traces on the Islands.

One of the most amazing temples that I can write about whilst living in Malta is the Hypogeum, an underground temple, with the same layout as the megalithic temples. All of these temples are open for public viewing. Charges for these museums cost little to nothing. But booking with a travel operator might be a good idea as entrance to these temples is always difficult due to high demands with customers, who all book months in advance to visit these stunning temples.

Christianity was brought to Malta by St. Paul. He was on his way to Rome when his boat shipwrecked in Malta. These days St Paul is seen as one of Malta's Patron Saints, with the 10th of February being a bank holiday in order celebrate this Saints work on the island. Nowadays traditional boat trips can be taken from Buggibba, one of Malta's more lively towns taking you to the actually spot where St Paul's Boat shipwrecked, showing you a monument of the Saint, then taking you on a Tour of local water caves hidden around the island with amazing corals which can be seen through the crystal clear waters. Many of these tours continue into Gozo and Comino-Malta's sister islands.(more about those in Part 2)

Many of Malta's towns and villages were built to be protected from enemies in battles throughout the Islands history. They were built up thanks to the nights of St John. Building fortresses and massive walls around many of the outer cities to protect them from attack. These protective barriers were so strong that they helped in protecting Malta in the World War 2. Many areas of Malta have been so well conserved. All of these pieces that build up Malta are still in a good state.

Many Cathedrals were also built in this time. All of these having an amazing history behind them. For example the Mosta Dome. It's as the 4rd Biggest Dome in Europe. During mass in World War 2, enemies bombed through the ceiling of the church. This bomb miraculously never went off. And till this present day, the actual bomb that was dropped on the church is visited by thousands of tourists every year. Entry into all churches and Cathedrals is Free.

The World's Largest Cannon is Found in Malta, and amazingly is still fired once a year, sending vibrations around the country. The massive 100-ton gun used as a coastal battery, was designed to become the world's largest cannon.

The gun, still on show at Fort Rinella, has a barrel almost 10-metres long and could fire a one-ton shell about three miles. Animated tours of the Fort, and the cannon itself happen daily by Maltese heritage volunteers, dressed as Victorian soldiers. Entrance to this Fort is again little to nothing.

This is a brief insight into Maltas history. The document would continue going on forever. In following parts I will be talking about Malta's Entertainment, Shopping, Traditions and Clubbing.

Thank You.

School children of Saint Thomas will memorize their capital city as Morant Bay and agriculture and manufacturing as their foremost industries. Some major cities are Golden Grove, Bath, Sea forth, and Port Morant. Yallas is a town that will cause US readers to wonder if the city of Dallas in Texas was derived from Yallas. According to size, Saint Thomas is the ninth largest.

Christopher Columbus landed on Jamaica in 1494, two years after "discovering" America. Many people find it difficult to think of it as a discovery since the indigen population had been there for forty thousand years as humans evolved. On the island lived a large number of Tainos/Arawaks. Cattle were introduced to Jamaica by the Spaniards. In Morant Bay and Yallahs in this parish. In 1655 with the British capture not only did the British take over but they invited residents from other colonies to join them. Unfortunately two thirds of the immigrants came down with illness (fever of some type) and died. The group included the Governor of Nevis and his family.

Next came the French invasion. That was in 1674. Admiral Du Casse captured many slaves from the British. The word settler sounds like it would describe a group of good people. The word invaders does not carry the same connotation. In either case it seems to be the indigen population that suffers.

The Morant Bay Rebellion is a fascinating part of Jamaica's history. In 1865 the ex-slaves were going through a period of severely unfair situations. When Paul Bogle led a large group of farmers to ask the Governor to grant land tenure in a fair way it ended up starting a civil war. At one point when the authorities (they had already been refused help from Governor Eyre in Spanish Town) tried to repel them, the protesters threw stones at them. The volunteers responded by shooting into the group. Seven of the protestors ended up dead. Their retaliation was to return later and burn down the Courthouse. The unfortunate citizens trapped inside tried to escape but were shot by the rioting crowd.

George William Gordon, one of the British rulers attempted to help the farmers and workers. No good deed goes unpunished. His fellow Brits took him out and hung him. The next day they also hung Paul Bogle. Before this entire rebellion was ended the British had killed more than 430 people. It was a sad period in the history of Jamaica's Parish of Saint Thomas.

It wasn't until 1969 that Paul Bogle was named an official National Hero. One of the others honored with the title was George William Gordon who had tried to do what he considered the right thing.

As for the terrain it is mostly mountainous with the highest point being 4,000 feet above sea level. Although Jamaica is considered to be a tropical island the climate can vary in most parishes including this one. There are underground rivers in this area. Above ground are the Rio Nuevo, the Wag Water and the White River. The land close to these rivers tends to be swampland.

Probably due to the fact that it is one of the smallest and poorest parishes on Jamaica, one would guess that tourism was not the primary source of jobs. Agricultural production seems to be decreasing although bananas and breadfruit among the crops grown are popular food. On the positive side are the good schools that it is known for. Some of the graduates hold important positions in banks and other businesses.

Located in Middlesex (county of) it had a population of 113,000 as of 2001. The land area covers 610 square kilometers. The crops of coffee and citrus, cocoa to coconuts are still produced in addition to sugar cane of course. The people also raise livestock. The fact is though, agriculture is on the decline. There has been talk of developing the land for parcels of housing and other buildings. Being inland makes the land less valuable as a resource. Although I'm sure that any citizens in all of Jamaica can get to the shoreline to enjoy the ocean though.

Some business ideas for Jamaica's citizens to explore might be designing swim suits as well as other light clothing. Since livestock is flourishing they could open a livery stable or two for horseback riding. Being inland they might want to consider raising and training the horses to supply stables closer to the ocean and therefore more profitable due to the tourist trade. Another thing to think about might be building boats of all sizes. There must be a need for many boats of all types. Any luxury items and souvenirs to sell to the many visitors might be lucrative. It is a fact that over one hundred thousand people from all over the world flock to Jamaica each year. The beauty of the land, the many activities and the friendly people who make their trip pleasant are all influencing visitors to return year after year.

Among visitors who can afford the luxury, they might fly their wedding attendants and all the guests to Jamaica for a grand celebration. This is usually movie stars, oil billionaires and others with financial advantage. The hotels cater wonderful weddings on the beach with an outdoor or indoor reception afterwards. With the trend among movie stars being multiple marriages, Jamaica will be busy catering possibly three or four weddings for each during their lifetime.