Anki On The Move: March 2013

The Biggest Baddest Bucketlist Challenge

12:09 PM

Listen to your heart By Gaurav Bhan

9:07 AM

Motorbiking in Northern Thailand

Once upon a time there was a small child, who used to spend hours, slowly rotating his pet globe
with his little fingers. Merely looking at the names of different places in the world gave him
adrenaline rushes. He wanted to know how these places looked, what kind of people lived there,
how far these places were and that how could he go there.

Video on Delhi at Biggest Baddest Bucket List by Gaurav
To vote for him Click here

He grew up to be an engineer, ready to face this world and live his ordinary life – ‘to the fullest’. He
was however, destined to follow his inner calling. He got an opportunity to travel to London and he
instantly knew travelling is what he always wanted to do.

Soaking feet in Hot Water Spring

It has been 4 years since he has been backpacking across the world. Join him as he shows us Delhi’s
culture, food, religion, art, history and its people. Watch the well known places as well as the secrets
of this city.

Uphill to Pang Ma Pha

There is always a little child, sitting quietly inside our hearts with his eyes waiting for us to discover him once again. Through his work and his conversations, our presenter wants to reach out to you and leave you with a question – ‘Who do you really want to be?’

Twitter: @dspunkytraveler
Website: http://www.the-spunky-traveler.blogspot.com

If you think you are a traveler,who got stories to share,memories to pen down,photographs to excite us or videos to take us through your place or simply inspire everyone to travel more,write to me at ankionthemove@gmail.com with subject "My Travel Inspiration".If you do not travel,and know somebody who does,you can also write a post on her behalf addressing the person..it could be just anyone.

Example: Quit your job to travel,or in the job to travel?Reasons why you do not travel as you would want to?What makes you travel?Traveled to any place we know less about,or any place we know only in theories?Been to Thailand,but not on packages?Been to Europe backpacking..Tried an interesting adventure sports.

Share your experiences with your blog and twitter link,and I might just spread the word around.

As you inspire more people to travel,more people just travel more..

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Kate Bracks:Winner Masterchef,Indian Visit

7:11 AM

We seldom know people who are famous,perceiving them as famous.But there are some who remain grounded,some who don't speak calculated truths or give fake smiles.They are there,just like us,but famous.One such is Kate Bracks.

The lovely Kate smiling all the way

Kate in a green sari

Kate Bracks was the winner of the third series of MasterChef Australia,the mother of three children lives in Orange and was previously a school teacher.She's a charming vibrant lady and her expressions speaks the passion for cooking with intensity that can lit several fireworks or may be the kitchenette of India and the world together.For all those who do not know her,lets have a quick recap on her win:

Video on Kate Bracks Masterchef win

It was my rare opportunity to witness the gala event,invited by Sameeksha and Seema as part of media invite.So I was there,standing in front,taking pictures all the way from the start to the end.Inorbit mall,Bangalore was where the event was happening.That was where I met Praveen from Wooplr,an online shopping recommendation website.I have fallen in love with Wooplr several times,and whenever I think about my shopping needs or where to shop,I look around wooplr with search as "Bangalore" and whoa,I get real recommendations on where to buy what and for much!Earlier I used to ask my friends,but now with the technology things have become simpler,easier.

Kate Bracks came at around 5 in a resplendent green sari,all bubbly and jovial with the new garment she was wearing.She told it isn't that difficult to carry a sari,rather easy and she is loving it.Then was the introduction of the chef and later the program commenced.

One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.

I secretly wanted to steal every recipe of her,and try and test in my small Kitchen.She spoke like a professor in cooking,she knew what we get in India,what we don't.So if we don't get hazelnuts,we can add almonds,peanuts accompanied by their respective oils.She knew what to do to make a dish delicious and what to do when the bottom of the baking pan burns(it happens with cakes,lot of time ;)). She knew everything which an expert cook would know,but contrary to some of us who are born with a passion of cooking,she wasn't. She developed the passion with the support of her husband and her children and her mother.

Here's a sweet peek-a-boo into her journey to Master chef and her visit to India,her comfort food,how she handles pressure,and how she tried Halwa.She's also an inspiration to those who do not fill up contest forms,thinking they won't win.People win when they really put their hearts into it and the live example is Kate Bracks.

Video on Kate Bracks Visit To India

At the end of the event,was the cool question answer round session where some of the lucky few got a chance to put forward their questions and received gift hampers.One lucky person won a weekend stay for two at the luxury hotel.

In 2012 she released her first cookbook “The Sweet Life”.

Here's a quick glance through what she says about her cookbook.

During the event, Mr. Indraneel Majumdar, General Manager of Inorbit mall said “Nothing can be better than hosting an international celebrity, especially a MasterChef. I am glad Kate could come to Inorbit mall and give some basic culinary tips to people who are passionate about cooking. Cooking is an art and Kate has brought an international artistic flavor to the mall and to the audience. I am delighted that she was able to engage our mall visitors with her infectious enthusiasm.”

You can connect with her at
Website: http://katebracks.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/kate_bracks
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KateBracks

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The Serai Chikmagalur:Bloggers,Review,Women's Day

1:18 AM

Women's Day:The Serai Way

“A witty woman is a treasure; a witty beauty is a power.”

Charles Malik in his quotes on Women's Day very aptly said "The fastest way to change society is to mobilize the women of the world".The mobilization has to begin in our own corners.We celebrate all the occasions "Father's day,Mother's day,Valentine's day,Brother's day,Sister's day but we seldom celebrate a day to womanhood in spite of us having a women's day.We take it as just another day . Rohita informed a group of bloggers of different genres,that this time she promises us the time of our lives when we celebrate women's day with the most creative women on earth...well ,if not on earth then yes on the land of emerging geniuses in Bangalore.That's when we realized how important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes(which we do) and our she-roes(which we did)!

Bloggers Day Out At The Serai Chikmagalur

Me Drawing after years...after a word of inspiration from Alicia ;)

We were to assemble at the CCD Square near UB City at around 7:30 am on a cool breezy Friday morning.It was my first visit to the CCD Square,a huge CCD outlet across UB City.First came Swapna(Food Blogger) with her two bags,I quickly realized I know her,but not that much,because of the fact that we have had met only once at the Four Seasons Meet.A cute dimple,and yes she was the one who I met before but do not remember.

She quickly glanced through,and was surprised that I just have one school bag while she has two.Later she confessed,its because of the laptop and the camera,that she had to carry another.

Then came Alicia,and I was a little surprised to see another familiar face.I had met Alicia(Illustrator) at Tanishq Mia on Wheels event first time.She had a small box with her,and again it was me who was carrying barely no luggage.I confess,I was at that time thinking "Did I miss something,if everyone's being a fashionista,then I have no clothes that make me look gorgeous,I had clothes which I generally wear,and what if next arrives fashion bloggers all dressed tip to toe like a fashionista".Then came Margeret and Tanisha,we all were more than surprised to have Margeret in our team of bloggers.A 62 year old,and unless she told us her age,we thought she's a charming lady in her 40's.Tanisha(Food + architecture blogger) was equally sweet.Then came Smrithi(Fashion blogger),and wow the third hit,I met her at the Tanishq event before.Then came Imsu(Fashion blogger),Manvi(Fashion blogger) and Rohita and Deepika(organizers).We were in total 10-11 ladies,what a gang.We ordered our breakfast and then we were all set for the journey of 5 hours,to Chikmagalur.

The journey was long,so we slept,watched "Jab we met" and slept again.Some of us,clicked pictures of each other while we were sleeping.Finally the big gate opened and we were there at the Serai.The Serai,at Chikmagalur was an experience in itself.The welcome was truly refreshing,we were all welcomed with tika on our forehead and garland on us.

We then had a refreshing drink,and we slowly stood up to view the view which we seldom see in India.In front of us was

" A superb view of an infinite pool,the villas resembling huts from a distance,and at the end was the horizon of Chikmagalurian mountains smiling at each of our awestruck faces"

We took a quick around the Serai,to know where is what.At one side was the numerous option of indoor games,at the other side was the spa.At one side was the shop with blings and other things,at other side was the dining area.At one side was the excitement in our hearts,at other side was the surprise.Yes,a surprise,that awaited us beautifully that night.We quickly headed onto our rooms,after a brief introduction and reintroduction to each other.My roommate was Manvi. The moment we opened our room with our keys,we were kind of relaxed.Wow what a place,was on each of our minds.We chose not to speak to each other,for a few minutes,loving each moment that made the place so heavenly.

The huge wash rum was an added bonus.It also had an open shower.In front of our rooms was a separate pool.The place was romantic,incredibly romantic.

The Night Surprise,The Serai Chikmagalur

“A living poem" had always been the words that came to mind when he tried to describe her to others.”

Next was our surprise.What do you call an arrangement done with candles,wines, barbecue and subtle hint of lighting along the poolside.It is one of the beautiful moments,when our giggles, synchronize with every tasty bite of food.Then came the discussion,the cycles,are we all going cycling tomorrow I didn't wanted to,this time,I wanted to be slow and sleepy in my soft cushion bed,and not wake up at 6 to cycle.So I said no,but a few gals did go for their own cycling adventure next morning.When we woke up,I quickly headed onto the next room number to check on the ladies how fun was cycling.And to my surprise 4 of them were in the pool in front of their rooms,chatting and giggling,and discussing random stuff.

We went to have the nutritious breakfast and lunch.This was a pleasant change from the usual.We then went to have our coffee and snacks at the rear end of the resort(a garden with a tent in middle).And then was our chocolate making session.Do you know how to make home made chocolates?We didn't but when we got to know all the process in front of our eyes,it wasn't that difficult.So next time when I have a party at home,I am gonna make my own chocolates ;).Rohita,me,Alicia,Smriti and Swapna,we went to the in house shopping store where Rohita fell for a yellow pair of sandals.The collection was versatile.The day ended on discussion on dogs,cats and other things.Yes,we all have something in common,we are all animal lovers

The Tractor Ride of our Dreams,Chikmagalur

A Very Happy Get-together

Next day was our trip to CCD plantations.When we sip our coffee at the CCD outlets,we do not care what goes into the process of the making.A few of the gals did yoga(yes yoga ;) ) in the morning.We then head onto the CCD plantations,and the most amazing tractor ride till date.I often had a dream of hopping into one of those hay filled Bollywood laden trucks going nowhere.Each one of us hopped into backside of a tractor,and then was the tipsy curvy journey in the plantations spread on the mountains.At one time,was the huge scream on an almost vertical dip,and we almost falling on each other in the truck,the other time,we were busy saving our head from the bushes,leaves and the trees.We then stopped at one of the water holes,and enjoyed crossing and walking the small stream of water.Came back,and we drank the cool nariyal pani. Then was the how to make coffee session from CCD.

The coffee beans are dried and roasted,till it becomes almost black,and gives out a fresh coffee aroma.We then add chicory,and blend.The whole process is very well described in Alicia D Souza's cute illo :).The taste was surprisingly very different and fresh.

Alicia cute ILLO on bean to cup.Check out her page for many more such

We took the same tractor and were back.By this time,we were all tired,and wanted to sleep.But how can we sleep without the dip in the infinity pool.The pool that was blue,the pool that wanted us to be there,inside.So there we all go in the super cool pool..

When you are tired,a spa can only make you feel reborn.And that's what it did.Next was the Oma spa.A wow experience.We went for our dinner,and today we had live music.The gentlemen sang for us songs in Hindi,English,Romantic Songs,Akon songs,and danced.We didn't wanted it all to end,it was just a dreamy world out here,unlike what we live everyday.

Bye Bye Serai,Chikmagalur

Next day was Faiza ready with her camera,all set to click our pictures. Faiza took shots which speaks,every angle measured,every location hunted,and she like a diva,made us all a super diva.We all had our group picture ,and then we all were ready to go into the same old world.

Faiza captures a sweet moment of mine

Yes,with a promise that we'll all stay connected,lets see.

/*The pictures above are taken by Faiza Sheikh and Me.Reproduction of image in whole or part on internet is prohibited .Pictures are compressed for better page load*/

Bloggers who were part of the celebration are

1)Faiza : Republic Of Chic
Republic Of Chic is a daily webzine dedicated to fashion/style.

2)Alicia: Alicia Souza Page
Alicia Souza is an illustrator and she draws for a living.

3)Imsurenla: As I Like It
Full time business student,Retail enthusiast, Online shopaholic,Aspiring marketing executive,Occasional musician.

4)Smrithi: Vintage Obsession
Her personal sense of style , People ,Places both virtual an real

5)Swapna: Food For Swaps
“I would like the food and photography to do the talking”-Says Swapna

6)Tanisha: Fudge Together
Architecture and Amazing Food shots.This blog is pretty much everything.

7)Margaret : Margaret's Home
After twenty-two years of working in Human Resources at the World Bank in Washington, D.C., I am embarking on a new journey of taste, smell, and sight, through the culinary arts. - Says Margaret

8)Manvi: Styleinked
Style Inked is your guide to personal fashion written by Manvi Gandotra. Read on and get the latest fashion ideas, tips, DIYs, how-tos and more

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Bangalore Mountaineering Club:Overview,Interview,Trips

8:30 AM

Gud Morning Dear Travelers And Adventure Lovers,

Keeping in mind,that there are so many adventure sports enthusiasts,travelers as well as new genres of youngsters all set to make India and the world happy and safe,I have started with "Monday Candid Interview Mornings" where we grill( ;) ) each of those who made it!

This week we have..

"Neeraj Malve"

Neeraj Malve gets candid with Ankionthemove about all things adventurous and the journey with Bangalore Mountaineering Club(BMC) so far......!!!

Neeraj Malve's(right side)"Sign of Victory" at Everest Base Camp,May 2011

Neeraj Malve

Neeraj Malve is the head of BMC. Bangalore Mountaineering Club was founded on 27th May 2004 as a community based organization for enthusiastic adventurers. BMC organize various adventures like: Paragliding, Scuba diving, Horse riding, Trekking, Rock climbing, Camping, White water rafting etc

Trek To Shingani Gudda, Sept 2009

Can you brief us a little more about what you do?

I am an IT Engineer by profession and passionate adventurer & traveler from childhood who keep seeking opportunities to get away from day to day life to explore the unseen world.

Children's Day Out At Children's day charity event Nov 2010

Tell us something about yourself. What was your motivation behind not choosing a main stream career? What was the reaction of your family and friends when you told them about the business idea? Were they supportive?

Yes I am into mainstream career work as a full time IT Professional. It was never a business idea, I got into it accidentally. From my school days I used to go out on hiking up mountains and forests with friends. When I moved to Bangalore in 2003 I kind of got into “Bangalore way” of stress busters – movies, malls, pubs. But it couldn’t sustain for long. Thirst of mountains and forest was still developing; I had to struggle for one year, as I didn’t get like-minded friends or any club, community to join. That led to birth of BMC. Parents were always encouraging knowing my love towards such activities. BMC gave me few real good friends who not only encouraged but also supported in building the BMC.

                                  Sakleshpur Railway Track Trek

What were the problems that you faced in the initial stages of the project and how did you overcome them?

The idea was not well accepted by few of my well-wishers due to risks factors, that helped me take adequate precautions for myself and the group. I used to have language problem in Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, but since it’s a group activity we always get volunteers to become a spokes person in respective languages.

In your opinion what is it that makes you different from your competitors?

Our weekend fixed departures makes different from competitors. Our competitors conduct activities but expect clients to make their own groups. Where as BMC welcome even individual to join our programs.

Paragliding Training Program : 2007,2009

What’s your vision with regards to travel and adventure?

Making Adventure Tourism reach to common men/women is our vision. Adventure tourism was a lifestyle of particular set of people and in last 9 years we have contributed a lot to make activities like trekking, camping, scuba diving, paragliding easily accessible to newbies who doesn’t know where and how to start

Your venture is an inspiration for many people who want to chase their dreams and do what they like even if it is out of their league. What would you like to say to them?

More than having right business model its important to be passionate about the idea. In the initial phase till the venture is self-sustained its important to learn each and every area than being dependent on hired skills.

Twitter: @bmcindia
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bmcindia
Website: http://www.bmcindia.org/

Neeraj a Dedication for your Hard Work for over 8 years :)

Anki S Thanks Neeraj Malve for the candid chat.

You might also like
Archana Sardana : The Skydiver Biography
The Backpacker Co : Biography
Cdr Arun Patil Dive Goa : Interview
Rashi Narang: Heads Up For Tails

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Kayaking:How To,India,Worldwide

11:08 AM

What is Kayaking?

First Hand Experience At Recreational Kayaking

Kayaking is the use of a Kayak for moving across water.At Flameback Lodges Mudigere India,I did my first recreational Kayaking in a double seated Kayak.Kayaking and Canoeing are also known as paddling.

Kayak vs. Canoe
To Know more in detail : Wikihow:Difference Between Kayak and Canoe

The difference between Kayaking and Canoeing are the number of people seated in the boat,the paddles and the seating position.

Types of Kayaking

My First Attempt At Kayaking

White Water Kayaking : Whitewater kayaking involves taking a kayak down rapids, weirs and waterfalls.

Recreational Kayaking : Recreational kayaking is ideal for individuals looking for a low impact recreational experience that can be done on ponds, lakes and slow moving rivers.

Sea Kayaking : Sea kayaking, also referred to as ocean kayaking or touring, involves taking kayaks out on to the ocean or other open water such as a lake.

How To Kayak

How To Kayak Steps

This is one of the best videos I found on Internet,on how to Kayak.It practically teaches you the basic steps,so guys have a look before you start

White Water Kayaking in India:Rivers & Sites

For More Details visit :
Thrillophilia Top 5 Kayaking Destinations
SlideShare Top 5 Kayaking Destinations
How Stuff Works Kayaking

1)Shivpuri & Brahmapuri,Rishikesh

The 12 km kayaking expedition in Rishikesh begins at Brahmapuri. It is a 2 day trip advised for beginner Kayakers to learn and experience first hand,the dangers rapids hold.

2)Brahmaputra,Arunachal

The Brahmaputra river expedition starts at Tuting where theTsang Po River of Tibettransforms into the SiangRiver of Arunachal Pradeshand ends atDibrugarh, between whichthere are a plethora of highlevel rapids for kayakers.It is a whole 15 day trip

3)Subansari River,Arunachal

The subansari river is thebiggest tributary of theBrahmaputra. This can be completed in around 10 days. It has grade3+ rapids and is a good wayfor rafting enthusiasts with alittle experience to tackle a bitbigger challenge

4)Zanskar River,Ladakh

This 12 day trip is reallyworth the physical toll on eexperiences when it comes to the adrenaline rush and alsothe pristine nature thatenvelops the river. It has several rapids ranging indifferent levels

5)Kali River,Karnataka

River in Karnataka is perfect for amateur rafter and kayakers. There are plenty of rapids and plenty of nature to keep everybody hooked. It’s agreat place to learn the basics of kayaking and understand the waves better.

Canoeing in India:Rivers,Sites

1)Canoeing,Uttaranchal

Some of the suitable areas in Uttaranchal for Canoeing are Rishikesh, Dakpathar and the Ramganga in Corbett National Park.

2)Canoeing,Jammu & Kashmir

J&K Kayaking and Canoeing Association in collaboration of the J&K Sports Council and the Departments of Youth Services and Sports and Tourism had recently introduced Kayaking & Canoeing tournament in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. This is another event that is becoming popular amongst the people and the tourists in Jammu & Kashmir. The tournament takes place in Srinagar and works as a platform for the popularising water sports athletics.

3 day National Kayaking & Canoeing Tournament J & K

White water canoeing has wide possibilities in Lidder, Sindh, Drass, Suru, Indus, Zanskar, Chenab, etc.

3)Canoeing,Udaipur

The National Level Kayaking & Canoeing Tournament, was on 8th Nov at Udaipur.It was also held at Ulsoor Lake in Bangalore.

4)Canoeing In Darjeeling

White Water Canoeing, which are comparatively new in the Darjeeling Hills was introduced in year 1991. Since then this sport has gained immense popularity compelling DGHC Tourism to take up the sport in a very big way. The turbulent waters of the Rangeet with its multidimensional rapids provide adventure lovers with a variation meant for professionals

Some other Places where you can go for Canoeing in India are
Lake Paradise, Nanital; Dal Lake, Srinagar; Manasbal Lake, Srinagar; Nagin Lake, Srinagar; Mumbai.

Sea Kayaking:Sites

1)Lakshwadeep : Lakshadweep is one of the best places for water sport activities including Kayaking

2)Andamans: Experience the perfect calm and the astounding silence with a kayaking trip through the mangrove treasures of Havelock Island. It is serene, picturesque and a great work out too!

Who Does Kayaking in India?

Rishikesh

http://www.kayakindia.com/

http://www.adventurehimalaya.org/watersports.asp

http://www.katabatic.co.in/team/

Goa

http://www.niws.nic.in/

http://www.goakayaking.com/

Lakshwadeep

http://www.lakshadweeptourism.com/tourpackages.html

Andamans

http://www.barefootholiday.com/page/kayaking

The Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Association

http://www.ikca.in/technical-coaches.html

Kayaking Schools Worldwide

More details on Kayaking Courses Worldwide

1)Panjim,Goa India

National Institute of Watersports is running a kayaking classroom training course/program in Panjim, or it has provided such training courses/programs before.

http://www.niws.nic.in/

2)Isle of Wight, United Kingdom

UKSA’s dinghy fleet is renewed on a regular basis and typically includes the latest boats from Laser.Enjoy being taught by highly experienced instructors

http://www.uksa.org/

3)Pune,Maharashtra India

Inland windsurfing and sailing academy conducts Windsurfing,Sailing and Kayaking workshops

http://www.windsportspune.com

4)Campbell River, British Columbia, Canada

Exploring some of the tidal rapids on the east coast of Quadra Island. Students will learn the dangers and difficulties of tidal currents in Sea Kayaking

http://www.colt.bc.ca/

5)Boston, Massachusetts, United States

On this 12-day course join 9 new friends and your instructors on a sea kayak adventure in the Boston Harbor Islands National Park Area.

http://www.thompsonisland.org/

6)Broome, Australia

You’ll begin your sea kayaking adventure in the waters surrounding the Dampier Archipelago, a group of 42 rocky islands offering scrubby eucalyptus valleys and isolated coral reefs.

http://www.nols.edu/

7)Balmaceda, Chile

While sea kayaking in Patagonia, you’ll encounter a variety of spectacular environments, from remote picturesque valleys with views of glaciated peaks to the wet and verdant coast. You may also have a chance to meet the people who inhabit the rugged land of Patagonia.

http://www.nols.edu/

Coming up next:Top 10 Kayaking Destinations in the world,Events & World Kayaking Championships

Folks and Friends,if you love my blog do not forget to vote for me at the BBE ,Click on the banner below.Click on vote,Fill in your email id,approve it from the email in your inbox,and voila! You have got me a little on top

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Hello from Flameback Mudigere

5:47 PM

Everyone can identify with beauty of sunset, with the quiet of nature, with a warm and cozy cottage.

Flameback lodges in Chikmagalur is one of a kind.A traveler,whose life is his passion.10 Years back he did all India Road trip on his Bike,conquering the mighty Himalayas.7 years he worked in an hippy Goan island resort,after which he worked in collaboration with several adventure sports companies and landed up in a serene Mudigere district resort Flameback Lodges owned by Kartikeya Ghorpade.

Sharing Travel Stories

Regular into off roading,rallies and parties,his dream is to help our countrymen conserve nature.So dedicated he is to the cause,that he plans to guide and educate his own folks,and folks like us who cross paths.He is into his 7 German Shepard, trekking,sports,birding,you name it and he is into it.Casual and cool in his own style,this offbeat engineer is going to be with us in Flameback Lodges and you'll soon discover how ;)

Ever thought of waking up to paddy fields,or a view with a lake?There are some places in India which will surprise you,if not anything else.These are hidden gems,we rarely know about.And why don't we?Because for us the idea of luxury is the closed door multiplex resembling resorts.Not anymore thou. Flameback Lodges takes you back to the time when you would be energized to feel the environment.

Going green literally

Do you know?The coffee we have,is the coffee we grow!And the coffee we grow is the coffee we love.That what we eat sometimes taste so different when not processed.Flameback lodges arranges trips to coffee plantations as part of outdoor activities

You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave

Kayaking row left and right,and watching the sun shine in the light,there is so much to do here,so much to see.

I promise soon I take you to more detail about Flameback Lodges.Till then,keep dreaming about the possibilities!