Here are even more reasons for nature lovers to go on a vacation in Guatemala. This is the first part of the list of national park and national natural reserves that you can visit to learn about local flora and fauna as well as supporting them. Here is part 2, don’t you miss it.

Here are 4 National Natural Reserves in Guatemala:

Chelemhá Cloud Forest Preserve

This privately managed protected area comprises 500 hectares of primary cloud forest and is part of the Sierra Yalijux mountain range, said to harbor Guatemala’s highest density of quetzal populations. The reserve forms part of an important migratory corridor to and from the Sierra de las Minas. Need I say more?

Biotopo Mario Dary Rivera

Also known as the Quetzal Biotope, this 1,044-hectare protected area is one of several biotopes administered by San Carlos University’s Department of Conservation Studies (CECON) and is conveniently situated along Highway CA-14 at Km. 160.5, about an hour from Cobán. Though quetzal birds are easier to spot in the Sierra de Las Minas Biosphere Reserve, the elusive creatures are said to frequent the yard of some local eating establishments, where they like to feast on the fruits of the aguacatillo tree.

The Quetzal Biotope’s convenient roadside location means that if you’re on your way to or from Cobán, you should at least stop in for a look. You might just get lucky and see one of Guatemala’s most beloved national symbols, with its exotic green plumage, long tail feathers, and bright red breast. Your best chances are between February and September. Plan on being up early if you want to see them.

Only a small part of the reserve is open to visitors, though there is plenty to keep you busy.

Candelaria Caves National Park

The cave system, discovered in 1974 by Frenchman Daniel Dreux, is composed of seven separate caves interconnected by the Río Candelaria and spanning about 22 kilometers. The caves are 20–30 meters wide in places with ceilings typically 10–60 meters high.

Caves were sacred to the Mayans and it is thought that nearby cities such as Cancuén lacked the substantial temple pyramids found elsewhere in the Mayan world because of the proximity of the Candelaria caves, which were used as a center for worship.

In Mayan lore, caves are thought to be entrances to the underworld, known as Xibalba. The Candelaria caves are one possible location for the mythical Xibalba; the Chiquibul caves running east-west from the northern Petén department into Belize are another.

The most convenient gateway for exploring one of Central America’s largest cave systems is a stop at the Complejo Cultural y Ecoturístico Cuevas de Candelaria. Entrance to the complex costs $3.50 (two-person minimum), including a guide and two-hour tour.

Laguna Lachuá National Park

This almost perfectly circular turquoise lagoon is its own ecological island, like a square patch of forest floating on a surrounding sea of deforestation. To see it from the air is to get a crash course in tropical forest management and the significance of ecological islands.

The 14,500-hectare Laguna Lachuá National Park is still one of the most beautiful places on earth, despite its challenges. Here you can enjoy the refreshing waters and the dense forest all around in an atmosphere of utter tranquility. There are more than 300 species of birds found here, including mealy parrots and keel-billed toucans. Jaguars still roam the park and you can sometimes see footprints.

The lake lies partially below sea level, at an altitude of 173 meters above sea level but also 222 meters deep. One of the more exciting theories concerning the lake’s formation contends the lakebed is an old meteor crater, with the rest of the meteor that created it having fallen near Cobán Guatemala in an area known as the Nim Tak’a depression.

As you can see they are all great! So which of these parks or reserves are you going to choose to meet face to face with the wildlife of Guatemala?

A lot of people look at Manhattan as the perfect travel destination for adults. But I discovered that it can also be a great place to visit with kids. It actually offers things that can keep families busy for days.

4 Things To Do In Manhattan with Kids:

Photo By: asterix611

1. Central Park – Many of the attractions in this park were created specifically for kids. Some of them are: Central Park Zoo, Belvedere Castle’s woods and water exhibit, the Central Park carousel (opened from April to November), storytelling next to the Hans Christian Anderson Statue, boat rides, swimming, Puppet Theater, fishing and even ice skating in winter.

2. Double Decker Tour buses – There are many variations of this tours being offered. In it you can explore different parts of the city on board of a double decker bus while a guide tells you fun stories and information about the landmarks and streets you go through. It is a great way to see the city in a fun and fast way so kids can enjoy it without getting bored.

3. The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum – The intrepid museum is dedicated to teaching about history, science and to honor war heroes, all of this on board of the USS Intrepid. They offer historical recreations, flight simulators, tours inside of a submarine as well as other outdoor interactive exhibits and activities for all ages. There is even a Space Shuttle Pavilion.

4. American Museum of Natural History – This is one of the most famous museums of the world. its mission is to discover, interpret and disseminate information about nature, the different human cultures through time and about the universe. Among the permanent exhibits that they have are: Biodiversity, Birds Reptiles and Amphibians, Earth & Planetary Sciences, fossils, human origins, Theodore Roosevelt and the Discovery room (for kids from 5 to 12 years old).

These 4 family friendly places in Manhattan guarantee at least 4 days of fun for the whole family.

If people have a problem with camping, it’s traditionally because they feel it lacks the comforts they expect from a holiday. Well, what if you could have all the adventure of camping as well as a little luxury? With Canvas, you can.

Camping with a difference

Canvas Holidays offer high-quality, luxury camping holidays for all the family. There’s no need to drag your own tent around with you: Canvas will pitch your tent so it’s ready and waiting for you. Not only that, but their tents are spacious and fully equipped with all the mod-cons associated with a private villa, including a fully-functional kitchen area with hobs, a fridge and BBQ facilities.

Choice of campsites

There’s also complete flexibility and choice. You can choose from a wide variety of campsites all over Europe, each with their own unique character and features, so you can opt for the one that best suits your holiday needs.

For those looking for an active holiday, there are plenty of sites that offer swimming pools, waterslides, tennis and golf. For those of you looking for a bit of rest and relaxation, check out the sites offering luxury spa services. There’s also plenty of opportunity to sit out in the sun with a good book and let the stresses and worries of everyday life slip away.

When the sun goes down, why not fire up the BBQ and sit out under the stars? You’ll be far enough away from the city lights to get a great view of the cosmos above, without light pollution from populated areas diminishing your view.

Accommodation

With each accommodation option, you get your own outdoor space – an area you can take some time out and relax on your own. If you’re bringing children, it’s an area they can play in where you can keep a close eye on them. It’s also a place you can park your car.

Of course, camping doesn’t necessarily mean tents. On top of the Maxi Tents, Canvas also offer luxury lodges, ranging from two-bedroom Deluxe Lodges all the way up to wooden bungalows (exclusive to Cambrills Park). There’s also a wide range of fully equipped, fixed mobile homes to choose from, providing you with a home away from home.

Staff

When you arrive, you’ll receive a warm welcome. Canvas’ friendly staff will be happy to help you with any queries you have about the facilities or your accommodation. They can also provide you with tips and information about the surrounding area, so you can find the best spots to eat, drink and buy food you can cook yourself, like fresh fish.

Booking

You’ll find great deals on camping holidays with Canvas throughout the season and booking is easy. Simply head over to the website or call on 0845 268 0827 where you can speak to the friendly staff, who will be happy to help you book or answer any questions you might have.

During the first three months of the year, the Central and South American countries explode with the wildest, loudest, liveliest, and most colorful carnival celebrations the world over. While all of these celebrations come complete with amazing, colorful costumes, parades, music, and all of the celebratory craze that you might find at any Mardi Gras in the United States, each has its own style, flare, and expectations. Consider this list of the most exciting carnivals that can be found throughout Central and South America.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – This is by the most famous (and largest) carnival celebration that occurs in the world. The event dates change, but usually fall within the middle to end of February, and attracts millions from all over the planet. Each year has a different theme, and dance parades called “samba schools” from various neighborhoods take to the streets to show off their costumes and moves. Costume balls and street parties fill the streets with music and floats that are surrounded by the constant flow of music, food, drink, and dancing.

Flickr | user: TerryGeorge.

Panama City, Panama – Carnival celebrations explode all over Panama, but the largest by far is held in Panama City, Panama. Like the celebrations that take place in Rio, carnival parties are generally held sometime within the last two weeks of February. Complete with impressive parades and Panamanian music and food, another unique aspect of this particular celebration has to do with water. Water “fights” are common, and generally involve citizens dousing each other with buckets of water in the oncoming heat. If you’re able to get to Panama during this time of year, make sure to stop by for a party in the capital of Panama.

Flickr | user: SFmission

Bolivia – Carnival in Bolivia tends to be a bit more religious and conservative than many other celebrations across South America, so for those who want orthodox tradition, folkloric themes, and religious dedication is what major cities throughout the country offer. Beer is still consumed during the celebrations, but unlike other, more rowdy celebrations, it might be difficult to find spirits or wild, drunken tourists flooding the streets of Bolivia’s towns and cities. Locals generally dress up as devils and dance until all demonic spirits are removed from the country. A 5 km long parade giving remembrance to strong Catholic celebrations, Spanish conquest, and theological fights between good and evil.

Flickr | User: Szymon Kochanski

Gualeguaychú, Argentina – If you are able to make it to the southernmost area of South America during the last week of March, Gualeguaychú is the place to visit. By far not the largest carnival festival on the continent, it is one of the last. The party generally ends in Argentina, but visitors will still love all the things these parades and scantily-clad women bring to the festivities. When the party ends on March 19th, a massive fiesta begins, and everyone heads toward a giant stadium in the city to enjoy food, drink, and great music to wrap up the party until next year.

Angie Picardo is a writer at NerdWallet’s TravelNerd blog, where you can find money saving tips on how to save up for a Carnival sojourn by setting financial goals.

The Cliff Walk in Newport is located on the eastern shore of Rhode Island. Aside from being a 3.5 mile public, National Recreation Trail in a Historic District, it is a place that offers exceptionally beautiful views on both sides. This makes a fantastic day trip for people of all ages, including families, and you don’t need to spend a cent.

6 Things To See on the Cliff Walk in Newport:

Photo By: janhatesmarcia

1. The beautiful architecture of the homes along the shore line that tell stories from Newport’s gilded age.

2. The forty steps, this is a stone staircase that takes you down to a balcony over the sea, from where you can enjoy amazing views.

3. The northern tip of the cliff walk, the best place to visit for families, and the starting point, since it is paved and in very good conditions.

4. If you are interested in looking at the architectural beauties of the area visit the Salve Regina section. From here you can see a castle, gorgeous university buildings and tons of beautiful homes.

5. There is a section of the walk where you will find a couple of tunnels, each of about a quarter mile long. This section is also a place where you get to see 3 stunning mansions that will blow your mind.

6. After you pass through the second tunnel you will find the Rough Point Bridge. This is a great place to rest while you see the waves crashing.

If you manage to do all 3.5 miles, a fun way to return to your car or the point where you started, is to take a trolley.

NOTE: If you are coming with a baby keep in mind that only the northern side has access for carriages.

If you want a relaxed day with amazing views during your trip to Rhode Island, definitely consider visiting the Cliff Walk in Newport. You won’t be disappointed!

Skiing as a recreational activity for families that is becoming very popular. Each year more and more families are traveling to places from around the world that offer slopes covered by snow. As a sport it was born in the European countries, but it also became a popular activity in Latin America.

For a fun family adventure in the snow you can visit the Latin American countries of Chile and Argentina. The Andes that divide these two countries have been a major skiing destination since 1966. A lot of people see the Andes as a strip of snowed mountains that lead to the end of the world.

Photo By: dylanburkey

Because of the attention that the area around the Andes gets, it is a place with tons of different lodging options. You can find anything from a skiing resort to a luxury ski chalet. there is something for everyone out there!

Also when you plan a skiing vacation to Argentina or Chile, be sure to plan it around the month of June to October. These are the months when weather is the best for skiing, and the slopes are more varied.

If you are worried about finding something for your level, this part of South America also offers wide-open snowfields and well-groomed runs for beginners as well as some of the steepest and deepest off-piste powder in the world.

So take a chance and experience a skiing vacation. If you visit Latin America you are guaranteed to have a great time.

The transition from being a solo traveler, or traveling with a group of friends to becoming a parent traveling with small kids can be confusing for some people. I remember that back when I traveled alone packing was left to the last minute; it was a 2 hour process. Now that I have a husband and two boys packing can take 4 days or more.

No matter how much experience you have, there is always something. It seems almost impossible not to forget something. But I’ve ALMOST got the hang of this packing business.

This is how we breakup responsibilities: My husband looks out for himself and I do the rest! Believe me; this is better than it sounds. The packing process is faster if I take care of the kid’s stuff.

The first thing I worry about is having the right clothes for the destination we are about to visit. If I think I need anything I go to online stores like alexandalexa. Once I am sure that our clothing will be weather appropriate I move on to actually packing.

Here are some of the things, aside from clothes that I pack for my boys if we are going on a long weekend trip:

• Cleaning cloths and bibs
• Water bottles
• Sippy cup with water or juice
• Baby wipes
• Sun screen
• Tylenol for Kids
• Saline solution for nose drops
• Crackers
• Fruit and snacks
• Toys
• Portable dvd player and videos
• Kid friendly camera
• Drawing book or coloring book and coloredSnacks – cereal, cookies
• Milk
• Ipod/mp3 player

This is just a quick list of must haves for traveling with my boys. I’m sure the list will be different for every family. But I hope this gives you an idea of some of the things that you might need for a family vacation.

One of the great things about holidaying in a new country is the discovery of local delicacies and tipples. That is why exploring Central and South America is such a cool thing. But there are tons of other destinations you can visit after you have finished with this side of the world. How about Crete for a diferent kind of adventure? If you’ve taken a cheap holiday to the Greek Islands before, no doubt you’ve come across local wines and spirits and endured a hefty hangover to boot.

Photo By: Ole Husby

The hard-hitters
Most certainly you will have enjoyed many a glass of Retsina or Domestica which constitutes local wine and definitely Ouzo. You’ve possibly even found a glass of Metaxa in your hand when ordering spirits on an all inclusive holiday too. That’s because all inclusive holidays provide unlimited supplies of the local stuff and branded wines and spirits incur a surcharge. But sometimes these ‘happy accidents’ help you to develop a real taste for the local stuff. You may even find yourself stocking up in the airport on your return home. Stranger things have happened.

When in Crete
On holiday in Crete you will more than likely come across the fiery raki known as Tsíkoudia in these ’ere parts. Made from grape skins leftover from the wine making process, this clear and innocent looking drink packs a punch and will definitely warm your cockles. It’s customary to offer this local tipple to guests, so don’t be surprised if it is thrust upon you in bars, tavernas, hotels and even in shops. Shopping never looked so good. In fact it’s a great way to persuade reluctant shoppers that an afternoon traipsing around the shops is the best way to spend your time.

The art of drinking
If you’re not familiar with this drink it’s probably advisable to take it slowly on your first encounter. Sip rather than drain your glass in one, well not until you have got the measure of the beast. It’s also okay to only have the one, although Cretans will encourage you to have more. We’ll leave that to your better judgement but fear it will fall on deaf ears. Well you are on crete holidays after all and this is the perfect way to blend in with the locals. You may even find you are a natural when it comes to Greek dancing too. We can’t wait to see the photos.

Manhattan is a huge city with an unstoppable energy. There is always some exciting event going on. This city is home to landmarks known around the world. It is divided into neighborhoods, each has particularities that make it special, and it is the combination of all of these that make Manhattan such an especial place.

10 of the Best Neighborhoods in Manhattan:

Photo By: Mohib Ahmad

1. Wall Street – This is the financial district of New York City, one of the most important ones in the world. Until 1996 it was just a bunch of office buildings, but now a fifth of the buildings have been changed into living areas, making it a true neighborhood.

2. Greenwich Village – It is a residential area located between Broadway, and the Hudson River. It used to be a village outside of New York but became part of the city as it grew, and is now considered a historic district.

3. East Village – This village is also known as Alphabet City, it is formed by many other smaller neighborhoods and is the center of the counterculture of New York. It is also the birthplace of movements like punk rock.

4. Soho – Also known as the Iron Historic District, this neighborhood consists of 26 blocks. This part of the city is a place that you should visit if you like art galleries and shopping.

5. Chelsea – The neighborhood contains significant examples of period architecture. It is mostly residential and its few businesses reflect the ethnic diversity of the city. Its western side is also famous for its art galleries.

6. Meat Packing District – It started as a small place with a few families selling meat and dairy at the Gansevoort Market. It is still a small place but is now known as the most fashionable district of New York.

7. Midtown – This is New York’s largest business district, where you will find iconic places like the Empire State, Chrysler Building, The United Nations headquarters, Broadway, Rockefeller Center and Times Square.

8. Upper West Side – Upper West Side is an upscale residential area with a reputation of being Manhattan’s cultural, intellectual and artistic center. You will find it between Central park and the Hudson River.

9. Upper East Side – It is the community with the higher population density in the city and is the place where you will be able to find museums that are famous around the world. There is a string of museums along Fifth avenue.

10. Harlem – This is a large neighborhood that was founded in the 17th century and became a world renowned center of the African-American culture. It is also home to tons of Landmarks that have been declared Historic Places.

Each of these 10 neighborhoods in Manhattan offer days filled with things to do and places to visit for travelers and locals. So make sure to visit at least a couple the next time you visit New York.

Manhattan is a huge, incredibly busy city in the US known around the world for its shopping, restaurants, nightlife, museums, show business, fashion, historic landmarks and much more!

There isn’t a dull moment in Manhattan, in it you can find tons of different things to do and see. It’s all about finding the right things for you. This is definitely a place everyone should visit at least once in their lives!

Photo By: Grufnik

What To See in Manhattan:

1. Empire States Building - This is one of the most famous landmarks of Manhattan. It is a 102 story building and was the world’s tallest building for over 40 years. Now it is one of the seven wonders of the modern world and a cultural icon.

At night you can see it illuminated, the colors vary depending on the season or holiday. For an experience that will blow your mind visit the observatory on the 86th floor. You won’t believe how amazing the view is!

2. Statue of Liberty - This colossal sculpture is probably the first thing that pops into people’s heads when New York is mentioned on a conversation. It was given to the US as a gift from France. The statue has been closed and re opened to the public many times, it is currently closed, but visitors will be able to visit it again on July 2013.

It sits in Upper New York Bay and stands on liberty island to greet all of the ships that come through it.

3. Columbus Circle - This is another major attraction of Manhattan. It was named after Christopher Columbus and is the point from where distances are measured in New York. In the center it has a monument that commemorates the landing of Columbus in Americas. Its construction was finished in 1905.

4. Central Park - This is a huge, 778 acre, public park in the middle of Manhattan that was designated as a National Historic Landmark. It is the most visited urban park in the US and with good reason. It is a beautiful place, worlds apart from the surrounding city, with hiking trails and small lakes in the middle of a large area of woods.

You can spend lots of time having fun in it!

5. Lincoln Square - This is an elegant neighborhood of New York and a great place for people looking for cultural activities like theater, dancing and music. If you are an opera lover, you don’t want to miss it!

6. Penn Station - This is a huge train station that receives around 300,000 passengers every day, the busiest one in North America. Even if you are not taking the train it is worth visiting it. It is a great way to see how people of New York go from one place to the other.