Makgadikgadi Salt Pans BotswanaBotswana is a favorite travel destination among a myriad of eco-enthusiasts who are attracted by the large game reserves stocked in abundance with bird life and game that make up close to 17% of a country the size of Texas. Popular destinations include the Okavango Delta, the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, and the echoing central Kalahari Desert. 

Geography

Botswana is a dry land marked by characteristically rolling plateaus. The central Kalahari Desert extends across 70% of the area. To the north lies the Okavango Swamp, which is claimed to be the biggest inland delta on earth. To the east lie the vast salt pans of Makgadikgadi, which are so immense they are already visible on Google Earth when half the continent still fills the screen. Almost all the economic activity takes place along the South African border – beyond this, the people eke out a perilous existence except where game reserves or diamond mines intervene.

Elephant Rock Valley of Fire

Only a few miles from Las Vegas lies Nevada’s oldest and, according to this author, one of its prettiest State Parks. Valley of Fire offers fantastic scenery for photographers, pleasant hikes outside the scorching summer months, and petroglyphs for the historian in you.

The close proximity to Las Vegas makes this one of the most visited parks in Nevada, which still does not mean much by California standards. A few large coach busses shuttle people here every day and a couple of intimate tours from Las Vegas arrive as well, but you can easily avoid them if you come with your own car. Hike just a mile from the beaten path and you will find yourself alone amidst one of the strangest landscapes in the west.

Highlights of Austria

If you love incredible views where you see rapid changes between high Alpine meadows, mountain peaks, deep blue lakes and lush green meadows, then a trip to Austria is for you.

Almost any route you choose to take will be beautiful. It’s one of those countries where you can’t go wrong. Having driven the length and breadth of Austria many times I have planned for you one of my favorite itineraries that will take to  one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Europe, to spectacular lakes and to majestic mountains.

Allow for at least three to four days for this trip. You can easily stay longer.

Slovenia

Pennsylvania is named the "Keystone" state because of its integral part in the historical vote for independence and for being the supporting vote for a new government. 

Besides being known as the "Keystone" state, Pennsylvania has several other nicknames, including the "Quaker" state -named for the religion of the Quaker William Penn who settled the state. The "Coal" state, the "Oil" state and also the "Steel" state are three additional nicknames for Pennsylvania due to the state's three largest industries.

Golden Gate Bridge with SkylineSan Francisco’s most recognized landmark is the Golden Gate Bridge. It is the nation’s most photographed structure and a beautiful romantic backdrop imaginable. Its name comes from the strait it crosses which was the entrance for most gold diggers and fortune hunters during the time of the big gold rush.

Edinburgh, ScotlandEdinburgh is one of my favorite destinations in Europe. It's a fabulous to visit during one of the exciting summer festivals, but it's also a great place for a weekend getaway. Edinburgh is even fine for an off-season retreat, provided you bring warm clothes. Between the attractions in the Old Town and New Town, you feel as if you're visiting two destinations, yet it's incredibly easy to get around in and between both areas.

Kruger National ParkIf you've ever dreamed of going on an African safari adventure, you'll probably be surprised to discover how easy it is to arrange one. I decided to make Kruger National Park in South Africa the focal point of my safari, and it was a wonderful experience from start to finish.

You can plan and arrange an African safari at Kruger National Park in several ways. You may wish to arrange a safari that lasts several days and includes accommodations within the Park as part of a guided safari tour. You could also choose to stay in accommodations you book yourself just outside the Park. You can then take the safari tour of your choice within the Park, or explore it on your own via your Rental Car.