Lombok is an exotic destination, located about 40 km east of Bali and west of the Sumbawa Islands, in the West Nusa Tenggara Province in Indonesia. Occupying an area of more than 4500 square kilometers, Lombok consists of several tiny islands, and looks like what Bali was more than 25 years ago.

The island can be easily reached from Bali through an enjoyable boat ride or via a 30-minutes flight from Denpasar International Airport in Bali. Lombok is made up of three administrative regions: Central Lombok, West Lombok, and Eastern Lombok. Mataram, located to the west, is the administrative capital as well as the largest city in the island. Lombok’s other prominent two cities are Selong in the east and Praya in the center.

Dominated by the magnificent Mount Rinjani, perched about 3500 meters above sea level – Lombok has more than a dozen of incredible beaches, and is much favored for its beautiful landscapes comprising charming mountainsides, towering volcanoes, swaying palm trees, and stunning bamboo plantations. The island, with its incredible sandy beaches, becomes truly magical when twilight sets in. In deed, Lombok is truly a paradise, and no wonder why vacationers including honeymooners visit this amazing destination year-round.

Most popular among the attractions of Lombok is undoubtedly its beaches, of which perhaps the most prominent is Senggigi. A perfect spot to relax and unwind, Senggigi is an awesome beach resort area, boasting of an array of white sandy beaches as well as safe swimming areas. The central region of Senggigi has some excellent spots for enjoying surfing. The vivid reef seen here forms shelter for a variety of rare species of marine life. In addition, its elegantly shaped coral makes it an excellent spot for snorkeling. Senggigi also provides superb facilities for activities such as canoeing and boating.

Excellent beaches are also found in the Gili Islands, located off the north-west coast of Lombok. An archipelago of three stunning islands such as Gili Air, Gili Meno, and Gili Trawangan, Gili’s each island features superb white sandy beaches, picturesque coral reefs, azure blue water, and multi-colored fish, all of them making it a great spot for activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling. Gili Islands are much popular among the westerners as well as travelers looking for a secluded island experience.

Another unbelievable beach in the island is Kuta, situated on the south coast of the island. During the low tides, the beach becomes a shallow water pool with turquoise blue water, thereby making it a haven for swimming. Tanjung Aan and Gerupak are the other popular beaches in the area.

However, the attractions in Lombok are not just beaches, but beyond that. Many of the prime attractions in Lombok are centered around its capital city, Mataram, which is also the seat of administration of the island. Mataram has something for everyone. For instance, if you are an art and culture lover, then take a tour to the Mataram main square, where art exhibitions and puppet shows are organized. Sightseeing options are also aplenty in Mataram, and just few among them are Karang Bayan Traditional Village, Narmada Park, Mayura and Bale Kambang, and Mayura Water Palace.

A plenty of sightseeing options are also available in Lombok cities such as Cakranegara, which is regarded as the commercial center of the island and inhabited by Chinese and Balinese communities. The focal point of the city is the Paru Meru, the largest temple in Lombok. Many of the restaurants and outlets found here are owned by Chinese; hence this city is sometimes referred to as the Chinatown. Also, a popular city is Ampenan, a port town which is home to the only airport in Lombok. Not to miss attractions in the city are the Water Temple of Pura Segara on the northern shores of Ampenan and the Negeri Nusa Tenggara Barat museum.

Lombok has a great number of hotels to cater to every taste and budget. For those who want to experience the tranquility of Lombok in luxury, then some excellent choices are available in the form of upscale hotels with rooms appointed with top-end amenities. Some hotels provide packages inclusive of sightseeing and facilities for enjoying a continuum of activities such as trekking, snorkeling, diving, golfing, and surfing. There are also hotels providing superb packages for conducting beach weddings in Lombok.

Tahitian islands, officially the French Polynesia, are an archipelago of 118 islands, sprawling over more than four million square kilometers. These islands are categorized into five island groups: the Society Islands, Astral Islands, Marquesas Islands, Tuamotu Atolls and the Gambier Islands.

Tahiti and its island are considered a tropical paradise, and many honeymooners and lovers from across the world claim it as one of the most romantic destinations on the planet. Each of the Tahitian Islands boasts of a great number of scenic attractions, covering beautiful lagoons, extensive sparkling blue sea, incredible pearls, vanilla plantations, and isolated tranquil beaches.

Perhaps the most romantic among the Tahitian islands is Bora Bora, noted for its lush green areas, crystal clear water, exotic marine life, and traditional dances. It is regarded as a great venue to conduct weddings as well as to renew marriage vows and celebrate honeymoons. A specialty of this island is that many ancient Polynesian traditions are still firm here.

The largest of the French Polynesian Islands, Tahiti in Society Islands is another popular destination for a memorable Tahitian vacation. Tahiti offers a myriad of options for tourists visiting here. Apart from its awesome lagoons coupled with unique marine life, Tahiti has a good number of art galleries, museums, and botanical gardens. A walking tour through Pepeete, the capital of Tahiti would be a great experience. Above all, don’t miss to check out the unique collection of black pearls, which can be found only in Tahiti.

Also, a great destination in Tahiti is Huahine, an astounding place blessed with tropical rain forest, awe-inspiring lagoons, beautiful waterfalls, misty mountains, and stunning ocean views. No wonder why Huahine is often referred to as the ‘Garden of Eden.’

For a memorable traditional style wedding, probably the best destination would be Moorea with its Tiki Cultural Village, offering three distinct packages for an unforgettable wedding, such as, the princess wedding, the royal wedding, and the royal deluxe wedding. Aforesaid are just few among many of the awe-inspiring island destinations in French Polynesia.

With its lucid green lagoons and isolated tranquil beaches, Tahitian islands are truly a haven for water sports lover. For instance, if you are an adventurer, go for such activities as deep sea fishing or scuba diving, which allows you to swim along with beautiful as well as unique marine creatures such as dolphins, manta rays, and schools of baccarats. If you are looking for fun filled activities, then choose activities including canoeing, sailing, wind surfing, parasailing, jet skiing, and snorkeling. Again if you are looking for something unique, then go on for a ray or shark feeding expedition, where you can see hungry sharks and rays being hand-fed by an expert guide.

However, Tahitian islands not only provide opportunities for water activities but also for an array of land activities. Take a roadside tour, enjoy a picnic on a private motu, go on for a helicopter tour, visit interesting Marae temples, take a tour to arts and crafts villages, or just get pampered or indulged in a world-class spa treatment – choices are truly endless! Further, some better options are available for land adventurers in the form of 4X4 Safari tours, hiking, and climbing, all of which are a great way to discover the serenity of the region.

Located just a five-hour flight from Hawaii, Tahitian islands are frequented by tourists from across the globe year-round. Many people including celebrities have chosen this destination as a venue to conduct their weddings in a traditional style. Accommodation is simply superb in Tahiti, with more than 50 hotels providing over 5000 rooms. There are lodging choices to suit every preference and budget.

For well-heeled and luxury lovers, Tahitian hotels and resorts boast of a variety of accommodation options ranging from top-end suites and guest rooms to deluxe rooms with ocean views. All of these are replete with most sophisticated features. In addition, many of them come with one or more restaurants to serve you with scrumptious dishes, wines, and other beverages. Some upscale hotels offer great value packages such as honeymoon packages, wedding packages, and packages covering facilities to enjoy some of the interesting activities in the area.

Much favored accommodation choice among newly weds and honeymooners is over-water bungalows perched over serene lagoon water filled with tropical fish. Living in this traditional style thatched bungalows attached with high-end facilities is really a great experience. For beach lovers seeking privacy, a great option is beach bungalows, which are within close proximity to the finest beaches. Likewise, for those seeking privacy but at the same time looking for less expensive option, garden bungalows would be the most perfect choice.

No matter if all of the aforesaid accommodation options are not of your choice or budget, then you have better options available in the form of family pensions and private homes, staying in which is a charming way to explore the beauty as well as culture of Tahitian islands on a low budget. Mostly, these accommodation choices complete with almost everything that are required for an enjoyable Tahiti vacation.

With its sheer beauty, perfect salubrious climate, and bio diversity, the Andaman Sea has now become one of the world’s premier cruising destinations. Sprawling over an area of about 700,000 square kilometers, the Andaman Sea is in the north eastern corner of the Indian Ocean.

Bounded by Myanmar to the north, Sumatra and the Strait of Malacca to the south, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to the west, and Thailand and Malaysia to the east, the Andaman consists of thousands of incredible islands as well as a great number of sheltered anchorages.

Cruising along the Andaman Sea is a great way to explore some of the world’s beautiful destinations. Perhaps the most perfect destination for an enjoyable sailing in the Andaman is Phuket Island and Phang Nga Bay. Acknowledged as ‘the Pearl of the Andaman,’ Phuket is an incredibly diverse destination in Thailand, which is much famed for its magnificent scenery, fantastic coves and beaches, eye-catching tropical sunsets, glorious coastline, awe inspiring tropical gardens, superb coastline, rocky as well as sandy beaches, tall cliffs, dense forests, scintillating waterfalls, warm blue sea, and ancient temples. The bay of Phang Nga boasts of a number of legendary islands, in addition to the beaches such as Krabi and Phi-Phi. Sea canoeing through the Phang-nga would be a great experience.

Located on the north-west coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is yet another great destination for cruising in the Andaman. An archipelago consisting of 99 islands, Langkawi provides a unique tropical experience, with its unspoilt white sandy beaches and crystal clear blue water. A cruise through the islands of the Langkawi would be truly rewarding, and enables you to enjoy the rustic beauty of the place. In short, Langkawi is truly a yachting haven.

A part of the Union Territory of India, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands also provide a memorable yachting experience in the Andaman Sea. Situated about 400 miles west of Phuket in the Indian Ocean and consisting of more than 500 islands, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ all of the beaches are unparallel. Additionally, many of the islands in the Andaman and Nicobar are hilly and covered with tropical forests. Above all, these islands are a paradise to enjoy a variety of activities including snorkeling, scuba diving, and island camping.

Top cruising destinations in the Andaman Sea also include the Mergui, otherwise known as Myeik islands. An archipelago of 800 beautiful islands, Mergui is located on the southernmost part of Myanmar. Crystal-like clear blue water, immaculate white sands, and tropical rainforest, all of this make this island group truly an astounding spot.

One of the great advantages of cruising in the Andaman is that it is safe for sailing throughout the year, since it is not affected by tropical storms. Above all, you needn’t have to about plundering while sailing in the Andaman. The tribes found in these regions are amicable.

Almost every type of boat as well as yachts is available for a memorable cruise in the Andaman Sea. Charter bareboat would be a great choice for those who don’t want to crew on board or hire skipper. In charter bareboat, a boat or yacht is hired without crew. In most cases, bareboat is chartered with full tanks of fuel and water.

One of the great ways to explore the beauty of the Andaman Sea along with your family or friends is chartering skippered yachts, which mostly cover team training, onboard catering, corporate facilities, and itineraries. For those who want to discover the beauty of the Andaman with a blend of privacy and relaxation, a great option would be to charter a crewed yacht. This in turn provides an experience of staying in a luxury floating villa, and in most cases, it comes replete with gourmet meals and drinks, personal service, and finest accommodations.

Options are also available for those looking for sophistication, such as, luxury yachts, which features facilities including in-house theaters, Jacuzzis on deck, excellent cuisine, swimming pools, and fish fighting chairs. Classic yachts, catamarans, super yachts, and sail boat, are the other popular types of yacht charter.

A plethora of charter speed boats agencies are in the scenario to expert services. You can also utilize the services of boat brokers for an enjoyable cruising in the Andaman. Nowadays, many of the service providers have their own sites on the web, with details and information on facilities and packages available. Some of them even provide facilities to book online.

Any proposal involving dredging of the sea bottom, should be approached with abundant caution.

They are finding it very expensive to maintain the Panama canal, because of the continuous silting by the streams, from the sides of the canal.

The Palk Strait connects two powerful oceans of the world, the Indian ocean of the south and the Pacific ocean of the east, the latter one notorious for tsunami. Can we forget the last one?

Engineers have the habit of miscalculating the disadvantageous parameters. They now admit that the silting of Tehri dam is more than what they assumed. As if, it is the fault of the river, not their fault!

The sea bed is subjected to sudden changes caused by undercurrents, earthquakes, bulging or withdrawal of the sea bottom etc. which are yet to be understood. Somewhere the sea bottom goes down, at other places islands come up, indicating upward movement of the bottom level.

The displacement of some islands in the Andaman archipelago was noticed after the last tsunami.

Politicians should keep away from decision making.

Located in the center of the South Pacific Ocean, Tahitian Islands are among the most beautiful in the world. Tahitian Islands, otherwise known as French Polynesia, is made up of about 118 islands and atolls spread across five archipelagos such as the Society Islands, Austral Islands, Gambier Islands, Marquesas Islands, and Tuamotu Islands.

Bestowed with the titles, ‘the Queen of the Pacific’ and ‘the Island of Love,’ Tahiti, in the Society Archipelago’s Leeward group, is the largest and the main island in French Polynesia. Equally fabulous are such island destinations in French Polynesia as Bora Bora, Moorea, famed for its Tiki Village, Huahine, Raiatea, and Taha’a.

Each of the 118 islands in French Polynesia is noted for its unique landscape with beautiful flower-strewn valleys, gorgeous lagoons, deserted beaches, incredible coves and bays, and much more. In short, with a delightful array of natural wonders and man-made attractions, Tahiti and its sister islands are truly a haven for sightseers.

Just few among many of the attractions in the destination are the Harrison W Smith Botanical Garden, the Maraa Fern Grotto, Pearl Museum, and Bougainville Park. Visitors to French Polynesia could also engage in a number of adventure as well as leisurely activities such as swimming, diving, game fishing, wind-surfing, water skiing, outrigger canoeing, hiking, horseback riding, and 4X4 safari tours.

Apart from being a paradise for sightseeing as well as enjoying a number of water and land-based activities, Tahitian Islands are also much famed for its different types of festivals and events, which among many others, are the Chinese New Year, which falls every year between late January and mid February and whose focal point is traditional dance shows and martial arts display.

Moorea Marathon, falling every year in February; Tahiti International Golf Open, a four-day championship event that is held in every June; Heiva i Tahiti, which is perhaps the most significant among the festivals of French Polynesia; the Annual Flower Show, that is held in the Bougainville Park in Pepeete in September; and Stone Fishing Contest, a traditional event that take place in every year in October in Bora Bora.

Along with these festivals and events, also a much favored event in French Polynesia is Hawaiiki Nui Va’a, which is the most prestigious sporting event in French Polynesia, and one of the most extravagant open sea contests in the world. It is a three-day event, and is mostly held annually during late October or November.

It is estimated that more than 100 traditional canoes are taken to the water for the race from the magnificent island of Huahine to the romantic island of Bora Bora. Va’a is the Tahitian name given for outrigger canoes. During the race, overall kilometers of 78 miles or 130 kilometers must be covered and that too in three phases: from Huahine to Raiatea, Raiatea to Tahaa, and Tahaa to Bora Bora.

On the third day of the race when the competitor’ reach the finishing point at Pointe Matira, Bora Bora, the spot would be packed with cheering crowds of viewers to welcome the winners. Al though a spectacular sporting event, Hawaiiki Nui demands a great deal of physical endurance coupled with traditional as well as modern techniques.

Important festivals and events of French Polynesia also include Marathon races, art festivals, performances related to the history of Tahitian Islands, beauty contests, surfing competitions, Bastille Day celebrations, and more. In short, Tahitian Islands present a feast of festivals and events, apart from a variety of attractions, to enthrall and entertain people touring the destination.

From the aforesaid discussion, it is evident that French Polynesia has reasons to draw tourists year-round. Hence, in order to cater to the needs of increasing number of tourists per year, almost all prominent destinations in French Polynesia like Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea come with a number of accommodation options to choose from, including world class hotel and resort rooms, beautiful villas, and beachside apartments and cottages.

However, perhaps the most popular among the accommodation choice in Tahiti is overwater bungalows, which as the name implies, are built over the waters of the spectacular lagoon. They are attached with all facilities and amenities that a five-star hotel or resort renders. Let it be of any type, majority of the accommodation choices in Tahiti would be coupled with facilities like superb dining options, state of the fitness and spa facilities, and facilities to enjoy a number of activities.

So, finally my  2009-list is done, a bit later than last year. Listening to all the stuff from this year, I had a mixed feeling… there were not as much outstanding records as last year, and a lot of bands I really looked forward to disappointed me.

That being said, I’ve got a really amazing number one, which I will reveal in the course of the following weeks, hoping to have finished before or just after Christmas. I also will try to finish my best of the decade list by then, so I’ve got a lot of work to do.

Anyway… the albums that you won’t see in my end of year list (that you would’ve suspected in the first place)

- Islands – Vapours: Vocoders are there to be destroyed. This band is finally over for me. I won’t be trying any next stuff.

- Devendra Banhart - What will we be: Banhart’s first major label release, and you can hear that. All the fun is sucked out of his songs. The promising future turned into a bland present.

- Monsters of Folk: Though they gave a great show (and I got wronged by Oberst and James about how they suck these days), the sum isn’t nearly as good as the separate parts. At least on the record.

- Micah P. Hinson - All Dressed up and smelling of strangers: I like cover albums, but i have no idea what Hinson was thinking with some of these versions.

- Findlay brown: I don’t even wanna remember this. From superfolkie (and a high spot in my 2007 list) to Phil Collins’ evil stepbrother. Yuk. (I’m not even giving the name of the album, because I wanna spare you guys that).

- Misophone - I sit at open windows: I once asked them if they would release their old material, and i think this is one of the albums preceding “Where has it gone, all the beautiful music of our grandparents? ..” The bad thing is you can hear that they’ve not grown to their full potential on those albums yet. Guys, ignore my request and just start recording new stuff.

- Grizzly Bear- Veckatimest: i must say it was on the shortlist for quite a while, but in the long run it just wasn’t good enough to obtain a place in the top 50. The Same for Castanets, Casiotone For the Painfully Alone, Bonnie Prince Billy, Hallelujah The Hills, Why (my number one of last year!) and Noah & The Whale.

- Wilco – Wilco (the album): the last three albums of this band are probably all in my top 50 of the last ten years, and although this one has enjoyable songs, It’s just a bit below Wilco-standards. There isn’t one song no it that would end up on my Wilco best-of mixtape. This hurt probably the most this year. Ouch Wilco.

So, now you have a small overview on what’s not there. Keep checking the blog for the Yes-list.

Yes!

Why choose Hawaii for a holiday? If you are looking for a holiday destination which can offer everything then you must consider Hawaii.

Even the Hawaiian weather has something for everyone. The warm trade winds come in from the north east leaving a rainier and blustery side of the island while the weather is dryer and calmer on the other side.

The island is surrounded by ocean which is warm all year and suitable for water sports all year round. These islands are lucky enough to be placed so that it rarely experiences hurricanes, there are earthquakes, but even these are unlikely to be severe enough to upset your holiday.

Hawaii is more than just an island; it is a whole group of islands, each one with something special to offer.

Without the weather to worry about, what are you going to fill your days with? If you are a keen water sports enthusiast, then there will be more than you could ever possible manage in one holiday. The islands offer beautiful oceans for snorkelling and diving.

Due to the islanders understanding of their environment, they are careful to nurture the extensive coral reefs which provide homes for exotic wildlife and the perfect experience for divers, whether you are experienced or a novice. If you are looking to learn snorkelling or diving there is no more stunning a place for your first experience. The only problem will be that diving in other places afterwards will struggle to compete!

There are plenty of courses which can either be booked before arrival or through your hotel when you are Hawaii.

If you are more interested in hiking and on land sports then there are wonderful hiking trails which you can explore on your own or with one of the islands tour operators. This is a great way to see the island.

If you want to get a feel for the islands, but do not want to hike your way around there is another way -helicopter tours. These can be organized once you are at your hotel and have started to plan your time.

These tours will give you a chance to see what to expect from your holidays and at the same time you get to see the beauty of the island almost in an instant.

The Hawaiian Islands are forever associated with romance and hence are a popular destination for couples choosing to marry abroad. This popularity means that many of the islands hotels are prepared for weddings and offer packages for the bridal couples to choose from which will take a lot of the work out of organizing a wedding – the difficulty will be in the deciding what you want.

The climate of the Hawaiian Islands means that you can have the perfect weather for your wedding in almost every months of the year. Then of course you will need to decided if you want your wedding indoors or outdoors. All the options are there, the choice is yours!

Whatever you are looking for Hawaii can offer it! Many people believe that everyone should experience the Hawaiian Islands at some time in their lives. Book your holidays and enjoy!

not postin alot

Now this is what I call art!

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BINARY BARD

This year, rather than opting for the usual holiday, why not try a yachting holiday? There’s no better way to spend your time than sailing along a beautiful coastline, enjoying the sea breeze and excitement from a yacht.

Where is best?

There are so many destinations to choose from when deciding where to go on your sailing holiday. We’ve chosen three hot spots to help you make your decision.

Croatia

With many unspoilt and remote islands to discover, a Croatian sailing holiday is the ideal destination for those with a sense of adventure.

Cruise upon the crystal clear waters and stop to visit the historical villages and small marinas which are becoming increasingly popular with sailing holidaymakers. With countless town quays, you’ll never be far from a restaurant or shop for supplies.

Overnight, you can either moor up in a marina with all its conveniences or opt for setting anchor in a secluded creek. Alternatively, drop your anchor in a secluded bay for a quiet dip in the sea?

You’ll receive the warmest welcome, typical of Croat hospitality. And warm sunshine too! Croatia has 2600 hours of sunshine per year. Early summer brings good winds, making May and June the best months to go. July and August offer calmer periods, suitable for those preferring a more peaceful sailing holiday.

This amazing country has loads on offer and is great for both those new to sailing and veterans of the sport.

Where to visit – Dalmation Coast, Korcula, Dubrovnic.

Greece

Clear turquoise seas and colourful views ranging from vineyards and orchards to rocky terrains and pebble beaches. Greece offers the most spectacular scenery.

Visit the beautiful quaint villages and sheltered harbours the Greek islands have to offer. Greece also offers sailing holiday makers many places of historical and cultural interest as well as stunning architecture.

Quiet sandy beaches in picturesque coves make for the perfect anchor. In the evenings you can tie up on the quay at one of the many holiday resorts and take in the nightlife.

The weather is invariably good throughout the summer months and the light afternoon breeze makes Greece an ideal sailing location. From April until October there is very little rainfall but the islands still manage to maintain their lush greenness.

The southern island is ideal for the less experienced sailor due to the sheltered waters and shorter routes. The North offers less crowded waters but longer passages for more adventurous sailing.

Where to visit – Cephalonia, Corfu, Ithaka, Paxos, Kythira.

Italy

A gorgeous coastline of breathtaking mountains, still lakes and idyllic islands coupled with vibrant cities, make Italy the perfect destination for holiday cruising.

Italy is a country which has preserved its history for thousands of years. Naples is ideal for art lovers wishing to visit museums and monuments, while Tuscany offers rustic charm and raw beauty. If glamour and style is what you crave then Capri is the place to visit, and the history and diversity of the Amalfi Coast is second to none. A yachting holiday may just be the best way to discover everything that Italy has to offer!

Moor your yacht at one of the many local harbours and take in the superb restaurants serving the finest food. There are always plenty of shops nearby for sailing supplies, making it an ideal base for families. Bays and moorings can get crowded in busy periods.

Italy has superb sailing weather all year round making it one of the most popular locations for sailors. More than 5000 miles of coastline border the country and most of it stays sunny for the majority of the year. The hottest time of year is July to August and this is when the winds are lightest.

Both experienced sailors and beginners will find a yachting holiday in Italy an experience to treasure forever.

Where to visit – Capri, Almalfi Coast, the Pontine Islands, Procida.

What Now?

If you are an experienced sailor you can charter your own yacht. Remember an up to date competency certificate is usually required. Or why not arrange for a skipper to do all the hard work for you? Either way, a yachting holiday is a fantastic adventure and a wonderful alternative to the standard summer holiday. Be sure to plan your holiday carefully, making sure your travel insurance covers you for sailing or any other activity you may do!

Tuna fishing has a loong tradition in the Adriatic. It probably dates back to the Illyrian times and Greek colonization in the 5th century BC.
I recently purchased a lovely postcard from the early 20th century showing a traditional tunara or observation point in small town of Bakar near Rijeka.

Tunara in Bakar

Tunaras were used up to the quite recent dates and some of them are still standing. There is even an ancient tunara on the island of Pag but I still have to get there.

Tunara still standing (Wikipedia image)

Tuna fish was always one of the most important fish species in the Adriatic and the waters of our shores were always full of food for them. The Atlantic Bluefin is one of the dominant Tuna species and it is widespread in the entire Adriatic. Of course, not as much as it was before since the years of heavy fishing resulted in fish hardly reaching sizes/weight as it used to. Especially big were the fish caught near Šibenik so even it the 15th century local writer Šizgoric wrote how the fish caught in the St. Ante Channel near Šibenik were of monstrous proportions! It is even documented that the largest fish caught in the Adriatic was 850 Kg or 1873 lbs and that is nearly 400 lbs more than the one caught in 1979 and considered to be the biggest: http://www.bigmarinefish.com/photos_bluefin_tuna_pg4.html

Today, tuna is rarely fished with old methods and most of it is caught for farming. Even tuna farming is closely related to Dalmatia: the first farms were started by Croatians in Port Lincoln, Australia in the early ’90s. Later, they brought the method to their home town of Kali on Ugljan Island and that’s where the tuna farming in Croatia started.

Modern tuna fishing (Jadran Tuna image)

Tuna fishing is now spread on several locations in the Adriatic but catching tuna is not as easy as it used to be. The overfishing in the Mediterranean has nearly destroyed the population of the fish and tuna farms are taking in smaller and smaller fish which never reproduced.
Adriatic tuna is in high demand because of it’s distinct flavor but future generations my never taste this great fish.

Towing tuna fish cage (Jadran Tuna image)

Another popular form of fishing is Big Game and there is even an internationally recognized competition taking place each September/October in Jezera on Murter Island.
Quite popular due to good size fish caught here!

www.secretdalmatia.com

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Joanna Newsom, the queen of 2006.

2006 was an outstanding year for music. If you disagree then you’re not my friend anymore.

I have elected to share my list from that year rather than 2005 for two reasons: 1) A strange and inadvertent hibernation I experienced in 2005 within the caves of Malaysia. 2) My recent obsession with one-upping everyone around me coupled with a strengthening of my basic arithmetic skills (2005 + 1 = 2006).

If I could do this again, of course, it’d look a lot different. Alas, my decade list will serve as an opportunity to rearrange albums based on sustained listening of old favorites and discoveries of new (also based on the unearthing of a hidden track on “Stadium Arcadium” that makes it the greatest album of 2006, if not the 21st century… just kidding).

1. The Decemberists – The Crane Wife
2. Joanna Newsom – Ys
3. The Knife – Silent Shout
4. Liars – Drum’s Not Dead
5. Band of Horses – Everything all the Time
6. Thom Yorke – The Eraser
7. Islands – Return to the Sea
8. Belle & Sebastian – The Life Pursuit
9. Sufjan Stevens – The Avalanche
10. The Strokes – First Impression of Earth

Dubai is an incredible holiday destination that has so much to offer. From deserts, safaris, Arab cuisines, manmade marvels, huge wealthy hotels, theme parks to world famous shopping experience, Dubai makes a more than perfect destination for a great vacation.

Below are some of the things you must see when holidaying in Dubai.

Palm Islands

Famous for being visible from the moon, palm islands are three of the largest manmade islands ever. For tourists and visitors the palm Jumeirah features a series of hotels and private residences. While the second of the three Islands, palm Jebel Ali is known for its leisure facilities, you can also enjoy the aquatic theme park on this island. The third island of the palm islands, Palm Deira is more or less a residential area with large number of sophisticated and stylish villas. The palm Deira is also the largest of the three islands forming a great manmade marvel ever. The palm islands are a must visit tourist attraction for every holiday in Dubai. The three marvellous islands are connected by bridges to the main land. A Dubai vacation can not be completed without taking a trip to this breathtaking manmade attraction.

Wonderland

This tourist attraction is for those looking for a family time in their Dubai vacation. Spread in an area of 18 hectares, this fun park is often filled with tourists and visitors enjoying Caribbean cruise, speed slides, wave runners, surf hills and many such amazing attractions.

Magic Planet

Magic planet is fun place for children and is an entertainment centre only for kids. This tourist attraction is great for your kids to have some fun in their holiday in Dubai. You can let your kids cherish their Dubai vacation with attractions like crawling bungee jungle, mini pitch and putt, electronic games and 10 pin bowling.

Art Galleries

Dubai also displays some remarkable and beautiful art galleries for art lovers on their holiday in Dubai. Founded in 1976, the Dubai Art Society is quite a unique tourist attraction in Dubai. The art galleries got their share of fame after being reinvented in year 1980. In the mid of 1980s it was renamed as Dubai International Art Centre. The place promotes skills of young artists and should not be missed on a Dubai vacation, if you are fond of art.

Desert Safaris

A holiday in Dubai is never complete without the world famous desert safaris. Tourist and visitors are taken on desert trip in groups and get to experience Dubai, its culture and deserts. The Dubai safari experience is something you will not get anywhere else and to add to the adventure, you also get an overnight stay in Bedouin tents. Holiday in Dubai gets memorable when you get to taste the traditional Arab barbeque during evening desert feasts.

Best time to have a holiday in Dubai

The ideal time for a Dubai vacation is between November-March, also known as winter time in Dubai.