Glaciers & Volcanoes

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is bustling, vibrant and diverse.
This gem on Canada's west coast boasts the perfect combination of
wild natural beauty and modern conveniences. Its spectacular views
and awesome cityscapes are a huge lure not only for visitors but
also for big productions, and it's even been nicknamed Hollywood
North for its ever-present film crews.

Less than a century ago, Vancouver was
barely more than a town. Today, it's Canada's third largest city
and more than two million people call it home. The shiny futuristic
towers of Yaletown and the downtown core contrast dramatically with
the snow-capped mountain backdrop, making for postcard-pretty
scenes.

Approximately the same size as the downtown
area, the city's green heart is Canada's largest city park, Stanley
Park, covering hundreds of acres filled with lush forest and
crystal clear lakes. Visitors can wander the sea wall along its
exterior, catch a free trolley bus tour, enjoy a horse-drawn
carriage ride or visit the Vancouver Aquarium housed within the
park.

The city's past is preserved in historic
Gastown with its cobblestone streets, famous steam-powered clock
and quaint atmosphere. Neighbouring Chinatown, with its weekly
market, Dr Sun Yat-Sen classical Chinese gardens and intriguing
restaurants add an exotic flair. For some retail therapy or
celebrity spotting, there is always the trendy Robson Street.

During the winter months, snow sports are
the order of the day on nearby Grouse Mountain. It's perfect for
skiing and snowboarding, although the city itself gets more rain
than snow. Vancouver's ethnic diversity and ideal combination of
mountains, sea and city offer visitors an endless supply of things
to see and do, no matter the budget.

Ketchikan, Alaska

The 'salmon capital of the world' started as a summer fish camp
on the shores of Ketchikan Creek used by the Tlingit natives, and
slowly became a major salmon canning centre. Native Inuit heritage
plays a large role in the touristic appeal of Ketchikan, which
boasts the largest collection of totem poles in the world in the
Ketchikan Totem Bight State Historical Park, Saxman Native Village
and the Totem Heritage Center Museum. Ketchikan has more cultural
sightseeing opportunities than most cities and towns in Alaska,
making it the perfect Alaskan getaway for those keen to experience
indigenous culture as well as the stunning natural landscapes of
Alaska.

Rustic Creek Street, with its picturesque wooden boardwalks and
stilts, was once the town's red light district, and today the
houses have been converted into restaurants, shops and galleries.
Ketchikan is located on Revillagigedo Island, 235 miles (378km)
south of Juneau. If staying in the capital, Ketchikan is a popular
excursion from the city; in fact, the quaint old town feels much
more authentic and traditional than the larger city. The town is a
popular cruise destination and is the starting point for most
Inside Passage tours. Excursions into the surrounding wilderness
include air or boat trips to nearby Misty Fjords, an area of
pristine, spectacular scenery with soaring cliffs, waterfalls,
lakes and glaciers.

Cruising Holkham Bay Glacier Fjords

Juneau, Alaska

Accessible only by sea or air, Alaska's 'Gateway to the
Glaciers' is the state's scenic capital, situated among spectacular
mountains on the shores of the Gastineau Channel. The holiday
destination of Juneau is, however, not as wild as one might expect
of such a remote destination. It affords all the pleasures of a
large city, while also offering an abundance of activities and
natural escapes for outdoor enthusiasts in its backyard. Although
the city is not without appeal and is a popular travel hub and port
of call for cruises, it is undoubtedly the natural setting that
attracts tourists rather than the urban sightseeing
opportunities.

In 1880 the city swarmed with gold prospectors, but today it is
the cruise ship passengers who pack the streets every summer,
enjoying the shopping, dining and picturesque surroundings.
Mendenhall Glacier, Alaska's most visited glacier due to its easy
access and proximity to the city, is a highly worthwhile
attraction. Glacier Bay National Park is one of the country's more
dramatic regions and is also accessible from Juneau, by boat or
plane. Helicopter rides, fishing, whale-watching, hiking and
kayaking are popular activities through which to fully appreciate
the vast wilderness surrounding Juneau.

Skagway, Alaska

The holiday destination of Skagway, at the northernmost point of
the Inside Passage, is the main port of call for cruise ships, and
was the trading post serving the Klondike Gold Rush in 1897. Within
three months, a tent and shack town of 20,000 people had sprung up
and throngs of hopeful gold-seekers stampeded the town, the
jumping-off point for the 500-mile (805km) trek to the goldfields
in the Yukon. Skagway's rapid growth brought in its wake disease
and violence, and it was notorious for lawless characters.

Today much of Skagway town lies within the Klondike Gold Rush
National Historic Park, which includes an excellent Visitor
Information Centre offering fascinating exhibits and a film on the
Gold Rush days. The heart of Skagway is the historic district where
the wooden boardwalks lining the restored buildings, false-fronted
shops and saloons, and the original appearance of many of the
houses, all enhance the character of a town rich in Gold Rush
history. On holiday in Skagway, it is also possible to follow in
the footsteps of the Klondike gold seekers along the famous 33-mile
(53km) Chilkoot Trail, literally an outdoor museum strewn with
reminders of the past, where abandoned pick axes, shovels and old
supplies can be found along the way.

Sitka, Alaska

Sitka is a city in Alaska, located on the west coast of Baranof Island. This quaint little city offers a variety of things to do, including fishing, kayaking, hiking and wildlife viewing. Sitka is also home to the Alaska Native Heritage Center, which is a great place to learn about the state's Native culture and history.

If you're looking for a unique place to visit in Alaska, Sitka is definitely worth a trip. This city has a lot to offer, from its beautiful scenery to its rich culture and history. We would definitely recommend spending a few days here if you have the chance.

Hilo, Hawaii

Hilo is a charming town located on the eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, in the United States. With its lush green landscapes, stunning waterfalls, black sand beaches, and rich cultural heritage, Hilo offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a tropical paradise.

One of the most notable attractions in Hilo is the Volcanoes National Park, home to the active Kilauea volcano. Visitors can explore the park's vast lava fields, hike through lush rainforests, and even witness the awe-inspiring sight of red-hot lava flowing into the ocean. The park also features informative visitor centers, scenic overlooks, and hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness.

Another must-visit spot is the stunning Wailuku River State Park, where travelers can marvel at the majestic Rainbow Falls. This 80-foot waterfall cascades down into a picturesque pool, creating dazzling rainbows in the misty air. The park also offers hiking trails and picnic areas where visitors can soak in the natural beauty and serene atmosphere.

Hilo is known for its beautiful beaches, and one of the most popular is Richardson's Beach Park. This palm-fringed, black sand beach is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with calm waters teeming with colorful tropical fish. Its shallow reef also offers great opportunities for beginners to try out snorkeling or immerse themselves in the vibrant underwater world.

For those interested in Hawaiian culture, the Hilo Farmers Market is a must-visit. Open daily, this vibrant marketplace offers a wide range of locally grown produce, arts and crafts, and traditional Hawaiian delicacies. Visitors can also find unique souvenirs, such as handmade jewelry and clothing, while experiencing the lively atmosphere and friendly spirit of Hilo.

Hilo is also home to several fascinating museums. The Lyman Museum and Mission House provides an in-depth look into the history, geology, and natural sciences of the Hawaiian Islands. It features exhibits on native Hawaiian artifacts, volcanic eruptions, and the impact of western missionaries on the local culture. The Pacific Tsunami Museum is another significant establishment, offering insights into the devastating 1946 and 1960 tsunamis that struck Hilo, as well as ongoing efforts to better understand and prepare for such natural disasters.

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures in and around Hilo. From hiking to waterfalls, exploring lava tubes, to bird watching, the surrounding areas offer a diverse range of landscapes and ecosystems waiting to be discovered.

Hilo is also known for its annual events and festivals, such as the Merrie Monarch Festival. Held every April, it is the most prestigious hula competition in the world, attracting dancers, musicians, and spectators from all over the globe. The festival showcases the beauty and cultural significance of this traditional Hawaiian dance and offers a truly authentic experience.

In terms of dining, Hilo offers a wide range of options. From local Hawaiian cuisine, featuring dishes like Kalua pork, laulau, and poi, to international flavors and fresh seafood, visitors can indulge in a culinary adventure that caters to all tastes and preferences. And to complement the delicious food, Hilo has several locally-owned coffee shops that serve some of the best Kona coffee in the world.

In terms of accommodation, Hilo has a range of options to suit various budgets and preferences. There are luxury resorts and hotels that offer stunning ocean views, as well as more budget-friendly options such as vacation rentals and bed and breakfasts.

With its natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality, Hilo is an enchanting destination that promises a truly unforgettable vacation experience. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper understanding of Hawaiian history and culture, Hilo has it all.

Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

When you visit Kailua-Kona, you'll be treated to some of the most beautiful scenery Hawaii has to offer. The azure waters of the Pacific Ocean contrast against the sandy beaches, and the backdrop of the lush green mountains is simply stunning.

There's plenty to do in Kailua-Kona, from soaking up the sun on the beach to exploring the many shops and restaurants. If you're looking for a little adventure, you can go snorkeling or scuba diving, or take a boat out to see the dolphins and turtles that call these waters home.

No matter what you choose to do, you're sure to have a memorable time when you visit Kailua-Kona.

Kahului-Maui, Hawaii

Billed as the 'land of opportunity', for more than 500 years, people have travelled to the United States of America seeking a better life. The territory was fought over by colonial powers for 300 hundred years, and finally won its independence from Britain in 1783.

Despite the near-annihilation of the Native American population, a bloody civil war, and centuries of ingrained racism (Native Americans were not granted citizenship until 1924 and racial segregation was the norm until as late as the 1950s), the American people have succeeded in forging one of the world's most democratic and tolerant nations. This has resulted in a fascinating melting-pot of cultures, and the undisputed military and economic heavyweight of the world.

A country of this size, with a history this colourful, truly does present endless opportunities for travellers heading stateside. World-famous attractions like the Statue of Liberty in New York City, Mount Rushmore in South Dakota, and the Grand Canyon in Arizona don't even begin to scratch the surface of what the US has to offer visitors.

Depending on where and when you travel, a holiday in the United States can offer sizzling desert mesas, labyrinthine cities, chilly snow-covered forests, tropical jungles, or rolling flower-covered prairies. With an area of roughly 3,794,083 square miles (9,826,630 square km), the US is the perfect place to take long road trips along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Pacific Coast Highway, or Route 66, gaining a broader understanding of this vast nation along the way.

Whether you want to see the celebrity stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the majestic summit of Pike's Peak, or the world's largest ball of twine in Darwin, Minnesota, the United States has something for everyone.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Nearly all of the millions of people who holiday in Hawaii each
year come to Honolulu. Home to the state's largest airport and its
largest port, Honolulu is the transport hub of Hawaii. Far from the
quiet and isolated resorts that many associate with the islands,
Honolulu is a bustling city of nearly a million people.

Honolulu is Hawaii in microcosm. Visitors can spend their
morning paddling a kayak or taking a surf lesson, shop 'til they
drop in the boutiques of the Ala Moana Center, and attend a luau or
take in a show at the Polynesian Cultural Center in the evening.
The city itself has many attractions, and visitors will enjoy
visiting the Waikiki Aquarium and Honolulu Zoo (both in Kapiolani
Park), peering into Diamond Head Crater, and having fun on one of
the many stunning beaches in Waikiki.

Honolulu is home to many excellent restaurants, a lively
nightlife, and enough souvenir shops to satisfy even the most avid
bargain-hunter. The hustle and bustle of the city may not be
everyone's idea of a romantic holiday in Hawaii, but a few days in
Honolulu is a must on any island getaway.