Where is the “happiest place on earth ?” Disneyworld claims it is and, though it is a great place to enjoy once in a while, the most satisfying place to live in the world is officially tiny Costa Rica, winner of the Happy Planet Index.

The Index measures three things: high life expectancy, high life satisfaction, and a low ecological footprint. 143 countries were rated, representing 99 per cent of the world’s population, and Costa Rica came out on top—by a lot.

The Happy Planet Index asked: 1. What is a person’s life expectancy ( premise: it is better to live longer than die young)? 2. While alive, how satisfied are people with the quality of their life (premise: living longer but miserably is not very satisfying)? 3. How much does a country cost the planet (premise: sustainable development is better than exhausting resources and has less effect on global warming) ?

Like me, you probably assume that the most developed nations will come in towards the top but that is not the case. Despite its wealth and power, the United States occupies number 114. England does better but still only ranks 74th.

There is a very dramatic difference between Costa Rica and the United States. Costa Ricans live slightly longer than Americans (and have universal, almost free coverage), report substantially higher levels of satisfaction with their life, and yet make a per capita carbon footprint 75% less than the States.

It is no accident that Costa Rica is at the top of the rankings The country is committed to sustainable development. While the Western world, China and India are committed to relying upon nonrenewable, nonsustainable resources (think oil) that are exhausting the planet’s resources and contributing to serious global pollution and warming, 99% of Costa Rica’s energy is completely renewable and sustainable. As developed countries dither about how to address power needs and meet the challenges of pollution and global warming, tiny Costa Rica has taken action. More than two decades ago, at a time when so many other countries were cutting and burning their forests, Costa Rica decided to go the opposite direction and now there are 20% more forested areas. Presciently, it has long denied oil drilling off its shores, choosing sustainability over exhaustion. And, in 2007 it became the first country to commit to being completely carbon neutral by 2021.

Costa Rica’s per capita income is only a fraction of that of the United States and other western countries but its ranking at number 1 in all the world is a model to emulate.

Writer Victor Krumm lives in Costa Rica. Go to his acclaimed website about Costa Rica Vacations and be sure to look at the spectacular Seven Wonders of Costa Rica

Jaco is a small, vibrant town in Costa Rica and a very popular place for students wanting some fun during spring break or summer vacation. But, not just students. Today, tourists from around the world visit Jaco year-round, though December to May are considered “high season” (the most people, the highest accommodation costs). Whatever month you want to visit, the Jaco area is the place to go for sun, great beaches and activities.

About a two hour drive from San Jose, this bustling town sits on the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. For many years, it has been one the most popular beaches in Costa Rica, in large part because of its nightlife. Its reputation as a fantastic “party beach” is now well known.

Over the years, many tourists have made this a favorite location for their visits, citing its casual, relaxed, laid back, friendly, party atmosphere. There are lots of great beaches nearby, some of which are very tranquil, all of which are gorgeous. Jaco has boomed over the last half dozen years or so. Where there was once a quiet little road (except at night) road through town, today there are towering high rises and resorts, and lots and lots of bars, restaurants, and shops.

College kids have long traveled to Jaco because of its “party beach” and cheap accommodations. There is great surfing and lots of bars and discos. They are joined by people of every age and background who come here to enjoy the many things to do and see. Today, there are many restaurants, taverns, tourist traps, and nightclubs to choose from. Whatever your budget, from luxury to basic (think hostels without hot water) there’s a place for you—-not to mention a tourist souvenir shop.

Though the beach directly in front of Jaco (Jaco Beach) has been very popular for many years, it is surpassed by nearby beaches (literally just a couple of miles/kilometers away). These beaches have fewer people and are some of the most ecologically pure in all of the world, bearing Blue Flag certifications for cleanliness. In particular, I recommend spectacular Hermosa Beach, just a couple of miles from Jaco. It is pristine and has some of the best surfing on the planet. In fact, in late July professional surfers from more than 35 countries are going to descend upon Hermosa in the days for world surfing championships—and party at night in Jaco.

There are dozens of different things to do and innumerable places to visit close at hand. Costa Rica is tiny but filled with interesting places and activities. Go whitewater rafting or learn to sea kayak. Take a horseback ride along the beach or through the mountains (if you’re into extreme riding, you can literally ride across Costa Rica from the Pacific to the Caribbean). Visit volcanoes, sit in volcanic hot springs, try rappelling in tropical mountains, go ballooning. Or just sit back and enjoy the great ocean views and beautiful, romantic sunsets. But, take care when swimming. Some of the beaches, wonderful for surfing, can be dangerous for swimming because of riptides. There are no lifeguards—and no warning signs—so ask if it is safe to swim before jumping in.

Consider chartering a boat for a trip to Costa Ricas world-famous fishing grounds. Huge marlin that can swim 70 miles an hour and leap 10 feet from the water await. Sometimes the schools of tuna or sailfish are thick. Whales travel from Antarctica to breed in the warm waters—as do their cousins from the Arctic. Think you came a long way? Imagine swimming thousands of miles!

First discovered by Christopher Columbus, today Costa Rica is discovered anew by folks from every place on the planet. Though it is only the size of West Virginia, one of every five species of plant and animal is found here. Travel Costa Rica when you visit Jaco. Bring a camera and your sense of adventure.

Mr. Vic Krumm lives in beautiful Costa Rica and and has a popular website Costa Rica Vacations. Visit here to see lots more Costa Rica Beaches

California’s Bay area is chock full of attractions for people of all interests. You will find more ways to fill your vacation that you dreamed of. It makes no difference in you have a family along with you, or you are taking a quick solo break from the pressures of your life, you will be glad you stayed in Monterey Bay hotels.

Your stay can be filled with adventures into the great outdoors, evenings of culture and arts, or even taking in the night life. The only limit to the possibilities is your own imagination. Either within the city, or within a short drive, you can locate what you came for.

The aquariums in the area are magnificent. If you are traveling with children in tow, then this will be something you do not want to miss. Go online and check out what special exhibits or events that they may have so that you can make the most of your time there. Kids will be awed at the opportunity to reach out and touch a shark or a sting ray. They will certain to come and brag to their friends about the awesome vacation they got to take.

The Redwood forest is a wonder of nature that you should not pass up. Much like other natural wonders, pictures do not come close to conveying the real experience of being there. When you walk through the center of one of these giants it tends to give a humbling feeling to lots of people. Take a picnic with you for the ride and make a day of it. Chances are, it will take all of your energy to make the trip anyway since it is a very high altitude.

The Golden Gate Bridge is something that simply must see before you leave. As you make your way through the city you will note that the weather changes suddenly and dramatically throughout the day, so wearing layers is a good idea.

Alcatraz prison has been closed for years, and is now a popular tourist attraction. Ride a ferry over and take a tour of the place. Learn about the security measures that were used. Hear interesting stories about the inmates that called this island home for many years.

Fisherman’s Wharf has a reputation known around the world. The rich history here is like no other. People flock from all over to to enjoy the dining, shopping, and family friendly activities that it has to offer. You can board a glass bottom boat and tour the bay on it, observing along the way all of the marine life. At the end of each day of your vacation you can come back to relax in Monterey Bay hotels.

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The natural surroundings and wealth of attractions around Monterey Bay offer visitors a lot to choose from. Golfers can enjoy world-class golfing at Pebble Beach, outdoor enthusiasts can stroll along the coastline at Big Sur and kids and adults alike can pear into the underwater world of the Bay at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. When it comes to accommodations in the area, Monterey Bay hotels have something for everyone.

Budget travelers can find a wealth of low cost hotels and motels along Fremont Street. Just one mile from downtown Monterey, Fremont Street offers clean, spacious rooms with a full range of amenities. Restaurants, pharmacies and supermarkets along Fremont Street provides travelers with everything they need, without breaking a budget.

Cannery Row offers vacationers a chance to stay in the heart of what visitors to Monterey want to see most. Restaurants, shops and the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium are all within steps of any Cannery Row hotel. Cannery Row hotels offer mid-range and luxury pricing.

The sleepy town of Pacific Grove offers travelers a chance to experience small town charm, while enjoying the spectacular coastline along the Bay. A number of small hotels, motels and bed and breakfast inns call Pacific Grove home. Asilomar Beach in Pacific Grove gives visitors a chance to enjoy one of the most pristine natural habitats in the Monterey Bay area, all within walking distance from many of hotels.

Carmel Village offers luxury accommodations, amidst the charm and elegance that life in the Village has to offer. Quaint inns and hotels in Carmel Village give visitors a great selection of accommodations to choose from. World-class dining, the white sands of Carmel Beach and a host of galleries make Carmel Village a truly unique place to stay.

Carmel Valley offers the best weather for those who love the sun. While morning fog blankets the Monterey Bay coastline, the sun shines brightly in Carmel Valley. Known for its tennis and golf resorts, Carmel Valley offers luxury accommodations and world-class fitness facilities.

Visitors who stay along the Big Sur coastline have the opportunity to escape from it all. Just a short drive away from downtown Monterey, Big Sur offers dramatic, natural beauty, among the best North America has to offer. Breathtaking scenery, luxury hotels and spectacular dining can all be found at a Big Sur hotel.

Monterey Bay visitors return home with lasting memories. Accommodations can serve to enhance any vacation. All visitors can find Monterey Bay hotels to fit their lifestyle and their travel budget.

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Spring break is all about partying, it’s about escaping the classroom and have the time of your life, it is about sunny beaches, and hot bodies. Oh and did we say it is about partying? Spring break in south Padre Island for college students equates to one thing, PARTYING.

Spring break in South Padre Island is definitely all about having fun. This is one of the southern most points in the United States and there is plenty of sunshine. The weather is fantastic in the spring, and it makes partying in the sun, a time that you will never forget.

The geographic location of party central is ideal, not only does it sit at the very southern tip of Texas (which makes it one of the southern most points in the great U. S. Of A.), but it is closely located to Mexico and some great Tequila and Mescal. Combine this with the idea that everything is blogger in Texas and you have one of the biggest party’s spots anywhere.

When the sun sets then the partying kicks into high gear. The nightlife here is fast and exciting. There are plenty of clubs to select from, each one offering a great place to party through the night. The great thing here is that everything is within walking distance, which means you don’t have to drive.

It is believed that it was spring breakers that put South Padre Island on the map. It is the tourist industry that keeps it alive, but spring break is what really makes the blood flow for this barrier island. There is plenty to do, that promises a good time for all.

While the beach is certainly a popular water spot, the Schlitterbahn provides a different type of recreation. The second of these world famous parks to be built in Texas, it is like everything else in Texas, Big on fun and activity, and some of the wildest water slides anywhere.

The west side of this island offers some waters that are perfect for enjoying water craft. There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy a jet ski or a sailboat. South Padre Island couldn’t be a Texas beach resort if there weren’t horses. There are opportunities to enjoy riding on the beach and enjoying the sights from the back of a horse.

Regardless of what you decide to do on your break, you will discover that it is true that God built this place so you could party. You will have such a good time you will forget everything you learned in class. However when you get back to school it will come back to you, that is if you can concentrate, and not day dream about next spring break.

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Along the Golf Coast, there are many places that you can enjoy the beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. In fact, on of the best places to visit the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico is in Florida. Florida is a peninsula that goes around the entire peninsula. Although many of the beaches in Florida are perfect for a beach vacation, the Island Keys is not ones of these places. Thanks to the beautiful climate and water the Keys is perfect for a vacation filled with water sports, but not much more than that.

Make sure to visit Key West and stand at the southern most point in the US and visit the Hemingway house to see all the freaky six toed cats wandering around. The other beaches in Florida are some of the best in the country. On the Atlantic side you have great destinations like the always hot and beautiful Miami Beach. Farther north there is Cocoa Beach which has the world famous Ron Jon store that is open 24/7. It is a tourist destination, but is still fun to visit. The beach is great for body surfing and surfing as well as just laying in the warm Florida sun.

There is more to Florida than just great beaches. There are many theme parks, including Disney, in the Orlando area. The east coast has Daytona Beach and along the Gulf of Mexico you can visit Tampa or Clearwater. All these destination are great for families, couples and friends.

While in Tampa you will find that it is a fun city with much to do. There is fine dining, sporting events and theme parks, such as Busch Gardens. Just a short ride across the bridge you can visit the Clearwater/St. Pete area. This area has some of the best beaches in Florida with lots of fun and night life.

South of St. Petersburg is Sarasota and Ft. Myers. There are many great seafood restaurants and Ft. Myers has one of the greatest art museums in the state. The Ringling Museum is the hot spot for artist scene and has one of the largest collections of fine art. There is so much to see and do, while visiting Florida, you may find yourself return each and every vacation.

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Beaches in Latin America have a well deserved great reputation and many vacationers describe the Costa Rica beaches as among the highlights of their Costa Rica vacation. Costa Rica has some of the very best beaches anywhere and offers something few other places can match. Great beaches on Pacific and Atlantic oceans so close together that either coast can be reached in just a few hours for vacationers. Azure waters. White sand. Brown sand. Black sand. Coral beaches.

Few visitors to Costa Rica appreciate its rich history or how it got its name. About 10 years after discovering the New World along the American coast, Christopher Columbus returned and sailed south. He became so enthralled with the Caribbean beaches he found here that he named his discovery Costa Rica! The name is Spanish for rich coast and has stuck for more than 500 years.

Do not be misinformed. Columbus was the first, but not the last, explorer. There are still a lot of places for visitors to discover for themselves. Costa Rica has nearly 800 kilometers of Caribbean coast. Its eastern coast is still largely undeveloped compared to the Pacific side of the country and has a unique Caribbean flavor. This is Bob Marley country.

For many eco tourists, no Costa Rica vacation is complete without experiencing one of the country’s Seven Wonders, Tortuguero National Park. Tortuguero is the largest nesting area for the green sea turtle in the western hemisphere. When Columbus landed, these oldest of reptiles, dating back millions of years before the first dinosaur, nested here in unfathomable numbers and surely provided fresh meat for his crew. For centuries, beaches here were some of the world’s largest hunting grounds for these gentle animals. That changed in 1961 when it was transformed into the world’s premier reserve and leading center for turtle monitoring and research. In addition to green sea turtles, three of the other six remaining endangered marine turtle species come ashore to nest. You will find a growing number of tours and lodges which service an increasing number of vacationers, eco tourists. Wildlife is very abundant and the rivers and ocean provide great fishing.

Limon is south of Tortuguero National Park but should not be thought of as a popular destination. Instead, expect to go through it to reach the wilderness areas of Tortuguero and Barra Honda beaches north or to head south to a number of small beach communities and. It is there that Puerto Viejo awaits. It boasts the world famous La Salsa Brava wave, a difficult large wave that challenges the best surfers on the planet, especially during the months from November and April. Surfers with little or less experience should avoid this beach, except to watch the best, and head to Playa Cocles. Great surfing, great fun, and not nearly as dangerous.

About 50 kilometers south of Limon and a short distance north of Puerto Viejo is Cahuita, a very small, laid-back community with miles and miles of pristine beaches, some nearly black and others pure white. September and October are the driest months of the year and visitors who come around October 12 take in Carnaval at Limon, a week-long fiesta celebrating Columbus Day. Cahuita is popular for its wonderful reef snorkeling around its two shipwrecks. Not a lot of nightlife here so head a few miles south to Puerto Viejo.

If you continue heading south, the Gandoco-Manzanillo Wildlife Reserve awaits nearly at the Panama border. This is where Columbus landed and named Costa Rica. Here he found, and you will, too, crystal clear pristine waters perfect for swimming. But, unlike him you will be able to go scuba diving at Costa Rica’s largest coral reef. The rare and recently discovered river Tucuxi Porpoise is found only here. Vacationers can see sea turtles nesting and fishermen often find Silver Kings and snook. Lots of them. In the nearby Caribbean, in the many lagoons and rivers. Very little fishing pressure. But when they are here, lots of fish!

Mr. Vic Krumm writes from beautiful Costa Rica and and has a lovely website Costa Rica Vacations. Visit here to learn more about Costa Rica Beaches

For anyone looking to vacation in paradise, Ixtapa Zihuatanejo travel in Guerrero Mexico is the perfect place. Located along the Pacific Coast, Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo is full of charming, traditional Mexican culture. Zihuatanejo is an historical, fishing town and Ixtapa is a thriving, modern tourist attraction. With its beautiful beaches and luxurious accommodation, Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa prove to be the perfect place for travelers from around the world.

There is so much to do in Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa. Located on the Pacific Coast on a big bay, many tourists are attracted to its wonderful water sports like snorkeling, surfing, sailing and kayaking. Its easy to dock boats on the bay and take a break from the winter with its warm weather. Lots of fishermen enjoy the hunt for yellowfish tuna, roosterfish, and sailfish. For those people who love getting in touch with nature, horseback riding may be a fun option along the sandy beaches. After a long day of golf and tennis, you can relax with some yoga classes or even a long massage.

Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are most popular for its beautiful beaches. Ixtapa is home to one well known beach called Playa El Palmar. Here you can find several high rise hotels along the beach to stay in. For parasailing, swimming, and windsurfing many travelers find Playa La Ropa to be perfect. If you want to explore sea life along an exotic reef, snorkeling in Playa Las Gatas would be a good place to go. La Playa Municipal is well known for shoppers to take a quick walk from downtown Zihuatanejo and relax on its warm, sandy beach. Finding the perfect waves for bodysurfing will not be hard at Playa La Madera. A fun boat ride can get you to the hidden Playa Contramar for a secluded picnic.

If you are looking for accommodation, Ixtapa has a number of upscale hotels overlooking the Pacific Coast. There are also many vacation houses that you can rent out for a long, relaxing holiday. In Zihuatanejo, apartments and bungalows are available for rent. Along with fun bungalows, villas and hotels are other options for accommodation in Zihuatanejo.

Ixtapa has a fun night life with bars and discos offering an exciting night out on the town. Movie theaters can be found throughout Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo. There are lots of places to shop for souvenirs or scout out local artists and craftsmen.

Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are perfect places for a base to going on tours. You can search for fierce jaguars on the jungle tours. Watch the stunning sunset on a kayak tour. You can also visit other nearby villages on a tour that starts right in Ixtapa.

Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo is also a popular place for weddings. Whether you want a beautiful wedding on the beach or an elegant wedding in a grand hotel, Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo offers everything. There are a number of restaurants, hotels, and beautiful scenery for a perfect wedding.

Beautiful scenery, grand hotels, exciting adventures all await travelers to Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo. Travelers of all kinds will find plenty to do and see in this wonderful coastal attraction. Fun outdoor tours, relaxing beaches and hotels, and charming Mexican culture are all a part of beautiful Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo.

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If you have planned out your entire Spring Break road trip – cheap Spring Break ideas are what you still need to find. All of your transportation needs are taken care of, and you know that you are going to party like crazy on your Spring Break, but you may still be wondering what else is available to you when you are actually at your Spring Break destination. You are probably also wondering how you are going to afford what you want to do with the budget you are working with. Don’t worry though, because there are many ways for you and your friends to make the most of your vacation.

Sure, drinking until you don’t remember your name is always a great start, but what are you going to do when you realize that you have been in bars for two days straight and you are wondering what the outside world looks like? You need plans, and you need cheap plans at that. The easiest way to create a cheap plan is by discovering what is possible in the area you are travelling to. Then, once you know what is available in the area you are interested in, you are ready to choose the perfect activity that matches your preferences and your budget.

If you are going to Panama City Beach, Florida, one very easy idea you can take advantage of for free are the amazing beaches. If you don’t spend time relaxing on these world class beaches, you will be missing out on some of the very best beaches in the world. There are ways you can enhance your beach experience even further though, if you are interested in more adventure than a pleasant recovery from a hangover.

Snorkeling is one great option. If you don’t want to spend too much time in the water though, you can always choose kayaking. Both of these options are fairly cheap activities that are available to you at any time. If you have a couple of friends who want to combine their money to create one awesome adventure, you can always rent a jet ski. When you all combine your money together, the excessive prices associated with jet ski rentals are minimized to a reasonable level.

Many people also choose Daytona Beach, Florida as their Cheap Spring Break vacation spot. If you are going here, you are probably also wondering what you can do during times you want to do more than just party. Beach parties are one of the most common activities enjoyed by Spring Breakers at this destination. If you want to do more than just party though, you can always check out the amazing concerts that are on display here every year. Some concerts are fairly cheap, but they are always entertaining. If you want even more entertainment from your activities, you can always throw in some snorkeling and kayaking here as well.

If South Padre Island, Texas is your destination, then you have a few different options that vary from the other Spring Break party scenes. If you are going here, you can always take a day trip to Mexico, which is only 5 miles away by water. This can be a great way to have a vacation while on your vacation.

If you want to create an adventure while still staying the states, you can always rent a scooter and check out the island. Scooters are fairly cheap, and they can be tons of fun if you are interested in seeing the island to feel the complete freedom offered by your Spring Break.

Wherever you are visiting during your Spring Break road trip – cheap Spring Break ideas are always available to you in many forms. The easy way to find cheap adventures at your Spring Break destination can be done by thinking about what is possible in the terrain that surrounds you. If scuba diving is possible, then it is likely that someone is supplying the necessary equipment to allow you to enjoy that activity. When you know what you like, and you know what is possible in the area you are visiting, you can easily find the best activities that match your budget perfectly.

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