This Is My Idea of a Swinging Good Time!

This photo of The Hammocks at Marathon is courtesy of TripAdvisor

This photo of The Hammocks at Marathon is courtesy of TripAdvisor

The Hammocks at Marathon~

For a Hotel with hammock, head to the Florida Keys. Situated near the beach in the heart of Marathon, The Hammocks at Marathon is close to The Turtle Hospital, Pigeon Key Foundation, and Seven Mile Bridge. Also nearby are Sombrero Beach and Crane Point Museum and Nature Center.  For a dining option go to  Barnacle Barneys Tiki Bar - This beachfront restaurant serves lunch and dinner. Guests can order drinks at the bar and enjoy alfresco dining (weather permitting).

Have you ever heard of or considered Hammock Camping?


http://www.hennessyhammock.com/

Even if you don't have a Hennessy Hammock to cocoon yourself with you can still take a hammock with you on vacation. Remember not to pack your vacation so full you don't have time to kick back, swing, and relax.

Pick your remote tropical island or cool woodsy retreat and take the luxury of a hammock with you! Even if it's just for 2 or 3 nights out of your vacation itinerary, it will be a unique yet simple luxurious experience. Great for unplugging and relaxing. Take a book. Walk the beach at sunset. Or perhaps an exhilarating hike through a tropical forest leading to a swim under a cooling waterfall.

Cheap Caribbean Hot Deals

 

The picture directly above is found on the Hammock Forums gallery. Check out the link if you are interested in diving into more information about hammock camping. It is a great place to learn and ask questions plus get ideas for locations.

https://www.hammockforums.net/gallery/showimage.php?i=20389&c=11

 

Expand Your Travel Options With a Rail Europe Pass

Eurail Global Pass

Boarding a train with the Eurail Global Pass is the easiest way to travel within Europe.
Benefit from a wide network of high speed and local trains with unlimited rail travel among 24 countries. From Denmark and Finland to Spain and Portugal, from Croatia and Hungary to Italy and France, the Eurail Global Pass stays the best option to discover Europe across its culture, traditions, gastronomy and climate diversity.
The Eurail Global Pass offers you a unique experience of travel, comfort, hassle-free journeys and a wide range of destinations within Europe.

Bonuses

Benefit from bonuses in selected countries and tailor-make your tour in Europe. Hotels discount, reduced boat crossing, buses, museums... your Eurail Pass allows you a wide range of negotiated offers in 17 countries in Europe so that you will fully enjoy the journey!

Check out the Thalys also known as The Red Train

Thalys, also known as the red train connects Brussels and the Benelux with destinations in France, Germany and the Netherlands at speeds of up to 300 km/hr. In 2009 Thalys launched a new section of high-speed line, cutting journey times. Today Thalys trains cross Benelux from Paris in less than 3 and a half hours.
With frequent services – up to 23 daily returns between Paris and Brussels alone – it’s easy to add another destination to your itinerary with Thalys.
Thalys tickets are available up to three months before departure; we recommend that you book early to benefit from the best fares. While there is no check-in to board Thalys trains, reservation is required on Thalys and is included within the price of your Rail Europe ticket.

 

 

Enjoy the bar and buffet while on board.

 

 

Nice comfortable seats including a fancy loo! 

 

 

What do you want to see? Where do you want go? Europe is loaded with so many exciting sites to explore. Two of my favorites are the many ancient castles and cathedrals. Travel from small villages to all the famous large cities. Check out the Rail Europe website for prices and details. Plus they have an interactive travel map to help you plan out your own itinerary.

  

 

 

The Beautiful Island of Kauai

There are many beautiful treasures to be found in Kauai, Hawaii!

 

Download map to view a larger picture and solve the riddle of the treasure map!
Plan your own treasure hunt! Hide a special treasure for a friend or loved one to find and enjoy a special island experience. Have fun with it!

Maniniholo Dry Cave, On the North shore of the island 

Maniniholo Dry Cave (Maniniholo means "swimming Manini fish") is about 300 yards deep, and reaches to a small exit hole on the side of the mountain. The cave interior used to be larger than now, before a 1957 tsunami half-filled it with sand. To get there, go to Ha'ena Beach Park on Route 560. Look for the cave on your left.

Princeville Ranch Zipline -
Zip n' Dip Expedition with Waterfall Swim
  
Clip in and soar over Hawaii's breathtaking valleys and streams as you embark on a series of nine ziplines! Then dive into a 35-foot deep, hidden swimming hole, fed by a charming, tropical waterfall. Tour provided by Princeville Ranch Adventures. Full package costs $150. 

Na Pali Coast Luxury Sunset Dinner Sail by Captain Andy's       

Experience tropical luxury aboard Captain Andy's Southern Star and a delicious dinner sail along the island of Kauai's breathtaking South Shore. Watch the sunset and dine amid Hawaii's beauty!

The Boat: The "Southern Star" is the culmination of 25-years experience specifying and operating Hawaii charter boats. The 65-foot luxury yacht with a capacity of 49 passengers, is unlike almost any other boat in Hawaii, and features an air-conditioned indoor lounge, an outdoor lounging area complete with day beds, men's and women's restrooms with showers, and a galley and grill used to cook delicious, fresh meals.

Location: South Shore of Kauai
Departs from Port Allen Harbor in Ele'ele, South Kauai
Whale Watching! Every year Humpback Whales migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii, and although not guaranteed, they are often seen between the months of December and April.

 

 

 

Film Locations of Kauai

There’s no doubting the inspiring scenic beauty of Hawaii’s Island of Discovery. But did you know dozens of filmmakers were inspired by Kauai’s beauty as well? For decades movies and television shows have used Kauai as the stunning backdrop for their epic stories, from “South Pacific” to "Raiders of the Lost Ark" to “Jurassic Park.” Take a movie tour to learn about the more than 60 feature films shot on location in Kauai or you can discover them for yourself and make your own movie moments:  For a list visit  http://www.gohawaii.com/kauai/guidebook/topics/kauai-film-locations

 

 

Wailua Falls, Kauai

Wailua Falls, just north of Lihue, is a step off the beaten path. Located at the south end of the Wailua River, it cascades into two streams, dropping 80-feet below. Some even say the distance is more accurately described as 200 feet. 

                         

 

 

Exploring Piedmont in Northwestern Italy

Turin or Torino
The capital of the Piedmont Region, has much to offer to the traveler, from its Baroque cafes and architecture to its elegant shops and museums, which include the famed Egyptian Museum and the Shroud of Turin. Just outside Torino, you can visit the beautiful Baroque Savoy Palace and gardens at La Venaria Reale.

Piedmont wine country

Palazzo Madama, Piazza Castello. Recently re-opened after a long refurbishment, it is attracting many tourists. It was home of the Queen, and is a mix of medieval and baroque rooms. There's a room with red sofas to take a rest after the visit, with a magnificient chandelier, and a cafeteria in one of the rooms. Contains plenty of art depicting Christ in various stages of life (and death) and some fascinating scenes of life in Torino in times gone by.

The Palazzo Madama

River Po Park, part of the longest river of Italy is protected as a natural park. Its benches are full of interesting and unexpected views onwards the town and the hill and are enriched by the Castle of Valentino, Medieval Burgh and Gran Madre church, which mirror on river Po. Enjoy a scenic boat tour down the river as well.

The Park on the River Po

Valentino Park, the biggest park in Turin central area. This park is situated along the Po river and in its area you can find the Valentino Castle, and the Medieval Village.

Valentino Castle at night

Where to Stay,
The Hotel Giotto Torino~ Hotel Giotto is a recently restored three-star hotel located in a residential area close to the river Po and just a short walk from the famous Valentino Park and to the romantic area of the 'Borgo Medievale', Valentino Castle seat of the University of Architecture,  as well as Torino Esposizioni Congress and Fair Centre.

Within walking distance:
     •    Torino Esposizioni Venue
    •    Teatro Nuovo, Ice skating Palace
    •    Valentino Park: Botanical Garden
    •    Borgo Medievale
    •    Promotrice Belle Arti
    •    University of Architecture
    •    University of Medicine, Pharmacy
    •    Molinette Medical Centre

http://www.hotelgiottotorino.com

Adventure just an hour or so from Torino

The Tibetan Bridge in Claviere, Piedmont, Italy
Experience the thrill of walking the longest Tibetan Bridge in the world suspended for 468 meters between the towns of Claviere and Cesana Torinese over the San Gervasio Gorge in Italy. Do you dare?

 

 

Where's it at?

 

Rio Secreto and Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Rio Secreto~A Nature Reserve that’ll take your breath away

The discovery of Río Secreto, previously known as Pool Tunich, has brought much excitement to Quintana Roo.  This system of caves, formed over centuries by an underground river, is located only a few miles from Playa del Carmen. It is by far the longest partially flooded cave in the Yucatan Peninsula, but what makes Río Secreto even more special is the fact that it is semi-sunken.  Most caves found in the Yucatan are underwater, and if you want to explore them, you must receive specialized training in cave diving. That requires lots of practice and study, as well as a hefty investment in diver certification and dive gear. Río Secreto has more than 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) of semi-sunken cave mapped out with 15 natural outlets located in different areas. There’s nothing else like it!

 

"Río Secreto is the new ecological inspiration of our region. It has recently been designated as one of Mexico’s most distinct and alluring nature reserves, and this unique destination is quickly becoming the pride of all Mexicans.  

Visitors often feel transformed by their journey deep inside Río Secreto. It’s a rare and exotic opportunity to admire the unequaled beauty of our beloved Mexico and Mother Earth. A journey through Río Secreto is surreal, mystical and memorable. Whether you’re an adventurer, world traveler, or simply a curious soul, we welcome you to experience one of the most intriguing natural attractions in the Riviera Maya. " ~Rio Secreto

Río Secreto is an underground river system located approximately 5 Kilometers (3 miles) southwest of Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo. The caves are easily accessible via Cancun-Tulum Highway 307 Km 283.5.

Most tours of Río Secreto include transportation from Cancun and the Riviera Maya, but you can also find it via public transportation, taxi or car. The entrance to Río Secreto is conveniently right next to the highway. 

Contact info:  http://www.riosecreto.com.  Mex 01-800-681-6713    USA/CA (888)-844-5010

Tour Hours: Daily at 9:00 a.m. | 10:00 a.m. | 12:00 p.m. | 13:00 p.m. | 14:00 p.m
Price:  Adults: $69.00 USD Children: $34.50 USD (4 to 11 Years Old)
Duration: 3 ½ hours

Playa del Carmen


Puerto Aventuras lies about 20 minutes south of Playa. This planned development has a marina, where you can swim with dolphins or rent a fishing boat. The marina is surrounded by shops and restaurants. Puerto Aventuras also has a 9-hole golf course. There's a free museum, CEDAM (Club de Exploraciones y Deportes Acuáticos de México), which displays items found on shipwrecks along the coast. These waters have sunk many ships over the centuries .

Mayan Ruins The Yucatan peninsula is unique for its many Mayan ruins. They are all over the place. There actually some in the town of Playa del Carmen and in Playacar. One can be found on Quinta Avenida, between Calles 12 and 14, another one inside the gates of the budget hostel/camping ground La Ruina on Calle 2 by the beach and yet another one in Playacar. These small coastal outposts are hints of the grand scale of the prolific and ancient Maya world. Many of the most amazing sites are near Playa, including Chichén Itzá, Cobá and Tulum. Do try and visit at least one of them.

Fun Places to Stay

La Tortuga Hotel & Spa
A boutique style adult-only hotel in Playa del Carmen, with its unique oasis design and built especially for romance and relaxation where exclusivity is felt right down to the smallest details. They have 51 rooms and some of them are even swim up rooms!
10th Avenue between 12th and 14th Street North - Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico 77710
Toll-free number:1-866-550-6878 (Usa and Canada)http://www.hotellatortuga.com/

2 floors Cabana~Home Rental
The property is a green piece of tropical vegetation located in the best spot of Playa del Carmen in the 38th street between the famous 5th avenue and the beach (shangri-la). One of the cool features is a very amazing private outdoor bathroom with hot water, made of wood, plants and river stones, which becomes just magic at night. The roof is palapa and cement walls. Also on property:
- pool.
- professional massages
- "Regina" mexican restaurant serving authentic meals from the region
Prices start from $80 a night. https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/299719

 

Where's it at?

 

Costa Rican Tree House

Will that be the Frog or the Monkey? Or perhaps the Sloth or the Toucan?

These are just a few of the names for some of the tree houses you can stay in while exploring luscious Costa Rica. They are located in Santa Clara, San Carlos, Costa Rica. Only 2 hours from San Jose and you will be immersed in the jungle ready to relax and explore.

 

"We have six tree houses (each very private) on 10 acres and we are surrounded by a 70-acre wildlife refuge with a waterfall, pools to swim and a beautiful river....Lots of birds and wildlife on the property. A full and delicious breakfast is served each morning in our rancho. We offer a night hike with Rolando free of charge and it's a great time.

The Toucan, Sloth and Frog tree houses are all private and very cozy with a loft for the kids or adventurous adults. The Monkey and Hummingbird tree houses are both private with one level and much larger. The Yiguirro tree house is our most luxurious and private tree house. All tree houses offer rustic yet comfortable accommodations. Each tree house has air conditioning, warm-water showers, a refrigerator, safe and a large deck to relax and enjoy the rain forest. All accommodations are on the same property and are within a short walk of one another." ~Tree Houses Hotel Costa Rica.

 

 

Rates are $98 to $140 + tax a night for double occupancy.

Tree House Rates Include:

A full delicious breakfast, juice and all the Costa Rican coffee you can drink. Full access to our 70-acre wildlife refuge with waterfall and dipping pools. Help with setting up adventure tours and ideas for things to do off the beaten path. Safe parking right at your tree house. Driving directions to your next location.

There is a lot to do while in Costa Rica. There is a Safari Float by Canoe or Kayak, Venado Cave tour, hike rain forest trails to Rio Celeste Waterfall, Volcano hikes, visit a wild animal rescue center Proyecto Asis, hike the Hanging Bridges, go Zip lining through jungle canopies, and join a guide for a hike at Lake Arenal for an amazing display of tropical birds. All within close proximity to your tree house!
http://treehouseshotelcostarica.com