Africa — Beachcomber Pete Travel Adventures

Kenya

Kenya is a land of immense topographical diversity that spans the equator on the east coast of Africa. You will find rugged escarpments and volcanoes in the Rift Valley, the shores of Lakes Victoria and Turkana, mountains with snow-capped peaks, flat deserts and granite hills that give way to coral reefs and sandy beaches along the coast. This matchless landscape is filled with a vibrant mix of wildlife, cultures and an endless array of holiday activities.

Begin your adventure in the city of Nairobi. This modern capital city is situated in an area that was brackish swampland a little more than a century ago. The arrival of the train enabled the British to make this frontier town the capital of their East Africa colony. You can visit a wonderful museum and the home of Karen Blixen, the highly regarded author of Out of Africa. The city has a vibrant cultural scene of music, internationally recognized cuisine and a wonderful eclectic mix of colorful shops and boutiques. Nairobi is alive with boundless energy and a melding of races, tribes and cultures that produce its unique urban character.

Today, Nairobi is considered the safari capital of the world. You can retrace the footsteps of Meryl Streep and Robert Redford as you imagine life as an adventurer and hunter. Nairobi National Park is home to herds of buffalos, giraffes and wildebeests. You can see cheetahs, lions and rhinos in the parks, plains, cliffs and forests. From atop Africa’s second highest peak, Mount Kenya, you can survey the majestic landscape. There you will see dawn awaken the inhabitants of thick forested slopes and the snow-capped peak.

Travel to Masai Mara to visit one of Africa’s greatest game reserves. The Mara is comprised of riverine forest, woodland and grasslands that merge with the Serengeti. It is home to a breathtaking array of native wildlife. Eco-tourists can also visit Lake Nakuru, the Kakamega and Aberdare Forests as well as Mount Elgon and the southern region of the Great Rift Valley and the shores of Lake Victoria. The opportunities to explore the idyllic flora and fauna of Kenya are limitless.

You can find vestiges of Kenya’s colonial past in the port city of Mombasa, a city steeped in history. Explore the narrow streets and Arab architecture of the exotic old town. Guests can see markets filled with the aroma of spices and the colors of the traditional buibui, kanga and kikoy garments. You can tour Fort Jesus, an imposing 16th century fortress that guards the harbor. It is a testament to the struggle between Shirazi Arabs and the Portuguese army. The city is filled with churches, mosques and Hindu temples. Mombasa is a melting pot of history and progress as well as cultures and values.

Near Mombasa, travelers will find the sun, sand and surf along palm-fringed white sandy beaches. The warm inviting turquoise water of the Indian Ocean bathes the shoreline, as well as beautiful coral reefs. Relax in the sun or take an excursion offshore and view the reefs, dolphins, sea turtles and a myriad of native marine life. Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Reserve and Wasini Island are world-class dive sites. The quiet fishing village of Shimoni is the starting point for a series of caves that stretch from the coast deep into the jungle.

Whether your goal is a memorable wildlife safari, viewing dramatic landscapes or relaxing in the sun after a day of sightseeing, Kenya will exceed your expectations.

Filed Under: Africa, featured, Kenya

Morocco

The coastline of Morocco runs from the Mediterranean along the Strait of Gibraltar to the Atlantic Ocean. It is a country of wonderful beaches and imposing sand dunes, modern cosmopolitan cities and tranquil seaside villages. First settled by nomads and Phoenician traders, the land came under Roman rule in the 4^th century B.C. The Romans called the area Mauretania and the native people Berbers, which means barbarians. As the Roman Empire declined, Islam rose in importance. Over the next centuries, various sultans ruled the area with their capitals alternating between the cities of Fes and Marrakech. With the arrival of the French in 1912, Morocco became a protectorate with the capital in Rabat. Colonial rule lasted until 1956 when Morocco once again became an independent nation. The nation’s diverse cuisine reflects its history with numerous countries and cultures. During your excursion to Morocco, you can enjoy a meal of couscous, lamb tajines, zaalouk and mint tea.

Traveling along the coast, visitors will find port cities and Spanish enclaves along with the capital of Rabat. There is a 12^th century minaret and some of Morocco’s finest scenery in the Zaer Forest. In Tangier, you’ll discover the charm that has allured artists, musicians, writers and dignitaries for centuries, including Matisse, Hendrix, Twain and Churchill. Tangier has been the main entry point and face of the country for many years. In Casablanca, guests will experience a stunning contrast between the third largest mosque in the world, a historic medina and one of the largest shopping malls in all of Africa. There are numerous art galleries, fountains, parks and wide boulevards in this cultural and economic center of Morocco. Casablanca served as the inspiration for the setting and name of the 1942 motion picture that is widely regarding as one of the best films in history. Further southward are the gorgeous beaches of Agadir and Essaouira. These ancient seaside towns now exemplify modern Morocco.

As you leave the coastal plains and move inland, you’ll discover the cities of Marrakech, Fez, Meknes and Amizmiz. Marrakech is a delightful combination of old and new Morocco. You can view the great plaza of Djemaa El Fna at sunset after spending the day strolling through the souks and ruins of the primeval medina. In Fez, you can explore the former capitol. It is one of the world’s oldest and largest medieval cities. After viewing old Morocco in Fez, travel to Meknes for a modern yet tranquil setting. Visitors will find a large Berber country market filled with wondrous sights in Amizmiz. Stunning scenery, colorful butterflies and native birds await visitors to the Jbel Tazzeka National Park near Taza in the Middle Atlas Mountains as well as the natural beauty and wildlife of the Dayet Aoua freshwater lake.

In Morocco, you can investigate ancient Roman ruins, explore the Sahara during a camel safari, swim in the warm coastal water and hike the High Atlas Mountains. Have a drink in Rick’s Café and imagine yourself waiting for the last plane to Lisbon as you begin a beautiful friendship with this North African country.

Filed Under: Africa, featured

Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt

One of the great scuba diving spots in the mideast, Sharm el-Sheikh is sunny and hot and only averages five inches of rain per year. The average high temperature for the year is 32C (90F), and the average low, 20C (69F). It is a thriving holiday site with a large increase in tourism since 1982. Then, there were three resort hotels, and now there are ninety-one. It has been discovered by the rest of the world.

Sharm el-Sheikh is known as the "City of Peace" for the many peace conferences held there over time, including the Israel-Egypt agreement of 1979 in which the Sinai Peninsula was given Egyptian ownership. There have been no further disputes about it between the two countries since then. In more recent news, President Hosni Mubarak resigned from office in Sharm el-Sheikh in February of 2011 after months of mass protests by the Egyptian people.

Egyptians refer to the city as "Sharm," and now depend on foreign and domestic tourism as the main economic pillar. Tourists from the United Kingdom, Europe and the United States find cheap holidays to Sharm el Sheikh and travel there in large numbers to scuba dive and snorkel and view the vast amount of coral reefs in the waters off the peninsula. Visitors from these areas of the world do not need visas if they are staying fourteen days or less. No longer a fishing village of roughly a hundred Bedouins, Sharm el-Sheikh is a destination, with a population of about 35,000.

Sharm el-Sheikh is on the very southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula which juts into the Red Sea. Formerly a naval base for Egypt, it sits on a promontory that has a wide-ranging view of the Straits of Tiran. It is now a marina for yachts and sailboats and the passenger ferry going to the mainland. Limits on building heights were established to prevent the obscuring of the views all around the city since the influx of new hotels began. The Hyatt Regency, Accor, the Marriott, Le Meridien, the Four Seasons and the Ritz-Carlton are three to five star hotels that have invested in this location.

There is a Hard Rock Cafe in Sharm now, and Naama Bay is the site of the nightlife and dining activity in the city. Clubs, restaurants, cafes, shops, and Bedouin arts and crafts stands line the street. See the four-star Aqua Blu Sharm Resort, a gigantic water park with many other attractions.

Filed Under: Egypt, featured, Sharm el-Sheikh

Tunisia

Guest Post By: Robbie Cullen

Tunisia is a land of immense natural beauty and the modern home of the legendary Phoenician city of Carthage. The capital city Tunis reflects its Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and French colonial pasts. Tunisia served as a refuge for Moors and Jews who fled during the Spanish Reconquista. The countryside is a mix of pristine beaches, verdant coastal forests and flamingo-filled lakes. The country’s rolling plains are adorned with olive and citrus groves that give way to the captivating sands of the Sahara. Because of its location, Tunisia enjoys hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The country’s strong ties to Europe, a holdover from its days as the breadbasket of Rome, support its prosperous economy.

Travelers who venture to Tunisia can survey the elegant beach of Sidi Bou Said. The 365-step staircase provides scenic views of pine and eucalyptus tree forests. You can witness the fascinating ethnic and cultural diversity of Djerba, an island of pristine beaches and home to the cobblestoned streets of Houmt Souk. In the Bardo Museum, you can view a display of statuary, bronze artwork and the world’s finest collection of Roman mosaics. Kairouan is the home of the 9th century Sidi Okba Mosque, the most revered Islamic site in North Africa. The green and blue marshlands along the banks of Lake Ichkeul are an excellent vantage point for bird watching. The ecosystem is home to herons, flamingos, storks and egrets. A jeep safari is a thrilling way to explore the undulating dunes of Ksar Ghilane.

You can visit the archaeological ruins of Carthage, one of history’s greatest cities. There are magnificent views of the Mediterranean and lush vegetation. The site contains the Sanctuary of Tophet, a Roman amphitheatre and the Antonine Baths. In Medina, which is the site of historic Tunis, you can explore the narrow streets and view the old palaces and monuments in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the Monastir, guests can survey panoramic views from the ramparts of the 8th century citadel. The glistening green and gold domes of the Bourguiba mausoleum are awe-inspiring. You can also enjoy the marvelous local delicacies, such as malsouka, shakshouka and couscous, as you join in on one of the many festivals.

Holiday travelers in Tunisia have a myriad of choices. You can sample the marvelous cuisine with its colonial influence, tour museums and ancient ruins, explore the panoramic countryside or relax on a white, sandy beach. Adventure seekers can mount camels or dune buggies to explore the alluring desert sands. Whatever adventure you choose to experience, a marvelous journey to incredible memories is waiting for you in this stunning North African country.

Guest Post by Robbie Cullen

Filed Under: Africa, featured, Tunisia

Nile River, Egypt

The Nile River is considered to be the longest river in the world as it is over 4,000 miles long. 22 percent of the river runs through Egypt, creating lush, green environment in the area. The ancient Egyptians began their civilization on the banks of the Nile River; therefore, the river has a lot of historical significance.

One of the most popular things to do on the Nile River in Egypt is to take a cruise down the majestic river. The ships normally consist of pools, hot tubs, bars, internet access and a fitness facility. You can take day trip cruise, or you can travel for a longer period of time, such as two weeks. Cairo, Luxor and Aswan are popular Egyptian destinations to depart for a cruise. Some Egyptian cruises down the Nile offer stops at the pyramids, Sphinx or the Cairo Egyptian Museum.

You can also take a dinner cruise down the Nile. Most dinner cruises include a live band and a belly dancer. You can enjoy excellent cuisine while enjoying the bright lights of Egypt.

While in Cairo, it is relaxing to just take a walk along the Nile. There are many bridges in the city where you can take a peaceful stroll on the banks of this historic river. The sunsets are spectacular sights as you are walking along the Nile River.

You cannot travel to the Nile River without seeing the pyramids as most of them are located near the river. The most well-known pyramids are the pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Bodies of famous kings and queens of Egypt were wrapped, protected as a mummy and placed in the pyramid.

The main cities that are situated on the banks of the Nile include Cairo, Gondokoro, Khartoum, Aswan, Luxor, Karnak and Alexandria. At Aswan, the Nile is deep and still. There are monuments in Aswan dedicated to Pharaohs, Greeks, Romans, Christians and Islam. You will also want to see the Philae Temple while in Aswan, and the community also is home to a spectacular sound and light show.

Located in Luxor is The Valley of the Kings, which was used for 500 years as a burial spot of royals. There are over 60 tombs of Pharaohs, queens and other noble citizens. The tomb of King Tut is also located in The Valley of the Kings. You can walk inside the tombs and see the fascinating chambers in which the ancient Kings were laid to rest.

The Nile River in Egypt is rich with history. Many famous people have travelled along the river, including Antony and Cleopatra, Alexander the Great, King Tut and Caesar. The Nile was also the spot where baby Moses was placed in a basket during Biblical times. Therefore, seeing the Nile River up close will be an unforgettable experience. There are so many things do see and do in Egypt while exploring the Nile River. It will be an adventure of a lifetime.

Filed Under: Africa, Alexandria, Cairo, Egypt, featured, Luxor, Nile River

Map of Canary Islands

Located approximately 100 kilometers off the northwest coast of Africa is the Spanish archipelago of the Canary Islands. Although these volcanic outcroppings have been inhabited since pre-historic times, it was the Gaunches who permanently settled the islands around 1000 BC. Over the ages, the Canary Islands have been visited by sailors and tradesman from Carthage, Rome, Phoenicia and the Arab countries. The islands were conquered by Spain and used as a way station for galleons. It was here that ships carrying the Conquistadors would pick up the easterly trade winds that would carry them to the New World. The Canary Islands would defend themselves against British and French invasions in the early 19th Century and play a role in Francisco Franco’s takeover of Spain in the mid-20th. Today, the Insula Canaria, Latin for island of the dogs, are a self governing autonomous community.

Roll Over Map to Explore the Canary Islands

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La Palma Of the seven famous Canary Islands that dot the coast of Africa, La Palma is the fifth-largest and one of the most-visited. It is the most north-westerly of the islands. The capitol holds most of the island’s population in Santa Cruz de la Palma. Just like all of its other sister islands, La Palma boast of an origin that is mostly volcanic….. To Explore La Palma click
La Gomera is the second smallest island of the Canaries. The Canaries are located approximately 80 miles off the coast of Africa, but they are, in both province and territories, Spanish. It sits in the Atlantic Ocean, as part of the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The capitol is located in San Sebastian. La Gomera, like its sister islands, is mainly of a volcanic origin that provides both natural wonder for tourists and educational value for geologists and scientists who wish to study the famous volcanic plains of the island….. To Explore La Gomera click
El Hierro The smallest island in the group is also one of the most beautiful. It is located off of the African coast and is a must see for everyone who loves to travel. You can enjoy El Hierro anytime because it is warm and sunny all year round. The island is stunning with rugged coastlines and mountainous landscape. It is home to some of the most unique animals in the world including the endangered El Hierro Lizard…… To Explore El Hierro click
Tenerife is not only the second most populated island of the Canary Island Chain, but is also one of the most popular with tourists. Each and every year, over four and a half million visitors flock to this island to partake in its unique bounty of culture, natural beauty and entertainment. Whether visitors come to the island to enjoy one of the largest carnivals in the world or the large concentration of cultural attractions, they are sure to leave the island with a huge smile on their face…… To Explore Tenerife click
Gran Canaria of the Canary Islands, has a population of over 1 million people. This makes Gran Canaria the most heavily populated island in Spain. The island is located about 93 miles off of the northwest coast of Africa and 838 miles to the south of Europe. The island’s capital is Las Palmas de Gran Canaria which is also both the largest city and the capital of the Canary Islands at large…… To Explore Gran Canaria click
Fuerteventura is the second largest island of the Canaries, second only to Tenerife. Home to the longest beaches, sun and surf lovers from around the world flock to the island every year. The island is known as ‘the island of eternal spring’ due to its pleasant, year-round climate. An average temperature of 35 C (95 F) in the summer months is rivaled by an average of 22 C (72 F) in the winter. October sees the highest rainfall, with the rest of the year being fairly dry…… To Explore Fuerteventura click
Lanzarote is a Spanish Island that comprises the easternmost section of the Canary Islands, off the Coast of Africa. The islands sit in the Atlantic Ocean, and are not only beautiful in both scenery and climate, but they also provide great places to visit, full of culture and history. The island is volcanic in its origin, and the climate is perfect for visiting all year round. Because of the dry climate and subsequent lack of erosion on the island, the eruptions from the volcanoes during the 18th and 19th centuries,….. To Explore Lanzarote click

The archipelago consists of seven main islands plus several smaller ones. One of the main islands is Tenerife. It boasts the highest mountain in Spain and is the country’s most populated island. The mountain is the Teide volcano, a World Heritage Site and the third largest island volcano on Earth. It is on this island that you will find the modern and iconic Auditorio de Tenerife and the major tourist attraction of the Teide National Park. The island of Fuerteventura is a UNESCO biosphere reserve and is the oldest inhabited of the Canary Islands. Gran Canaria hosts the Maspalomas Dunes, a popular tourist attraction. The island city of La Palma is home to numerous museums that display Canary Island artifacts and reveal the storied history of the islands. The other islands are also home to museums, national parks and historic landmarks. Each island displays in its own way the unique history as well as the natural beauty of the flora and fauna of the islands.

Guests will enjoy the unique sport of Canarian style wrestling and the cuisine of roasted fish, the papas arrugades potato dish and, of course, the local mojo sauce which is the ancestral basis for all Latin American and Caribbean mojo sauces.

Due to its location, the Canary Islands have a subtropical climate that produces long hot summer days and cooler winter days. With this marvelous climate, natural wonders and beaches, the Canary Islands are a major tourist destination attracting over 12 million visitors per year.

Canary Islands
Spain	Canary Islands	Africa
	El Hierro
Fuerteventura	Gran Canaria	La Gomera
La Palma	Lanzarote	Tenerife
Airports of Canary Islands
Tenerife North Airport		Tenerife South Airport

Filed Under: Africa, Canary Islands, El Hierro, Europe, featured, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, La Gomera, La Palma, Lanzarote, Spain, Tenerife

Luxor, Egypt

Few cities on the face of the Earth can match the unique and vibrant city of Luxor, Egypt. From world class nightlife to historic landmarks, Luxor offers something for everyone. With its wealth of historical and cultural landmarks, Luxor seems more like a living museum than a city. Yet it still boasts all the amenities and comforts of a modern, vibrant metropolis. With its beautiful architecture, fascinating history and modern amenities, Luxor is truly one of the greatest places on Earth to visit.

Luxor’s long and glorious history stretch all the way back to Ancient Egypt. The city served as the dynastic capital of Egypt’s New and Middle Kingdoms. This has endowed the city with a wealth of wondrous historic sites and monuments such as grandiose temples and tombs housing some of Ancient Egypt’s royalty. Set against the backdrop of the endless Sahara Desert and the famed Nile River, Luxor provides a truly one-of-a-kind experience for even the most jaded traveler.

Luxor is filled with a plethora of historically significant sites and landmarks. The city’s East Bank contains the spectacular Temple of Karnak, the famous Luxor Temple and the Luxor Museum. Also here are the Museum of Mummification and the breathtaking ruins of the Karnak Open Air Musuem. The West Bank of Luxor holds the magnificent Valley of the Kings as well as the equally astounding Valley of the Queens. The West Bank is also home to the Colossi of Memnon, the Mortuary Temple of Ramses III and the Mortuary Temple of Merneptah. Both sides of the city play host to a plethora of hotels, nightclubs, restaurants and shops.

For shoppers, Luxor is home to two main markets which hold a myriad of shops, boutiques, restaurants and souvenir stands of every kind. Shopping enthusiasts will find plenty of outlets here, no matter what they’re looking for. Just walking through the sea of vendors, shopkeepers and traveling salesmen is an experience in and of itself.

As the city lies in the heart of the vast Sahara Desert, be prepared for extreme heat and dry weather. Luxor’s climate is dry and hot year round. Always bring a water bottle with you and a map as well. It’s also a good idea to join a tour group for guidance of the city’s fabulous sites and wondrous ancient ruins.

As the crown jewel of the Upper Nile, Luxor is truly a unique and enthralling place to visit. With its mix of ancient ruins, iconic landmarks and pulsing nightlife, Luxor is a place like no where else in the world.

Filed Under: Africa, Alexandria, Cairo, Egypt, featured, Luxor

Alexandria, Egypt

Alexandria is a city in the country of Egypt and has a population of just over 4.1 million people, which makes the city the second largest city in the country. Alexandria is located on the northern portion of Egypt and lies directly on the Mediterranean Sea. The location on the sea makes Alexandria a major seaport which handles a vast majority of Egypt’s imports and exports. Tourism is the other major part of the Alexandrian economy. The beautiful weather, ancient ruins and museums are the major reason why tourist love to visit the city.

Alexandria was founded in 331 BC and named after its founder, Alexander the Great. Alexander left the city only a few months after its foundation and he would never return. Construction of the city continued to follow Alexander’s wishes of making the city feel as much like Greece as possible. After Alexandria was finally finished it shortly became one of the largest cities in the world. Alexandria would become home for Egyptians, Greeks and Jews. This led to tension for many years until the city was taken over by Julius Caesar and put under Roman rule in the year 47 BC. Alexandria would be the home of many battles throughout the years, which would partially destroy the city. The city would undergo redevelopment in the early 19th century which restored it to early days.

The beautiful weather and amazing beaches have allowed Alexandria to become a large resort town. Outside of the winter months, the weather is perfect with little to no rain fall occurring. The winter months of December, January and February will see average high temperatures between 16 and 18 °C. Winters in Alexandria are also known for their heavy rain and violent storms. The other nine months of the year, the average temperatures will range from 24 to 30 °C. With no rain falling during this time, the weather is absolutely perfect for the beach and sightseeing.

One of the most popular attractions found in the city is the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. Alexandria was once the home to the world’s oldest libraries, but most of them were all destroyed. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is the Egyptian governments attempt to recreate the experience found in the ancient libraries. The new library lies in the same area of the old library and holds thousands of ancient books that can not be seen anywhere else. There are currently over 1 million books at the library, but it is far from being at full capacity. Along with the library, there are also several museums and exhibitions located in the Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

One of the major features found in the library is the Planetarium Science Center. There are 5 different shows that are shown throughout the day in the planetarium. Located next to the planetarium is an area where the visitors can interacts with some of the science exhibits. Other major attractions found in the Bibliotheca Alexandrina include the Sadat museum, World of Shadi Abdel Salam exhibition and four art galleries.

Filed Under: Africa, Alexandria, Cairo, Egypt, featured

Cairo, Egypt

Perched along the banks of the mighty Nile River in Lower Egypt, Cairo is an idyllic destination for history buffs and casual vacationers alike. The juxtaposition of rich, well-preserved historical sites and bustling modern attractions creates a unique, Egypt holidays all-in-one experience that is difficult to find anywhere else in the world. UNESCO World Heritage Sites lie next to upscale restaurants and shopping malls, reflecting the spirit of Cairo’s illustrious past as well as its burgeoning future.

Cairo is the sixteenth largest metropolitan area in the world, and the largest in Africa. Nearly seven million people call the city home, with more than nineteen million scattered throughout the 33,000 square mile metropolitan area. Officially founded in 969 A.D., the area that is now modern Cairo has been home to a number of important historical settlements, including the former Egyptian capital cities of Fustat and Memphis. Because of its central location, Cairo flourished during the Middle Ages as a major center of Islamic scholarship and a key part of the lucrative spice trade. After a period of stagnation, the 1800s saw the beginning of a policy of modernization that continues to today.

Today’s Cairo testifies to the success of this modernization policy, with glimmering high-rise buildings and luxurious hotels towering along the banks of the Nile. The city also features several high-profile shopping centers, a number of parks, including Cairo Botanical Gardens, and Giza Zoo, fittingly one of the oldest zoos in the world. Cairo is also home to two large theme parks, Dream Park and Magic Land, providing entertainment for the whole family. Beautiful Mena House Golf Course also provides entertainment for scratch golfers and weekend warriors alike, with the Pyramids of Giza providing a backdrop for many holes. Feluccas, small traditional sailboats, are available along the Nile River for those seeking more leisurely activities.

Of course the biggest draw in Cairo, as it has nearly always been, is the rich and diverse history. There are more than 600 classified monuments in and around the city, dating back as far as the seventh century. Monuments and artifacts from Ancient Egypt, among the earliest and most successful civilizations, still dot the landscape. The Sphinx stands watch over the Pyramids at Giza just outside the city. The Great Pyramid, the last of the Seven Wonders of the World left standing, is perhaps the most awe-inspiring of Cairo’s many monuments. History lovers will also enjoy a trip to the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, where countless ancient artifacts are displayed for the public. The Cairo Tower, at 610 feet high, offers a spectacular uninterrupted 360-degree view of the city, with the pyramids and other monuments visible in the distance.

Few locations on Earth can provide the sheer variety that Cairo offer, and even fewer can claim such historical importance. For many, the pyramids and other monuments alone make the visit worthwhile, but Cairo is sure to hold something for everyone. From the energetic, ultra-modern entertainment and night life of Downtown, to the nearly unchanged links to the past at Giza, Cairo is undoubtedly a can’t miss destination.

Filed Under: Africa, Cairo, Egypt, featured

El Hierro, Canary Islands

If you are planning a holiday you should travel to El Hierro, Canary Islands. The smallest island in the group is also one of the most beautiful. It is located off of the African coast and is a must see for everyone who loves to travel. You can enjoy El Hierro anytime because it is warm and sunny all year round. The island is stunning with rugged coastlines and mountainous landscape. It is home to some of the most unique animals in the world including the endangered El Hierro Lizard. Unlike most islands, El Hierro is full of large forests that are home to the Canary Island pines and wax myrtles. The thousand year old junipers grow up to 70 centimetres tall and are an amazing sight to see.

What attracts visitors to the island is the beautiful cliffs and abundant sea life. It is one of the most famous destinations in the world for scuba divers and snorkelers. The island has over 25 diving sites that are recognized all over the world and the visibility is amazing because the waters are incredibly deep. Divers and snorkelers had better take their underwater camera’s because they will see spiny globefish, black sea bream, trumpet fish and black coral. Hammerhead sharks have been spotted along with giant rays, triggerfish and tuna. One of the most popular diving spots on El Hierro is Mar Las Calmas as the sea is very calm.

Other popular activities on the island include rock climbing, mountain biking, paragliding, cave exploration and wind surfing. If you want to see the entire island you must hire a car or take a taxi. Most of the tiny villages have a personal taxi driver who would be glad to show you around the island.

If you like to hike you must travel to Pozo De Las Calcosas and Charco Manso. Both are located on the north coast of the island and have naturally formed swimming pools. Even the houses are built with stone. Be sure to take your hiking boots as the only access is straight down the cliff on a narrow path.

Valverde is the islands capital and has traditional restaurants where you can dine on fresh fish and traditional tapas. Stay the night at one of the quaint hotels or book a local bed and breakfast.

El Hierro Canary Islands is a holiday that everyone should experience. Grab your partner, your family or your friends and head to one of the most beautiful destinations in the world.

Canary Islands
Spain	Canary Islands	Africa
	El Hierro
Fuerteventura	Gran Canaria	La Gomera
La Palma	Lanzarote	Tenerife
Airports of Canary Islands
Tenerife North Airport		Tenerife South Airport