Expertise, the Key to Successful School Sports Tours

The prospect of taking a group of young people away on school sports tours, academic tours or just plain sightseeing may fill you with more than a little apprehension. However, as long as a few ground rules are followed and your organizational skills are top notch, they can be a wonderful and educational experience for all involved.

The responsibility

Understandably, your top priority will be the safety and security of the youngsters but that will be quickly followed by the pressing need to ensure that they are fully occupied and obtaining value out of the journey. Little may be more of a recipe for difficulties than a group of children or teenagers that are challenged in terms of having something to do that interests them.

Part of helping to make that happen, involves having a clearly defined target for the trip and a very precise plan of action. One of the largest risks to the success of any such trip is when you are reduced to needing to "wing it" once there in terms of what happens.

Time and expertise

Organizing school sports tours is potentially extremely time consuming and it is far from easy. Take, for example, the hypothetical case of a trip to do some canoeing and sightseeing in France. Not only is it necessary to make all the travel arrangements, book accommodation and arrange for inter-site transport once you're there, but you'll also have to understand what local permits may be required, what insurance may be required by French law , where to book the appropriate equipment and to arrange for local instruors.

Then, if you'd also like to see some of the local history, you will need to find out where the major sights are, when they're open, when the local public holidays are (in which case some local attractions may be closed ) and so on. It's quite a task, particularly if you have not previously been responsible for organizing study or school sports tours.

Leaving it the experts

Of course, it is perfectly possible to make all the arrangements yourself if you have the time and are prepared to accept the responsibility that comes with a 'DIY' approach. However, an alternative may be to leave it to somebody else.

There are companies that specialize in travel and activity arrangements for schools, colleges and youth associations / clubs etc. They will be able to take the weight off of your shoulders and allow you to get on with your normal daily routine. In fact, if you consult with them in advance, they may actually be able to suggest a range of alternatives for your school sports tours relating to the activity or interests you and your group have.

Source by Aiden Armstrong

Las Vegas Tours: Experience Four Landscapes in One Desert

Las Vegas is known for its bright lights and tantalizing nightclubs, and not to forget the infamous 3.5 mile strip, where you can peruse Italy, Paris, and Egypt all in one place. But there's much more to Las Vegas than what most tourists know. Vegas is still a desert, and many people visit "Sin City" every year to experience the quitter and more serene side of the state. A great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the strip is to go on a Las Vegas tour.

Which Las Vegas Tour to Choose?

There are so many tours to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one you want to go on. From the Grand Canyon to the Red Rock Canyon there is a tour that everyone will enjoy. With so much diversity in the desert, you want to experience it all. The Hoover Dam, Red Rock Canyon, Mount Charleston, and the Valley of Fire are the most popular tours in Las Vegas. It's really hard to believe that these beautiful landscapes are only a few miles away from each other. They are all beautiful and distinctive, and they all have a piece of history, which makes great stories for a tour guide to tell. For example, did you know the Hoover dam is the highest concrete dam in the western hemisphere? Or that Lake Mead is the 16th largest manmade lake in the world? These are fun facts you can find out when you go on a tour in Las Vegas.

Red Rock Canyon

The Red Rock Canyon Natural conservatory is a local and tourist favorite. The beautiful crimson rocks will take your breath away. This is a great place if you love nature and wild life. Red Rock Canyon is home to over 200 mammals that include Bobcats, Mountain Lions, Coyotes, Bald Eagles and so much more. You can spot some of these animals while you're driving through the beautiful 13 mile scenic loop. Red Rock also has a myriad of hiking trails for you to explore.

Mount Charleston

Who says it does not snow in the Desert? Mount Charleston is a winter oasis for skiers and people who want to escape the desert heat. It's always 20-30 degrees cooler than Las Vegas. Mount Charleston is also a great for Hikers. You will be amazed when you discover that Mt. Charleston is full of waterfalls, forests, and wildflowers. Mt. Charleston is full of life where you may spot desert tortoise, deer, wild burros and more. It has over 200 campsites and over 160 picnic areas. Mt. Charleston is certainly a Las Vegas attraction that you do not want to pass up.

The Valley of Fire

The Valley of Fire is Nevada's First State Park. When in Vegas, visiting the Valley of Fire is a must do. Its 56,000 acres of pure beauty. You'll see the stunning formations that were formed over 150 million years ago. It's amazing what the power of nature can do, water and wind shaped the land into beautiful arches, spirals, domes, and serrated ridges. But, one of the most unique things about the Valley of Fire is how nature formed the rocks into shapes resembling beehives, ducks, people, elephants, and so much more. Some of the famous ones are Elephant Rock, Seven Sisters, and Balancing Rock.

One Las Vegas tour allows you to see it all

The beauty and diversity of all these places will make you forget that you are on a Las Vegas Tour. There are not too many tour companies in Las Vegas that offer an exclusive tour where you can see all these beautiful landscapes at once. There's one Las Vegas tour company that can take you on an 8 hour tour where you can experience all of these tours in one day. So, if you are interested in seeing the diversity of the land, you can visit this tour company and start your journey of history, beauty, and entertainment.

Source by Marilyn Irizarry

Hawaiian Submarine Tours Are An Adventure Worth Taking

Do you love sub tours, like to take challenges and experience the thrills while facing them? If you are an adventure lover and are searching for an exotic yet thrilling holiday destination, Hawaii would be a perfect place for you. You can enjoy its exotic beaches and thrilling submarine tours and end up having one of the best holidays ever.

Hawaii is full of natural richness and diverseities. You will find jungles, sand beaches, blue waters and a rich diversity of marine and animal life. A Hawaii sub tour would be a perfect way of experiencing the rich marine flora and fauna of this place. The tour also provides a unique chance of experiencing the underwater wonders for those who hate or fear scuba diving and snorkeling. The tour also proves to be a unique learning experience for kids who are fascinated by biology and marine life. It would be such an unforgettable experience that not many would forget it ever, if any.

While enjoying Hawaii, safety is always first priority along tour guides, as a result all submarines are tested against strict standards that are regulated by government organizations. These tours are extremely pleasurable as they provide the necessities for a relaxed and comfortable accommodation.

An ideal day in Hawaii would be spent doing the beach explorations in the afternoon and then getting on board a submarine and taking an underwater sub tour and exploring the marine life, ancient ruins, ocean formation built by volcanic activities. If your lucky, you may get a chance to see a couple of shipwrecks.

A sub tour will take you to depths of about 100 feet and have a look at the ocean floor. These tours generally last for 90 minutes with 45 minutes spent underwater watching the rich marine life of Hawaii dominated by corals, fishes and turtles. Sometimes, the submarine tour arranges themselves arrange for artificial reefs, sunken shipwrecks and airplanes.

These artificial reefs, many of which are built by the Japanese, are now a place to live for a number of marine species. While on submarine tour Hawaii, one of the most interesting places to visit will be the Waikiki beach. If you take an underwater submarine tour at this place, you will get to have a look at the Hawaii University's pyramids which have been built under a project concerned with constructing artificial reefs so that the tropical fishes will get a safe ground for breeding.

Oahu Island is a place of historical significance is probably the most popular Hawaiian tourist destination. A Submarine tour in Pearl Harbor's waters will give us one of the most humbling and shocking experiences of our lives. The marine waters are full of broken weapons, broken machinery and broken dreams of the yesteryears. It will make us experience the horror of 1941's Japan attack at this place which is a United States' naval base, during WW II on December 14th. This eventually led to the involvement of United States in WW II.

Here, Hawaii and submarine tours appeal to people of all generations, backgrounds and countries.

Source by Will Moore

European Bicycle Tours

Europe, with its rich culture and heritage, has been the Mecca for travelers since the earliest of times. With cities that offer mild weather and picturesque charm to the snowy Alpine slopes and immortal Mediterranean shores, Europe is an explorer? S delight.

The first bicycles were invented and used in Europe, as early as 1818 and with European colonization, the ingenious machine became popular around the world. People went around the entire continent on bicycles, exploring the diversity of the land even before the term 'bicycle tours' was invented. The practice became popular as an inexpensive and exciting alternative to road and rail travel. After nearly two centuries, the bicycle remains one of the most popular means of transport and recreation in Europe.

When people think of European bicycle tours, the first thing that they think of is the Tour de France, an amazing cycling race that transverses the entire French landscape. However, the Tour is a competitive sporting event, whereas a 'bicycle tour' is a leisure activity that generally forms, part of a guided vacation. Whether riders chosen to cycle through Europe, on their own or as part of a package vacation, planning is essential. Details such as the budget, the duration of the trip, the countries and regions all have to be charted out carefully. Riders need to acquaint themselves with the general topography, of each region as well as the local climate, and the best season, to visit a particular place. It is highly recommended that riders map out a route, and take note of all motels, lodges and B & B? S along it, to ensure that they have a place to stay, every time they wish to rest.

One of the largest impediments to a smooth European bicycle tour, are the large language variations within the region. The best way to overcome this problem is to learn a few phrases in the most popular languages, and carry an ample supply of dictionaries, maps, and directories.

Source by Steve Valentino

Healthy Bird Watching Tours

Bird watching is not only a fun hobby to participate in, but it also has many health benefits that are often overlooked by the general population. Most often when people think of healthy hobbies, they tend to think of extremely vigorous, high energy sports. However, for many, these activities can be too competitive and expensive. Bird watching offers an alternative that is relaxing, safe and comparatively inexpensive. This fun hobby can also be great for meeting new people if you join a bird watching tour. These tours are gaining a larger following, with many looking for new ways to experience this activity.

But just how can bird watching tours be good for your health, you might ask? It is believed that taking time out of a busy routine to enjoy nature, whether in the country, a nearby park, or even your own lawn, can relieve stress and mental fatigue. Purely human environments can create situations where the individual is prone to exhaustion or even aggression. Getting back to nature will help, and in a structured environment such as bird tours, it can blend this enjoyment of nature with a like-minded group of people to offer companionship and support.

The health benefits are not purely mental though. There is the additional advantage of a low-impact form of exercise that limits the effects of obesity. Bird watching tours can often involve a great deal of movement while following birds from one location to another, or moving on to find new species or individuals. This exercise provides the opportunity to enjoy nature and a new hobby, while still attending to your personal health at any age. In fact, one of the great things about these tours is that anyone can participate and benefit from the positive health effects. It is one of only a few hobbies and sports where all the family can take part, including both children and the elderly.

Bird watching tours create a social environment, led by individuals of great knowledge and expertise who can help those new to bird watching, and develop their skills in a friendly atmosphere. Many sports fail to provide this kind of support without charging extortionate amounts or requiring some form of long-term membership. To the contrary, bird watching tours often emphasise the focus on your own enjoyment and the natural environment itself, freeing your mind to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of the moment at hand.

Source by Paul Stanbury

Experience Maine with Coastal Kayaking Tours

Are you an avid kayaker? Do you love to travel? Are you searching for a way to experience sea kayaking while taking in the scenic views of the Eastern US coast? Then sea kayaking in Maine is right up your alley. Set your sites for the Maine. It has a striking coastline and waters sure to satisfy any kayaker.

Instead of arbitrarily dropping your kayak in the sea off of Maine's coast, take a moment to consider the services of Coastal Kayaking Tours. Located in Bar Harbor, Maine this outfitter provides guided sea kayaking tours. The company has been in the kayak business for over twenty years and promotes an atmosphere of fun and adventure.

Have you just started kayaking and are hesitant about paddling on the sea coast? Do not worry. Coastal Kayaking Tours provides kayak tours for kayakers of all levels. They have sunset and harbor trips as well as extended camping adventures. Looking for shooter trips? They have half day and full day trips available. Do you want to kayak with your family or are you planning a company retreat? Family and group kayaking tour packages are also offered. All kayaking levels and trip plans can be accommodated through Coastal Kayaking Tours.

Are you new to kayaking and need to purchase a kayak? Coastal Kayaking Tours sells used kayaks that are affordable and of high quality. You can also purchase other kayaking equipment such as life vests, paddles, and spray skirts.

Who runs the Coastal Kayaking Tours? Coastal Kayaking Tours employs several guides. These kayaking gurus have not only passed the Registered Maine Guide exam, but engage in extra classroom and water course training. They want to ensure a safe kayaking tour for all.

Where do the kayaking guides take you? You will paddle along Maine's gorgeous coast. They are located in Bar Harbor, Maine. This is at the mouth of Acadia National Park. Maine consist of approximately 3,000 islands to admire. Specifically, day trips paddle around Mount Desert Island. The Porcupine Islands of Frenchman's Bay and Blue Hill Bay may also be explored.

The kayaking tours sound wonderful, but many times the option to take such a vacation depends on the cost of the trip. You will find that Coastal Kayaking Tours offers affordable vacation packages. Half day tours currently run $ 45 per person, while full day tours are $ 69 per person. Two day camping trips are currently $ 249 per person. Shorter trips such as the Harbor and Sunset trips are a mere $ 36 per person.

Check out Coastal Kayaking Tours when planning your next kayaking vacation. The amazing coast of Maine awaits you. For more information on Coastal Kayaking Tours, go to their website at http://www.acadiafun.com/

Source by Monica Marty

Helicopter Tours For Your Flight Of Fancy

Most of us secretly fancy lifestyles of the rich and the famous. At least we want to have a taste of it, no matter how much we deny it. Or some of us seek thrills and adventures like James Bond, living our lives in the fast lane. Whenever we can we like to make our secret wish come true and live out our flamboyant tastes. And it's not get glitzy and glamorous than Helicopter Tours.

You can go on Helicopter Tours to mark a special occasion; your anniversary or your birthday. They are a way to show your children the high life on the day of their graduation or then just have an outlandish day out with your family.

Helicopters mean a lot of things to people; for some they signify style and elegance for others they are a sign of power. That's why you see see romantics booking a ride for two to celebrate an occasion. They are also known to be hired for corporate events by power brokers who want to make a larger than life statement.

They are an innovative way of seeing a new city. You could be in a tourist destination that's known for its panoramic views, and what better way to enjoy it than your luxury ride?

You will find special ones in different parts of the world that cater to hugely varied clientele. You can book the one of your choice and that fits within your budget, because some of them can be quite expensive.

What do Helicopter Tours have to offer?

  • They are available for various lengths of time and their costs vary accordingly. You can choose one suited for you and enjoy it to the fullest.
  • You can book a trip for yourself, for two or a group as per your requirement.
  • Most of these tours will have insurance covers and taxes included in their fares.
  • You can pre-book your seats in advance and get discounts.
  • Some of them cater to visitors so that they can enjoy views a new destination has to offer.
  • Many of these offer perk, like limousine pickups and champagne to make your experience even more special.
  • You can book these as a thought present for your loved ones.

Hop on these tours and sky's the limit for you.

Source by Preston Romeo

Options Available for Amazon Jungle Tours

There are many ways to take advantage of Amazon Jungle Tours. You may choose to combine the trips with other sightseeing expeditions depending on which country you choose to visit. The Jungle spans 9 countries and is more than 5 million square kilometers. The largest portion of it is in Brazil and this is probably why most people think of Brazil when then the Amazon Jungle is mentioned.

Countries to Visit

When taking this type of tour, there are three countries that are considered ideal for this trip. These countries are Peru, Ecuador and Brazil. Even though Brazil holds the largest portion of the rain forest, not everyone would needlessly want to go there. Brazil is the best option when you want to go deep into the Rainforest and explore everything it has to offer. They have many options for the survival jungle experience, where as a tourist you get trained on how to survive in the jungle and find your own food. There are also opportunities to interact with the remote tribes that live in that jungle. The trip may not be suitable for someone who is on a budget, but is unforgivable lifetime experience.

The Rain forest Experience

If your trip to the rain forest will also be coupled with Galapagos trips, then you will have to travel through Ecuador. You can also go to the rain forest, but it is not advisable to go independently without a guide or a group of people. There are many activities you could take part in. It is one of the best places to visit if you want to do some serious bird watching.

Some lodges located in the rain forest will also organize special hiking expeditions as well as biking and the jungle experience that is often popular with some of the tourists visiting the rain forest. Going there by bus is one of the cheapest and the most viable options. It can take between 5 and 7 hours to get to the rain forest. You should consider and independent bus tour to make the most of this and the Galapagos trips that you may have planned afterwards.

The Peruvian Amazon

Peruvian Amazon Jungle tours are great if you want to combine it with a visit to the ancient city of Machu Picchu. This is an interesting city that was built on top of a hill hundreds of years ago and remained hidden from the Spanish invaders and the rest of the civilized world until it was discovered in the 20th century. The Peruvian trip presents more diverse for trekking and visiting these archaeological sights. You may also take a train, bus or hike to the location before taking an independent bus for the Amazon jungle tours.

Source by Aaron Clarkes

Rajasthan Tours – The Essence of India Tours

The largest state of India, Rajasthan is one of the most popular tourist destinations of India. Drenched it cultural richness and royal past the state is well known for its rich culture and traditional warmth & excellent hospitality that attracts tourists to the state from all over the world. The exotic culture and tradition is the most predominant feature of the state that can be seen in everyday life and fairs and festivals of the state. Rajasthani people are very friendly and make your tours more and more pleasant. There are a lot of tourism options available in the vibrant and colorful state of Rajasthan, India.

While you will travel in Rajasthan during your India tours, you will have opportunity to enjoy a lot of tourism options. You can visit magnificent monuments, temples, and other architectural structures. You can explore wildlife parks and sanctuaries and see wildlife attractions and bird populations in their natural surroundings. You can enjoy Camel safari to explore golden dunes of the vast Thar Desert (often described as the ocean of sands) and traditional villages of Rajasthan. You can stay at heritage palace hotels and enjoy luxury tours and great traditional hospitality. You can also spend your holidays at Mount Abu – the only hill station of Rajasthan, famous for superb natural beauty, cool climate and Dilwara Jain Temples.

The capital of this exotic state is Jaipur which is fancifully described as the Pink City which provides you opportunity to visit the Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar Observatory, City Palace Complex, Amber Fort & Palace, Samode Palace, Jal Mahal, and other fascinating attractions. Each cities of Rajasthan is dotted with several monumental monuments. City Palace and Lake Palace in Udaipur, Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, Junagarh Fort in Bikaner, Golden Fort in Jaisalmer, Kumbhalgarh Fort in Kumbhalgarh, Mandawa Castle in Mandawa, Stunning Havelis in Shekhawati region, etc are also worth visiting. Exploring these forts and palaces provides an excellent Rajasthan travel and tourism experience.

Besides forts & palaces, during your Rajasthan tours as a part of India tours you will also have opportunity to explore some world known national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Ranthambhore National Park, Sariska National Park, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Desert National Park, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary, etc are some known wildlife parks and sanctuaries of Rajasthan, India. You can see wild animals and bird populations in there natural surroundings while you will explore these parks and sanctuaries on your tours.

If you want to enjoy tours in luxurious way, there are several palatial heritage palace hotels in this vibrant and colorful state. Samode Palace, Lake Palace, Umaid Bhawan Palace, etc are some world known heritage palace hotels in the state which are equipped with all the modern amenities but have been maintained their old warm charm and great tradition of hospitality. Besides these, there are many more in Rajasthan, you will only observe and enjoy them when you will travel in this royal Indian state – Rajasthan. Exploring Rajasthan provides true essence of India tours. If you too want to enjoy the fascination of tourism, do not be late, and embark on your tours.

Source by Michael Braganza