Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Why Miami is a Paradise for Art Aficionados

The many attractions in Miami are sure to leave you wanting to return. Thanks to the perfect weather all year round in Miami, there is always a reason to be outdoors.

There are many Miami bus tours like the Hop-On-Hop-Off bus tour that take you around to experience the city's attractions. These tours allow you the freedom of alighting from the bus and taking off on your own adventure. Miami's art scene has been constantly growing and evolving with time. Here are some reasons why Miami is a paradise for art aficionados.

Miami is home to the Art Deco District


The eclectic Art Deco District has over 800 structures, each with a rich history and prolific significance. Art Deco has early neo-classical architectural influences and is characterized by bold geometrical shapes, vibrant colors and exotic motifs. This neighborhood was first constructed in the 20s when developers used these styles of modern, vivacious and colorful architecture to attract tourists to the city.

The Art Deco District in Miami is marked by the line-up of intricately crafted pastel-hued buildings. The three main streets famous of the Art Deco style are Collins Avenue, Ocean Drive, and Washington Avenue. There are also many tours that you can take to visit the Art Deco District.

Art Deco Hotel

There are many art galleries in Miami


There are more than 200 art galleries in the Design District as well as Wynwood. David Castillo's Gallery is has been awarded the "Best Art Gallery" in 2010 by the Miami NewTimes. One of Miami's most famous artists is Romero Britto whose. works are showcased in museums and galleries all around the world, including the original Britto Central, located on Miami Beach's iconic Lincoln Road. The Bakehuse Art Complex has been functional since 1987 and houses many exhibits. In addition to that, the BAC also has a photo lab as well as work studios that include ceramics, woodworking, and welding areas.

You can take an art walk in Miami


The city of Miami has many educative art walks to offer art aficionados. These public events allow you to walk into the participating galleries or studios and view their exhibits. Through these walks you can check out drawings, paintings, mixed media, sculptures, photography, as well as hand-made jewelry from local and international artists. Among the art walks to go on is the Wynwood Art Walk, Lincoln Road Art Walk, Coconut Grove Art Walk, and the Bird Road Art Walk to name a few.

Miami's art museums are among the best in the world


The amazing thing about the art museums in Miami is that they offer plenty of variety for the art aficionado. Right from modern contemporary art to ancient American art, Miami's art scene pretty much has it all. Visit the Bass Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Lowe Art Museum for an insight into Miami's art world.

Orignal From: Why Miami is a Paradise for Art Aficionados

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Ethical Ways to View the Wildlife of the Everglades National Park

The Everglades National Park is a true ecological wonder and is teeming with exotic species of wildlife that can be encountered on the air boat tours that ply in the park. This 1.5 million acre landscape is made up of eight unique habitats, with over one-third of it covered with water.

These swampy wetlands provide suitable habitats for over 350 species of birds, 40 species of mammals, 27 species of snakes and other creatures. Here are some of the tiny rodents that call the park. When you make a trip to the Everglades National Park, it is important to be mindful about the wilderness into which you are treading.

Here are some ways to ethically view the wildlife of the Everglades



  • Keep in mind that it is a privilege to observe wild animals in their natural habitat. Be responsible, respectful and mindful about the wildlife you are viewing and about the surrounding landscape in which you are viewing them.

  •  Keep enough distance when you are viewing wildlife. Spotting scopes and binoculars allow you to view wildlife effectively without getting too close. Allow an adequate avenue for animals to retreat if they feel cornered. Never chase an animal.


Everglades Wildlife

  •  Keep a watchful eye for signs of alarm. While some animals give off subtle signs, this behavior varies from species to species. Signs of alarm may include agitated pacing, flapping, constant vocalizations, and heightened muscle tension. Back off if you find an animal exhibiting any of this behavior.

  •  Exert extreme caution not to disrupt nesting grounds, rookeries, or denning areas. If disturbed, parent animals may flee, thereby leaving their young susceptible to predators. Stick to designated, park-approved trails at all times.

  •  Do not try to 'rescue' a young animal or bird that appears to be sick or orphaned. They most likely have parents waiting close by.

  •  You are not permitted to bring pet on most trails in the park. You may get your pet into campgrounds, picnic areas, and buildings such as the Big Cypress Swamp Welcome Centre and the Oasis Visitor Centre but they need to be on a 6-foot leash for their own safety and the safety of the wildlife.

  •  Never feed the wildlife. Wild animals need to fend for themselves and eat only natural foods.

  •  Talk in quiet voices as loud sounds may scare away the wildlife you might have the opportunity to chance upon. Tread lightly and try not to disturb sensitive habitats. Remember, you are a guest in the homes of the animals you have come to encounter.


Best Places to Encounter wildlife


The marshy wetland landscape of the Everglades National Park provides a fabulous habitat for the wildlife. Among places to explore are Shark Valley, Eco Pond, the Anhinga Trail, Snake Bight Chokoloskee Bay, Nine Mile Pond, Bobcat Boardwalk, Otter Cave Hammock Trail, and Tram Road.

Orignal From: Ethical Ways to View the Wildlife of the Everglades National Park

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

The Enjoyable and Eclectic Attractions of Key West

The stunning island of Key West is located in the southern coastal waters of Florida, around 160 miles from Miami. The island paradise is known for its myriad tourist attractions in addition to the perfect sunny weather which lasts for most parts of a year, beautiful sandy beaches, Caribbean-like picturesque environment, and tranquil blue waters. Tourists can take a Miami to Key West shuttle or use other options of transportation to come for a Miami to Key West tour.

The Diverse and Beautiful Land Attractions of Key West


Key West is one of the most beautiful island cities in the world. Tourists can spend sunny afternoons exploring the numerous Key West attractions with family and friends.


  • The Key West Aquarium:


    It was the first tourist spot in the city. It was built in the 1930s to increase the tourist inflow and boost the depressed Key West economy. It currently attracts and entertains millions of patrons every year, most of whom are inquisitive children. The Touch Tank and the turtle and shark feeding sessions offer a hands-on experience of the eclectic marine life housed at the aquarium. Some of the exotic sea creatures include a variety of fish species like barracudas, groupers, and tarpons, as well as an assorted collection of local sea life like manta rays, eels, lobsters, shrimps, and lots more!


Key West Aquarium





  • The many museums of Key West:


    The island city is home to many unique museums as well as places of historic importance. Families can take their kids to the Shipwreck Museum, the maritime museums, the Nature and Butterfly Conservatory, and Ripley's Museum. A Key West tour should also include excursions to the old Civil War Forts, the Key West lighthouse, and countless other historic sites.

  • The numerous bars and restaurants of Key West:


Key West is famous for its many beautiful restaurants and bars. Tourists can enjoy a fine dining experience at a waterfront restaurant or at Duval Street eateries, and delight the taste buds with the freshest and most scrumptious seafood culinary delights. An outdoor dinner under a moonlit sky is an experience of a lifetime!

The Thrilling Water Attractions and Escapades of Key West


A tour to Key West cannot be complete without treating yourself to a fun-filled and exhilarating session in the clear blue Key West waters.

Snorkeling in Key West:


Adventure seekers can go for enthralling sessions of snorkeling or scuba diving and explore the beauty of the only living barrier reef in North America. Diving enthusiasts can discover the secrets of the many shipwreck sites. A glass bottom boat tour offers sights of the underwater treasures from within the safety of the boats.

Sailing excursions:


Tourists can hire a boat or an opulent yacht and go for a private sailing expedition. You can enjoy varied aqua adventures like dolphin sightseeing, fishing, kayaking, and more, while soaking up the pleasant sunny weather.

Abundant water sports:


Key West is also a great place for diverse water sports like parasailing, wave runners, Jet Ski tours, and speedboat rides. Do not miss out on all the fun!

Orignal From: The Enjoyable and Eclectic Attractions of Key West