Regardless of how bad the economy is, we all still need to kick back and relax once in a while. Let's talk about one of the cheapest types of vacation you can take: a camping trip. There's nothing like getting out and enjoying the serenity of nature to reduce stress and put a few years back on the old life expectancy. Stress can kill you and worrying about how to pay for a vacation adds to the stress. You're in luck, though; welcome to the world of free camping.
You may not realize it, but you own a large chunk of pristine wilderness and you should go take a look at it once in a while. Well, you don't own it directly, but the federal and state governments maintain this land through your tax dollars, making you a joint owner of this beautiful land. So, I'm afraid you can't get rich by selling out to a fancy ski resort, but you can achieve a rich life by getting outdoors and enjoying the land the government holds in trust for you. Start by taking a short weekend vacation to the nearest wilderness area!
Regardless of where you live, there is public land not too far away. Live in New York City? Getting out of town will be the hard part, but once you're out of the city traffic, there is pristine wilderness within a short drive. The recreational opportunities abound. Between the National Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the National Parks Service and your state's Wildlife Management program, there are many areas to choose from for a weekend getaway or even a two week vacation!
But, the woods are boring!" you say? Sure, there's no bowling allies or pizza joints, but what is there is beyond compare. The beauty and serenity of nature is exactly what you need after running the rat race day in and day out. Activities in nature are only limited by your imagination. You can go for a hike and get rid of that couch potato flab or simply sit and contemplate a waterfall for hours on end. If you think you'll still get bored with life happening all around you, bring along a few simple activities that you never seem to have time for in the city. Bring your camera and try to capture a small piece of the ambiance to reflect on when you get back to your desk on Monday morning. Odds are you'll be longing for the simplicity of nature by the end of the week.
Want an example of something you can do in the woods that you might not be able to do at home? Have you ever tried taking a shower on your lawn?How about cooking freshly caught fish over a campfire? For that matter, try just sitting around a campfire with your family and having time to talk, listen and play games without the constant distraction of television, cell phones and traffic noise.
I hope you'll consider checking out your public lands. We're all paying for them, why should only a few of us be enjoying them?
Freecampsites.net is dedicated to making free camping destinations accessible to the public. You can find many listings for free campgrounds throughout the United States and Canada with an easy to use map interface. Learn more about free camping on public lands.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Johnny_Shelley
Click Here!
Read more...
Custom Search
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Backpacking History and Help
No one knows the exact origins of when backpacking first started, but there are many stories and accounts that it began with the "Hippie Trail" in the 1960's. It has become much more mainstream and there are many adventuresome spirits that desire to follow that same journey today. Backpackers yearn for adventures in new places and activities while meeting many diverse and culturally different people along the way. Most are surprised to discover things they never knew about themselves as it tests your strengths both mentally and physically, and enjoy enjoying the risks that can occur.
Today's modern backpacker is undeniably more comfortable, as earlier travelers did not carry with them expensive equipment such as computers, cell phones, or digital cameras. Trends are now such that backpackers feel the need to stay in touch, and they are called "Flashbackers". This is the term used for a people or groups that elect to travel to less expensive destinations - think of it as backpacking with a flash. Typically, they spend very little money during the day while choosing to pay more for the actual destination, spending much more lavishly for their dining and sleeping accommodations at night.
Another type of backpacking group is called "Gap-packing". These are usually younger Europeans. They leave directly after they graduate high school and return back in time to head to college or their new job. Hence, the "gap" between school or employment, and their main objective is to visit as many amazing countries as possible in a short time.
Helpful Tips:
It's not only the young people that enjoy this hobby. More and more families are getting into the action too! Some do not like to travel on their own so there are many social groups that get together and plan trips. They are many of these groups to be found on the internet. A lot of people choose to take advantage of the abundance of travel companies as they can often offer guides and provide maps. Remember to pack accordingly and plan for whatever climate it may be. Try to eliminate useless extra clothing and items that will be cumbersome or heavy. Locating food is easier if packed together. Keep keep other things such as matches and utensils in bags to prevent them getting wet.
What To Bring:
Sleeping bag or tent Water bottles, cups Stove, pot, scraper (to clean the pot) Waterproof matches/lighter Cup Utility knife Scraper for cleaning pot Rain and wind jacket/pants/bandana
Whether a newby, well seasoned traveler junkie, or anyone just needing a relaxing vacation away from daily life - this could be something new or re-experience again.
Author is a freelance writer. For more information on please visit http://www.skylandtrailclinic.com/
Distributed by Content Crooner
Click Here!
Read more...
Today's modern backpacker is undeniably more comfortable, as earlier travelers did not carry with them expensive equipment such as computers, cell phones, or digital cameras. Trends are now such that backpackers feel the need to stay in touch, and they are called "Flashbackers". This is the term used for a people or groups that elect to travel to less expensive destinations - think of it as backpacking with a flash. Typically, they spend very little money during the day while choosing to pay more for the actual destination, spending much more lavishly for their dining and sleeping accommodations at night.
Another type of backpacking group is called "Gap-packing". These are usually younger Europeans. They leave directly after they graduate high school and return back in time to head to college or their new job. Hence, the "gap" between school or employment, and their main objective is to visit as many amazing countries as possible in a short time.
Helpful Tips:
It's not only the young people that enjoy this hobby. More and more families are getting into the action too! Some do not like to travel on their own so there are many social groups that get together and plan trips. They are many of these groups to be found on the internet. A lot of people choose to take advantage of the abundance of travel companies as they can often offer guides and provide maps. Remember to pack accordingly and plan for whatever climate it may be. Try to eliminate useless extra clothing and items that will be cumbersome or heavy. Locating food is easier if packed together. Keep keep other things such as matches and utensils in bags to prevent them getting wet.
What To Bring:
Sleeping bag or tent Water bottles, cups Stove, pot, scraper (to clean the pot) Waterproof matches/lighter Cup Utility knife Scraper for cleaning pot Rain and wind jacket/pants/bandana
Whether a newby, well seasoned traveler junkie, or anyone just needing a relaxing vacation away from daily life - this could be something new or re-experience again.
Author is a freelance writer. For more information on please visit http://www.skylandtrailclinic.com/
Distributed by Content Crooner
Click Here!
Read more...
Friday, February 5, 2010
Looking for the island?
For those backpackers outside there no matter from malaysian or not that maybe in looking for some good places for their holiday or have a reunion, here I have one place to share with you. I don't know whether you like it or not but you can try to take a look their packages.
Actually my fellow friends had a plan to have a holiday at the island and enjoys all the moments together. Our plan is whether want to go to Redang Island, Perhentian Island, or Pangkor Island. Then we start googling in order to find the cheapest prices and at the same time also include many packages. Then my friend accidently found this site http://www.pulauperhentian.com.my/p_samudera_freeneasy.php
The island is located at Kuala Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia. You can try googling or use google maps to see that place and the name of island is Perhentian Island.
Since I'm a student, I guess it not too burden for me to pay their package which is less than others packages. Their packages consists of 2 nights accomondation, boat transfer to and from, 2 snorkeling trip but remember, their packages not include meals. Therefore, you need to have a backup plan whether want to cook by yourself or request them to include in the packages.
For your information, there are many chalet over there and you not to be worry about where do you want to stay at the night. Here is another link that might be suite with your budgets http://www.pulauperhentian.com.my/c_abdul.php.
You better hurry..because i think their promotion have an expired date..see u there.
Click Here!
Actually my fellow friends had a plan to have a holiday at the island and enjoys all the moments together. Our plan is whether want to go to Redang Island, Perhentian Island, or Pangkor Island. Then we start googling in order to find the cheapest prices and at the same time also include many packages. Then my friend accidently found this site http://www.pulauperhentian.com.my/p_samudera_freeneasy.php
The island is located at Kuala Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia. You can try googling or use google maps to see that place and the name of island is Perhentian Island.
Since I'm a student, I guess it not too burden for me to pay their package which is less than others packages. Their packages consists of 2 nights accomondation, boat transfer to and from, 2 snorkeling trip but remember, their packages not include meals. Therefore, you need to have a backup plan whether want to cook by yourself or request them to include in the packages.
For your information, there are many chalet over there and you not to be worry about where do you want to stay at the night. Here is another link that might be suite with your budgets http://www.pulauperhentian.com.my/c_abdul.php.
You better hurry..because i think their promotion have an expired date..see u there.
Click Here!
Read more...
What You Should Bring When Camping
Camping is a fun activity for all ages. Families and friends travel to national parks year round to experience the beauty of nature. Before you can experience the joys of Mother Nature you must be prepared to bring supplies.
Food is a given for people who would like to eat outdoors. Food can also be hunted or fished but requires talent with a fishing rod or a gun. Tents and blankets are another thing you should bring unless you've decided to stay in a recreational vehicle and have home like amenities. You should also bring a camera to film and capture the moments with your love ones. Don't forget marshmallows, gram crackers, and chocolate to create smores! You should always carry a lighter and army knife. You never know what circumstance you may be put in based on the conditions of your external environment.
You should also bring different types of clothing which you can change out of. If hygiene is an issue then check in to the nearest rest stop where you are camping. There you should be able to shower and brush your teeth.
Fuel is also another resource you will need out in the woods to transport you and keep you warm. You can bring with you gas to cook or perhaps electric to power appliances which you will be used to cook food. You can also buy something which is rarely known new battery operated heaters. Heat your body with just batteries without the use of gas or electric.
For more information on battery operated heaters check out: http://www.batteryoperatedheaters.net/
Copyright © Vince Maxwell, All Rights Reserved.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Vince_Maxwell
Click Here!
Read more...
Food is a given for people who would like to eat outdoors. Food can also be hunted or fished but requires talent with a fishing rod or a gun. Tents and blankets are another thing you should bring unless you've decided to stay in a recreational vehicle and have home like amenities. You should also bring a camera to film and capture the moments with your love ones. Don't forget marshmallows, gram crackers, and chocolate to create smores! You should always carry a lighter and army knife. You never know what circumstance you may be put in based on the conditions of your external environment.
You should also bring different types of clothing which you can change out of. If hygiene is an issue then check in to the nearest rest stop where you are camping. There you should be able to shower and brush your teeth.
Fuel is also another resource you will need out in the woods to transport you and keep you warm. You can bring with you gas to cook or perhaps electric to power appliances which you will be used to cook food. You can also buy something which is rarely known new battery operated heaters. Heat your body with just batteries without the use of gas or electric.
For more information on battery operated heaters check out: http://www.batteryoperatedheaters.net/
Copyright © Vince Maxwell, All Rights Reserved.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Vince_Maxwell
Click Here!
Read more...
Thursday, February 4, 2010
The Way to Become a Better Speed Boat Driver
Generosity is contagious. This is a maxim that often times loses its meaning on commonplace encounter with various people but in some manner finds its essence on waters. If you have done some hours boating out in the sea, you understand what I mean. If you're new to boating, you will be amazed how boaters treat other boaters as compared to drivers on freeway or even around your neighborhood.
Boaters are more polite, giving, courteous and even helpful to other boaters. Correct etiquette is always seasoned. And although many boaters didn't take any boating safety course, they are mindful of the things to do and the means to act on every situation.
Common sense - the unwritten rule on boating and a need to have if you wish to survive on waters. Should there be an enquiry of right-of-way, frequent sense will always tell you to give it to the other guy in spite of who is privileged and who is weighed. In boating, everybody seems to know this and for some good reasons, everyone seems to consciously employ everyday sense and settle to others.
I am in a position to relate this to a story I have listened to not so earlier. Two guys were casually boating holding their way at 4 miles per hour. A large cruiser was coming to their rear. Logically, the large cruiser, since it was the weighted down, had to yield while the casual boaters can hold their line because they were privileged. Still, everyday sense prevailed to the privileged ones, realizing that they can grow into trouble and yielded for the large boat.
This is not an isolated incident. Most boaters are more inclined on employing their common sense than enforcing the principle of who's the privileged and who's the weighed. And this is something you always wish to bring when going out on the waters. This is not the rule but it is always best to drop and let the other guys pass, despite who has the right-of-way.
Each time I set to the waters, I always observe this variety of behavior is a collective manner. Everyone seems to sink to others - not because they know the rules but more because they are inclined to treat boaters as neighbors on identical water. Moreover, there is always that help-your neighbor policy that rules everyone. Actually, this is a legal rule but boaters who are unconscious that this is a rule tend to apply it each time or a minimum of when they are on the waters.
This seems sensible because if you require assistance, you need someone to finish and render you some help. But boaters do this not because they treat others as a means (helping others just because they expect others to aid them) but as an ends (simply helping because it is the proper thing to do).
To be honest, seeing boaters helping one other boater to tow his boat to the shore or fix a boat, occasionally for several hours, can drive me crazy in a good way. If I anchored several hundred yards faraway from the chief pack, it will only be just a matter of time when someone will approach me to ask if everything is okay or yell from the distance "Out of gas?" or "Need some help?"
General rules are good but they are more useful when legal disputes are required. On waters, always play defensive to avoid collisions, create harmony with other boaters, and always be ready to give others help.
Jimmy Francis has been writing articles online for nearly 2 years now. Not only does this author specialize in weight loss, fitness and diet, you can as well check out his latest website on http://www.petwaterfountainreviews.com/Dog-Water-Bowls.html and http://www.dogbarkcollars.org/No-Bark-Dog-Collars.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jimmy_Francis
Click Here!
Read more...
Boaters are more polite, giving, courteous and even helpful to other boaters. Correct etiquette is always seasoned. And although many boaters didn't take any boating safety course, they are mindful of the things to do and the means to act on every situation.
Common sense - the unwritten rule on boating and a need to have if you wish to survive on waters. Should there be an enquiry of right-of-way, frequent sense will always tell you to give it to the other guy in spite of who is privileged and who is weighed. In boating, everybody seems to know this and for some good reasons, everyone seems to consciously employ everyday sense and settle to others.
I am in a position to relate this to a story I have listened to not so earlier. Two guys were casually boating holding their way at 4 miles per hour. A large cruiser was coming to their rear. Logically, the large cruiser, since it was the weighted down, had to yield while the casual boaters can hold their line because they were privileged. Still, everyday sense prevailed to the privileged ones, realizing that they can grow into trouble and yielded for the large boat.
This is not an isolated incident. Most boaters are more inclined on employing their common sense than enforcing the principle of who's the privileged and who's the weighed. And this is something you always wish to bring when going out on the waters. This is not the rule but it is always best to drop and let the other guys pass, despite who has the right-of-way.
Each time I set to the waters, I always observe this variety of behavior is a collective manner. Everyone seems to sink to others - not because they know the rules but more because they are inclined to treat boaters as neighbors on identical water. Moreover, there is always that help-your neighbor policy that rules everyone. Actually, this is a legal rule but boaters who are unconscious that this is a rule tend to apply it each time or a minimum of when they are on the waters.
This seems sensible because if you require assistance, you need someone to finish and render you some help. But boaters do this not because they treat others as a means (helping others just because they expect others to aid them) but as an ends (simply helping because it is the proper thing to do).
To be honest, seeing boaters helping one other boater to tow his boat to the shore or fix a boat, occasionally for several hours, can drive me crazy in a good way. If I anchored several hundred yards faraway from the chief pack, it will only be just a matter of time when someone will approach me to ask if everything is okay or yell from the distance "Out of gas?" or "Need some help?"
General rules are good but they are more useful when legal disputes are required. On waters, always play defensive to avoid collisions, create harmony with other boaters, and always be ready to give others help.
Jimmy Francis has been writing articles online for nearly 2 years now. Not only does this author specialize in weight loss, fitness and diet, you can as well check out his latest website on http://www.petwaterfountainreviews.com/Dog-Water-Bowls.html and http://www.dogbarkcollars.org/No-Bark-Dog-Collars.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jimmy_Francis
Click Here!
Read more...
Improve Your Cycling by Improving Recovery
As recovery is key to athletic progress, put as much effort into recovery as you do your training rides. Little changes can get you ready for your next ride or race faster. Being able to go fast is all about how well you recover from your training. I've compiled a list of tips to help improve your recovery ability and speed your progress.
Strive for 8 hours of sleep per night. If you train like an athlete you have to rest like one. If you have the chance to take a nap on hard training days, do it. Your body rebuilds better when you are asleep.
Use a recovery drink right after training. The mix of Carbs and Protein are absorbed quickly to help repair the muscles and speed recovery. There is a one hour window after training that the body is primed to absorb nutrients so use it. If you delay feeding your muscles it can take up to 48 hours to replenish them. 80 grams of simple carbs and 20 grams of high quality whey protein is the ideal recipe to speed recovery. Chocolate milk has also been shown to work as well as higher priced recovery drinks.
After hard workouts and on rest days, go for a super easy 20 minute ride to get the blood flowing in your legs and clear the waste products created during your workout.
Alternate days of hard rides with more moderate aerobic rides.
Stretch after every workout. Yoga works better than static stretching so give it a shot.
Take hot baths and get massages to keep the muscles loose and speed the clearing of waste products built up during workouts. Even if you can't afford a trip to the massage therapist, take a rolling pin and use it on all the muscles of your legs. Very effective and very cheap.
Focus on eating quality carbs, fats and protein with lots of vegetables.
Make every fourth week a recovery week by reducing your workload by 20%. Take a week off completely every 3 months. You'll come back stronger when your body has a chance to recover completely.
If you feel rundown or stressed out, don't be afraid to take a day off. Your body doesn't know whether the stress is from work or training and needs time to repair.
Follow these guidelines and you'll see faster progress. Remember, Training = Work + Recovery.
It's in you to become a better cyclist. Helping you get there is my goal. Equipment, riding skills, fitness and nutrition all have to be dialed in to reach your potential. To take your next step on that journey visit http://www.cyclecambridge.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Winston_Endall
Click Here!
Read more...
Strive for 8 hours of sleep per night. If you train like an athlete you have to rest like one. If you have the chance to take a nap on hard training days, do it. Your body rebuilds better when you are asleep.
Use a recovery drink right after training. The mix of Carbs and Protein are absorbed quickly to help repair the muscles and speed recovery. There is a one hour window after training that the body is primed to absorb nutrients so use it. If you delay feeding your muscles it can take up to 48 hours to replenish them. 80 grams of simple carbs and 20 grams of high quality whey protein is the ideal recipe to speed recovery. Chocolate milk has also been shown to work as well as higher priced recovery drinks.
After hard workouts and on rest days, go for a super easy 20 minute ride to get the blood flowing in your legs and clear the waste products created during your workout.
Alternate days of hard rides with more moderate aerobic rides.
Stretch after every workout. Yoga works better than static stretching so give it a shot.
Take hot baths and get massages to keep the muscles loose and speed the clearing of waste products built up during workouts. Even if you can't afford a trip to the massage therapist, take a rolling pin and use it on all the muscles of your legs. Very effective and very cheap.
Focus on eating quality carbs, fats and protein with lots of vegetables.
Make every fourth week a recovery week by reducing your workload by 20%. Take a week off completely every 3 months. You'll come back stronger when your body has a chance to recover completely.
If you feel rundown or stressed out, don't be afraid to take a day off. Your body doesn't know whether the stress is from work or training and needs time to repair.
Follow these guidelines and you'll see faster progress. Remember, Training = Work + Recovery.
It's in you to become a better cyclist. Helping you get there is my goal. Equipment, riding skills, fitness and nutrition all have to be dialed in to reach your potential. To take your next step on that journey visit http://www.cyclecambridge.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Winston_Endall
Click Here!
Read more...
Mountaineering Boots Basics
Exploring nature is a fascinating journey to do. Climbing mountains, or exploring caves gives us unforgettable moments. But to keep it safe, we need to take care and prepare well.
Planning and preparing the trip carefully has proven to save lives of those who endure their adventure. When we planned to climb a mountain keep in mind, that there's no room for a mistake. Climbing a mountain is dangerous, especially for those who don't wear proper gears. One of the most important gear in mountain climbing are mountaineering boots.
Mountaineering boots are made of stiff material such as hard leather, plastic, or even Kevlar. The used of stiff materials and its height design are meant to gave your feet maximum protection thus reducing the risk of ankle injuries when you are exploring steep and harsh terrain.
The materials used also insulate foot from extreme temperatures, keeping your feet warm, preventing frostbite when exploring high mountains. Frostbite is one of most dangerous mountaineering maladies that will happen in extreme cold conditions if care is not taken.
Because of their stiffness, make sure you wear it for about a month or two, before using them for mountaineering for the first time to make sure your feet are well adapted to the boots. Choose only the most comfortable boots that fit you well, make sure that when you fit them that you use the socks you will use when actually using them.
A good preparation should make your journey safe, and it is the most important thing when you planning to explore the nature.
Jason really loves his home and family and lives life to the full and has been writing about his knowledge and experience. Feel free to see some of his material at http://lawntractorattachments.net/ and http://claypigeonthrower.net/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Gorka
Click Here!
Read more...
Planning and preparing the trip carefully has proven to save lives of those who endure their adventure. When we planned to climb a mountain keep in mind, that there's no room for a mistake. Climbing a mountain is dangerous, especially for those who don't wear proper gears. One of the most important gear in mountain climbing are mountaineering boots.
Mountaineering boots are made of stiff material such as hard leather, plastic, or even Kevlar. The used of stiff materials and its height design are meant to gave your feet maximum protection thus reducing the risk of ankle injuries when you are exploring steep and harsh terrain.
The materials used also insulate foot from extreme temperatures, keeping your feet warm, preventing frostbite when exploring high mountains. Frostbite is one of most dangerous mountaineering maladies that will happen in extreme cold conditions if care is not taken.
Because of their stiffness, make sure you wear it for about a month or two, before using them for mountaineering for the first time to make sure your feet are well adapted to the boots. Choose only the most comfortable boots that fit you well, make sure that when you fit them that you use the socks you will use when actually using them.
A good preparation should make your journey safe, and it is the most important thing when you planning to explore the nature.
Jason really loves his home and family and lives life to the full and has been writing about his knowledge and experience. Feel free to see some of his material at http://lawntractorattachments.net/ and http://claypigeonthrower.net/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Gorka
Click Here!
Read more...
