Alaskan Cruise - Juneau Whale Watching

November 2nd, 2009
shagmiser asked:

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Our first stop was Juneau, Alaska, where we boarded a bus then a boat to go whale watching in the waters and sound around Juneau. Mom forgot her .22.

CARLO

Things to do in Maui?

November 1st, 2009
me asked:


What are some fun things to do in Maui for families with teenagers in December?

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The teens are definitely not into museums and such so Pearl Harbor is a no. So far, I have the ATV/Zipline Combo that the teens are thrilled about. I’ve also got whale watching, and maybe driving to Hana for the waterfalls and such.

We are looking for not-so-pricey things…but feel free to throw ANY ideas my way. Thanks!
Woops! I got my islands mixed up. Thats right…Pearl Harbor isn’t in Maui!

JAN

Whale Watching In The Gold Coast

November 1st, 2009
Cordelia Kennedy asked:

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Annually between the months of April and November, The Gold Coast becomes the playplace for humpback whales.  The migration of these animals from the Antarctic waters, is a place for mating and giving birth. This 10000Km migration brings about thousands of visitors to the Gold Coast.

The migration timing can vary from year to year based mostly on the water temperatures. June to august is the most common time for the northern migration then again to the south from September to November.  The young males usually lead the groups with the pregnant cows and calves bringing up the rear.   

The humpback, at a maximum of 16 meters, is the largest whale to be found in the waters of Australia.  The whalers of the 19th century placed the value on the whales oil and whalebones, which could only be harvested off of a dead whale.  This caused the near extinction of many whale species.  Today the value of the whales is based oon the living whales and their impact on local business, the economy and the environment.

When southern right whales and blue whales became scarce, the whalers began to target the humpback, killing almost 8300 off the east coast between 1949 and 1962 and by the time the International Whaling Commission banned humpback whaling in the Southern Hemisphere in 1963, the whalers had reduced their population to about 5% of the pre-whaling existence. Illegal whaling by the Soviet Union were responsible for killing over 48,000 humpbacks between 1947 and 1973 and today there are still rogue whalers illegally operating in Australian waters.Thankfully, today, the population has shown steady recovery of around 10 % a year and in 2006 was estimated at around 8,000

Gold Coast whale watching tours begin operation in August and guarantee 100% sighting records. Whales in Paradise offers an unforgettable whale watching cruise along with homes of the rich and famous. Gold Coast Whale Watching cruises the Broadwater and Seaway departing from the Marina Mirage which includes morning tea and an educational commentary from the skipper.



GREGG

Gary Fong colored gels, used with Whale Tail?

October 30th, 2009
just me asked:


I have a Gary Fong Whale Tail and so far I’ve really been satisfied with the results it’s given - I decided to purchase another one to test out using the colored gels to change the color of a simple white backdrop -
I watched the video that came with the gels regarding creating that effect but it didn’t work for me - my background stayed white, no color cast.

I used two sb800 speedlights on stands - one with the whaletale w/ colored gel pretty close to the back drop, camera left - and the other camera right back of the room with a shoot thru umbrella.

My room is small, 12X10 I think so I’m thinking that maybe the left light was overpowering the one with the colored gel? I tinkered with the settings on both lights, lowering the power and so forth, still no luck. Not really sure what I’m doing wrong - anyone have any experience with this product that can “shed some light” to me on how to create this effect? I would so appreciate it!

GALEN

Whale Watching in New York Harbor

October 30th, 2009
AssociatedPress asked:


A wayward whale, currently swimming around in New York harbor, appears to be heading out to sea. The whale, possibly a humpback, was first noticed Wednesday. The whale sighting has caused quite a stir among tourists. (April 9)

HORACE

did any of you guys ever like the group ‘Whale’? they were dead good?

October 29th, 2009
migh asked:


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whale_%28band%29

…their ‘we care’ album’ s a cool, mixed bag o’ tricks…

there was the ‘hit’… http://youtube.com/watch?v=Fa5SiU2U5_k

and lot’s of other great goodness… http://youtube.com/watch?v=QwujYHLJay4&feature=related

http://youtube.com/watch?v=ktYTBY44O3E&feature=related

CAMERON

Hermanus: The Best Whale Watching Location in the World

October 28th, 2009
Kadence Buchanan asked:


Approximately two hours from Cape Town, visitors will find Hermanus. This quaint destination spot, located near the most southerly point on the continent, is considered to be a major tourist location due to the fact that it perhaps the best place in the entire world for whale watching. In particular, Hermanus is known for being an excellent location catch sight of the Southern Right Whale. When planning a visit for whale watching, keep in mind that peak times to catch sight of these beautiful sea creatures is from August to November. By December, whale watching opportunities usually begin to taper off. The cliff path that stretches the length of Hermanus offers the perfect opportunity for daily sightings during this time period.

Along the 12 km long cliff path, whale watchers will have plenty of opportunity to see these gentle giants close up in the breakers as well as the coves which are situated just below the path. In addition, there are numerous telescopes conveniently situated near the Old Harbour Museum; providing even more opportunities to catch sight of whales as dolphins at close range. The only Whale Crier in the entire world makes his rounds in Hermanus each and every day to inform visitors about the best sights to view whales.

There are actually several excellent spots in Hermanus for whale watching including De Kelders, Kleinmond and Betty’s Bay. De Hoop Nature Reserve is one of the favorite calving spots for the whales and as a result, the largest population of whales is frequently located there.

The most frequently spotted whales near the coastal areas are the Southern Right whales. These whales have been protected since 1935. These whales can be distinguished from other types of whales by their blow, which is v-shaped. Generally, the Southern Right whales begin arriving in the local area in the month of May so they can calve in the shallow waters. Byrde’s whales; however, make their home year around.

While Hermanus has become a major tourist destination in recent years, it has still managed to retain the atmosphere of a small fishing village. In addition to excellent accommodation options, visitors will also find a number of events and festivals throughout the year which keep the town busy.

Certainly whale watching is the most popular attraction in Hermanus; however, there are also plenty of other activities and attractions including a tour that will take you through the township as well as wine-tasting, sea-kayaking and even the chance to cage dive with great white sharks on Dyer Island, which is located nearby.

In addition, the Village Square Shopping Centre provides plenty of opportunity to shop, meet for a drink or enjoy a wonderful gourmet meal at one of the restaurants located in the piazza. Many of the local events and festivals are also staged here, including the Music Festival as well as the Whale Festival.

From whale watching to shopping and dining, Hermanus offers plenty activities and attractions for visitors interested in soaking up the local beauty.



RAPHAEL

Whale watching Four Seasons - Maui - On Outrigger

October 28th, 2009
viery70 asked:


At the FS hotel in Maui…went on the Outrigger and got really close to a whale…it wa so amazing.

MARSHALL

Vacation In Hawaii And Whale Watching

October 27th, 2009
July Somma asked:


Your Hawaiian wedding is about to create. Holding your beloved’s hand, you sit back and close your eyes as the airliner lifts into the sky. In a few hours your wedding begins–for honestly–in Hawaii.

Perhaps it is tranquility you take, wandering along trails or gardens amidst the aromatic smells of humid flora. Or perhaps it is stabbing food in a romantic restaurant that excites you.

With its snug erode and the beauty of its steamy scenery and unspoiled beaches, Hawaii is the most admired nuptial destination in the United States. The four major islands are Oahu, the Big Island (Hawaii), Kauai and Maui.

For those who want a more active time together in Hawaii, you can swim, snorkel, wall, sail or scuba dive. You can golf at some of the world’s top golf courses. There are many tourist activities to be seen, counting Polynesian cultural events, banquet cruises, helicopter sightseeing tours and marine rides. You can also sea kayak and mountain cycle and ramble through opulent vegetation or volcanic hillsides.

The diversity of Hawaii is so great, that you could squander weeks on these islands and still not see all its wonders. Knowing that your time will be narrow, I have included a briefing hasty of each island along with two of the most warmly rated nuptial hotels or resorts on each island.

Oahu Honolulu’s Waikiki seaside is perhaps the best-known coast in the U.S. Honolulu has many superb restaurants, cultural and historic sites, superb hotels, type trails and beaches. This is an exciting place if you want to be active during your adjourn.

Many people who stopover Hawaii for the first time prefer to pierce via Honolulu. By Hawaiian values, Honolulu has reasonably priced accomodations and many opportunities for inexpensive flights or all-inclusive letters. Also, on Oahu’s North Shore, some of the best surfing in the world can be found.

Two of the best wedding hotels on Oahu are in Honolulu. The Halekulani, is an advanced, light lodge–a harbor, really. It has been operating since 1917, and is the only lodge in the pomp that has usual a five-star rating from AAA. Outstanding tune and admirable dining are the promise of the Halekulani.

The Hyatt Regency Waikiki across from Waikiki shoreline has excellent views of the seaside, the surfers riding the waves, along with views of Diamond Head. You will be in the pinpoint of the action.

Big Island (Hawaii) The Big Island has the most diverse ecology of all the islands. In the Waipio Valley, you can traverse horseback, viewing mammoth waterfalls, thousand bottom cliffs and black sand beaches. At Volcanoes National Park you can see the world’s most active volcano, Kilauea.

The Kona coast (west elevation) is a seventy mile stretch of black magma-roofed coastline, famous for its russet and world-panache cavernous sea fishing.

The hilltop of Mauna Kea, the tallest mountain in Hawaii, offers stargazing opportunities different any other place in the world.

As for marriage hotels, here are two of the best:

The Kona Village Resort on the island’s west side is a virtually complete honeymoon destination. Locating on the beachfront, this lodge offers thatched-roof bungalows. You can swim, snorkel, explore marine life, focus a traditional luau or get a work, all within this remedy. Travel and Leisure Magazine have rated this as one of the world’s top 50 romantic getaways.

Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows in Kohala offers many unique skin. Palm plants and flowing pools greet you as you enter the hall around which the lodge is centered.

Oceanfront rooms have amazing views. With its accomodating team and the military, this option is acute. It skinned two of the island’s best golf courses. The South course, built on a lava tide, has spectacular views.

Maui has both world-rank resorts and letting condominiums to take from amidst open wonders.

Here you will find Haleakala National Park, Maui’s central real attraction. Hawaiians value the mountain as a sacred place. Many people direct from sea plane to the 10,000 base height of the crater to inspect the sunrise.

Along with the real beauty on the path to Hana, Maui boasts some of the best beaches on the islands. It also has some top-rated (PGA Tour) golf courses. Snorkeling and scuba adventures abound on the west and south seaboard of the island.

If your foresight of the refine Hawaii honeymoon is to get away from it all and still have many comforts and conveniences, Maui is the place for you.

Hotel Hana-Maui, on the east coast of the island, is noted for its quiet and luxury help, so if you want to brake-down and relax, this hotel is solid to please you.

Hotel Hana-Maui is a long transport from Kahului airport over twisting roads. If you wish to forego this adventure, hasty into Hana airport from Honolulu is your best bet.

The Four Seasons Maui at Wailea is a delicate goods with an open patio of reflecting ponds, fountains and gardens. Nearly all the rooms have ocean views and lanais where you can stalk the sunset and see whales in iciness.

You can have a press in the privacy of your own shelter, listening to the waves rolling in on Wailea Beach. Also, surrounding the hotel are great restaurants and shopping, besides the seashore.

Kauai, the Garden Isle, is enclosed with flowers and stifling vegitation disparate anywhere besides.

There is no nightlife on this island, just the moving and beauty of tropical paradise with emerald valleys and blond beaches.

The natural beauty of the island can be found along the NaPali coast or in Waimea Canyon. Calling the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Waimea Canyon, with its ruddy lava beds bursts with ever-varying paint throughout the year.

The island offers miles of trails through tropical forests and along ocean cliffs, and has many opportunities for *********** and outdoor adventures.

Priceville Hotel on the North Shore’s NaPali coast is richly furnished in a casually elegant form. It sits on a precipice between the sparkler-navy waters of Hanalei Bay and the volcanic mountains. Most rooms have ocean views. With access to Puu Poa Beach, spas, tennis, stream and ocean kayaking, you can do as much or as little as you like. Private dinners on the beach are open if you request a romantic sunset together, and money is not a bother.

The Hyatt Regency Kauai Resort and Spa is on the South Shore. The proof was exotic, and the many pools are incredible, meandering through diverse vegetation and landscape. With a golf course, multiple spas and five restaurants, you will never have to dump this resort if you don’t want to. Of course this all comes with a high charge tag, but if you are looking for luxury on your Hawaiian honeymoon, this is the place.



CLEMENT

San Juan Island Whale Watching www.orcawhalewatch.com

October 27th, 2009
orcawhalewatch asked:


A day of whale watching in the San Juan Islands on our new boat, the Western Explorer.

MARSHALL