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Sedona's #1 Pizza

  Pizza, Sub’s, Salads, and More Besides pizza, the menu has grown to feature items such as New York hoagies, to-die-for calzones, fresh crisp salads, chicken dinner, juicy hamburgers, pasta favorites, and more.

Moon Dog’s Pizza serves Sedona’s best New York pizza, hand tossed crust, secret sauce with roasted garlic, real whole milk mozzarella cheese and fresh ingredients. All meal are individually prepared when ordered, reasonably priced and friendly service from staff members.

Dine In, Take Out, Delivery We’re open for lunch 7 days a week and we offer free delivery for those who can’t get out of work, just don’t feel like leaving the house or your hotel.

Proud to be family owned and operated since 2002. We are also a community school lunch provider.

#Arizona #foodie #HolidayInSedona #pizzainsedona #restaurantinsedona #Sedona #VacationInSedona #VacationSoup

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New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/where-to-buy-fresh-fish-north-shore-kauai-hawaii/

Where To buy Fresh Fish To Cook On The North Shore Of Kauai - Hawaii

You have arrived on Kauai and, if you are like most people, you can not wait to barbecue some fresh island fish. Depending on the time of year, you will have a choice of Pacific Blue Marlin, Ahi (yellow fin tuna), Aku (skip jack tuna), Ono (Wahoo), Opah, Sea Bass or, my favorite, Mahi Mahi (dolphin fish or dorado). Most restaurants will offer two, generally Ahi and Mahi Mahi or Ono. But, if you want to buy some to bring home to cook, here are your best options to buy fresh fish between Lihue and Hanalei.

Where to buy fresh fish on Kauai:

Costco

Start with Costco. Just about every day you will have a selection of several kinds of raw fish at the best price on the island. As with most things at Costco, however, the fish is packaged in fairly large quantities. If you are looking to feed four or more - no problem. For two people, you might consider buying a slab of fish, cutting it in half, and freezing one half for another night later in your trip. It will be just as tasty the second night you cook it. Or, cook up the whole piece and use the leftovers for fish tacos or wraps the next night.

Just recently, our Costco set up a sushi chef preparation area where you may also purchase fresh sushi daily.

Address: 4300 Nuhou St, Lihue, HI 96766

Phone: [phone]

The Fish Express

While still in Lihue, check out The Fish Express. Located right across the street from Walmart, this busy place has a small variety of raw fish, as well as a large variety of poke, shrimp and other items from the sea. In addition to seafood, they offer cuts of meat. Daily prepared specials are listed on a placard.

Address: 3-3343 Kuhio Hwy, Lihue, Hawaii 96766

Phone: [phone]

Hours: Monday through Saturday: 10:00 to 5:00, Sundays, starting March 1, 2020: 10:00 to 2:30 but grill will be closed.

Foodland

Most grocery stores on the island will also carry fresh fish. Foodland, in Princeville, generally has quite a good selection (depending on how well the fish are biting). When I am not going to be in Lihue, this is where I buy my fish. They almost always have ahi and marlin. I prefer white fish so I am always on the lookout for Mahi Mahi, Ono, or occasionally Sea Bass. Here one can buy smaller portions to barbecue, fry, or bake. Try coating each serving of fish with olive oil and a combination of panko flakes and finely chopped up macadamia nuts. Then bake at 450 degrees until brown on top. It does not take long to bake and it is so delicious (ono)!

Foodland also features sushi chefs making a variety of fresh sushi for take-out.

The Kilauea Fish Market

Although most people go to this small fish market for prepared food (their fish tacos are the BEST), they do offer a few pieces of high quality fish for you to take home and cook. Located behind the stone building on the left side of Kilauea Road (road to the lighthouse), this popular spot can be quite crowded around lunch time with long wait times. There are a few tables on the covered patio and a couple of picnic tables on the grass where you may "dine in" or wait for your order.

Address: 4270 Kilauea Rd, Kilauea, HI 96754

Phone: [phone]

Hours: Monday through Saturday 11:00 - 8:00, closed on Sunday.

Website

Best Fish Tacos on Kauai

The Dolphin Fish Market

Just down the hill from Princeville, on the way to Hanalei Town, you will first see the Dophin Restaurant on your right, next to the Hanalei River. Around back is the small Dolphin Fish Market where you will find one of the best selections of raw fish on the north shore.

From their website:

"If ‘Take out’ or ‘cook-your-own’ is where you’re at tonight, then there is no better place to start your meal preparation than the Dolphin Fish Market in Hanalei. Cleaned and cut by master fish cutters you are guaranteed to receive the finest cuts in fish or beef, not to mention specialties like Teriyaki Shrimp, Beef Stix, sushi rolls and fresh sashimi, poke salad, ceviche, seafood chowder, organic salad mixes, squaw bread garlic croutons (a delicious snack themselves) and The Dolphin’s homemade salad dressings."

They are proud of their offerings as is suggested by their prices, but some people swear you will not find a better piece of fish.

Addriess: Hanalei Dolphin Center, 5-5016 Kuhio Highway, Hanalei

Email: [email protected]

Phone: [phone]

Of course, the best way to ensure that you have fresh fish is to catch it yourself. Check out two fishing charters in the "Sports" category of my blog list. If you happen to see someone along the side of the road selling fresh fish, that is a great way to get yummy fish at a more reasonable price. Wherever you buy your fish and however you cook it, a trip to Kauai is not complete until you have tasted our local fish. Enjoy!

For more of my blogs, or to subscribe, go to the right-hand side of this page (not phones). For more information about our luxury vacation rental on the north shore, go to any other page of this website. Mahalo!

#dolphinfishmarket #foodie #Hawaii #HolidayOnKauai #honupoint #kauai #kauaifishmarkets #kilaueafishmarket #Princeville #thefishexpress #VacationOnKauai #VacationSoup #VisitKauai #wheretobuyfreshfishkauai

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What to do in February in Normandy

Are you wondering what to do in February in Normandy? It can be a great time to visit as many of the popular sites that are busier during the summer months are blissfully quiet.

It has to be said that you can't guarantee good weather at this time of year. Rain is a possibility but there are plenty of indoor activities that won't be spoiled by a spot of inclement weather. However, you may be lucky enough to experience brilliant blue skies accompanied by sunny but cold weather.

Go Sales Shopping

The post-Christmas sales are on from 8 January through to 4 February. You'll see signs that say 'Soldes' where sales are taking place. Remember that many shops close on Sundays, Mondays and also at lunchtimes. It's just something you get used to after a while.

Eat Pancakes

France has two pancake days and fortunately they're both in February! The first day is Chandeleur which will be celebrated on 2 February this year. Read about the Chandeleur festival here.

The second pancake day is the equivalent of Shrove Tuesday in the UK and is also known as Mardi Gras. This year it will be on 25th February. Check out a recipe for sweet French pancakes here. If you'd prefer to eat out, this article looks at some recommendations for pancake houses in Coutances.

You might also find boulangeries selling galettes de rois. This flaky pastry cake is filled with frangipane. Traditionally they're sold in January and the first few days of February.

Celebrate the Chinese New Year, attend a carnival or festival

Coutances will celebrate the Chinese New Year from 17th February through to 7th March. The town and shop windows will be decorated with a Chinese theme. And if you'd like to join in the entertainment, then a parade is planned for the final day.

The Granville carnival will be held for the 146th time from 21st - 25th February. For more information about the Granville carnival visit their webpage. You can peruse the programme of activities, timings and photos. Watch the video below for a taster of the fancy dress outfits, the decorated floats, the parade and the confetti fight.

The medieval and steampunk festival Normannia will be held in Rouen on 15th and 16th February. More information about Normannia is here.

Visit one of the key tourist sites

Not all tourist sites are open in February although many of the bigger ones are. Entry to the abbey at Mont Saint Michel will be free on Sunday 2nd February. All you need to do is to pay for your parking. The Mont Saint Michel page is here with heaps of information about what to do and see.

Many of the D-Day landing sites are open. This page is a comprehensive guide to the D-Day landing beaches. For example, Gold Beach sites open in February include the Arromanches Landing Museum, the D-Day Garden and the Longues-sur-Mer battery. At Omaha both the Normandy American Cemetery and Visitor Centre as well as La Pointe du Hoc are open and both are free to visit. Near Sword Beach, the Atlantic Wall museum in Ouistreham opens on 9th February. The Pegasus Bridge Memorial museum is open throughout February. The Juno Beach Centre at Courseulles-sur-Mer focusses on the Canadian sector and you can visit during February. There are several museums open around the Utah Beach area. They include the D-Day Experience and Dead Man’s Corner Museums at Saint-Côme-du-Mont, the Airborne Museum at Sainte-Mère-Eglise and the Utah Beach museum. The cemeteries and memorials are also open to visitors.

In Bayeux, the cathedral, tapestry, Commonwealth cemetery and the Battle of Normandy museum are open in February. You can also shop, eat out at one of the many restaurants or bistros and stroll around medieval Bayeux. There's more information on the Bayeux page.

The illuminated cathedral at dusk during the summer months

Other things to do in February include visiting a museum such as the maritime museum in Cherbourg or the centre for Peace and History in Caen, a walk on one of the many beaches, browsing a market and strolling around one of the nearby towns such as Granville, Coutances or Villedieu-les-Poêles.

This isn't an exhaustive list of what to do in February in Normandy. However, hopefully it gives you a flavour of what's on offer.

#bayeux #DDayLandingBeaches #February #France #gavray #HolidayInGavray #montsaintmichel #normandy #VacationInGavray #VacationSoup #whatson #whattodo

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New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/winter-beach-vacation-in-destin-florida/

Winter Beach Vacation in Destin

Destin in the winter is just as fun as Destin in the summer! The weather is mild, with average highs of 64 ℉, it’s a nice break from the winter wonderland our family likes to call Kansas. Nonetheless, here are some fun winter activities!

See Yourself as a Caricature

If you’re in Harborwalk for one of Kelly’s classes, then get a caricature while you’re at it! You’ve seen caricatures of celebrities of artists on the street doing them in cities, and Destin is one of them! Deano Milton is the artist, and he’s been creating caricatures for customers for 10 years and counting.

Snow Day!

We already mentioned this one in our annual events, but it’s a great way to celebrate Christmas in Florida! Every Saturday before Christmas, the Baytowne Wharf grants Destin with a snow day! Feel free to build a snow fort or have a snowball fight! If it’s going to be a sunny day, make sure your family gets there before the snow melts. The Snow Day is located at the Village of Baytowne Wharf.

Paint With an Artist

Right next to Harry T’s at Harborwalk Village, you can find Kelly Pierce’s art store. If you want to test your artistic skills, you can try an art class with him. A few days a week you can find one of his art classes at Harborwalk. You’ll paint a beach-themed painting that you’re welcome to take home. No need to bring money for supplies; the classes have paint, supplies, and instructions are provided. If it’s too cold to be on the beach, then you might as well paint it!

Banana Bart’s

Banana Bart’s has been open for 35 years, and it’s still owned by the same people! If you’re looking for some beachy decor, then this is the place to be. With an ever-changing inventory of products, you’ll never know what you’re going to find. Also, this is a great place to shop for some last-minute Christmas gifts if you’re in town during the holidays. From the back of the shop, you can see the harbor.

Fudpucker’s

Fudpucker’s is a popular Destin restaurant that both kids and adults love. The name “Fudpucker” comes from a nickname Destin fisherman call triggerfish. They have a gift shop, playground, and over 50 alligators (all alive) in their gator beach! You can see a rare albino alligator named Pearl there as well. If you’re eating there or just visiting, admission is free. You can feed the alligators and also take a picture of them, but there is a fee. Before the restaurant opens, there is a tour option.

Float Tanks

This is a great way to relax and take some time for yourself. A float tank (more specifically a sensory deprivation tank) is a small tub with a lid- sort of like a clam- with water heated to the same temperature as the skin. It is pitch black, and without your senses and a sense of gravity, it’s a different kind of relaxation experience. You can play your own music, too, if you don't like the silence.

Banana Bart’s

Banana Bart’s has been open for 35 years, and it’s still owned by the same people! If you’re looking for some beachy decor, then this is the place to be. With an ever-changing inventory of products, you’ll never know what you’re going to find. Also, this is a great place to shop for some last-minute Christmas gifts if you’re in town during the holidays. From the back of the shop, you can see the harbor.

Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl

If you can’t be in the water, why not go underwater? Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill is a bowling alley that is underwater themed. If you get hungry while you bowl, go ahead and order some food and drinks; after all, it is a restaurant and bar. They do not have reservations, so while you wait you can either visit Destin Commons or try their arcade with games for all ages- even some that may spark nostalgia.

Play Destinopoly in Southern Exposure

You can buy your own game of Destinopoly at the Destin Walmart (located 2.3 miles or about 7 minutes from the condo). It features all of the attractions that help make up Destin. It’s modeled just like monopoly and you play it just like it, too! The twist: attractions that makeup Destin are what you buy instead of the classic landmarks of monopoly. Destinopoly is hours of fun with you and your family (and it’s a great keepsake the entire family will enjoy). If it’s not windy, try playing it on the wrap-around balcony of the condo; that way, you get a great view while you play.

Outdoor Ice Skating Rink

If you’re wanting to combine a popular winter activity with Destin’s nice weather, try their outdoor ice skating rink! In the events plaza at the Village of Baytowne Wharf, you can find the ice skating rink. They open from October to January with different operating times depending on weather or school. If you want information, the wharf’s website has an events calendar you can check, or you can check their Facebook for things like maintenance. If you want to host a private event there you can do that there as well. They have accommodations for small children who are just beginning their ice skating adventure. There is a fee for admission and renting skates.

Gulfarium

Open for 65 years, the Gulfarium is a great place to look at local marine life and learn a thing or two. They have dolphin shows and sea lions shows every day, and it’s a crowd-pleaser among many of their visitors. There’s more than just marine life, you can also see other local animals in Destin: turtles, gators, and birds. If you have little children, their enclosures are a perfect height to see the animals. They have a gift shop in case you want a fun souvenir! You do have the chance to get up close with the animals at the Gulfarium, but you will have to pay extra.

Wild Willy’s

Wild Willy’s is located just west on Okaloosa Island, and it features just about 16,000 square feet of indoor arcade, two themed mini-golf courses, a 4D movie theater, laser maze, bungee trampolines, and more. Wild Willy’s also has a Salvati’s Pizza Factory and Yogo Mogos to eat there if all that fun makes you hungry. They run on points like The Track, but they also have packages. Their hours depend on the day and their website has those on their home page.

Destin Commons

Destin Commons has a wide variety of different types of stores that everyone in your family will enjoy! There is also a fountain and play area for children to play in. They decorate for Halloween and Christmas if you’re visiting during those two times of year. Destin Commons is the best place to get a Christmas gift in Destin because they have something for everyone.

Book with Easy Breezy Stays for your next vacation!

Click here to book now!

#beach #CrystalBeach #Destin #EmeraldCoastFLVacationRental #Florida #HolidayInDestin #SnotbirdDestination #travel #VacationInDestin #vacationrental #VacationSoup #WInterVactionDestin

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Normandy Cider Trail

Following a Normandy cider trail is really easy with an app you can download on your phone. The app has been developed by the Clos du Cotentin Tourist Office. It covers a 60km route in the Cotentin which is an area in the north of La Manche region. The towns of Valognes and Saint-Sauveur-le-Vicomte are included. There are 16 stops on the Normandy cider trail and you start in the cider museum in Valognes.

To start learning about the history of cider and how's it's made you firstly need to download the free app. It's called Kit M Manche. You'll get access to a map and also information about each of the stops. They are called étapes in French. The app gives opening times and also details of any admission costs. Many of the stops are producers and these tend to be free to visit.

You can download the itinerary in advance so you can access it later without an internet connection. Then simply choose the places that you'd like to visit. At the entrance to each site you can access more content via your phone.

For more information about where to buy cider locally, read about a local producer here.

#cider #foodie #France #gavray #HolidayInGavray #normandy #VacationInGavray #VacationSoup #whattodo

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New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/go-reggae-dancing-in-new-smyrna-beach-florida/

Go Reggae Dancing in New Smyrna Beach Florida

Per Kenny Chesney, "Everything is better when the sun goes down"

Go Reggae Dancing in New Smyrna Beach! Join the fun at Reggae Night- dancing to the island tunes with the NSB Dance Club. Chill out to the reggae tunes, mon.

Reggae Night: Nov 20 6-9 PM at Hidden Lakes Golf Club

Hidden Lakes Golf Club is located at 35 Fairgreen Avenue New Smyrna Beach, FL 3216 . From our condo, 5 miles - take the north causeway over to the mainland, turn right onto A1A (aka Dixie Freeway), turn left at stoplight onto Turnbull Bay Rd. Hidden Lakes is on the right.

https://youtu.be/mbStW_grp04

NSB Dance Club

Social Dancing at it's Best. They are a social club that loves to dance! They dance at many local venues, and do many different styles of dance. Their group is now 180 members strong, and they offer “ Two Left Feet, Dance Lessons”, for anyone that may like to review or learn some new dance steps, at their Social Mingles. NSB Dance Club dances, dines and mingles at local venues and events, within the New Smyrna Beach area.

NSB Dance Club offers Free dance lessons to the Community at the NSB local library, as well as offer a variety of dance opportunities each month for your dancing pleasure.

Looking for something fun to do after the sand and suntan lotion are washed off and the sun goes down? Go Reggae Dancing in New Smyrna Beach with NSB Dance Club!

#beach #beaches #Florida #Holiday In NewSmyrnaBeach #NewSmyrnaBeach #Vacation In New Smyrna Beach #VacationSoup #whattodo

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A lover of bees – all things bee and honey around Cozumel

Lovers of the sweet, heavenly honey distinctive to Mexico call the region a bee sanctuary! Mexico is a region oozing with history, heritage, and biodiversity. The Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico is responsible for the generation of over 1/3rd of the honey Mexico produces. The infamous 3,000-year-old indigenous Melipona bee that was cultivated by the Mayans produces some of the best honey in the world today; effectively making Mexico a honey and bee heaven.

Their history is just as interesting! This stingless honeybee lives in small colonies in huge hollowed-out trees. The difference between the European honey bee introduced to the region in 2011 is the quality and the taste of honey. The Melipona honey has a very distinctive taste; it is floral, with both sweet and sour flavors. The natives of the Yucatan have been preserving the ‘Meliponiculture’ (Mayan Beekeeping tradition) for eons! This delicious condiment was used to sweeten food in earlier times. This unique honey is sold and distributed around the world. It is valued for its healing properties and usage in natural remedies. From face masks to being a great antioxidant, Anti-cancer and its wound-healing activity amongst various other properties make honey one of the finest natural raw ingredients available to mankind. People use honey soaps, shampoos, skin care creams, eye drops to treat cataracts and even as talc! Its wide demand and value leave it at a price tag of around $199.9/ 32 fl.oz. of 100% pure Melipona honey.

Do you fancy taking a stroll amidst these endangered yet fascinating creatures and learning more about them firsthand? Why not visit the Mayan Stingless Bee sanctuaries in Cozumel? Unleash the explorer in you as you step into this interactive sanctuary with Aviomar Adventurers for $16.00/person for a tour of ½ hours. Learn about the Mayan wonder and maybe taste a drop or two of this liquid gold yourself! Salivating already? So, are we!

#Cozumel #HolidayOnCozumel #Mexico #PlayaDelCarmen #travel #TravelTip #VacationOnCozumel #VacationSoup #whattodo #whattosee

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New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/ponce-lighthouse-adventure/

Ponce Lighthouse Adventure near New Smyrna Beach Florida

Ready for a Ponce Lighthouse adventure near New Smyrna Beach? Step back in time and climb 175 feet of fun in the Florida sun at the Ponce Inlet Light Station and Museum! Constructed in 1887, the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse has guided mariners along the Florida coast for more than 130 years.

17 Stories High

Standing 175 feet tall ,the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is the tallest in Florida and one of the tallest in the US ( (the Cape Hatteras Light in North Carolina is taller at 207 feet). That is the equivalent of 17 stories high. Workers stacked 1.25 million bricks and an 8 feet thick wall at its base.

213 Steps

Not for the fainthearted or bad knees, climbing the lighthouse is no joke! The stairwell spirals up 213 steps (which are steep) with 9 landings to rest and read interesting historic information and see lighthouse artifacts. But the view at the top are worth it - breathtaking.

Enjoy the video of Ponce Lighthouse with its beautiful coastal backdrop below. This view is facing south with the Atlantic Ocean on the left, the Ponce Inlet and New Smyrna Beach directly behind it, and the intracoastal waterway (Indian River) on the right.

http://poncelighthouse.zsite.info/z/-vf.0.0.0.18.DB169BF567E34DBF1853365EABC8BEBDEA1229F9E0C2D791D3E7E089CF4265DF

Lighthouse's Many Uses

Divers swim on the shipwreck Spiegel Grove Tuesday, July 12, 2005, of Key Largo, Fla., in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Since it was fully sunk on June 10, 2002, the decommissioned Navy Landing Ship Dock has rested on its starboard side. But Monday, July 11, 2005, divers discovered the ship had rolled upright, apparently courtesy of waves spawned by Hurricane Dennis off the southeast coast of Cuba, according to a National Weather Service official. The ship is the largest in the world ever scuttled to become an artificial reef. NO SALES (Photo by Fraser Nivens/Florida Keys News Bureau/HO)

Prevent shipwrecks. Florida is home to many famous shipwrecks. Hundreds of Spanish sailors and would-be colonists and millions of dollars of gold, silver, and jewels being transported from South America back to Spain have sunk in the waters off of Florida.

Navigate. The Coast Guard assumed operation of the Lighthouse around 1939 and installed a radio navigational beacon. Ships use the Ponce signal plus signals from Jacksonville and Cape Canaveral to fix their positions relative to the Florida coast and to prepare to navigate around the dangerous Hetzel Shoal near Canaveral.

Wartime Defense. During World War II, the lighthouse tower was used as a spotting station for enemy aircraft and off-shore vessels. The Light Station was a Coast Guard training center and barracks during the War. There is a permanent exhibit of artifacts and information concerning the Coast Guard and the Light Station in World War II. The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, changed life for everyone in America, including Ponce Inlet. On December 12, the light station was closed to the public, and unauthorized persons were not allowed on the beach. (Eventually, civilian guards would be stationed to check every car that crossed the bridges onto the peninsula.) The two keepers at the lighthouse were ordered to stand eight hour watches to spot possible enemy activity, and on December 29th, the Coast Guard decided to require round-the-clock watches.

Stephen Crane and the Ponce Lighthouse

In 1897, American author Stephen Crane, working as an undercover correspondent for the New York Post, joins a gun-running expedition to Cuba aboard the steam tug Commodore.  Their goal is to reach Cuba with supplies to aid the rebellion against Spanish rule of the island. The morning after her departure from Jacksonville, the ship sinks about 12 miles off Daytona.  Survivors credit the beacon from the lighthouse at Mosquito Inlet for giving them the direction in which to row their small boats.  Eight men die in the sinking, but Stephen Crane survives and writes his famous short story, "The Open Boat."

17 Mile Lighthouse Beacon via Fresnel Lens

The Ayres Davies Lens Exhibit Building at the Ponce Lighthouse Museum contains the restored original 1st order rotating Fresnel lens along with exhibits on the history of lighthouse illumination, and a truly stunning collection of lenses and lanterns.

The original lamp burned kerosene; in 1909 it was replaced with an incandescent oil vapor lamp. In 1933, the lighthouse beacon was electrified in 1933 with a 500-watt lamp and the original, 1st order rotating  Fresnel lens was replaced with a 3rd order rotating Fresnel lens. The fresnel lens blinks its beams 17 nautical miles away!

History of Lighthouse Lenses

One of the seven wonders of the Ancient World, the great lighthouse of Alexandria, built around 280 B.C., towered some 450 feet above Egypt's greatest harbor. At that height, it was the second tallest structure in the world, after another of the seven — the Great Pyramid of Giza. The light within, also state of the art, was an open flame.

From that time until the 18th century, the lights that warned ships that they were approaching land improved hardly at all. Some burned coal. Others stuck with wood. Oil lamps backed by mirrors eventually offered a bit more candlepower. Still, every coastline in the world remained littered with the ribs of broken ships whose captains didn't see the lighthouse until it was too late. Then, in 1822, a frail scientist with a passion for optics made a revolutionary breakthrough. His name was Augustin Jean Fresnel. Read more: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/science-makes-a-better-lighthouse-lens-

As a child, Fresnel was a slow learner who showed little interest in language studies or in tests of memory. By the age of 8, he could barely read. Yet his boyhood friends, for whom he studiously determined how to increase the power of popguns and bows, called him "the genius." When applied to optics, his genius proved to be real and considerable. Where others had improved existing lighthouse technology, Fresnel leapt forward by studying the behavior of light itself. His studies both advanced the understanding of the nature of light and produced the most important breakthrough in lighthouse lights in 2,000 years.

Fresnel worked out a number of formulas to calculate the way light changes direction, or refracts, while passing through glass prisms. Working with some of the most advanced glassmakers of the day, he produced a combination of prism shapes that together made up a lens. The Fresnel lighthouse lens used a large lamp at the focal plane as its light source. It also contained a central panel of magnifying glasses surrounded above and below by concentric rings of prisms and mirrors, all angled to gather light, intensify it and project it outward.

The various reflector systems installed in lighthouses during the 40 years preceding the introduction of the 1822 Fresnel lens certainly had been improvements over the open fires or candles in lantern rooms. Still, they could trap only a small percentage of the light. All prior systems paled by comparison with the Fresnel lens. Read more: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/science-makes-a-better-lighthouse-lens-170677431/

The Museum has something for everyone

The Ponce DeLeon Inlet Lighthouse Museum campus includes the lighthouse, a Museum and Gift shop, a Cuban raft exhibit, a Video Theatre, a giant old galleon anchor, the First Assistant and Second Assistant Keeper's Dwellings, the Lens Exhibit Building, and the 1000 lb US Lighthouse Service Fog Bell.

Children and adults will all enjoy the museum and lighthouse. Interesting unique history, optical science, beautiful coastal setting, The Gift Shop is full of unique books, art, and of course gifts - you could easily enjoy browsing there for an hour. Visitors should plan for at least a half a day. The local area also has a few waterfront marinas and seafood hangouts, fishing charters, water sports as well as a nature preserve, Lighthouse Point Park with beach, and a Marine Science Center.

Your Ponce Lighthouse adventure near New Smyrna Beach is about 30 minutes from our condo. We travel north up Route 1 to the first intracoastal bridge in Daytona Beach which is Dunlawton Blvd. Then turn right on South Atlantic Avenue to the end of end of the island!

4931 S. Peninsula Drive Ponce Inlet, FL 32127 [phone]

Hours of Operation

Sept. 3, 2019 – May 24, 2020 Open Daily, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Last Admission at 5:00 PM)

#beach #Florida #Holiday In NewSmyrnaBeach #NewSmyrnaBeach #Vacation In New Smyrna Beach #VacationSoup #whattosee

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New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/apalachicola-bay-estuary-class-october-4-1230-pm-400-pm-recurring-event-free/

Apalachicola Bay Estuary Class October 4 @ 12:30 pm - 4:00 pm |Recurring Event Free

Do you know what an estuary is and why it is so vital our economy and way of life? Join the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve this Fall as we explore the estuary we depend on. Participants will learn about the habitats and creatures that make up our estuary and how the river and bay are intricately connected. We will see these habitats up close aboard the Reserve’s research vessel the Henry Lee.

The class cost is free to attend but you must get tickets before class on our eventbrite page, as spaces fill up fast. Please be sure to bring weather appropriate clothing, and eat lunch in advance.

#Apalachicola #Florida #HolidayOnStGeorgeIslandFlorida #StGeorgeIslandFlorida #VacationOnStGeorgeIslandFlorida #VacationSoup #whattodo

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New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/hiking-the-reef-bay-trail-one-of-st-johns-best-hikes/

Hiking the Reef Bay Trail - One of St. John's Best Hikes

The Reef Bay Trail in the U.S. Virgin Islands National Park holds the secrets of St.John’s tropical forests, sugar mill ruins, and ancient petroglyphs. The two-mile trail explores the depths of the island, featuring a steep rocky terrain, 40 foot waterfall, and a freshwater pond near the trail’s end. When adventuring from your St. John Escape vacation home, pack a light lunch, plenty of water, and a swimsuit to take a dip.

Watch this video to see what this classic St. John hike is like:

You will find off road parking at the Reef Bay trailhead along Centerline Road about halfway between Cruz Bay and Coral Bay.  The rocky trail descends steeply from 900 feet above sea level to the rocky beach at Reef Bay.  Bring plenty of water, bug spray, and wear sturdy walking shoes.

The National Park Service is currently not offering their guided hike option that included a return to Cruz Bay by boat.  This means you will have to hike both down and back up the trail.  The long steep, uphill walk back is far more difficult than the descent. This should not be a problem for those in good physical condition who may even enjoy the challenge. Make sure to pace yourself and bring plenty of water. It may also be a good idea to plan a picnic either at the petroglyphs or at the beach near the sugar factory. A cooling swim at Genti or Little Reef Bay is another pleasant way to prepare for the walk up the valley.

A hike through the tropical forests of St. John wouldn’t be complete without some beautiful water features. Along the Reef Bay trail you will sometimes  find a stunning 40-foot waterfall, with a freshwater pool at the base. Whether or not you see the waterfall depends on how recently it has rained.  Fresh water at the bottom provides a home for a shrimp, frogs, fish, hummingbirds, and dragonflies. This is a great spot to take a rest or have your lunch.

There are some historic elements along the Reef Bay Trail that will catch your attention. The sugar mill ruins along the Reef Bay Trail remind you of a different era on the island and carry a dark shadow of history. Another historic element is visible on the rocks surrounding the freshwater pool near the trail’s end. Here, you will see some mysterious carvings. Archaeologists believe that these carvings are in fact sacred symbols carved by Taino Indians over 1,000 years ago. These petroglyphs are a great historic treat at the end of a great hike.

Awaiting you at the bottom of the trail is lovely Reef Bay beach.

#beaches #CruzBay #hikers #Hiking #HolidayOnStJohn #StJohn #USVI #VacationOnStJohn #VacationSoup #whattodo

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New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/booking-vacation-rentals/

Booking Vacation Rentals

Booking Vacation Rentals is Changing

Vacation accommodations in homeowners' condos, houses, lodges, and BnB's are really popular as opposed to staying in motel rooms. Travelers have many choices in how they book these vacation rentals from owners. And those choices are changing - could be for the better, or not.

Commercial Booking Sites Getting More Expensive

Over the last 8 years that I have been renting my timeshare weeks and my beachfront condo to guests, I have seen big changes. The big listing websites like VRBO , Homeaway, and AirBnB have gotten more and more expensive. Not only have they increased expenses to the owners, but they have added "Service Fees" and "Booking Fees" for travelers starting at 12%

A typical vacationer staying at my condo for 4 nights, pays about $95 in service fees to VRBO. I am familiar with a vacation villa owner in Kissimmee, Florida (home to all things Disney), who has rented her villa for over 125 weeks in the last 3-4 years. If she had listed her villa with AirBnb, it would have cost her $3700, and cost her guests over $15,000 collectively. Of course, owner's costs are figured into the rental rates, so guests end up paying higher rental prices as well.

Saving Money with Renting from Owners Directly

Many travelers who book their stays on the big listing websites are not aware that they are not booking directly with owners or that they can by-pass those third-party sites and book directly.

Increasingly, vacation home owners are offering their vacation homes up for rent directly. They likely started with one or more of the listing sites, then developed their own professional websites.

Flexibility Matters

The listing websites control all the processes and dictate rules to owners. On VRBO, I can't even email someone who wants more information about my vacation condo, unless they actually book, then I have access to their email.

Owners and travelers alike benefit from the flexibility of communicating directly with each other.

It is really easy to adjust the travel dates with the owner, but a whole lot of headache to adjust it on the listing sites. Plus the traveler and owner get penalized for cancelling.

With direct booking, arrangements can be make for early check-in or late check-out and special requests.

Travelers have the opportunity to ask questions about the property, the amenities, location, parking, etc before making any obligations when communicating directly with the owner.

Repeat guests enjoy discounts and special offers

Owners are a Free Destination Guide

Where are the best places to eat? Are there any walking/bike paths or golf courses nearby? What events are going on in the area? Can I walk to the grocery store? What is there to see and do?

Owners know their vacation destinations. They and their guests have been enjoying the area for years and have lots of great recommendations. I really enjoy sharing and hearing about all the fun to be had in New Smyrna Beach.

How Can I Find an Owner-Direct Property?

Looking for vacation accommodations in a particular area and want to check out the local vacation rentals by owners there? Here are some ideas:

Check out websites such as Vacation Soup. You can browse by location or desired activities, then contact the owners directly. This is also a wonderful site to explore all kinds of vacation ideas.

Use a commercial listing site to locate a property you like. Then copy and paste the Property Name into a Google or Facebook search.

Google search the area for vacation rentals. The owner direct homes will be on pages 2 and 3 and 4 and on, because the power of Google belongs to the big listing sites

Search Facebook for the name of the property you like

Search #bookdirect in Facebook

Booking Vacation Rentals directly with Owners - Enjoy!

#beach #Florida #Holiday In NewSmyrnaBeach #New Smyrna Beach Florida Condo for Rent by Owner #NewSmyrnaBeach #Vacation In New Smyrna Beach #VacationSoup

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New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/the-one-thing-you-can-not-miss-in-vintage-villa-magnolia/

The One Thing You Can Not Miss in Vintage Villa Magnolia

The one thing you can not miss in Vintage Villa Magnolia is the large, leafy garden. It's spacious and green. In summer it provides plenty of shade as well as space for sunbathing. There are gazebos with comfortable deck chairs and tables, old trees such as Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica), Mediterranean cypress (Cupressus semprevirens), Mimosa (Mimosa scabrela), shrubs such as a Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) ... There are medicinal 

Lazy summer afternoon

There are patios equipped with furniture where you can eat your meals, have a drink on the terrace or a breakfast on the patio by the entrance. You can listen to bird song and cicadas, enjoy the fragranced breeze that rustles the old cypresses and fills the air with the aroma of rosemary, bay leaves, lavender, roses and makes the ancient magnolia fill the air with its gentle perfume...

Depending on the time of year you visit, you can taste organic loquat fruits from the tree that is over 100 years old and therefore did not get a chance to get GMO-ed. There are plenty of passionfruits, too. You can even set up the barbecue and enjoy your meal with domestic wines from the local areas while watching the Milky Way above.

Morning coffee in the Garden

When you decide you want to explore the town outside the garden, you will find that nothing is within walking distance and you can easily walk to the historic town centre or to the nearest beach bar. There is something for everyone in Pula, plenty of cultural happenings, festivals, concerts, and open-air events.

The ancient Roman amphitheatre has hosted bands like Foo Fighters, Status Quo, Placido Domingo, David Bowie, Leonard Cohen, as well as festivals like Dimensions, Outlook and International Film Festival which happens annually.  And when you get tired from dancing and partying, you will return to the tranquil garden and breathe in its calming aromas before you hit the bed.

Ode of Joy in ancient Amphitheatre

#Croatia #HolidayInVintageVillaMagnolia #Pula #secret #VacationInVintageVillaMagnolia #VacationSoup #VintageVillaMagnolia

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New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/youve-gotta-check-out-this-hiking-app-for-the-kanab-utah-area/

You've gotta' check out this Hiking App for the Kanab, Utah Area!

Get Off The Beaten Path!

The National Parks are Stunning, no doubt about it. But what do you do when you want to get off the beaten path? The Kanab area is full of amazing trails in beautiful Red Rock Country, without all the crowds.

Kane County tourism now offers the amazing “Kanab Trails App”. This app can help you plan and navigate your outdoor adventures in Kanab and the surrounding area. It has an incredible array of red rock trails, slot canyons, and high mountain forest. You are sure to find just the right trail you have been looking for. Whether you are on foot, horse or Atv's.

The Kanab area of Utah has some of the most unique terrain in the world and the Kanab Trails App makes it easy for you to enjoy it.  

By using this mobile guide, even those who are unfamiliar with the area can feel confident to venture out in this beautiful environment! Whether you’re out on the road looking for adventure, or planning a trip from home, the Kanab Trails App invites you to discover and explore these hidden gems! Enjoy the picturesque scenery, breath-taking trails, spectacular slot canyons, and places you never knew existed.

You can view the app and download their information PDF (click on the Kanab Trails Overview info)  here: http://www.mapntour.com/viewer/?c=534

Here is info directly from the app-

The roads and trails displayed in the App are available for public access and can serve as guides for your Kane County Trail adventure.

You may view the roads in map or satellite view. Pinch and zoom the map to see all the roads in the county. If you enter an area with no cell coverage, essential elements of the road paths and points of interest are still available offline.

Offline capabilities:

The road and trail paths visible -  if app downloaded to your device.

My location GPS tracking -  if enable in device and app settings

The text descriptions and photos

Topographic map overlays if they are available for the area you are visiting.

App features: Benefits for you:

Selecting road from the navigation list or search result we'll fly you to the map where that road is centered in the screen and highlighted so the path is wider.

The roads name will be displayed on the title bar at the bottom of the screen.

You may slide the title bar to get mileage information about that road if there is any available.

If you see signage on the road- or trail you can search for that number in the app. Or select from the list in the navigation list.

Touch a path and its name will display on the information drawer title bar at the bottom of the screen.

You should be able to view your location with or without cell service:

Topographic Map layer:

An example of the topographic maps is shown here. You may pinch and zoom into the area of your location. Touch the arrow pointing in the left-hand side of the map to show your location.

Notifications:

You may get alerts when you come within an established distance of a trailhead, point of interest or destination depending on you're app settings.

    The in-app information has a whole lot more! Great reminders like:

Using other sources of info

Be mindful of weather, especially when entering Slot Canyons

Map based apps use a lot of battery power. Have extra charging options with you

Check road conditions prior to travel

Bring extra water! It is hotter and drier than you think

Very limited Cell phone service in this area

Talk about adventure!  The Kanab Trails app makes trails easy to find, simple to follow, and enjoyable to experience.  Be spontaneous! The geo-alerts let you know what outdoor adventures are nearby. Discovering this magically unspoiled area requires offline access – and we have you covered.

Roads, trails, GPS tracking, and trail information is all available without wi-fi or cellular service.

Now for what you really want - The Kanab Trails App download - Head over to https://www.visitsouthernutah.com/           click on the Kanab Trails icon, there ya go!

All in all, you are going to have a great time exploring and you are going to see things like you have never seen before!

If you are digging this idea and this app, and want even more info,  here is a copy of the in-app Tips

Mobile App Tips

Mobile App Tips for Adventure Hiking Trails

Adventure Hiking Trails may parallel roads in some cases. The Adventure Trail Paths are shown in ORANGE.

“This map and directions are intended for general reference use only.  Always check local road and weather conditions. Stay on designated roads.  Dirt roads are impassable when wet. Please respect Private Property. Be prepared for a wilderness experience: Always bring extra water, food, sunscreen, and supplies. Do not remove artifacts or deface the ‘rock art’.  Leave no trace of your visit so others may enjoy.”

Cell phone service is non-existent in most areas.  Essential information is available offline for the Adventure Trails and Outdoor Recreational Opportunities on this app. In areas without cellular service map tiles may not be displayed.  You can go to "Settings" and toggle on topographic maps to assist with navigation.

Safety:  Enjoy your trip –by being prepared.  Due to cell phone battery limitations, we always advise visitors to bring charging cords or battery packs and have access to hard copy maps as a backup.   

About Adventure Trail Featured Paths & Content:   The Kane County Commission invites you to use the Kanab Trails App.  You can plan your excursions and follow the route on your mobile device while on location.

These trails are meant to serve as guides for your Kane County Adventure with both map and satellite view options.  Each Adventure Trail is its own category that lists the trail path(s) its trailhead and destination. Some Trails show highway access points.   If you have downloaded the app to your device and then enter an area with no cell coverage, the essential paths, and points of interest are still available offline.

Adventure Hiking Trail Experience:  Many of the Adventure Trails follow roads for a portion of the way.  You will see which type of road is running alongside, and when the road ends the hiking routes begins.

#hikers #Hiking #hikingapp #hikingmaps #hikingsouthernutah #hikingutah #HolidayInKanabUtah #KanabUtah #SouthWestUtah #UtahUSA #VacationInKanabUtah #VacationSoup

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New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/celebrate-national-trails-day-in-virginias-blue-ridge-mountains-june-1-2019/

Celebrate National Trails Day in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains – June 1, 2019

One of these stunning parks is the perfect destination for National Trails Day this Saturday, June 1, 2019!

Grayson Highlands State Park

Located near Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain, Virginia’s two highest mountains, Grayson Highlands offers scenic views of alpine-like peaks more than 5,000 feet high. Facilities include a visitor center, campgrounds, and hiking trails leading to waterfalls and overlooks. 

  The inhabitants of Grayson Highlands--a herd of wild ponies that roam freely.

The following guided hikes are planned throughout this year's National Trails Day. 

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Hike on the Appalachian Trail to Mt. Rogers, meet at Massie Gap

10 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Trail maintenance on Rhododendron Trail, meet at Massie Gap

4 p.m. to 5 p.m. – Trick Your Stick at the Campground Amphitheater

8 p.m. to 9 p.m. – Salamander Meander at the Visitor Center

https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/grayson-highlands New River Trail State Park

New River Trail is a 57-mile linear park that follows an abandoned railroad right-of-way. The park parallels the historic New River for 39 miles and the scenery is magnificient. The trail is relatively flat and appropriate for all skill levels. A trail entrance is located in Fries, VA at 323 Firehouse Drive.  From Route 94, go south to town.  Parking is available near the town park.

Untamed beauty along the trail.

https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/new-river-trail

Virginia Creeper Trail

The Virginia Creeper trail is a 34.3-mile rail-to-recreation trail, traversing through two counties from Abingdon, Virginia, through Damascus, and ending just past Whitetop Station in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, at the Virginia-North Carolina border.  Cycling the Creeper Trail is perfect for riders of varying ages and fitness levels due to it's slight decline.  

To get to the Whitetop Station trailhead, follow US 58 east from Abingdon into Grayson County. Turn right on State Route 726 and head south toward the North Carolina border. You will see the parking area off of 726.

To get to the Abingdon trailhead, head south on Main Street/US 11 in Abingdon and turn left onto Pecan Street. There is a large locomotive engine on display by the trailhead, which you can see to the left of the parking lot.

https://www.vacreepertrail.org/

#cycling #Fries #GraysonCountyVA #hikers #Hiking #HolidayInVirginiaSBlueRidgeMountains #NationalTrailsDay #VacationInVirginiaSBlueRidgeMountains #VacationSoup #Virginia #VirginiaSBlueRidgeMountains #VisitGraysonVA #whattodo

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New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/parking-on-and-in-the-dartmoor-national-park/

Parking on and in the Dartmoor National Park

Over the 368 square miles of our Dartmoor National Park run a few 'B' roads and even more 'Deep Devon lanes' - the majority of roads throughout the park are unfenced and you might be tempted to just pull over and park your car on the grass beside the road - some places this may be fine, if you take into consideration that the road is narrow and large tractors and lorries may have to pass withoutdropping into a ditch.  Another problem with just pulling over and stopping, getting out and walking, is finding your car after you have walked a mile or two, many a visitor has found themselves miles away from their car, not knowing which direction to follow the road to find it.

Traffic jams on Dartmoor roads consist mainly of flocks of sheep or herds of cattle, and don't necessarily expect the farmer to be following! just bide your time and remember that cattle prefer to walk on the grass verge and will squeeze past the car even if you think they will not fit - and not mind your wing mirrors, so sit it out patiently and enjoy the nature passing by.

A lot of the main car parks in the villages in the park now have parking charges, not a lot, perhaps a couple of pounds, which helps pay for the up keep of the parking area, filling pot holes etc.  I would always suggest pulling off the main through roads in the park - explore the little lanes, do a bit of research with the help of your Ordnance survey map and Google maps/satellite - by doing this you will find spaces to park with amazing views, usually only used by local dog walkers - and you will not have to pay - but do mind any rocks or pot holes, ditches and banks.. remember your car will not have as much ground clearance as the Landrover you have just parked beside!

Most bed and breakfast establishments and hotels in within the Dartmoor National Park will have good parking space/carparking - maybe shared with a few small ponies or sheep which may have wandered in from the road - which brings me to the fact that Dartmoor roads are unfenced and have cattle, sheep and ponies wandering over them, they have right of way over traffic and see no danger in oncoming cars.  The speed limit is mostly 40 mph for this reason.

Please make sure that your valuables are well hidden or take them with you when leaving your car as although the majority of people passing through are honest, there are the few rogues who will be looking out for easy pickings, no one wants to come back to their car with a broken window, having lost their camera or hand bag.

Back to the iconic Dartmoor ponies, when you park your car, they will be waiting, waiting to see if you have any titbits for them, we ask that the ponies are not fed as it encourages them onto the road with sometimes tragic consequences.

All in all, if you find a nice quiet place to park your car with a view to die for, where could be a better place to sit and eat your lunch time sandwiches?

#cycling #Dartmoor #hikers #HolidayOnDartmoor #parking #Plymouth #Princetown #VacationOnDartmoor #VacationSoup #whattosee