https://activerain.com/blogs/mistyfaucheux en-us https://activerain.com/blogsview/1146097/social-media-services Trying to market your real estate services?  Not sure how to join the social networking age?  Then let Web Boost give your business some needed exposure! Web Boost offers a wide variety of services to assist you in marketing your business and administrative tasks.  Our experience social media team has a proven record of driving traffic to websites and blogs.  We can either "teach you the ropes" or maintain your accounts and daily posts. Social Media Services Create an online presence for your business through various social media outlets (i.e.  Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and many more...) Write blog postsAssist with SEOSocial Media "Coaching"Email campaigns and trackingPress ReleasesPublic RelationsBusiness DevelopmentMarketingOutreach to Bloggers and other mediaLink Building Administrative Services SalesBuild Site ContentSite MaintenanceTrade Show RepresentationEvent CoordinationCRM Research/Data InputData Entry Please inquire even if your business needs are not listed here.  Our experienced team will consider any and all business requests.  You can send me an email at mistyfaucheux@msn.com Sweet Viscape Thu, 09 Jul 2009 03:01:10 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1146097/social-media-services https://activerain.com/blogsview/1098324/summer-in-the-mountains It has definitely been a turbulent time in the foothills of Colorado.  We had a whole winter where there was hardly any snow and nice crisp temperatures.  Now, for almost three months, we seem to have had an endless array of precipitation. It seems like every weekend, Dev and I have to rush to go hiking or canoeing in the morning before the endless downpour that is sure to come in the afternoon.  It seems like the rains will never end.  But, then you look around and everything is green and starting to bloom.  I can't remember a summer when everything seemed so vibrant. In our garden, our peony and hosta are just starting to peep through the dark covering of gravel and soil.  The hummingbirds are starting to flutter around with endless speed and color.  Stellar's Jay fight with finches to get at the ever-depleting bird seed. It seems that summer has truly taken over its reign.  Have a happy summer! Sweet Viscape Mon, 01 Jun 2009 14:48:34 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1098324/summer-in-the-mountains https://activerain.com/blogsview/1068228/st--john-and--st--barths Summer's almost here and it's time to start thinking about getting out of town. Some of the most popular spots are St. John and St. Barthélemy (St. Barths) . Read the latest and greatest reviews of the St. John and St. Barthélemy (St. Barths), and find out which spots your should hit and which you should miss! I don't know a lot about the island of St. John, as I am just one of thousands of cruise ship passengers who have been ferried to the island with a limited amount of time to explore, but one thing I know is that on St. John, I discovered paradise. Granted, getting to paradise can be a little harrowing on an open-air "Island Taxi"--when you reach your destination, you might even be convinced that you died and went to Heaven! Trunk Bay is an amazing, crescent shaped bay nestled along the island's northeast coast. It's pristine white sands are flanked by tropical foliage on one side, and the clearest, most inviting blue sea I have ever seen in my life. I have earned my nickname "Chicken of the Sea" honestly, but even I had no fear swimming there, as it was like a giant swimming pool...I could see everything around me (and, thankfully, I saw nothing swimming WITH me). If you have the opportunity, Trunk Bay is definitely worth a visit! ~Knani We did a day trip by hobi-cat to St Barths from St. Martin. I recall two hours or so of rough winds causing the boat to rock rather violently. Dan couldn't help but get sea sick. St. Barths is a fair distance from St. Martin, whereas Anguilla shields St. Martin on the north side. St. Barths is an island unto itself - with very little wind shield from neighboring islands, and it is tiny and arid. The beaches are stunning -- with white sand and turquoise waters. When we arrived in Gustavia harbor, we could see massive yachts in the harbor with their helicopter pads up on the top level. Money is in the air and everywhere. As we approached the harbor, there were even larger yachts sitting side by side with a full time staff polishing the brass and cleaning the boats non-stop. High end shops - Louis Vuitton, Bulgari, Versace - you name it - lined the streets of Gustavia. We took a quick tour of the island and stopped by the famous Eden Rock, the oldest hotel, where a number of movie stars like to stay. We also had lunch at Toiny, which is supposed to have one of the finest French restaurants on the island. From Toiny, we got a glimpse of St. Kitts and Nevis in the far distance on the horizon. Some of the bars are known for having famous entertainers drop in and do impromptu performances. We sailed the boat over to the famous Colombier beach (see pic), which is mostly visited by boat only, simply because the footpath is quite a hike. I would have liked to have spent more time in St Barths and experience some of the eclectic restaurants and bars that the island is famous for. St. Barths is definitely high up on my list to go back! ~ Danteling Need ideas for where to stay? Well, just check out Viscape's St. John vacation rentals or St. Barths vacation homes. You won't go wrong with these choices. Sweet Viscape Fri, 08 May 2009 05:05:00 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1068228/st--john-and--st--barths https://activerain.com/blogsview/1068192/oahu-and-kauai-reviews Summer's almost here and it's time to start thinking about getting out of town.  Hawaii is always a popular spot, especially Oahu and Kauai.  Read the latest and greatest reviews of the Oahu and Kauai, and find out which spots your should hit and which you should miss! Koko Gardens: One of the less known hiking trails on Ohau is the Koko Gardens. This area has so many different kinds of plants and vegetation and is a quiet place to spend the day. Some of the many plants found are: Cacti Alluaudias Sansevierias Baobabs Dryland Palms Aloes Euphorbias Adeniums Of special note is the native grove of wiliwili trees (Erythrina sandwicensis) found in the Hawaiian section. KOKO CRATER BOTANICAL GARDEN is home to a collection of rare and beautiful plants from the tropical regions of the world. Some are rare or endangered in their native habitat. It is a cinder cone remaining from the last active volcano that occurred on O'ahu approximately 10,000 years ago. This crater is the tallest tuff ring in Hawaii, measuring 1,207 feet in height. The slopes of the crater drop steeply into the Molokai Channel, an area which lacks protection from any offshore reefs, causing very turbulent seas in this area. We have never seen so many different nor such large Cacti. They grow in one whole section that is amazing both in the variety of plants and their individual size. This collection is amazing. This is a little known treasure on the island. From our experience, this park has few visitors and is one of the island's best kept secrets. ~ by Mariesatz Magical Creatures, Human Sacrifice, and Polytheistic beliefs only add to Kauai’s long and interesting history, steeped in the type of legends and lore that never fail to captivate and entertain. The Menehune are one such legend. A strong, amazingly hardworking yet diminutive people, the elusive Menehune came out only at night, performing advanced stonemasonry unlike anything else in Hawaii. One legend concerns the high chief of Waimea; Ola. Getting water from Waimea River to the taro crops was exhausting work so Ola asked the Menehune for help which resulted in an impressive irrigation system, the Menehune Ditch. Built with smooth lava stones from over six miles, some believe this system predates the Hawaiians. History buff or not, it is definitely an interesting sight to see! Menehune also had a hand building the freshwater Alekoko Fish Pond. Heavy volcanic rock was expertly fit together to make a nicely walled enclosure perfect for mullet to survive. Unfortunately the Menehune weren’t able to complete the task in time for the dawn quittin’ time, so they left it unfinished, where it remained unchanged for generations. Get there by Hulemalu Road or, for the more adventurous, kayak up Huleia Stream and check it out. ~ Jessica_Nunemaker Need ideas for where to stay?  Well, just check out Viscape's Oahu vacation rentals or Kauai vacation homes.  You won't go wrong with these choices. Sweet Viscape Fri, 08 May 2009 04:45:44 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1068192/oahu-and-kauai-reviews https://activerain.com/blogsview/1066937/the-big-island Ever thought about going to Big Island, HI?  Curious as to what it's like.  Well, just read this review.  You'll be ready to go tomorrow! Love the colors of Mother Nature? Then check out the many colors of Hawaii’s big Island in an eco-friendly way! Hike the black rocks to see raging orange lava meet the Pacific’s cobalt blue waters, or take a soothing uphill bike ride through green meadows to the top of Mt. Kilauea. Vacationing on the big island of Hawaii provides for a trip to suit any family type. Young families with hyperactive kids who love to run and jump and never seem to nap ought to try out one of the island’s surfing schools dedicated to teaching kids the art of surfing. And for those lucky families who’ve already put the kids through college and are now happily celebrating their empty nests, the big island allows for that perfect getaway with over 15 luscious ocean-view golf courses and countless resorts that will pamper and sooth away your every whine and whimper. ~ by Alexg1785 And, be sure to check out all the affordable Big Island vacation rentals on Viscape today! Sweet Viscape Thu, 07 May 2009 06:11:49 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1066937/the-big-island https://activerain.com/blogsview/1066931/palm-beach--fl Just across the Intracoastal Waterway, the small island town of Palm Beach, FL has been the favorite winter getaway of America’s aristocracy—the Kennedys, the Rockefellers, and innumerable socialites—for close to a century. It’s an island oasis of untold wealth, spotless streets, soaring palm trees and glimpses of magnificent mansions behind manicured hedges. Check out the consignment shops of barely-used designer clothes on the side streets of Worth Avenue, the city’s most famous shopping strip. One woman’s trash is another woman’s couture treasure. It probably goes without saying that golf is a rather popular activity in Palm Beach. While many courses are private, a few are public, including a championship layout at the West Palm Beach Country Club. Once considered Palm Beach’s poor cousin, West Palm Beach on the mainland has grown into a financial hub with modern, architecturally interesting buildings and a hopping night life. Sweet Viscape Thu, 07 May 2009 06:04:06 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1066931/palm-beach--fl https://activerain.com/blogsview/1061928/st--martin Always wanted to learn about St. Martin, but wasn't sure who to ask?  Well, luckily, Viscape has reviews from people who have been there.  Just read about this member's experience! St. Maarten is a medium-size Caribbean island, divided into a French side and a Dutch side. You don’t have to stop at a customs station to cross from one side to the other. The island itself is rocky and hilly, covered with lush tropical vegetation. This usually would indicate frequent rainstorms, but the locals tell me that it doesn’t really rain much except in September, so there’s lots of reliable sunshine. Other than the many modern hotels and resorts, the Dutch side of the island is seems a bit shabby and run-down. Streets are narrow and barely maintained. This is in striking contrast to the French side, which seems cleaner, has fewer hotels and resorts, and smoother, wider roads. The beaches are typically clean and lovely, and you can’t beat the combination of Dutch and French cuisine: Delicious cheeses and pastries, excellent restaurants. And best of all, Heineken is everywhere. ~ By Sherlockhomeboy So get your St. Martin trip planning started today! Sweet Viscape Mon, 04 May 2009 05:08:48 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1061928/st--martin https://activerain.com/blogsview/1061883/vail-colorado-review- Vail Colorado is a great place to stay and play.  From an affordable ski chalets, you can practically ski to the nearest lift.  Just read one of the reviews on Viscape about Vail! Growing up, my father had a ski house in Beaver Creek. Beaver Creek is about 25 minutes from Vail and you can fly into the Vail/Eagle County Airport. We skied both Vail and Beaver Creek on every school vacation and also spent part of our summers hiking, biking and golfing in this mountain community. Simply stated, if I could move anywhere in the world with unlimited funds, I would move to Beaver Creek. It is majestic and I will never forget my family ski memories from so long ago. If you have a chance, lunch at Beano's Cabin---it is a hidden treasure with gourmet food and a great wine list! Beaver Creek is an outdoors community, so if you are planning a winter trip, plan to strap on your snow-shoes or rev up the snowmobile. For the summer sports enthusiast, Beaver Creek and Vail are home to some of the greatest golf courses in the country. FORE! Mountain biking and hiking are great activates for the physically fit because at the mountain altitudes catching your breath is part of the adventure! ~ By DCarlow Learn more about Vail today! Sweet Viscape Mon, 04 May 2009 04:52:39 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1061883/vail-colorado-review- https://activerain.com/blogsview/1056346/st--croix--us-virgin-islands The first tourist to arrive to St. Croix didn't get much of a warm welcome. Landing on its shores in 1493, Christopher Columbus was quickly driven away by the spears and arrows of the Carib Indians. The welcome is much warmer these days. Often overlooked in favor of its more hopping island neighbors, St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is worth a side trip for some of the nicest sand beaches in the Caribbean. Check out Sandy Point Beach, at the southwest tip of the island, famous for its soft white sand and shallow waters that reach only waist-high a hundred yards into the ocean. It also happens to be a turtle nesting ground. Don't turtles always know the best beaches? Stroll the streets of Christiansted and Frederiksted in St. Croix, founded by the Danes, and check out Fort Frederik, built to protect Frederiksted from pirate raids. Stop by Mt. Pellier Hut Domino Club to see Hurricane Roger, the incredible beer-drinking pig, guzzle a can of beer in 30 seconds. Also, check out all the affordable vacation rentals on Viscape! Sweet Viscape Thu, 30 Apr 2009 02:16:11 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1056346/st--croix--us-virgin-islands https://activerain.com/blogsview/1054787/maui--hi In the beginning of time, the demigod Maui pulled the Hawaiian Islands out of the sea with a giant fishhook and named one of the islands after himself. And there it still sits, in the middle of the Hawaiian chain. Maui, HI was the first Hawaiian island to attract large numbers of tourists, and it’s become known as a playground for the rich and famous. Oprah and Tiger and several other one-name-is-enough celebrities own vacation homes here, and it’s easy to see why. Where else can you get a backyard with your own waterfall, singing with birds? The west side is the more developed, while the east still feels remote. The small town of Hana, on the Maui's eastern tip, draws visitors looking for inner and outer peace. If you don’t know your most basic yoga positions you may feel out of place. The huge Haleakala Crater, 10,000 feet above sea level, is the island’s commanding center. Visit Haleakala National Park at sunset for a magnificent look at this gaping hole into Middle Earth and the surrounding moonlike lava fields. And, be sure to book your affordable Maui vacation rental today! Sweet Viscape Wed, 29 Apr 2009 02:08:39 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1054787/maui--hi https://activerain.com/blogsview/1053526/tampa-st--petersburg--fl As an alternative to Orlando, Tampa, FL, has its own attractions.  Busch Gardens draws crowds each year with its nature theme and roller coasters. Tampa also has its own sports team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers that play in an enormous arena with their own fake pirate ship. Close to Tampa is the town of St. Petersburg.  Here visit the pier, and walk on the luxury sand as you survey Tampa Bay itself or the Gulf of Mexico.  Stay in a St. Petersburg vacation rental rigng on the water and soak in some rays as you relax in perfect weather. The sister towns of Tampa and St. Petersburg combine the excitement of Orlando with the slow comfort of Naples.  Ride a rollercoaster then relax on the beach.  There's no better way to spend your vacation! Sweet Viscape Tue, 28 Apr 2009 04:36:07 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1053526/tampa-st--petersburg--fl https://activerain.com/blogsview/1053506/naples--fl Naples, FL is something of a contradiction.  It can be a one moment a sleepy, quiet town.  In the next, it's a 280,000 strong community of executives coming to stay in their myriad of Naples vacation homes.  In the winter, the temperature stays a balmy 80+, which is a nice break from the cold North.  Cypress line gated communities, but it's Main Street where you can see the most action. Stroll through the town and take in all the cultural activities to be had, including dining and plenty of art galleries.  Or, grab the golf clubs and head out to the course.  There's plenty to be had since it has the second largest number of golf courses per person behind Myrtle Beach.  But, just be forewarned before you head to Naples, FL.  The town closes its doors by 10:30 pm. Sweet Viscape Tue, 28 Apr 2009 04:24:47 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1053506/naples--fl https://activerain.com/blogsview/1051914/lake-winnipesaukee Lake Winnipesaukee is often translated to mean "beautiful water in a high place."  The locals, however, often just calls it Winni.  Lake Winnipesaukee trip planning often involves something like rent a Lake Winnipesaukee vacation rental on the water.  Bring a hammock or fishing rod, and simply enjoy life. The 72 square-mile lake is extremely peaceful with the mountains cradling it.  You can see Mount Washington from the lake.  Rent a sailboat and glide around the lake, and explore some of the 253 that make the lake their home.  Be mindful of weather on the lake.  It can whip up pretty fast. Or, grab the hiking boats and hit the trails.  You can hike around Mount Washington, and explore the flora and fauna of the region.  Winni has something for everyone! Sweet Viscape Mon, 27 Apr 2009 02:58:41 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1051914/lake-winnipesaukee https://activerain.com/blogsview/1051893/sarasota--fl John Ringling came to Sarasota, FL in 1927.  When he settled here, it was just a little beach town in a forgotten part of Florida.  Now, the area brims with over 50,000 residents and draws crowed of tourists to the Sarasota public beaches. As mention, John Ringling made this his home.  So, in homage of that legacy, the Ringling Museum of Art is full of impressive art from the Greek and Roman times all the way up to the present.  But, you should definitely make your way to the nearby Circus Museum and see what all the fuss over Ringling Brothers is about.  Then, make your way to Ca d'Zan, the impressive home of the Ringling Brothers themselves. Once you're tired of being inside, head to South Lido Beach for a swim or tan.  Go on a kayak trip through mangroves.  Or just relax in your Sarasota vacation rental near the beach. Sweet Viscape Mon, 27 Apr 2009 02:44:58 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1051893/sarasota--fl https://activerain.com/blogsview/1048880/fort-myers--fl Fort Myers, FL is famous for Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.  But, there's more than these inventors to draw Fort Myers trip planners.  Try visiting Lee County Manatee Park where as many as 100 endangered manatees can be seen during the winter months.  Or, take a day trip to Key West (yes that Key West!). Spend a day at the Fort Myers public beach, and gaze into the varied waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Have some steamed clams or other great seafood while watching the sunset over the waters.  Gather up the kids and walk along the beach in the early morning, but bring a bucket.  You'll find plenty of shells washed up on shore. Oh, yeah, and you can come back for the Festival of Lights to celebrate Edison's discovery of a little thing called a lightbulb.  Or, explore his house and botantical gardens. Sweet Viscape Fri, 24 Apr 2009 06:26:47 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1048880/fort-myers--fl https://activerain.com/blogsview/1048865/sanibel-captiva--fl Sanibel Island is a 12-mile long island, which you can get to by crossing a causeway from Fort Myers.  From Sanibel, you can head to Captiva Island by crossing a bridge.  Captiva Island is much smaller than Sanibel, but both are very popular among those headed for retirement.. Both islands are comprised of wildlife refuges.  But, if you're looking for a Sanibel vacation home, be prepared to fork out some dough.  It's the price that you pay to live in paradise.  You can walk or bike the islands and see the beauty that lies within the refuges.  Kayak down both fresh and salt waterways.  Or, collect shells along the beach.  This could be really fun to do with th kids. Sanibel's most famous landmark, the Sanibel Lighthouse, is at the eastern end of the island.  It's close to a fishing pier.  So, explore the lighthouse, and then grab a pole and catch some good fish! Sweet Viscape Fri, 24 Apr 2009 06:11:25 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1048865/sanibel-captiva--fl https://activerain.com/blogsview/1047193/going-to-destin--dude Destin is something of the Hawaii of the South.  People from Louisiana, Alabama or Mississippi flock to this sun mecca each year.  Of course, a lot of that could have to do with the fishing.  Destin, FL is home to Florida's largest charter fishing fleet.  Plus, there's plenty of chances to catch your own fish and savor the sweet taste of success. Located in the northwest corner of Florida, this once little fishing village has grown into a resort tourist town, one of the many along the Gulf of Mexico.  But, while many areas have become clogged with tourists and dirty in the process, Destin can still brag to have close to 26 miles of near pristine coast lines.  (So, be sure to book your Destin vacation rental close to this area!) Dine in the open air, and eat fresh-caught fish or some raw oysters as you watch the sunset over the Gulf.  There's plenty to be had in Destin. Sweet Viscape Thu, 23 Apr 2009 03:57:46 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1047193/going-to-destin--dude https://activerain.com/blogsview/1045621/breckenridge--co Breckenridge, CO is something of a contradiction.  If you walk down Main Street, you see all the Victorian buildings quaintly settled amongst high-end sports, clothing or gift shops.  Go a little further and Bubba Gump Shrimp Company sign hangs down like it got lost on its way to Louisiana. If you go during the winter, you may stumble upon the International Ice Carving festival, where you will be greeted with towering bears, humans or some random thing from both nature and man.  Then, there's the Breckeridge ski areas.  The crowded parking lots fill with people slipping on gear or pulling off suits after a long day on the mountain. On you're way out from Breckenridge, stop in Frisco and boat or parasail on Dillon Lake.  Plus, you just gotta see the little wooden house with all the antlers by the lake.  It stands like a stalwart between present and past. Sweet Viscape Wed, 22 Apr 2009 04:27:53 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1045621/breckenridge--co https://activerain.com/blogsview/1045601/san-diego Downtown San Diego has grown from a once-seedy Gaslamp Quarter to a hopping neighborhood of upscale restaurants, bars and clubs in restored Victorian commercial buildings. San Diego is a mixture of history of modern life. For entertainment, check out the Art & Design District in Little Italy for designer fashions, home decoration and contemporary furniture. Work your way through the Gaslamp Quarter and the neighboring areas. Go for a stroll along the walking path in the city’s busy harbor, past trawlers and aircraft carriers. Explore the 1,200-acre Balboa Park—the country’s largest urban cultural park and home to 15 museums, beautiful gardens, performing arts venues, and the San Diego Zoo. Sweet Viscape Wed, 22 Apr 2009 04:17:28 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1045601/san-diego https://activerain.com/blogsview/1044065/mammoth-is-mammoth-skiing My city lives in Los Angeles, and all you ever hear her talking about during the winter month is "having to go to Mammoth to ski".  It seems like many LA dwellers trek to mammoth in rain, sleet or snow when the winter weather is blaring. As mentioned, Mammoth, CA is a skier's paradise.  Plus, it's closeness to many major California cities makes it extremely popular during a down economy.  Since most people are traveling close to home to vacation, Mammoth is much cheaper than flying to Colorado, Utah or the Northeast. But, there's more to do in Mammoth than just skiing.  Explore the town and stroll amongst the many shops that line the streets.  Stay in a Mammoth vacation rental and sip some hot cocoa while you wait for your friends to join you.  Or bring the kids and build a few snowmen and just relax a bit. Sweet Viscape Tue, 21 Apr 2009 05:16:31 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1044065/mammoth-is-mammoth-skiing https://activerain.com/blogsview/1044034/jaco-beach---fun-in-the-sun-- When you think of Jaco Beach, Costa Rica, you should think of surfing.  The conditions in Jaco Beach are perfect for surfing.  A half hour's drive from San Jose, this area draws crowds who are looking to check out some narly waves or just watch the action from the shore. Playa Hermosa is a world famous surf spot featuring over 3.5 miles of beaches and is an amazing area to catch a few waves.  But, be forewarned; you may be running up against steep competition to get out on the waves.  This area has spring break crowds all year round.  So, you may have to move further down the beach to find some secluded spots. What's great about this area is that it knows its clientele.  The restaurants are surfer friendly, and there are plenty of Jaco Beach vacation rentals that are only a pebble throw from the beach.  So, grab the board, catch a wave and hang ten, dude! Sweet Viscape Tue, 21 Apr 2009 05:03:36 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1044034/jaco-beach---fun-in-the-sun-- https://activerain.com/blogsview/1042268/manuel-antonio--costa-rica If you love the outdoors (like I do!), you should definitely plan a trip to Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica.  It is a mixture of gorgeous mountains, rugged terrain and plenty of waterways for kayaking, boating or fishing.  One of the main attractions for the area is the Manuel Antonio National Park.  This lush peninsula found within the confines of agriculture and tourist areas.  Stroll along the peninsula and forget about life's troubles for a while. There are also plenty of quality Manuel Antonio vacation homes in the area, which will give a little bit of home within paradise.  Oh, and did I mention the beaches?  Well, with summer on its way, many people are thinking of lathering on some sun tan oil and heading out to lounge on the beach.  Here you have your choice of many, including North Espadilla Beach, South Espadilla Beach, Manuel Antonio Beach, Puerto Escondido Beach and Playitas Beach.  Make a sand castle, and watch it wash away.  Or explore the coral reefs that pocket the hidden bays. Sweet Viscape Mon, 20 Apr 2009 04:24:17 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1042268/manuel-antonio--costa-rica https://activerain.com/blogsview/1036807/san-jose-is-calling- San Jose is the capital of Costa Rica.  It's probably one of the most densely-populated areas of it as well.  If you've done your exploring of the gorgeous lushness of it all, come in to town to find food, fun and excitement. In San Jose, you should definitely plan a trip to El Pueblo.  It's host to more than 50 bars, restaurants and clubs.  Plus, there's plenty of placed to pick up gift shop items or take in the local art scene.  Better yet, these are all within walking distance of many resorts so you don't need to worry about renting a car. But, suppose that you want to try your hand at a bit of negotiating?  Then, head to the outdoor markets that dot the landscape of San Jose.  You'll enjoy the always gorgeous weather.  There are always a few afternoon showers, but it's nothing that a nice umbrella won't take care of! Sweet Viscape Thu, 16 Apr 2009 03:01:30 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1036807/san-jose-is-calling- https://activerain.com/blogsview/1036799/olympics-going-to-history-filled-london Plenty of history, fun people and did I mention beer?  That's right, we're talking about London, England.  Start of many of the TV shows that eventually wind up on American TV (The Office anyone?).  Plus, there's all those pubs. But, what trip planning should you be doing when heading to London.  Well, you could start at the bloody Tower of London.  Built in 1078 by William the Conqueror, this place has seen both brigands and gentlemen and prostitutes and queens.  Many a man and women spent their last days languishing in this oppressive encasement. Or, if this is a little too dark for you, tramp over to Westminster Abbey whose hallowed walls hold the remains of Charles Darwin and Mary Queen of Scots.  Stroll through Greenwich and get a feel for what history London has to offer.  Then, stop in a pub for some fish and chips (personally my favorite) and grab a pint.  And, if you're going to be in the area in 2012, join the Olympic fevor that is sure to run rampant in the streets of London as they host the Summer Games. Sweet Viscape Thu, 16 Apr 2009 02:51:30 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1036799/olympics-going-to-history-filled-london https://activerain.com/blogsview/1035477/bocas-del-toro--panama Bocas del Toro, Panama is located on the Caribbean side of the country near Costa Rica.  What sets this area apart is that while Bocas del Toro is visited by many people each year, it still retains its lushness and ecosystem.  Because of the diversity of wildlife and plant life, it has been labeled a World Heritage Site. While you can definitely get some hiking in while you're here, you should also check out Playa Bluff and do some relaxing on the beach.  Plus, there are plenty of restaurants and nightlife for those that hunger for a little more excitement. This area also has a healthy real estate market.  Bocas del Toro, Panama vacation rentals are well worth a peak and a stay.  And, you can rent one near Bastimentos Island and do some snorkeling while you're there and see close up the colorful fish that make this ecosystem their home. Bocas del Toro is still paradise, but also has plenty of the conveniences of modern life. Sweet Viscape Wed, 15 Apr 2009 05:45:54 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1035477/bocas-del-toro--panama