Are you about to be married within the next year or two? If so, have you started planning your honeymoon yet? As important as honeymoons are, there are many couples who tend to place the most focus on their actual wedding. The good news is that you can easily do both. You can do this with the purchase of a Hawaii honeymoon vacation package. Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages are ideal for soon to be newlyweds. In fact, there are an unlimited number of benefits to paying for your Hawaiian honeymoon in the form of a Hawaii honeymoon vacation package.

Perhaps, before examining the benefits of purchasing a Hawaii honeymoon vacation package, you may want to know a little bit more about these packages. Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages are like most traditional vacation packages. Many times, the only difference is that the included accommodations have a focus on honeymoons or at least romantic getaways. For instance, it is not uncommon to find Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages that include oceanfront rentals or vacation home rentals. If honeymoon vacation packages include hotel or resort accommodations, there is a good chance that those accommodations will likely be luxury in nature.

As with traditional vacation packages, Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages tend to include a number of different accommodations and travel arrangements. These accommodations and arrangements may include, but should be limited to, overnight accommodations, car rentals, and airline reservations. With Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages it is also common to find special honeymoon activities included. For instance, a large number of Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages include romantic guided boat tours, scuba diving lessons, or theater plays. What is nice about all of these accommodations is that they are accommodations that you will likely need or want to use; therefore, you are, almost always, spending your money wisely when purchasing a Hawaii honeymoon vacation package.

Speaking of saving money, you will find that Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages are reasonably priced. As with most traditional vacation packages, Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages are offered at a discounted price. The amount of money that you can save on your Hawaii honeymoon will all depend on the type of honeymoon vacation package you choose to purchase and where you purchase it from. Regardless of where you choose to purchase your Hawaii honeymoon vacation package from, there is a good chance that you will save some money. Whether you end up saving fifty dollars or two hundred dollars, there is a good chance that you will enjoy the money saved. After all, everyone wants to have the honeymoon of their dreams, but that honeymoon shouldn’t have to break the bank.

In addition to saving money, you can also save yourself a fairly large amount of time by making your honeymoon reservations through the purchase of a Hawaii honeymoon vacation package. That is because, as previously mentioned, Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages tend to include a number of accommodations. With a vacation package, even a honeymoon one, you only need to pay one large sum for most of your honeymoon arrangements, such as your overnight accommodations and your airfare. If you do not purchase a honeymoon vacation package, there is a good chance that you would have to make all of your honeymoon reservations separately. While it is always possible to do so, you may find it quite time consuming.

If you are looking to save time and money, there is a good chance that you may be interested in purchasing a Hawaii honeymoon vacation package. If so, you are advised to start examining the packages that are available online. These packages are most commonly sold through online travel websites, including Hawaiian travel websites.

Sheryl Walters
http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/hawaii-honeymoon-vacation-packages-why-you-should-purchase-one-94838.html

Matt Butcher is thirty three years old and hails from Essex, UK. After quitting his job at London’s, Stansted International Airport, where he was employed as an operations controller for a handling company (a high stressed job with very little reward), Matt decided to leave England in search of a fresh challenge and to pursue his dream of becoming a diving instructor and it is in Thailand where he has been living and working for the last six years.

Matt first came on holiday to Thailand in 1993; he immediately fell in love with the country and its people vowing one day to return. Matt did return to Thailand in 2000, and it was on Phi Phi where he first leant to dive -Koh Phi Phi is situated in the Andaman Sea between Phuket and Koh Lanta. After discovering for himself the underwater delights that diving offered, he decided that he wanted to progress his dive skills and knowledge; and eventually after much studying became a full time Padi Open Water Diving Instructor.

Matt is one of the most famous Scuba divers in Thailand if not the whole of South East Asia, if only for his misfortune. Here in his very first interview; he tells us about living and working in Thailand, what it’s like to dive with huge Mantas Rays and Whalesharks, life as a videographer and his true love for Moray eels.

Hi Mat, why did you choose Phi Phi Island as the place where you would learn to dive, there must be closer places to home than Thailand?

I chose Phi because it is a great place to dive as well as a great holiday destination. The water temp is always around 30 degrees; there are lots to see like Sharks, Turtles, and other interesting stuff. Phi Phi is also a nice place to live and work, it’s has a small community where there is always something going on, it’s also a great place to party. I did my open water and advanced courses on Phi Phi, then travelled to Koh Tao for my rescue and Divemaster courses. As far as the quality of diving goes Phi Phi wins hands down, there is just much to see.

Have you ever dived in the UK? If not, why not?

No. The main reason, I guess, is that I’m not too keen on the idea of diving in cold water. I like coral reefs, colorful fish, good visibility, and being able to dive in just a pair of board shorts. I’ve never used a dry suit and don’t really fancy it. Saying that, maybe one day I wouldn’t mind trying some hardcore ice diving.

So, you really do not think you will be returning back to work in England any time soon then?

It’s very unlikely. Two weeks a year in the UK is enough for me. Thailand’s my home these days and I’m happy here; I live here with my Thai girlfriend and our young daughter.

What’s it like working on a paradise Island like Phi Phi, is that the place where the filmed the movie The Beach?

A4: Working on Phi Phi is great, everything is close by and everyone knows everyone. Workers get discounts in bars and restaurants, and life is generally good. I like the fact there are no roads, cars, or motorbikes. The downside about staying on Phi Phi is that it is getting quite expensive, especially when it comes to renting rooms and bungalows. For the monthly rent you pay on Phi Phi for a basic room with a bed and a fan, you could easily get a two or three bedroom house in Phuket, and Phuket isn’t exactly cheap. It was after The Beach was filmed that prices shot up, people just became too greedy.

Have you worked anywhere else in Thailand, if so where?

I am very lucky as my job takes me to the Similans islands and Phuket dive sites.

Phuket, wow, what’s the diving like there?

The diving is surprisingly good. I was pleasantly surprised when I first dived in Phuket after years on Phi Phi. The visibility is usually good, and we are always seeing cool stuff like Manta Rays at Racha Noi.

Have the recent problems at Bangkok airport affected tourism where you are?

Yes, it’s pretty quite at moment. I just hope they can sort out the political problems soon. It seems that which ever side is elected the other side cannot accept it and they throw their toys out of their cots and start causing trouble. It has to stop. If some people cannot accept a democratically elected government, elected by a majority, maybe they should take the privilege away, though where that may lead to is a scary thought.

You mentioned the Similan Islands before, where exactly are they?

They are about six hours north of Phuket by boat. Or like many do, you can travel by bus to Khao Lak (a beautiful beach resort 50 minutes north of Phuket International airport) from there you go to Tab la mo port and the journey is a bout 2 hours in a speed boat.

Apparently these are some of the best dive sites in the world; can you elaborate on them please?

The great thing about the Similans is that it’s a protected marine park. The visibility is usually excellent, and there are some pristine coral reefs which teem with fish. There’s also a huge variety of dive sites to choose from, some gently sloping coral reefs, some with massive boulder formations.

What is your favorite dive site and why?

I like a lot of them. Elephant Head Rock is cool, it’s easy to find Sharks there; well it is if you know where to look. Three Trees has some great corals and a lot of fish, but my favorite sites are just north of the Similans, like Koh Bon, I have had some wicked dives with Mantas Rays there, and Richelieu Rock (the most famous dive site in Thailand), as I’ve seen quite a few Whalesharks there.

So now you have become a videographer? You must have some amazing footage.

Yeah I’ve got a few external drives full of good stuff.

What is your favorite sea creature and why?

Probably Manta Rays, they always take my breath away when I see them gliding past they are just so graceful, the boat is always buzzing after a Manta sighting.

Everybody who comes to dive in Thailand wants to see a Whaleshark or Manta Ray how many have you seen?

I have seen more than 100 Manta Rays and seven or eight Whalesharks. I saw two Whalesharks on a single dive once at Hin Muang.

Is it true you once had a close encounter with a Moray Eel, what happened?

There used to be a famous Moray called Scarface at East of Eden in the Similans and a lot of instructors and dive guides would take food down for her, and feed her in front of their guests. I was careless one day, and wasn’t paying attention when I was removing food from a plastic bag. Scarface came around behind me, could smell the food, and accidentally latched onto my thumb. I tried to prize her jaws open and get her off me but it was no good. Within seconds there was a sickening popping sound and my thumb was bitten clean off. She swam away and that was the last I saw of my thumb. It was my fault, firstly for feeding a wild animal, and secondly for being careless. My dive buddy Bex was holding my camera and managed to get some footage of it happening.

You mean you have video footage of it? Can you tell us about the operation?

After several months when the wound healed and the Doctors were happy that there was no infection, I flew up to one of the best hospitals in Bangkok; where a specialist hand micro surgeon amputated one of my second toes and attached it to my hand. In an operation which lasted over six hours, he connected all the nerves, blood vessels, and tendons. Now I have a new thumb, which is almost as good as the old one. I can feel it, and move it like a real thumb.

Did it not put you off diving?

Not at all, I was back in the water less that a month after having the operation. Why would it put me off? It was an accident.

How do other people react when you tell them the story?

These days I don’t mention it, unless someone asks. They’re usually quite amazed at how normal my toe / thumb looks.

I heard this story in a dive shop in Koh Tao (another Thai Island) how do you deal with the fame?

It’s not something to be proud of really, and it’s not really fame. Not many people know it was me, and I like to keep it that way.

Would you feed Moray Eels again or have you learnt your lesson?

Well, I used to love feeding her, but no, I wouldn’t do it again. It’s not really a good idea to feed marine life, it’s not natural, and with animals like Morays and Sharks especially, they can start associating scuba divers with food. Accidents can happen.

When and where will your next dive be?

My next dives will be tomorrow at Koh Doc Mai and Anemone Reef near Phuket. I head up to the Similans in a few days for a week or so.

Well good luck Matt, take care and Thank you for talking to us!

Jason Butler
http://www.articlesbase.com/scuba-diving-articles/thumbs-up-to-diving-in-phi-phi-thailand-708140.html

To recycle a tired old cliché, delightful things often come in diminutive packages. Surveying the Caribbean, there are many islands to choose from that convey a message of exoticism, relaxation and jaw-dropping beauty that make your hometown landscape seem black and white in comparison, and some of these islands are easier to spot than others. When deciding on your next island vacation, don’t overlook St. John; it’s relatively tiny but packs a big punch and does an incredible job of making you feel like you’re far, far away.

Much of St. John’s allure revolves around the fact that two thirds of the island is pure, untouched nature. Protected by the United States as designated national park land, these hills, valleys, forests and beaches are untainted and lush, brimming with wildlife and Technicolor beauty. This is the smallest of the US Virgin Islands, but once you set foot on the soil of this impressive place you’ll be convinced that 28 square miles is more than enough to make your getaway supremely satisfying.

Tours led by knowledgeable guides will acquaint you with the sights of the island, or if you’re feeling adventurous you can head out on your own and just let the peaceful ambiance overcome you. Whether you’re nestled into a jeep or walking along the path with no particular itinerary in mind, this will be a good first activity to get you in the vacation mood, if you’re still hanging on to that last bit of stress, that is.

The beaches are the best part about St. John. From scenic Rams Head to the white sandy wonderland that is Trunk Bay, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled onto a very well-kept secret as you survey the scene. That’s another plus; crowds tend to be thinner here than in other Caribbean isles, perhaps because it’s tucked away from the main thoroughfare or maybe people just don’t know what they’re missing. Either way, it’s to your advantage. Enjoy the beaches without feeling trampled upon, and pretend like you’ve escaped to your own tailor-made hideaway in the clear blue ocean.

The run-through isn’t over yet; we’ve yet to visit the place nicknamed Love City. Cruz Bay is a little more action packed than St. John’s other spots, as it is the home of shops, grocery stores, gear and jeep rental services and restaurants. This will be the home base for your scuba diving adventures, and where you can stock up on souvenirs and staples to take back to your vacation rental. Don’t expect a bustling city atmosphere or anything, but it gets the job done in a pleasingly laid-back way.

The climate and conditions of St. John make it ideal for plant growth, and a common activity involves taking a flower tour. Heavenly orchids dot the hills, century plants add a sense of time and history, and the Red Ginger’s ruby color will cause you to continually marvel at its vibrancy. Hibiscus, prickly pear cactus, Hanging Heliconia and the Bananaquit, the official bird of the island, will all delight your senses as you meander through the wonderful world of St. John.

In addition to all of this, there are boat tours, horseback riding, windsurfing, fishing, surfing and paragliding to keep you busy. Many visitors find it not only worthwhile but ideal to snag a St. John Vacation Rental that will make your home away from home as comfortable as possible. If you’re taking the time to traipse all the way to the Caribbean for what is certainly a hard-earned vacation, you may as well treat yourself to a well-rounded and pampering experience on all fronts. Vacation rentals allow for the possibilities of breakfast in bed, cocktails on your private patio, naps in the middle of the afternoon, and short strolls to the beach, among other things. Seeing this island through the windows of a cute cottage on the shoreline or a fabulous Oceanside villa will make this dreamy vacation even dreamier, so at least check out the options as you start to plan your trip.

St. John is a true find, and one that you should make an effort to seek out. It’s not the biggest or the most well-known Caribbean isle, but that’s something that will become your gain and everyone else’s loss.

Caitlin Moore
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/st-john-is-the-hidden-gem-of-the-virgin-islands-68736.html

Ever wonder what it’s like to swim among one of the world’s largest creatures? Each Spring, in the Central American country of Belize, whale sharks – weighing in as much as 20 tons and measuring up to 65 feet in length – emerge from the depths of the Caribbean Sea off the southern coast of Belize where Scuba divers and snorkelers relish in the rare opportunity to swim alongside these gentle giants.

“We are fortunate that these magnificent creatures seasonally return to Belize’s warm waters,” said Director of Tourism Tracy Panton. “Visitors to the beautiful country of Belize have the unique opportunity to get up close to the curious whale sharks and experience this incredible natural phenomenon.”

Whale sharks are characterized by their white, spotted back, two dorsal fins and of course, gigantic size. Although their enormity may be daunting, these docile fish are docile and feed on plankton. In fact, it is the annual spawning of the cubera snapper during the months of March, April, May and June that brings the whale sharks to the Gladden Spit Marine Reserve just beyond Belize’s barrier reef.

Numerous resorts and dive operators in the Stann Creek District of Belize offer special packages and excursions for guests looking to dive or snorkel with whale sharks in their natural environment. Whale shark encounters must be timed accordingly with the full moon phases to coincidence with the aggregating snapper.

Hamanasi Dive & Adventure Resort’s PADI operated dive shop located in Hopkins, Belize offers a two-tank whale shark dive for $190 per person. In Placencia, the PADI operated Seahorse Dive Shop’s Brian Young is the founder of the Whale Shark Expeditions and boasts over 24 years of diving experience for optimal sightings. A two-tank dive with Young and his dive masters costs $150 per person. For more information visit www.hamanasi.com or www.belizescuba.com

Rajinder Dogra
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/dive-packages-to-belize-93147.html

The last time I was in Mexico, so was everyone else, or so it seemed. But it is possible to travel to Mexico and enjoy a white sandy beach and some peace and quiet at the same time. All you need to know is where (and, in some cases, when) to go.

When to Go

November to April is widely regarded as the best time to visit. The summer months can get pretty hot. September and October is the peak of hurricane season, which actually stretches from November to June.

Keep in mind that the month of March tends to be very busy on the Mexico beaches with high school and college students on Spring Break. If it is a quiet vacation you want, you will also want to avoid the time around Christmas and Easter, as well as July and August.

Where to Go

There is a lot more to Mexico, and the Yucatan peninsula, than the city of Cancun.

Here are five favorite destinations that offer memorable Mexico vacations. Each of these spots can be reached by flying into Cancun. So if you would like to get a taste of the big city resort and then set out on the less traveled path, you will have the best of both worlds.

1. Isla Mujeres. Just 8 miles across the bay from Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a peaceful fishing village with restaurants, shops, and small, charming hotels. In fact, the whole island is cozy: The island itself is less than one mile wide and about five miles long. Downtown Isla Mujeres stretches only about six blocks. The signature turquoise waters and white sandy beaches make for great snorkeling and scuba diving. You can rent kayaks, snorkeling equipment and other gear right on the beach. Other activities to enjoy during your stay at Isla Mujeres include fishing, sailing, and swimming with the dolphins.

2. Riviera Maya stretches down the peninsula from Cancun to Tulum. Here, you will find white sandy beaches and water sports of all kinds, including scuba diving along the Great Maya coral reef, the second largest barrier reef system on the globe. Divers, and snorkelers may be rewarded with the sight of water life ranging from sea anemones, sponges and sea cucumbers to starfish and sea urchins, as well as underwater caverns. Sport fishing is a big business in Riviera Maya, as well. Other activities include golfing, spa going, and eco touring at the various ecological reserves in the region. Two highlights: the Xcaret EcoPark and the Sian Kaan bioshphere.

3. Playa del Carmen. About 40 minutes by car down the coast from Cancun, Playa del Carmen is growing into a bustling resort along Riviera Maya. If you like to shop, you will love Playa del Carmen. Boutiques in the town offer everything from cutting edge European fashions to crafts from local artisans.

During your stay, do not miss Quinto Avenida (Fifth Avenue). It is the heart of Playa. There are no cars, you can stroll the Avenue and be entertained by street performers, including artists and musicians. Playa del Carmen also features premiere dining, as the majority of the restaurants in the Riviera Maya are here, and quite a few of them are on Fifth Avenue itself. The bars and nightclubs are hopping on into the evening, so bring your dancing shoes.

4. XelHa. XelHa is an archeological site and eco park, located between Playa Del Carmen and Tulum. This destination offers adventures for all ages and mesmerizing ecological sights, as well as water sports, such as diving and snorkeling. You can swim with the dolphins here, as well. XelHa is particularly friendly for families and is bound to be an education in both Mayan history and ecology for the entire family.

5. Tulum. Drive a bit further south down the Mayan coast and you will find the small town of Tulum. Tulum is perhaps best known for its Mayan ruins, high on the limestone cliffs. These cliffs offer scenery you will not soon forget of the Caribbean alongside a picture perfect coastline. Tulum is the starting place for eco tourism and adventure travel, so make sure to look into nearby day trips and local attractions.

For an ideal and well rounded vacation, try a few days exploring the gradeur of Riviera Maya, then take some time to shop and play in the bustling Playa Del Carmen and another day or two visiting the Mayan ruins, and taking in the sites, of Tulum.

The word is out about these magnificent resorts, so you will not be able to avoid the crowds completely, but by striking out and having fun off the beaten path, you will find a good balance, and learn a lot about ecology and ancient Mayan culture.

Jamie Jefferson
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/insider-travel-tips-for-mexico-beyond-cancun-101906.html