Outdoor | Amanda Starbuck : Outdoors

Tag: Outdoor

September 22, 2016

3 Top Fresh Water Fishing Destinations in the U.S.

fishing Table Rock Lake in Branson, Missouri

Known as being one of the best bass lakes in the United States, it is no surprise that many amateur fishing lovers hail from all corners of the country to visit Table Rock Lake.

Since the water is clear most of the year smaller natural baits work best. Along with using live bait, plastic worms have also proved to be most effective during the catch.

If you are a kayak fisherman you will need one of the higher quality fish finders because the water can be discolored and it can sometimes be very difficult to determine the water’s depth. Keep a lookout for objects or vegetation on the lake’s floor, as this generally where the bass tend to gather.

Kentucky Lake, Kentucky/Tennessee

The largest man made lake on the eastern side of the Mississippi, Kentucky Lake runs North to South along the Western tip of Kentucky and nearly the entire western border of Tennessee.

Interestingly enough, this man made lake contains every species of freshwater fish which is one of the many reasons it is such a desirable destination for fishing lovers.

Kobuk River, Alaska

The Kobuk River is famous for containing a variety of fish which we don’t see in the lower 48 and you can only access this river by a small airplane. Kobuk river is famous for sheefish, arctic grayling, lake trout, arctic char, chum salmon and northern pike.

The sheefish is the most common fish species in the area and it has a similar taste and size to halibut. Since they grow quite large, you would need a larger rig to catch.Since Sheefish are aggressive fighters and feed on smaller fish, use a 2-3 inch line to catch them.

While these are top three areas for freshwater fishing, there are so many other places to visit that have an abundance of aquatic wildlife.

June 27, 2016

5 Best Hidden Sights in Germany

Apart from Germany’s capital or the country’s financial center, Frankfurt, it can sometimes be challenging to find the right sights in this vast European nation. Below are some awe-inspiring landmarks that should definitely be on your bucket list the next time you visit Germany.

The oldest city in Germany

Trier is Germany’s oldest town which is beautifully decorated with Roman arches and medieval churches. Taking a walk down to Moselle river will lead you to a stunning Roman amphitheatre. Annually, the ancient Bread and Games festival takes place in September which is a local tradition consisting of music, dancing and different historic contests.

Saxony
Near Dresden, Germans and tourists alike thoroughly enjoy the breathtaking views of the Saxony National Park in Switzerland. The stunning landscape has a range of natural beauty, ranging from white limestone peaks to thick woodland, in addition to vast, green meadows. You can also see the winding crystal blue water of the Elbe River flowing into the distance.

Traditional festivals
The Cannstatter Volksfest in Stuttgart, which occurs from the end of September to October 9th, is one of the biggest fairs in Europe. With Germans, Europeans, and other intercontinental tourists gathering for this event, it is no surprise that this continues to be a main attraction. All in all a joyous, free-spirited festival, try to attend this event during the first Sunday, when the Volksfest parade with horse-drawn brewery wagons, bands wearing traditional German attire, and delicious food all make the experience even more worthwhile.

Magical castles in Bavaria
Both of King Ludwig the II’s castles (Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau) are so magical in nature that they have both inspired Walt Disney himself during the creation of “Disney World.” Visitors can tour the lavish interior and decorations of these two castles, and experience the gorgeous views of Lake Forggensee. Interestingly enough, Neuschwanstein was the setting for films Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and the Great Escape.

Exploring the Baltic Sea
A small peninsula on the northern coast of the Baltic sea, the Darß is a beautiful, remote area that is known for its wildlife. The wildlife in the area has rare breeds of geese, stunning beaches with clear water that are perfect for biking and exploring. If you happen to be near the Baltic sea for more than the day, be sure to rent bungalows that are close in proximity to the beach.

June 10, 2016

Useful World Travel Tips

Patience
Be prepared for unexpected circumstances and some planned events not working out as you as hoped. Although this can be frustrating and often times less than ideal, keep in mind that these mishaps are not only what will allow you to learn more about how to plan your trip better next time, but will create cherished memories.

Getting annoyed or angry does not help the situation in the slightest. Taking a deep breath, evaluating the situation, and moving forward with a smile on your face is the only way to best address any unfortunate situation.

Rise & shine
Even though this is technically a “vacation,” waking up at the crack of dawn to get the day started is actually the best way to explore a new city, town or country. One huge benefit to waking up early is the simple fact you can avoid any massive crowds or long lines to important sites.

If you happen to enjoy photography, going on site to take photos in the soft or golden light provides a different perspective in the morning when everything comes across as new and fresh to the eye. So grab a cafe solo along with un desayuno tipico and head on over to the watch the sun rise over the mediterranean coast from Park Guell.

People watch
Taking the time to observe and take in what is around you is the best way to create memorable visual images in your mind well after the trip is over. Having breakfast at a cafe full of locals to asking your cab driver where the best places to visit, are both incredible ways to experience this new place with an introspective glance.

Smile & greet others
Before you head out to Kyoto or Athens, be sure to learn a few simple greetings in the local language to make certain interactions such as saying hello, goodbye or thank you. This not only shows the local people you have made an effort to learn a bit of their culture, but it also allows for easier interactions with waiters, hotel staff and cab drivers in your day to day conversations.

Don’t overplan
Give some time in your schedule to explore on your own without a set itinerary, a tour bus waiting waiting for you, or a line around the block to see the spider-like chandeliers of the Royal Palace in Madrid. Scheduling time out of your trip to explore the place you’re visiting is the most ideal way to create some spontaneity and healthy unpredictability during your journey.

Slow down
A huge mistake that many travelers make during their journey is to over schedule or attempt to cram as many countries as they possibly can in a limited timeframe. Spending even more time than anticipated in one place is never something to regret during your travels.

Pack less
Packing lightly is one of the most fundamental tips before traveling abroad from anywhere between one week to a full month. Although you think you need six pairs of shoes and a ton of new clothes to hike the Alps, it is best to actually leave those behind. This also allows for additional space to pick up some souvenirs for loved ones along your international journey.

June 1, 2016

A Guide to Muir Woods National Monument

One of the most historic and well known historic forests in the continental U.S, Muir Woods National Monument is located off the Pacific coast, just outside of San Francisco in Marin county, California. Protecting 554 acres of forest, John Muir Woods is a breathtaking nature preserve consisting of extensive biodiversity with its rich ecosystem throughout the forest. In particular, the Muir Woods National Monument is known for its redwood forests, one of a few remaining in the San Francisco Bay Area.

The Muir Woods National Monument is an old-growth coastal redwood forest. Due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, the forest is regularly shrouded in a coastal marine layer fog, contributing to a wet environment that encourages vigorous plant growth. The fog is also vital for the growth of the redwoods as they use moisture from the fog during drought seasons, in particular the dry summer.

With trees aging anywhere from four-hundred to eight-hundred years old, redwoods are generally incredibly tall, with their height soaring to around two-hundred fifty feet. Although it is prohibited to camp within the national monument, visitors are allowed to hike or bike the trails to fully experience the endless wonder of the redwood forest.

If you happen to be interested in hiking to the Muir Wood National Monument as your final destination, be sure to catch the Marin Stagecoach to the Mountain Home Inn, which is close in proximity to the forest.

From the Mountain Home Inn it’s a two-mile or around a one hour hike to Muir Woods on the Panoramic and Canopy View trails. On this particular path, visitors have the opportunity to see the gorgeous vistas of the ocean alongside the beautiful redwood trees that complement nature’s serenity.

While parking can be bothersome for many, one great tip to keep in mind when planning your visit is to take the shuttle to the vast nature preserve. Even though the shuttle is quite convenient, please keep in mind that the Muir Woods Shuttle is only operational the spring and summer.

To avoid crowds, be sure to plan your visit to the park either during the late winter or early spring. While it is ideal to plan your trip around the summer, also bear in mind that it is also equally important to avoid visiting the national monument during holiday weekends. During the springtime, visiting the park after a light drizzle or a wet day is the perfect opportunity to shoot some stunning nature shots to capture the vibrant pale green leaves in and around the forest.

While the Muir Wood National Monument is by far the most famous of all redwood national parks, it is also a great idea to visit other nature reserves in the area if time permits. Visit the second-growth redwoods of Phleger Estate and enjoy one of the most peaceful sites in the Golden Gate National Parks. To explore other redwood destinations in the Bay Area, be sure to visit the Butano State Park and Redwood Regional Park.

March 20, 2016

Discovering the Charm of Ireland

Cliffs of Moher

With over one million visitors that travel from all over the world to experience this majestic sight off Ireland’s western coast, the Cliffs of Moher is truly what makes any trip to Ireland worthwhile.

The deep navy blue of the Atlantic in addition to the mossy green green covering this vast, arch-shaped fields is the perfect way is absolutely breathtaking. At the southern end of the Cliffs of Moher stands Hags Head, a natural rocky promontory that resembles a seated woman when one looks at the area from the north.

Although many tourists are unaware that this vision is quite interesting, if you happen to ask about viewing Hags Head during your time at the cliffs, simply ask anyone who happens to frequent the hiking or biking trails in the area.

In terms of the ancient Gaelic language, the word Mothar means “ruined fort.” Historically speaking, a fort dating back to the first century BC stood where Moher tower is currently located, so that tourists can discover how stunning the other side of the Atlantic ocean remains centuries later.

Trinity College Long Room, Dublin

As the largest library in Ireland, beautifully decorated with over 200,000 books dating back to the 17th century, the Trinity College Long Room continues to be a prime tourist spot for both domestic and global travelers visiting Dublin.

The massive collection long room not only includes a rare copy of the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic, which is ideal for any avid history enthusiast who thoroughly appreciates UK culture, but in addition this library also contains 15th-century wooden harp. Interestingly enough, this wooden harp is the model for the Irish Emblem.

The library’s most famous possession is the Book of Kells, which is decorated with lavish Celtic and Christian iconography. The Book of Kells was crafted by Christian monks around 800 AD For many Irish nationals, this actually currently represents

Blarney Castle, Cork

Historically known as a medieval stronghold which is located on the River Martin, this castle was built during the Muskerry dynasty in the year 1446. If you happen to explore Blarney Castle during the spring or the summer, be sure to explore the extensive gardens that surround stronghold.

Not only does walking around the castle allow you to view this architectural masterpiece from various angles, but it also allows you to see other attractions that aren’t in the tour books, such as the natural rock formations with unique naming conventions. To guide you through planning a trip to Ireland, please visit this link.

February 20, 2016

Costa Brava: An Outdoor Explorer’s Dream

Often times an unknown part of the Spanish coast, the Costa Brava is a lovely town a little inland, off the Mediterranean coastline a little south of France. Culturally known as the land from where both Dali and Picasso hail, the Catalan history is rich of art, natural landscape and winemaking culture to say the least.

A quick side trip of a little over an hour and half from the heart of Barcelona will open your eyes to a whole different side of Spain, miles away from the tourist buses and the noisy bustle of the big city.

As this area is both on and off Spain’s coast, it’s also a great idea to savor some of the country’s most delicious seafood, ranging everywhere from grilled octopus to more national dishes, such as the breakfast staple of a tomato like bruschetta with olive oil. One dessert that is specific to the Catalan region is called “crema catalana,” which is the very similar to the french creme brulee.

This region also showcases a plethora of picturesque medieval towns, stunning beaches and some of the most beautiful, remote crystal blue water of Spain. Here are some easy, affordable ways you can explore all of the beautiful outdoor scenes of this gem.

Once you arrive in the area of the Costa Brava, a great way to start off exploring the region is by walking through some paths called the Camins de Ronda. The paths of the Camins de Ronda allow you to see the many small fishing villages that support the local economy, along with exploring some lesser know, remote areas of the coast.

Even if you would just like to hike for a little bit or head to the beach to soak up some sun for most of the day, there are actually tours in the area that offer various hikes from slower, one hour walks to hikes that last several days.

For more intense outdoor adventure, visitors and locals like often go diving or snorkelling at the Medes Islands, which is easily one of the most important marine life reserves in the Western Mediterranean.

This archipelago containing seven small islands continues to astound visitors with its gray rocky cliffs which is ideal for individuals interested in learning more about the diverse marine life in the sea. Another incredible outdoor activity is Kitesurfing in the Bay of Roses, which has several renting stations right on the beach so there is very minimal hassle in terms of the equipment needed.

A common way for Spaniards to travel locally or within a specific city is to bike in order to explore the various neighborhoods of the region. Biking throughout an area called the Emporda with an electric bicycle (burricleta) at Ocitania is one of the best routes to see the medieval towns, green foothills and the more country parts of the Costa Brava.

The primary advantage of biking or cycling of the Ocitania route is to sightsee bits and pieces of the region that are for the most part, foreign to many tourists. Essentially, this bike route is a wonderful way to get lost in the Spanish charm that continues to entrap tourists and locals in its ancient spell of both Medieval and Roman past.

July 23, 2015

An Advocate of Rare Horse Breed

A long-time protector and expert of the Turkmenistan’s quintessential Akhal Teke horses, historian, breeder of Akhal Teke horses, and former General Director of “Turkmen Atlary” was bestowed the illustrious honor of being made a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and a fellow of the Long Riders’ Guild.

Geldy Kyarizov is joining an nonpareil group of equestrian explorers that have been honored by both organizations, who’ve recognized his dedication towards protecting, preserving and promoting the rare horse breed.

The Akhal Teke bloodline dates back to days of antiquity, but had almost been wiped out during the reign of the Soviet Union. In the late 1980s, Geldy rode 4,300 kilometers from Ashgabat to Moscow to petition Soviet Union government officials to intercede on behalf of the rare breed.

The petition was a success, thus began Geldy’s travels across a wide area of land in the Soviet Union, searching for prized specimens of the Akhal Teke blood line. To preserve the majestic creatures’ posterity, he began a breeding program which proved very successful in marking the breed’s resurgence. One success, Maksat, a stallion with a pedigree going back thousands of years, was bestowed upon the then British Prime Minister John Major as a gift from the Turkmen nation.

Yanardag, arguably the most successful horse in Geldy’s program, was considered so beautiful, so perfect, that Turkmenistan’s president placed the stallions image on a national stamp, ordered a statue to be erected in the horses’ honor, and named Yanardag the country’s national symbol.

Due to the program’s success, Geldy was able to secure government funding in order to establish a large equestrian complex in Turkmenistan’s capital, which subsequently introduced the nation’s first veterinary laboratory able to perform DNA testing that was necessary to set up a new stud book for the Akhal Teke.

In honor of Turkmenistan’s 10th anniversary of independence, he organized over one-thousand Akhal Tekes to march through the hippodrome in Ashgabat, an event known as the “Parade of Horses.”

A world-renowned and recognized expert of the breed, his educational conferences, equestrian journey’s, academic investigations, and DNA research have been invaluable to promoting and protecting the nation’s beloved breed.