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<channel>
	<title>Independent Escapes</title>
	<atom:link href="http://www.independentescapes.com/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://www.independentescapes.com</link>
	<description>Travel blog with great travel guide, travel information, destinations and travel tips for the independent traveler.</description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 24 Dec 2008 14:39:06 +0000</pubDate>
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	<language>en</language>
			<item>
		<title>Exploring The Sea</title>
		<link>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/exploring-the-sea/</link>
		<comments>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/exploring-the-sea/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 24 Dec 2008 14:39:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>putraz</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Travel Guide]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Bermuda]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Bermuda Island]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Caribbean]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[cruise]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Cruises]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[destination]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[family]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Holiday]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[information]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[sea]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[site]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.independentescapes.com/?p=82</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Holiday is coming and it is your show time to explore all holiday events in your area but your family asking you to find out the other experience of holiday. They want to the sea for this holiday and you think that it is a good idea to have new experience. If you are going [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Holiday is coming and it is your show time to explore all holiday events in your area but your family asking you to find out the other experience of holiday. They want to the sea for this holiday and you think that it is a good idea to have new experience. If you are going to spend your holiday by exploring the sea then you need you think about cruise and this is the best place to find out much more information about cruises.</p>
<p>This site gives you a wonderful holiday experience and they also give luxury facilities on the cruise. For example <a href="http://www.directlinecruises.com/" target="_blank">Caribbean cruises</a> offer you cruise guide that you can explore like cruise deals, blogs, facts, how to book and many more. Absolutely you will not find any difficulties because you can start search for the destination, sailing date and departure port. They also offer you <a href="http://www.directlinecruises.com/bermudamenu2006b.htm" target="_blank">Bermuda Cruises</a> which will bring you explore Bermuda Island to see the exotic of Bermuda paradise.</p>
<p>If you want to have real experience of cruising you can find out about <a href="http://www.directlinecruises.com/royal_caribbean_cruises.htm" target="_blank">Royal Caribbean</a> Cruises because it will give you the true luxury cruising. If you are interested in this cruising, you just have to visit them at directlinecruises.com then find out much more information about cruising and be sure that you will have wonderful holiday.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.directlinecruises.com/royal_caribbean_cruises.htm" target="_blank"><img class="alignnone" src="http://www.directlinecruises.com/images/royalcaribbeanphotos-2007.gif" alt="" width="566" height="121" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
		<title>Tropical Area – The Best Honeymoon Place</title>
		<link>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/tropical-area-%e2%80%93-the-best-honeymoon-place/</link>
		<comments>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/tropical-area-%e2%80%93-the-best-honeymoon-place/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 10 Dec 2008 08:05:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>putraz</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Destinations]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Travel Guide]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[cottage]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[earth]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[easytahiti]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[experience]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[guide]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Holiday]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[honeymoon]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[hotel]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[information]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[island]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[life]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Moorea]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Myth Island]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[paradise]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[place]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[site]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[tahiti]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Tropical]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.independentescapes.com/?p=79</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Honeymoon will be the priceless thing you have and of course you want the best and unforgettable honeymoon in your life. No matter it is the first, second or third honeymoon. To have the unforgettable honeymoon, you should choose the best place to spend your honeymoon time and be sure that you will have the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft" src="http://booking.easytahiti.com/images_w/easytahiti/specials/HON-2PPT-6MOZ-thumb.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="150" align="left" />Honeymoon will be the priceless thing you have and of course you want the best and unforgettable honeymoon in your life. No matter it is the first, second or third honeymoon. To have the unforgettable honeymoon, you should choose the best place to spend your honeymoon time and be sure that you will have the wonderful moment in whole life.</p>
<p>Have you ever think about have honeymoon in the other side of the earth? You may look for Tahiti. It is a paradise which you can spend your wonderful with your couple and absolutely, Tahiti provides some facilities related to honeymoon moment. Besides, there are also Moorea, only 12 miles <a href="http://www.easytahiti.com/moorea-2.html" target="_blank">travel to Moorea</a> from Tahiti. <img class="alignright" src="http://www.easytahiti.com/static/tahiti_us/taravao_tahiti.jpg" alt="" width="184" height="266" align="right" />There are so many activities which you can do with your couple; Moorea has beautiful lagoons, tropical gardens, wonderful bays and many more. The other experience that you can have is have your <a href="http://www.easytahiti.com/Honeymoon-Romance-Package/" target="_blank">honeymoon in Bora Bora</a>, it is famous as Myth Island which known as created by gods. You do not have to worry about the superstitious that exist there because the island has many beautiful things that you can explore. Absolutely, you do not want to miss those places and for further information you may see easytahiti.com to get the easiest way of wonderful honeymoon. Of course this site also gives you some references about the hotel or cottage that you can use. Be sure that it will be your greatest moment honeymoon with your couple and you can enjoy it very much. There are no better places except having your honeymoon in the tropical area.</p>
<p>The site also gives <a href="http://www.easytahiti.com/tahiti-2.html" target="_blank">Tahiti guide</a> to lead you in getting your wonderful honeymoon. For further information you may see the site before and you will be satisfied by its information. Be sure that this moment will be your best moment with your couple.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.easytahiti.com/moorea-2.html" target="_blank"><img class="alignnone" src="http://www.easytahiti.com/photos/5e4165f6bbdfab91b116cd1708f093f1_vignette-IC-Tahiti.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="105" /></a> <a href="http://www.easytahiti.com/tahiti-2.html" target="_blank"><img class="alignnone" src="http://www.easytahiti.com/photos/da9d9b5ec651fd93595dfa4d4d79cef8_vignette-sheratontahiti.gif" alt="" width="169" height="105" /></a> <a href="http://www.easytahiti.com/tahiti-2.html" target="_blank"><img class="alignnone" src="http://www.easytahiti.com/photos/6e7f771365520e89e43e13c46977f3e0_vignette-tepari.jpg" alt="" width="168" height="105" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Paris Hotel</title>
		<link>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/paris-hotel/</link>
		<comments>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/paris-hotel/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 03 Dec 2008 13:49:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>putraz</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Europe]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Hotels]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Travel Guide]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[assurance]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Bordeaux]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[fashion]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[hotel]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Paris]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[world]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.independentescapes.com/?p=77</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Paris is a very beautiful city and attracting place in this world that you can visit. It is famous with its fashion style and it has many great places to be visited. If you are about visiting Paris, you will have many Paris hotel to be chosen during your visit. If you want to have [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Paris is a very beautiful city and attracting place in this world that you can visit. It is famous with its fashion style and it has many great places to be visited. If you are about visiting Paris, you will have many <a href="http://www.bedandbreakfastparis.biz">Paris hotel</a> to be chosen during your visit. If you want to have a different experience living in Paris, you can choose a place like <a href="http://www.freereservation.fr">bed and breakfast Bordeaux</a> in stead of hotel. They will give you the experience being a Parisian. They will give you the <a href="http://www.assuranceviedeces.fr">assurance vie</a> because the are the best in your Paris staying.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Flying with Children</title>
		<link>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/flying-with-children/</link>
		<comments>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/flying-with-children/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2008 02:03:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>putraz</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Family Travel]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Travel Tips]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[airport]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Chicago]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Children]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Dallas]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[entertainment]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[flight]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[food]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[home]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[International]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Las Vegas]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Plan]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Resort]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[ticket]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[trip]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[US]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Vacation]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Winter Holidays]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.independentescapes.com/?p=70</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Winter Holidays are almost upon us and that means travelers are flying the skies and returning home or going on a much needed vacation. This week we’ll provide you with some helpful tips and suggestions to make the flight process a little less painful.
For those traveling with children, here are a some things to [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.independentescapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/travel_flight_flying_with_children.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-71" src="http://www.independentescapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/travel_flight_flying_with_children.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" align="left" /></a>The Winter Holidays are almost upon us and that means travelers are flying the skies and returning home or going on a much needed vacation. This week we’ll provide you with some helpful tips and suggestions to make the flight process a little less painful.</p>
<p>For those traveling with children, here are a some things to think about preparing before take-off:</p>
<p>1. Make sure to allow yourself a little more time to reach the airport and get through the check-in process. Children can forget things at the last minute , have to stop for bathroom breaks, or simply walk slower in a rush, so make sure you have plenty of time to catch your flight.</p>
<p>2. Think about your trip from start to finish when packing for your little ones. For babies, carrying breast milk, formula, and juice is now permitted in quantities greater than three ounces if it is declared for inspection at the security checkpoint, according to the U.S. Transportation Security Administration. Make sure to check in with your specific airline about their food accommodations for children as some do not provide baby food or special children’s meals, so pack food accordingly.</p>
<p>(For the slightly older children, most airlines have coloring books, movies, and other entertainment available, though remember to bring something to keep the children occupied in the Waiting Area at the airport so they don’t resort to fighting with their siblings and making a scene, or worse, venturing off.)<br />
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3. Bring the appropriate documents for your children. Though typically, minors under 18 do not have to present identification for domestic U.S. travel, each airline determines their own identification requirements for check-in, so ask your airline before packing. For international flights, the Federal Aviation Administration states that all travelers must have passports, including young children. Plan early because receiving a passport generally takes approximately three weeks from the time of application, but depending on the season can take longer.</p>
<p>4. Do not assume that your infant or young child does not need a ticket or rides for free. Each airline follows their own policy in regards to child passengers, though most do offer discounts of up to 50 percent for children less than two years old.</p>
<p>Also, Child Restraint Systems are normally required for children under 40 pounds and not always provided by the airlines. If you are required to bring your own Child Restraint System, look for one that has a sticker which states: “FAA Approved in Accordance with 14CFR 21.305(d), Approval for Aircraft Use Only.”</p>
<p>Though airport accommodations won’t determine your trip, there are a few particular cities whose airports make flying with children easier. The Boston Logan International airport has a “Kidport” which includes a baggage claim slide, infant and toddler area, and other activities. Dallas/Fort Worth International has built children’s play areas in three of the airport terminals. Other child-friendly airports include Las Vegas McCarran airport and Chicago O’Hare International.</p>
<p>(<a href="http://blog.realtravel.com/2008/11/17/flying-with-children/" target="_blank">link</a>)</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Travel Jamaica</title>
		<link>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/travel-jamaica/</link>
		<comments>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/travel-jamaica/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 05 Nov 2008 17:55:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>putraz</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Africa]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Destinations]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[adventure]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Caribbean Island]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Caribbean Islands]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[coast]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[dining]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[English]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[entertainment]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Fishing]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Jamaica]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Montego Bay]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[music]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[nightlife]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[reggae]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Resort]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[scuba]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[sport]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[swimming]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[tourist]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[US]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Vacation]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.independentescapes.com/?p=50</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Jamaica is one of the most beautiful of the Caribbean Islands, as you will see if you ever are fortunate enough to vacation there. Their beautiful white sand beaches and distinct Island culture make it a place worth visiting.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-54" title="travel_jamaica" src="http://www.independentescapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/travel_jamaica-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" align="left" />Jamaica is one of the most beautiful of the Caribbean Islands, as you will see if you ever are fortunate enough to vacation there. Their beautiful white sand beaches and distinct Island culture make it a place worth visiting.</p>
<p>The tranquil beaches surrounded by crystal clear ocean waters make it an ideal spot for sun-lovers and water sport enthusiasts alike. The visitor can indulge in fishing, wind surfing, snorkelling, scuba diving, or swimming. They can hire fishing boats or sailboats for further adventure, or there are also many other attractions that can keep the Jamaican vacationer happy.</p>
<p>Evening entertainment offers fine dining at your resort, or more leisurely choices at local bars, roadside stands or hotspots.  Of course, trying the spicy local flavours that Jamaica is famous for, such as jerk pork, curry chicken or a hot Jamaican Pattie, is not to be missed. They also offer wonderful seafood dishes, from lobster to crab delicacies. Try them all, and follow it up with a smooth rum punch made with true Jamaican rum.</p>
<p>Nightlife in Jamaica is certainly ‘hopping’ with their unique reggae music. Vacationers can sway to and fro to the beat of famous Jamaican artists like Bob Marley at the local bars and nightclubs.</p>
<p>Meeting people in Jamaica is easy because of their warm, friendly people. Jamaican’s come from a rich, diverse culture blended from around the world. Their motto “Out of Many, One People” sums it all up.  The language spoken in Jamaica is English, but you will often hear slang or “Patois” which often sounds like a foreign language. The commonly heard phrase of “Irie mon” simply means everything is cool or good.<br />
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Jamaica has its own currency, the Jamaican Dollar, but US money is widely accepted.</p>
<p>The best tourist spots to visit are on the north coast. Montego Bay and Ocho Rios are the most popular, but Negril, which is located on the west coast, is also widely visited.  A must-see in Ocho Rios is the famous Dunn’s River Falls, where visitors, lead by a Jamaican guide, can climb up a series of cascading falls. The location is certainly picturesque and vacationers can have fun experiencing the adventure of the climb.</p>
<p>Montego Bay, Jamaica’s second largest city and the original tourist hotspot, also features many attractions for visitors. They offer plantation tours, one of which is to the great Wyndham Rose Hall Plantation, and bamboo river rafting. There is charter fishing, cycling, golfing, horseback riding, scuba diving, or many other vacation activities, as well as the gorgeous beaches.</p>
<p>Negril has a wide expanse of pure white sand beaches perfect for lounging in the sun. It has been labelled the “Capital of Casual” and some of the beaches are even clothing-optional. Scuba diving in Negril is said to be Jamaica’s best, but other visitors can enjoy deep-sea fishing, parasailing, glass bottom boat trips, catamaran cruises or other water activities. And, an exciting place for visitors is the famous Rick’s Café where you can relax with a drink and watch the cliff divers, or better yet, be more adventurous and brave the cliffs yourself.</p>
<p>Visiting Jamaica’s sparkling azure waters and beautiful white sand beaches is a must on any vacationer’s agenda. And, experiencing the unique culture of this Caribbean Island is one a tourist will not easily forget.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Travel to Cuba</title>
		<link>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/travel-to-cuba/</link>
		<comments>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/travel-to-cuba/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2008 20:03:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>putraz</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[America]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Destinations]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Diving]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Fishing]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Caribbean]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Caribbean Island]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Cuba]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[entertainment]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[food]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Havana]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[nightlife]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[scuba]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[seafood]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[swimming]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[tourist]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[trip]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Vacation]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.independentescapes.com/?p=48</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Cuba is an enchanting Caribbean vacation spot that is virtually undiscovered. The pristine white sand beaches and crystal blue waters are a vacationer’s delight. And, the snorkeling and scuba diving is second to none. Cuba has a vast amount of rich culture, spectacular sunsets and memorable experiences to offer the tourist.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-57" title="cuba_vacation" src="http://www.independentescapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/cuba_vacation-300x224.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="224" align="left" />Cuba is an enchanting Caribbean vacation spot that is virtually undiscovered. The pristine white sand beaches and crystal blue waters are a vacationer’s delight.  And, the snorkeling and scuba diving is second to none. Cuba has a vast amount of rich culture, spectacular sunsets and memorable experiences to offer the tourist.</p>
<p>Due to the fact that Cuba is a relative newcomer to the vacation marketplace, prices for all-inclusive packages are usually very reasonable.  The resorts there offer all the same amenities you can expect at other places, including spectacular free-form swimming pools (many with swim-up bars), great service, white sand beaches, water sports, fishing, night clubs, local entertainment, arts and craft markets, and much more.  Most resorts offer all-inclusive packages that include flights, meals, drinks and entertainment.</p>
<p>Cuba has more of a “family” vacation spot appeal and does not normally have the large crowds and exciting nightlife that many other vacation spots have to offer.  On a Cuban vacation, you can expect more of a relaxing getaway, although most resorts still have nightclubs and disco’s and some night-time entertainment if you want it.</p>
<p>In the past, Cuban food has been identified as being typically bad, but a lot of improvement has been made in this area in recent years.  Of course, some resorts have better food than others. There always seems to be, though, something on the menu or buffet to please most guests.  Some resorts offer food as good as or better than other Caribbean Island vacation spots, and feature great seafood with lobster, crab, shrimp, and squid. Other resorts, though, offer more down-home Cuban cooking that is a little more on the casual side.<br />
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Cuba’s various locations along the coastline offer different attractions.  The tourist can expect off-resort excursions to go swimming with dolphins, catamaran cruises, jungle tours, and historic site visits.</p>
<p>A least one day trip to Havana is a must for any vacationer to Cuba. Havana offers an old historic backdrop of beautiful architectural buildings. Traveling there is like taking a trip to the past with old cars from the 50’s and 60’s touring the streets against the magnificent (although a bit run-down) historic buildings. Visitors in Havana can attend museums, cigar making factories, art and craft markets, perfume making establishments, and much more.</p>
<p>Another interesting place to see in Havana is Ernest Hemingway’s hang-out. The hotel features many photos and memorabilia of this award-winning author, and the tourist can visit the rooms where he wrote “To Whom the Bell Tolls”.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Travel to Panama</title>
		<link>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/travel-to-panama/</link>
		<comments>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/travel-to-panama/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 04 Oct 2008 19:38:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>putraz</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[America]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Destinations]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Shopping]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[adventure]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Aruba]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[beach]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Caribbean]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Central America]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Dominican Republic]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Holiday]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Jamaica]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Panama]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Panama City]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Puerto Rico]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Resort]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[spot]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Tours]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Transit]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Vacation]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[world]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.independentescapes.com/?p=46</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are many exotic vacation spots in the Caribbean that almost everyone is aware of, like Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Aruba, etc.—just to mention a few. Not many think of Panama as a warm beach spot to visit.  But, it is a very exciting and memorable spot for a great vacation.
First and foremost, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-60" src="http://www.independentescapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/panama_travel_vacation.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="200" align="left" />There are many exotic vacation spots in the Caribbean that almost everyone is aware of, like Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Aruba, etc.—just to mention a few. Not many think of Panama as a warm beach spot to visit.  But, it is a very exciting and memorable spot for a great vacation.</p>
<p>First and foremost, the history of Panama and the Panama Canal is fascinating, even though we won’t get into a big history lesson here,  the Panama Canal is a marvel in engineering and one of the most significant waterways in the world.</p>
<p>The canal stretches from Panama City on the Pacific coast to Colon on the Atlantic side, and is 80 km (or 50 miles) in length.  Over 12,000 ocean-going vessels use the canal per year, nudging their way through the narrow canal and rising up and down in the various locks to compensate for the difference in elevation between the two oceans.  There are vast tracts of virgin jungle on both sides of the canal.  It is truly an unforgettable sight to see the huge ships pass through the locks.  It is a must-see when visiting Panama.</p>
<p>The Mira Flores, Locks, located on the Pacific coast, is on the northeastern fringe of Panama City.  A platform offers visitors a good view of the locks in operation and has a very interesting museum attached.<br />
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The City and Canal tour offered by local tour companies is a wonderful tour of Panama City as well as the Mira Flores Locks in action.  There are also Partial Transit Tours of about four hours in length which start in Gamboa, located at the north end of the Gaillard Cut where the Chagres River flows into the Canal.  Your vessel would pass through the Pedro Miguel Locks and the Mara Flores Locks, where the vessel is lowered 18 metres in two steps, and your voyage would end at the beautiful Flamenco Marina.</p>
<p>There is also a full canal tour onboard the Pacific Queen, where you can experience the canal in close operation.  This would be a once in a lifetime adventure where you could feel the sensation of going up or down in the locks in order to get from one ocean to the other.  A visitor can also take a rail adventure where you tour along-side the Canal while sitting comfortably on a train.</p>
<p>Panama City is also worth visiting.  The city is split between the modern, thriving commercial center stretching 10 km (6 miles) along the Pacific coast and the old district of San Felipe, an area of decaying colonial grandeur.  San Felipe juts into the sea on the southwestern side of town, and represents replicas of houses of the three most important cultures of the country: the Spanish, the Indian and the Afro-Antillan. The old-world architecture is beautiful and in many places is being restored to its original grandeur.  The tour of the old district should not be missed.</p>
<p>Located in the modern part of Panama City is the Multicentro, Central America’s largest shopping mall with over 250 stores.  Panama City is famous for its shopping and offers a wide variety of merchandise including shoes, purses, sports articles, souvenirs, clothes, china, etc.  There is also a large casino located directly inside the mall.</p>
<p>Panama boasts some of the greatest ‘eco’ sightseeing in the world with the Panamanian Rainforest. Over 300 species of birds have been seen in a day, and Panama offers terrific bird-watching with species such as the iris-beaked toucan, the tangara and the white-tailed sparrow hawk to mention a few.  According to studies by the National Panamanian University and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, the mountains of basaltic rock at altitude contribute to the rich diversity of species.</p>
<p>Panama also offers a two-centre holiday option—for a one week vacation you stay five nights at the Royal Decameron Beach Resort and two nights at the Gamboa Rainforest Resort.  That would gives the vacationer both a beach holiday and the ‘eco’ experience.  This two-centre option is only offered at certain times of the year.</p>
<p>Other tours that may be of interest are the Jungle Boat Tour, the Canopy Adventure Tour (where you can ride the treetops in an eco adventure), or the Anton Valley Adventure where you visit an extinct volcano, a zoo and botanical garden, and a crafts market offering handmade crafts by local villagers.<br />
Other parts of Panama offers deep-sea fishing, sunset sailboat cruises, Panama Express train to Colon, or scuba diving.  In short, there are endless possibilities for adventure and fun in Panama and at fairly reasonable rates too.</p>
<p>The people of Panama are very pleasant and companionable.  Although Spanish is the official language, English is widely spoken. Often times the local people speak English so well it is hard to tell if they are locals or not.</p>
<p>Panama has two seasons, the dry season (January to mid-April) and the rainy season (mid-April to December).  It is best to keep these seasons in mind when planning your vacation. It may also be advisable to take a small traveling umbrella just in case.  They don’t call it the rain forest for nothing!<br />
Temperatures are around 80-90? F (25-30? C) and are fairly consistent year-round, although nights are usually cooler. The equatorial sun is intense in Panama and care should be taken to use sunscreen.  It is even possible to get a sunburn sitting under the canopy on the beach.</p>
<p>Visiting Panama is really an enjoyable experience, especially when you take into account the history of Panama City and the Canal.  A vacationer visiting here will not be disappointed.</p>
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		<title>Dominican Republic</title>
		<link>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/dominican-republic/</link>
		<comments>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/dominican-republic/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Sep 2008 19:19:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>putraz</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[America]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Destinations]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Fishing]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[beach]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Caribbean]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Cuba]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[cuisine]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[fish]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[island]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Puerto Rico]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[seafood]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[water]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[world]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.independentescapes.com/?p=44</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Caribbean nation of the Dominican Republic is part of the island of Hispaniola in the Greater Antilles archipelago.  Hispaniola lies west of Puerto Rico and east of Cuba.  The Dominican Republic makes up the eastern third of Hispaniola, and the nation of Haiti makes up the other part of the island.
For most [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-63" src="http://www.independentescapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/fishing-sailboat-bayahibe-la-romana-dominican-republic-300x168.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="168" align="left" />The Caribbean nation of the Dominican Republic is part of the island of Hispaniola in the Greater Antilles archipelago.  Hispaniola lies west of Puerto Rico and east of Cuba.  The Dominican Republic makes up the eastern third of Hispaniola, and the nation of Haiti makes up the other part of the island.</p>
<p>For most of its history, the Dominican Republic has experienced political turmoil and unrest and has suffered through many non-representative and tyrannical governments.  The present-day nation has moved toward representative democracy.</p>
<p>The island is a classed as tropical maritime with a wet season from May to November. It can also be prone to hurricanes in season, from June to November.</p>
<p>Like its Caribbean neighbors, Dominican Republic is made up of a blend of European colonists, Tainos Indians and Africans.  The official language spoken there is Spanish, with Haitian Creole, English, French, German and Italian also heard in varying degrees.<br />
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The cuisine of Dominican Republic is made up of a combination of Spanish, Taino and African influences and is similar to that of other Latin American cultures.  Lunch is usually the main meal of the day, with chicken, pork or fish being commonly served.  Meat or seafood, rice, potatoes or plantains, served with some type of vegetable or salad makes up a typical meal.  Sofrito, which is a mix of local herbs and spices, is a common ingredient in many dishes.</p>
<p>One of the main features that draws tourists to Dominican Republic is its fantastic beaches.  There are more than 1,000 miles of fine sandy beaches found in this nation with clear warm seas washing up against them. Dominican Republic’s beaches are thought to be among the world’s best.  The east coast is lined with super fine white sand beaches, while the beaches of the north are made up of golden sand.  In the west in Barahona, the sand is more a grayish color.</p>
<p>Dominican Republic is widely populated with resorts that host a full array of water sports on its many beaches.  The east coast beaches consist of Isla Catalina,  Isla Saona, Playa Bayaro, Punta Cana, Playa Cominicus and Playa Minitas.  Isla Catalina offers one of the best coral reefs in the area for scuba diving and snorkeling. Punta Cana is known for its 30 mile strip of super fine white sand beach and is often referred to as the ‘coconut coast’ due to the many swaying coconut palm trees scattered along its length.  Punta Cana is this regions most popular vacation resort area.</p>
<p>The north coast beaches of Cabarete, Playa Cofresi, Playa Dorada, Playa Grande, Playa Punta Rucia and Playa Sosua are great for sunbathing, kite-boarding and wind surfing. In fact, Cabaret is listed as one of the top five kite-boarding and wind surfing areas in the world. Visitors to this area can also enjoy golfing, boogie-boarding, body-surfing and all manner of other sun and water activities.</p>
<p>There are a number of beaches located in the north east of Dominican Republic, with Playa Rincon topping the list.  This beach as been ranked as one of the world’s ten best beaches and many consider it to be the most beautiful on the entire island.  It is over three miles long, surrounded by coconut and almond trees, with a 2,000 foot mountain located at one end. It is an isolated beach that is accessible by boat.</p>
<p>Where-ever you go in Dominican Republic, the beaches will be the highlight of your stay.  With the turquoise waves washing up on the super-fine sandy shores, a fantastic beach vacations surely awaits you here.</p>
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		<title>Bermuda</title>
		<link>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/bermuda/</link>
		<comments>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/bermuda/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 27 Sep 2008 19:08:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>putraz</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Africa]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Culture]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Destinations]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Fishing]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Asia]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Atlantic]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Australia]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[beach]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Bermuda]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Caribbean]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[city of hamilton]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[colony]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[cricket]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[cuisine]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[fish]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[music]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[nature]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[pink beaches]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[pink sands]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[reggae]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[scuba]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Shopping]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[shore park]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[world]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[worldwide]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.independentescapes.com/?p=42</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[With a unique blend of colonial history and African charm, Bermuda has an old-world charm. Being Britain’s oldest colony, British influences dominate the island’s culture.  Here you may walk down a street in the City of Hamilton and see a judge in a powdered wig, or witness a bobby directing traffic or stop to [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.independentescapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/bermuda_beach_vacation.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-68" src="http://www.independentescapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/bermuda_beach_vacation-300x196.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="196" align="left" /></a>With a unique blend of colonial history and African charm, Bermuda has an old-world charm. Being Britain’s oldest colony, British influences dominate the island’s culture.  Here you may walk down a street in the City of Hamilton and see a judge in a powdered wig, or witness a bobby directing traffic or stop to watch a cricket match. Or you could find African influences in the reggae music and spicy cuisine.</p>
<p>Although Bermuda seems like one long landmass, it is actually made up of 181 islands, islets and rock formed by lava millions of years ago.  Most of the smaller islands are uninhabited, but eight of the larger ones are joined by bridges and one causeway to form what visitors know to be Bermuda.  The geographical terrain is made up of low, rolling hills and relatively flat land, with what many believe to be the most exquisite coastline in the Atlantic.</p>
<p>Bermuda is known for its pink sand beaches, which exists in only a few places worldwide.  The pink beaches are formed by the colored particles that wash ashore from the tropical coral reefs surrounding the south side of the island. Almost all of the southern shore has the spectacular blushing pink sands, but South Shore Park features the greatest concentration.  South Shore Park, a public beachfront area, extends from Warwick Long Bay to Horseshoe Bay, and includes several secluded coves. Many hotels and resorts along this beachfront have private beach oases for their guests.</p>
<p>Bermuda offers an abundance of fish and other marine species for underwater lovers to enjoy.  They have everything from anemones to humpback whales that frequent the sparkling clear waters.  A vast barrier reef, which is one of the northern-most in the world, is home to an abundance of sea life and corals, and is a rich find for snorkelers and scuba divers alike.<br />
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The island offers many things for a tourist to do.  For the sun lover, the fantastic beaches offer relaxing public and private sun-bathing, along with spa treatments and have many food and beverage stands.  The more active visitor can enjoy body surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, golfing, or kayaking, just to name a few activities. Exploring more than 400 shipwrecks while diving is a treat for any visitor to Bermuda. In fact, Bermuda is called the “shipwreck capital of the Atlantic”. And divers can also see more than 650 species of fish.</p>
<p>Shopping is also a popular activity for island visitors.  Bermuda is well known as an international shopping destination, and there is no sales tax to be paid here—the price you see is the price you pay.  Popular items include handcrafted gold trinkets, cedar-wood gifts, and of course, Bermuda shorts.</p>
<p>For those who love sightseeing, Bermuda offers a great deal.  Bermuda has more churches per capita than anywhere else.  The visitor can see any one of the many ancient forts built by the British, or visit one of the 785 historic houses.  There are Botanical Gardens to see, or the Royal Naval Dockyard (an active naval base during the War of 1812), or even a perfumery to visit.</p>
<p>Bermuda also has an abundance of wildlife for the nature lover.  Their world-famous bird watching can include 360 different species of birds.  There are many nature reserves with exotic flora and fauna, as well as underground caves to explore.  A visitor can also splash around with the dolphins at the Bermuda Maritime Museum.  They even have a zoo with animals from the Caribbean, Australia, Asia, Madagascar and the Galapagos.</p>
<p>There are art galleries to view, craft studios to shop in, local cinemas, and classical and modern dance and music productions performed throughout the year.  The annual Bermuda Festival of the Performing Arts is always popular.</p>
<p>With all that Bermuda has to offer, it is no wonder that it is an extremely popular vacation spot.  Imagine sitting on the soft pink coral sands, enjoying the warm breezes that drift across the sparkling waters as the dolphins play and the bountiful fish swim nearby.</p>
<p>(<a href="http://www.wilcoblog.com">wilco</a>)</p>
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		<title>A Family Vacation in St. Lucia</title>
		<link>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/a-family-vacation-in-st-lucia/</link>
		<comments>http://www.independentescapes.com/blog/a-family-vacation-in-st-lucia/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 23 Sep 2008 18:53:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>putraz</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Destinations]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Diving]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Europe]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Family Travel]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Fishing]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Skiing]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Surfing]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[basketball]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[beach]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[beautiful island]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[caribbean vacation]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[cricket grounds]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[cricket season]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[deep sea fishing]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[dive]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[game fish]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Holiday]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[land sports]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[soccer games]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[travel]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[trip]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Vacation]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[water]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[water skiing]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[whale]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Windsurfing]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[world]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[yacht charters]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.independentescapes.com/?p=40</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you are planning a Caribbean vacation, St. Lucia is sure to provide a memorable one for you and your family.  St. Lucia can provide a wonderful beach vacation with lots of rest and relaxation for adults and a whole lot of excitement and outdoor fun for the children.  Many hotels on the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If you are planning a Caribbean vacation, St. Lucia is sure to provide a memorable one for you and your family.  St. Lucia can provide a wonderful beach vacation with lots of rest and relaxation for adults and a whole lot of excitement and outdoor fun for the children.  Many hotels on the island are geared for families and offer special features like kids clubs, special meals for children, and cater to sleeping arrangements with beds and cots (or adjoining rooms) to accommodate families.  And the beautiful beach coastline is rimmed with rain-forested mountains making it a fantastic sight to discover.</p>
<p>But, what is there to do in St. Lucia?  Well first off, there are the land sports. St. Lucia offers volleyball, basketball and soccer games, between staff and guests, at most hotels. Vacationers can attend soccer, volleyball, basketball, table tennis, running races or swimming tournaments that are regularly offered on the island. Most hotels also offer squash or tennis courts for their guests. And, although the cricket season is from March to August, guests can enjoy the friendly matches held year-round throughout the island.  St. Lucia is home to the Beausejour Cricket Grounds which is world renown.</p>
<p>The water sports available on this beautiful island are not to be missed either.  Sailors and fishermen will love St. Lucia as it has been described as “an angler’s dream come true.”  St. Lucia is home to several species of big game fish and it is not uncommon to bring home a white marlin trophy. There are many companies that provide guests with the enjoyment of deep-sea fishing or yacht charters.<br />
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Then there are the beaches…fine white sand beaches lined with gently swaying palm trees beside crystal clear warm waves lapping against them.  The clear waters make for excellent snorkeling or diving opportunities.  This island is well-known for some of the best underwater dive sites in the Caribbean.</p>
<p>Or how about a different view?  Windsurfing, water skiing and para-sailing are also available.  Advanced and intermediate windsurfers will enjoy the popular wave sites at Cas en Bas and Vieus Fort, while beginners can try the calmer waters of the west coast. Equipment and instruction are available at most hotels on the island. Para-sailers can be thrilled with an aerial view of this spectacular island as they soar above Rodney Bay.</p>
<p>St. Lucia also offers some voyages of discovery. Vacationers can visit Marigot Bay, a wonderful natural harbor that once provided a hideout for pirate ships.  Another popular spot is the Maria Islands Nature Reserve, which are tiny islands located in Southern St. Lucia and are home to rare wildlife and birds.  Some species that make this reserve their home exist nowhere else in the world.  There is also the Pigeon Island Museum and Interpretive Centre which is a ‘hands-on’ representation of Pigeon Island’s history from the 1800’s.</p>
<p>Another attraction that may be of interest to St. Lucia visitors is whale or turtle watching.  St. Lucia is recognized as a major whale watching site and over 20 species of whales are spotted regularly throughout the year, including sperm whales, pilot whales, humpback whales and spinning and spotted dolphins.  There are also an abundance of turtles that make St. Lucia their home, and these fascinating creatures are protected by local environmental activists.</p>
<p>St. Lucia received the ‘2000 Ecotourism Award’ for its Heritage Tourism Programme and received the OECS Vacation Paradise Award which makes it one of the top family vacation destinations in the Caribbean.</p>
<p>If you choose to visit St. Lucia, you will not be disappointed.  The sensational beaches and the fantastic water activities will be sure to please the entire family, not to mention the many attractions found on the island.</p>
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