Connect with us

Trip Ideas

These Volunteer Salamander Crossing Guards Help Amphibians Find Love

Published

on

salamander

When spring days begin to thaw Vermont’s frozen ground, countless tiny amphibians stir after a long winter sleep. And on the first warm, wet nights of the year, spotted salamanders poke their rounded snouts out of their burrows, then start an annual trip to the ponds where they mate.

It’s a crawl that takes salamanders and other amphibians through the forest—and often across busy roads. “On a ‘Big Night’ when lots of amphibians are moving, you’ll see hundreds and hundreds,” says Larry Clarfeld, who helped develop an amphibian monitoring program at Vermont’s North Branch Nature Center. “But from a car, a spotted salamander just looks like a stick.”

So Vermont’s nature lovers have formed teams of volunteers to help the amphibians make the trip across the “squish zone” in safety. Networks of websites broadcast migration forecasts, create training videos, and encourage locals to add their nearest road crossing to a growing Amphibian and Reptile Atlas. And when the conditions are right, the volunteer crossing guards don raincoats and reflective vests, then head into the dark to scoop up salamanders in their bare hands for the trip across the road.

Salamanders are often dazzled by oncoming headlights, frozen in place until a volunteer arrives. “It’s as simple as moving them in the direction they’re going,” said Clarfield, “moving them off the road and a little way into the leaf litter.”

crossing

These Big Nights in Vermont are a fleeting encounter with creatures that spend most of their time hidden underground or nestled under piles of leaves. Salamanders are easy to miss, moving through the world almost entirely unseen by humans—until they set out on the road to romance.

If you take a walk through the Vermont woods in springtime, you’ll be eavesdropping on a forest full of love and longing. A chorus of wood frogs and spring peepers chirp to their mates. Squirrels grapple in the leaf litter, birds line their nests, and wildflowers unfurl tempting displays of pollen.

Safely arrived at vernal pools, the salamanders are quiet, with no flashy calls or croaks. Look past the surface, though, and you’ll find an erotic display worthy of the Kama Sutra. Spotted salamanders brush their noses across their partners’ cheeks, nudging and rubbing on the muddy pond floor. The males twist their bodies in the water, swirling and turning to attract the attention of females, who are often vastly outnumbered and have their pick of partners. As the salamanders writhe, their limbs, tails, and snouts blend together in a mass of yellow spots and dark skin.

But by the time the trees grow leaves, the salamander season of love is done. Breeding concluded, spotted salamanders and other amphibians return to a more solitary life. Back at the road, volunteers take down “Salamander Crossing” signs, hang up their raincoats, and turn in careful lists of amphibian counts. Because until spring comes again, Vermont’s spotted salamanders are nowhere to be seen.

sal

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s Guide to Vermont

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trip Ideas

10 Under-the-Radar Honeymoon Destinations in Asia

Published

on

By

 Move over, Maldives. Fare thee well, Florence. Asia is home to some of the most exotic honeymoon destinations on the planet. From lush jungles and elephant camps to sapphire blue waters, snow-capped peaks, and old-world train journeys, the region spills over with under-the-radar experiences that will kick-start a lifetime of adventures.—Kate Springer

PHOTO: Four Seasons

Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle

Where: Chiang Rai, Thailand

There’s camping—and then there’s Four Seasons camping. Conceived by Bill Bensley Design, this colonial-inspired Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle is rustic luxury at its best. The 15 thatched-roof “tents” are all kitted out with handcrafted furniture, hardwood floors, claw-foot tubs, and 19th-century artifacts strewn about just so. Located in the Golden Triangle—where Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand meet—this romantic resort is ideal for outdoorsy types and adventure seekers. Not only is the Northern Thailand region known for its wild elephant herds, but there’s also easy access to jungle trekking, tea plantations, bamboo rafting, birdwatching, and riverside picnics. Of course, if you’re just there to relax and fall in love all over again, a Thai meal at the beautifully designed Nong Yao Restaurant, a private wine-pairing dinner in the Wine Cellar, or a few lemongrass martinis at the Burma Bar should keep the magic alive. This is the only all-inclusive Four Seasons in the world, so don’t hold back.

Getting There: The easiest access point is Chiang Rai in northern Thailand. From there, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive to the Golden Triangle.

Insider Tip: Want to have breakfast with wild elephants? There’s a specially built platform above their habitat where guests can enjoy tea and coffee while the beautiful animals roam below.

PLAN YOUR VISIT: Fodor’s Chiang Rai Guide

PHOTO: Ralf Tooten

St. Regis Lhasa

WHERE: Lhasa, Tibet

Tibet is known for many things—sacred temples, snow-capped peaks, cliff-side retreats, the Dalai Lama—but it’s also a romantic honeymoon destination in its own right. Perfect for culture hounds and adventure enthusiasts, the Himalayan outpost offers unrivalled natural beauty in its shimmering lakes, sun-kissed rice paddies, and colorful monasteries. While there are lots of rustic bed-and-breakfast options for a budget-friendly adventure in “The Roof of the World,” an influx of luxury properties offer modern amenities and a romantic touch. Head to the St. Regis Lhasa Hotel or the Shangri-La Lhasa for all-out bliss in this mountain paradise.

Getting There: Tibet has strict visa regulations that render independent travel off-limits, so you’ll need to book a tour guide. Work with a travel agency to ensure you’re all good to go.

Insider Tip: Plan to visit in April or May, when the ice starts to melt and the sun comes out.

PLAN YOUR VISIT: Fodor’s Tibet Guide

PHOTO: Kate Springer

Qi Palawan

Where: El Nido, The Philippines

When it comes to affordable vacations, The Philippines remains one of the best-value destinations on earth. If island hopping is high on your honey’s wishlist, then make a beeline to El Nido and the surrounding Bacuit, toward the northern end of Palawan Island. Known for its dramatic karst mountains and white-sand beaches, this remote archipelago offers a long list of romantic and barefoot-luxe hotels. Skip the busy downtown hotels and head instead to an intimate outfits such as Cauyan Resort—hidden away on a lush island off the coast. Or head an hour outside of town to seven-cottage Qi Palawan, which sits at the northern edge of the island where spotless beaches, snorkeling, and untouched forests await.

Getting There: Skip the five-hour bus ride from Puerto Princesa, and fly straight from Manila to the El Nido airport.

PLAN YOUR VISIT: Fodor’s Philippines Guide

PHOTO: Sal Salis

Sal Sals

Where: Ningaloo Reef, Australia

Not Asia, but a great side trip if you’re on this side of the world! Located on the Ningaloo Reef, about an hour’s drive from Exmouth in western Australia, Sal Salis is one of those middle-of-nowhere experiences that you’ll talk about for the rest of your happily married lives. Centering around the main lodge where guests enjoy breakfast as they watch the waves break at sea, the 16 tents sit along the Australian coastal dunes inbetween the Cape Range National Park and incredible gorges. As the retreat is all about celebrating and supporting the environment, travelers can expect solar-generated electricity, composting bathrooms, and all-natural soaps and shampoos. Of course, with proximity to the Ningaloo Reef, the main draw is the ocean itself. The list of activities is endless—think snorkeling, sea kayaking, bird spotting, gorge walks, boat trips, whale shark swims (April-July), humpback whale swims (August-October), and more.

Insider Tip: Be sure to plan ahead. This camp is only open from March to October—and it books up quickly with only 16 wilderness lodges, one of which happens to be an extra-spacious honeymoon tent with the best views of the beach.

Getting There: Qantas flies daily to Exmouth from Perth, with connections from other Australian capital cities.

PLAN YOUR VISIT: Fodor’s Australia Guide

PHOTO: Sebastian Posingis

Ceylon Tea Trails

Where: Tea Country, Sri Lanka

Picture rolling green hills as far as the eye can see. Considered Sri Lanka’s most prestigious tea bungalow experience, Ceylon Tea Trails pays homage to English gardens, nostalgic furniture and roaring fires of days gone by. More like private houses than a hotel, each of the five intimate properties—all scattered across Sri Lanka’s tea country—features beautifully appointed rooms, sweeping lawns, discreet butlers, and expert chefs who whip up multi-course lunches and wine pairings as part of the all-inclusive experience. What better way to toast your marriage than with a gimlet in hand and a sunset over the hills of Sri Lanka.

Insider Tip: There’s a complimentary shuttle that will cart you between bungalows if you’re interested the comprehensive Tea Trails experience.

Getting There: Sri Lanka tea country is about a six-hour drive from Colombo’s international airport.

PLAN YOUR VISIT: Fodor’s Sri Lanka Guide

PHOTO: Amanikan

Raja Ampat Expedition

Where: Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Comprising 1,500 tiny islands, this idyllic archipelago in West Papua has managed to stay under-the-radar while other areas of Indonesia capsize with tourists. Thanks to a rich marine habitat and pristine coral reefs, Raja Ampat is a dream destination for sea-loving souls. The options are endless in these crystal-clear waters—you can fill your days with diving, sailing, exploring the rainforest, or simply lounging by the beach. If you’re looking to splurge, sail through the islands in pure luxury aboard the Amanikan or Amandira. Operated by Aman hotels, both cruisers offer five- and seven-night voyages that take off from Sorong and set sail for the horizon.

Insider Tip: It’s worth getting your Scuba certificate beforehand to get the most out of your trip, as Raja Ampat is said to have one of the densest marine habitats on earth.

Getting There: Fly into Sorong, in West Papua, and arrange a boat to reach your destination.

PLAN YOUR VISIT: Fodor’s Indonesia Guide

PHOTO: Eastern & Oriental Express

Eastern & Oriental Express

Where: Southeast Asia

There’s nothing like a romantic train ride to ring in your nuptials—and the one and only Eastern & Oriental Express will be an adventure to remember. Chugging from Singapore to Bangkok with stops in Penang and Kuala Lumpur, the nostalgic experience transports honeymooners to the golden age of train travel. Picture luxury cabins, fine-dining cars, classic cocktails, on-call butlers, and piano music fluttering through the air. The signature six-night journey, dubbed “Fables of the Peninsula,” starts at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore and winds its way up through Malaysia, stopping in Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Penang, and finishing in Huay Yang, Thailand, about 185 miles outside of Bangkok.

Insider Tip: A teakwood train car at the back of the train is the best for sightseeing along the way.

Getting There: The Eastern & Oriental train departs from Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore.

Read More: Fodor’s 10 Most Unforgettable Train Rides

PHOTO: Courtesy of Song Saa Island

Song Saa Island

Where: Koh Rong Archipelago, Cambodia

Cambodia might not jump to mind as a world-class beach destination—but it’s an up-and-comer that’s as romantic as they come. For a luxurious getaway with an eco-friendly focus, check out Song Saa Private Island in the Koh Rong Archipelago. Known in Khmer as the “sweetheart” island, Song Saa is a family-owned property that’s been nothing short of a labor of love. Husband-and-wife duo Rory and Melita Hunter worked with the surrounding community to clean up the islands and set up Cambodia’s first marine reserve. Since then, their environmental efforts have brought marine life back to the waters so guests can now kayak, snorkel, scuba, and sail around the secluded coves. The couple designed every detail of the resort’s 27 overwater villas using reclaimed driftwood furniture, thatched roofs, stones, and local resources whenever possible.

Insider Tip: Pair the experience with a trip to Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh, and you’ll have quite the adventure.

Getting There: To get to Song Saa, travelers can fly to Sihanoukvill via Siem Reap or Phnom Penh. From there, the resort arranges a private boat to reach the island.

PLAN YOUR VISIT: Fodor’s Cambodia Guide

PHOTO: COMO Bhutan

COMO Bhutan

WHERE: Bhutan

There’s nothing more remote than the snow-capped mountains of Bhutan—especially in a helicopter tour with COMO Hotels. The pioneering wellness brand recently launched a picture-perfect, six-night Scenic Heli-Adventure that travels between the brand’s two Bhutan properties: four nights at COMO Uma Paro and two nights at COMO Uma Punakha. The cozy chalet-style lodges will make newlyweds fall in love all over again with sanctuary-like spas, a 60-minute COMO Shambhala body treatment, and complimentary yoga sessions. One of the most remote corners of the world, this hidden paradise has a bit of everything, from trekking to archery, white-water rafting, Bhutanese monasteries, mystical mountains, turquoise lakes, lush valleys and idyllic rice paddies.

Insider Tip: COMO’s spas cater to honeymooners, so treat yourselves to a couple’s treatment like the Bhutanese hot stone bath.

Getting there: Bhutan has specific visa requirements for travelers, so read up on it ahead of the trip.

PLAN YOUR VISIT: Fodor’s Bhutan Guide

PHOTO: SPH Magazines

Aqua Mekong

WHERE: Southeast Asia

Balancing contemporary design with rustic river vibes, the 205-foot Aqua Mekong will totally change the way you think about cruises. Instead of hordes of people and never-ending buffets, the Aqua Mekong experience revolves around intimacy and bespoke services, spa treatments, plunge pools, sun-downers, and river-view balconies—not to mention world-class fine dining David Thompson, a Michelin-starred chef from Australia. The luxury outfit traverses the waterways of Cambodia and Vietnam, with stop-offs to explore picturesque rice paddies and remote floating villages for an off-the-beaten path experience.

Insider Tip: Ask about the exclusive dinner options—the crew will set up a private couple’s tables on the top deck of the boat so you can lap up a bottle of wine under the stars.

Getting There: Cruises take off from ports in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, Cambodia.

PLAN YOUR VISIT: Fodor’s Mekong Delta Guide

Continue Reading

Trip Ideas

10 Best Family-Friendly Amusement Parks in the U.S.

Published

on

By

PHOTO: Courtesy of Disney

Providing picture-perfect moments and memories to last a lifetime, amusement parks are ideal places for family fun, but not all parks are designed for smaller visitors. Featuring the conveniences and necessities that children demand and parents appreciate, the country’s 10 best family-friendly amusement parks deliver a treasured day of thrills and laughs for kids and their keepers. Expect carousels, animatronic dinosaurs, and real bulldozers as these parks push the limits of innovation and creativity in the name of fun. — Zachary Laks

PHOTO: Courtesy of LEGOLAND California Resort

LEGOLAND

WHERE: Carlsbad, California

Brick by brick, LEGOLAND stacks up to a full day of fun for the family in Southern California. Packed with activities, rides, and endless photo opportunities, the park expands into ten themed areas, with themes from Dino Island, where dinosaurs guard their territory, to Castle Hill, a province where kings and queens rule. The park achieves a good mix of thrills to keep adults engaged, particularly in the water park where the Twin Chasers slides propel riders down an enclosed red tube at intense speeds. Don’t miss out on the park’s SEA LIFE Aquarium where the Moon Jellyfish exhibit showcases the mystical sea creatures.

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s Carlsbad Guide

PHOTO: Courtesy of Disney

Disneyland Park

WHERE: Anaheim, California

Home to magic for the whole family, Disneyland remains an enchanted oasis of family fun that consistently delivers. Disney’s incomparable theming sets the standard with immersive attractions, from the iconic Pirates of the Caribbean boat tour to the high-tech Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, where riders compete to beam lasers at targets. Splash Mountain remains a park favorite for families with its adventurous log flume that finishes with a picture-perfect drop, while those looking for a more thrilling adventure should explore the cursed temple at Indiana Jones Adventure on an awe-inspiring rugged transport tour. Endless opportunities to dance along with a street parade, meet and interact with Disney’s famous characters, and even train to be a Jedi at the Jedi Training Academy make for a vacation unlike any other.

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s Disneyland Guide

PHOTO: Courtesy of Sesame Place

Sesame Place

WHERE: Langhorne, Pennsylvania

About thirty minutes northeast of Philadelphia, Sesame Street’s lovable puppets come to life at Sesame Place, a 14-acre children’s amusement park. Elmo, Big Bird, and Cookie Monster are just some of the many friendly, furry characters kids can expect to encounter as they make their way through the cheerfully bright park. Sesame Place offers a thrill for everyone, with nearly all of the park’s rides built for children and adults alike. Highlights among the rides include the Vapor Trail mini steel coaster and the always-dependable spinning cups at Monster Mix-Up. For a respite from the commotion of the park, pop into one of the park’s shows, most notably Elmo the Musical, where the magic of the stage has the power to quiet and calm.

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s Pennsylvania Guide

PHOTO: Courtesy of Disney

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

WHERE: Orlando, Florida

At the forefront of family entertainment for years, Disney’s newest Walt Disney World theme park, Animal Kingdom (in operation since 1998), is the world’s second largest theme park (after Six Flags Great Adventure, New Jersey). Built with families in mind, younger children rejoice at the hands-on, interactive spirit of the nature-centric park. Get up close to the cute and cuddly animals at Affection Section, where sheep, donkeys, cows, and pigs are on hand to pet, brush, and feed. The fun continues at The Boneyard, the park’s archeological dig site that welcomes children ten and under to discover dinosaur fossils and explore the world of dinosaurs. And for those 44 inches or taller and looking for a premium thrill, don’t pass up the opportunity to challenge Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain, a thrilling steel roller coaster that weaves throughout the Himalayan mountain setting.

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s Disney World Guide

PHOTO: Courtesy of Santa’s Village Azoosment Park

Santa’s Village Azoosment Park

WHERE: East Dundee, Illinois

In a year-round tribute to the world’s most thoughtful man, Santa’s Village Azoosment Park manages to deliver summertime Christmas spirits that feel joyous and welcome. The park added its nineteenth ride to its kid-friendly roster last season with the Wildcat Roller Coaster, a steel mini-coaster that delivers genuine thrills with its drops and banked turns. The park’s animals offer a fun diversion, especially the Alaskan Railway, a train ride past reindeer, bobcats, and foxes. Complete the day with one of the treats from Tinselbella’s Pizzeria where fried candy bars, Oreos, and Twinkies leave no option but to indulge.

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s Illinois Guide

PHOTO: Courtesy of Indiana Beach Amusement Resort

Indiana Beach Amusement Resort

WHERE: Monticello, Indiana

Indiana Beach Amusement Resort overwhelms with enough family-centric activities to fill a long weekend. Families descend on the park for the dozens of accessible rides for children and its expansive water park. The park’s Kiddyland features some old-time classics like the merry-go-round and a miniature Ferris wheel alongside some more adventurous rides like the Air Crow, where kids pilot their own flying plane, revolving at their own elevation. For the park’s favorite nightly tradition, get your seats early for the World’s Longest Running Ski Show, a traditional ski show that features daredevil stunts, impressive jumps, and the classic water ski pyramid.

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s Indiana Guide

PHOTO: Courtesy of Victorian Gardens

Victorian Gardens

WHERE: Central Park, New York City

With the faint murmurs of the city abuzz from beyond the Central Park tree line, the Victorian Gardens transports the younger set out of the city and into a fairground. The park is centrally located on Wollman Rink (used as an ice skating rink in the winter months) just steps away from one of the most popular entrances to the park at 59th and Fifth Avenue. Over a dozen attractions pop up, including bumper boats, flying swings, and Mini Mouse, the park’s miniature roller coaster. Smaller and more compact, Victorian Gardens is the perfect start to a day exploring Central Park where treasures such as the Central Park Zoo (and its accompanying Tisch Children’s Zoo) and a visit to the Alice in Wonderland statue are family favorites.

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s New York City Guide

PHOTO: Courtesy of Diggerland USA Marketing Team

DiggerLand USA

WHERE: West Berlin, New Jersey

Making childhood dreams a reality, construction zones become play pits at DiggerLand USA, the country’s first and only construction theme park. Children of all ages are finally able to get behind the controls of some of the world’s most intense construction equipment, driving, riding, and operating the bright yellow machines. Twenty-eight attractions fill the park with a bustling energy unlike any other theme park in the country, as many of the massive machines on site are nearly identical to the ones you’d see on a real construction site. And to get the full scope of what these powerful machines can do, the park’s daily Stunt Show features “heavy equipment acrobatics” (wheelies, fast turns, and kick-stands) operated by the park’s four lead stuntmen.

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s New Jersey Guide

PHOTO: Story Land by Dennis Jarvis CC BY-SA 2.0

Story Land

WHERE: Glen, New Hampshire

Taking a page from classic fairy tales that have been passed down through generations, Story Land excels at reinventing timeless, treasured characters. Of the park’s twenty-one kid friendly attractions, the Roar-O-Saurus coaster remains a major draw, along with the park’s Bamboo Chutes log flume. Six shows at the park provide entertainment throughout the day with shows such as Fun Times at Fairy Tale High, which follows the magical students of Headmistress Mother Goose. If you’re running near empty come mid-afternoon, make it a priority to drop into Tea Time with Cinderella (for an additional per person fee), where children have the opportunity to sip tea amidst royalty.

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s New Hampshire Guide

PHOTO: Courtesy of Dutch Wonderland

Dutch Wonderland

WHERE: Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Touted as a “Kingdom for Kids,” Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster, Pennsylvania has been delivering perfect days of family fun since 1963. Start with a stroll through the park’s Prehistoric Path, which features more than twenty animatronic dinosaurs on a self-guided walking tour. Be sure to grab a park map and continue the morning with the Gondola Cruise, the Monorail, and the Sky Ride, the three best ways to scout out the rest of your day in the park. And when it comes to lunch, go for broke with the indulgent fresh cut fries at the Potato Patch, where cheese, gravy, and bacon bring the spuds to the next level.

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s Lancaster Guide

Continue Reading

Trip Ideas

Journey Through Japan on a New Luxury Train

Published

on

By

japan train

East Japan Railway (JR East) recently launched their newest luxury train service with itineraries that are already sold out through the year. Two- to four-day trips take travelers past Japan’s beautiful scenery, including forests, mountains, and coastlines. JR Easts stresses that though the country is small, it has a complex and varied landscape.

japan train2

According to JR East, the train has been styled to combine “traditional Japanese aesthetics with a futuristic spirit,” with designs mean to evoke a “quiet forest.”

train2
japan train6

The train includes glass-walled observatory cars and a lounge with a piano bar. The most luxurious suites on the train are split-level with two beds, a living room, and a bath tub.

train3

Because the service is currently sold out through March of 2018, JR East has devised an application process to purchase a fare, from which winning travelers are drawn. Apply here and good luck!

train5

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit Fodor’s Guide to Japan

Continue Reading
Advertisement Save on your hotel - www.hotelscombined.com

Denmark Hotels

Advertisement

Canada Hotels

Trending