Archive for November 2010
Countries Where You Can Explore Beautiful Coral Reefs
Author Alexine
By: Alexine
One of the most sought after attractions around the world are natural coral reefs. They are home to many exotic sea creatures and lots of colorful fish. People travel long distances to visit these remarkable places. Here are countries where you can find some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world. Whether you dive, snorkel or are just looking to take a boat tour, anyone can enjoy one of these coral reefs.
Africa
Seychelles is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world. This cluster of islands is located off the east coast of Africa out in the Indian Ocean. If you are looking for multiple reefs in one place then this is the vacation spot for you. Here you will find one of the finest atolls in the world Aldabra Atoll along with Ste Anne Marine National Park.
Asia
Surrounded by several bodies of water, Indonesia is home to many beautiful coral reefs. The three most popular are Raja Ampats, Nusa Tenggara Island Reefs and Napoleon Reef.
India has one of the most beautiful ocean oases, the Andaman Sea Reefs. These clusters of coral reefs are some of the most diverse in the world. There is an abundance of fish, large sea creatures and even crocodiles.
The Philippines is home to the Tubbataha Reefs which shelters hundreds of beautiful sea creatures. These reefs are very popular because of their unique variety of coral and the diving and snorkeling is very accessible.
Japan has some of the largest coral in the world and the Shiraho Lagoon Reef has over one hundred species of coral. This reef is right off shore so you will not have to go far to explore this beautiful masterpiece.
Caribbean
The Bahamas has two of the best coral reefs in the world, San Salvador and The Great Bahama Banks. San Salvador is just a few yards off the shores of the beautiful island of Watling and is a diver’s paradise. The Great Bahama Banks is an old and slow growing coral reef that has both clear water and ancient coral skeletons.
If you are looking to snorkel with your children then the Curacao Underwater Park at Jan Thiel Bay in Netherlands Antilles is the place to go. It has miles of clear and calm water full of beautiful coral and underwater species.
With ship wrecks abundant, the Anegada Reef in the British Virgin Islands is a great place to explore. Bring your favorite underwater camera while you dive to document the amazing sights.
Central America
Belize has many gorgeous coral reefs to explore with your friends and family. The most popular is the Belize Barrier Reef, which is one of the largest in the world. The island of Caye Caulker is a small island that is part of the Belize Barrier Reef and perfect for snorkeling.
Two wonderful places in Mexico to dive are off the shores of Cancun and Cozumel. If you travel to Cancun in the Yucatan Peninsula be sure to visit the Great Mayan Reef. This is the second largest reef in the world. Also Cozumel is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs including Paso del Cedral Reef and The Palancar Reef.
South Pacific
Australia is known for the largest coral reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef. This reef is home to many exotic species that are not found anywhere else in the world. Also if you are a historic diver then do not forget to explore the S.S. Yongala shipwreck as it is quite a site.
When traveling to the exotic islands of Fiji do not miss out on exquisite soft coral reefs in the Namena Marine Reserve. This reef is home to more than four hundred coral species and whales during breeding season in the summer.
Pick Your Place
Now that you have more places to choose from around the world it should be easy to find a beautiful coral reef to explore. Be sure to allow time for sightseeing and other fun activities when you make the long haul half way around the world.
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Celebrate the Holiday Season in Branson, MO
Author Alexine
By Janet Sanders
It’s not too early to be making your holiday plans. This year do something different that the whole family will treasure and talk about for years to come. Visit Branson, Missouri for the holidays. Branson, MO, is a one-of-a-kind family destination nestled among the lakes and peaks of the beautiful Ozark Mountains.
Branson is a wonderful place to enjoy any time of year, but come 1 November, the Christmas spirit descends on Branson and the town is transformed from a sleepy mountain retreat to a spectacular winter wonderland. Branson’s popular Ozark Family Christmas lures visitors from all around the world with a dazzling array of Christmas lights, holiday festivities, unforgettable shows and breathtaking sights.
You’ll find something for everyone in Branson, MO and the holiday season offers extra special events. Here are a few of the most popular special holiday activities.
Festival of Lights
This is a holiday light show like no other. Bundle the kids in the car with hot chocolate and candy canes then head out to explore the breathtaking scenery of the Branson Area Festival of Lights drive through. You’ll be amazed at the gorgeous settings of twinkling lights against a black background. Cruise the one-mile path at your own pace to fully take in the brilliantly illuminated scenery created with more than 175 displays including gingerbread houses, toy shops, and the 12 Days of Christmas.
Adoration Parade
Everyone loves a parade. If your family has never experienced the thrill of an old-fashioned Christmas parade, the 62nd Annual Adoration Parade will surpass your expectations. On December 5, 2010, thousands of spectators will enjoy this extravagant and much-loved production. Watch the wonder of the season unfold as 34 floats and 13 bands decked out for the occasion make their way past. The parade finale is something you and your family will cherish as an annual tradition: the reverent lighting of the nativity scene atop Mount Branson.
Silver Dollar City
You can’t truly experience a Branson, MO Christmas without making a stop at Silver Dollar City where holiday sights, smells and sounds greet you at every turn. An Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City will delight you with more than four million twinkling lights, grand holiday stage productions, rides and attractions, the Gifts of Christmas Lights Parade, lunch with Santa and an array of unique gifts available for that someone special.
Christmas Shows and Entertainment
For relaxing seasonal entertainment check out Branson’s many live shows. In the evening, come in from the cold and dress your family up in their holiday best as you get ready to enjoy one of the many exhilarating Christmas shows and live entertainment productions. You’ll have a tough time choosing which performance to see as the more than 50 venues and 100 live shows in Branson convert to seasonal holiday shows. Any one of them will wow and delight everyone in your family!
Branson Landing
Haven’t finished your holiday shopping? Cross off everyone on your Christmas shopping list with a visit to the outdoor mall at Branson Landing. Known as Branson’s newest “Winter Wonder Landing,” this waterfront shopper’s paradise features hundreds of boutique, brand name and specialty stores. Your family will enjoy the unexpected treasure of one of the landing’s highlights: a water, fire and light spectacular choreographed to the sounds of the season.
Accommodations Galore
Branson boasts more than 22,000 lodging and hotel accommodations, so there are options for every budget this holiday season. Do you long for the coziness of a bed and breakfast inn? Want the rustic feel of cabin rentals in the mountains? From luxurious lodging of five-star hotels and resorts to budget-friendly motels, Branson is a convenient drive for 50% of the U.S. population. If you prefer to fly, the new Branson airport is located just 10 minutes from town.
Few other places can lift your spirits and remind you of the true meaning of the holidays like Branson, MO. Come enjoy the experience of a Branson family Christmas and create rich memories you’ll cherish for years to come.
