Forgotten Route 66 (USA)

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guest post by Lauren Williams

The art of the Great American Road Trip has been lost in translation over the years – driving from A to B used to be an affair to remember, a whimsical adventure that would see you saying farewell to your loved ones for weeks, maybe even months, on end. Now, the 21st century has seen the rise in wanting to get to any said destination right now. Why would you want to take the scenic route when motorways and high-speed interstates can whip you across the country in a matter of hours?

Better still, hopping on a flight from JFK to LAX will take less than half a day, and cost less than driving from Florida Keys to Washington DC – after all, you don’t need breakdown cover when you’re 30,000 feet above the roads.

Historic Route 66 now runs alongside Interstate 40 – the American’s preferred way to drive from east to west – but driving along the USA’s most romanticised road is an indulgence in the kitsch, the bizarre and the can’t-believe-that’s-real. You could speed along the Interstate, but you’d miss out on Gemini Giant and Road Kill Café if you did.

Before buzzing neon signs and burnt-out trucks found their homes at the side of Main Street USA, it was a corridor for travellers and trade; during the Great Depression it was the main artery of the country, with people living in the mid-west migrating to Golden California in hope of work and a golden future. After WWII, thousands more up-and-left the more industrial east to find a more prosperous west.

Though it is no longer the beating heart of mainland USA, it still has a certain hold on the imaginations of will-be travellers and explorers. The hucksterism is still the same too – giant billboards which fuelled the first fires of American wanderlust-cum-consumerism still dominate the roadside, tempting drivers and their passengers to swim next to a giant blue whale or eat where the corn dog was born.

However, Route 66 wouldn’t be Route 66 without the shameless tackiness that lines the roads – we’d even go as far to say that every business owner along the 2,000 mile stretch proudly flies the flag of cheap and shabby – and why not? Travellers travel on a budget, they scrimp and save and cut back by all means necessary, they are not going to stop at a diner to eat over a sweaty packed lunch unless it’s really worth it.

That is why we love Route 66. We love its outspoken past and its crude giant statues. We love its timelessness, its brash personality and its oddly understated presence in modern America. We advise you to take a few weeks off work, hire a convertible Cadillac and head to Chicago to start the drive of your life.

Top Route 66 oddities include:

● Cadillac Ranch. On your way to Amarillo, hold tight to your hire car before it joins this Texan Cadillac graveyard. In a field just off the road, you’ll see ten Caddis buried nose-first in a straight line. An odd sight if you’re not ready for it, however, they are meant to be vandalised so pick up a spray can and get creative!

● Gigantus Headicus. Where Route 66 and Antares Road meet, near Kingman, you could be mistaken for thinking that one of the eerie heads on Easter Island had decided it had had enough of the isolation of the South Pacific, and moved to this less than busy corner in Arizona. Stand under its nose and get a good “I drove Route 66” picture.

● Prada Marfa. Driving across the bare Texan landscape, you’ll be shocked to see a building (surrounded by nothing) resembling a Prada store. If you do decide to stop and check it out, you won’t be able to get in and purchase anything, but you will be able to lust over the real Prada handbags and one half of a pair of Prada heels.

● Oklahoma Ghost. If you find yourself driving between Weatherford and El Reno on a damp evening, be cautious of a humpbacked hitchhiker wearing a trenchcoat and a fedora. If you do pick him up, he’ll more than likely attempt to jump out of your moving vehicle, vanish from sight and appear again thumbing for a lift 10 miles up the road.

● Bottle Tree Ranch. Probably the most impressive attraction along Route 66, featuring hundreds of bottle trees tinkering in the wind. Make sure you knock on Elmer Long’s (the quirky guy behind the ranch) door for a chat and tour.

Photo Credits: sign, gas station, Mr D, cadillac ranch, prada, bottle tree

Swimming Hikes on Kauai (Hawaii, USA)

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guest post by Great Vacation Retreats

The island of Kauai, of one of the main islands in the Hawaiian archipelago, is noted for its jugged mountains, palm fringed beaches, and beautiful tropical scenery. For those that enjoy outdoor exploration, Kauai offers many exceptional hikes. An especially enjoyable and unique activity is combining hiking and swimming. There's nothing quite like cooling off with a swim in the ocean after the exertion of a strenuous hike. Below, we outline four hikes on Kauai that begin and end at the ocean.

The first hike is an easy 1.5 mile round trip that starts and ends at Moloaa Bay on Kauai's northeast coast. Moloaa Bay is a beautiful crescent shaped beach, made famous when it was used for the first episode of the TV series Gilligan's Island. The trail begins at the north end of the beach and makes its way along the coast, eventually coming to a dead end at private property. The ocean views along the trail are soothing, and in the winter months you may even spot migrating Humpback whales. You can end your hike with swimming or snorkeling at the bay. For a convenient picnic lunch, the Moloaa Sunrise fruit stand nearby sells all sorts of healthy and tasty treats, from smoothies to sandwiches.

One of the most famous hikes in Hawaii is the Kalalau Trail along Kauai's rugged Napali coast. The Kalalau Trail is 11 miles long and suitable for experienced hikers who are prepared to spend a night camping in the Kalalau valley. For a challenging day hike one can hike the first two miles of the trail to Hanakapi'ai Beach. Resist the urge to swim at this remote beach as it's one of the most dangerous on the island with strong currents at all times. At this point you can turn back, or hike inland for 2 miles to the 300 foot high Hanakapi'ai Falls. Including the falls this makes for an 8 mile hike that takes around seven hours. It's important to prepare for this hike with hiking gear and plenty of water and snacks. The trail changes elevation frequently and can be very slippery when it rains. The Kalalau Trail starts at the end of the highway on Kauai's north shore at Ke'e beach. This beach has excellent swimming and snorkeling, especially in the summer months when the ocean is calmer.

In the town of Kapaa on the eastern coast of Kauai is the Kapaa Bike Path, a four mile long ocean side paved path. This hike is ideal for those that don't like inclines, or need a smooth walking surface. The path passes by Kealia Beach, a life guarded beach with swimming, surfing, and boogie boarding. The beach actually makes for a good starting and ending point. Walking north from Kealia takes you through the most scenic section of the path and to another beach called Donkey Beach. This segment is approximately three miles round trip.

In Poipu on the southern coast of Kauai is the Mahaulepu Coastal Trail (also see top photo). The trail starts at Shipwreck Beach in front the Grand Hyatt hotel and continues along undeveloped coastline for about three miles, passing remote Mahaulepu Beach two miles into the hike. It's not uncommon to see an endangered monk seal napping on the sand. The solitude and beautiful ocean views make this one of the best hikes on the island. Although there are no inclines the hike is still fairly strenuous as parts of it are over sand and there are few trees to provide shade from the hot Hawaii sun.

This article (and photography) was provided by Great Vacation Retreats, a Kauai vacation rental agency. Great Vacation Retreats manages a number of rental properties including rentals at Puu Poa, a luxury condominium complex in Princeville.

Which Is the Best Caribbean Island to Spend Your Vacation On?

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guest post by The Traveler Zone

In case you would like to have a busy nightlife, go scuba diving, eat lobster and relax in a hammock under a palm tree, then it is the Caribbean that you have been looking for. But since the region is made of numerous islands, which one should you choose to make the best of your trip?

You want to dine?

In case you are looking for a special culinary experience, you should make sure to have a trip to St. Martin, St. Barts, Anguilla, Guadeloupe, and Barbados. Here you will find African, Indian, Spanish and French dishes or their influences over the traditional local dishes. You can visit beachside restaurants and also high-end restaurants where you will be served by five star chefs. No matter where you are from and what you are looking for, for sure you will be satisfied by the food that you will find here.

Family trip

You could be planning a trip for the close family, including kids, but you could also go with more relatives, such as aunts, uncles and grandparents. There are some destinations that offer fun, entertainment and relaxation to the entire family. Make sure that you gather some information about Grand Bahama, Grand Cayman Islands, Montego Bay, Dominican Republic and Aruba.

The Grand Bahama offers you numerous possibilities for family activities, including snorkeling on the reef, climbing rock walls, horseback riding along the beach, cave exploration, playing volleyball on the beach and riding banana boats.

Nightlife

You might find the region very active during the day, but when the sun goes down, the night clubs come to life. For sure you will enjoy all the clubs sizzling by salsa and other specific rhythms, rum cocktails and special dance moves. Also you have the possibility to spend some time at a local casino to truly enjoy what the night life has to offer. The places you should make sure to visit include Havana, Cuba, San Juan, Puerto Rico, Negril, Jamaica, Antigua and Barbados.

Get romantic

You don’t have to think about romance only in case you are preparing for your honeymoon. You could start a relationship with a getaway to one of the islands that the Caribbean’s have to offer. If you are looking for sand, daiquiris and sunset then you could choose from St. Lucia, The Grenadines, British Virgin Islands, Tobago and Abaco Islands. This will be the best romantic experience of your life.

The Caribbean offers a vacation for everyone whatever they are looking for. Come and enjoy one of the many suuny islands whether you want lots of activity or just some time to relax.

This is a guest post by TheTravelersZone.com. The travel blog contains useful tips and information to make your vacation a memorable experience.

Photo Credits: beach, fish BBQ, swimming with manta rays, Havana nightlife, sunset kiss

British Columbia – Splendour without Diminishment (Canada)

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guest post by Nazeli K. Kyuregyan

The Latin motto splendor sine occasu suits perfectly the most exciting Canadian province. Let its natural gems inspire your soul while its vibrant cities conquer your mind.

Splendid Nature

Incredibly naturally gifted, British Columbia is venerated by adventurers from all around the world. Whether you are a skier, snowboarded, free-climber, hiker, cave-explorer, animal lover, kayaker, experienced golfer, or a beach devotee BC has a special gift just for you. It will impress you with its steep snowy slopes, rocky mountains, endless green pathways, labyrinths of caves, unforgettable wild animal-watching, enchanting kayak-paradise creeks, sun beamed golf courses, sandy beaches and much, much more. This is probably the only place in the world where you cam ski in the morning and sunbath in the afternoon. Its generous 824 naturals parks have everything from frozen waterfalls to even a small desert.

Splendid Vancouver

Even if you are not particularly attached to Mother Nature, BC will definitely not bore you. A single day is enough to turn you into a Vancouver-addict. The multicoloured metropolis, locked between the Coast Mountain and the Pacific, has many secrets to share. Variety is the key word here, where you can find all types of accommodation, restaurants that will take you across all continents and activities to fill your every second.

Explore Chinatown for an original dim sun, have a shopping session at the fashionable Yaletown then stop for a very special maple cream ale at Granville Island and drift through its colourful markets. Have a perfumed stroll among the roses of Stanley Park and a rendezvous with the charming giant octopus at the Vancouver Aquarium. Old-style Gaston is a must for its unique ancient houses and the famous Steam Clock, followed by a picnic under a 500-year old tree at the Seymour National Park.

If you are hungry for romance head to the Sunshine Coast for a magnificent ocean cruise or a kayak race among the tranquil creeks, whereas if you need to show off your hi-tech snow equipment the exclusive Whistler snow resort will become your top destination.

More adventures are just around the corner. Challenge yourselves with the extra-tough 2.9km Grouse Grind Trail then enjoy the Pacific during a windsurf lesson.

Splendid Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is the home of British Columbia’s majestic capital Victoria. Go back in time as you study its colonial architecture, explore the old Inner Harbour, get lost in its famous flower gardens or take your high tea in an old-style hotel. Remember to greet the inhabitants of the West Coast, the orcas, then have a breath-taking visit of Canada’s tallest waterfalls, the Della Falls. A busy day requires a healthy dinner at the Salmon Capital of the World – Campbell River.

Splendid Haida Gwaii

The Queen Charlotte Islands, now known as Haida Gwaii, treasure the authentic aboriginal culture. The villages and museums of the First Nations will unravel Canada’s indigenous history and heritage. The archipelago is also home to unique animal and plant species together with rare First Nations art and crafts.

Splendid Glamping

If you love nature but feel uncomfortable for its side effects (bugs, unwelcoming tents, mud, canned food, etc.), glamping, or glamorous camping, is your solution. British Columbian resorts offer comfortable outdoor experiences such as dark chocolate s’mres by the bonfire, yoga lessons in the middle of the lush rainforest, or master-chef pancakes with freshly picked huckleberries for breakfast.

Whatever you do, do not miss to say hi to the nicest inhabitant of British Columbia – the grizzly, that you can easily spot on a luxury bear watching cruise.

For more, check out My Destination British Columbia.

Photo Credits: lake, bears, Vancouver night, gardens, Haida Gwaii

Aloha Hawaii (USA)

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guest post by Leslie To, Aqua Resorts

Hawaii has long been the getaway for those seeking to witness the superbly sublime--a type of natural beauty that startles the mind with its breathtaking profundity and serenity. With the soothing tumble of the Pacific's rolling waves providing a marvelous score, Hawaii provides an outlet for experiences unlike anywhere else on the planet. Whether you're looking to take in the warmth of the sun on one of the many picturesque beaches, challenge yourself to reach the peak of Oahu's famous crater, or acquaint yourself with the dynamic and unique island culture by night, Hawaii boasts a little something for everyone--all of which will be remembered for a lifetime.

Nestled in the heart of city, seconds away from the ocean, and combining island tranquility with contemporary splendor, The Modern Hotel is surrounded with unmissable attractions. Kick up your feet in an unparalleled state of relaxation after seeing the best of what Oahu has to offer.

Take a Surfing Lesson

From the North Shore to Waikiki, the beaches of Hawaii offer varying degrees of surfing difficulty. From beginners to professionals, people travel from far and wide to experience the glistening blue of the island's surf. If you've ever had a longing to give your inhibitions up to the majesty of a wave, there is no better place to try. You'll never forget the feeling of standing up on your board for the first time as you coast back to the beach.

Our Neighbors under the Sea

The clarity of Hawaii's water allows you to see some of the creatures that call the island sea home when simply wading in the surf. However, if you'd like a closer look at the visually-arresting coral reefs, peppered with sea turtles and fish of all different colors and sizes, you'd be hard pressed to find an activity better suited to you than a snorkeling adventure. Strap on your mask, and dive in to a world of mystical beauty.

Hike through a Tropical Paradise

Immerse yourself in the luscious expanse of Oahu's tropical rainforests on a hike you'll remember forever. Enjoy the blissful silence of the jungle, broken only by the distant rumble of a hidden waterfall or the call of a bird as you work up a nice sweat. You never know what you may come across. You may just stumble upon an area you recognize from the hit show LOST.

A Nightlife Worth Exploring

Filled with restaurants, shops, nightclubs, bars, and other Oahu hotels worth exploring, you've got options when the sun goes down. Choose from a number of world class restaurants before dancing the night away or taking in a show. When it's time to wind down, take a relaxing nighttime stroll along the sand with a refreshing cup of coconut ice cream.

See the Island from Above

Oahu is home to Diamond Head Crater, part of a larger series of Hawaii's famous volcanoes. If you'd like to see the entirety of the crater, including the National Guard facility within, as well as the rest of the island with an unrestricted 360 degree view, you should consider taking a helicopter tour. You'll be able to see for miles as you gaze out across the Pacific, and the views of Oahu are truly spectacular when seen from the air.

Regardless of your choice of activity, on Oahu, one thing is for certain--you'll never feel at a loss for things to do. And when calling The Modern Honolulu home for the duration of your stay, you're never far from the action. Come enjoy the Aloha spirit in Hawaii!

Photo Credits: sunset, surfing, turtle, waterfall, crater

Photo of the Week: Male Elk (Jasper, Canada)

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This lone male elk, resplendent with its fine antlers, contentedly munches juicy grasses. Grazing on the verge of the main highway just outside the stunning Rockies town of Jasper, little traffic probably interrupts this elk in the early hours (one of the best times to see wildlife). While initially a little suspicious of me as shown in this photo, he soon returns to his feeding relaxed that I was harmless, simply snapping a few photos from the other side of the main road.

Jasper Vacations

Photo of the Week: Cruise Ship Peak Hour (Juneau, Alaska)

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Inaccessible by road, Juneau is nestled along the beautiful Gastineau Channel underneath towering mountains. Inundated with cruise ships in the summer months, large vessels carefully jockey for position in the narrow channel as viewed from the magnificent vantage point on Mt Roberts. Juneau has some superb natural sights and wildlife including Mendenhall Glacier that carves its way through the mountains only a few miles outside Alaska's capital.

Photo of the Week: North End of South Facing Deer (Banff, Canada)

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Two mule deer seem oblivious to the majesty of the Rockies, the shimmering blue of Two Jack Lake (and the camera) just outside Banff in the Canadian Rockies.

Sights of the USA – East to West Rail Tours

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guest post by Titan HiTours

A vibrant labyrinth of culture and colour, New York is the ideal location to begin the epic adventure of coast-to-coast rail tours. When you’re done shopping along Fifth Avenue and taking a cosmopolitan stroll through Central Park, view the cityscape from the towering heights of the Empire State Building (where Tom Hanks or King Kong may be waiting, depending on your luck). Look out upon the USA’s inspiring symbol of freedom, the Statue of Liberty, and contemplate the journey of discovery to come.

If architectural splendour is your thing then you’ll find plenty of it in the nation’s capital, Washington DC, a living monument to historic and contemporary America. Home to the Senate and the House of Representatives, discover where all the biggest decisions are made and soak up the power with a tour of the Whitehouse. The national monuments are truly spectacular, best viewed at night when illuminated in this beautifully crafted city.

There are equally important decisions being made in the next rail-tour destination, Chicago. Hawaiian or Four seasons? Meatballs or Mozzarella? Find your own version of the best Chicago pizza after working up a hunger in the delightful grounds of Millennium Park (Anish Kapoor's famous bean-shaped sculpture might inspire your appetite) or shopping on the Magnificent Mile.

With a history of gold seekers, outlaws, buffalos and beer brewing the Wild West is very much alive in the next destination, Denver. The final resting place of Buffalo Bill, you can find out more about this colourful character (Express rider, army scout, buffalo hunter and showman), in the dedicated museum atop Lookout Mountain. Enjoy views of the snow capped Rockies in one direction, the Great Plains in the other. For another angle of history, check out the art Museum's unparalleled collection of Western and Native American art and artefacts.

Hollywood is the next stop, where dreams and drama are in plentiful abundance. Once you’ve taken ample pictures of Hollywood’s iconic sign, saunter down the Walk of Fame, where stars on the sidewalk commemorate those who have made a name for themselves in radio, television and movies. Grauman’s Chinese Theatre sits beside the famous footprints in the forecourt, a charming viewing experience from the golden age.

If you’ve ever wanted to be directly confronted by the awesome power and depth of nature then the Grand Canyon, next stop on the rail tour, is the place to do it (although Thelma and Louise style is not advised). An ancient Native American holy site, a geological wonder; the Grand Canyon is an astounding 277 miles of fiery rock and sublime depth exposing almost two billion years of the planet’s history.

Look back on your journey from the suspended beauty of the Golden Gate Bridge, a perfect end to the tour. A modern day miracle of man’s ingenuity and architectural achievement, the bridge spans two miles across the waters of San Francisco bay. Joseph B. Strauss’ lifetime masterpiece is among America's most cherished landmarks.

Photo Credits: Statue of Liberty, Buffalo Bill, Golden Gate

Drinks Around the World: Mint Julep (USA)

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I have always been tempted by the cool and refreshing tastes of mint-based drinks. This month brings us the Mint Julep, a product of the American south.

It was late in the afternoon on an oppressive day. The Louisianaians barman served in a voice like the neighbouring Mississippi River - slow, deep and muddy - and made the drink with the same slow, steady precision. The wooden bar seemed unchanged for many a decade and somehow seemed so suited to the area and the drink.

Simply muddle (softly mash) a handful of spearmint leaves with sugar and a spoonful of chilled water (the barman swore by the importance of the spoon of water). Tip into a glass, add bourbon and crushed ice and the drink is ready.

The tang of the mint makes the julep an extremely refreshing drink on a humid day while the sweetness offsets the strength of the corn whisky. The mint julep is renown as the drink of choice during America's most famouse horse race, the Kentucky Derby.

Similar in recipe to a mojito and a Brazilian caipirinho, mint leaves make a wonderful addition to many drinks and is worth trying at home as summer approaches.
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At the start of each month, Travel Wonders highlights a characteristic drink experienced on his travels. Previous Drinks Around the World include Mint Tea from Morocco, a Bloody Caesar from Canada, a Pisco Sour from South America and the Singapore Sling

Photo Credit: mint julep

Photo of the Week: Old Water Tower (Chicago, USA)

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The Chicago Water Tower was one of the very few public buildings to survive the 1871 Great Fire. It looks more like a European medieval castle, standing in sharp contrast to the towering modern edifices that dwarfs its elegant limestone symmetric structure.

Wonderful spring-time white blooms adds life to its restful nature, though Oscar Wilde reputed (and unfairly) described it as a "castellated monstrosity with pepper boxes stuck all over it".

Today it acts as a gallery though it was closed as I wandered past walking Chicago's Magnificent Mile.

Chicago Vacations

Quick Guide to Escorted Canada Holidays

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guest post by Titan HiTours

Canada is a holiday destination full of history and vibrancy. The second largest country in the world, it borders America’s northernmost states and is surrounded on either side by ocean. Every season offers something different, so it’s always an exciting place to go, and with ten states and three provinces, there’s no lack of diversity so you can plan a trip that suits your taste and preferences. Why not try an escorted tour or a cruise? That way, all the planning is done before you leave and once you’re there, all you have to do is sit back, and enjoy the holiday!

Spring

In the spring, Montreal’s Botanical Gardens and the Biodome are a must-see. The gardens offer a beautiful floral canopy inspired by the colours and fragrances of the seven continents and the site is one of the largest of its kind in the world. Coastal British Columbia is another great springtime destination; look out in particular for the cherry blossom in bloom.

Summer

Summer is fishing season so either get in on the action or just enjoy the view over one of the Great Lakes. Many Canada holidays, escorted tours and cruises will include a stop-off at one of these, and it’s the perfect photo opportunity. Banff National Park is another great rambling spot, with the town itself also a popular tour destination or, if you are an animal lover, now is the time to go whale-spotting. Churchill, Manitoba is a favourite hot-spot.

Autumn

Eastern Canada is the place to be if you want to indulge in some leaf-peeping; the autumnal colours are spectacular and the weather’s still warm enough to go for a hike or a ramble, depending on how energetic you are feeling! While the weather’s still warm, explore the city streets- try Toronto’s bustling art scene and range of bars and restaurants.

Winter

Skiing season generally tends to run from December until about April, depending on the region. Whistler is the most famous of these destinations, but there is plenty of choice. If you’ve chosen to go on a cruise, then you can glide past the impressive glaciers from the warmth of your cruise liner and survey the glittering landscape. The lakes that are picture-perfect in summer freeze over in winter, and offer a different view that is just as stunning.

Of course, it’s also all about the culture, and Canada’s diverse makeup of nationalities makes it a particularly rich place to visit; French-speaking Quebec has its own particular identity, and each region and city has its own unique flavour, which you will get to know as you stop off or drive through or stroll along. And along the way, if you are on a tour or a cruise, you will have the benefit of guided tours and audio guides, as well as the expertise of a team with local knowledge and a friendly group of like-minded travellers to share the experience with. From the Rockies to the thriving cosmopolitan cities, all times of year, Canada is a top holiday spot and not to be missed!

Photo Credits: flag, Montreal Gardens, Lake Superior, Fall Colours, Lake Louise Winter

Bellagio Glass Garden (Las Vegas, USA)

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Over 2000 glass flowers dominate the lobby ceiling of the Italianate-styled Bellagio Hotel in the ritzy excesses of Las Vegas. In the midst of the Las Vegas strip, this towering hotel features a restaurant with eleven Picasso paintings, a permanent Cirque du Soleil show and a nightly show of dancing fountains to music all funded by slot machines and gaming tables as far as the eye can see.

Whatever your impressions of Las Vegas, it is well worth a wander in the Las Vegas lobby to marvel at the superb and colourful glass-blown ceiling (titled Fiori di Como), designed by American sculptor Dale Chihuly. And check out the neighbouring internal botanical gardens with resplendent blooms, ponds, bridges and oversized artistic insects.

Las Vegas Vacations

Rivers of Grass (Everglades, Florida)

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This article is written by Travel Wonders and is kindly sponsored by Club Med Sandpiper Bay, an active all-inclusive family destination and the ideal getaway resort for your next Florida vacation.

Sandwiched between the ugly urban sprawl of Miami and the alluring beaches of Florida Keys are the exceptional Everglades. This unusual subtropical wilderness of 1.5 million acres is full of sawgrass marshes, cypress swamps, mangrove beds and shallow waters and harbours a remarkable range of birdlife, marine life and the infamous alligators.

Waters creep slowly south across Florida carrying huge amounts of grass giving an appearance of a moving unkempt lawn. Walking a couple of short path near the Royal Palm Visitors Centre, alligators abound most seemingly oblivious to folks tiptoeing awkwardly in a strange combination of apprehension, speed and fascination to not rouse these demonised creatures. A huge variety of water birds including ibises, the elegant pink roseate spoonbills with their skillet-like beaks, eagles, osprey and kites populate the area.

Further north, the Shark Valley area includes a hideous concrete walkway that provides a superb panorama of the area showcasing the unusual feel for this marshy world.

Canoeing is the best way to see the area. Slithering along the peaceful and shallow waterways among the mangroves, near the islands (can’t land on most as they are nesting sites) and through the sinister brackishness in the 10,000 Islands area shows the area at its finest. While sighting alligators only protected by a few millimetres of fibreglass is a little unnerving, the tranquility (broken only by incessant mosquitoes) after visiting Miami or Orlando is worth any discomfort.

Outside of the park, rides are available on airboats, a hovercraft with a giant fan attached to the back and remarkably manoeuvrable. Though it makes a hideous din, it buzzes along at 30 to 40 kilometres per hour, tree branches whisking past your ears and the wind tousling the hair. Slamming on the brakes (or is that turning the fan off?), the craft pulls into a grassy knoll and sure enough peering through the reeds are the beady eyes of an alligator lying peacefully in the weak afternoon sun. Many more are spotted each staking their own territory with the dedication of a medieval army.

Another alligator cruises up to the boat in their haunting whisper-quiet glide, ripples slowly falling from its eyes, the only part above the water line. This prehistoric monster so ideally evolved for its environment rides to less than a metre from the craft before it is time for “see you later, alligator” and on through further lagoons, accelerating through the shallows of the Everglades.

Take a break from the hectic theme parks of Orlando or the glitzy beach life of the Florida Keys and spend a day or two exploring the unique and tranquil wilderness of the Everglades. Though commercialised with alligator farms and airboats, try to escape for a quiet hike or peaceful canoe through this most unusual ecosystem.

This article is kindly sponsored by Club Med Sandpiper Bay. Located in sunny idyllic southern Florida, Sandpiper Bay is an all inclusive spa resort that offers tennis, golf, fitness, yoga, and fun activities for couples and families alike.

Everglades City Vacations