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There are a large number of weekend breaks near Mumbai. People of Mumbai when exhausted with the chaotic and stressful life of this metropolitan city rush to such spots to remove the pressures of life. Otherwise also the people of Mumbai are very fun loving and they do not miss an opportunity to take a break from this kind of hectic lifestyle.
Dapoli
Also famous as “Mini Mahabaleshwar”, Dapoli is an enjoyable and pleasing city positioned about 800 feet higher than sea level. Attributed with being house to hills and a beaches, the picturesque shoreline of Dapoli is dwelling to a number of of Konkan’s best beaches. With golden sands and apparent waters it’s sanctified with rich natural beauty. Unharmed and untouched by the present pollution, nature admirers can pamper themselves by exploring hiking trails close by.
Suvarnadurg Fort and Kanakdurg Fort: Positioned at 17 kms from Dapoli at Harne, are two forts, Kanakdurg, the land fort and Suvarnadurga, the sea fort. Arrange with a local fisherman to take you around to these forts. Also move out  to see the lighthouse within Kanakdurga.
Karde (Murud) beach: A fabulous and an amazing beach with crystal clear blue waters, this is one of the most excellent beaches on the Konkan coast. There are number of good quality hotels and resorts alongside the beach. They are matching the world class standards and offer excellent  hospitality to the guests over here.
Panhalekaji Caves: These 29 caves are to be found a short drive away from Dapoli. Positioned deep in green and flourishing valleys at a union between ‘Kotjai’ and ‘Dhakti’ rivers, you can find yourself in the middle of rich wildlife. Numerous sculptures with fine-looking and gorgeous carvings are also found here.
Unhavare (Hot Water Springs): In Unhavare Village there are natural hot springs which are positioned 20Km from Mumbai Dapoli. Supposed to have amazing and incredible powers, a dip here is assumed to heal your skin diseases.
Keshavraj and Vyaghreshwar: The Shrines of Keshavraj and Vyaghreshwar positioned at Asud in close proximity to Dapoli are also wonderful and splendid tourism options. Located on a hill close to the village, one has to amble through wooded land to arrive at the temple. You can also unearth some of the most stunning selection of flora and fauna with wild cacti, attractive butterflies, and thick plantations of coconut and beetle nut trees.All these places perhaps give you some most wonderful unforgettable moments to cherish.

Author is an associate editor for Cheap Weekend Breaks. Get all possible information about Weekend Breaks Delhi and Romantic Weekend Breaks. We also provide information about online hotel reservation, Holiday Packages and Flights Booking in India.

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The stunning getaways from Mumbai, Lonavala & Khandala do not require any introduction. Unquestionably the most preferred with the Bollywood filmmakers and localities of Mumbai alike, Lonavala is also recognized as the gem of the Sahayadri Hills. Positioned in the Mumbai-Pune Highway, approximately 5 kms at a distance from each other, these look-alike hill stations are most excellent in the rainy season, when they throw on the best shadow of sea green. Stroll through mist covered places, stopover and see gleaming waterfalls, feel the freshness of the soggy earth and there is no dearth of picturesque enchantment.
Ryewood Park: A honeymooner’s paradise Ryewood Park is a patch full of tall trees and abundant of places for picnics. It also has a Shiva Temple inside it. Right across the park is an older Christian Cemetery, which has gravestones over a centaury old. On the other hand, most of the ornamentation from attractive gravestones have been taken away or stolen.

Forts: For a daring and an audacious outing, there are more than a few forts that mark the scenery of Lonavala.  The most well-liked one is the Lohagad Fort that is so named because it was well thought-out to be unassailable. When mountaineering towards it, it also has numerous caves left behind by Buddhist monks and a dargah constructed by one of the Mughal rulers. The Visapur fortress is to be found opposite Lohagad and is an also a very large one. It has quite a few water tanks, small ponds and other remains left by previous tribal chiefs. An additional fort situated closely is the Tikona Fort that has a very old Buddhist Cave and a few water tanks.
Lakes: Lonavala has great number of small lakes crosswise its landscape. Tungarli Lake, which is most, visited throughout and after the monsoon, maintains deep waters till January, but by March the lake is parched dry. The Pawna Lake, Lonavala Lake and Valvan Lake provide stunning sights and are admired places for picnics.
Caves: This particular hill station Lonavala was the location of Buddhist habitation for fairly long time. This is the reason you will visualize ineffaceable marks left behind by monks. One of the caves which are frequently visited is the Karla Caves, which is mainly noted for its rock-cut architecture and the twin rows of ornamented pillars near the main hall. Placed opposite the Karla Caves is the Bhaja Caves, whose rock-cut architecture is superior to the Karla Caves.
Fishing: Lonavala is an adventurer’s amusement and early morning is the unsurpassed time to watch anglers at work! Although fishing equipment might be obtainable here, it would be sensible to come geared up with your own you’re your own gear.

Author is an associate editor for Cheap Weekend Breaks. Get all possible information about Weekend Breaks Delhi and Romantic Weekend Breaks. We also provide information about online hotel reservation, Holiday Packages and Flights Booking in India.

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Buses are one of the major means of traveling from place to place. While some prefer to use railroads, most people prefer to travel by bus. Buses can be owned by either the government or an individual agency and they are used by a large amount of people to get to and from their destinations.

Buses are popularly used for the sake of tourism. Meanwhile, firms that provide tours as well as travel services also use buses. Getting a ticket for a bus involves going to the company that provides the bus service and book and ticket manually. However, with the drastic changes that technology has witnessed, you can now get your bus tickets online. I believe this is a more comfortable means of getting tickets.

Nowadays, the internet can help you do virtually anything ranging from getting bus tickets online or lots more. The internet has also advance due to the emergence of getting these tickets online. With this method, tickets can be booked from any part of the world at any time of the day – depending on what you requirements are.

You no longer have to wait in a never-ending queue at the various bus stations. As long as you can get access to the internet, finding a website or travel agency from which to get bus tickets online is not a problem. More so, these travel agency or travel firms are setting up websites that will provide their customer with this service.

Getting bus tickets online is a good way to save time and money. All you need do is log onto the homepage and fill out a form. There are various needs and options to choose from when you are booking for a bus ticket online. All there is for you to know are well spelt out in the form. Paying for the tickets involves using your credit cards. If you ever change your mind, you can always cancel your ticket. There are numerous travel firms that can offer you good services according to your needs. And they can readily be found on the internet. These firms provide discounts and offers on some peculiar packages.

There are varying facilities that come with getting bus tickets online. Some of them include getting general buses, deluxe, express, air-conditioned and private buses. Additionally, you can get these tickets online to just any destination of your choice. All these information and many more can be seen on the internet. Therefore, it is imperative that you get your bus ticket online now.

Travelyaari is an online bus tickets service provider. It is the only fully online bus ticket reservation, Cheap bus tickets Online bus booking system in India. It has the largest bus ticket inventory for more than 1000 routes in India. View bus seating arrangement before you book.

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Turkey – a country of contrasts and symbiosis between the ‘modern’ and the tradition, the country bridging the East and the West for several centuries, the country of rich history and culture, great hospitality and variety of regions and climate. There are several reasons to visit and for those who have already been, this brief synopsis is perhaps a reminder that it is always a good time to pack your bags and visit again! Turkey has many varied regions where the temperatures change dramatically. If you decided to holiday in Istanbul, you will experience the four seasons with hot summers and fairly cold winters. The internal parts of Turkey can be faced with very extreme temperatures, depending on the region’s altitude. The northern parts around the Black Sea are usually the coldest and the Mediterranean and the Aegean coastline in the south of the country are the most moderate.

Istanbul serves as the main hub of all international traffic into Turkey, however the regional airports of Antalya, Dalaman and Bodrum are nowadays frequented with hundreds of thousands holidaymakers seeking for summer as well as winter sun escape.

Package holidays are usually the quickest and most economical way of holidaying in Turkey. However, exploring the coast by car and public transport, and tailor made itineraries have also increased in popularity. Antalya coast offers superb good quality hotels offering the favourite all inclusive board at reasonable prices, coupled with excellent beaches and facilities including golf courses, aquaparks, modern shopping centres and restaurants. The Turquoise Coast around Dalaman woes every visitor with its mountainous backdrop and dazzling blue sea, sandy beaches and picturesque villages. No wonder the fabulous emerald green bay of Olu Deniz is the most photographed place in Turkey! And, if you are after sophistication and luxury, then head for Bodrum itself, although the surrounding coastline offers plenty of resorts ideal for the typical ‘bucket and spade’ holiday. Enjoy an al fresco meal in the Bodrum marina whilst watching the magnificently lit up Bodrum castle. There are watersports galore on every bit of the Turkish coastline offering fun for everyone.

For those who enjoy a bit of seclusion and holiday with a difference, we recommend visiting places like Dalyan with its green fertile delta, or the gorgeous Patara beach ideal for divers and animal lovers. The ‘forgotten’ villages of Yaliciftlik, Bardakci, Akyaka or Selimiye will provide everyone with a peaceful stay and a great insight into traditional Turkish life and local hospitality.

Gulet cruises are another way of exploring the wonderful Turkish coastline. Spend time on board a typical Turkish boat with a designed itinerary and staff looking after you round the clock. Enjoy the close company of friends, fabulous hospitality and views from the boat and at night, experience the most romantic meals under the stars. There are several itineraries to choose from, so whether you decide to go on a shorter or a longer trip, there is something for everyone.

Food in Turkey is another good reason to visit and it varies from region to region. Generally, everywhere you go in Turkey, you will be able to taste the typical ‘meze’ consisting of hot and cold bite size meals, tasty fish, salads and fresh vegetables. Going to Turkey wouldn’t be the same without tasting the kebab (beef, chicken or lamb on skewers) or the lovely ‘lahmacun’ or ‘pide’ (Turkish pizza with meat and vegetables). Desserts mainly consist of the delicious moist pistachio or walnut baklava and traditional Turkish coffee. Smoking a ‘nargile’ (flavoured tobacco water pipe) whilst playing backgammon will definitely enhance your cultural experience.

Visit the great historical sights including Ayia Sofia, the Blue Mosque, Aspendos theatre, the ancient city of Olympos or Troy, Ephesus or Konya and many others. Do not miss out on the natural wonders like UNESCO World Heritage registered Cappadocia or Pamukkale with unique displays of fairy chimneys and the cotton like bubbling hot mineral spas.

Turkey is a great country to visit in every season and the reasons are many. If you would like any help with choosing the right holiday for you or any advice on cheap package holidays, itineraries or excursion options, do not hesitate to contact our experienced and well trained staff at packyourbags.com. Turkey has been our speciality for many years now and we will be more than happy to count you amongst our many satisfied customers.

Booking a cheap holiday is not always easy – you need to know where to begin! At packyourbags we specialise in finding the very best cheap holidays from around the world, to suit any budget.

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Rolling hills and winding paths take you through a huge slice of Virginia’s history with many notable and famous people laid to rest in this beautiful sprawling cemetery on the banks of the James River. Two U.S. Presidents are buried here, President’s James Tyler (10th President) and John Monroe (5th President); Hollywood Cemetery is also the final resting place of Jefferson Davis, the only President of the Confederate States.

Hollywood Cemetery also has 25 Confederate Generals buried here, more than any other cemetery in the country, and includes J.E.B. Stuart, the famed cavalry commander and George Pickett, who’s ill-fated charge at Gettysburg proved a turning point in the battle and the Civil War.

The cemetery was established in 1869 on land known as Harvie’s Woods, once owned by William Byrd II, the founder of Richmond and who established the Byrd dynasty which is integrally entwined with the history of Virginia through to today.

Hollywood Cemetery was named for the holly trees which covering the hilly land and which have been used to create the rural garden style for which the cemetery is known.

When the cemetery was laid out in 1869, a granite pyramid was built to commemorate the 18,000 enlisted soldiers of the Confederate Army which are interred in the grounds.

The gothic architecture adds to the atmospheric ambience of this stunning necropolis, which is also one of Richmond’s top tourist attractions. It is not simply dead presidents and generals who inhabit the cemetery; Hollywood Cemetery is also home to the Richmond Vampire, the most famous of the urban legends which have been spawned by this famous graveyard.

The Richmond Vampire is a blood-covered creature with jagged fangs and skin hanging from its mouth, so the oral history would have us believe, but there is a more horrific grain of truth in this tale. In 1925, a railroad tunnel collapsed at Church Hill just outside Richmond and several workmen were buried alive in the disaster. One managed to escape, Benjamin Mosby who had been working as a railroad fireman and was loading coal in an engine when the collapse occurred. The falling earthworks ruptured the steam engine leaving Mosby with horrible scalding burns such that his skin was literally falling off his body. He died later at Grace Hospital, but the shock of the image has led to it being retold over the years, evolving into the myth of the Richmond Vampire.

To underline the historical significance of Hollywood Cemetery, it was listed in the National Register of Historic Places which contains those places which are worthy of preservation. Strolling through the gardens, replete with statues and monuments, is to take a step back through time to the foundation of the country and the greatest event to shake the country to its foundations. Hollywood Cemetery is open to the public between 8.00am and 5.00pm (until 6.00pm during Daylight Saving Time) and there are a series of historical walking tours focusing on the history of Hollywood Cemetery and some of the famous personalities buried there (only available between April to October).

Shell Harris is the President of Big Oak SEO, a Richmond Search Engine Optimization Company. Not a native of Richmond, Shell moved to the capital of Virginia many years ago and invites everyone to visit Richmond VA and see the many things the south has to offer.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/going-hollywood-cemetery-in-richmond-virginia-1655044.html

Maui is one of the most popular Hawaiian islands for travelers and tourists. When you are planning a family reunion and are looking for something a little more exciting and relaxing than a potluck at the local park, family reunions on Maui can prove to be exactly what you’ve been looking for.

There is plenty to see and do while on the island. Of all the islands, Maui, in particular, is home to small town charm and has been rated as the “best island” in the World by Conde Nast Traveler for the 15th time.

Maui is known as a tourist destination. It is home to Haleakala, the world’s largest dormant volcano. Sunrise on the rim of this volcano is a sight to behold for anyone traveling to the island of Maui. When you venture to the 9,400 foot rim of the volcano, you will enjoy being in one of the most beautiful settings that you’ve ever seen. Once the sunrise is over, you can take a hike, horseback tour or even a bicycle ride down into the crater of the volcano, making a great day of the entire experience.

Whale watching is another popular tourist attraction on Maui, and tours leave daily from Lahaina, which is one of the most charming and popular cities on the island. You can also see and learn more about the whales of Hawaii by exploring Whaler’s Village, where you can enjoy shopping, restaurants, and a good time.

Maui also has the Maui Ocean Center, which is also known as the Hawaiian Aquarium. There is also a snorkeling and diving experience at Molokini, which is a volcano crater that barely peeks out of the ocean and plunges hundreds of feet under the water, creating a paradise of sorts for divers and snorkelers.

Nature lovers will delight in a hiking tour of Maui’s rainforests and secluded waterfalls, going where no car or truck could venture. An experienced guide can teach you about various plants and animals of the region as well as local culture and history, and you can choose between half or full day hikes.

The wine enthusiasts in your family might enjoy the Tedeschi Winery in Maui’s “upcountry,” 2000 feet above sea level. Having a picnic on the beautiful winery grounds is a popular activity, and of course, they offer many samples of their wine, including a uniquely delicious pineapple wine.

If you choose to go island hopping, you can usually plan 1-2 days to travel to and from each island, which can be done by charter boat or by small aircraft, depending on which you prefer.

There are a variety of lodgings to choose from on Maui, including luxurious beachfront mega-resorts, smaller inns or bed and breakfasts, or private vacation rental homes. Whether you want your family reunions on Maui to have a luxurious feel or a more private experience with condos and rental homes, you can choose from many great accommodations. Affordable Hawaii vacations are possible, so long as you take the time to see what’s out there.

Maui Vacation Condo Rentals providing visitors and residents with the best Maui Vacation Condo Rentals, Real Estate Sales, Property Management Services, Activities, and Car Rentals, for over 20 years. This article powered by SEO 2.0 ServicesArticle Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/plan-your-next-family-reunion-on-the-island-of-maui-1654359.html

Vacationing in Sea Isle City, New Jersey is a popular choice among travelers. There is plenty to see and do in this small oceanside town, which has been voted one of the best beaches on the Eastern Seaboard for vacations.

Sea Isle City provides a perfect destination for anyone looking for a great beach vacation on the East Coast. There are a variety of annual events and unique activities that are planned specifically for tourists and visitors to the area. The attractions and activities are sure to offer something for everyone.

This city is a fisherman’s paradise, attracting thousands of anglers to the area each year. Fluke and bluefish fishing is a popular draw. Some vessels leave from Sea Isle for overnight or multiple-day big game fishing trips on the Atlantic Shelf. Excellent recreational fishing as well as sunset boat charters are readily available from both Sea Isle City and nearby Ocean City.

The summer months are the most popular for tourists to this beachfront city, but this isn’t the only season when the town is enjoyable. Tourists can visit many of the shops, restaurants, and other sights on the boardwalk and promenade year-round, where there is a variety of local stores and cuisine that is sure to please just about anyone. In February, the city is also host to the infamous Polar Bear Plunge.

Sea Isle City’s myriad of spring events include the Ocean Drive Marathon in March, the annual surf fishing tournament in May and the sand sculpting demonstration in June. Live music is offered from spring through fall.

July and August are the most popular months for tourism on the New Jersey seaboard. From the weekly “Movies Under the Stars” shows to the rugby tournament, the Phillies Home Run Derby, and the Fourth of July fireworks over the ocean, there will be plenty for people to see and do in July. In August, the city features more movie nights, flea markets, family night dance parties every week, and a continued abundance of live music events.

Fall brings plenty to do as well, with the Irish Festival and sand sculpting activities in September. October in Sea Isle City features Harborfest, a variety of fundraisers and charity events, the Italian Festival and a surfing competition that is held annually.

Finally, Sea Isle City hosts charming traditional holiday celebrations that benefit from its small town atmosphere. From the Halloween parade and costume contest to the tree lighting ceremony and Santa events for Christmas, there is something for everyone during the holidays in Sea Isle City.

When you’re in town and looking for something to do, you can always head down to the promenade on JFK Boulevard to find out what the planned events are for the day. Unless there is a clearly stated venue for an activity or event that you find on your vacation, most of the events will take place at the promenade, which is THE place to go for all the fun!

SeaIsle.net is Your Headquarters for Sea Isle City, New Jersey Summer Rentals and Real Estate for Sale, specializing in seashore condos, townhouses and single homes for rent or for sale at the Jersey Shore. Powered by SEO 2.0 ServicesArticle Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/vacationing-in-sea-isle-city-new-jersey-1654373.html

A beach bound winter getaway may seem backward, but it can also be one of the best times to hit the shore. While areas known for snow and slopes pack in the crowds, the off season at Sea Isle City, New Jersey promises a truly relaxing vacation. It’s not the usual cold-weather tourist spot, but that’s also what makes a trip to this unique community so enjoyable.

What started as a little fishing village well over 100 years ago is now one of the top resort cities on the Atlantic coast. Located in Cape May County, Sea Isle City sits on a barrier island known as Ludlam Island in South Jersey. The city itself was founded by Charles K. Landis in 1882. His dream of turning this town into “America’s Venice” didn’t quite work out, but that has not kept the city from booming in other aspects. With a population exceeding 100,000 during the summer months, this little town has become quite a hot spot on the Jersey shoreline.

Its year-round population, however, is only around 3,000. This may partly explain why Sea Isle is known for its hometown feel. Compared to the hustle and bustle of the peak season, life becomes very calm and serene during the winter months. For couples or families looking for some R & R, this change of pace proves to be very inviting.

Even though the business surrounding the shops and restaurants in the center of town dies down, the city does still offer a variety of off-season activities. Winter guests can enjoy events such as the Polar Bear Plunge every February, where tens of thousands of people willingly run into the frigid ocean water. For those not so keen on jumping into the icy-cold waves, they can participate in the Polar Bear Run / Walk for Autism the following Sunday. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Ocean Drive Marathon stand out as popular events which occur every March. Deep sea fishing is also offered year-round. Starfish Boats, located inside the city, offers trips for both adults and children.

As anyone who has ever vacationed there during the summer will attest, Sea Isle City boasts of many excellent food establishments. Fortunately, this is not lost on winter guests. Many favorite local restaurants, such as Cafe LaRosa, Mrs. Brizzles, and Valeries Place, remain open during the off-season. Many others stay open during select days of the week, so it’s good to check times before heading to dinner.

Without losing its small-town charm, Sea Isle City continues to offer reasons why it’s becoming a desirable off-season destination. City leaders have initiated several popular fall festivals, such as Harborfest, Irish Weekend, and Fall Family. Holiday celebrations, like the lighting of the Sea Isle City Christmas Tree and the House Lighting Program, also aim to make winter-time visitors feel like a part of the community. Thanks to the friendly feeling these events create, the laid-back atmosphere, and (of course!) the beautiful beaches, visitors will find that this summer resort town “peaks” in the winter as well.

SeaIsleCityRealEstate.com is New Jersey Shore Real Estate for sale and Vacation Rentals Headquarters, specializing in seashore condos, townhouses and single homes for rent or for sale. Powered by SEO 2.0 ServicesArticle Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/sea-isle-city-a-hot-winter-getaway-1654413.html

Sailfish

Sailfish are probably the most abundant fish in the waters off Costa Rica. They are generally bluish grey in color and are easily recognized by the large dorsal fin that runs the entire length of its back. Sailfish grow very fast often up to four or five feet in one year, reaching full growth at around 10 feet. They are also one of the fastest of ocean fish and can travel up to nearly 70 miles per hour. They can get to be as large as 200 pounds but are usually somewhat smaller than this. Their size and speed are what makes them a great sport fishing challenge. They can be caught year round on the Pacific coast of the country, but peak season is generally May through August.

Marlin

This is probably the sport fish that most are familiar with. It is prized because it is harder to find and hook than almost any other sport fish. Their enormous size and fighting abilities are what attracts anglers from all over the world. The world record for a non commercial catch is something like 1400 pounds. November to March is the best time to land one of these monsters in Costa Rica.

Roosterfish

Another good fighter among Costa Rica fish is the roosterfish, so named for its rather odd appearance, which is identified by their 7 large spines that sit above the dorsal fin. They are caught mainly from June through October and average about 20 pounds, but 100 pounders over four feet in length have been recorded. They are a good fighting fish as well.

Dorado

The Dorado is more commonly known as dolphin fish or mahi-mahi. These names have been adopted by most of the fishing industry so as to keep these fish separate from the more commonly recognized dolphin, which is actually a mammal. Like the sailfish, dorados also have dorsal fins running the length of their backs. They are smaller than sailfish, seldom getting to more than 25 pounds. Dorados are easily recognized by their brilliant colors. They can be green blue and golden on their backs and sides. One of the most interesting things to watch when you catch one is how it changes colors upon coming out of the water. They are popular game fish because of their fighting ability, but they are also favoured for eating in many restaurants in the area.

Wahoo

Some folks say the name for this fish comes from fishermen hollering “yahoo” when they land one of these very fast running ocean fish. They can grow up to 8 feet in length and can weigh up to 180 pounds. They can swim up to almost 50 miles per hour which puts the sport into sport fishing when you’re after them! The Wahoo has razor sharp teeth so all fishing is done with steel leaders only. Wahoo is a good eating fish as well and prized for its white flesh and delicate flavour.

So, find the best fighting fish to round out your sport fishing trip to Costa Rica.

CR Luxury Rentals is the premier choice for the discriminating traveler who expects and demands 5 star luxury and customer service, plus we offer fantastic Costa Rica condo rentals that are perfect for any type of vacation. Costa Rica Condo RentalsArticle Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/top-5-big-fish-in-costa-rica-1653780.html

Whether you’re a seasoned birder seeking the world’s top birding locations, an eco-friendly nature lover, or trying to find a way to entertain the kids, birdwatching in Costa Rica is an obvious choice. With over 890 species recorded to date, the neotropical environment boasts the greatest density of bird species of any continental American country. The jungles, rainforests, mountains, mangrove swamps, and coastlines of the country offer a rich birding experience unlike any other. You can book a guided tour or take your sweet time ambling among the vegetation to discover the birds of Costa Rica.

Resplendent Quetzal

Touted as one of the most beautiful birds in the world, the quetzal has a shimmering emerald green body, red belly, and blue back, along with a long blue and green tail, nearly twice as long as its 15-inch body. Representing freedom and wealth, the bird was the Aztecs’ and Mayas’ most sacred symbol, and the tribes often traded the quetzal’s feathers.

Quetzals call the mountainous cloud forests of Costa Rica their home, spending most of the year alone, until they mate between March and June and produce two blue eggs. They feed on fruit, especially avocados, insects and even lizards and frogs. Because the quetzal’s existence is threatened by the destruction of its habitat, Costa Rica’s protected land preserves provide habitat for the birds and give ecotourists and birdwatchers the opportunity to marvel at its magnificence.

Scarlet Macaw

The macaw is a sheer explosion of color: the plumage is mainly scarlet, with light blue tail feathers, yellow and darker blue on the wings, and dark red with metallic gold iridescence on the wing and tail flight feathers.

These birds prefer to live in the humid, evergreen forests of the tropical regions, and can live between 30 and 50 years in the wild. They eat mostly fruits and seeds and generally travel alone or in pairs. Very vocal, you will hear the distinctive loud, low-pitched, throaty squawks, squeaks, and screams of the macaw overhead.

Toucans

Costa Rica has six different toucan species found in the lowlands and tropical rainforests. Each has the hallmark bright-billed beak that it uses to forage into holes within trees and to pick fruit. The color and size of the toucan vary among the species, but all toucans like to eat fleshy fruits such as papaya, berries, and palm.

Toucans are very playful birds and provide hours of entertainment for birdwatchers as they use their bills to tussle with each other in the trees. They nest in tree holes and lay two to four eggs up to three times a year.

Hummingbirds

Currently, there are 51 species of hummingbirds in Costa Rica. These birds are often described as tiny high-speed machines. The hum they are named for is made by the beat of their wings, which move so rapidly that the human eye cannot detect it. And they can even fly backwards!

In the tropical lowlands and cool cloud forests, you can find them hovering around flowers, where they extract nectar and insects with their long, hollow tongues. Their vibrant, shimmering colors and ability to magically hover in mid-air for long periods of time, makes the hummingbird a crowd favorite.

CR Luxury Rentals is the premier choice for the discriminating traveler who expects and demands 5 star luxury and customer service, plus we offer fantastic Costa Rica condo rentals that are perfect for any type of vacation. Costa Rica Condo RentalsArticle Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/costa-rica-is-for-the-birds-1653792.html