Thursday, August 30, 2012

Latin America Travel: Adventure in the Galapagos Islands



The Galapagos Islands are known for their diverse array of wildlife from penguins to a giant tortoise population, travelers come from all over the world to explore the islands. However wildlife is not the only draw these islands hold, adventure enthusiasts can partake in a variety of activities on the islands. From biking and hiking to kayaking and snorkeling, the Galapagos Islands are the perfect destination for adventure seekers.

The Galapagos Islands are an archipelago of volcanic isles providing a diverse array of terrain; there are four ecosystems that exist in the Galapagos. This diversity provides great opportunity for catching views of wildlife while doing one of the many adventure activities available.

On your trip to the Galapagos Islands visit the central island of Santa Cruz, the most developed and visited of the islands, it provides great adventure expeditions. Travel to Los Gemelos (The Twins) which are two gigantic collapsed lava chambers where you can explore the natural lava tunnels where lava once flowed. A bike ride is another great way to explore the island, start in El Chato the island's main town and take the 12 mile ride to Puerto Ayoray. On your ride you will encounter some of the island's wildlife while experiencing its beautiful scenery. Another great adventure on the island of Santa Cruz is a kayaking tour. Take the route from Academy Bay to Punta Estrada, which is known for its amazing scenery. Your tour will allow you to catch a glimpse of Galapagos sharks, manta rays, and tropical fish.

Head to the nearby island of Floreana where volcano erosion has created lush landscapes and is home to luxuriant wildlife; take a panga ride just off the shore to view some of the stunning seaside views. The island of Floreana is also famous for the Devil's Crown, a snorkeler's dream. A volcano submerged under water the Devil's crown provides a diverse selection of wildlife to explore from hammerhead sharks and tiger snake eels to tortoises and sea lions. Travelers can also hike on the island; many take the route up the Cerro Pajas or Bird Hill, where many finches call their home. The Cerro Pajas offers spectacular views of the island and sea.

Another great island to explore, Isabela provides great volcanic scenery. Hike the Sierra Negra Volcano which has a spectacular four-mile crater and then continue on to the Volcano Chico; a more difficult hike as it is mostly across sloping lava fields. Isabel Island is also a great place to explore the water, many travelers snorkel off the shores of this island. Take a bike ride on the island along Long Beach, a 1.8 mile stretch of white sand palm-lined beach. This path will lead you to the National Park, where you can continue to explore the wonders of the island.

It doesn't matter what island you travel to on your Galapagos vacation, adventure and spectacular scenery await you. Take a snorkeling or diving adventure or stick to the land with bike rides and hikes, either way explore the beauty of the Galapagos Islands.

This article about adventure activities for your Galapagos vacation was written by a travel expert at Latin America For Less who specializes in helping you organize best value Galapagos tours and fully customizable Latin America vacations.

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Islands of Adventure Entertaining Shows



Universal Studios Islands of Adventure offers some of the best shows that you can find. Here are some of the most entertaining attractions that the family can enjoy.

The Eight Voyages of Sinbad Stunt Show - It 's a stunt show like no other. One of the most famous sailor has come to life in this high octane stunt show that knocks you off your feet. Join Sindbad and his sidekick Kabob as they attempt to save the lovely Princess Amoura from the wicked witch Miseria. The show includes some awesome stunts like a high risk water plunge, pyrotechnics, and well choreographed battle scenes with heroes and some of Miseria's minions. Even the grotto setting complete with shipwrecks creates a backdrop like no other.

Poseidon's Fury - The god of the waters takes you to his temple as an archeologist from the Global Discovery group guides you deeper into this baffling temple. The special effects included in this show creates that fascinating battle scene between two titans Poseidon and Lord Darkenon. From this clash it is a matter of survival of whether you make it back to normal life or not.

Oh the Stories You Will Hear - Your favorite Dr. Seuss characters come to life as they perform stories, tell poems to their audience. The famous characters such as Sam of Green Eggs and Ham, The Cat in the Hat with Thing One and Thing two and The Grinch provides the kids with some laughter and joy. At the end make sure to get your photo taken and get some autographs too.

The Mystic Fountain - This attraction entertains any passers-by that are in the area. It either gives you jokes, games and music and talks to anyone who comes near. Just watch out as it might get a wet surprise for not answering its riddles. You can even throw coins in the fountain and your wish might come true.

Character Meet and Greet with the Marvel Super Heroes - Of course your favorite superheroes have their own time to spend with their fans. Characters from the X Men, Captain America and Spider-man are there to have their pictures taken with them and sign autographs.

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Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Islands of Adventure: Dragon Challenge

The Dragon Challenge

You'll take part in this adventure while you explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, at Universal Studios' Islands of Adventure. The thrills you'll experience during this adventure won't be easily forgotten!

The challenge waits for you in the deepest, darkest part of the castle. The walkway leading you to the castle is adorned with banners announcing the Triwizard Tournament, as well as banners representing the four contestants.

You'll be greeted by Weasly's crashed flying Ford Anglia - still running. Still honking.

You'll also pass by Hagrid's Hut and the Champion's tent.

Then you'll make way into the dark passageways of the castle. When you're in the castle, you can't miss the Goblet of Fire trophy displayed high on a mantle.

You'll move on from there, beginning your trip through drafty, dimly lit passages. Look above you and check out illuminated floating candles.

But your exploration won't end at magical floating candles.

Continue further into more long, dark, narrow tunnels, and watch out for a large, cracked wooden door. If you listen closely, you'll hear something behind it.

It'll sound like growling from a large beast. It is growling from a large beast.

If you wait long enough, the dragons behind the door will sense you're there and lash out at the door trying to get through.

At the other end of tunnels, you'll arrive at the tent where the Dragon challenge is waiting for you.

Ahead, you will see the boarding area where you will face the really thrilling part of this challenge!

You'll have to choose which dragon you want to conquer: the Chinese Fireball or the Hungarian Horntail. Above you, in the star-lit sky, you'll see silhouettes of giant, winged creatures flying overhead.

It's time to face the Dragon Challenge!

Dragon challenge is an inverted duel roller coaster- the only one in the world!

It is made up of two tracks.

The Chinese Fireball and Hungarian Horntail navigate two different tracks and offer two complete different and exciting rides. The Chinese Fireball can go up to 60 miles per hour, while Hungarian Horntail runs at top speed of 55 mph.

Although the Chinese Fireball is faster, the Hungarian Horntail has more loops and twists. Both rides last for two minutes and 25 seconds and include five inversions each.

A huge surprise you'll experience on this attraction is the near-misses where you'll within inches from walls, land, and riders on the other coaster.

Experience this attraction. Take the excitement and the memories home with you!