#you’re going to coasts across the country EXCEPT FOR the gulf coast!!!

[asterdeer]

no offense but if mbmbam doesn’t come to gulf shores for a twenty sun and sea surf the vibe live show then they don’t deserve the year name

[writeblrfantasy]

So! I may or may not have just finished editing pawns? I realize I didn’t tell you guys but last friday I finished the first draft and today I am officially done editing! I’m beyond proud of myself for finishing this, and to celebrate, here is the first chapter of pawns, in Isos’ point of view! I will still be posting excerpts because there’s more of this wip I want to share, but ahh thank you all so much for your interest in this project! it’s meant the world to me and these characters are some of my favorites i’ve ever written <3

taglist: @magic-is-something-we-create​ @kespada​ @forgottenrevelation @tmifangirl24​ @a-place-of-babble​ @myhusbandsasemni​

transcription under the cut because things are blurry when they shouldn’t be

I had always known a day like this would come. It was only a matter of when.

I changed masters often, more often than any other slaves. I was somewhat famous to the slaveholding lords of the slaveholding country Cera, and I had never stayed with a master for more than a year since I was five.

The least I had ever stayed with a master was a day. He’d taken me, his new prize, to show off to the lord he was dining with that evening. While my master was out of the room, his host restrained me and covered my mouth, lest I did not obey his order to comply. He snuck me away and killed my master when he came looking for me in a rage.

I was so desired partly because I could read, partly because I had a way with other slaves. I could rally them to me or put them in their place as surely as masters could. I’d never known why, but they listened to me.

So when one day my current master told me, “You’re going to become Lord Tohnicar’s tomorrow,” I thought nothing of the change, or even that it was to Lord Tohnicar. If I thought to flatter myself, which I did, he had heard of my reputation and wanted me for himself. Just like every other rich slaveholder in the country. It seemed inevitable that I would catch the eye of someone like him.

What I thought of was Lord Tohnicar himself. If I were anyone else, I would have pled and begged to be spared that torture. Even if I had known I would someday end up at Lord Tohnicar’s estate of Essely, I had not allowed myself to truly think upon it. My master even looked a little sorry as he told me, though this was almost definitely because of his loss versus mine. My ego was not so big as to assume he cared about what Tohnicar would do to me.

Lord Tohnicar was notoriously hard to please. He had high standards for his slaves, and if they didn’t make the cut, he threw them out. He deemed them not worth selling. To throw out a slave as such…I shuddered at the thought. Some thought he was too stupid to realize he was freeing them, but even if that were true, me and many others knew it would be a disgrace to have such a cloud over your head. Not even good enough to be sold.

You would be insulted and fought in every bar, free or not. You would be forced, eventually, to flee across the border to Morland, where slavery was illegal and they looked down on slaveholders with great distaste. Morland was far from perfect, but to some slaves the thought of it was paradise. I was not one of them.

Tohnicar was Moorish, but he’d come to Cera out of nowhere a few years prior. He’d entered the Ceran fold just when the old lord of the Essely estate died in his sleep. Tohnicar pounced on the auction for the estate and won it by a margin. Some said he’d won it with his Moorish queen’s money. His win had angered Ceran lords greatly, because to own that seaside estate was to control the everlasting tensions and wars between Cera and Morland. The estate itself was humble, but it sat on the coast of the Esselian sea, and its borders stretched far down the coast.

Morland was perpetually angry that they had to go the long way around to the sea, since Cera prohibited them from taking the shortcut through to the gulf. Morland had invaded Cera many times throughout the centuries to take the access they wanted and needed for trade from other continents, but Cera had always driven them out. The owner of Essely had the perfect view and the perfect power to restrict the limited access Morland had even further, or they could choose to open it up, ensuring something resembling peace between the two countries, though that wouldn’t likely stick unless Cera got rid of their slaveholders.

Despite the man who owned it, I’d always been excited and curious about seeing Essely in person. I tried to hang on to any positivity I could on the horseback ride there, with nothing but the clothes on my back and the small worn journal tucked inside my thin clothes.

Tohnicar had the money to buy and dispose of slaves as he liked, like they were nothing more than momentary amusements to him. The slaveholders throughout Cera feared him too much to refuse him their slaves when he demanded them. He fit in so well with the savagery of the Cerans, I found it hard to believe he was not one. Moorish were known for being stiff, prudish, and cold, not hot tempered and bloodthirsty like the Cerans they hated. I didn’t let myself think about my dark fate too much, because I could change nothing about it.

I wondered what my duties would be. I was not a troublemaking slave. I did not have a bad record. I was too free-thinking and curious for my own good, I knew that, but I was obedient. I was fortunate not to work in the fields. Each master I had usually put me there a day or two until they watched me faint from the sun. At first the master would think I was faking, and I would never deny these claims. Then he would call in his physician. A weakness of the blood, they would all say. I was not faking.

I learned that this weakness was a gift. I would look forward to the day my new master would decide to put me in the house, as he always did. I would watch the emotions flicker across his face, anger, annoyance, a moment’s cruelty, and finally rueful acceptance, then he would sigh and yank me inside. No man needed a house slave nearly as much as he needed a field slave, which was why I was always quick to prove my usefulness indoors.

I was not like the men in the fields in any way, tall and muscular and calloused from years of grueling work. Skinny, weak blooded me was happy to watch them from the windows while I did my master’s chores, showed his guests in and tended to them, offered to read to his children when he complained of his distaste to do so himself.

When I offered to read to them, he would accept suspiciously and watch from the doorway the first night I did so. If the children had a favorite book, I would read that. If all they wanted was a simple tale or story, I would tell one of the many I’d learned and overheard and read about in my life.

That first night, I would pick a story that was safe for my master’s suspicious ears, something about noble children trumping slaves. Sometimes a useful lesson. But once the master trusted me indefinitely and stopped coming to watch, I’d tell them the stories I preferred, personal favorites I would never let any master hear. Those were some of my best memories. I would tell them not to tell their father about those stories, and most of the time they were young enough not to know why I wasn’t supposed to be telling them those stories. To them I was just the nice man who told them bedtime stories. I’d never gotten caught yet.

Tohnicar had no children, and when we arrived, I was not sent to the fields. I barely had time to take in the tall house perched on top of the rocky cliff with the sound of the ocean crashing down on the beach and the rocks beyond. I had only served one master with a seaside estate before, when I was too young to remember much of it.

Tohnicar met me and my escort at the gates guarding the house. I hadn’t thought much about what he’d look like, but it wasn’t this. He looked younger than any master I’d had before, not much older than me. Certainly barely old enough to be considering marriage, let alone children. Yet his blue-green eyes showed age beyond his young face. My eyes were drawn to the dark hair that favored most Mor, the silver revolver that sat in a holster on his right hip, the thin white shirt unbuttoned at the top to let the summer breeze in, the ugly scowl on his face.

A few slaves watched from the fields, but no guards accompanied Tohnicar. He growled a word at my old master, something like thanks. His took my arm in a vice grip. I thought his fingers would leave bruises, but I also thought bruises would be the least of my worries in my time with him compared to the emotional toll.

He paid my master with a fist full of gold that made my eyes widen, still with his grip tight on my arm. My master pocketed the money, never looking directly at him.

I allowed myself but a glance back at my old master, who grimaced as my new master took me inside the gates and shut them behind us. He locked the heavy padlock with an iron key he kept around his neck under his shirt. I noted this for the future.

“Get back to work,” he snarled in Ceran, and I looked up at the slaves scattered around the tiny yard. They were all holding trowels, hoes, shovels, tending to the pretty garden around the house. He repeated the order when they continued to stare at me. I was surprised he hadn’t forced the slaves to learn Moorish for his convenience. He led me inside the house and the slaves got back to work. I looked at them as we passed, searching for bruises and other signs of abuse, but I saw nothing mottling their skin except the slave’s tattoo on their left forearms.

My new master dragged me to the top of his winding and tall wooden house. I was not given much time to get my bearings, but I knew I would explore later. He pulled open a door and finally let me go. He sat down in a chair beside a window with a breathtaking view of the sea. When I looked at him, the evil snarl had left his face, replaced by a pleasant smile. I blinked, wondering if I was seeing the same person.

He appeared not to have a care in the world, and obviously found my confusion amusing. “Isos, answer one question for me, and then you can have the choice of your complete freedom, I promise you.” His eyes glittered. This was clearly a joke, a test meant to humiliate me. I pitied any slave who fell for it.

My mind began running through the potential questions he might ask and all the ways I would answer wrong. There was no way for me to win here. “What are your feelings about Morland?” he asked.

This, naturally, made me hesitate. He was Moorish. One wrong word and that pleasant smile would be gone. I chose my words carefully. “I think, from what I’ve heard, Master, that Morland is a lovely place.”

“No, no, not what I want,” he said, waving. He looked disappointed, which sent panic spiking in my gut. I was already imagining dark basements from which the screams of the slaves floated up and kept you awake. Or perhaps I would be whipped in the yard, made an example of.

“I want you to tell me how you truly feel. Unbiased. Don’t worry about offending me, you’re not going to. Pretend as if you’re speaking to an equal. One of your friends.”

I barely kept from snorting.

Have it his way, then.

“I have little knowledge about the true lifestyle of the Moorish,” I said with a shrug, “but being a Mor sounds better than being a slave. If the rumors are true, prudes in stiff collars are better than masters with whips.”

He stared at me for a moment, speechless. In the silence that followed, I imagined my death over and over again.

“That’s better,” he finally said. “Thank you.” He ran a hand over his young and beardless face. Pleasant surprise flashed in his eyes. I allowed myself to study him now that the threats of torture and death were temporarily eased. He was tall, taller than me by a head, and the warmth of his eyes was totally different from any master I’d had before. He was, I had to admit, handsome. But those thoughts led nowhere good. I put a stern stop to them.

“Most of my new men don’t understand the words, ‘you won’t offend me,’” he said. “I can hardly blame them, but it’s refreshing to have one who obeys.” He smiled in irony, but the cogs in my brain were turning furiously, hurrying to adjust, to decipher his words. Was this a hidden command to submit? Was the smile fake? By goddess Rhouth, how had I let myself think it was real? I couldn’t afford to let my guard down at the first sign of a real smile. That wasn’t how I’d stayed alive for twenty years.

“I am exactly as I seem now,” said he, as if reading my mind. The way he looked into my eyes certainly suggested he could. “You do not have to fear me. Though these words, as well, generally fall on deaf ears. I’m afraid my reputation cannot be helped, and I’m sorry for all you’ve heard about me and probably worried about.” He sighed, then brightened. “But I knew you would be different. You have a reputation as much as I do.” He leaned back in his chair, folded his arms, and eyed me.

I held perfectly still, betraying nothing on my face.

He smiled. “You are cautious, too. And observant. And, smart, I can tell. Good. Now, I offer you a choice. You can either leave with your complete freedom and a pouch of gold, or you can stay with me as my equal.”

“As you wish, Master,” I said before I could stop myself. To my amazement, he just laughed.

“You have a week to decide,” he said. “Spend time with my other men, see what you think, what they tell you. See how you like the barracks. Should you stay with me, your job will be easy, and I will be a kind master. I swear on my queen. And you, along with all my others, will be taken into the fold of something...” He paused. “Special. I’m sorry to say I can’t tell you what it is.

“Should you choose to leave, that pouch of gold will get you anywhere you wish to go, but your memories of this conversation, and your time with me, will be erased. In their places, I will be painted in a crueler light.” He tried to smile, but it looked more like a grimace. “A necessary evil. You will believe that I, disgusted with you, have cast you out to fend for yourself. If anyone asks, you’ll say you stole the gold before I disposed of you, because who in the world would believe that I gave it willingly?”

He was right. I was instantly intrigued by him, despite the rational side of me whispering I shouldn’t be. But he said I had a week. A week to quiet the excited, curious thrumming of my heart, and listen to the conclusion my brain had already reached: only a slave who had a death wish took freedom from kind, conspiring masters who promised to include you in something ‘special.’

He stood to shoo me towards the door. The little room was cramped with the both of us at our full height and the furniture. Through our entire conversation, he had never left his chair. I realized with a jolt it was so I wouldn’t be intimidated by his height.

“Go be with the others, Isos,” he said with a smile. He said my name with a little flair, like he liked how it sounded in his mouth. Eye-soese. My other masters, on the rare occasions they’d remember my name or bother to use it, would spit it out like bile, usually with rage smarting in their eyes. There was no rage in Tohnicar’s eyes. When he looked at me, his eyes lit up, the same way I had looked at wildflowers in my first master’s garden until I learned that it was not wise to stop my work and smell the flowers where he could see.

“I look forward to your decision.” Tohnicar winked, and closed the door after me.

[tanadrin]

EUMini: The Map

Map modding is my favorite part of EU4 modding (except positions.txt, uuuughhh), so I’m going to talk about the map for a bit. Here’s a zoomed-out view of the whole thing:

It’s flat, of course; and EU4 doesn’t properly support flat maps (contrast CK2 or Imperator, which don’t support round ones), so I get around this the same way Voltaire’s Nightmare does: a big empty province of nothin’ to the right of the main map, and judiciously placed decorate border pieces. Currently there’s also an isolated section of ocean to the northeast, which the AI does not handle well (indeed, at all), but since a state that extends across all of Adwera to touch both regions should be a rare event, this does not worry me yet. It’s something I may have to deal with in the future.

A note on terminology: Rezana is the continent to the southwest. Adwera is the northern/northeastern continent. The large islands in the middle are Khairun (north) and Bescura (south). The archipelagic region between Bescura and Adwera is Furayqa.

Here’s a zoomed-out view of the regions, and of the areas/states:

The states almost all have exactly five provinces in them. That probably won’t be true if I go back and revise parts of the map, which I’m planning on doing at some point, but for now I think the area setup works pretty well. The default number of starting states is much lower, and only slightly affected by technology, which I think is appropriate for the much smaller map.

Hidvera, the northernmost region of Adwera, is urban and highly developed. The province of Shyuri is home to the largest city on the continent, the City of Kings, which is the symbolic throne of the paramount Nurhani monarchs.

On the other side of the Twin Gulfs we have Shushtar, a large, dry region that’s nevertheless home to some large cities along the great rivers that run from the Ghattari Mountains down to the Ororan Coast. Oror, to the southwest of Shushtar, is another fairly urbanized region, home to numerous small states.

The coast of Rezana, in the southwest, is the least-developed region. This isn’t true for the entire continent--southern Rezana is in fact home to the Issarans, a major power that would invade Adwera a few centuries from the time represented here--but northern Rezana has always been heavily forested, thinly populated, and underdeveloped. Nonetheless, there are trade goods here not present anywhere else on the map, and the trade routes going both directions around Khairun start here, so if you’re keen on building a mercantile empire, it may well be worth your while to snap up some of the real estate in this region.

The northern trade routes have their end node in Hidvera, in the City of Kings node. The southern routes end here, in the seas around the island of Ogidar. Ogidar and Mashgal (the purple region directly east) are pretty well-developed, like Oror, and the inland trade that comes down from Ghattari and Shushtar to Oror can also be diverted south to this node. This is a great home region for mercantile empires, and more than a few of the starting tags in this region are merchant republics or plutocracies.

And here’s the image file I used to plan the distribution of trade goods:

Dyes, naval supplies (i.e., old growth forest), spices, fur, and tea are primarily found in the southwest, especially Rezana. Chinaware and silk are produced in the Theisei region of Khairun. Cloth is a major export of Mashgal, central Oror, and Ogidar, and wine is produced in Hidvera, and western Shushtar. Copper, iron, and gold are mostly found in mountainous regions like Ghattari and Akkil, and tropical wood is found only in southern Bescura (but even then, that’s probably too far north).

This is the base image I used to plan things like country layouts, religion, culture, and trade nodes:

I include it because it gives a good overview of the size and shape of all 458 occupied land provinces (dark gray is impassable mountains). It also shows some points where I’d like to revise the map in future: Hidvera, Oror, and Shushtar in particular could use some more small provinces, and some of the islands in the Furayq Sea are annoyingly small.

While my goal was not to closely replicate gameplay in Europe (Adwera is, if anything, culturally and historically inspired by William Dalrymple’s books on India), I do like the way features like the elaborate Mediterranean coastline, the proximity between Europe and Africa, and the tradenode setup in the base game translate into gameplay, and I chose this part of my conworld in particular as the basis for the map because it gave me the opportunity to try to replicate those. Still on the fence about adding an HRE-analogue though. It’s great gameplay, and I love the systems EU4 has for representing polycentric power structures. Maybe an unholy combination of the daimyos/HRE/Emperor of China mechanics all stacked on top of each other? We’ll see.

[kittykates]

#vaKATEtion: Thaila-la-land 2017 Part 01

     One of my favorite Leonardo DiCaprio movie is The Beach. Some says that the movie has ruined the Lord of the Flies book  for the generation X which was written by Alex Garland. Honesty, the beginning of the movie was spectacular but towards the end, it was not adapted very well since the book was freaking auhhhmazing.

Anyway, why am I rambling about The Beach? Because on my bucket list, Thailand is one of the country I look forward to exploring and the setting of the book and the movie is in Thailand ( But they say that Alex Garland inspiration is the Philippines).

    Thailand is the most famous gateway to Asia by almost all back packers, tourist and travelers across the globe. I’ve met people here in Dubai and outside of it who always say that Thailand is one of the best place they’ve been to and I get it. People are gravitating towards a place full of culture, amazing food, spectacular beaches, one of a kind parties, and generally locals who are very hospitable and has a great disposition in life.

I, myself, was not immune to it’s charm thus, the reason why my best friend Jay and I planned our first trip outside the Philippines and Dubai to be none other than Thailand.

                         Ko Wua Talap, Ang Thong National Marine Park

We wanted to experience Thailand on it’s full glory and we went their during the summer of this year visiting 5 of the top places to go when in Thailand.

Bangkok

Koh Samui

Koh Pangan

Phuket

Phi Phi Islands

Since my best friend and I are both in the travel industry, we drafted our own itinerary researching hard on the best routes, transportation, party to go to, accommodations and places we both want to see.

It was a challenge because we have only 7 days to visit 5 different places and try to experience and be a pseudo-backpacker.

From Manila we traveled to Bangkok and only stayed for 10 hours before flying to Koh Samui.

                          Got a good deal with Thai Airways

                              Riding the BTS to the city

We wanted to eat authentic Thai food and experience the wild side of Bangkok. An overnight experience was not enough but we did try to make the most out of it. 

We went around  Sukhumvit Road and bar hopped a little. Drinking local beers and people watch. There are so many expats and tourist around it  feels like I’m  still in Dubai.

We headed to Bangkok’s red light district in Patpong and I got amazed on how legit pretty are the Lady Boys are. I can say it was an experience. 

                                  Going local in Bangkok

The bars are facing each other and tables and chairs scattered the street so you can just sit down, grab your favorite poison and enjoy the show. People may get a little rowdy as the night goes on but it’s already expected.

The mango sticky rice was the champion of my night. All the best food are just food stalls by the side of the road or hole in the wall type of restaurant. Those legit thai taste you are looking for are prepared by the locals effortlessly plus is so cheap you can stuff your face until you cry sriracha sauce.

By two in the morning, we are already rushing to the airport to catch our flight to Koh Samui. 

Koh Samui has the best looking airport for me with it’s open style. You’ll get the look and feel of a tropical island once you landed and checked out.

There are so many good places to stay in Koh Samui. If you’re a couple who are in their honeymoon the best place would be Maenam. If you will be going with your families go check out Bhoput and Lamai area. But if you’re like us, wannabe backpackers, party goers and adventure junkies, the best place to stay is in Chaweng beach and the number one hotel in the area is Ark Bar Beach Resort. Just make sure to choose a room far from the beach since it tends to get a little bit noisy when the party starts.

                            You know which bed is mine :))))))

We checked in, freshen up, put on our swimsuits and had coffee while waiting for our pick up for our full day tour of Ang Thong National Marine Park. It is an archipelago of over forty islands in the central gulf coast of Southern Thailand. 

All of the islands are uninhabited and undeveloped except for two. One being Ko Wua Talap where the famous viewpoint and head quarter is located and other, Ko Paluay, which is inhabited by some locals who still earn a living from fishing.

Mind you we did not have any sleep after partying in Bangkok and we are running on low energy but the trip would be so worth it so had to push it.

We got our tour package with 100 Degrees East. We had so many options but this is by far the best tour package since they have their own speedboat and there are so many good reviews about them. They did not disappoint.  Their team are fun, very friendly and accommodating.

From the life jacket which is by the way clean unlike most jackets on different tours, their snorkeling gears and diving gears are top notch.

The people who can join the tour is very limited to only 10 people however, it actually is better than joining big groups where in you won’t really be able to bond with all the people on the tour. 

The local authorities manning the Marine Park will not allow boats to travel without life jackets even though you know how to swim. Safety first!

On our way to the Marine Park which would take around 30 to 40 minutes.

It was drizzling a bit but a little rain won’t be able to stop us.

The salt in my mouth at this point was overflowing due to over snorkeling. It was awesome though. We saw some sting rays, bazillions of sea urchins if you get tired of swimming you’d probably be dead once you step on them, a tiny barracuda and my heart skipped  a bit, transparent fishies ( I don’t know what they are called), millions of dory and many more. I keep following the fishes, our guide was probably pissed off. HAHAHA

                             Thai feast in this beautiful island

We then kayaked around the other islands for us to explore them.

           You can see the Sphinx like island on our back ground

                          Amazed at how beautiful are the islands

Our crew/bangkero/tour guide/life guard/waiter are the best photographers. They basically know where is the right angle to take good photos of all the islands we can visit and explore. Super props to these guys.

                                             Beshies 2017

Ko Wua Talap, this is the headquarters of the Ang Thong Marine Park. This view is seen in so many postcards of Thailand I just had to take plenty of photos here.

                                    Tanned AF

You had to trek to get to this place so it is advisable to bring rubber shoes/ trekking shoes. But since we were wearing our slippers only we did not trek until the highest view point. Now that I think of it, I’m kind of disappointed but I was very tired so.......Yeah.....Lame excuses.

It was well worth it though and this post was suppose to be for 2017.

Guess what? It’s 2020 and I still want to post it. Fuck it!:)

[devonartisrealtor]

5 Mind-Blowing Reasons Why Living in Southwest Florida is a Must

Welcome to the land of sunshine and happiness that is Southwest Florida. Located off the southern half of the gulf coast, come explore, take in, and be a part of a region nestled between some of the country’s most dynamic beaches and nature preserves. Ever wondered what it would be like to live in paradise? Well keep reading to see why thousands of people for generations have flocked to this hidden gem and now call Southwest Florida home.

#1 Climate

Southwest Florida boast some of the country’s most spectacular weather, especially during the winter season, with the average temperature hovering at 75 degrees. The summer months remain relatively warm with average summer temps climbing to the low 90s, along with afternoon showers that quickly dissipate to bring forth beautiful sunsets. With bountiful sunshine and the breeze from the gulf, this makes sitting on the lanai, or basking on the beach possible all year round.

#2 Natural Beauty & Wildlife

Explore the natural beauty that encompasses and surrounds Southwest Florida. From the exceptional landscape of the Everglades, to the many nature preserves, and state parks that are home to unique wildlife and a variety of birds that inhabit the land. If you’re looking for your next big catch, then look no further because Southwest Florida’s got you covered. Whether your deep-sea fishing off the coast or casting your line off the fantastic Naples Pier, the fish are sure to be biting.

#3 Beaches

Miles of breath-taking shorelines await your presence here in Southwest Florida. Immerse yourself on the Islands of Sanibel and Captiva, or discover the beauty of Bonita, Fort Myers, or Naples beach. Whatever your pleasure let the warm waters and tranquility take you away. Delight in walking alongside glistening water with the warm sand between your toes on some of Florida’s award-winning beaches.

#4 Proximity to Other Cities

Location is everything, and Southwest Florida has it. The heart of Southwest Florida is anchored by the “City of Palms” which is Fort Myers. It is closely surrounded by a variety of other cities and towns including Naples, Cape Coral, Estero, Bonita Springs, and Ave Maria. Wherever you land in Southwest Florida you are never to far from experiencing all that Florida has to offer. With drives to destinations like Miami, Tampa, Ft. Lauderdale, and Sarasota all within a few hours reach, you’ll never be far from entertainment and fun across the Southern Florida Peninsula.

#5 Outdoor Activities

With Sunshine always at your fingertips, take advantage of the many adventures that Southwest Florida has to offer. Enjoy kayaking down one of our many canals, taking an airboat ride through the famous Florida Everglades, walking the scenic grounds of the Historic Edison Ford Estates, or go shelling on the magnificent Marco Island. Southwest Florida is also home to several stunning State Parks. Take pleasure in snorkeling at Cayo Costa, boating at Delnor-Wiggins Pass, or go hiking in the Estero Bay Preserve. Don’t worry if nature isn’t for you, we have fantastic outdoor shopping at our Miromar Outlets and Coconut Point Mall for your enjoyment.

Southwest Florida invites you to visit, but we would love to welcome you home!

Are you considering making SouthWest Florida your home ?

Contact Devon Artis Realtor with The Simonelli Real Estate Group

[mitchelladonovan]

Orange Beach Bicycle Rental

Orange Beach, a lovely gulf coast town, is deceptive in size, and there's more to see and do here than meets the eye. So, here's a quick rundown of places you might want to visit during your next trip to Orange Beach. For more information on Kayak Rental In Gulf Shores, visit our website today.

1. The beaches along this stretch of the gulf are noted for their stunning white sands and stunning shoreline.

2. Another common method to spend some free time is to go on a day cruise. The cruises vary by company and include guided fishing trips, dolphin viewing tours, dinner cruises, glass bottom boat rides, and sunset cruises, among other activities.

3. No trip to Orange Beach is complete without a stop at The Wharf, which is nothing short of a mega-entertainment complex. You can enjoy the 10,000-seat amphitheatre, which hosts a diverse range of exceptional artists and organisations from across the country.

4. Golfers will enjoy The Wharf Resort's 18-hole championship golf course, which has a dining restaurant, pro shop, and plantation-style clubhouse.

5. Both kids and adults will enjoy a stroll down the Wharf's lazy river or a few thrilling revolutions on the 112 ft. tall Ferris wheel that rises over the end of the wharf and is the largest in the southeast. It can hold 140 people in 24 gondolas, each of which is guaranteed to offer the greatest view in town.

The SanRoc Cay Marina is number six on our list. You can rent a fishing boat for the day, go snorkelling or on a dolphin-spotting tour, or simply relax and enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the four superb restaurants.

7. Parasailing and renting a wave runner are two excellent ways to begin an Orange Beach trip. Both are popular summer activities, and there are a variety of firms that provide parasailing and wave runner rentals. Parasailers will enjoy a relaxing trip along the coast while soaring far above the ground and taking in the spectacular views. Renters of wave runners can either take instruction or go off on their own if they are experienced.

8. Finally, there's Adventure Island, which caters to the inner child in all of us. This is a children's paradise, complete with a five-story volcano that erupts many times a day with light, steam, and music. A roller coaster, bumper boats, arcade, go-kart track, and one of the most amazing miniature golf courses in the area are also available. There's also a 420-foot zip line that you can accelerate down with a pulley if you're feeling very bold. Want to know more about Bicycle Rental In Gulf Shores? Visit our website for more information.

Regardless of the season, this part of the Gulf coast is a family-friendly, adventurous, and gorgeous vacation destination. Whether you visit The Wharf or the beach, this list should assist you in determining which Orange Beach attractions should be at the top of your vacation to-do list.

[trekadvisers]

Use Emirates’ Fifth Freedom Routes to Enhance Your Flights to Europe

Courtesy of The Points Guy by Ethan Steinberg

It’s no secret that US airlines are not fans of the Gulf carriers, specifically the so-called Middle Eastern Three (or “ME3” for short). For years, US airlines have lobbied to restrict the expansion efforts of this trio, composed of Emirates, Etihad and Qatar, claiming they receive illegal government subsidies that threaten American jobs. One of the main points of contention in this dispute was around “fifth freedom routes,” or flights that an airline operates between two countries that are not its home country.

What’s interesting about this particular aspect of the dispute is that Emirates is the only one of the ME3 to operate fifth freedom routes to and from the US. In fact, it only operates two, both of which go to Europe. Fifth freedom routes can be a fun way to fly a top-notch foreign carrier in place of a run-of-the-mill one, and Emirates’ service to Europe is no exception. Today we’ll take a look at how to use these fifth freedom routes to upgrade your next flight to the continent.

Booking Emirates Fifth Freedom Flights to Europe

Let’s start with the basics. Emirates’ two fifth-freedom routes are both from the East Coast to Europe. One is from New York-JFK to Milan (MXP) operated by the carrier’s flagship Airbus A380 aircraft, and the other is from Newark (EWR) to Athens (ATH) on a Boeing 777-300ER. Both flights continue on to Dubai after stopping in Europe to load and unload passengers.

You have a few different options for booking these flights using points and miles, though there are some obvious winners and losers. Given that several of these loyalty programs use distance-based award charts that have different prices for JFK-MXP and EWR-ATH, I’m going to split this up into two sections. We’ll start with the more popular New York to Milan route. Not only is it a shorter distance (and therefore cheaper to book with both JAL Mileage Bank and Qantas Frequent Flyer), but this is the route that features Emirates’ flagship A380, complete with onboard bar and shower.

Program Transfer Partners One-way Award Rates JAL Mileage Bank

Marriott

  Economy: 23,000 miles

Business: 42,000 miles

First: 65,000 miles

Emirates Skywards Amex, Capital One, Marriott

Economy: 38,750 miles

Business: 62,500

First: 85,000 miles

Qantas Frequent Flyer Citi, Capital One, Marriott

Economy: 28,000 miles

Business: 60,000 miles

First: 90,000 miles

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan Marriott

Economy: 47,500

Business: 105,000 miles

First: 180,000 miles

While you won’t be disappointed flying an Emirates 777-300ER between Newark and Athens, expect to pay higher award rates with the two distance-based loyalty programs:

Program Transfer Partners One-way Award Rates JAL Mileage Bank

Marriott

  Economy: 37,000 miles

Business: 60,000 miles

First: 90,000 miles

Emirates Skywards Amex, Capital One, Marriott

Economy: 38,750 miles

Business: 62,500

First: 85,000 miles

Qantas Frequent Flyer Citi, Capital One, Marriott

Economy: 35,000 miles

Business: 72,000 miles

First: 108,000 miles

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan Marriott

Economy: 47,500

Business: 105,000 miles

First: 180,000 miles

The one thing missing from the charts above is the cost of taxes and fuel surcharges, which can skyrocket quickly on Emirates awards booked through JAL, Emirates or Qantas, especially in premium cabins. You can expect to pay about ~$180 in taxes for economy awards and ~$550 for business or first class awards in each direction.

To avoid these charges, consider booking through Alaska Mileage Plan. While the carriers award rates are absurdly high for such a short hop across the Atlantic, you won’t have to pay any fuel surcharges. Your first class award will only cost you $19 in taxes and fees as a result. You can check out this guide for an in-depth walkthrough of how to calculate and avoid fuel surcharges on Emirates awards.

Is It Worth It?

Of course, Emirates is not the only airline operating these routes. If we lump JFK and Newark together and look at flights from the New York area to Milan, we can see that all three US legacy carriers fly the same route (along with Alitalia and Air Italy). Both United and Delta also fly nonstop from New York to Athens, though for the purpose of this post, I’ll focus on Milan where the competition is the fiercest.

Now Emirates award rates in every cabin are higher than what you’d pay on most other airlines, but you have to ask yourself what you’re getting in return for that. Even in economy, Emirates is known for providing edible meals, friendly crew and an in-flight entertainment selection that’s enough to keep you occupied all the way to Dubai.

You typically won’t hear those adjectives used to describe other carriers on a transatlantic flight. Instead, phrases like “mediocre and lackluster” come to mind, and “decent, if you have no other option available.” You’re certainly not going to find a cabin this clean and spacious on most of the American planes flying to and from Europe:

Economy class cabin of the Emirates A380 between New York-JFK and Milan. (Photo by Julian Kheel / The Points Guy)

I’m not sure I’d go so far as to say that this economy cabin is worth paying extra for (8,750 extra miles if you book directly through Emirates), but one huge benefit of Emirates is that the A380 has roughly 400 economy seats taking up the entire lower deck, meaning you’re almost guaranteed to find award space.

The difference in passenger experience gets even sharper in premium cabins, which is really saying something, as Emirates’ A380 business class seats are far from cutting-edge.

Emirates A380 business class. (Photo by Emily McNutt / The Points Guy)

That being said, Emirates does have an undeniable edge when it comes to hard product, as it offers a walk-up bar for business and first class passengers (if you can find time to enjoy it on the short, eight-hour flight).

  Again, if you need convincing to pick Emirates over the domestic competition, just think about your other options. While American no longer uses 757s with recliner seats to Europe, you’ll still find many transatlantic routes operated by 767 aircraft that don’t even have built in TV screens.

Something’s missing in American Airlines’ 767 business class. (Photo by JT Genter / The Points Guy)

The award rate for Emirates isn’t bad either — 62,500 miles is a hair above the what most carriers charge for a one-way business class award to Europe. The $550 in taxes and fees does sting, but at least you know you’ll be getting a greatly-improved flight experience, from food to seat to service.

Last but not least is Emirates first class, a bucket list item for award travelers (and something absolutely worth trying once, no matter the cost). The gold-studded suites are one of the best first class products in the entire world, and while features like the in-seat minibar might be a little over the top, that’s half the fun.

Yes the flight to Milan is short, but you should have just enough time to eat …

drink….

shower …

… and change into your pajamas before grabbing some shut-eye.

It goes without saying that this is a significant improvement over what any US airline can offer. Your only problem after an Emirates first class flight to Europe is saying farewell after you land.

Bottom Line

No matter what cabin you choose to book, there generally isn’t a more comfortable way to get to Europe on points and miles. Picking the right program to redeem for Emirates award is a challenge, as some miles (like JAL) are hard to earn and others (like Alaska) have higher award rates. Still, if you’re looking to upgrade your next trip to Europe, there’s no better way to do so than to splurge for one of Emirates’ fifth-freedom routes. While the taxes and fuel surcharges are high in premium cabins, you get what you pay for with a massively-improved onboard experience.

All photos, including featured photo, by Nick Ellis / The Points Guy (unless otherwise noted).

Original Article: https://thepointsguy.com/guide/emirates-fifth-freedom-routes-europe/

Check out the original post here: http://www.jamcosolutionsllc.com/use-emirates-fifth-freedom-routes-to-enhance-your-flights-to-europe/

[irregularwebcomic]

[Irregular Webcomic! #1946 Rerun](https://ift.tt/2HOWMwT)

Glasgow isn't quite in the actual Scottish Highlands, but it's close enough for some giant snakes.

Go find a map of Scotland. Wait a minute, what am I saying? This is the Internet! Here's one. :-) This map is copyright-free, since it is produced by the C.I.A., and is available in full from the astonishingly brilliant Perry-Castañeda Library Map Collection at the University of Texas.

Okay, had a good look? Scotland is at the north end of the United Kingdom. The Scottish Highlands cover the entire rugged looking region north of Glasgow. Note the intriguing feature of the geography, in that Inverness and Fort William are connected by an obvious straight line cutting across the peninsula. Along this line lies Loch Ness, the second largest but probably the most famous lake in Scotland. Loch Ness itself is highly elongated in shape, running directly along the line previously mentioned. This line is actually a long series of valleys, known as the Great Glen, cutting right across Scotland from one coast to the other, and bisecting the craggy highlands that rise on either side. All in all, it's a rather striking geological feature.

The Great Glen in fact, as some of you have no doubt realised by now, marks the location of a major fault in the Earth's crust. The land north-west of the fault has slipped northwards relative to the land south-east of the fault. And it doesn't stop in Scotland. The fault runs right through Ireland as well, straight through the bay near Londonderry that you can see on this map, and out the western side of that island.

Okay, now let's go even further afield. Take a look at this map of north-western Europe. (Click it for a larger version.)

There are mountains in Scotland. Where else do we see mountains? There's a whole big chain of them running up the back of Norway. In fact, with a tiny bit of imagination, you can picture the chain of mountains running along Scandinavia as continuing across the North Sea into Scotland. It makes a nice arc.

In fact, the mountains of Scotland and Scandinavia are part of the same mountain range. This immense range of mountains was produced during an event known as the Caledonian orogeny. Caledonia is the ancient Roman name for Scotland, and orogeny is a technical term combining the Greek oros, meaning mountain, and genus, meaning generation.

The generation of the mountains of Caledonia and Scandinavia occurred roughly 400 million years ago, at which time the continents of the Earth were in very different locations to where they are now. They were so different, that we can't even sensibly refer to them with our familiar names. At that time, there was an ocean known as the Iapetus Ocean. Don't go looking for it on a modern map, because it doesn't exist any more. On one side of the Iapetus Ocean was the continent of Laurentia. On the other side were two landmasses known as Baltica and Avalonia.

The movements of plate tectonics slowly but inevitably caused the shrinkage of the Iapetus Ocean, with Laurentia moving closer to Baltica and Avalonia, until the fateful period of history when these continents collided. In exactly the same way as the collision of India with Asia has more recently produced the crumpling of the Earth's crust that we know as the Himalaya Mountains, this titanic altercation gave rise to a great range of mountains.

The now combined landmasses of Laurentia, Baltica, and Avalonia eventually formed part of the single supercontinent of Pangaea, which existed around 250 million years ago. So this collision and mountain building was by no means a sudden thing; it took many millions of years to occur.

Pangaea eventually broke apart again into pieces, to form the continents with which we are familiar today. Baltica and Avalonia were essentially the forerunners of what is now Europe. The mountains of the Caledonian orogeny can be seen today, weathered and eroded into less spectacular peaks than the Himalayan heights which they may well have reached shortly after their birth, running down the spine of Scandinavia, across Scotland, and...

What became of Laurentia?

Take a look at this map. (The big version - click on this small one.)

Norway, Scotland... look west...

Look for mountains.

The Appalachian Mountains. That enormous range of mountains running diagonally across the eastern USA. You can mentally extend them north-east, up the peninsula of Maine and New Brunswick, across the Gulf of St Lawrence, across Newfoundland, and then... you are forced to a stop by the Atlantic Ocean.

Only imagine the ocean isn't there. Slide Newfoundland across to nestle next to Ireland. Then the Appalachian Mountains can continue right through the Scottish Highlands and on into Norway. We were looking for Laurentia. We've found it. Laurentia is North America.

The Appalachians are the same mountain range as the Scottish Highlands and the mountains of Scandinavia.

How do we know this? Because we can see the evidence in the rocks. If you examine the rocks and fossils of the Appalachians, you can see that these mountains were also generated around 400 million years ago, in an event known as the Acadian orogeny. So at this time, the Iapetus Ocean closed up, Laurentia, Baltica, and Avalonia collided, and produced an enormous range of mountains. Later, the movements of the plates of Earth's crust separated Laurentia from Baltica and Avalonia again, sundering the mountain chain in the middle, and producing the new (and still expanding) Atlantic Ocean between them. But let's have a closer look at the area where these great landmasses were ripped apart.

On the American side we have the island of Newfoundland. Here's what it looks like from space. Remind you of anything?

Have another look at Scotland (at the top of this annotation). Remember that Great Glen fault line running right across the country, from north-east to south-west? There's also a major dislocation running across Newfoundland, from north-east to south-west. It's so big, it almost separates the island into two pieces. Only a tiny isthmus remains to connect the bulk of the island to the irregular blobby peninsula dangling off the south-east corner. Note also that many of the obvious geographical features run north-east to south-west, just like the Appalachian Mountains, and the arc of Scotland to Scandinavia.

Now here's the really interesting bit. If you go to Newfoundland and have a look at the rocks and the fossils contained in them, you find that they confirm the idea that the island is really an extension of the Appalachian Mountains. The rocks and the ages of the fossils all match. Except for that almost-detached peninsula on the south-east of the island. There, the rocks are strangely very different. What's more, the fossils in the rocks are completely different to the fossils found on the rest of the island.

The fossils of the time when these rocks and mountains were laid down include a lot of graptolites and trilobites. These are great fossils for palaeontologists to find in rock beds, because they were very prolific across the world at the time, and because they varied with geographical distribution. The graptolites and trilobites found in one part of the world were noticeably different from those found in another part of the world. In particular, the fossils found on the Baltica/Avalonia side of the closing Iapetus ocean were very different from those on the Laurentia side. In other words, the graptolites found now in the Scottish Highlands are different to the ones found in the Appalachians, and to the ones found in Newfoundland.

Except for that dangling peninsula. The graptolites there are an exact match to the ones found in present-day Scotland. What's more, the rocks of the peninsula themselves are of a type not found elsewhere on Newfoundland, or in the Appalachians, but are precisely the same as the rocks found in Scotland.

Well, not all of Scotland. The rocks and fossils found in the highlands west of the Great Glen are very peculiar. They don't look like anything seen anywhere else in Scotland. What they look like, in fact, is rocks and fossils from the western side of Newfoundland.

When Laurentia collided with Baltica and Avalonia, the Laurentian side ended up with a characteristic set of rocks and fossils, and the Baltica/Avalonia side gained a different set of rocks and fossils. Hundreds of millions of years later, when the Atlantic Ocean ripped the melded continents apart once more, it didn't use the same boundary to separate them. Laurentia left behind a part of itself. The north-western part of Scotland used to be part of what is now North America. And the south-eastern tip of Newfoundland used to be part of what is now Europe.

Anyone who knows Canadian geography reasonably well will know that that part of Newfoundland is called the Avalon Peninsula. It was the evidence from this part of Newfoundland that allowed geologists to piece together the history of the North Atlantic and the continents on either side, and this is why they decided to call the proto-continent that would later become the bulk of Europe: Avalonia.

2019-03-23 Rerun commentary: I must admit my own knowledge of Canadian geography before writing this annotation wasn't quite up to scratch. I could tell you roughly where Newfoundland was, but didn't really know much beyond that and a basic knowledge of the other provinces and a handful of major cities. Usually, unless you're visiting, there's not really much need to know geography of foreign places. It's nice to know, but not knowing isn't really going to bother most people. Geographical knowledge is highly concentrated in the areas where you live and work. You know names of streets, and intersections, and where certain businesses are located, and even finer details like where you can find mailboxes and bus stops and a bench to sit on. And expanding your circle, you probably know the names of all the cities and towns within a few hours drive, and you have a general idea of places in your own country further afield. But think about a country on the other side of the world and you may be lucky to be able to name the capital city, let alone any of the political subdivisions or second-tier cities and towns, or identify any of them on a map. In the future, people living on Mars are going to know all the craters and valleys and stuff around them, but won't be able to locate North America on a map of Earth.

[charllieeldridge]

Backpacking Mexico: 10 Reasons To Visit This Year

Mexico has somehow gained a reputation for only catering to all-inclusive resort goers, or for being too dangerous for independent travel. Neither of which is true. Backpacking Mexico is a trip you’ll never forget.

Sure, Cabo San Lucas, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan are popular with people on a one week holiday, and yes, there are some very dangerous areas in the country.

But once you’re on the ground and are actually backpacking Mexico, you’ll see that this country has a lot to offer adventurers, history lovers, culture-seekers, food enthusiasts and independent travellers!

Nick and I have spent more than 8 months travelling around Mexico and have never once had an issue with crime, or felt unsafe (except for a little bit in Manzanillo).

Backpacking is definitely the best way to see the country — there are so many amazing places to visit in Mexico! This is one of the world’s best travel destinations.

Here are my top 10 reasons why you should go backpacking in Mexico.

1. Affordable Costs in Mexico

*As of April 2020, the rate is: $1 USD = 24 MXN

One of the things that backpackers think about most when choosing a country to visit is the cost of travel.

Mexico may not be as cheap of a destination as Asia or some parts of Central America, but it is definitely affordable.

Whether you’re on a strict budget, or if you consider yourself more of a midrange backpacker, this country has you covered.

If you don’t mind travelling in the off-season, you’ll find even better value for money outside of the peak November to March season.

For budget backpackers, you can get by on very little here. Although, you’ll have to forego some comforts. Camping on the beaches (especially on the Pacific Coast) is possible, plus, it’s fun and free.

Dorm beds cost around 150 pesos per person, while double private rooms go for 450 – 600 pesos.

Typical Mexican snack food is very cheap – tacos, quesadillas, sopes, tortas, tostadas, etc. can all be had in small restaurants or on the street for 7 – 20 pesos each. A sit-down meal plate of food will set you back 50 – 150 pesos.

When backpacking Mexico, you won’t be complaining about the cost of food whatsoever — or the taste.

Tacos – cheap, and delicious

Transportation is what eats the budget in Mexico.

Because of the hefty tolls on many of the highways, buses charge around $7 – $10 / hour. If you book the same day, or go for second class (when available) the cost can be much less.

Hitch-hiking is another way to get around, and it’s free. There are also a few low-cost domestic airlines, which frequently have discounts.

A daily budget for a couple in Mexico would vary from around $20 USD/day (camping, hitch-hiking, cooking for yourself, eating street food) to $70 USD/day or more.

At $70/day, you’ll be able to enjoy sit-down meals in restaurants, comfortable buses, private double rooms and the occasional activity.

Of course, the slower you travel, the lower your costs in Mexico will be.

2. Value For Money

When backpacking, you sometimes come across a country that is cheap to travel in, and your purchases are really affordable…but what that tends to mean is that things are lacking in quality.

You’re not spending much, but you’re not getting much either.

Other times, you end up spending a fortune on accommodation, food and activities (Africa!) and the value for money just isn’t there.

One of the great things about Mexico is that you get more bang for your buck than in most other parts around the world.

Rooms may be around $40 a night for a double room (vs. $20 in Thailand), but you get a private bathroom with hot water shower, the room is clean, the beds and pillows are comfortable, there’s air-conditioning, breakfast is included, there’s furniture in the room, etc.

Whereas in Thailand, you’ll probably have a shared bathroom, small room, no breakfast, springy bed and just a fan.

This private double room in Mexico City had bfast, dinner, wi-fi, private bathroom and hot water and was $36/night

Buses can cost quite a bit when backpacking in Mexico, even by North American standards, but the 1st class seats are large and comfortable and they recline with a nice leg rest.

There’s a/c on the buses, a light lunch is provided, they travel directly without any stops, there’s a bathroom on board and (here’s the best part) there’s wi-fi on the bus.

The buses in Mexico are of great value for money.

The food is excellent in Mexico and whether you’re having a cheap street meal, or a nice plate of food at a restaurant, you’ll be happy with the portion sizes and flavour.

Meals are large and good quality ingredients are used in the preparation, you won’t likely find any random bits of meat in your taco.

All of the food is excellent quality, sanitation standards are high (except for maybe a few taco stands) and the bang for your buck is incredible.

Read More:

Culinary Mayhem: A Market Tour in Mexico City

Exploring the Culinary Side of Guanajuato – An Awesome Street Food Tour

Mexican Food: 16 Must-Try Meals in The Yucatan

Tasting The Town With Vallarta Food Tours

3. The Amazing Hostels in Mexico

If you’re backpacking Mexico and aren’t camping, then you’ll most likely be staying in a hostel. Luckily, Mexico has some of the best hostels… ever.

After 6 months of backpacking Mexico, we can honestly say that as a whole, the hostels were fantastic.

The rooms in Mexico are clean and come with basic amenities that you sometimes don’t expect from hostels in other countries, such as soap in the bathroom, hot water showers, bath towels and daily cleaning of your room.

Typically, breakfast will be included in the room price, and in the case of the hostel we stayed at in Mexico City, dinner was included. Wi-fi is always available in the hostel and oftentimes there will be a pool and a communal kitchen.

You’ll usually find an area for chilling out in a hammock or sunbed. Many of the hostels also have special events each night, such as live music, salsa lessons and cooking classes.

Oh ya, this hostel in Merida was awesome

Here’s a list of some of the Top Rated Hostels around Mexico

Best Hostels in Cancun:

Compare prices of all hostels in Cancun Booking.com

Compare prices on guesthouses, hotels, resorts and more in Cancun on Booking.com

Best Hostels in Mexico City:

Compare prices of all hostels in Mexico City on Booking.com

Compare prices of guesthouses, hotels, resorts and more in Mexico City on Booking.com

Best Hostels in San Cristobal de las Casas:

Compare prices of all hostels in San Cristobal de las Casas on Booking.com. 

Compare prices of hostels, guesthouses, hotels, resorts & more in San Cristobal on Booking.com

Best Hostels in Guadalajara:

Compare prices of all hostels in Guadalajara on Booking.com 

Compare prices of all hostels, hotels, resorts & more in Guadalajara on Booking.com

Best Hostels in Guanajuato:

Compare prices of all hostels in Guanajuato on Booking.com 

Compare prices of all hostels, hotels, boutiques, resorts & more on Booking.com

Best Hostel in Merida:

☞ Nomadas Hostel – 8.8/10 rating. This was our favourite hostel in Mexico because they offered so many FREE activities. Check out the latest price of Nomadas Hostel on Booking.com 

Compare prices of all hostels in Merida on Booking.com 

Compare prices of hostels, hotels, boutiques, resorts & more in Merida on Booking.com

Best Hostels in Playa del Carmen:

Compare prices on all hostels in Playa del Carmen on Booking.com 

Compare prices on all hostels, hotels, boutiques, resorts & more in Playa del Carmen on Booking.com

Best Hostels in Puerto Escondido:

Losdeli Hostel in Puerto Escondido – Away from the busy beach area in a quiet, beautiful location. Close to the best swimming beaches, swimming pool, basic breakfast, communal kitchen, hammocks, friendly staff and good wi-fi.

Not interested in hostels? Here are some awesome mid-range hotels:

Hotel Catedral in Puerto Vallarta – Very affordable, clean, beautiful boutique building, awesome location, wi-fi and friendly staff. See our article here.

Hotel Las Palmas on Isla Mujeres – A range of rooms and costs, huge rooftop terrace, communal kitchen, small pool, hammocks, friendly owners, wi-fi and library. See our review here.

The lovely Las Palmas Hotel on Isla Mujeres

4. The Welcoming People

Mexicans are truly some of the most friendly people we’ve come across during our travels.

Tourists have taken over their beaches and towns and they still treat us like welcomed guests in their country.

Sure, tourism provides jobs, but Mexico has seen some mass tourism and for the most part, the local people aren’t jaded by the gringo invasion.

They’re always willing to help out with directions, they will try to speak with you on the bus. They’re patient when listening to your attempts at speaking Spanish and are kind.

When backpacking Mexico, expect to have some genuine experiences with the local people.

The sweetest Mayan woman at the market

5. The Idyllic Beaches

There’s a reason why this is such a popular resort country, the beaches in Mexico are incredible.

Soft, white powdery sands and turquoise waters can be found on the Caribbean side, while on the Pacific side, there’s a wide range of deep blue waters and emerald coves with golden coloured sand.

The Gulf Coast has some great beaches as well, although they’re not as popular as the Pacific and the Caribbean. The beaches are idyllic and the perfect place for surfing, sailing, swimming, snorkelling…and sipping beers.

Isla Holbox, Isla Mujeres, Puerto Escondido, San Pancho, Puerto Vallarta and Mazunte are some good beach spots when backpacking Mexico.

6. The Delicious Food

Food is such a huge part of travel. It unites people, cultures and customs.

Being invited to someone’s home for a meal is such an honour and learning how various ingredients have evolved over the years to create a country’s cuisine is quite fascinating.

Mexico has one of the most famous cuisines in the world. In fact, Mexican food was recently added to the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list by UNESCO.

Many people think that Mexican food is basically just tacos, nachos and burritos.

When in reality, the cuisine in this country is very diverse and full of flavour (note: burritos aren’t Mexican at all, they were invented in the USA).

Each region has its own dishes, and even some cities have their specialities. The state of Oaxaca is known for its incredible mole sauces, chocolate and cheeses.

When in Jalisco State, make sure to try the birria, which is a stewed spicy goat/beef meat with onion and lime.

Mole is a must try in Mexico

In Guadalajara, make sure to try the torta ahogada (Drowned Sandwich), which is a pork sandwich partially submerged in a spicy tomatoes sauce with onions. This is said to be the hangover cure! 

Along any of the coastlines, opt for fresh seafood meals. Shrimp can be bought for a mere 150 pesos/kg from the local fishermen. In the Yucatan, there are numerous food options. You’ll have no problem eating your way through this country.

Definitely go on a food tour if you can while backpacking Mexico. You’ll learn so much about the history of the cuisine, how to make various dishes, and of course, eat a lot of great food.

Food Tour in Puerto Vallarta

Food Tour in Guanajuato

Food Tour in Mexico City

7. The Excellent Activities

You’ll never be bored while backpacking through Mexico. No matter what you’re interested in, you’ll find it here.

The Pacific coast is an excellent spot for surfing and boogie boarding. You can rent a board for the day, or bring your own. During the winter months, you can go on whale and dolphin watching tours on the Pacific side.

However, if you want to save some cash, just keep an eye out and you’ll likely spot some whales from land.

Around Punta de Mita and San Pancho, it’s definitely possible to do some land-based whale watching. You can also witness baby turtles being released into the wild on many beaches around the country.

On the Caribbean side, sailing, snorkelling and just chilling out on the beach are the perfect past-times. Sailing might cost you a bit, but snorkel gear is cheap.

There are numerous cenotes in the Yucatan that you can explore, either independently for free (or a very small fee), or you can go on a tour.

Renting a bicycle in places like Tulum and Valladolid to explore the freshwater caverns yourself is a lot of fun. In fact, renting a bike anywhere is a great idea, and it won’t break your backpacking budget.

In the mountains, village treks are available, as are independent walks and volcano hiking.

Waterfalls, bird watching, river safaris, zip-lining, cave exploration are all on offer in Mexico.

8. The History and Ancient Ruins

Even if you’re not usually interested in museums and ancient sites, while you’re backpacking around Mexico, you’ll be blown away by the ancient ruins.

Chichen Itza, a Wonder Of The World, is just one of the many incredible Mayan sites you can see.

Visit the ruins set in the thick jungle of Palenque or the unique archaeological site at Uxmal. Climb the crumbling steps up to Coba, and wander through the impressive ancient city of Teotihuacan — an hour or so outside of Mexico City.

The relics of Tulum are set on a cliffside with incredible views over the Caribbean Sea. The swimming there is great as well so bring your bathing suit. Other nominations are Ek Balam and Dzibilchaltun.

No matter how many ancient sites you see, each one is unique and interesting in its own way. 

9. The Festivals

It’s no secret that Mexicans love fiestas! Any excuse to get together with a group of friends and family, devour tasty food, turn up the tunes and light fireworks is welcome here.

There’s practically a festival in Mexico every week, so no matter which time of the year you decide to backpack Mexico, there will likely be a festival you can see, or partake in. 

New Year’s Eve is a huge party, and you can expect a lot of fireworks — whether you’re on the beach or in the city! In July, you won’t want to miss the Guelaguetza Festival in Oaxaca which is filled with traditional culture, dance and dress.

But of course, the most popular festival in Mexico is Day of The Dead (Día de Muertos). Celebrated all across Mexico from October 31st – November 2nd, this colourful festival welcomes the dead back home. Mexico City and Oaxaca City are two great places to experience the festival.  

10. World-Class Scuba Diving

Mexico’s coastline spans more than 9,000 km, and is home to several islands — it’s no surprise that the scuba diving here is awesome! 

On the west coast, you’ll find the Sea of Cortez and the stunning Socorro Islands. This is where all of the liveaboards in Mexico are found. Swim with giant manta rays, or experience cage diving with great whites…if you dare. 

On the east coast, you’ll find the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean. Here, you’ll find the popular diving destinations or Isla Mujeres and Cozumel. Some of the best diving in Mexico can be found here, including the amazing Banco Chincorro.

On top of the incredible ocean diving, Mexico offers a unique way to get under the surface. Try your hand at scuba diving in a cenote! This freshwater cave dive is not to be missed. 

Scuba diving in Mexico may not be for those on a strict budget backpacking budget, but if you have the cash, it’s worth the splurge. It’ll cost you around $75 for 2 dives. 

The more dives you do, the less it will cost. Diving in Mexico is more expensive here than in other parts of Central America and Asia, but the visibility, marine life, equipment and boats are top-notch.

Pack Your Backpack for Mexico!

Mexico offers the independent traveller nothing but adventure, excitement, and unique experiences.

But, if you’re not interested in being all that adventurous, there’s ample opportunity for beach-bumming and sipping Coronas in a hammock. Everything about this country speaks to backpackers, so pack your bags and book your flight, Mexico is waiting for you.

☞ SEE MORE MEXICO ARTICLES:

Things To Do in Puerto Vallarta – 20 Cool Things You Won’t Want to Miss!

Things To Do in Playa del Carmen – A List of The Top 21

Things To Do in La Paz, Mexico – A List of The Top 21

Things To Do in Cabo San Lucas – A List of The Top 21

Things To Do in Guanajuato – A List of The Top 10

Things To Do in San Pancho – A List of The Top 15

Manzanillo Colima – The Ultimate Travel Guide

Like This Article? Pin it!

  The post Backpacking Mexico: 10 Reasons To Visit This Year appeared first on Goats On The Road.

Backpacking Mexico: 10 Reasons To Visit This Year published first on https://travelaspire.weebly.com/

[jacewilliams1]

Night flight in an A4B Skyhawk

I suited up, gave the A4B a pre-flight check, fired up the turbine, received Air Traffic Control clearance for my first leg, and departed Los Alamitos in a dense brown smog blanketing LA. I broke through the haze at 5,000 feet and was vectored to a northwesterly course, skirting the California coast. The approach to Alameda Naval Air Station runway 13 was from the northwest, over Treasure Island in San Francisco Bay, clear of the crowded airspace around the Oakland and San Francisco airports to the south.

While the ground crew refueled the Skyhawk I grabbed a cup of coffee and a sandwich and checked Aerology for weather. Most of the US was clear (CAVU: ceiling and visibility unlimited). A powerful jet stream arcing gradually northeastward from San Francisco, on the 38th parallel, to Boston, on the 42nd parallel, would propel me across the continent with only one refueling stop. I planned a 1500-mile leg to the Naval Air Station at Olathe, Kansas (NUU), followed by a 1300-mile leg to my destination at NAS South Weymouth (NZW).

Not a bad airplane for crossing the country in one stop.

Climbing to altitude, the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada Range ahead of me stood out, reddened by the sun on its way into the Pacific. Just over the mountains, white cumulus buildups darkened the terrain to the east. I leveled off at Flight Level 370, throttled back to 80% thrust for optimum fuel economy, and activated the autopilot. Thirty seven thousand feet is roughly the demarcation between the troposphere below and the stratosphere above. At these altitudes turbojet efficiency is aided by cold air temperatures, and the thin air creates less drag on the airframe.

On autopilot I was able to devote my attention to the landscape and my maps. By comparing position with the airspeed indicator I calculated that the jet stream was giving me a one hundred knots boost. As I crossed the Wassuk Range bracketing California and Nevada I tried to identify the twin peaks: Montgomery on the California side, and Boundary Peak in Nevada, but cruising 25,000 feet over these prominences I couldn’t distinguish one from another. Utah’s Sevier Desert appeared as only a flat spot between the Wassuks and the Colorado Rockies. The great peaks of the Colorado Rockies – Mt. Elbert, Mt. Lincoln, Gray’s – were indistinguishable from my vantage point four miles above them. To a traveler weaving through the Continental Divide they were majestic, but I occupied a different universe.

The foothills of the Rockies tapered down into the Great Plains of Kansas, now inky dark. A hundred and fifty miles from Olathe, my refueling stop, I was cleared to descend at my discretion, and throttled back into a long, coasting glide. Even without navigational TACAN, the glow over Topeka and Kansas City would have guided me to the field. When the tower didn’t turn on the runway lights until I was on final approach I thought somebody must have been asleep at the switch. After landing I got the answer. I was the only jet aircraft at the field. Olathe was a multi-engine base, where pilots had plenty of time to line up with the runway centerline on final; so being a little late with the runway lights didn’t make much of a difference as far as the crew manning the tower was concerned.

I filled out my flight log, got peanuts and candy bars from the vending machine, and watched the ground crew service the Skyhawk. When they finished refueling, instead of telling me the bird was ready to fly, the crew chief delivered bad news: the hydraulic fluid was low – too low to risk a flight covering the remaining half of the continent. Worse yet, they didn’t have jet hydraulic fluid at the base. The closest location for hydraulic with the required specifications was the Air Force Base in Kansas City, thirty miles away. After assessing my worried expression for a few moments, the chief smiled, noted it was a quiet night, and offered to dispatch two sailors in a jeep to get hydraulic fluid. Divine providence had intervened; it was destined that I fly through the night. I flaked out on the leather couch in Operations for forty winks.

“Lieutenant, lieutenant,” I heard in my dream, and awoke to a sailor shaking my shoulder.

“You’re ready to go,” he said.

Naval Air Station Olathe, the only stop on this quiet night.

It was 2am. I restoked on coffee, hit the head, strapped into the A4B, and while taxiing got clearance direct to my final destination, NAS South Weymouth, Mass.

I nursed the Skyhawk to its maximum altitude of 41,000 feet, then turned down the dimmers on the red instrument lights so the cockpit was as black as the void outside – an infinity of brilliant stars impossible to comprehend except when free of the troposphere. I was alone in the silent skies. Just to make sure I had actually been awakened from my forty winks and was not in a dream I radioed Air Route Traffic Control: “Chicago Center, this is Navy 4981, radio check, over.”

“Roger, Navy 4981, this is Chicago Center, I read you loud and clear, over.”

“Copy, Chicago Center, Navy 4981 out.”

Except for the lights of Springfield and Ft. Wayne, the land beneath was dark. Lake Erie, to the left as I neared Cleveland, was a dull black. Unlike the sky, alive with stars, the earth was dormant, sleeping. About a hundred miles east of my home field destination a thin ribbon of red defined the horizon ahead, as the sun, well beneath the curvature of the earth, began establishing its power over the planet. I landed at the sleepy naval air station, my odyssey complete, wrapped my treasure (two rolls of 35mm film) in my red bandana, placed it into my ditty bag, revved up my TR-4 and sped into Boston.

  “A shoreless night, the pilot thought, leading to no anchorage (for every port was unattainable, it seemed), nor toward dawn. In an hour and twenty minutes the fuel would run out. Sooner or later he must blindly founder in the sea of darkness. Ah, if only he could have won through to daylight!

“What use to turn his eyes toward the east, home of the sun? Between them lay a gulf of night so deep that he could never clamber up again.”

Night Flight – Antoine de Saint Exupéry

The post Night flight in an A4B Skyhawk appeared first on Air Facts Journal.

from Engineering Blog https://airfactsjournal.com/2019/07/night-flight-in-an-a4b-skyhawk/

[travelguideworldtour-blog]

15 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

It’d be no exaggeration if I predict viet nam a property of beauty, because it is cent percent true. Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country in the South China Sea famous for its pristine shores rivers and Buddhist pagodas. Vietnam is more than that although yes , there are cities and locations which you might not believe lovely. An excursion to this nation is like an adventure of its own. Finding new, beautiful shore each time; giving preference buds an entirely new adventure with best fish; riding to mountains that are lonely; celebrating the silhouettes of cities like Ho Chi Minh from skies bars and enjoying the rich wild life in the islands are a few of the experiences in Vietnam that may remain etched in your memory. Vietnam is for everybody else, make it a beach lover, history enthusiast, leisure sailors, mountain goat or a adrenaline junky; it really is an entire destination that’s now each day.

My Son

An essential archaeological place, located about the central coast of Vietnam close to the Duy Phú Village, My Son is among Southeast Asia’s main ancient destinations. Once being the most location for Hindu ceremonies, My Son is the place you are able to observe a number of marvels of temples. It is supposedly built between 4th and 14th century the Champas, by the then rulers.

  Hoi An

Hoi An is an ancient coastal town and the trading post of south-eastern Asia. The town is just one of the must see places. Architecture and the style of these buildings signify a great amalgamation of west west and the east.

Old Canal, Japanese-designed Bridge, Pagoda, Temples , and French Colonial Houses nevertheless reflect the old world allure. For anyone who love Hoi An can be an perfect choice where you can unwind within their stunning and not as crowded beaches or enjoy the nightlife in one of many cafes by this river.

Hoi An can also be an ideal place to taste real food. If you want to learn the art of food style, you can combine a cooking class.

  Ba Be National Park

Tranquil Ba Be National Park is absolutely magnificent with the three Ba Be Lakes in its heart, rimmed by karst peaks and populated slopes. Most people come here to take calm vessel trips or kayak over the lake and explore the caves full of stalagmites and stalactites in the area, but for the more busy, additionally there is exceptional trekking and trekking in the mountains here involving ethnic minority villages. This is one of the most tranquil areas in viet nam, and the evening, travelers who spend here sleeping in conventional home stay accommodation over the lakeshore, allowing an adventure of rural living that is simple.

The rare mammals, butterflies, turtle, and fishes which could be viewed here attract nature enthusiasts and photographers from throughout the earth.

  Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is Vietnam’s identifier. Located about 130 km east of Hanoi in northern Vietnam, Ha Long Bay is well famous because of the water; bunch of limestone rocky outcrops rising and lush shore. The island is indeed among the prettiest places in viet nam and probably the most visited as well. An individual will find lakes and caves. It is astonishing to see how on the centuries this island has been processed into something. Halong Bay can be actually a picture-postcard destination having its blue sea and water cliffs sprinkled throughout with karst topography. Locally known as ‘where the dragon descends into the sea’, this Halong Bay has multiple breeze and lime stone caves lakes, and grottoes.

  Hue

If I may put it in this way Hue is the capital of Vietnam. Situated in Central Viet Nam on the banks of the Perfume River, Hue formerly functioned as the imperial capital of the Nguyen dynasty. Today, the former period’s vestiges are reflected from the architecture, cuisine and culture of the city, which makes it one of the best places to see in Vietnam. Of the city’s monuments, the Citadel is probably by far the most famous. Once the seat of the Nguyen emperors, the Citadel is a sprawling complex of expansive palaces, ornate temples, gates and walls Another crucial milestone on the lake is that the city’s official emblem, the Thien Mu Pagoda.

  Mekong Delta

Probably, the significant tourist attraction in Mekong Delta is your colourful market that sells a melange of locally grown items. This place offers a treat from simply taking you. Needless to state, you are bound to have a wonderful experience seeing with southwestern viet nam at Mekong Delta. The Mekong River nearby additionally serves as an aid to get this to agricultural region fertile by creating a maze of canals and streamsit is also known as the’Vietnam’s Rice Basket.’ The Delta which extends between the Gulf of Thailand and Ho Chi Minh City Delivers plantations to more than the third of the country.

  Sa Pa

Sa Pa is a movie perfect destination in Vietnam. Surrounded by mountains, rice terraces, Sa Pa is a beautiful town that is frequently used as a base for sipping villages and rice paddies and trekking at the Hoang Lien Son Mountains. Tours round Sa Pa supply the ability to witness amazing waterfalls; interesting traditions adventure yummy food and the lifestyle of the regional tribes. One has to go hiking in the mountains of Sa Pa for views of the mountain and jungle ranges of Vietnam.

  Ho Chi Minh

Speedy internet food , low rates and high standards put Saigon up as a traveling or nomad destination. Around town there’s plenty to keep visitors busy, French age architecture for example Vietnam’s niches, Ben Thanh Market, at District 1, the War Remnants Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral being the major tourist draw.

The most useful of those things to do in Saigon are the trips and tours visitors can take out of the town. The Cu Chi tunnels are both local and provide a true insight to what went on within the American War. This one will be my choice, if you only do one tour in Vietnam.

The fascinating and special Cao Dai temples camera be along with the Cu Chi trip, visit for the noon ceremony. street walking in the core of the backpacker region before heading back to Saigon for lunch alternatively simply take into the water to get a Mekong, villages and markets tour.

  Bao Loc

Located right among Ho Chi Minh city and Dalat, Bao Loc has been an important stop for us after a pretty awful trip on highway 20. Although the town might not look like much and feel like a compulsory remainder for people riding throughout the country, it adopts a couple of paintings like a few of Vietnam’s green tea (you can go to a few of the tea plantations close to the city) and some pretty good food, but the real gem hides from the nearby Dambri Waterfall Resort.

Inside this massive park you’ll come across that the Dambri waterfall. This high stream of water comes crashing at an incredible speed and makes for an unbelievable sight. There could force you to realise Dambri is As the opinion is impressive from below, becoming down. It’s well worth the excess day outside of one’s itinerary if you’re driving through viet nam subsequently spend the night in Bao Loc.

  Hanoi

The funding of Vietnam is the frenetic heartbeat of the nation and a place that befuddles travelers just as much as them appeals. The motorbike frenzy, pollution, and clamor of street vendors can get too much for some travelers, but Hanoi may be your place when you’d like to dive into Vietnamese city lifetime. While history buffs should get a bee line here simply to see the bundle of excellent museums the old town quarter has lots of charm being offered. The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and also Vietnam Fine Art Museum are both introductions to the artistry of the nation, while the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is an important tribute to the founder of Vietnam.

  Nha Trang

For sandy fun in Vietnam, Nha Trang is king. The beach trundles for six kilometers along the shore of Nha Trang city that is central and through summertime is filled with foreign visitors in addition to families on a break. There is excellent swimming here with swimming pool areas for relaxing days taking in the sand and sun along with manicured lounging areas that get this a great option. Should you get bored of sunbathing, the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers are just to the north west round the Xom Bong Bridge and have been used as a place of worship here as at least the 7th century (using some historians saying the site itself has been a place of active worship since much sooner ). There’s also an excellent museum dedicated to the task of Alexandre Yersin who discovered the cause of the bubonic plague and also founded Nha Trang’s Pasteur Institute (which still carries out vaccination programs in Vietnam today).

  Dalat

Located around a lake and a golf course, on the Lang Biang highlands, Dalat is a serene and trendy location for a perfect holiday escape. Dalat has cool nights that are soothing and days. The climate is rightly tagged as’eternal spring.’ This holiday destination boasts with flowerbeds which have put it among the places to see in Vietnam of its magnificent lakes, waterfalls, and lush green valleys.

December — March will be the ideal time to stop by Dalat. The current weather remains comfortable. There’s not any rain. This makes it perfect for outdoor pursuits. The flowers blossom within this spring up, making Dalat all the more vibrant and romantic.

  Ben Tre

Vietnam includes several destinations that are for people that like to take an trail. 1 such gem is Ben Tre. Situated on the bank of River Mekong, Ben Tre is one of the best. The spot has attractions such as coconut candies factory. An ideal afternoon in Ben Tre would be to stop by the factory place sail at dusk to catch fireflies to sample their premium candies and watch sunsets that are amazing. Ben Tre is a place for romance and ideal to go to with your own partner.

  Kon Tum

Situated in the Central Highland, Kon Tum is a Weary city sitting on the Border of Their Dakbla River. The place is without almost any hustle and bustle and so makes for a terrific place to see at Vietnam. Although the town could be the base for visiting other hot places has some attractions including the architecture of a unique. The spot is ideal to catch two or a beverage at the day once the most of the town involves break.

    Con Dao

Con Dao Archipelago is an unspoilt destination in Vietnam. It reflects a history under French as Con Dao was once home to probably the prison in Vietnam Even though tired in character. Con Dao has opened its door for tourism. The biggest island of this Con Dao archipelago is Con Son, which is a laidback getaway with gorgeous beaches some magnificent Hawaiian buildings and challenging treks and park. Some of the best approaches is by watching sea turtles laying eggs hiking in the park, diving and dangling out from the beaches.

  Quy Nhon

Quy Nhon is a beach lovers’ heaven. Operating out of Central Vietnam,” Quy Nhon is among the places which you would like to wake up every morning ; sand shore and tidy roads make this destination a favourite of tourists everywhere across the universe. It can also be an perfect honeymoon destination in Vietnam without a uncertainty. Expect large amount of pure beauty fresh seafood along with also guest houses to crash into.

  Ninh Binh Province

Blessed with natural beauty, fundamental Vietnam based Ninh Binh state offers sights of splendour and wildlife at book and the park. Located south of Hanoi, Ninh Binh province is just one of those spots frequently visited types and also by travellers. The high lights of this post include the landscape of Tam Coc that can be seen by taking a traditional boat ride and also seeing of Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO Site. Additionally being heavily commercialised, you’ll witness many hotels and restaurants here. You may go to Samson Beach for a day Cuc Phuong, and the wild life book since Ninh Binh state is located near Thanh Hoa Province.

  Bai Tu Long Bay

Located in the north east Vietnam, Bai Tu Long Bay is actually really a surreal island which continues to the border. Even the Bai Tu Long National Park shares the boundary the famed Ha Long Bay. The island can be as amazing as its beachfront destination of course, if we may a wee bit more magnificent. It is an ideal destination for anyone who’d love spend appreciating the type all by them and to escape the busy Ha Long Bay. An individual can elect into the Bai Tu area for ship trips and pleasure in the slow life with this island.

  Mui Ne

Probably one of the most bustling beach destinations was a sleepy backwater destination that stayed discounted by most tourists. The destination is one of the very crowded weekend attractions in viet nam today. Mui Ne can be found at a short distance in Ho Chi Minh City and hence can be called a taste for visitors which are eager to pay for a large sum to stay in luxurious resorts. Mui Ne delivers a casual atmosphere and has good stretches of sand. It’s a place to unwind and get that tan.

    15 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

[mystlnewsonline]

New Post has been published on https://www.stl.news/least-10-deaths-snow-ice-record-cold-south/69247/

At least 10 deaths from snow, ice and record cold in South

ATLANTA/January 17, 2018 (AP)(STL.News) — Snow, ice and a record-breaking blast of cold closed runways, highways, schools and government offices across the South and sent cars sliding off roads Wednesday in a corner of the country ill-equipped to deal with wintry weather. At least 10 people died, including a baby in a car that plunged off a slippery overpass into a Louisiana canal.

Icicles hung from a statue of jazz musicians in normally balmy New Orleans, and drivers unaccustomed to ice spun their wheels across Atlanta, which was brought to a near-standstill by little more than an inch (2.5 centimeters) of snow. The beach in Biloxi, Mississippi, got a light coating. And the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill canceled classes as the storm unloaded at least 8 inches (20 centimeters) of snow in Durham and Greensboro.

Even the best drivers had trouble: Retired NASCAR champion Dale Earnhardt Jr. tweeted that he had just used his winch to help pull a car out of a ditch when he drove off the road and into a tree in North Carolina.

“NC stay off the roads today/tonight. 5 minutes after helping these folks I center punched a pine tree,” he reported. A spokesman said Earnhardt was not hurt and his pickup had only minor damage.

Though skies were sunny and bright in many places, temperatures remained below freezing throughout the day in much of the South.

Thousands of schoolchildren and teachers got the day off. Many cities canceled meetings and court proceedings, and some businesses closed. Slippery runways and the need to de-ice planes forced cancellations and delays in New Orleans; Memphis, Tennessee; and Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina. Electricity usage surged as people struggled to keep warm.

In Alabama, where some places got at least 3 inches (7 centimeters) of snow, dairy farmer Will Gilmer bundled up for the drive to his milking barn before daybreak in rural Lamar County, the thermometer reading 7 degrees (minus 14 Celsius).

“I probably had four layers on and then insulated coveralls and a heavy coat on over that. I made it OK except for my toes,” he said.

The mercury dropped to record lows overnight in several places in Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana and Mississippi. It was 21 degrees (minus 6 Celsius) before dawn in New Orleans, breaking the city’s record of 23 (minus 5 Celsius), set on the same date in 1977.

At least four people died in Louisiana, including a man knocked off an elevated portion of Interstate 10 in New Orleans when a pickup spun out on ice, and an 8-month-old baby in a car that slid into a canal in suburban New Orleans. The baby’s mother was in critical condition.

Two others died along an icy stretch of I-75 southeast of Atlanta when a driver lost control and hit them, one of them inside a stopped car and the other standing beside it, authorities said.

One person died in a weather-related traffic accident in West Virginia. In the freezing Houston area, a homeless man was found dead behind a trash bin, apparently of exposure, while an 82-year-old woman with dementia succumbed to the cold after walking away from her home. Also, a woman was discovered dead in a snowy park near City Hall in Memphis. The temperature was around 10 degrees (minus 12 Celsius) when she was found.

Snow fell in a wide band that stretched from southeastern Texas all the way to western Massachusetts. And along the Gulf Coast, ice pellets covered the tops of sago palm trees, and stretches of I-10 were closed in Louisiana and across Alabama’s Mobile Bay.

Downtown Atlanta — the corporate capital of the South, notorious for its heavy traffic — was eerily quiet.

Susan Luciano, walking in snow-blanketed Peachtree City just south of Atlanta, was delighted: “It is the most romantic setting. It is beautiful. This is God’s masterpiece … a living postcard.”

Still, dozens of accidents were reported across the Atlanta metro area, one involving a salt truck.

Southern states and cities don’t have the large fleets of snowplows, salting trucks and other snow-removal equipment common in the North.

“Y’all aren’t going to make it!” a driver in a pickup truck yelled at two drivers in compact cars that were spinning their wheels on an icy boulevard near SunTrust Park, where the Atlanta Braves play. “You’re going to slide back down the hill! Turn around!”

Adrian Benton, a 26-year-old native of snowy Buffalo, New York, tried to help.

“The up-north way of dealing with snow needs to come down here,” Burton said of snowplows and salting up North.

Yet one weather expert who grew up in brutal Michigan winters and now lives in Atlanta said Southern winters have the North beat.

Ryan Maue, a meteorologist with the private forecaster Weather.US, said Atlanta’s mostly untreated roads were fraught with icy peril during his car outing Wednesday to the supermarket.

“My little car was struggling even to move,” he said, adding he worried just as much about Southern motorists risking their necks — and those of others  in their “non-winterized cars.”  But he told The Associated Press that Southern comfort is on the way, with the mercury to start rising above freezing by midday Thursday in the region and even into the low 60s (15 Celsius) in spots by the weekend.

Said Maue: “We should feel a widespread warming throughout the South. It will feel wonderful.”

___

Reeves reported from Birmingham, Alabama. Associated Press writers Jeff Martin in Atlanta; Jonathan Drew in Durham, North Carolina; David Warren in Dallas; Rebecca Reynolds Yonker in Louisville, Kentucky; Adrian Sainz in Memphis, Tennessee; and Heather Hollingsworth in Kansas City, Missouri, contributed to this report.

___

By KATE BRUMBACK and JAY REEVES, by Associated Press – published on STL.News by St. Louis Media, LLC (Z.S)

___

[2traveldads-blog]

Every year you read about some tourist that didn’t think about if trying to ride a bison or something was smart. You hear about people not paying attention or following rules and then the wildlife having to be caught and put down. Don’t be one of those people.  We want you to have an unforgettable time viewing wildlife in America’s National Parks, but that doesn’t mean interaction. Just be smart about it all and pay attention to our tips to have an unforgettable time. Consider wildlife safety a part of camping safety.

Wildlife safety chat 

Following the safety chat (remember “safety first”) go check out the spots we’ve highlighted as our favorite places for the best Yellowstone National Park wildlife experiences, or ideas in Glacier and Yosemite. Before that though, listen up: having plenty of adventures in the National Parks beyond Yellowstone, these are our top three things to keep you and the wildlife safe.

Food handling and storage in National Parks

Whether you’re all about camping or you totally dig staying in National Park lodges, you’ll no doubt have an experience eating or preparing a meal in the open air. And when you travel through certain National Parks there will actually be opportunities to be very close to wildlife while still in your vehicle. Everything we’re sharing any Park Ranger will totally corroborate and strictly enforce.

Don’t feed the bears in Yosemite (or anywhere)

Really.  If you research, you’ll find funny pictures from the 50’s of tourists feeding bears by hand out of their car window.  It’s ridiculous.  This practice eventually led to the relocation and termination of many black bears from Yosemite and Yellowstone National Park, as their behaviors and health were severely impacted…and they were cranky.  Today, there are very strict guidelines regarding food storage and clean up.

Why we have to call this out: if you’re planning on camping and picnicking in a National Park, you must unpack and repack EVERYTHING except your sleeping equipment whenever you leave.  Even with an efficient group of campers, this is a frustrating hassle, and if you don’t do it right, you’ll have an unplanned experience with National Park wildlife.

Being animal-safe with food in National Parks

This is how you take care of yourself and the National Park wildlife when it’s meal/snack time:

1.) wake up

2.) get out food, cooking equipment and utensils

3.) cook and eat

4.) clean up AND transport grey water to a dump station somewhere

5.) put EVERYTHING back in the car

6.) wipe down table and inspect for food residue

7.) go about your day.  REPEAT AT ALL MEALS.

We absolutely love camping and are willing to go through this process over and over, but it really is a continual plague on the camping experience.  We feel that everybody should fully understand this before committing to camping in Yellowstone (or Glacier, Yosemite, Mt Rainier… any National Park).

Tip:  having storage bins with lids is an efficient way to store meal prep stuff and dirty dishes (separate tubs).  Doing this will make prep and clean up much faster and easier, having the last meal of the day be the one that includes the dish washing.

Picnicking around bison in Yellowstone

The American bison is the most iconic animal in the USA.  Today, due to mass hunting in the 1800s, they are scarce and mostly found in Yellowstone National Park, Custer State Park (SD) and on farms.   The safe haven of Yellowstone has really allowed the bison to flourish and they are everywhere.  True, there are a few key areas that you’ll see them in abundance, but you have to watch wherever you stop, and that’s why we’re talking bison safety.

Fun anecdote:  My favorite morning on our most recent trip to Yellowstone National Park was spent with the family doing picnic breakfast on the Yellowstone River, at the Nez Perce Ford.  Sitting across the shallow river from us was a bull bison, watching us, enjoying his own breakfast.  Having just watched several big guys ford the river not too far from there, we kept a wary eye on him.  We stayed safe, but were ready to run at a moment’s notice. Oh, and we had to keep an eye on the pelicans hanging out nearby too.

Tip:  ask a ranger or use a park guide to find/select a picnic area that’s right for your family.  If you don’t know where there is one, you might be driving for a long time.

Tip 2:  we always have our portable Weber Q Propane BBQ and Coleman camp stove with us and use it both in camp as well as on the road at picnic sites.  It makes lunch more fun and totally elevates the camping experience. [affiliate]

Squirrels and raccoons: beware of tiny, furry poachers

Oh ground squirrels.  So cute and so greedy.  Chipmunks too.  And let’s add bold to their description.  Know that if you’re sitting on a bench or by your campfire, your snacks aren’t safe.  The smaller wildlife of the parks are always watching, waiting to get a free meal.  Human food isn’t meant for the little guys. They need to do their job in the forest ecosystem, so feeding them or allowing them to find your scraps offsets the delicate balance that is nature.

Tip:  even looking away from food for too long will provide an opportunity for a ground squirrel to run up and grab your sandwich while you’re sitting right there.  They are bold.

Anecdote:  picture a box of graham crackers and a shifty little raccoon running up, grabbing it and running off sideways, looking at us as he ran…  #TrueStory. Even when you’re just sitting around the picnic area or campfire, watch out for National Park wildlife being bold. They have years of practice with campers and hikers and know how and when to act.

And remember, just because you see tourists feeding wildlife that does not make it okay. Park Rangers will stop them if they see them, but in the meantime do your own part to not add to the problem.  Just like meadow-stomping: follow the rules because it’s the right thing to do and is for the good of the Parks even if you don’t see the immediate impact.

Southeastern National Parks wildlife safety

The Southeastern USA is a fascinating place unlike any other part of the country. When it comes to wildlife, you’ve actually got a variety of species both to be concerned about and to be respectful of.  You’ll find as you tour from Louisiana to the Atlantic Coast of Florida you’re going to have a lot of coast line, subtropical forests and coast. You’ll find De Soto National Monument, the Everglades, Big Cypress National Monument, Biscayne National Park and more. Let’s just say that there are some ground rules for wildlife safety in all of these Parks.

Manatees in the National Parks

To us this goes without saying, but if you’ve not visited Florida this might not click.  Manatees have very specific diets consisting of grasses, algae and other micro-organisms, NOT HUMAN FOOD.  There are places in Everglades National Park or even just near public beaches and rivers or springs in Florida where manatees will congregate or travel. They don’t need any help from humans to get food and are most likely not interested in anything you have to give. Let them be.

We love getting to explore National Park by boat (love boating!) but we’re rarely in the captains seat outside of the PNW. If you find yourself piloting a boat from St. Augustine’s Castillo de San Marcos or Fort Matanzas down around Florida and up into the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll be in manatee/dolphin waters that whole way. Just like you need to watch for logs and debris, you need to be wart of manatees. We’ve seen too many with scars and wounds and it’s heart breaking.

Anecdote: we were on a boat with St Augustine Ecotours heading down the Intracoastal Waterway when we came across some manatees, one of which was injured. Too many boaters just cruise through the Intracoastal much faster than is safe for wildlife and it takes its toll.

Alligators and crocodiles

Even though gators and crocs may eat almost anything, they also don’t need help foraging. The main goal with wildlife safety in our National Parks is to preserve the animals and help them remain in their pristine ecosystems. Encouraging animals, particularly alligators, to interact with humans and venture beyond their habitat has the following negative impacts:

teaching them to pursue a new food source

adding unhealthy foods to their diets

potentially impacting the balance they provide to their native ecosystem

endangering humans and pets by encouraging their presence thus making it unsafe

If you’re planning a visit to the Everglades or Big Cypress, you’ll FOR SURE see alligators.  And they live beyond the borders of the National Parks system too, so always keep that in mind.

I know, it seems so simple, but wildlife safety cannot be talked about too much.  Alligators and crocodiles have such a bad rap for being aggressive and injuring or killing humans, so we should all be conscious of appropriate behavior in their environments so they can remain there and in as natural a state as possible.  It’s best for everybody.

Hiking and wildlife safety

Hiking is nearly synonymous with National Parks, and hiking safety is key to enjoying a visit with kids.  Hiking out of one of the popular areas within National Parks will often get you both sweeping, amazing views and opportunities to see wildlife. Leaving the crowds behind brings takes you out of the power position though and you’re fulling into nature, into the territory of the WILDlife.

Wildlife safety, in general, when it comes to hiking is actually quite simple:

Do not approach wildlife, observe from a distance

Do not feel wildlife of any sort

Do not separate a mother from her young (especially bears and moose)

Make your presence known; don’t spook an animal and risk an attack out of fear

Those general guidelines should be a good framework for staying safe when you encounter wildlife while hiking.  We do get questions about all kinds of specific types of wildlife safety, like what to do if you come across a bear or a cougar.  Here are our best tips for the most common dangerous animal encounters you might have in a National Park.

If you have a few minutes, watch this great video from the National Park Service all about wildlife safety and hiking in bear country:

For some great safety videos from the National Park Service specific to safety in Yellowstone National Park, click here.

Hopefully you feel pretty darn confident about wildlife safety now and are ready to go explore our National Parks. And we want to thank our friends over at Kids Are a Trip for inspiring us to share this helpful information. Hopefully we’ll be hearing some awesome stories from them about their wilderness experiences in the coming year!

Want to pin this for later when you’re plotting our you own wildlife experiences?  Go for it!

Wildlife Safety in America’s National Parks: keeping humans AND animals safe Every year you read about some tourist that didn't think about if trying to ride a bison or something was smart.

[kansascityhappenings]

Gas prices expected to climb higher because of Hurricane Harvey

http://cdn.tribtv.com/namp/player/embed.html?station=wdaf&feed=1&auto=yes

CORPUS CHRISTI — Hurricane Harvey is barreling down on vital oil and gas facilities on the U.S. Gulf Coast that serve as the nerve center of America’s energy infrastructure. (If you don’t see the livestream in the player above, click here.)

The biggest risk is that this potential Category 3 storm causes prolonged disruptions to the critical refineries along the Texas Gulf Coast, which is home to nearly one-third of the nation’s capacity to turn oil into gas, diesel and other products.

By early Friday, warnings of “life-threatening” rain from Hurricane Harvey have forced the evacuation and shutdown of several refineries. Gasoline prices immediately ratcheted steadily higher, a trend that could continue for some time depending on the severity of the damage.

Not only will the storm limit the Gulf Coast’s ability to refine oil, but it’s already shut down the flow of oil shipments in and out of the Port of Corpus Christi, the nation’s leading port for crude oil exports.

“We may have never had a storm like this. The impact on the energy industry could potentially be devastating” for the next week, John LaRue, executive director of the Port of Corpus Christi, told CNNMoney.

The port has worked all week to prepare for the storm. LaRue said pilots stopped boarding vessels Thursday afternoon and maintenance workers have tied down everything that projected winds of 125 miles per hour could “turn into missiles or projectiles.”

Hurricane Harvey also forced the shutdown of the Houston Ship Channel on Friday for incoming and outgoing vessels, Platts reported.

To meet America’s enormous appetite for oil, more than 3 million barrels of waterborne crude gets shipped to the U.S. Gulf each day from places like Mexico, Colombia and Saudi Arabia, according to ClipperData. The U.S. Gulf Coast also exports about 1 million barrels of crude each day to customers overseas.

Hurricane Harvey is also disrupting oil and natural gas production in the Gulf of Mexico and inland as energy companies evacuate rigs and platforms. The U.S. Gulf of Mexico is home to almost one-fifth of total U.S. oil output, according to the EIA.

“It’s the key energy hub of the U.S,” said Matt Smith, director of commodity research at ClipperData.

Harvey is the first major hurricane to seriously threaten the U.S. Gulf Coast in several years. Hurricanes Gustav and Ike in 2008 as well as Hurricane Isaac in 2012 all knocked more than 1 million barrels of Gulf oil production offline, according to the EIA. Those hurricanes also temporarily disrupted refining capacity.

Hurricanes that land in Texas tend to have little impact on oil production, but more significant consequences for refining, according to Tom Kloza, chief oil analyst at the Oil Price Information Service.

Related: Gas prices will jump thanks to Hurricane Harvey

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – AUGUST 25: A road sign warns travelers of the the approaching Hurricane Harvey on August 25, 2017 in Corpus Christi, Texas. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Harvey is projected to first strike near Corpus Christi, which is home to five different refineries that can process up to 868,000 barrels per day, according to Kloza. That’s roughly 4% of the country’s refining capacity.

The National Weather Service predicts the storm will then move north along the coast towards Houston, which is an even bigger refining center. The Houston, Texas City and Baytown region have 11 refineries that can handle 2.7 million barrels per day, according to Kloza. That’s about 14% of the country’s refining capacity.

“If the storm camps out between Corpus Christi and Houston for several days, infrastructure will stay offline for longer and there will be bigger impacts on pricing,” said Jenna Delaney, senior oil analyst with S&P Global Platts.

Houston also marks the beginning of the Colonial Pipeline, which transports more than 100 million gallons of gasoline, heating oil and aviation fuel each day to as far as the New York harbor. Power outages during Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005 forced the shutdown of parts of the Colonial Pipeline for several days.

Related: Hurricane Harvey cost estimate: $40 billion

Kloza said that normally refining is knocked offline for just a brief time, making the impact on prices just fleeting. But that depends on the severity of the storm.

“Katrina was the exception,” Kloza said, referring to the 2005 storm that badly damaged Gulf Coast operations.

A Category 3 storm could create outages of two to three weeks due to massive power outages, wind damage and flooding that make it challenging for workers to return, Kloza said.

He predicted Harvey is likely to cause only a short-term jump of 5 to 10 cents per gallon in gas prices, though he said a 25-cent spike in a worst-case scenario is also possible.

“You’re talking about a situation where a month from now gas prices will probably be lower. But a week from now they’ll be higher,” said Kloza.

The outer bands of Hurricane Harvey have begun swiping the Texas coast as 35 inches of rain and “catastrophic” storm-surge flooding is predicted following landfall late Friday or early Saturday, the National Hurricane Center said.

The combination of heavy rain, “life-threatening” storm surges, flooding and strong winds could leave wide swaths of South Texas “uninhabitable for weeks or months,” the National Weather Service in Houston said. Such daunting language hasn’t been seen by CNN’s experts since Hurricane Katrina, which left more than 1,800 people dead in 2005.

Harvey, still a Category 2 hurricane, is on track to strengthen to Category 3, with winds of at least 111 mph by the time it makes landfall around Corpus Christi, forecasters said.

A hurricane warning is in effect for about 1.5 million people, with another 16 million under a tropical storm warning, the weather service said.

“Texas is about to have a very significant disaster,” said Brock Long, director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

TRACK THE STORM

Residents were urged to evacuate. A mass exodus from the coast caused extensive traffic jams along the state’s highways, while other people boarded up windows and stocked up on food and water ahead of the storm, the effects of which are expected to last for days.

After landfall, the storm will stall and dump rain on South Texas and parts of Louisiana into the middle of next week, forecasters predicted.

“All indications from the hurricane center are that this is going to be the first major hurricane the nation has dealt with since 2005,” Long said.

Latest developments

— Harvey strengthened early Friday, becoming a Category 2 hurricane with winds up to 110 mph, according to the National Weather Service.

— Isolated tornadoes are possible Friday across portions of the middle and upper Texas coast, the service said.

— President Donald Trump tweeted that he has spoken with the governors of Texas and Louisiana, saying he is “closely monitoring Hurricane Harvey developments and here to assist as needed.”

— Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has requested the activation of 700 National Guard members.

— “We are prepared; we are not panicking,” Galveston Mayor James Yarbrough said.

— The Ports of Corpus Christi and Galveston are closed.

— Three Galveston-based cruise ships in the Gulf of Mexico diverted to safer water.

FEMA prepared for ‘significant disaster’

Those who stay should “elevate and get into a structure that can withstand potentially Category 3 winds from a hurricane,” Long, the FEMA director, said.

“The bottom line message is, right now, if people have not heeded the warning, again, their window to do so is closing,” Long said. “If they refuse to heed the warning, that’s on them.”

Long said he is “very worried” about storm surge, or “wind-driven water,” slamming coastal areas, saying it has the “highest potential to kill the most amount of people and cause the most amount of damage.”

“Over the next five days, we’re going to see copious amounts of rainfall, up to 25 inches, possibly, in some areas, with isolated higher amounts,” he said. “This is going to be a slow-developing major disaster event for the state of Texas.”

FEMA has pre-positioned incident management teams, as well as life-saving and life-sustaining commodities, and search-and-rescue teams in Texas, Long said.

Long said FEMA is “fully engaged” with the White House, as Harvey is poised to deliver a critical test of Trump’s abilities as commander-in-chief.

“I think we’ll be looking at the potential request for presidential disaster declarations coming up from Gov. Abbott,” Long said. “The President has the ability, has the authority to sign off on those to mobilize our support to the state governments.”

Officials also worried that Harvey’s abundant rain will drench Texas and the region for several days.

“We could see this storm park for almost five days in some places, and we hear 3 feet of rain,” said Bill Read, the former director of the National Hurricane Center. “That’s just going to be a huge problem for these areas.”

Harvey is also causing concern in New Orleans, where heavy rain could usher in as much as 20 inches of rain through early next week and overwhelm the city’s already-compromised drainage system.

‘I’m trying to be strong’

The threat of Harvey became evident Thursday when several coastal Texas counties issued evacuation orders, leading to hordes of residents sitting bumper to bumper miles.

Rose Yepez told CNN it took her twice as long as usual to drive 140 miles from Corpus Christi to San Antonio, en route to Texas Hill Country.

Private vehicles — along with city buses packed with adults and children carrying backpacks — jammed roads for hours.

“I’m shaking inside, but for them, I’m trying to be strong,” a Corpus Christi woman who was waiting with her two daughters to board a bus out of town told CNN affiliate KRIS.

Workers at 39 offshore petroleum production platforms and an oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico also evacuated Thursday, the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement said.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said anyone not leaving should plan to stay off the roads once the storm starts.

“People need to know, this is not a one-, two-day event and done,” Turner said. “Even though it may seem like it will get better, this is a four- or five-day event, starting tomorrow evening, going through Monday or Tuesday.”

Staying put, boarding up

First responders like Brittany Fowler stayed behind and waited for the storm.

“Hopefully it doesn’t do any damage, but if it does, we’ve prepared,” Fowler, a firefighter in Corpus Christi, wrote on Instagram.

Fowler’s family helped by boarding up windows and doors at her home, and she bought plenty of water, food and a small power generator.

Corey Davis, by contrast, was free to go — but opted to stay put, even as Harvey’s winds started blowing Thursday night. Instead of packing, she and her relatives took turns climbing a tall ladder to secure plywood over windows at their Port O’Connor home.

“I’m scared, so I’m doing everything that I can to protect (this) little place down here,” Davis told CNN affiliate KTRK, “and hope and pray for the best.”

Despite the warnings, Elsie and David Reichenbacher prepped supplies and plan to stay put in Corpus Christi.

“I’ve gone through a lot of hurricanes. I’ve lived here most of my life,” Elsie Reichenbacher said. “I’d rather take care of my home and my animals and be safe here. I’m on high ground with my house.”

from FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports http://fox4kc.com/2017/08/25/gas-prices-expected-to-climb-higher-because-of-hurricane-harvey/

from Kansas City Happenings https://kansascityhappenings.wordpress.com/2017/08/25/gas-prices-expected-to-climb-higher-because-of-hurricane-harvey/

[joesbrownusa]

Houses For Sale in Webster, FL

47th Ln, Webster, FL

Price: $285000

Appx 38 acres, fenced, currently has horses and a pole barn in place, along with a well. You’ll enjoy seeing this piece of property. Some trees, along with the pasture.

Glenchester Dr, Webster, FL

Price: $32000

Hernando County Property Appraiser – https://www.hernandopa-fl.us 1/3+ Acre corner lot in the Ridge Manor Estates area of rural Webster, FL. Only a 15 minute drive to the coast! Also, only 10 miles to surrounding Spring Hill for more shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and more. Near to schools, healthcare, and all other amenities. Enjoy hunting, fishing, boating, golfing, hiking, camping, ATVs, etc Listing ID: 280650 Title: Free & Clear Zoning: VACANT LOT – RESIDENTIAL Lot Size: .39 Acres Address: Glenchester Dr. Webster, FL 33597 Taxes(2016): $108.89 Listing Price: $32,000 Act ivities/Things to do in the surrounding area: WEEKI WACHEE SPRINGS WEEKI WACHEE PRESERVE HERNANDO HERITAGE MUSEUM

7299 Treiman Blvd, Webster, FL

Price: $5900

Commercial lot on Trieman Blvd which is also 301, a main thoroughfare through the county. Possible owner finance or possible lease. Buyer to confirm lot dimensions and location. Sign placement approximate through GPS. Owner does not have survey.

11022 SE 14th Dr, Webster, FL

Price: $115000

Rustic Florida Home located on 6.53 acres mol. Land is in three separate tracts, each can be built on. Large screened side porch, 2 bedrooms 1 bath, newer metal roofing, Central Heat and Air, large detached Workshop, fenced and cross fenced with no climb fencing (horse fencing). Cattle pens, Cattle Gap, accessed by Easement. Copy of easement, Survey and Water Test in file. Beautiful country view of pasture, large live oaks and a pond on adjacent property.

4606 Cr 692, Webster, FL

Price: $59092

Investor opportunity! This property is being offered at Public Auction on 03-23-2017. Visit Auction.com now to see the Estimated Opening Bid, additional photos, Property Reports with Title information, Plat maps and Interior Inspection Reports when available. Auction.com markets Foreclosure Sale properties throughout Florida for banks, financial institutions and government agencies who are very motivated to see these properties sell to investors. The majority of these properties are priced below market value. Don’t miss this special opportunity to buy homes at wholesale prices! In addit ion to this property, 35 other properties are scheduled for sale at this same Foreclosure Sale. In our online auctions and live Foreclosure Sales, Auction.com currently has 9 properties scheduled for sale in Sumter County and 2274 throughout Florida. All properties and sale details can be found with a simple search at Auction.com. Create a FREE account today to find more properties like this one, save searches of properties that meet your investment criteria and have the properties you’re looking for emailed directly to you when posted in an upcoming sale event. To view the complete details of this exact property, click the Auction.com link below or paste the Property ID 2339590 into the search bar at Auction.com

4817 SW 121st Rd, Webster, FL

Price: $159000

Take a look at this 1800+ square foot 3 bedroom 2 bath home. Features a large detached 24 x 24 2 car garage with work shop area. Home originally built in 1969 but over the last 10-12 years has added on master bedroom area , master bath, kitchen and dining room area, updated windows plus more. Call today for a showing.

2699 Cr 722, Webster, FL

Price: $124900

If you like the country ,peace and quiet,this home is for you. This 3 BDRM 2 BA has plenty of space inside the home and lots of room outside. If you like gardening there is a Greenhouse along with plenty of acreage for other gardening or lots of room for your horse or other animals. Beautiful built in fireplace.There are so many possibilities,if you like the outdoors,need storage space or just some quiet time this place is for you. Don’t miss out come and see today !

4872 SW 122nd Ln, Webster, FL

Price: $25000

Concrete block home with tons of potential in the quiet town of Webster. Within 45 minutes of The Villages, 1 hour of Ocala, 1 hour of Tampa, 1 hour of Lakeland. Great vacation spot. See also Parcel ID R14K005 for sale also.

10189 SE 22nd Path, Webster, FL

Price: $32000

Great floor plan. Large living room and master bedroom. Very large lot. Large screen room. 10×12 shed with two lofts. Metal roof and vinyl siding. In 55+ park. Pet friendly.

9436 SE 49th Ter, Webster, FL

Price: $46500

lot 293 florida grande motor coach resort, a class “a” resort, located in the center of the state. this lot is one of the few oversized lots, ready to go with a reinforced pad, hook-up all in place. florida grande motor coach resort is unique in that the lots are oversized, the streets are extra wide, the pads are reinforced with an additional 6″ of concrete to accommodate the large coaches. the amenities are exceptional: 20,000 sq ft clubhouse with grande ballroom, commercial kitchen, craft room, game room, wi-fi room, gym, mail/laundry room, library, all under roof. outside is an olym pic size heated pool, gazebo, and bbq area. this resort is in the middle of everything: an hour to the parks, a short drive to the beach or gulf, 30 minutes to the villages, theatres and shopping, and just 5 minutes to the world famous webster flea market. and for the car buffs, the sumter county car swap meet once a month at the fairgrounds. come take a look!

427 N Market Blvd, Webster, FL

Price: $10000

3.8 Acre Property Webster, Sumter County, Florida Income producing property. Located across from the Webster Flea Market. Collecting fees from the over flow of parked cars as shown in the photographs. Possible rental revenue as well. * The above stated amount is called a suggested opening bid. This is an opening bid only and will not in any way constitute the amount that is reserved by the seller. The final price will be determined by competitive offers via the bidding app. The app is an online bidding platform and after registration you may place your offer. It i s suggested to make your best offer. Many offers maybe placed into the system, however lower offers while considered may not be acceptable. The system cannot not tell you what is acceptable and until you place you offer, no one knows what you are willing to pay. The seller as initiated the liberty of bidding, and opens the bidding to the public, however has the right to accept or reject any or all bids. It is the Auctioneers suggestion to make your best offer, keep in mind there is a buyers premium or auction fee paid to the online auction administrators. Purchasers mat be liable for closing costs and prorated amounts of taxes and in some cases the back taxes due. You cooperation is needed to purchase the property, however be mindful of the terms and conditions set forth here or as any other Auction Announcements that may take precedent.

Cr 478a, Webster, FL

Price: $1008000

240 Acres, a large tract of land,with natural forest and wildlife. located in southeast Sumter County off of County Road 478A. Property has 12 tracts of 20 acres each, and perimeter fencing. This property is a private retreat for the right buyer. The parcels included are S10=060 through S10-071. Legal description to large for space, see the listing file. SEE Attachment for more information.

4599 Cr 690, Webster, FL

Price: $7995

TAKING ADDITIONAL OFFERS UNTIL NOON ON MONDAY 2/20. Half Acre lot is ready for your home. The existing home is not habitable. Well and Septic were functional but have not been used. Electric is on site.

Address Not Disclosed, Webster, FL

Price: $187000

This beautiful well manicured 22 +/- acre parcel with two gated entrances, one on the West side and one on the East side on two separate paved county roads, is pristine and ready for your home. Choose your perfect home site. The entrance takes you through a canopy of grandfather oaks on the rock driveway. There are two wells with water troughs for the animals and the property is totally fenced. Best of all there are NO IMPACT FEES. Also there is an additional 4+ acres adjoining that could be purchased.

11464 Cr 675, Webster, FL

Price: $55000

Come see this great little gem in Webster. This 3/2 mobile home has a 2 car carport with a concrete pad. The property features a fenced in yard and beautiful oak trees. It is situated on a corner lot. It will not be on the market long. Schedule a showing while you can!

12267 SW 43rd Ter, Webster, FL

Price: $97000

2007 4/2 on .51 acre, wire fenced rear of home, stainless appliances m/w range hood 1 year old, eat-in kitchen, formal dining, brand new heat /air, new well pump, hugh home for your family, lots of parking, vaulted ceilings, small deck out front, come home to quite!!

4596 SW 110th Pl, Webster, FL

Price: $115000

2.5 acres of wooded paradise, no HOA and a 2 story home with 2,062 sq.ft. of living space. This home has many possibilities-There are two entry ways into the home and the layout of this home would allow you to have multiple families living here if you wish. Down stairs is the family room, a large bathroom and a sitting room with fireplace that could be converted into a bedroom and a full kitchen. The other side of the home has a formal dining room or game room with your own wet bar that could be converted into a kitchen. As you go upstairs you will find a small nook area that leads you into a loft with a wet bar and a place for your washer and dryer. There are 5 bedrooms upstairs along with a bathroom. The 15×16 bedroom has two large closets and has an adjoining bedroom (12×09) that could be used as an office or converted into a master bath. Enjoy the nature and beautiful azaleas on your 18×12 screened lanai. The roof was replaced in 2013 and the septic was replaced in 2004 and you will find double pane windows throughout with a lifetime warranty. There is also a barn/workshop on this property. Wildlife and nature awaits your arrival.

97 NW 3rd Ave, Webster, FL

Price: $69900

Sitting on close to 2 acres and with easy access to SR50 and local shopping and dining, this sprawling floor plan offers great potential for those seeking to personalize a well designed and family friendly floor plan. An enclosed Florida Room as well as a separate utility room and shed offer added features for easy living in a rural setting. ***Please allow 5 days for initial seller’s response***

3231 Burwell Rd, Webster, FL

Price: $46500

This Mobile/Manufactured is located at 3231 Burwell Road, Webster, FL. 3231 Burwell Rd is in the 33597 ZIP code in Webster, FL. The average listing price for ZIP code 33597 is $93,928. 3231 Burwell Rd has 3 beds, 2 baths, and was built in 1995

287 NE 2nd St, Webster, FL

Price: $24900

This cute 1 bedroom, 1 bath home is perfect for the first time buyer that knows how to swing a hammer. The bones of this home are strong and just needs that final loving touch that only you can give. Come see it now and make it your dream home.

from Houses For Sale – The OC Home Search http://www.theochomesearch.com/houses-for-sale-in-webster-fl/ from OC Home Search https://theochomesearch.tumblr.com/post/158133641975

[newstfionline]

Trump wants to push back against Iran, but Iran is now more powerful than ever

By Liz Sly and Loveday Morris, Washington Post, February 5, 2017

BEIRUT--President Trump’s tough talk on Iran is winning him friends in the Arab world, but it also carries a significant risk of conflict with a U.S. rival that is now more powerful than at any point since the creation of the Islamic republic nearly 40 years ago.

With its warning last week that Iran is “on notice,” the Trump administration signaled a sharp departure from the policies of President Obama, whose focus on pursuing a nuclear deal with Iran eclipsed historic U.S. concerns about Iranian expansionism and heralded a rare period of detente between Washington and Tehran.

Many in the region are now predicting a return to the tensions of the George W. Bush era, when U.S. and Iranian operatives fought a shadow war in Iraq, Sunni-Shiite tensions soared across the region and America’s ally Israel fought a brutal war with Iran’s ally Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Except that now the United States will be facing down a far stronger Iran, one that has taken advantage of the past six years of turmoil in the Arab world to steadily expand its reach and military capabilities.

“In order to confront Iran or push back more fiercely against it, you may find you’re in a conflict far more far-reaching and more destructive to the global economy than many of our allies or American public are willing to bear,” said Nicholas Heras of the Center for a New American Security.

Iran’s alleged quest to produce a nuclear weapon--which Tehran has always denied--has been curbed by the nuclear accord signed in 2015. But in the meantime it has developed missiles capable of hitting U.S. bases and allies across the Middle East and a network of alliances that have turned it into the most powerful regional player.

Iran now stands at the apex of an arc of influence stretching from Tehran to the Mediterranean, from the borders of NATO to the borders of Israel and along the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula. It commands the loyalties of tens of thousands of allied militias and proxy armies that are fighting on the front lines in Syria, Iraq and Yemen with armored vehicles, tanks and heavy weapons. They have been joined by thousands of members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, Iran’s most prestigious military wing, who have acquired meaningful battlefield experience in the process.

For the first time in its history, the Institute for the Study of War noted in a report last week, Iran has developed the capacity to project conventional military force for hundreds of miles beyond its borders. “This capability, which very few states in the world have, will fundamentally alter the strategic calculus and balance of power within the Middle East,” the Institute said.

America’s Sunni Arab allies, who blame the Obama administration’s hesitancy for Iran’s expanded powers, are relishing the prospect of a more confrontational U.S. approach. Any misgivings they may have had about Trump’s anti-Muslim rhetoric have been dwarfed by their enthusiasm for an American president they believe will push back against Iran.

“We are so happy and excited about President Trump,” said Abdullah al-Shamri, a former Saudi Arabian diplomat, speaking from the Saudi capital of Riyadh. “We expect him to deal with the Iranians as the threat that they are, producing missiles and interfering in other countries.”

Exactly what the Trump administration intends to do about a state of affairs that has already become deeply entrenched is unclear, however. So pervasive is Iran’s presence across the region that it is hard to see how any U.S. administration could easily roll it back without destabilizing allies, endangering Americans, undermining the war against the Islamic State and upsetting the new regional balance that emerged during the Obama administration’s retreat, analysts say.

The Trump administration has given no indication that it intends to abrogate the nuclear accord. Rather, U.S. officials say, the goal is to contain activities that lie outside the scope of the accord, such as the ballistic missile program and what one official called the “destabilizing activities” of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps and its proxies.

So far, U.S. action has been confined to retaliation for Iran’s test-fire of a ballistic missile last week and an attack by Yemen’s Houthi rebels on a Saudi Arabian navy ship in the Red Sea. The Treasury imposed sanctions Friday against people and companies alleged to be involved in the missile program and the Pentagon dispatched the naval destroyer U.S.S. Cole to the coast of Yemen, suggesting that Iran’s arming of the Houthis may be an early target.

Otherwise, the Trump administration has given little indication of what it has in mind, except to make it clear that it intends to be different from Obama.

“Iran is playing with fire--they don’t appreciate how ‘kind’ President Obama was to them. Not me!” Trump wrote in a tweet Friday.

Iran has offered a relatively muted response to the challenge, with Iran’s foreign minister tweeting that Iran is “unmoved” by the threats emanating from Washington. “We’ll never initiate war,” he said.

But those familiar with Iran’s behavior in the region have said that they do not believe it will readily surrender its gains.

“Any pushing back, the Iranians won’t take it lying down,” predicted Mowaffak al-Rubaie, a Shiite Iraqi parliamentarian who has, for many years, worked to bridge the divide between Iran and America in Iraq.

“Iraq, Iran and the United States are an extremely finely balanced equation, and Trump shouldn’t come and bash,” he said. “He should play this extremely delicately.”

It is in Iraq, where fighting the Islamic State has most conspicuously brought the United States into a tacit alliance with Iran, that a more hostile relationship between Tehran and Washington could prove most consequential.

Iranian-backed militias are deeply embedded in the overall Iraqi effort to wrest back territory from the militants, one that is also being aided by the United States. In the Mosul offensive, hundreds of U.S. advisers are working alongside Iraqi troops advancing from the east, among about 6,000 U.S. troops currently deployed in Iraq. Thousands of Iranian-backed militias are meanwhile advancing on the city from the west, among a force of tens of thousands that answers mostly, though not exclusively, to Iran.

It is also hard to see how the United States could act to curtail the extensive influence acquired by Iran during the war in Syria. Iran and Russia together have fought to ensure the survival of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, and they are now pursuing a peace settlement in alliance with Turkey that excludes a role for America. The United States has been left with few friends and little leverage, apart from the Kurds in the northeast of the country.

Russia controls the skies over Syria, and Turkey wields influence over the rebels, but Iran holds sway on the ground, through its extensive network of Shiite militias drawn from Lebanon, Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan. They have provided the manpower for front lines from the northern countryside of Aleppo, near the Turkish border, to the Golan Heights bordering Israel in the south.

Trump’s promises to curb Iranian influence are at odds with his stated desire to pursue closer cooperation with Russia in Syria and also to support Assad, because Iran is allied with both Assad and Russia, said Mustafa Alani, a director at the Dubai-based Gulf Research Center.

“He will not be able to contain Iran if he is going to support Assad. He cannot have both at the same time,” he said.