The popularity of kayaking as an adventure sport is on the rise. It’s difficult to pass up the prospect of getting outside and enjoying nature while giving your upper body a workout. There are so few recreational sports that give that kind of opportunity, it’s no wonder kayaking is experiencing a growing status.

Compared to other types of water sports, kayaking is an intimate experience. You and the water in a symbiotic relationship that can become spiritual, or the water can be a worthy opponent that you must conquer. Either way, the popularity of kayaking cannot be denied.

If you’ve already been bitten by the kayaking bug, you may be in the market for a boat that meets your needs and style. Kayaks can be expensive. Good equipment is most certainly expensive when purchased new. But like a good car, a good kayak can be bought on the secondary market at a good savings, still giving you the quality you want.

You first need to determine the style of boat you’re looking for. Kayaks fall into five general classes: surf, whitewater, expedition models, day trip and general recreation. Within each class you can probably find inflatable, folding and rigid models.

Rigid kayaks are made of several materials. A plastic kayak is the most durable, least expensive and heaviest option. Wood kayaks are often beautiful. Many kayakers build wood kayaks from a kit, but they do need regular maintenance. The fiberglass kayak is the most expensive option and the lightest style. They can be damaged more easily than the other two options but are the easiest to repair.

It is important to determine the classification of kayak you are looking for. This will affect the on board storage potential and overall shape and size of the kayak. If you will be handling the boat alone, weight will be an issue to consider. If storage and transportation space for your kayak is a problem, the folding or inflatable type might be your style.

Just as you would a used car, always inspect a used boat carefully. Look for any damage that may need repair or damage that has already been repaired. Plastic kayaks are tough, but since repairs are difficult you may want to steer clear of any suspicious body work. Fiberglass is easy to repair so look for paint patches and check the soundness of the repair. An inflatable boat repair can be tricky and should be considered carefully before purchase. An inspection of the hull looking for uneven areas or divots is important to determine overall safety.

Don’t be afraid to look at the big name high quality used kayaks. You may find a real bargain that is well worth the investment. Unless you are planning to compete, race or learn some tricks, a used kayak can be a better investment than a new one.
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The man in your life can sometimes be a little difficult to buy for – especially when there are so many gift ideas available. The problem is compounded when you take into account the fact that as far as you’re aware – he already has everything he needs.

But there is a raft of gift ideas for men that can sometimes get overlooked. While tangible, physical gifts can frequently seem like the only option – there is also the possibility of the experience day gift. Giving a man something to do rather than something to hold can often have many of the benefits of an actual gift. One of the major factors in getting something new, is the ability to show off that gift to friends. The experience gift is something that can also be shown off with pride – in terms of being the main focus of a story.

Of course, these kinds of stories don’t need to exactly be jumping out of a plane – although there indeed gift ideas for man of this nature too. It can mean anything from canyoning and caving to driving extremely fast sports cars around a track.

Sometimes we forget just how to have fun – or at least the adrenaline pumping fun that can result from some experience days. When choosing one of the many gift ideas for men, it can be good to give the man in your life a gift that takes them out of the normal, out of the hum drum – and puts them in a place mentally that they may not have been in for some time.

While there are quieter activities, it is most likely that, being a man, he will appreciate the excitement of something that will introduce adrenaline into his bloodstream. Diving is perhaps one of the more low key activities in terms of adrenaline – however there is likely to be a very high level of excitement doing this too. Diving underwater with a multitude of colourful sea life is something that is likely to provide some unforgettable memories.

These kind of gift ideas for men are often the kinds of presents that a man is less likely to by for himself – as they requires planning and time and money; and in today’s society, we don’t always have these valuable commodities.

With luck, this article has demonstrated the wide range of gift ideas for men that are available, so that finding something unusual is less problematic.
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Inflatable kayaks have come a very long way over the years as far as construction and performance are concerned.  They are no longer considered rubber dinghies.  In fact they are actually considered to be some of the safest boats in the world.  Using an inflatable kayak is exhilarating.  Transport them in the trunk of your car to any destination, inflate it within minutes and enjoy a fun-filled day of paddling on the water.  If you have considered using one of these great watercrafts then you are probably wondering which are the best inflatable kayaks to use.

There is a lot of choice of different makes and models of inflatable kayaks.  They will differ by size, weight, load capacity, performance and of course by price.  I have compiled a list of what I believe to be five of the top inflatable kayaks on the market at this time.

Top 5 Inflatable Kayaks

Sea Eagle 380x – This Sea Eagle explorer kayak is a great deal.  It is extremely versatile and can be paddled in any type of water, including flatwater, whitewater rapids, and ocean swells.  It is super rugged and getting a puncture is very unlikely.  It can be paddled by any person of any age as well as of any skill level.  Light enough to still bring traveling yet large enough to comfortably fit two people and possibly a dog.  It can also be converted into a solo kayak as well.  The 380x is not especially speedy but it is extremely comfortable and stable.  The value for the money is phenomenal and it is backed by a three year warranty.

Aire Lynx – Aire kayaks are very well known in the inflatable kayak world.  They have a reputation for excellence and the Aire Lynx is no exception.  Backed by a phenomenal ten year warranty, you can be sure that you are getting a quality inflatable boat.  The Lynx is an all day river adventure kayak.  Built for whitewater kayaking it can handle water with rapids up to class IV with ease and grace.  This is an extremely popular kayak and the price range is middle of the road.

Innova Sunny – What I love about the Sunny is that it is a great inflatable kayak for everyone.  This boat weighs only twenty-nine pounds and can easily be carried onto an airplane.  It is perfect for traveling and also perfect for families, dogs, camping and any calm water paddling.  It comes with a removable tracking fin that really helps in open water and two comfy seats.  The Sunny is an all around great deal and will likely satisfy any recreational kayaker.

Airis Angler – The Angler as the name suggests is an inflatable fishing kayak.  Many fishermen may not consider using a kayak for their fishing expeditions but the Angler is sure to change their mind.  This boat has every feasible option and accessory for a long and enjoyable day out fishing.  Also it is light enough to pack on an airplane to get to that remote yet perfect fishing spot.  A little higher priced than the others listed here, the Angler does not disappoint.

Advanced Elements Advanced Frame Convertible – This kayak is a tandem kayak that can be converted into a solo.  A beautiful looking boat, it comes with an optional spray deck as well as an optional rudder for better tracking.  A little heavier than most, it is not as ideal for traveling (though still possible).  It is however a very affordable inflatable kayak that gives great performance and lots of accessory options.  This inflatable looks more like a hard-shelled kayak in design and paddles very well.

These five inflatable kayaks are my favorite at this time.  There are however so many options and it is a wise idea to read as many reviews as you can to get a better idea of how other people have felt about the kayak you are interested in.  By comparing the different features and specs of the different kayaks available it will not be hard to find one that will suit your needs and lifestyle. 
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Looking for a break from cell phones, bosses, traffic lights, and noise pollution? Enjoy camping with a little adventure? Give an overnight, multi-day river trip a try! Challenge the whitewater rapids during the day, and enjoy gourmet camp cuisine by fire light at night. This is the perfect alternative, active vacation. A chance to escape from it all with a little taste of wilderness adventure! Multi-day river trips are the perfect way to experience great whitewater, stunning scenery, wildlife, and some of the world’s best camping. Not sure where to start? Read on for a few tips on planning your next adventure! The first step is choosing who, where, and when. Who will be going on the trip? Where do you want to go? When will you and all other participants be going? If you can answer these 3 questions, at least vaguely, then you’ve got a start to your next adventure.

Promote the trip to family, friends, work, or church groups! Word of mouth is always the best form of promotion. You can get the word out via e-mail or blog, hanging trip posters up in high traffic areas, and passing out flyers. A rafting trip is a great way to spend time together! If you’re organizing a church group or scouting trip, a fundraiser such as a car wash or bake sale can help generate funding for the trip. Deciding where to go and which river to raft can be a fun task for the whole group to participate in. There are a lot of good regional websites out there. Doing a search on Google, or Yahoo for whitewater rafting, followed by your state of choice will yield good results for outfitters who provide river trips. For example, whitewater rafting Colorado will generate the outfitters within Colorado. Surf through the various outfitter websites narrowing it down to the ones who offer trips with in your groups’ ability range and desired level of difficulty. Choose which outfitters appeal to your group the most.

The time of year you choose to go should largely be determined by the weather and seasonal river conditions. Many of the rivers in the west are dependent upon spring snow-melt for water. This limits the rafting season to about 3 or 4 months a year. Peak spring run-off usually occurs in early June. It can be a very wild ride during the peak melt. A class IV rapid can become class V. The water can be swift and cold, yet very exciting. June is usually reserved for those with previous rafting experience, good physical conditioning, and a real thirst for adrenaline! Chose your trip within your ability level, on more difficult trips the ability to swim well is a must! If the water is high consider doing an easier trip. The water will generally recede by July allowing for warmer air and water temps. Summer water levels are generally more user friendly. Trips vary in range of difficulty from class I, the easiest, to class V the most challenging rapids out there! Appoint a group leader to contact outfitters to get a better feel for what they provide on the trip. Ask about quality of gear, experience of guides, what is provided for in the cost, what you are required to bring, and what trips they offer. This will help you decide which outfitters will be a good fit with your group, as well learning what you’re getting for your money. Most outfitters will take the time to get to know you and your group on the phone to help them make informed recommendations for your trip. River outfitters generally provide group planning kits which include: Roster, payment information, “what to bring” list, and directions to the meeting location. Expect a 50% down payment to secure your launch date. This guarantees you will have a seat for everyone on the trip.

For an overnight river trip, it is recommended to get your reservation made 3 to 4 months in advance. Occasionally, short notice trips can be accommodated. Dates fill in fast, and outfitters operate on a first come, first serve basis. So get on the web and discover where your next adventure awaits! Get out there and get wet!
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Have You Ever Tried an Ocean Kayaking Tour?

What could better than slipping soundlessly through clear, sparkling Hawaiian waters, skimming over the open Pacific accompanied by dolphins and sea turtles? Imagine passing close to a humpback whale and her calf as they winter in warm Maui waters. Taking an ocean kayaking tour is the perfect way to experience this wonderful aspect of Hawaiian island life in a way that’s not only completely harmonious with the surroundings, but also gives you an intensely personal connection with the ocean and all its wonders.

Kayaking Basics

Sea kayaking trips range from a few hours to a many weeks. Developed for the active sport of paddling on lakes, bays and the open ocean, most ocean kayaks are made for one or two paddlers. Size and configuration of the kayak are determined by the type of trip you want to make; for example, specialized kayaks such as surf skis are narrower than the typical open-water ocean kayak. Some may have upturned bows, providing better performance into ocean waves and better wave-shedding properties. The length of the ocean kayak affects both its cargo capacity and the ease of staying in a straight line in the water–its “tracking” ability. Very long ocean kayaks are easier to paddle straight, but are harder to turn and maneuver, so they are used mainly for long, open-water trips. The width of the ocean kayak also affects the cargo capacity, the size of the cockpit and overall stability.

Recreational Sea Kayaks

Most recreational sea kayaks are molded in one piece with a “cockpit” to sit in, “foot wells” to brace the feet in a comfortable position with the knees slightly bent and a backrest to provide support and comfort. Hooks along the side and top secure accessories and gear for snorkeling. Some fishing kayaks have rod rests for open-ocean fishing. The one-piece construction eliminates any need of bailing or clearing out water from the hull in rough water or after an overturn. Modern molded sea kayaks are light and easy to transport, as well as easy to use.

Ocean kayak paddles for recreational use are usually made of aluminum, plastic or wood, with high-performance paddles formed of lightweight materials like carbon-fiber. Ocean kayak paddles are made of two spoon-shaped blades on the ends of a shaft, usually “feathered” or set at right angles to each other. As one blade pushes through the water, the other passes through the air at a right angle, reducing wind resistance.

The paddles are attached to the kayak with a tether, so you can’t accidentally lose it–no chance of being up the proverbial “creek without a paddle.” A few practice strokes in calm water will give even the rank beginner at sea kayaking a feel for how easy it is to move, turn and control the kayak. If you are a beginner, stick with short sea kayak trips for starters. Sea kayaking tour guides and rental businesses will be happy to show you just what to do. And remember, you can do this!

Ocean Kayaking Techniques

If the kayak overturns or if you have been enjoying open-water snorkeling in one of Maui’s secluded bays, you can get back into the kayak by following a few basic steps.

• If the kayak is upside down, reach across the bottom of the boat and grab the scupper holes or accessory hooks. Bring your knees up and onto the bottom of the boat. Lean back and the boat will roll over. Lighter kayaks can be flipped over easily.

• Position yourself near the cockpit area facing the kayak. Let your feet float to the surface behind you by floating on your stomach.

• Reach across the boat to the far edge and swim up and on the kayak so your bellybutton is across the centerline of the boat.

• Roll over on your backside, swing your feet into the foot wells, and you’re up and ready to go. If you miss the first time, just line up in the middle of the kayak again until you make it. Easy does it, and you’re ready to paddle again.

Of course, you shouldn’t forget the basic safety rules to prepare for that long-awaited kayaking trip onto Hawaiian waters. A little preparation can mean the difference between having a once-in-a-lifetime dream trip on Hawaii seas or a disappointing experience.

Follow These Simple Kayaking Tips:

• Always wear a life jacket. Coast Guard regulations require a lifejacket on all kayaks. Wearing the lifejacket will keep your head above water in case of an upset and add insulation to your body.

• If you are a beginner, seek qualified instruction to learn paddling and water safety techniques unique to ocean kayaking.

• Be aware of weather conditions and ocean water temperatures present in the area of Hawaii you plan to kayak. A wet suit or dry suit will keep you comfortable in cold waters, and a simple, long-sleeved shirt can provide protection from intense sun in warm conditions.

• If you are striking out on your own, tell someone your paddle plan, including: where you are going, what you will be doing, how long you expect to be gone and how many people are in your party. Then, do not vary from that plan.

• If you are taking an ocean kayaking tour in a new area on your own, check with the locals regarding currents, shoreline conditions and usual weather patterns. Have an escape route and an alternative place to get off the water if environmental conditions make it necessary. And remember to let someone know your alternative plan as well as well as the original one.

• Always have water and some food with you.

• Be aware of offshore winds that may make it difficult to return to shore.

Hawaii Ocean Kayak Tours

Fortunately for the casual ocean kayaking enthusiast and occasional visitor to Hawaii, ocean kayak tour operators can and will provide just the right kayak for whatever kind of kayaking tour you have in mind, along with life jackets, snorkel gear, reef shoes and fins. Kayaking tours provide instruction in basic ocean kayaking, lead groups to the best local spots for snorkeling, ocean fishing, wildlife observation and out-of-the-way Hawaiian beaches and coves. Local kayaking tour guides have a huge store of information to share about local Hawaiian landmarks, native traditions relative to the area, and all wildlife unique to Hawaii. Get out there on the water. Ocean kayaking tours are fun! Hanalei river kayaking on Kauai is also a blast.
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I’m looking for a website that searches ALL of the known travel ticket seach engines, including Orbitz.

So far, I’ve heard that Kayak is the best and it’s what’s used by most travel agencies.

Can anyone find better? 10pts.
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The capital of Wales is a popular tourist destination and vacation hotspot for travellers from all over Europe. Below a look at five reasons to visit Cardiff, Wales.

1. Castles – There are a number of castles in Cardiff, and the most popular one, Cardiff Castle, is over 2000 years old and is located right at the city centre. Cardiff Castle gives the city a distinctive character, and makes it a unique holiday destination in the country. The castle originally belonged to the Bute family and was remodelled in a gothic style in the year 1860. A tour of Cardiff Castle is one good reason to visit Cardiff, whether or not you enjoy historical tours.

2. Cardiff Bay- In the last decade or so, the city council has developed the Cardiff Docklands to recreate the charming Bae Caerdydd or Cardiff Bay. The Taff River and the Ely River provide water to the bay, creating a freshwater lake that spans 500 acres. The Cardiff Bay provides many excellent opportunities for water sports enthusiasts, hosting activities like sailing, water skiing and canoeing. The area is a great place for visitors to unwind and relax, boasting a number of restaurants, spas and luxury hotels on the shores of the Cardiff Bay.

3. Adventure Sport – For people who enjoy challenging themselves, there are a number of adventure sport activities available in and around Cardiff. Whether you indulge in it for recreation, or professionally, there are enough challenges available at Cardiff. The most common adventure sport on offer here is canyoning, an activity guaranteed to provide an adrenalin rush. Apart from this, there is also white water rafting, canoeing and kayaking. Other adventure sport activities on offer include paintball, quad biking, go-karts, clay pigeon shooting, caving and climbing.

4. Shopping- This city provides some of the best shopping options in Wales and possibly in the South-West parts of the United Kingdom. Cardiff offers shopping enthusiasts many stores and boutiques from popular designers and worldwide brands as well as a range of historic arcades, that sell merchandise, antiques and clothes based on the Edwardian and Victorian era.

5. Myriad of Experiences- Visitors to Cardiff have the choice of a number of different holidays packaged into one, whether they would like to take a break from the city and have an eco-holiday, enjoy a historical tour or participate in the many adventure and water sports offered here. Steeped in cultural heritage, Cardiff has enough to please even the most hardened of critics.
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The Grand River Rafting Company of Southern Ontario offers guided whitewater rafting for everyone on the Nith River near Paris. The little known Nith offers one of the best whitewater experiences in Southern Ontario and is one hour west of Toronto, fifteen minutes off Highway 403.

The whitewater rafting trips are 3 to 4 hours in length culminating with a 3 kilometer run of splash. The whitewater rafting trip starts in the hamlet of Canning. About half ways down the rafts pull over at Bus Beach for lunch and a washroom break… and then on to the final destination, Bean Park on the Grand River in Paris.

These guided trips start out in a wilderness setting banked by high clay bluffs treed with the Carolinian Forest. This narrow river brings the shoreline close creating excellent wildlife viewing opportunities of deer, fox, beaver and wild turkey. Further downstream are cascading drinkable springs at Devil’s Cave surrounded by limestone rockery. From this point the Nith River gathers speed creating standing waves and waterslides as it rushes to join the Grand River.

These whitewater rafting trips are a safe and exhilarating experience for families, schools and corporate rafting adventures. Size, age, agility and skill level do not matter… the self-bailing 8 man whitewater rafts offer a trip of stability and safety with splash.

The cost for the four hour whitewater rafting trip is $65 per person which includes guide, paddle, lifejacket and upstream shuttle ride. There are also guided fast water canoe and kayak trips available for small groups of one to six people.

For those wishing overnight accommodations in the area, the River Ridge Bed & Breakfast is available and can host up to twelve people. This B&B has an outdoor hot tub overlooking the Grand River Valley and offers an excellent country breakfast. The elegant Arlington Hotel in Paris is also available for overnight accommodation and includes fine dinning. Restaurants in Paris vary from fast food to Camp 31 with its award winning southern style barbeque.

If looking for a whitewater rafting experience in Southern Ontario… where river time exceeds traveling time… a spring day trip on the Nith River is worth the visit.
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Here are a few kayak fishing tips that can hopefully help you on your next fishing trip. An anchor trolley helps position your boat, so that you can apply more pressure when setting the hook. If you have the boat facing sideways to the fish, all of your energy is exerted sideways, into the water. This doesn’t provide you and leverage. However, if you have the kayak positioned with the nose facing the fish, when you set the hook, the energy travels the length of the boat, providing a lot more leverage. You can tell the difference when you put this one into practice, give it a shot the next time you are out. You gotta remember that these kayaks aren’t like the big rig boats, where you can swing for the fences when you set the hook. You have to properly position your boat to ensure the maximum power.

Since you can’t set the hook with the same power you have on big rig boats, I highly suggest using super sharp hooks. As a general rule, if the hook doesn’t stick to your skin, it isn’t as sharp as it could be. This doesn’t mean throwing a hook away as soon as it won’t stick to your skin. This does mean though, that if you can apply pressure, and it won’t pierce your skin, it won’t pierce a fishes strong mouth either. Sharp hooks also leave a smaller entry point. This heals quicker on fish, but also allows the barb on the hook to do its job. When you open up a wide hole in the fishes mouth, it takes him longer to recover, and he has a higher change of throwing the hook because there is nothing to grab onto.

The last of the kayak fishing tips that I have for you at this time, is to cover up your skin. I know you see the yuppy types in their khaki pants, blue long sleeve shirts, and hats with the drop down cloth in the back. They wear these because this type of clothing works to keep you cool, and from getting skin cancer. You will sweat, but the sweat keeps you cool, and being covered this much prevents bugs from biting at you. This all put together makes for a decent day out on the water, without dealing with the normal hassles your friends are dealing with. Yes, you are starting to look like a yuppy as well now too, but remember, what is more important? Comfort and life, or what your friends think of you?
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