Whale Sharks

Residing in a world apart from our own, marine life has always been quite intriguing to us land-dwellers. All of the many sizes, shapes and colors of the different species of fish have been of great interest to us from the beginning of time. Whale Sharks are the largest existing fish and have been the object of fascination to thousands of divers all over the world, though many divers spend their entire lives trying to find one.

Whale Sharks are majestic creatures. These gentle giants swim with their enormous mouths open, gulping down plankton, small fish, squid and crustaceans along their way. They can open their mouths to up to five feet wide. They are the largest fish in the oceans and only a few whales are larger than them. They are cold blooded creatures and they breathe through their gills. Whale sharks can weigh over nine tons and grow up to 40 feet long. Amazingly, their skin can be over 4 inches thick! These fish have a two colored pattern of light spots and lines on a dark brown dorsal surface.
Whale Sharks
Whale sharks can be found all over the world. Popular destinations for travelers to dive with whale Sharks can be found in Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, South Africa, and Western Australia are a few countries divers go to find them. But they are easily spotted all over Central America. Cancun, Mexico, Belize and Honduras are just a few of the hot spots for spotting whale sharks.

Utila Island, off of Honduras, has been called the whale shark capital of the Carribean. Whale sharks have been seen there all year long. Though they can be spotted throughout the year, the best times to try to find them are March through April and August through September. A whale shark sighting usually involves finding just one, but it is possible to see five or more whale sharks in the waters around Utila.

Belize is one of the most popular spots in the Americas for whale shark sightings. Gladden Spit, located in the Belize Barrier Reef, is located 26 miles off the coast of Placencia. There are lots of whale sharks in this area during April and May, when schools of cubera snapper fish are actively spawning. Gladden Spit is a protected area. Rangers allow only six tour-operated boats at a time, making the experience much more intimate.

An important habitat for the whale shark is in the Gulf of Mexico. The major oil spill that resulted from the explosion of BP's Deepwater Horizon platform in 2010 in the Gulf still poses a critical threat to the whale sharks that reside in the region.

Whale sharks are harmless to humans. They are quite friendly and will often interact. They are very large creatures but are quite docile and serene. They will even allow swimmers to catch a ride with them, though this is discouraged by scientists, conservationists and researchers. Younger whale sharks can be especially playful.

It's vital for any diver lucky enough to encounter one of these animals to always treat them with respect. Whale sharks are an endangered species and it's imperative to their survival that they not be mishandled or harmed.

Share

Thailand Beaches

Best Beaches of Thailand

When it comes to having a variety of beaches to choose from, Thailand offers plenty of options. Boasting some of the best beaches in the world, the most difficult task for those seeking the perfect beach getaway in Thailand is deciding which one to visit. Whether seeking the solitude of an isolated stretch of pristine, white sand shoreline, or a festive beach party atmosphere, Thailand offers something for everyone. With cheap flights to Thailand, travelers will find the two most popular beach destinations in Thailand are Phuket and Koh Samui, and with good reason, but there are some less known, but equally beautiful beach destinations waiting to be discovered.

Koh Samui Beach, Thailand
Koh Mun Nork

This little slice of paradise offers all the comforts of a luxury resort with the feel of a deserted island. Koh Mun Nork is a private island located in the Gulf of Siam and is accessible only by a private vessel, owned by the only resort on the island. Inviting hammocks are scattered along the white sand beaches, offering a place to relax and unwind. For those who prefer a bit of adventure, snorkeling, diving and kayaking are also available, but the main theme of Koh Mun Nork is tranquility.

Koh Phangan, Thailand
Koh Phangan

In sharp contrast to the peaceful ambiance of Koh Mun Nork, Koh Phangan is renowned as a party haven. Visitors from all parts of the world come to this lovely destination to experience the legendary night life of the Full Moon Party, held at Haad Rin beach, but there is much more to this charming island than midnight debauchery. Sparkling white sand beaches accent the beautiful turquoise water, with sheer mountains creating a dramatic backdrop. The outstanding combination of natural beauty and plentiful activities make this beach a favorite.

Koh Tao, Thailand
Koh Tao

This divers paradise was once a favorite hideaway for pirates, and a relaxing stopover for weary fisherman. It even served as a prison for a time, but don't let its colorful background fool you. Koh Tao has some of the most breathtaking beaches anywhere in Thailand. With an abundance of outstanding dive sites, Koh Tao is considered the premier diving destination in Thailand.

Koh Chang, Thailand
Koh Chang

White sand dotted with an abundance of lush palm trees artfully underscores the inviting crystal water of Koh Chang. Located in the eastern Gulf of Siam, Koh Chang is the second largest island in Thailand, although one of the least developed. This island has an abundance of spectacular beaches, but the most picturesque are located along the west shoreline.

So grab one of many flights to Phuket or Thailand and enjoy a perfect getaway on one of the many beaches that Thailand has to offer.
Share

Bangkok, Thailand

The largest urban area and capital of Thailand is the independent, influential and dynamic cosmopolitan city of Bangkok. From its early days as a small 15th century trading post during the Ayutthaya Kingdom, the city has grown into a metropolis of 12 million people at the mouth of the Chao Phraya River. As the home to the stock exchange and all of Thailand’s commercial banks, the city is a powerful influence on the region’s business and finance. The second most expensive city in Southeast Asia behind Singapore, Bangkok is increasingly becoming more apparent on the global stage in terms of politics, fashion, culture and entertainment. Bangkok is divided into several districts. Each one has its own mix of cultural sites, restaurants and shopping. Because the region was never colonized by Europeans, it has preserved its own unique cultural identity.
Wat Arun temple, Bangkok, Thailand
Visitors to the city will find many cultural landmarks and attractions, such as the Grand Palace, Vimanmek Palace Complex and Wat Arun. There are also numerous ancient and historic Buddhist temples throughout the city. Bangkok is becoming synonymous with the concept of exoticism. This is the art, music and design theme that evokes images of far-off exotic locations during ancient times. Guests can take a boat tour and view the ancient canals that gave rise to the city’s moniker as the “Venice of the East.” You can also stroll through the busy open-air markets or the glitzy shopping malls. Guests can take time to relax or the large green park between Samut Prakan and Yannawa or the regionally famous Lumphini Park. You can view major ancient and contemporary artworks on display in the National Gallery or participate in one of several cultural festivals held throughout the year.

 

Bangkok is the gateway to Thailand. Tourists will find many cheap flights to Thailand are available and can access the city through the Don Mueang Airport which is the 18th busiest in the world and the newer Suvarnabhumi International. From these facilities you connect to a modern network of busses, trains and subways. The city has a tropical wet climate that produces average daily temperatures of 80º F with significant rainfall during the monsoon months of June through October.

Bangkok or the “City of Angels” is a melting pot of contemporary influences and cultural traditions. In the city, modern business meets ancient religion and glass skyscrapers overshadow exotic temples. Bangkok guarantees modern amenities as you experience old world charm.

 

Share