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Snow in Miami! It is Winter Wonder in Jungle Island

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“Snow in Miami,” screamed the headline on The Miami News. It was 19th January 1977 when Miami saw its first snowfall ever in the recorded history. While most of the states in the United States are blessed with snowfall during winter, Florida, especially the southern part, has not been much lucky.

However, if you are in Miami or travelling to Miami and missing the snow, then you do not have to go anywhere far. Winter Wonder Island in the famous Jungle Island (Coupon Included) will help your wildest dreams come true! The special event will begin on 29th November until 5th January every night. It will be very special to visit with kids, family or your special one this Friday if you are not camping outside your nearest electronic store for Black Friday sale.

The place, where you can have photos done with Santa Claus amid the snow, will have holiday themed like lighting, laser show and a special screening of holiday movie. Take it out of your mind that Miami is hot, here you can play with snowballs and make your snowman.

Jungle Island, previously known as Parrot Jungle, is an interactive zoological park that can interest any kid or bring out the child in you. Some of the most beautiful, rarest and harmless birds fly freely here and you can have face-to-face encounter with them. Jungle Island is also home to many exotic animals from all over the world, which includes Tigers, Lions, Orangutans, Cassowary, Lemurs, Kangaroos, Penguins, reptiles and many more!

Apart from the regular animals, Jungle Island is also home to world’s largest living cat, Hercules. Hercules is a liger. Now what is that? Liger is the crossbreed between a male lion and a tigress. The Guinness Book of World Records recognizes Hercules as the largest living cat on Earth. Today Show, Good Morning America, Anderson Cooper 360, Inside Edition and an article in Maxim in 2005 have already featured this famous Liger.

Liger hercules Jungle Island

Photo by flickr/andycarvin

Jungle island tiger

Photo by flickr/Bob B. Brown

Jungle island flamingos

Photo by flickr/Bob B. Brown

When I visited Florida on my educational trip, my friend offered me to visit this place with her, and I am glad I agreed. It was one of the best zoological park in my opinion, though the design of cages were not very creative. Sometimes I felt bad for the animals looking at the small size of the cage, but what made it the best park is the human-animal interaction. This was more like an educational park where you learn a lot about animals, their behaviour and nature. Even the fiercest animals can make you laugh and make your day! It is not a joke, a black leopard literally marked its territory on my friend by coming up to the fence and spraying its… you know!

Almost all the time the park is busy organizing shows exhibiting exotic animals, or live music, however I kept myself busy with the animals, though I would advise you to not to skip any shows. You can talk to parrots as much as you want, and it was very funny for me when parrots greeted “hello” and “bye”! I was flattered when a parrot called me “pretty bird”. You can buy handful of bird food for 25 cents and feed the parrots on the go.

Jungle island parrots

Flirtatious Parrots! Photo by flickr/Bob B. Brown

I paid extra $5 to enter the Kangaroo cage, I fed them and I could pet and cuddle with them. They were so soft, and did not kick me as I have seen in cartoons. I also tried to cuddle a penguin through the fence, but a worker stopped me. I could see that little baby penguin really wanted to hug me.

The place was not so big and required only 3-4 hours of a day to see most of the things. However, if you have really amalgamated in the environment with the animals then one day is not enough for you. It was the same case with me. The place was slightly pricey for a student like me, we had no knowledge of any discount coupons at that time, but now I know, and I have shared the link with you above. I really wanted to see the lemurs, but that required additional $79.95 plus taxes! I heard lemurs are very funny and love to play. You will be taken to a separate room where you can watch them play with each other and with you too.

You can take photos, but if you want to pose with the animals, then you will have to pay some money, which was costly. All you can do is take many pictures and get a CD done for you for $50. Which was relatively cheaper, but still costly.

Huge cost is understandable, as animals require a lot of attention and proper caring, we could see that well, as all the animals were in happy mood and they can make you laugh. I am sure if you were here once, you would definitely come again. I have made my mind that if I travel to Miami ever again; this is the place to visit. If you come to Miami often, I would suggest you to buy a yearly pass. While one day admission ticket will cost you $35.26 including tax for an adult, a yearly pass will cost you $48.10 just a bit more expensive, but worth. You will get additional discounts on various internal excursions like “The Lemur Experience” if you have a yearly pass.

If it was not the snow festival, Miami can be very hot otherwise. It is a “must-see” attraction in Miami. Let me know your opinion and experiences if you have been there, share your views in the comment box below or read my other travel experiences here.

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Barcelona and Athens: cities that will leave an everlasting impression

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Barcelona house real estate

Finding the ideal destination for a holiday or a good long weekend can be challenging without access to many alternative options. Luckily, there are cities that need no introduction to know that they hold the solution; such is the case with Barcelona, in Spain, and Athens, in Greece, which you should always have at the top of your list of potential places to visit. 

Barcelona, a city you’ll never forget

Barcelona is where you can find everything to make the most of your time and live unique experiences. Just go online and search for a city guide of Barcelona to review everything and start planning your trip.

The help of a good website

Tourism blogs and websites are an excellent alternative to virtually explore Barcelona and learn more about places to visit, public transport schedules, dining options, hotels and accommodations, and other useful information to make your visit more enjoyable.

The key lies in planning

With good planning, you’ll not only find splendid places to spend wonderful moments but also save money and get great recommendations to make your trip and stay enjoyable.

Park Güell: a must-visit

Barcelona stands out for its incredible attractions, among which Park Güell shines. Just read more about this interesting place to fall in love with it and make this visit mandatory.

What is Park Güell?

It’s one of Barcelona’s most emblematic places, designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí. Originally conceived as a housing development and later converted into a public park.

Architectural and natural elements

The main entrance is flanked by two modernist pavilions, with a staircase leading to the famous hypostyle hall and a central square with a panoramic view of Barcelona. Additionally, it features over 17 hectares of gardens, viaducts, and winding paths, integrating architecture with the natural landscape.

Cultural Heritage

Park Güell is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage and is classified as a Cultural Interest Site of Spain.

Athens: a journey to the past

Another city that will surely surprise you with its cultural and historical legacy is Athens, Greece, where you can enjoy impressive Hellenic ruins. It’s advisable to visit an Athens travel guide on the internet before you go to learn about everything and better organise your visit.

Historical richness

With over 3,000 years of history, Athens is the cradle of Western civilization and is home to ancient monuments such as the Parthenon, the Agora, the Acropolis, and many Greek temples.

Mediterranean cuisine

One of the main attractions of this city is its cuisine, which offers a delicious culinary experience of the Mediterranean diet.

Hospitality

Athens is known for its friendliness, and it is well-equipped to cater to tourists from all over the world.

The Acropolis of Athens

While in Athens, you have to visit the Acropolis, where masterpieces of Hellenic architecture are concentrated for you to marvel at their grandeur. Keep in mind that it is a highly visited site, so you should book now to secure access for your visit.

Beautiful architecture

Acropolis means “high city,” as it is located on a rocky outcrop in the city centre. Here you’ll find several iconic buildings from Athens’ golden age (479 – 431 BC), such as the Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena.

Central location

Reaching the Acropolis is easy from any point in the city, so you won’t get lost. From there, you’ll have panoramic views of the city spreading out at your feet.

In conclusion, Barcelona and Athens stand as timeless destinations offering an enchanting blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Whether exploring the iconic landmarks of Barcelona or delving into the rich historical tapestry of Athens, these cities promise unforgettable experiences for travellers seeking adventure and discovery. With careful planning and the aid of modern resources, embarking on a journey to these vibrant metropolises ensures a truly memorable escape.

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Immerse Yourself in Nature: Explore Forest Bathing with a New Guidebook

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Forest bathing, a practice with roots in Japan, has surged in popularity in recent years. But what exactly is it, and how can you experience its potential health benefits? This article dives into the world of forest bathing and unveils a new resource – a guidebook by foresttherapyhub, to help you embark on your own immersive nature experience.

Forest Bathing: A Path to Well-being

Forest bathing isn’t simply a walk in the woods. It’s a guided practice of connecting with nature through our senses. By slowing down, quieting our minds, and focusing on the sights, sounds, smells, textures, and tastes of the forest environment, we can unlock a range of health benefits. Studies have shown that forest bathing can reduce stress, improve mood, boost the immune system, and even lower blood pressure. This makes it a valuable tool within the realm of nature-based interventions.

Forest Therapy Hub: Your Gateway to Nature

Forest Therapy Hub (FTHub) is a leading organization dedicated to promoting and educating people about forest bathing. They offer workshops, retreats, and certifications for those who want to deepen their understanding and practice of this nature-based intervention.

At the heart of forest bathing lies the idea of mindfulness and presence. As individuals wander through the forest, they are encouraged to engage with their surroundings fully. This includes observing the intricate patterns of leaves, listening to the rustle of trees, feeling the texture of bark, and even tasting the freshness of the air.

A Unique Guidebook for Forest Bathing Adventures

FTHub’s latest offering, feeling nature: a Forest Bathing Book with 50 trails https://foresttherapyhub.com/news/feeling-nature-a-book-with-50-trails-for-forest-bathing/, is a one-of-a-kind resource for anyone interested in forest bathing. This book isn’t your typical trail guide. It’s a collaboration between forest bathing professionals and forestry experts, offering a unique perspective on 50 different trails across Spain.

More Than Just Directions

Each trail description goes beyond basic directions. The authors, who are experienced forest bathing guides, provide sensory cues to heighten your awareness of the natural world. They share details you might otherwise miss, transforming your walk into a multisensory experience.

Respectful Exploration

The book also emphasizes respectful exploration of natural landscapes. The authors, well-versed in forestry, weave scientific information about the specific ecosystems into the trail descriptions. This fosters a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of nature and encourages responsible forest bathing practices, aligning perfectly with the core principles of nature-based interventions.

A Personal Connection

Feeling nature goes beyond providing factual information. Each guide infuses their trail description with their personal connection to the forest, sharing insights gained from countless hours spent immersed in nature. This adds a layer of warmth and authenticity to the book, making it a valuable companion for anyone seeking a deeper connection with the natural world.

Take a Step Towards Well-being with Forest Bathing

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a way to reconnect with nature, feeling nature offers a unique and enriching forest bathing experience. With its detailed descriptions, scientific insights, and personal anecdotes, this book by Forest Therapy Hub is your perfect companion for a transformative journey into the healing embrace of the forest.

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Discover the finest tours across Morocco: an adventure oasis

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travel morocco market

Morocco is a North African country renowned for its contrasts and many wonders. Its territory stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the golden dunes of the Sahara. Moreover, it boasts a rich history spanning thousands of years and a culture that intertwines Berber people, Arab heritage, and French influence. 

If you’re in search of Morocco desert tours that allow you to explore and experience unforgettable adventures in the country, the options are as diverse as its landscapes. You can immerse yourself in the impressive urban landscape of Fez, savour the exquisite cuisine of Marrakech, relax on the coasts of Essaouira, and, of course, journey through the Sahara Desert via various tours, which will also invite you to explore numerous cities and towns of Morocco, and indulge in unique activities. If you’re keen to discover more about the desert tours that Morocco has to offer, this article will introduce you to some of the finest.

Tours from Marrakech to the desert

From the vibrant city of Marrakech, you can find numerous tours departing towards the desert, promising to offer you a unique and unforgettable experience. One of the most popular Marrakech desert tours is the trip to the Zagora desert, which over two days allows you to explore the High Atlas. 

Here, you can admire landscapes of breathtaking beauty and visit Berber villages that reflect their culture and origins to the teeth. Upon arriving in Zagora, you’ll have the opportunity to ride camels at sunset, followed by a cosy night under the stars in a traditional camp. 

If you’re seeking an even deeper and comprehensive experience, you can also undertake three-day tours from Marrakech to the Merzouga desert, which give you the chance to explore the popular Erg Chebbi dunes, as well as including visits to historic kasbahs, fertile valleys, and allowing you to observe the interesting local life in the oases.

Camel Trekking in Merzouga

Merzouga is also the perfect starting point for a Camel trekking Morocco, thanks to its spectacular sand dunes. Through this activity, you can experience nomadic life, trekking through the Erg Chebbi dunes, known to be the highest in Morocco. 

At the same time, you can opt for a one-night camel excursion, where you’ll enjoy the sunset in the desert, a traditional dinner around a campfire, and a night in a Berber tent. Then, upon awakening, you’ll witness the tranquillity and beauty that can only be offered by the sunrise in the desert. 

For those more adventurous individuals, there are also options for multi-day trekking, where you’ll have the opportunity to visit numerous nomadic communities and explore the unique geography of the desert. Ultimately, camel trekking tours are an ideal way to immerse yourself in the beauty and simplicity of the Sahara Desert.

Tours from Fez to the Sahara Desert

Fez, the impressive imperial city steeped in history and culture, is another starting point for embarking on a Sahara desert tour. It’s a typical two-day tour that takes you from the antiquity of Fez through the Middle Atlas mountains to the entrance of the desert

Along the way, you can see cedar forests with wild monkeys and the dazzling Ziz Valley. Then, once you’ve reached Merzouga, you’ll have the opportunity to embark on a camel ride to the desert camp, where you’ll spend the night. 

On the other hand, tours from Fez to the Sahara Desert also often offer the possibility of visiting local villages and markets, providing you with an authentic insight into desert life. Finally, you’ll have the unforgettable experience of sleeping surrounded by the immensity of the dunes and under the stars of the desert sky.

Whether it’s exploring ancient Berber villages, trekking across towering sand dunes, or experiencing the tranquillity of a desert night under the stars, these tours promise an adventure like no other. Book your Moroccan adventure today and create memories to last a lifetime.

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