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If you're tired of hiking the same trail or picnicking at the same park, then Geocaching may be exactly what you're looking for. Geocaching, pronounced gee-o-cashing, is the high tech version of a treasure hunt. Armed with nothing but a handheld GPS unit and a thirst for excitement, you're off for new adventures and the likelihood of finding a hidden cache.
Here's how it works. Geocachers seek out hidden treasures utilizing GPS coordinates posted on the Internet by those hiding the cache. So to geocache, you'll need a handheld GPS receiver. GPS, which stands for Global Positioning System, is the only system today able to show you your exact position on the Earth anytime, in any weather, anywhere. GPS satellites, 24 in all, orbit at over 11,000 miles above the Earth. The satellites transmit signals that can be detected by anyone with a GPS receiver. Using the receiver, you can determine your location with great precision. But just as important, you'll be able to locate other things too, such as a geocache. There are a variety of GPS receiver models to choose from starting at about $100.
Once you've got a GPS unit, you'll need to know where the caches are hidden (hint: they're everywhere). When a cache is hidden, the cache's coordinates are submitted to a website for all to see (www.geocaching.com). Enter the coordinates into your GPS and you're ready to go. Did I mention there are more than 100,000 caches in over 200 countries?
Sounds easy, doesn't it? Armed with a GPS and the coordinates, how tough can it be? In an urban area, easy access is typically available in the way of roads and trails. But what about on a mountain? What if there aren't roads nearby? It's entirely possible to be a few hundred feet from something and not be able to reach it (across a river or two hundred feet below the cliff you're on are good examples). After you try to find a few caches, you'll understand a number of the nuances of actually finding the cache. That's the fun part. Once you find the cache, there are a couple of simple rules. Sign the logbook and if you take something from the cache, be sure to leave something.
But what about placing a cache? That's fun too. Just be sure to follow the rules as outlined at www.geocaching.com. Once you're a seasoned geocacher, you'll try your hand at travel bugs, geo-teaming and benchmark hunting.
If you have only a couple hours to search for a cache, try to find one that is close by. If you have a couple days, take a family trip and make an overnight adventure out of it. Using your GPS along with your sense of adventure, you are bound to spend more time out of doors with people you enjoy. What could be better? Get Outdoors!
| ©2005 Chuck Fitzgerald. All rights reserved. |
You can read a hundred of the “10 Best Activities Hawaii has to Offer” and find as many lists with differing information. This is not because the lists are wrong, it is simply because there are so many amazing activities to do in Hawaii that each list maker can only include their top 10 favorites, which is why there are so many differences. Here are 10 more of the best activities in Hawaii, but they are generalizations that appeal to the general population and tourists heading to the islands for vacation. So, the best thing to do is read this
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The Benjarong is Thailand’s priceless contribution to Asian pottery. Once the prized possession of royal palaces and upper-class Thais, it is today, the pride and perfection of ancient Thai craftsmanship.
But what exactly is the Benjarong and why does it possess such magical qualities with sheer beauty and serenity? Read on to unravel the history and making of this ancient masterpiece.
During the early Ayutthaya period (1350 – 1767), Thai craftsmen made a somewhat crude multi-colored earthenware known today as the Benjarong – a term based on the Sanskrit words panch, meaning five, and rang, meaning colors, thus literally
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Hawaii is made up of several islands and Kauai is one of the most famous and certainly has many activities to occupy tourists on vacation. In fact, Kauai has so many things to do that you may not want to travel to any of the other islands because you are having so much fun! The Hawaiian island of Kauai is the oldest of all the Hawaiian islands and is known for its dense and beautiful foliage and flowers as well as its amazing strands of beaches. Whether you are heading to Kauai on a family vacation, honeymoon or business trip
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High spirits and vitality govern in abundance when in Barcelona. This infectious capital of Catalonia, and second largest city in Spain, exudes soul and energy, living life to the full. Barcelona's verve is matched by its magnificent architecture, characterised by one man's signature, Antonio Gaudi.
Running from seafront through to Placa de Catalunya, Las Ramblas is a fusion of market stalls and street entertainment. Watch out for the mime artists, though keep a hand on your wallet.
In progress since 1882, La Sagrada Familia is perhaps Antonio Gaudi's most magnificent achievement. As yet
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Are you a "coupon-cutter"? Well, if you're looking to find some Oahu activities discounts on your Hawaii vacation, you'll do well in Waikiki!
There are lots of discounts and coupons on Oahu attractions to be found, Waikiki coupons are good for discounts on Polynesian shows, sunset cruises, Hawaiian luaus, dolphin shows, zoo and aquarium, and submarine rides, just to name a few.
Usually what we do is just take an hour or two at the start of our Waikiki holiday and stroll down some of the main Waikiki avenues (Kuhio Ave, Kalakaua Ave and Lewers St. are 3 of our favorites). In
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