Archive for July, 2009

For a adventurous outdoor Alaska vacation consider the Nanamiut Village in the Artic National Park

Thursday, July 30th, 2009

For a adventurous natural Alaska vacations consider the Anaktuvuk Pass in the Brooks Range.

If what you are seeking for is a genuine outdoors Alaska vacations you may need to think about traveling to Nunamiut Village right on the edge of the Gates of Arctic National Park and Preserve. Here you will discover people that are children of those that have coexisted in the habitat since before five-hundred BC. These People survived on caribou, which they still hunt, eat, and make clothing and more from, just like their ancestors.

The remote village is one that should be preserved for its way of life. When tourist come to the village and disturb the natural flow of the community it is both disrespectful and unappreciated. For this reason the village has provided a camping area that visitors must camp in. This campground is situated among the willows along the east side of the runway across the town. Be sure to register with the store, ranger station or community center for more details on the requirements for camping here. Do NOT camp within sight of the village, it is disrespectful toward the local people. Respect them, they have lived here a lot longer than you have been alive and have the right to be honored in their home.

The Anaktuvuk Pass consists of just two-hundred-fifty people. The village is described as a bush community so supplies are in short supply. The local residents still rely on caribou herds for alll of their meat, although they do hunt Dall sheep and harvest trout and grayling, ptarmigan, and waterfowl.

The temperatures in the area varies from the fifties during the summer time to an average of -14 degrees in January. Of course, since its Alaska, and the far north of Alaska, there are recorded cold spells of between -56 and -91 degrees. The area gets an average of 11 inches of rainfall with an average snowfall of 63 inches each year.

When touring the area be sure to carry along those things that you will need (and remember you will be packing the items so only pack the necessary items to avoid having to carry the extra weight). The village does not have the amenities that you may be used to in other sites so you will not be able to run to the store to pick the items up. Remember, it is a absolutely rugged Alaska vacation you are taking, one that will create a great memory for decades to come.

If you don’t need the comfort of traditional Alaska tours, and desire a true Far North Alaska vacation then this is an area that you absolutely will need to consider. Although you will not just spend your vacation in Nanamiut Village, but go on to Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, a visit and perhaps an overnight in the village will give you a experience of what it would be like to live this far from the rest of the state and in the lifestyle that their ancestors lived years ago. Come, enjoy and respect the area so others will have the opportunity to appreciate this wonderland of the north too.

Opting for the Package Ideal for your Scotland Golf Holiday

Friday, July 24th, 2009

Tourists are known to travel to Scotland, especially since this country has a lot to offer. Not only is Scotland an ideal destination for travelers, it is also best for golf lovers. For an exciting vacation that combines sports and leisure, choose a Scotland Golf Holiday. There are many packages to select from, depending on choice of accommodation, over-all cost, and types of touring activities. Whatever destination you have in mind, you can always search for the vacation package that offers you what you need. Whether you are attracted to the golf courses of Angus or Perthshire, there are exceptional golf holiday packages just for you.

Indulge in a Scotland Golfing Holiday

Friday, July 24th, 2009

If you are searching for a unique way to spend your holidays, visiting Scotland is a smart choice. This nation is known the world over for its history, pristine environment, traditions, and the arts. In Scotland, can always seek out and enjoy the finest golf holiday destinations. Exciting and extraordinary, a Golfing Holiday Scotland is one trip you will forever remember. With various packages for selection, you will surely have the holiday of your dreams, at a price you can well afford. This will allow you to explore the beauty of Scotland and to play your favourite sport as well.

Why a Scotland Golf Break Could Be Your Perfect Vacation

Thursday, July 23rd, 2009

Are you searching for the means to unwind after long months of work and pressure? Indulging in a Golf Break Scotland will most certainly afford you excellent means in adventure and relaxation. You can play your favourite sport contentedly, while relaxing amidst stunning scenery. For a good price, you can already make a hotel booking, bed and breakfast, and ask for extra services like car rentals and airport pick up. If you visit Scotland in the winter months, you will be getting much of the needed quiet and relaxed atmosphere. For a trip that’s truly memorable, you can go on a fishing expedition as well.

Bivy Bags - Waterproof and Water-Resistant Sacks

Wednesday, July 22nd, 2009

A bivvy sack is the simplest form of waterproof shelter. If you can handle being in a confined space it’s a good substitute for a tent. They’re lightweight and extremely easy to set up. You can even pitch it just about anywhere you want. With a bivvy bag, you can arrive at camp, crawl in, and go to sleep.

Weatherproof Bivvy

If no water can come into the bivvy sack, it can be considered as stormproof. You can use a stormproof bivvy sack alone even in bad weather. The fabrics, seams and opening determines whether a bivvy sack is stormproof or not.

The fabric used in stormproof in general are either Gore-Tex or eVent fabrics which are waterproof as well as breathable. To prevent condensation, fabrics in stormproof bivvies need to allow vapor from perspiration to escape to prevent condensation.

The floor of these stormproof bivvies are made of waterproof fabrics as well but not necessarily breathable. Waterproof-nonbreathable fabric such as silicone coated nylon is typically used for the floor. The main function is to keep water from seeping through from the ground. Additionally the floor has to be resistant to abrasions and punctures.

A bivvy sack can only be considered as stormproof if it can totally prevent water from seeping in by having sealed seams and waterproof closures.

Water Resistant Sack

A water resistant bivvy sack does not have sealed seams, waterproof fabrics and waterproof closures. Depending on the weather, water-resistant bivvies can be better than stormproof ones.

Many ultralight hikers prefer water-resistant sacks because they’re much lighter than stormproof versions.

One less obvious advantage is that water-resistant bivvies are less prone to condensation. Vapors due to perspiration are expelled quickly, reducing the chances of a condensate forming.

This type of bivvy fails miserably as a standalone shelter but is excellent when used in combination with a tarp as a bivvy shelter. I use a 5 x 8 foot tarp for use with a bivvy sack which works well the foulest of weather.

However, no fabric can completely eliminate condensation inside a bivvy sack. As a warm body perspires, giving out vapor and in a confined space, condensation occurs when the temperature outside is lower by a big margin. The head end and the foot end of the bivvy sack is succeptible to condensation. The risk is increased when the weather is humid but if there is good ventilation it is less likely to occur.

Discover the Top 3 Romantic Ohio Tourism Ideas

Monday, July 20th, 2009

Family Ohio Tourism Destinations: Has your family chosen where you want to go on your Ohio summer vacation? You are not alone, most families have not yet decided where they want to go. It can be a quite time consuming process to discover that ideal vacation escape, so explore the choices for your Ohio Tourism. You will discover exciting alternatives and it certainly will not be an easy decision!

Good news, if you are careful and take the commitment to do some planning, it should make your summer vacation easy and one of those “family stories” that you will treasure forever. The most frequent mistake people experience is first selecting a “destination.” The ideal vacations occur when you first select “what you want to do”! Do you want to go hiking, tanning on a beach, playing and relaxing at a pool, or touring cultural or heritage locations? By choosing “what you want to do” first, you are off to the best start of selecting that perfect family vacation destination!

Once you know “what you want to do” – you can sift through the various tourism destination locations and discover those appealing attractions that you hope to go see or do. By taking a little time planning, you can also select those destinations that include a number of attractions that are of interest to both you and your whole family. Online destination guides are useful that can help you find detailed information about activities that are more detailed than a short attraction name and address. Once you know “what” you want to do and “where” you want to go, a real high quality online Ohio destination guide will provide you a comprehensive article describing each attraction to assist you making an educated decision about what you want to do and where you want to go.

Here are three Ohio vacation alternatives that you may want to consider:

Idea #1: Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum - Pickerington, Ohio. Stop in and visit the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum to see the 11 custom motorcycles built by Arlen Ness. If you are a motorcycle devotee you know that Mr. Ness was “the king of choppers” so seeing 11 of his bikes will be a real thrill.

Idea #2: On your next visit to Ohio, spend a day at Historic Roscoe Village in Coshocton. There are a variety of attractions at Roscoe Village including living history tours, Canal cruises, exceptional shopping, gardens, a museum and more. Roscoe Village was once a vibrant port town along the Ohio and Erie Canal system. Today, its charm and attractions have been restored in a recreated 1800s village atmosphere.

Idea #3: The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium – Powell, Ohio (Central Ohio). The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Powell, Ohio is a world famous zoo, with a world famous curator, Jack Hanna, located along the O’Shaughnessy Reservoir on the Scioto River just a few minutes north of Columbus, Ohio. The zoo owns 580 acres of land in all, which includes the Safari Golf Course, Zoombezi Bay Water Park, and Jungle Jack’s Landing.

As you have discovered, you have a wide variety of alternatives available to you when it comes to selecting that ideal family vacation getaway. Take your time to plan carefully what you want to do and where you want to go. Select a quality travel guide to help you on those perfect Ohio destination guide. And you will know that you will experience a family vacation with a lifetime of memories.

Washington DC Tourism and a Visit to Rock Creek Park

Monday, July 13th, 2009

While you are planning your Washington DC tourism schedule you may want to plan a visit to Rock Creek Park to get out of the schedule of museums and culture. You may want to take some time and visit the peaceful areas of Rock Creek Park. Here you can visit the nature center and the planetarium where you have a chance to step out of the noise and pressure and just enjoy a little while of nature.

Stroll through the park on the paths that will allow you to see nature and its animals. You may get to see a whitetail deer or a fox. Perhaps you will want to spend some time watching the beaver take down a tree or build a dam. Not that they are always there, but you can see where they have been busy and maybe, just maybe you will actually see them at work. Since the park has the largest density of raccoons in the US you may get to watch one washing its dinner in the creek. This is quite a sight to see.

There are tours given by the park rangers that you will be able to participate in if you are so inclined. You will be able to take a tour on foot, horseback or bike. If you choose to go on bike you will need to bring your own. What a great way to learn more about nature. A visit to the planetarium will also give you the chance to see beyond yourself. Just gaze at the wonders of the sky and what is beyond where you are. Dream the dreams of those that have traveled into the outer space, study the stars, take a break from pressures and enjoy all there is to see.

Texsport Jumbo Cot For Camping First Hand Review

Sunday, July 12th, 2009

The manufacturer states that this folding camping cot has a water resistant and tough canvas and a tough frame that claim to support 300 pounds.

It’s not the easiest of cots to set up and you’d have to be strong to do it. You can safely throw away the instruction in the bin because it won’t help you much.

I bought this because regular cots are just too small. Fortunately, it really is tough and can hold firmly on uneven terrain.

Unfortunately, all the hard work setting it up is not repaid by comfort. A foam pad might help.

Unless there’s no choice I wouldn’t recommend this to anyone.

Below are other reviews:

When I moved into my current apartment, I slept on one of these for a month until I finally found a new bed. It’s a good size — I’m 6 foot 2 inches and I could stretch out comfortably. It’s also very sturdy and sets up quickly. You will probably want to add a thin foam pad for some extra cushion.

I think anybody giving this cot a five star rating is far more generous than I. The canvas is decent quality, but the build doesn’t look like it could handle anything but the slightest inadvertent abuse. Within about 14 seconds, the paint was already rubbing/flaking/chipping off the aluminum frame. The picture-free directions are POOR, so let me clue you in, if you’re a tall person who wants a cot they can fit on — this one being capable of fitting that bill. If your cot DOESN’T match the pictures on the box, or the picture in this listing, put the end rod with the hole farthest from the end on –last– so you have some leverage. Hard to explain without the capability of pictures in the review, but this will make more sense with the item in front of you.

The other review says something about “maybe some thin foam padding” might help. It’ll take a lot more than that to make this sucker comfortable due to the current taughtness of the canvas which might relax over time to make it more livable.

Is it more comfortable (as is) than ground outside? Sure. Why not. Is it much more comfortable -inside- than sleeping on the carpet? Not particularly.

If you’re a tall pup and don’t want your feet hanging off the end of a cot, and this is the only game in town due to pets wanting to use infinitely-more-comfortable inflatables as claw toys, then DON’T pay over $50, buy some serious padding, give it a go, and put on the “overly long” end connector on -last-.

If you have any other options for a snooze, use them instead.

And don’t put a guest on this thing, unless you hate your guest.

Child Sleeping Bags for Camp

Saturday, July 4th, 2009

When your kids sleep well at night, so do you. As an adult, you are responsible for your kids warmth and comfort when they sleep.

However, children have different needs to adults when it comes to sleeping bags. The design of sleeping bags for kids are a lot more simpler.

Manufacturers usually make use of cheaper materials to make kids sleeping bags. Synthetics are sufficient for kids sleeping bags. People don’t buy high quality sleeping bags for their kids because they’re likely to outgrow them in a few years.

However, price is not the only reason why down is less preferred than synthetics. Synthetics are less easily damaged than down and they’re easier to maintain. The use of down would just mean more work for you especially if your kids would tend to soil them. You’ll rarely ever see kids sleeping bags with down fillings but the Montbell UL Alpine Down Hugger #3 Sleeping Bag is one of the best if you can afford it.

You would want to choose a light sleeping bag for your kids if they’re going to carry them. The difference in weight between down sleeping bags and synthetic sleeping bags may not be very big to adults but for kids who carry their gear it may be significant.

It’s inevitable that lower quality kids sleeping bags are more popular. The kids may not really need down insulation anyway because most kids sleep warmer than adults. This is due to the fact that kids have a higher metabolic rate so even when they lose heat fast because of their smaller bodies, they produce heat even faster.

Choose sleeping bags with a hood, draft tube and draft collar if you to be sure that your kids stay warm. The hood is useful because you can lose a lot of heat through your head.

The North Face Tigger is generally known for its warmth and comfort but it also has some important safety features. The absense of cords to adjust the hood, your kid won’t be tangled during sleep.

A draft tube helps keep the warmth inside the bag by preventing it from escaping through the zipper. Draft collars are insulated tubes positioned just above the shoulders to prevent the body heat from radiating up and out of the sleeping bag.

Deuter, Integral Designs, Big Agnes, Lafuma, Slumberjack and Tough Traveller all make sleeping bags that cater for kids.

Kids sleeping bags come in a variety of sophistication from cheap rectangular to models to ones that’s suitable for arctic expeditions. In general, kids sleeping bags are cheap but it cost as much or more than the adult version depending on the level of sophistication.