Being from central California, I might be forgiven for feeling some trepidation when I flew from United States to live in Germany as my impression was of a dark and dreary land. I suspect it’s natural for one to assume that any place on the same general latitude of Winnipeg Canada was certainly bound to yield less than the balmy 110 degree summers of my erstwhile mountain home. Landing In Frankfurt and traveling south on the autobahn at significantly higher rates of speed than I was used to, deposited me in a small town by the name of Schwetzingen. By way of landmarks, Schwetzingen is approximately ten miles west of Heidelberg and ten miles south of Mannheim in south central Germany.
Having arrived in the spring, I was pleasantly surprised at the temperate climate and lush foliage. I particularly enjoyed the intermingling of fields and cities that give a feeling of cohabitation between city dwellers and the countryside (although it’s a bit less attractive when the farmers are spreading liquid manure). It’s very different in that regard than the urban sprawl that we experience in America wherein the farmers are priced out of an area and the mini-malls and subdivisions move in.
After getting somewhat acclimated to my accommodations at the edge of town and procuring some German cash called Deutsche marks I walked into town and proceeded to get to know the place. As an amateur history buff I was really enjoying the architecture, particularly the Schloss (palace) downtown. The city seems to be a suburb of the larger towns around it and boast a mellow feeling. Not at all fluent in speaking German I decided to take a chance and ventured into a restaurant where I was warmly greeted, seated and given a menu (in German of course). After perusing it for a bit I decide that schweineschnitzel means something like a pork chop so I confidently indicate to the waitress that I would like a jagerschnitzel, with water and I was quite relieved to see that “beer” was pronounced pretty much the same. Lo and behold, the woman came out with a pork chop smothered in my nemesis the dreaded mushroom and some foul black liquid in a glass that seemed almost to be a solid, potentially requiring me to chew it. Apparently, "Alt" beer is not unlike a Guinness stout. I graciously ate everything on the plate sans the ‘shrooms and with much gestulation complimented them on the meal and left a tip roughly the size of the meal cost as additional assurance that it was more than satisfactory. Mental note to self: No Jagerschnitzel and order an Alt when you’ve got some time to spend. I eventually came to prefer that German beer over most others however.
Further exploration in this town yielded an Italian restaurant with a lasagna served still boiling from the oven that I became addicted to. And just east of town is the Bellamar swimming complex that I came to reside at as my second home. This is a family friendly swimming complex that includes indoor/outdoor temperature controlled pools, sauna, hot tubs, sun lamps, a restaurant as well as an adjoining Olympic sized pool and park for the summer. What’s not to love? Swimming in the steamy outdoor pool under the crisp winter night’s sky with snow falling all around is something that stays with you. Just a note, as with many places in Europe, the sauna is clothing optional.
This area of Germany is very foot traffic friendly so I rode my bike along paths through fields and surrounding towns to Heidelberg to explore this scenic town nestled at the foot of the mountains. This towns most prominent landmark is the Castle that was used both as a fortress and palace located on the hill overlooking the Neckar river. As you pass through town approaching the hills you will find a street that is blocked to automotive traffic called the Hauptstrasse (hoff-straus-a) that features a plethora of stores and restaurants. At the eastern end there is a Mecca for a homesick American, a McDonalds! And even better, they serve beer! So, after an arduous ride into town one can score some fast food and a six pack of beer for a day on the northern grassy banks of the Neckar river with the picturesque view of the town and castle directly in front. Shirts seem to be optional in the park here as well.
All in all I found the German people pleasant and receptive, particularly when I made efforts to converse with them in their own language.
Monday, August 6, 2007
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Swimming safety
In the course of a year, millions of Americans head for warm climates with waterfront real estate such as islands and beaches. Unfortunately, a leading cause of death for visitors in oceanfront destinations is drowning so I want to address two major areas of water safety.
Drinking:
When on vacation it’s not uncommon for travelers to consume alcoholic beverages and this can become a problem as warm weather and heat can increase the effects of alcohol, contributing to dehydration and increased fatigue during high-intensity exercise. Some physical effects of ingesting alcohol are weakening of the pumping force of the heart, decreased coordination, slowed reaction time, muscle relaxation, lack of behavioral inhibitions and impaired judgment which when lounging on a beach, might prove perfectly acceptable. However should the intrepid inebriated individual decide to participate in physical activities such as swimming after tossing down a few umbrella decorated drinks the risk of injury or death can be dramatically increased.
Rip Currents:
A rip current is a strong flow of water returning seaward from the shore. It is often called a riptide, rip current, a rip, or an undertow. Rip currents can be dangerous for both swimmers and waders by dragging one away from the beach and causing exhaustion when the swimmer fights the current. They occur most often when the tide is low and there are strong onshore winds with rough surf. Increased wind blowing shoreward combined with the pressure of incoming water pressure push more water toward the shore and create a situation wherein the returning water has to find an alternate means to flow back into the sea. Typically, this water will flow parallel to the shore until it finds an easier route away from the shore either through lessened incoming water pressure or a physical feature on the beach that lends itself to facilitating outflow such as a pier, jetty or a split in a barrier sandbar or reef. This strong outflow is usually not terribly wide but is powerful at the surface and will prevent incoming swells and waves from being too pronounced, actually creating a deceptively inviting area of calm water for swimmers.
Obviously, it is advisable to look for the existence of a rip current before heading into the water. Some indicators to look for on the beach prior to entering the water are wave actions inconsistent with the surrounding area such as unusually calm waters, discoloration caused by the strong outgoing current carrying excess debris and soil and waves that don’t wash as far up on the shore as the surrounding area. If you are caught in a riptide, DO NOT PANIC. Understanding that they are generally narrow in width and are simply an outgoing current, float do not struggle. Let the riptide carry you out beyond the breakers and it will dissipate. If you prefer, swim parallel to the beach not directly toward shore. In this way you will cross the current and are less likely to exhaust yourself.
Interestingly, rip currents are used by surfers and lifeguards as they ride the outgoing current to carry them away from shore faster than they would normally be able go to by paddling through the waves.
That said, I'm all for having a great time at the beach, but I suggest keeping your wits about you.
Happy traveling friends!
Drinking:
When on vacation it’s not uncommon for travelers to consume alcoholic beverages and this can become a problem as warm weather and heat can increase the effects of alcohol, contributing to dehydration and increased fatigue during high-intensity exercise. Some physical effects of ingesting alcohol are weakening of the pumping force of the heart, decreased coordination, slowed reaction time, muscle relaxation, lack of behavioral inhibitions and impaired judgment which when lounging on a beach, might prove perfectly acceptable. However should the intrepid inebriated individual decide to participate in physical activities such as swimming after tossing down a few umbrella decorated drinks the risk of injury or death can be dramatically increased.
Rip Currents:
A rip current is a strong flow of water returning seaward from the shore. It is often called a riptide, rip current, a rip, or an undertow. Rip currents can be dangerous for both swimmers and waders by dragging one away from the beach and causing exhaustion when the swimmer fights the current. They occur most often when the tide is low and there are strong onshore winds with rough surf. Increased wind blowing shoreward combined with the pressure of incoming water pressure push more water toward the shore and create a situation wherein the returning water has to find an alternate means to flow back into the sea. Typically, this water will flow parallel to the shore until it finds an easier route away from the shore either through lessened incoming water pressure or a physical feature on the beach that lends itself to facilitating outflow such as a pier, jetty or a split in a barrier sandbar or reef. This strong outflow is usually not terribly wide but is powerful at the surface and will prevent incoming swells and waves from being too pronounced, actually creating a deceptively inviting area of calm water for swimmers.
Obviously, it is advisable to look for the existence of a rip current before heading into the water. Some indicators to look for on the beach prior to entering the water are wave actions inconsistent with the surrounding area such as unusually calm waters, discoloration caused by the strong outgoing current carrying excess debris and soil and waves that don’t wash as far up on the shore as the surrounding area. If you are caught in a riptide, DO NOT PANIC. Understanding that they are generally narrow in width and are simply an outgoing current, float do not struggle. Let the riptide carry you out beyond the breakers and it will dissipate. If you prefer, swim parallel to the beach not directly toward shore. In this way you will cross the current and are less likely to exhaust yourself.
Interestingly, rip currents are used by surfers and lifeguards as they ride the outgoing current to carry them away from shore faster than they would normally be able go to by paddling through the waves.
That said, I'm all for having a great time at the beach, but I suggest keeping your wits about you.
Happy traveling friends!
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Anegada in the British Virgin Islands
Perched at the northern reaches of the Virgin Islands chain, Anegada is the northeastern most and the one of the largest in land area of the British Virgin Islands and could easily be called an overgrown sandbar. Unlike the rest of the British Virgin Islands volcanic geologic structure however, it’s actually a coral and limestone outcropping. At most 28 feet above the water it’s not a terribly exciting destination for lets say, a mountain climber. But for sailors, beachgoers and those seeking a little peace and quite it’s just the ticket.
With a point southeast of Loblolly Bay as the central northernmost point, the Island arcs gently northwest and southwest respectively and is protected from the Atlantic surf by the Horseshoe reef surf just offshore that has proven so deadly to hundreds of seafaring vessels. Due to it’s prominence of position to the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, Anegada has experienced roughly 37 hurricanes and tropical storms in the last 100 years which may explain more than a few of the wrecks that abound along the reef. One of the most lucrative pastimes of the islands inhabitants in the previous centuries was liberating the wrecks of their contents whenever possible.
The swirling tides and waters of the assailing Atlantic Ocean have deposited material to the south and west of the islands providing shallows and flats for snorkeling fun as well as fishing for the elusive Permit and Bonefish. For the reef’s protection, boats cannot anchor on the reef but snorkeling and diving opportunities abound nonetheless. It’s natural to assume that there’s not much to do here and that’s exactly the point. This is the place to go that epitomizes the phrase “get away from it all” because that’s exactly what you will be doing when you sink your feet into the white sands of Loblolly Bay or Cow Wreck beach and spend the day enjoying peaceful solitude. The population here is around 200 plus permanent residents but can swell to a whopping 500 or so during the high season as intrepid adventurers travel from the neighboring islands for a day of exploration.
The British Virgin Islands has limited development on the island and has established a designated bird sanctuary which houses among the ponds, mudflats and mangrove swamps, a flamingo colony as well as myriad’s of other bird species including Herons,Terns, Ospreys and numerous other seagoing types of birds. Anegada also host thousands of wild Cattle, Goats and Donkeys that are readily seen by hikers around the isle. Getting here is by ferry, private boat or prop plane from Tortola as there are no direct flights from the United States or Europe proper but it’s a relatively inexpensive connection and well worth it. While here you can rent a jeep to explore the island and to get around or simply use a taxi if you’re here for a limited time or don’t expect to do much traveling.
You can view this destination here: http://www.villasmajestic.com/viewdest-Anegada.htm
With a point southeast of Loblolly Bay as the central northernmost point, the Island arcs gently northwest and southwest respectively and is protected from the Atlantic surf by the Horseshoe reef surf just offshore that has proven so deadly to hundreds of seafaring vessels. Due to it’s prominence of position to the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, Anegada has experienced roughly 37 hurricanes and tropical storms in the last 100 years which may explain more than a few of the wrecks that abound along the reef. One of the most lucrative pastimes of the islands inhabitants in the previous centuries was liberating the wrecks of their contents whenever possible.
The swirling tides and waters of the assailing Atlantic Ocean have deposited material to the south and west of the islands providing shallows and flats for snorkeling fun as well as fishing for the elusive Permit and Bonefish. For the reef’s protection, boats cannot anchor on the reef but snorkeling and diving opportunities abound nonetheless. It’s natural to assume that there’s not much to do here and that’s exactly the point. This is the place to go that epitomizes the phrase “get away from it all” because that’s exactly what you will be doing when you sink your feet into the white sands of Loblolly Bay or Cow Wreck beach and spend the day enjoying peaceful solitude. The population here is around 200 plus permanent residents but can swell to a whopping 500 or so during the high season as intrepid adventurers travel from the neighboring islands for a day of exploration.
The British Virgin Islands has limited development on the island and has established a designated bird sanctuary which houses among the ponds, mudflats and mangrove swamps, a flamingo colony as well as myriad’s of other bird species including Herons,Terns, Ospreys and numerous other seagoing types of birds. Anegada also host thousands of wild Cattle, Goats and Donkeys that are readily seen by hikers around the isle. Getting here is by ferry, private boat or prop plane from Tortola as there are no direct flights from the United States or Europe proper but it’s a relatively inexpensive connection and well worth it. While here you can rent a jeep to explore the island and to get around or simply use a taxi if you’re here for a limited time or don’t expect to do much traveling.
You can view this destination here: http://www.villasmajestic.com/viewdest-Anegada.htm
Friday, May 11, 2007
Virgin Gorda introduction
Virgin Gorda is part of the British Virgin Islands in the British West Indies, lying about 60 miles east of Puerto Rico. There are about 60 islands in the BVI, many of them uninhabited. As the third largest island in the BVI, Virgin Gorda has around eight square miles of land area. It’s 10 miles long by about 2 miles wide with around 1,400 permanent residents and is 26 miles east of St Thomas.
On his second trip to the Caribbean Christopher Columbus named the island group after Saint Ursula and her followers, He named Virgin Gorda (Fat Virgin) due to it’s profile on the horizon with Gorda Peak at 1,370 feet, appearing like a robust reclining woman. The Islands were initially populated by the Dutch and later the English Empire as a sugar cane plantation colony. After the demise of the plantation economy, the island languished until the 1960’s when tourism was introduced to the greater BVI as spillover from the US Virgin Islands tourism industry. Virgin Gorda can now boast that it is one of the BVI’s top family friendly vacation destinations. Not overly developed, this diminutive island is a serene place to relax and enjoy the abundant natural environment.
A great majority of the vacationers go to the Caribbean for the beaches, and on Virgin Gorda, arguably the best beach to be found is at The Baths. Here you find giant boulders that were once liquid deposits of magma and due to the erosion of surrounding earth are now stacked in ways to create grottos and caves providing endless entertainment for beachgoers. Some of the other beaches on Virgin Gorda are Devil's Bay National Park that is about a twenty minute walk from The Baths and is pleasantly secluded. Spring Bay, like The Baths, has large boulders scattered about and a very nice beach called The Crawl, that is welcoming to families and children due to it’s placidity. Not far from Spring bay is Trunk Bay that has a great beach facing the West that is accessible by boat or via a path from Spring Bay. Savannah Bay provides a sandy beach north of the yacht harbor and of course, not to be neglected is Mahoe Bay with a curving beach and beautiful blue water.
The BVI is renowned for excellent sailing conditions as well as dive sites that range from 15 to 80 feet. Many areas have no appreciable current and are ideal for photographers. This area of the Caribbean doesn’t have any extreme drop off’s but it does have plenty of coral gardens and topographical variation including canyons, tunnels, caverns, grottos, and wrecks. With the ambient ocean temperature around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, the flora and fauna is prolific to say the least and divers won’t lack for activities. The northern side of Virgin Gorda is mountainous, with Gorda Peak reaching 1,370 feet, as the highest spot on the island enclosed by the Gorda Peak National Park. A lookout tower at the summit offers an excellent view of North Sound and Anegada as well as the land snaking it’s way to the southern end of the isle as well as other islands with their heads above the waves. Hikers may wish to consider excursions around the northern spine of the island to enjoy the views and semi-arid terrain.
Let’s consider some particular items of interest for travelers,
English is the preferred language in the BVI, as is the US dollar but credit cards and travelers checks are widely accepted as well. The only ATM on the island is found at the First Caribbean Bank in Spanish Town in the Virgin Gorda Shopping Center.
Electricity here is 110 so US travelers will not require adapters. However, our European friends will need to accommodate that in their trip planning as their current is 220.
Driving in the British tradition, is on the left in the BVI but most cars have the steering wheel on the left as well. Traffic can be dicey so the best rule of thumb is to drive defensively.
Virgin Gorda is in the Atlantic Time zone, which is one hour ahead of Eastern Standard time and does not observe daylight savings time.
The modicum of dress is casual but not too provocative outside of the beach. As they say, when in Rome, do as the Romans do. Casual elegance is the word of the day when going out in this destination as well as most of the BVI.
To get married on Virgin Gorda requires being in the British Virgin Islands for three days before applying for a marriage license, which must be done in Road Town on Tortola.
Internet Access is available through Internet café’s such as the Chandlery in the Yacht Harbor Marina or from the property you are staying in.
Cell phone services can be arranged through CCT Boat Phone
The island's tourist office is in Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbor, Spanish Town.
There is a departure tax of $20.00 per person leaving by air, $5.00 leaving by sea and $7.00 for cruise ship passengers. In the British Virgin Islands there is a 7% Hotel tax for visitors who stay for six months or less. Please note that this applies to most accommodations, not just hotels.
Entry Documents for the BVI require a valid U.S. passport or other proof of U.S. citizenship such as the original or certified birth certificate, Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship as well as photo identification. Visitors will also need onward or return tickets, and funds for their stay.
Virgin Gorda doesn’t have any significant ground water resources so cisterns are prevalent and required in new buildings. This water is filtered before it is used but travelers may wish to consider bottled water if they have some concern. There are now desalination plants here so some water is provided from the sea as well.
This island has a year round temperature of 77-85 degrees with 40 inches of average rainfall annually on the coast with up to 70 inches per year in the mountains, low humidity and cool breezes. Due to the trade winds, temperatures usually drop 10 degrees Fahrenheit at night. The rainy season here is from September to December.
Virgin Gorda is not renowned for it’s jumping nightlife and that is what makes it a favorite for families and those looking for a quite escape. There are however a few places to enjoy the nightlife in Yacht Harbour and the Valley. The bitter end Yacht club is a popular watering hole but it takes a boat to get there.
You can get to Virgin Gorda by air, via St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands using Air St. Thomas or by boat from either St. Thomas or Tortola. A ferry operates between Road Town , Tortola and the Valley on Virgin Gorda five times a day Monday through Saturday and two trips on Sunday. From St Thomas there are three ferry crossings per week.
Cab and bus service on Virgin Gorda is unreliable at best so it’s a good idea to consider renting a car here or on St Thomas or Tortola but bear in mind that driving is on the left.
In order to drive in Virgin Gorda you will need to acquire a temporary license from the traffic licensing office or car rental agency but you will need a valid license from your own country. These cost around $10.00 each.
The hurricane season is normally from June to the end of November but it’s best to presume that they may occur earlier or later in the season as to be prepared for the eventuality.
http://www.villasmajestic.com
On his second trip to the Caribbean Christopher Columbus named the island group after Saint Ursula and her followers, He named Virgin Gorda (Fat Virgin) due to it’s profile on the horizon with Gorda Peak at 1,370 feet, appearing like a robust reclining woman. The Islands were initially populated by the Dutch and later the English Empire as a sugar cane plantation colony. After the demise of the plantation economy, the island languished until the 1960’s when tourism was introduced to the greater BVI as spillover from the US Virgin Islands tourism industry. Virgin Gorda can now boast that it is one of the BVI’s top family friendly vacation destinations. Not overly developed, this diminutive island is a serene place to relax and enjoy the abundant natural environment.
A great majority of the vacationers go to the Caribbean for the beaches, and on Virgin Gorda, arguably the best beach to be found is at The Baths. Here you find giant boulders that were once liquid deposits of magma and due to the erosion of surrounding earth are now stacked in ways to create grottos and caves providing endless entertainment for beachgoers. Some of the other beaches on Virgin Gorda are Devil's Bay National Park that is about a twenty minute walk from The Baths and is pleasantly secluded. Spring Bay, like The Baths, has large boulders scattered about and a very nice beach called The Crawl, that is welcoming to families and children due to it’s placidity. Not far from Spring bay is Trunk Bay that has a great beach facing the West that is accessible by boat or via a path from Spring Bay. Savannah Bay provides a sandy beach north of the yacht harbor and of course, not to be neglected is Mahoe Bay with a curving beach and beautiful blue water.
The BVI is renowned for excellent sailing conditions as well as dive sites that range from 15 to 80 feet. Many areas have no appreciable current and are ideal for photographers. This area of the Caribbean doesn’t have any extreme drop off’s but it does have plenty of coral gardens and topographical variation including canyons, tunnels, caverns, grottos, and wrecks. With the ambient ocean temperature around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, the flora and fauna is prolific to say the least and divers won’t lack for activities. The northern side of Virgin Gorda is mountainous, with Gorda Peak reaching 1,370 feet, as the highest spot on the island enclosed by the Gorda Peak National Park. A lookout tower at the summit offers an excellent view of North Sound and Anegada as well as the land snaking it’s way to the southern end of the isle as well as other islands with their heads above the waves. Hikers may wish to consider excursions around the northern spine of the island to enjoy the views and semi-arid terrain.
Let’s consider some particular items of interest for travelers,
English is the preferred language in the BVI, as is the US dollar but credit cards and travelers checks are widely accepted as well. The only ATM on the island is found at the First Caribbean Bank in Spanish Town in the Virgin Gorda Shopping Center.
Electricity here is 110 so US travelers will not require adapters. However, our European friends will need to accommodate that in their trip planning as their current is 220.
Driving in the British tradition, is on the left in the BVI but most cars have the steering wheel on the left as well. Traffic can be dicey so the best rule of thumb is to drive defensively.
Virgin Gorda is in the Atlantic Time zone, which is one hour ahead of Eastern Standard time and does not observe daylight savings time.
The modicum of dress is casual but not too provocative outside of the beach. As they say, when in Rome, do as the Romans do. Casual elegance is the word of the day when going out in this destination as well as most of the BVI.
To get married on Virgin Gorda requires being in the British Virgin Islands for three days before applying for a marriage license, which must be done in Road Town on Tortola.
Internet Access is available through Internet café’s such as the Chandlery in the Yacht Harbor Marina or from the property you are staying in.
Cell phone services can be arranged through CCT Boat Phone
The island's tourist office is in Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbor, Spanish Town.
There is a departure tax of $20.00 per person leaving by air, $5.00 leaving by sea and $7.00 for cruise ship passengers. In the British Virgin Islands there is a 7% Hotel tax for visitors who stay for six months or less. Please note that this applies to most accommodations, not just hotels.
Entry Documents for the BVI require a valid U.S. passport or other proof of U.S. citizenship such as the original or certified birth certificate, Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship as well as photo identification. Visitors will also need onward or return tickets, and funds for their stay.
Virgin Gorda doesn’t have any significant ground water resources so cisterns are prevalent and required in new buildings. This water is filtered before it is used but travelers may wish to consider bottled water if they have some concern. There are now desalination plants here so some water is provided from the sea as well.
This island has a year round temperature of 77-85 degrees with 40 inches of average rainfall annually on the coast with up to 70 inches per year in the mountains, low humidity and cool breezes. Due to the trade winds, temperatures usually drop 10 degrees Fahrenheit at night. The rainy season here is from September to December.
Virgin Gorda is not renowned for it’s jumping nightlife and that is what makes it a favorite for families and those looking for a quite escape. There are however a few places to enjoy the nightlife in Yacht Harbour and the Valley. The bitter end Yacht club is a popular watering hole but it takes a boat to get there.
You can get to Virgin Gorda by air, via St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands using Air St. Thomas or by boat from either St. Thomas or Tortola. A ferry operates between Road Town , Tortola and the Valley on Virgin Gorda five times a day Monday through Saturday and two trips on Sunday. From St Thomas there are three ferry crossings per week.
Cab and bus service on Virgin Gorda is unreliable at best so it’s a good idea to consider renting a car here or on St Thomas or Tortola but bear in mind that driving is on the left.
In order to drive in Virgin Gorda you will need to acquire a temporary license from the traffic licensing office or car rental agency but you will need a valid license from your own country. These cost around $10.00 each.
The hurricane season is normally from June to the end of November but it’s best to presume that they may occur earlier or later in the season as to be prepared for the eventuality.
http://www.villasmajestic.com
Monday, February 26, 2007
Georgia & Florida trip
This weekend I traveled leisurely southward on Hwy 441 toward Valdosta, Georgia on my way to Florida to meet with some potential business partners. Eventually, necessity required that I take a different route so I regretfully left this nice four lane sparsely traveled road on the general latitude of Tifton, Georgia and navigated my way west toward Interstate 75.
I’ve traveled extensively through Georgia on back roads and can genuinely recommend it if you care to take the time. Casting my thoughts back as I travel I’m often able to mentally recreate life in the past of the sleepy little hamlets that we now rip through on our self-important missions of business or leisure. I’m sure that I wax romantic in my imaginings as life in rural Georgia couldn’t have been as idyllic as I might suspect but it’s a pleasurable driving pastime just the same.
As you travel south you may note that the soil composition changes from the hard orange clay in northern and middle Georgia to a softer color south of Macon and as you enter the coastal plain proper, it pretty much gives way to sand in the eastern part of the state. In the southwestern portions of Georgia and Alabama however, the clay seems to grip stubbornly southward until it's replaced by limestone.
Crossing Interstate 75 I traveled to Thomasville & then north to Moultrie wherein I had reserved a small suite at a lovely antebellum style home that was converted to a bed & breakfast. Moultrie is a pleasant southern town replete with the obligatory town square and fast food corridor. This town was established and named after a revolutionary war general in 1879 and has grown as an agricultural center but retains a warm southern air of hospitality. Should you traverse this part of Georgia for any length of time it’s agricultural infrastructure should prove pretty obvious.
After a pleasant nights sleep interrupted only by the light of the moon peering through the skylight window bathing me in a silvery secret lovers embrace, I smile and drift into my dreams of southern life. In the morning I bathe in the spiffy claw foot tub that is too short for my stubby five foot seven inch frame but irresistible for those who enjoy a bath and embark on my journey westward.
I travel south and west reaching Tallahassee and Interstate 10 early in the morning. Despite my desire to traverse the scenic byways I have a need to make good time as to arrive in Pensacola for a mid-day appointment with a property owner so I reluctantly join the westbound traffic and race madly toward my destination of choice.
Pensacola is nice enough as is Panama City but I’m afraid my taste lies between these two cities along the coastal areas delineated as Destin and Fort Walton Beach, now built up with myriad’s of condominiums and town homes beckoning visitors to stay a while and bury their feet in the soft white sands. The beaches here are not as wide as those in Daytona Beach and are far softer than the gritty shell fragmented beaches of Jacksonville as they are white and soft with no rip currents to speak of. Rather ideal for family vacationers really.
I have stayed here a number of times. Usually in a waterfront condominium on the second or third floor as not many structures here are taller than that with the exception of the condo towers of course. In the mornings I enjoy waking early to the sound of the surf lapping the shore, brewing a hot cup of coffee and watching the sun rise over what I am pretty sure is Tampa although all I see is water. If you watch the shore for a while you will see large shapes swim along the shoreline in between the beach and sandbar (assuming there is one) trolling for a tasty meal in shallow water where it’s more difficult for the victim to escape. Some are obvious stingrays but others I couldn’t definitively say. I do not however, swim out to the sandbar in murky water, nor do I bathe in the sea without my filet knife on my hip. My logic is that if something wants to nibble on me I’ll have a bite of it as well. Suffice to say I’m not a huge fan of swimming in the sea, but I like to be near it and to fish there.
Negotiations with the property owners is ongoing but I would call my trip a success and I begin my trek northward to Atlanta. I was fortunate to have the time to travel north of Interstate 10 to see the fresh water springs in Ponce De Leon, and further northward and east just south of the Alabama State line. This area is characterized by rolling country, apparently mostly devoted to livestock and agriculture but rampant development seems imminent as demonstrated by the land prices.
In Chattahoochee, FL I turn northwards and am immediately in Georgia once again. Traveling on the back roads I joyride (so to speak) across the seemingly remote countryside to emerge in Macon and then swiftly back to Atlanta. If you’ve ever traveled the section of the I-75 corridor between Macon and Atlanta you may be aware that it’s a mammoth speedtrap but that doesn’t seem to deter adventurous drivers from attempting to fracture the sound barrier in their quest to reach their destination expediently.
Until next time friends, Happy Traveling!
I’ve traveled extensively through Georgia on back roads and can genuinely recommend it if you care to take the time. Casting my thoughts back as I travel I’m often able to mentally recreate life in the past of the sleepy little hamlets that we now rip through on our self-important missions of business or leisure. I’m sure that I wax romantic in my imaginings as life in rural Georgia couldn’t have been as idyllic as I might suspect but it’s a pleasurable driving pastime just the same.
As you travel south you may note that the soil composition changes from the hard orange clay in northern and middle Georgia to a softer color south of Macon and as you enter the coastal plain proper, it pretty much gives way to sand in the eastern part of the state. In the southwestern portions of Georgia and Alabama however, the clay seems to grip stubbornly southward until it's replaced by limestone.
Crossing Interstate 75 I traveled to Thomasville & then north to Moultrie wherein I had reserved a small suite at a lovely antebellum style home that was converted to a bed & breakfast. Moultrie is a pleasant southern town replete with the obligatory town square and fast food corridor. This town was established and named after a revolutionary war general in 1879 and has grown as an agricultural center but retains a warm southern air of hospitality. Should you traverse this part of Georgia for any length of time it’s agricultural infrastructure should prove pretty obvious.
After a pleasant nights sleep interrupted only by the light of the moon peering through the skylight window bathing me in a silvery secret lovers embrace, I smile and drift into my dreams of southern life. In the morning I bathe in the spiffy claw foot tub that is too short for my stubby five foot seven inch frame but irresistible for those who enjoy a bath and embark on my journey westward.
I travel south and west reaching Tallahassee and Interstate 10 early in the morning. Despite my desire to traverse the scenic byways I have a need to make good time as to arrive in Pensacola for a mid-day appointment with a property owner so I reluctantly join the westbound traffic and race madly toward my destination of choice.
Pensacola is nice enough as is Panama City but I’m afraid my taste lies between these two cities along the coastal areas delineated as Destin and Fort Walton Beach, now built up with myriad’s of condominiums and town homes beckoning visitors to stay a while and bury their feet in the soft white sands. The beaches here are not as wide as those in Daytona Beach and are far softer than the gritty shell fragmented beaches of Jacksonville as they are white and soft with no rip currents to speak of. Rather ideal for family vacationers really.
I have stayed here a number of times. Usually in a waterfront condominium on the second or third floor as not many structures here are taller than that with the exception of the condo towers of course. In the mornings I enjoy waking early to the sound of the surf lapping the shore, brewing a hot cup of coffee and watching the sun rise over what I am pretty sure is Tampa although all I see is water. If you watch the shore for a while you will see large shapes swim along the shoreline in between the beach and sandbar (assuming there is one) trolling for a tasty meal in shallow water where it’s more difficult for the victim to escape. Some are obvious stingrays but others I couldn’t definitively say. I do not however, swim out to the sandbar in murky water, nor do I bathe in the sea without my filet knife on my hip. My logic is that if something wants to nibble on me I’ll have a bite of it as well. Suffice to say I’m not a huge fan of swimming in the sea, but I like to be near it and to fish there.
Negotiations with the property owners is ongoing but I would call my trip a success and I begin my trek northward to Atlanta. I was fortunate to have the time to travel north of Interstate 10 to see the fresh water springs in Ponce De Leon, and further northward and east just south of the Alabama State line. This area is characterized by rolling country, apparently mostly devoted to livestock and agriculture but rampant development seems imminent as demonstrated by the land prices.
In Chattahoochee, FL I turn northwards and am immediately in Georgia once again. Traveling on the back roads I joyride (so to speak) across the seemingly remote countryside to emerge in Macon and then swiftly back to Atlanta. If you’ve ever traveled the section of the I-75 corridor between Macon and Atlanta you may be aware that it’s a mammoth speedtrap but that doesn’t seem to deter adventurous drivers from attempting to fracture the sound barrier in their quest to reach their destination expediently.
Until next time friends, Happy Traveling!
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Florida Keys trip
I am just back from the Florida Keys where we offer seventy seven vacation residences on a business & vacation trip Florida . More specifically, I stayed on Marathon in the middle Keys visiting property owners and inspecting the properties we represent in that region so of course I spent more than one day in Key West as we offer more properties there than elsewhere in the Keys.
While in Key West I parked the car and rented a scooter to zoom around the island like a local stopping frequently to see the different properties and take in the flora & fauna. Ready parking areas abound with these little jewels but do be sure to lock them up when you are away. That evening was spent watching a picturesque sunset at Mallory Square and enjoying the myriad’s of street vendors and entertainers. Just a note, the street vendors may change up on the prices for their products if they think you will let them get away with it so hold them to their original price and be willing to walk away. You already knew that though didn’t you?
Of course I also had to go parasailing while there. They only go as high as three hundred feet due to the airport but if your uncomfortable with heights that may be plenty. It provides a very nice view but to be honest I was busy eyeballing those dark shapes in the water and feverently hoping the rope wouldn’t break.
Key West is the southern Mecca for those in the Conch Republic who enjoy the city as well as the destination of choice for those who seek a varied nightlife and is very orientated to pedestrian traffic to
accommodate foot travel and bar hopping visitors. Many of our clients traveling to Key West prefer to be near Duval street due to it’s proximity to downtown as well. So if you anticipate traveling there, please be aware of the demand particularly during festivals and plan ahead and we should be quite able to accommodate you.
As an avid fisherman I was happy to be staying on Marathon as this is about as close as you can get to the Gulf Stream while still on dry land as it’s a mere two miles or so off of the east coast the island. When visiting Florida and navigating coastal waters I strongly encourage ownership of a handheld GPS. Even if you use it just once, it can save you the cost of a tow or repair from running into a reef or stripping the blades from your propeller, not to mention keep you from getting lost. A very worthwhile investment for the peace of mind it brings.
The villa I stayed in had all the amenities as well as a deepwater dock so I could hop right in the boat and be in blue water in short order. The only downside was the long trip at idle speed to get to open water but I guess if that’s all I have to grouse about, I’m doing all right. Right from the property, I watched lobsters congregate by the seawall and caught baitfish for the larger denizens to be had in deeper water as a giant bird circled me looking for his chance at an easy meal. Whether it was me or the baitfish he was considering, I wasn’t sure.
I was fortunate to have quite a few days of pleasant weather so of course I spent them offshore with my hook in the water when not working. From northern Marathon as you travel east away from the island there is a relatively shallow area near the island, gradually deepening until you reach the reef at the edge of the continental shelf to where the Gulf Stream travels north. Initially, I had a not so heavy weight rod and while fishing in around 80 feet of water at the edge of the shelf, a hungry fish got a hold of my line and promptly took half of my rod down to Davey Jones’s locker. I just had to laugh, obviously I would have loved to board that fish but just the same that was fun and not just a little bit funny!
When in the Gulf Stream I brought in grouper, yellow fin, barracuda, permit, an errant puffer fish as well as sea bass and a few mysterious fish whose genesis I cannot admit to knowing. I also fished for whatever might bite over the length of the seven mile bridge, for tarpon in Vaca cut (a channel through the middle of Marathon) and went shark fishing in the Gulf of Mexico about six miles west of marathon. I can honestly tell you that my blood chilled as I watched the sharks cruise around my 25-foot boat attracted by the chum and bait. The water was no deeper than six feet so that I could clearly see the toothy creatures in their quest for the source of the tasty menhaden chum slick (that would be me and a good-sized ladle). They would cruise lazily by, then with a twitch of the tail rapidly increase in velocity to catch up to what I assume was a hapless victim fish feeding on the slick as well.
Normally, sharks will go to the bottom and lurk there while attempting to dislodge the hook or find cover forcing you to cut the line through sheer frustration or boredom. In the shallows however, the sharks will strip the line from your reel in short order as there’s nowhere to go but in any direction away from you. So I drifted and let them fight the weight of the boat on the premise that they would wear themselves out rather than me by tugging my boat all over the Gulf of Mexico.
When fishing north of Marathon, I brought in a Moray eel who tenaciously gripped the hook until safely ensconced in the gunwale of the boat. As I considered this mavolent creature trying to decide if I really wanted to retrieve my hook, he contemptuously spat it out and began to explore the inside of the center console boat. If you have never experienced a moving creature in a center console boat, they generally will pursue you around the boat (kind of like a bowl) unless they get lodged behind a cooler or something.
I thought perhaps a little sun would calm the fanged beastie, after all don’t most aquatic creatures shrivel up in short order due to the sunny heat? Apparently not. This leathery fellow seemed to be enjoying his sojourn above the waves and was perhaps working on deepening his dark green tan as he leisurely pursued me around the boat. Eventually with the aid of a paddle and a gaff I encouraged my red-eyed friend overboard and continued fishing.
I really enjoy the Florida Keys as they provide a good deal of aquatic topographical variety between Key Largo and Key West as well as a pretty laid back pace. There won’t be the frenetic nightlife outside of Key West for the most part but if you want a pleasant vacation with reasonable cost, I certainly encourage you to consider a week in the Conch Republic.
Happy Traveling!
While in Key West I parked the car and rented a scooter to zoom around the island like a local stopping frequently to see the different properties and take in the flora & fauna. Ready parking areas abound with these little jewels but do be sure to lock them up when you are away. That evening was spent watching a picturesque sunset at Mallory Square and enjoying the myriad’s of street vendors and entertainers. Just a note, the street vendors may change up on the prices for their products if they think you will let them get away with it so hold them to their original price and be willing to walk away. You already knew that though didn’t you?
Of course I also had to go parasailing while there. They only go as high as three hundred feet due to the airport but if your uncomfortable with heights that may be plenty. It provides a very nice view but to be honest I was busy eyeballing those dark shapes in the water and feverently hoping the rope wouldn’t break.
Key West is the southern Mecca for those in the Conch Republic who enjoy the city as well as the destination of choice for those who seek a varied nightlife and is very orientated to pedestrian traffic to
accommodate foot travel and bar hopping visitors. Many of our clients traveling to Key West prefer to be near Duval street due to it’s proximity to downtown as well. So if you anticipate traveling there, please be aware of the demand particularly during festivals and plan ahead and we should be quite able to accommodate you.
As an avid fisherman I was happy to be staying on Marathon as this is about as close as you can get to the Gulf Stream while still on dry land as it’s a mere two miles or so off of the east coast the island. When visiting Florida and navigating coastal waters I strongly encourage ownership of a handheld GPS. Even if you use it just once, it can save you the cost of a tow or repair from running into a reef or stripping the blades from your propeller, not to mention keep you from getting lost. A very worthwhile investment for the peace of mind it brings.
The villa I stayed in had all the amenities as well as a deepwater dock so I could hop right in the boat and be in blue water in short order. The only downside was the long trip at idle speed to get to open water but I guess if that’s all I have to grouse about, I’m doing all right. Right from the property, I watched lobsters congregate by the seawall and caught baitfish for the larger denizens to be had in deeper water as a giant bird circled me looking for his chance at an easy meal. Whether it was me or the baitfish he was considering, I wasn’t sure.
I was fortunate to have quite a few days of pleasant weather so of course I spent them offshore with my hook in the water when not working. From northern Marathon as you travel east away from the island there is a relatively shallow area near the island, gradually deepening until you reach the reef at the edge of the continental shelf to where the Gulf Stream travels north. Initially, I had a not so heavy weight rod and while fishing in around 80 feet of water at the edge of the shelf, a hungry fish got a hold of my line and promptly took half of my rod down to Davey Jones’s locker. I just had to laugh, obviously I would have loved to board that fish but just the same that was fun and not just a little bit funny!
When in the Gulf Stream I brought in grouper, yellow fin, barracuda, permit, an errant puffer fish as well as sea bass and a few mysterious fish whose genesis I cannot admit to knowing. I also fished for whatever might bite over the length of the seven mile bridge, for tarpon in Vaca cut (a channel through the middle of Marathon) and went shark fishing in the Gulf of Mexico about six miles west of marathon. I can honestly tell you that my blood chilled as I watched the sharks cruise around my 25-foot boat attracted by the chum and bait. The water was no deeper than six feet so that I could clearly see the toothy creatures in their quest for the source of the tasty menhaden chum slick (that would be me and a good-sized ladle). They would cruise lazily by, then with a twitch of the tail rapidly increase in velocity to catch up to what I assume was a hapless victim fish feeding on the slick as well.
Normally, sharks will go to the bottom and lurk there while attempting to dislodge the hook or find cover forcing you to cut the line through sheer frustration or boredom. In the shallows however, the sharks will strip the line from your reel in short order as there’s nowhere to go but in any direction away from you. So I drifted and let them fight the weight of the boat on the premise that they would wear themselves out rather than me by tugging my boat all over the Gulf of Mexico.
When fishing north of Marathon, I brought in a Moray eel who tenaciously gripped the hook until safely ensconced in the gunwale of the boat. As I considered this mavolent creature trying to decide if I really wanted to retrieve my hook, he contemptuously spat it out and began to explore the inside of the center console boat. If you have never experienced a moving creature in a center console boat, they generally will pursue you around the boat (kind of like a bowl) unless they get lodged behind a cooler or something.
I thought perhaps a little sun would calm the fanged beastie, after all don’t most aquatic creatures shrivel up in short order due to the sunny heat? Apparently not. This leathery fellow seemed to be enjoying his sojourn above the waves and was perhaps working on deepening his dark green tan as he leisurely pursued me around the boat. Eventually with the aid of a paddle and a gaff I encouraged my red-eyed friend overboard and continued fishing.
I really enjoy the Florida Keys as they provide a good deal of aquatic topographical variety between Key Largo and Key West as well as a pretty laid back pace. There won’t be the frenetic nightlife outside of Key West for the most part but if you want a pleasant vacation with reasonable cost, I certainly encourage you to consider a week in the Conch Republic.
Happy Traveling!
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Villa introduction
Good day friends & neighbors,
I am pleased to be able to develop a blog to (let's be honest here) promote our business as well as chat it up and find out what interest the public at large in my industry and how I can improve upon it.
I work with Villas Majestic, LLC, http://www.villasmajestic.com as the resident marketing guru. We specialize in vacation villa rentals that are currently spread over twenty six destinations but we are of course, constantly adding properties and destinations so take this initial post with a grain of salt as invariably the numbers will change.
According to our friends at Wikipedia "A villa was originally a Roman country house built for the upper class". But for our purposes it is going to be your home while your on vacation or for whatever reason that causes you to be temporarily removed from your place of permanent residence.
The properties we offer range from condominiums in hard partying Key West, laid back Mexican haciendas, to opulent palaces on the waters edge in the Caribbean. So, much like others in our industry we are a bit liberal with the term but make no mistake, there are no fleabags to be had with us.
As a special note, I am very pleased to announce that we are the first and only company to introduce an innovation to the luxury villa rental industry of an integrated online booking engine into our website.
This really provides a very useful tool for clients as they can make arrangements for the peripheral services of their villa rental such as plane tickets and auto rental or utilize the hotel section to book a room at the hotel or resort of choice. But to be fair, if you have a good sized party the plane tickets can cost more than the property rental so I'm a little hesitant to call them "peripheral".
A very handy component of the hotel booking engine is the customer review section that allows for informal feedback prior to walking blindly into an undesirable setting. I suspect however that there is some competitive subterfuge going on there occasionally which is a shame. But taken all together it is a very useful tool.
That's all by way of introduction for now but I will be posting updates and feedback to responses so do check back regularly.
I am pleased to be able to develop a blog to (let's be honest here) promote our business as well as chat it up and find out what interest the public at large in my industry and how I can improve upon it.
I work with Villas Majestic, LLC, http://www.villasmajestic.com as the resident marketing guru. We specialize in vacation villa rentals that are currently spread over twenty six destinations but we are of course, constantly adding properties and destinations so take this initial post with a grain of salt as invariably the numbers will change.
According to our friends at Wikipedia "A villa was originally a Roman country house built for the upper class". But for our purposes it is going to be your home while your on vacation or for whatever reason that causes you to be temporarily removed from your place of permanent residence.
The properties we offer range from condominiums in hard partying Key West, laid back Mexican haciendas, to opulent palaces on the waters edge in the Caribbean. So, much like others in our industry we are a bit liberal with the term but make no mistake, there are no fleabags to be had with us.
As a special note, I am very pleased to announce that we are the first and only company to introduce an innovation to the luxury villa rental industry of an integrated online booking engine into our website.
This really provides a very useful tool for clients as they can make arrangements for the peripheral services of their villa rental such as plane tickets and auto rental or utilize the hotel section to book a room at the hotel or resort of choice. But to be fair, if you have a good sized party the plane tickets can cost more than the property rental so I'm a little hesitant to call them "peripheral".
A very handy component of the hotel booking engine is the customer review section that allows for informal feedback prior to walking blindly into an undesirable setting. I suspect however that there is some competitive subterfuge going on there occasionally which is a shame. But taken all together it is a very useful tool.
That's all by way of introduction for now but I will be posting updates and feedback to responses so do check back regularly.
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