'Water' You Waiting For? Adventure Awaits in Colorado

White-water rafting and kayaking: They define Colorado adventure, help forge friendships and, right now, are roaring into action. Thanks to this winter's snow, Colorado's 13 river systems are in tiptop shape for the state's white-water season.



The rivers change in shape and feel each year because of the melted snow, or run-off. So water-lovers keep coming back each season for more surprises. From families seeking mellow float trips to experienced, death-defying thrill-seekers, people from all walks of life flex their paddle power on Colorado's rivers.

River experts say rafters and kayakers will be able to enjoy sustained flows throughout the entire 2005 season on the Cache la Poudre, Arkansas, Animas, Yampa, Green and Colorado rivers.

Flows are expected to be at their best across the state from mid-May to the end of June. Early season, in April, is the perfect time to catch the wildest white-water and beat the crowds, however. It also is the best time to catch the early-season deals. Toward the end of the season in July and August, meanwhile, is when smoother waters prevail -- making it perfect for float trips.

To experience a white-water adventure in Colorado, trek to the high country for an overnight trip, or take a day trip as part of a camping adventure to the mountains. Alternatively, gather a troop of weekend warriors and cash in on group discounts offered by most outfitters throughout the season.

Once there, get ready for the ride of your life. Colorado river guides know the rapids like the back of their hands, but they'll also make you laugh, cook for you and educate you on some of the flora and fauna indigenous to the area. Most river outfitters provide all of the gear you'll need. They are professional leaders and safety experts as well, so even if you are not a pro on the rapids, you can rest assured that someone is watching your back.

Visitors Guide to Phoenix, Arizona, USA

Standing on the northern side of the Sonoran Desert, in the aptly named 'Valley of the Sun' Phoenix is one of the most popular cities in Arizona.  Known for its extremely sunny weather and related winter tourist trade, Phoenix has much to offer visitors, with strip malls surrounding the downtown district.  Now amongst America's largest cities, Phoenix is a true metropolis, with many striking high-rise buildings in the city center, together with exceptional golf courses and impressive resort areas nearby.

Many of the attractions in Phoenix are situated in the downtown district, the heart of the city, where you will find notable restaurants, sporting venues and shops.  Other popular areas of the city include the business district, Old Phoenix, particularly around Heritage Square, and the Glendale area, which is home to many of the city's main museums and numerous well-preserved, historical structures.  The Mesa area of Phoenix contains a number of shopping malls, whereas Scottsdale boasts resorts and specialty shops.  For entertainment venues and a vibrant nightlife, be sure to head to Tempe, where you will not be disappointed.

Phoenix Tourism:
Tourism in the Phoenix area is well catered for, with many top attractions, a number of which are particularly appealing to families.  Ranging from historical ruins and sights, to amusement parks and major shopping centers, Phoenix offers plenty of things to see and places to go.  Top attractions include the Castles and Coasters theme park, the vast Phoenix Zoo, the historical St Mary's Basilica, the prehistoric Casa Grande ruins, Goldfield Ghost Town mining village, the Apache Trail, Piestewa Peak walking trails and the Phoenix Mountains Park and Recreation Center, known for its views of the famous Valley of the Sun.

The Phoenix area also contains its fair share of cultural museums and art galleries, with notable attractions including the Arizona Science Center, the Hall of Flame Fire Fighting Museum and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art.  Phoenix offers a range of festivals, which are held throughout the year, such as the Arabian Horse Show in February, the Scottsdale Arts Festival in March, the September National Public Lands Day Outdoor Recreation Fair, and the Way Out West Oktoberfest.

Phoenix Transport:
Interstates 10 and 17 provide good connections to a number of nearby cities, such as Flagstaff.  Many visitors to Phoenix choose to rent a car and this is one of the best ways to travel around the city and neighboring areas.  Public buses are also heavily used and the Downtown Area Shuttle, better known simply as 'DASH', connects many top tourist hotspots at no cost.

Close to the city's downtown district, Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is an important air hub and is connected to the city by shuttle buses and taxicabs.  This important international airport caters for many thousands of arrivals and departures each day and offers good ground transportation options.

Phoenix Hotels:
Hotels in the Phoenix area are in good supply and hotel rates are often cheapest during the summer months of July and August.  Winter is a particularly pleasant time to visit the city and accommodation becomes fully booked at the time of the year.

Phoenix Shopping:

With many expansive shopping malls, which always feature air conditioning, Phoenix is the perfect city for those who enjoy shopping.  All kinds of shops are well represented here, ranging from chain stores and department stores, to fashion boutiques and independent retailers.  Many of the city's main shops are concentrated in the Biltmore and Scottsdale districts.

Phoenix Restaurants:
Southwestern cuisine has long been popular in Phoenix, with more international offerings available throughout the city.  Restaurants offer a varied choice of food, although the many notable steakhouses are a must.  Clustered in the city center and in the older areas of Biltmore and Scottsdale, a number of eateries and bars can also be found in the lively University area.

Phoenix Weather:
Standing in the Sonoran Desert, Phoenix offers predictably sunny and hot temperatures, with over 300 days of sunshine each year.  Many people choose to visit the city during its warm winter months, particularly during January through March, when temperatures average 13°C / 55°F.  The summer months of July through September are the warmest, when temperature peak at 42°C / 108°F, although evening are much cooler.

Alaska: A Grand Destination

Most Americans would love to see Alaska, but have never gotten the chance to do so. There are many scenic pictures that can help to captivate the feeling that one might have when rolling across the crisp white snow with a dog-drawn sled. For the most part, it is not hard to find a picture or two of the pristine valleys and rivers, but to really see the land and wildlife up close and personal is a whole different story!

If and when you get the chance to step foot on the beautiful land that is known as Alaska, there are a few places that you will not want to miss on your journey. Listed below are a few of the most popular destinations while visiting Alaska.

If you ever get the chance to take a cruise to Alaska, it is absolutely recommended! There are many beautiful coastal cities that you can view on your way around Alaska, including: Skagway, Juneau and Fairbanks. When you get a look at the view from the deck of a ship, it is a scene that you will likely never forget.

The forests of Alaska can be just as memorable as the well known wildlife that calls it home. There are many glaciers and icebergs found in Alaska. For many visitors, it can be a very peaceful and surreal experience to visit Alaska. According to scientists, the glaciers of Alaska (with the exception of one) are shrinking in size, so if you want to see them for yourself, time is of the essence. They may seem huge right now, but in many years, they may well be a part of the water that surrounds Alaska.

If you are like most travelers, then one of the first things you may think of when someone mentions Alaska are the incredible mountains. Though there are many photographs of these mountains floating around, there is nothing like the incredible view in person!

Aside from the scenic points of view in Alaska, certain history is also of important note. If you were inclined, you may want to stop by a saloon or other historical attraction that were known as the building blocks of Alaska’s early settlement. Alaska was a key factor in the gold rush, too, so that is also an important part of it’s history to learn a little more about.

While sightseeing is a big part of the vacation process, it is also equally important to be properly prepared for your trip to Alaska. It is especially imperative that you are aware of the current weather conditions when you are packing and traveling. In a moment’s notice, it can become quite wet and cold in Alaska, so it is recommended that you keep a jacket near at all times.

In Alaska, there are times of the year that “never end”; sometimes, the sun doesn’t set for weeks at a time! These times of the year really help with the development of Alaska’s fruits and vegetables. Alaska is acknowledged as having beautiful crops of lettuce and strawberries.

When you are trying to think of a destination for your next family vacation, remember Alaska! There are a ton of activities and things to see in Alaska, so boredom should never have the chance to set in. If you are making a list of things to do while you are in Alaska, try including these things:

Snowmobiling

Mountain Biking

Hunting

Kayaking

Humpback Whale Watching

Fishing

Helicopter/Plane Tour

Attend Current Festivals

Catch the Moonrise/Moonset

When you are on your vacation in the beautiful land of Alaska, make sure you take plenty of pictures! Be sure to pack enough film and/or memory cards and travel accessories for your camera so that you don’t miss a second of your trip.

Now that we have observed everything that makes Alaska so special, I think I am ready to book a cruise. What about you?