1
hiking instructors to be sure you are getting the
in the blistering heat, donning best instruction. for a simpler way to
hiking boots and a backpack may 3
canopy tours
of course, it can be a little frus-
trating spending all your time on explore sea, grab a snorkelling mask and
seem like the least attractive option, but it’s the ground when it seems like all the action flippers. the cayman islands and curaçao
often surprisingly cool up in the mountains, is taking place above your head. luckily, offer some of the most accessible dive and
under the shade of the thick green forest. a new eco-friendly sport is growing in snorkelling locations.
hikers will be rewarded with glimpses of popularity in countries like Jamaica, where
exotic creatures in their natural habitat: nearly 30% of the land is covered by forest.
jewel-like hummingbirds flitting from nest a network of catwalks and zip lines snakes
to flowers, fragile orchids and lush ferns trough the treetops, 148 ft above ground. 6
hotels
of course, eco-tourism isn’t only
for the adventure seekers. those
covering every square inch of real estate. tours can last anywhere from one to two who prefer to lie by the water’s edge and
and although hiking is generally about “the hours, and are usually suitable for ages 10 relax can still do their part in preserving
journey, not the destination,” many trails years and up. Safety is always the high- the environment. many hotels are upgrad-
often have rewarding sites at their end: a est concern, and helmets, harnesses, and ing their facilities to comply with “green”
pristine waterfall, a secret swimming hole, safety lines are standard. your hotel front standards. organizations like green globe
or a fabulous view of the area. adventurous desk can help you find the most reputable provide certification programs that help
travellers should seek out islands with local company. resorts gradually convert to more environ-
mountainous interiors, like Jamaica or mentally sound operating standards. even
grenada. tour companies offer package large chains like Superclubs and Sandals
deals, including transportation, guides, and are joining the movement. Small boutique
even food, making the entire experience 4
By the Sea
as fun as the forests can be, let’s
not forget that most people head hotels, like tiamo resorts in the Bahamas,
a little less gruelling. Besides, there’s no to the caribbean for the beaches! miles take it a step further, with low profile build-
better way to burn off the calories from that of sandy beaches line the coast, where ings and alternative energy sources. Visitors
open bar! island meets ocean. Dolphins and sea can relax, knowing their vacation is in har-
turtles seem happy to share their home mony with the beautiful surroundings.
2
Bird Watching with visitors, and playfully swim beside
the year-round warm weather sea kayaks and catamarans. kayaks are
and abundant food don’t just an excellent eco-friendly option, since they
attract tourists. tropical birds in every are quiet and light, with no motor to disturb 7
Volunteer work
for some eco-tourists, enjoy-
ing the natural environment isn’t
size and colour imaginable live on these the natural peace. kayaks can be rented enough. for people seeking to actively
islands, and many migratory birds choose from independent tour operators, but are help the environment they visit, there’s a
the caribbean for their winter “vacation”. it’s often available from the resort for little or no brand new trend: voluntourism. combining
not unusual for hotel guests to see parrots charge. once on the water, you can cover the adventure of travel with the bene-
and bananaquits peeking down from the a lot more “ground”, discovering hidden fits of volunteer work, this new genre of
trees. While a hike may offer a few glimpses coves and private beaches. tourism aims to improve community life.
of these feathered friends, the best tactic is placements vary from tropical fish surveys
to stake out one spot with a pair of binocu-
lars and wait. parks and nature reserves
offer richer habitat and better variety. the 5
Scuba Diving to organic farms, and can last anywhere
naturally exploring along the from five days to four months. a search
water’s edge will lead to deeper online will reveal plenty of tour operators,
Bahamas offer some of the richest habitat explorations below the surface. it’s no so do plenty of research to find the one
around, with each island home to unique surprise that this underwater world is just that’s right for you. keep in mind that the
species. Do a little research before hand to as bright as the scenery on land. Brightly caribbean offers many options for nature
find out when birds are nesting in the area. coloured corals create a festive looking lovers. air Jamaica can help you reach all
keep a journal of sightings and above all underwater landscape, teeming with life. of them, with awards winning service. to
be patient. tropical fish, sea stars, sting rays, moray explore these destinations and more, check
eels and turtles all call tropical caribbean online at airJamaica.com.
waters home. look for paDi certified dive
20 AIR JAMAICA ISLAND NEWS & NOTES
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