FLORIDA KEYS string of small islands (Keys) stretch into the Gulf of Mexico like a necklace of uncut bejeweled stones. A fitting description considering all the Spanish and other treasures known to have sunk off the coasts of the area! The ten Keys of the string start with Key Largo, Marathon, Tavernier, Bahia Honda, Islamorada, Big Pine, Long Key, Little Torch, Grassy and Key West are interconnected by a series of bridges including the famous ‘Seven Mile Bridge’ facilitating excellent access to the mainland.

Subject to tropical storms and hurricanes, early warning centers provide residents with ample time to make preparations or leave the area to avoid damage or discomfort. Visitors are advised to spend time touring and stopping at the upper, middle and lower keys to experience all of the best on offer. Fishing, diving and jet-skiing are encouraged under controlled conditions that will ensure ecological and practical survival of the only living coral reef off the US coast, as well as licensed commercial fishing. Apart from the mainland Everglades National Park, there are ten parks and beach sites on the Keys, where boating, swimming, viewing, hiking and sometimes camping is available, from Key Largo to the end of key West.

Travelling from Miami (US 1) naturally the fist stop would be at Key Largo, a haven for fishing, ‘diving capital of the world’ with coral reef and boating, with lots of hotels, motels and resort and camping accommodation, restaurants, attractions, tours and night life.

The central Island of Marathon is known as the ‘sports fishing and water activity Mecca’ of the Keys, where you can swim with dolphins or bask on Sombrero Beach. ‘Boatels’ are a popular accommodation experience and an airport provides flights on national carriers.

Tavernier is known for its Bird Park and as a choice to stay in a ‘quiet community’ with easy access to the rest of the islands and entertainment areas.

Islamorada Island is considered the ‘Sport Fishing Capital of the World’ with almost as many boats as fish! That can guide to the big game or numerous wrecks to explore in shallow waters. Overflowing with restaurants, entertainment and nightlife, it also offers stunning sunsets off the waterfront.

Big Pine key is home to two small State Parks, where the rare White Tailed Deer roam, and the Marine Sanctuary where you can go off shore or ‘flats’ fishing and afterwards relax to some island music in a local (Tiki) Bar.

Long Key is where the State Park accommodates campers and nature lovers who like seclusion yet easy access to neighboring keys.

Little Torch Key is known for being a quiet location, close to the corals of the marine sanctuary and its exclusive, off shore, Palm Island Resort.

Grassy Key hosts the Dolphin Research Center which offers tours and swims with these delightfully friendly ‘cousins’.

Key West has a historical significance as one of the first visited by Spanish explorers and was until more recently, a staging point for travelers to and from Cuba. Writers like Hemingway lived here, and many festivals and occasions still honor his memory. After a day of rides and attractions, visitors and locals still have big fascination to visit many of his old ‘watering holes’ that lure boaters, divers, fishermen and visitors to explore the night life, musical vibrancy or watch sunsets over the island, while listening to pipers playing “Amazing Grace”, is an emotive experience not to be missed.

Houtman Abrolhos Islands is another Australian territory in the Indian Ocean. The Abrolhos Islands have some of the best snorkeling and diving sites in the world, as well as deep sea fishing and (controlled) rock lobster fishing. Situated close to the west coast of Australia, they also have an exotic history of shipwrecks, bullion, mutiny and survival that have fueled both writers of history and fiction.

These 120 odd islands have 3 major island groups, Wallabi, Easter and Pelsaert. Visitors are strictly controlled as are commercial fishermen. Access to tourists is only via an invitation from a commercial fisherman or permit from the ‘Department of Fisheries, Fauna and Flora and Tourism’. No overnight facilities are available and food and liquid sustenance are not provided, needing complete self sufficiency. There is a public jetty at East Wallabi Island and an airstrip for private aircraft use.

A visit to the Abrolhos Islands is a rare and privileged experience despite the restrictions and anyone interested in marine, mammal and birdlife will find it a very fulfilling experience.

Cocos (Keeling) Islands and Christmas Islands are waiting to be promoted as tourist destinations. This provides great opportunity for eco-tourists who can visit before over popularity will spoil much of the atmosphere, ambiance, natural scenery and fauna and flora. Situated deep in the Indian Ocean, these Australian Territories were once mined for their guano (Phosphates) and yet retain ecological wonders of its undisturbed tropical rainforest and marine life. (With a little imagination – the shape of the island resembles a ‘flying lizard’!)

A strange history permeates both Cocos and Christmas Islands – Once the preserve of a ‘Feudal’ Scottish family, short-lived occupation by the Japanese, British and ‘cession’ to Australia, and its modern day conflict with the flood of immigrant ‘Boat People’, and a new Immigrant Detention Center. It has even been mooted as a possible ‘Space Port’ of the future.

There are two Container Ports on Christmas Island , Flying Fish Cove and the alternative port at Norris Point – in use during rough seas. A small resident population of less than 2000, it also hosts an airport with 3 weekly flights to Perth and weekly to Malaysia. A new Recreation Centre on Phosphate hill and an abandoned Casino. The road network is reasonably good, with only a few areas requiring four-wheel drive vehicles. Crustacean (Crab) and Bird species abound – a naturalist’s paradise.

Cocos(Keeling) Islands are another Coral Islands gem waiting to be promoted for tourism. Blessed with an infrastructure of a WW2 Aerodrome (now an International Airport) and Oil Terminal and various Anchorages, the South Keeling circle of islands has the potential to become a Resort Destination between Australia and Sri Lanka. North Keeling Island with its encircled lagoon offers a smaller scale development potential within the ‘Pulu National Park’ area, which protects the only endemic bird, the ‘Buff banded rail’ and a number of sea bird and Green Turtle breeding colonies. Around the archipelago are more than 500 species of fish, from migrating Whales and Dolphin to the local Angelfish and a plethora of reef fish. The wreck of the WW1 SMS Emden provides a focal point for diving opportunities. Both islands are lined with coconut palms – the major export industry.

Cooled by the Trade Winds for about nine months of the year, the climate is pleasant, except for the Monsoon Season early in the year. This idyllic little paradise is perfect for the tourist who seeks natural relaxation or adventures of discovery above and below the ocean.

Seychelles Achipelago has become a tourist’s legend before and ever since the famous South African artist Wren Sergeant (and others) displayed his stunning Impressionist art in the early 1960’s. The islands landscapes, seascapes and its indigenous peoples featured strongly in his brilliant works. Capturing the brilliant colors in dawn and sunsets has lured many an artist and photographer since. Naturally development followed close on the heels of the first ‘adventure tourists’ and today three of the major islands have a fine infrastructure to please the most discerning of tourists.

The two groupings of islands consist of the Inner and the Outer islands.

Of the 43 Inner islands, 3 of the major destinations or stepping stones to visit the surrounds are Mahe’, Praslin and La Digue.

Mahe’ hosts an International Airport at the Capital of Victoria and a Port and the majority of the population of about 72,000 persons. The 28 x 8km island is also the transportation hub to visits elsewhere in this vast area of many smaller islands. I0 large Resort Hotels and over 65 smaller Hotels, B&B’s and Self-catering businesses provide accommodation for many thousands of monthly visitors. Other services available in the three major islands are; Boat tours & hiring’s, Dive sites, fishing for ‘Big Game’, Scenic Drives, Walks and guided tours and Horse Riding or cycling.

Praslin is about 40km2 and is renown for its UNESCO – World Heritage Site, the ‘Valle’e de Mer’ where the unique and extra large, feminine,  ‘Coco de Mer’ fruit originates, and two of the ‘Top Ten Beaches of the World’! The history of harboring 18th Century Pirates and the founder by the French, ‘Duc de Praslin’ add spice to an already exotic location. A small port and airport offer access to the surrounding archipelago. Accommodation is catered for by over 50, large and small Hotels, Guest houses and self-catering enterprises. Other attractions are Art Galleries, Specialty Shops and Museum.

La Digue has a small population of only about 2,000 on the 10km2 island. It is home to some of the rarest and indigenous birds in the world, forests and exotic flora – almonds, vanilla, takamaka and coconuts and stunning beaches, diving and snorkeling opportunities. The small harbor offers a shuttle to surrounding islets and great fishing opportunities.

Outer Islands – the 72 are widespread – as far as 1,000km from Mahe’ and consist mainly of cays and outcrops. Alphonse and Desroches are the only two offering accommodation, sailing, fishing and diving – A sailing explorers dream.

Events – The monthly calendar is full of events and competitions during the cooler months from April to November. August 2009 has the Catholic Celebrations, Boat, Sail and Wind Surfing races, and Fishing Competitions. September has the Indian Religious Celebrations and Tourism Day. October has a Diving Competition and cultural – Festival Kreal. November hosts the great Marlin Tournament. December seems slumber time. January 2010 opens with a Marathon and February with a French cultural ‘Fete’, and a Rotary Fishing Competition. April introduces the Arts Festival of local visual delights. New, May, June and July activities are still to be announced. I can’t wait to hear – as these are some of the best (cooler) months to visit.

Bazaruto Archipelago is a National Park belonging to Mozambique, consisting of six main islands of Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magruque, Banque, Santa Carolina (also known as Paradise Island) and Shell Island. Situated in the southern Mozambique Channel between Madagascar, it is one of the most accessible and popular to South African tourists.

Bazaruto and Benguerra are particularly known for their beaches, diving, fishing and horse riding facilities, forests, fresh water lakes, wetlands, savannah and crocodiles. Benguerra Lodge is a renowned divers habitat.

The island of Magruque is privately owned and the other three are apparently unoccupied with little infrastructure, but certainly worth a visit for their natural unspoilt beauty. Bazaruto Island has the major infrastructure with five Resort type Lodges – all very expensive. Across on the mainland are a number of resorts and more affordable lodges.

To the north lie the Quirimbas Archipelago of 32 undeveloped coral islands and the renowned Seychelles group, 480-1,600km off the East Coast of African/Indian Ocean.

Comores are sandwiched between northern Mozambique on the East African coast and the large island of Madagascar. As an ancient staging post between Arabia, India and later the European traders the islands were systematically occupied and reoccupied – much like the Mediterranean islands. These beautiful islands today still reflect many cultural and political divisions between East and West.

For the tourist that appreciates and enjoys seeing the cultural diversity, the Comoros and adjacent areas in the Indian Ocean offer a unique experience. Of the four Islands, the French owned Mayotte island is an ‘Overseas Department of France’ and has the best tourist orientated infrastructure and is surrounded by an amazing reef protecting the islands mainland, and is considered to have the world’s largest lagoon.

The other Arabic islands of(Fr)Grand Comore (Ngazidja), Mohele (Mwali), Anjouan (Nzwane), and their many islets have an as yet undeveloped tourism industry because of political instability and have been prone to about 20 ‘take-over’s’ since independence in 1975. Grand Comore has an International Airport at the City Capital of Maroni and a harbor for Trading and sailing ships. The four islands also have one of the highest population densities in Africa, reaching almost a million souls. Languages spoken in the islands are French, Arabic and the local Comorean.

The French Island of Mayotte is topographically diverse, with deep undulating ravines and dormant volcanic peaks and hosts the capital city of Mamoutzou. The smaller adjacent island of Pamanzi and its town of Dzaudze has the best protected port and a military airport. It has three smaller notable islands of, Chissale M’Zamboro, Bandele and Sada, apparently unoccupied. The beaches, mostly in coves are stony and surrounded by lush vegetation. The islands are prone to cyclones in the rainy season and malaria infested yet Mayotte is a haven for the most spectacular diving in the world’s largest lagoon, where sea turtles abound and the humpbacked whales arrive in August and September to calve. Mount Choungui is a popular hiker’s paradise and local transport is by ‘bush taxis’. Languages are French and local Comorian and the Euro is the currency.

The Comoros Islands are for the adventurous and do not appear to have much in sophisticated tourism infrastructure but that could change soon!

Cyprus is a jewel in the Mediterranean Sea. As a historical ‘cross roads’ it has been overrun by invaders, defenders and settlers since time immorial. The latest flood of invaders is more benign -tourists come in their droves to experience the beauty of the Island, the seas, the historical sites and in the South, the Greek Culture and Cuisine. The disputed Turkish North has converted or demolished most of the old medieval structures and Coptic Christian Churches, and redeveloped villages.  Although cross border visits are not officially encouraged, it is possible to cross for a day visit and to find the border guards on both sides quite friendly and accommodating to tourists. (After all why not be proud of your country!).

Cyprus is famous for its Christian history pertaining to the visits by Apostles Paul and Barnabas and accompanied by Mark, who converted the then Roman Consul, thereby becoming the first country to governed by  Christian in 45 AD and leaving a strong Coptic Christian cultural heritage  still overlaying the ancient Greek and Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman occupations. Further back in time, some twelve centuries BC, is the famous ‘love cult’ of Aphrodite’s. Cypriots still consider their Island State, “The Love Island” – the ideal island for a romantic visit, weddings and honeymoons.

The capital of Nicosia (Lefkosia) despite being a ‘divided city’ between Turkish occupied north and Greek south still retains the magical Old City, museums, ancient churches and buildings that preserve the atmosphere of medieval days on the one hand and a rapidly expanding  modern European capital, business hub and cultural center, on the other.

Larnaka has the major International  Airport and secondary sea port as well as the remains of the ancient city-kingdom of Kiton, Mycenaean Greek fort, Castle, Museums and ecologically important Salt Lake- stopover for thousands if migratory birds, and delightful promenade of shady palms. Close to the north-eastern border of Turkish occupied territory lie the premier resort towns of Agia Napa and Protaras – with miles of golden sandy beaches and a paradise of safe, shallow, and crystal clear waters and  charming rural villages.

Lemesos (Limassol), “the city of merriment” derives it s sobriquet from its surrounding vineyards and famous wine festivals in September and carnival parades before Easter. As an important business and tourism center it has world class hotels and entertainment venues and many historic sites and museums to visit. (Where King Richard 1st married Berengaria of Navarre, in 1191)

Pafos on the south-western seaboard with its natural beauty, modern infrastructure and International Airport, is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike. Where the cult of Aphrodite (Goddess of love) flourished and with so many ancient sites it’s included in UNESCO’s list of ‘cultural and natural treasures’ list.

The spectacular Troodos Mountains in the center of the island bulges up to 1,952 meters peaking at Mount Olympos. The area is famous for its natural beauty, vineyards; charming villages, ancient churches and ‘cool, pine scented air’ and many hiking trails.

Exploring and getting around is best done by rented car or motor cycle; – there are daily busses between major towns, rural busses connecting villages to towns and ‘urban busses’ operate in summer, in certain tourist areas, and intercity shared-taxis connecting all major towns every half hour.(Weekends and Sundays may be limited).

Virtually every city, town or village has an archaeological site, monastery, medieval churches, and museums filled with ancient artifacts and mind boggling collections, some modern and most dating back many millennia. Overshadowing all this is the main attraction of the magnificent Mediterranean climate; sunny skies, sparkling seas, natural beauty and dozens of sun soaked beaches. All this encourages water sports from swimming, fishing, diving to boating, sailing and cruising around the island. On land area plethora of touring routes, hiking and biking trail off road experience, rock climbing to light aircraft flips and naturally, golf courses and other organized sporting activities.

Of course no visitor can resist the mouth watering culinary experiences on offer and wine tastings of some of the most ancient and modern cultivars available. There are cosmopolitan foods from all over the world and then there are the special local delights from the gourmet to the plain and simply delicious fresh produce of olives, salads, cheeses, meats, citrus fruits and succulent sea foods. From the street stall and some restaurants come the local, juicy ‘gyros’, ‘souvlakia’ and ‘sheftalia’ served in hot pita bread, or the traditional feast of ‘Meze’ – a huge gastronomic experience with a huge menu of traditional foods, best shared with family and friends. For the family and kids are many entertainment Theme Parks at the major cities. Adult entertainment with nightlife from the traditional to the most modern music and live shows expected anywhere, and local festivals fill the calendar.

• Summer Festivals from June to September fill the daily calendar of events but to highlight some of the most traditionally famous are as follows;
• January 6th, Epiphany – The first major religious celebration of the year, held in all Greek Orthodox churches, throughout the island. Ceremonially on the coast – a large cross is thrown in the water, to bless it.
• Akamas Festival, early in the year – (Paphos Aphrodite Festival) – a series of musical events, from classical to jazz, with musicians in concert, from all over Europe.
• Carnival Fests take place in towns across the Island, with colorful and extravagant floats.
• Green Monday – the beginning of lent – 50 days before Easter – where popularly, families picnic in the country on meatless and dairy free, vegetables and sea foods.
• Anthestiria – Flower Festival, to celebrate the onset of spring, with lavishly flower decorated floats in some major towns and villages.
• Greek Orthodox Easter – Festivities begin Friday and enact Christ’s death, burial and resurrection, traditionally followed by a family bowl of soup at home.
• Kataklysmos – (Pentacost) ‘Festival of the Flood’ – celebrating Noah’s deliverance – with traditional dancing, games, fun and entertainment in all seaside towns.
• Shakespearean Festival – June is the time when ‘the Bards’ works are enjoyed for three consecutive days, in the ancient, outdoors theatre of Kourion, under the stars.
• Ancient Greek Drama Festivals are celebrated in July and August in Kourion, Pafos, Agai Napa, Lanaka and Paralimni.
• September in Cyprus is time for the (Lemesos) two week extravaganza Wine Festival – with every evening to enjoy music, dance, snacks and ‘barrels of free wine’!
• Pafos Aphrodite Festival –where opera is performed in the open air at the harbor.
• Kypria International Festivals – from September to November and are major cultural events of music, dance, drama and art, held in all the major towns.
• Christmas and New Year – like elsewhere in the world, is celebrated in style, with church services, lavish meals, presents and all night New Year celebrations.

To corrupt a phrase, “So much to do, so little time” sums up a visit to Cyprus, an ‘Everlasting Island’.

The beautiful island of Madagascar can be found about 400km from the African coastline.  Madagascar is the fourth largest island stretching 1571 km by 571km.  Its natural diversity can be found in the mountains, deserts, rainforests and beaches.

As a result of the island’s isolation, most of the wildlife, half of the birdlife and most of the plants are absolutely unique to Madagascar – nowhere else in the world to be found. Lemurs, dwarf chameleons, tomato frogs and giant jumping rats are just a few of the island’s unique inhabitants.

Antanarivo is the country’s capitol city and a must see for a first time visitor.  Here you will get a feel of the island’s unique culture and hospitality.  The Lemur Park in Antanarivo is a tourist attraction.
From Antanarivo is suggested that a visitor should go to Sainte Marie Island north east of the main island of Madagascar.  This island is a mere 60km by 7km and used to be a pirate’s haven.  Divers will experience the marine world at its most exquisite here, with whale watching possible from July to September.

Nosy Be Island is also known as the perfume island of Madagascar with the lovely smell of ylang-ylang permeating the air. Nosy Be is on the north west coast of Madagascar and has 11 extinct volcanoes.  Boasting with 12 months of sunshine this is a wonderful diver’s destination with Nosy Tanikely with its marine sanctuary a must see!  Nosy Komba is close by and is known as the Lemur Island.

Morondava is on the drier west coast of Madagascar.  This area is known as Baobab country. These beautiful trees have been many an artist’s inspiration over centuries and are everywhere to see.  Rather than diving, Morondava attracts tourists interested in fishing and river expeditions.

Diego Suarez is on the northern tip of Madagascar.  This scenic area is known for the amber mountain and the extinct volcanoes.  The area is covered by rainforests, craters and waterfalls.

The Perinet Rainforest gives a different experience to a tourist usually attracted to tropical islands.  Here, far from the beaches, nature can be experienced in all its glory and uniqueness that Madagascar can offer.  There are some wonderful tours and accommodation available in this forest that spans over 12000 hectare.

Unfortunately with all that this island has to offer, there are also some drawbacks.  Here you will not have the luxury accommodation that you might have come to expect from tropical holiday destinations. This poor community are also often in turmoil and fighting between the different political sectors within the country.  Beside the dangers associated with a semi-war zone, malaria, rift valley fever, bilharzia, TB and rabies are medical dangers not alien to Madagascar.

Whether you are looking for a romantic break away, a family holiday or even an adventure holiday – you have picked the right spot!

Where is it? :  The Seychelles are made up out of 115 islands North East of Madagascar in the warm Indian Ocean.

What is the Capiital City?: Mahe, the main island, is host to the world’s smallest capital in the world – Victoria.

What Language do they speak? :  English, French and Creole are the languages used in the Seychelles.

When to Go? :  The best time to visit the Seychelles is from March to May and September to November.  This period tends to be calmer and wind free, providing excellent swimming, snorkeling and diving conditions.

What to Take? :  Pack light summer clothing, take a hat and do not forget your sunblock.  It is not necessary to take snorkeling or diving equipment, because most hotels and resorts will rent it to you.  If you prefer you can take your own.  If you are a avid hiker, pack comfortable shoes to explore the wonderful nature trails. Some visitors take their fishing gear, but even that can be rented once you are there.

Where to Stay? :  The islands offer a wide range of different types of accommodation.  It really depends on your preference seeing that you can choose between large hotels, small hotels, self-catering bungalows, resorts, spa hotels and even a marina hotel.  Rates and ratings differ, but over all accommodation in the Seychelles tend to be on the expensive side.  It is necessary to budget for expensive meals and activities in addition to the high price you pay for your bed.  Some hotels offer all inclusive packages.  If you take your children along make sure that you choose a hotel with a children’s club.  (These hotels seem to be more expensive and there is only a handful…)

What to Do? :  There is so much to do in the Seychelles!  I will only list a short list of highlights:

• Relaxing on the beautiful beaches and swimming in the warm water is often what most visitors enjoy most.
• Snorkeling and diving will open up a wonderful world of underwater beauty.
• Fishing, especially big game fishing is very popular.
• Sailing and other water sports are offered by the hotels.
• Shopping in Victoria’s craft market
• Visiting the clock tower in Victoria
• Island hop to get a feel of the different islands
• Visit the beautiful botanical gardens.  Vallee De Mai  Nature Reserve is also known as the Garden of Eden.
• St. Anne Marine National Park provides exquisite snorkeling opportunities.
• Anse Lazio was voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and warrants a visit.
• Bird Island
• Go hunt for the burried treasure of Bel Ombre.
• On the island La Digue you will see vanilla flowers and an array of other wild flowers.  You can see the extremely rare Seychelles Magpie Robin and the Seychelles Black Paradise Flycatcher.
• In Praslin you can see the Vallee Mai and Coco de Mer Palm with the largest seed and leaves. You can see the extremely rare black parrot, bulbul and fruit pigeon.

This is truly paradise! You will find yourself lying on a beach and ask yourself how did you get to be so lucky. If you can afford paradise I would recommend that you go and go again.  Seychelles do not only offer beaches, but also nature that cannot be compared to anything else you have ever seen in your life…

The Comores is made up out of four islands, found approximately halfway between Mozambique and Madagascar. It has a tropical climate with a rainy season that stretches from October until April.
You will find beautiful white beaches, turquoise warm sea and you will be surrounded by the scents of vanilla, nutmeg, jasmine and ylang-ylang.  True paradise as we can only imagine in our wildest dreams.

Unfortunately the downside to visiting this island far out way the potential for a great holiday:

• Health Risks :  The three major health risks are malaria, cholera and dengue fever.  It is imperative that you do not drink the local water, rather rely on bottled water.

• Volcano :  On the largest of the four islands, Grande Comore you will find an active volcano. Experts predict another eruption in the near future.

• Accommodation : Despite my best efforts to find suitable hotel accommodation, I failed.  It seems as if most foreigners who were involved in the tourism industry pulled out of the country due to the political instability and corruption. Most of the hotels I could find seemed old and did not provide meals.

• Medical Facilities :  No proper medical facilities are available and travel agencies actually encourage tourists to take their own medical kit.

• Crime :  Although crime is not high in this Islamic country, tourists are often victims of pick pocketers.

In my opinion, I would rather spend a little more on a holiday than to be exposed to these elements.  After all you want to relax on holiday and not worry about ending up with cholera.

This island used to be a wonderful tropical holiday destination.  Unfortunately political instability led to the country now being extremely impoverished.  The instability and corruption in the government killed the big tourism industry that thrived in the 1980’s to 1990’s.  Many tourists will now not be able to see the beauty of the island, which includes underwater splendor, beautiful rainforests and the unique animal life of Comores.

for more on the comores visit http://www.ocomores.org