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Ao Nang

Ao Nang (อ่าวนาง), colloquially referred to as "Krabi", is a sub-district and a resort town of the Mueang Krabi District, in Thailand's Krabi Province, about 15 km from Krabi Town. In high season, roughly 1 November-30 April, it is the busiest and most tourist-oriented beach destination of the province and consequently one of the most expensive places in Thailand outside of Bangkok. Phuket is cheap by comparison. On 1 May, the wrecking balls come out and many existing storefronts are demolished to make way for new ones. In low-season many places shut entirely, restrict their hours, prices revert to normal and the town is relatively deserted.

Understand
Formally Ao Phra Nang ("Princess Bay") although everybody uses the short form, Ao Nang. It is the most "Westernized" beach in Krabi, originally a backpacker hotspot the area has moved upmarket due to the proximity of Krabi airport. While not quite as scenic as Rai Leh, there is some cheap accommodation, many good restaurants, easy transport and travel/tour agencies ready to cater to your every whim, making it a good base for exploring Krabi.

Orientation
Orienting yourself in Ao Nang is easy: almost everything is either along Ao Nang and Nopparat Thar Beaches, which run roughly northwest-southeast, adjacent to Ao Nang Road (Rte 4203) which goes east, then north from the southeast end of the beach. Longtail boats arrive and depart from the beach at either end of Ao Nang Beach. An impassable headland and Khlong Haeng (Dry Creek) separates Ao Nang Beach from Nopparat Thara Beach. Don't swim in the vicinity of the creek as it conveys raw sewage straight to the ocean. At the bridge over Khlong Haeng, Ao Nang Road becomes Nopparat Thara Road.

One of Ao Nang's drawbacks is that Ao Nang and Nopparat Thara Beaches are crummy beaches, certainly not beaches worth flying thousands of miles to visit. The Rai Leh Peninsula has superior—but crowded—beaches, but to get there you are dependent on the local longtail boat cartel which will charge you 100 baht to get there and another 100 baht return.

By plane
Krabi International Airport is about 40 minutes away by car. The local airport limo monopoly charges a fairly steep 600+ baht for a transfer (up to four persons). Many hotels will arrange a pickup at similar prices on request. Travel time is about half an hour.

Local shuttle buses—really just converted pickup trucks (songthaew)—run from Ao Nang to Krabi (60 baht) and from Krabi to the airport (50 baht). The trip between Ao Nang and the airport takes little less than 2 hours. To get to Ao Nang from Krabi town you should look for a white songthaew outside the 7-Eleven in town centre.

There is an air-conditioned bus service from the airport to Ao Nang and Nopparat Thara Beach (just after Ao Nang). There are services throughout the day. It travels from the airport to Krabi Town, the ferry terminal, then on to Ao Nang and Nopparat Thara. Good for some sight-seeing. Rates are 150 baht per person and travel time to Ao Nang is 1 hour. The buses are not new and are quite noisy. But, the best part is, the bus can drop you off at the doorstep of most hotels in Krabi Town, Ao Nang and Nopparat Thara. Just let the driver know the name of your hotel in advance. Language is not an issue, as most of them speak some English.

For the return trip, you can call the hotline one day before to arrange pick-up at your hotel. Or you can wait at any of the four bus stops in Ao Nang (one is in front of McDonald's) and Nopparat Thara. You can buy ticket on the bus or at any of the many tourist information (ticketing) shops.

By bus
The nearest inter-provincial bus station is in Krabi Town.

Krabi is served by regularly scheduled buses from all over the kingdom. Buses from Bangkok travel to Krabi down Hwy 4, the major north-south route from Malaysia to Bangkok, stopping along the way at towns like Chumphon and Hua Hin. At any of these stops you can go onward to Krabi. From Hua Hin to Krabi, for example, a BKS (government) bus departs from the station south of town centre at 22:00 (there are certainly more buses during the day). A VIP seat costs 855 baht (Jan 2016). It arrives in Krabi at about 06:30. Important: to get the best price you must go to the bus station to buy your ticket. You will be offered a choice of seats when booking. If booking a VIP seat, DO NOT choose a seat immediately behind either of the two stairwells on the double-decker bus. If you do, you will have no legroom whatsoever and would be better off going first-class at a cheaper price. If travelling during the day, give some thought to the location of the sun morning and afternoon. If going north after noon, sit on the right side of the bus; if south, sit on the left side.

To travel to Ao Nang from the Krabi bus station (or anywhere along the route they travel), look for a white, well-marked ("Krabi-Ao Nang") songthaew. From the bus station to Ao Nang, it will cost 60 baht on arrival at your desired stop.

By boat

Rai Leh West and Ton Sai are only 10 minutes away while the less developed Had Yao (Long Beach) is 25 minutes away by longtail boat. Boats leave constantly from the east end of the beach and charge a flat 80 baht/person during the day, 100 baht/person after 18:00. There is no pier so expect to get at least your feet wet, probably more. A longtail boat from Ao Nang is available all seasons, subject to the weather. In the monsoon season (May–October), getting to Rai Leh from Ao Nammao is recommended.

There are also public ferry services to Ko Phi Phi and Ko Lanta (usually twice daily), for which any travel agent will be happy to sell you tickets at around 200 baht/person. During the monsoon season, the ferry runs once day.

Boats from Ko Lanta now arrive at the new jetty, from there take a taxi (350 baht), or local bus to Krabi (50 baht) and then on to Ao Nang (40 baht).

If you travel by longboat getting a waterproof bag to protect your electronics is highly recommended.

By songthaew
There is a songthaew (shared pick-up truck/taxi) service to Ao Nang from the Krabi Bus Station and Krabi town, which runs during daylight hours in low season and up to 22:00 in high season. The fare from Krabi to Ao Nang is 60 baht. Songthaews can be expected every 15–20 minutes. Songthaews are colour coded according to destination. From Krabi Bus Station and Krabi town, get on a white songthaew. To find one of these white ones in Krabi, go to the 7-Eleven at the corner of Soi 8 and Maharaj Rd (the main road). Songthaews from bus station en route to Ao Nang stop there for 10 minutes.

Get around
Songthaews run all across Ao Nang to Shell Beach and some all the way to Krabi Town, fares from 20 baht up depending on distance. As of the 2019 high season, most tuk-tuks ask for 100 baht inside Ao Nang and 400 baht from Ao Nang to Krabi town, that is for one vehicle and single trip. It is still possible to negotiate prices sometimes, but it is becoming rare as the locals have become spoilt by rich tourists.

If you are going to or from the bus station in Krabi, a songthaew costs 60 baht. The Krabi-Ao Nang songthaews are white, with destinations clearly indicated in English. If you don't see one at the side of the bus station, wait a while and one will come by. In Ao Nang along the beach road, catch a songthaew to the bus station by standing on the beach side, not the inland side, of the road. This is counter-intuitive as Krabi is in the opposite direction.

Renting a motorbike is a great way to explore some of the sites outside of Ao Nang. There are shops up and down the major strips and you can get a reliable bike for 24 hours for 150-200 baht.

See

Do
and are just around the corner and there are many tour operators offering activities such as sea kayaking and elephant treks. Rock climbing can be arranged through Ao Nang agencies who will arrange transfers, lunch, and as much climbing as your limbs can handle. Alternatively, simply sail over to Rai Leh or Ton Sai and organize an introductory course yourself.

Seven-day tide tables and sea conditions for Ao Nang can be found at Tideschart.com

Beaches
From Ao Nang, three beaches are accessible by foot, without resort to a 100 baht boat ride to Ton Sai or Rai Leh.

 * 2016 Prowincja Krabi, Plaża Nopparat Thara (05).jpg
 * 2016 Prowincja Krabi, Plaża Nopparat Thara (05).jpg

Boat tours / transfers

 * The main beach at Ao Nang is the departure point for boats to a number of places, including the nearby resort of Rai Leh, which cannot be accessed by road, Poda Island and Chicken Island. Ticket booths with price lists are found at both ends of the beach.

Diving
There are a number of scuba diving centers in Ao Nang, offering dive course from basic up to instructor level. The "local" islands in Ao Nang Bay are relatively easy to access and uncrowded compared to many of the diving sites around Phi Phi Island. Other options include Shark Point Marine Sanctuary and the King Cruiser wreck which is suitable for intermediate divers, and mini-safaris to Hin Daeng, Hin Muang, and the Ko Ha Yai Islands for experienced or deep qualified divers. Most of the dive shops offer a very similar price for the dive courses and dive trips. It's now also possible to do a one day safari by speedboat to Hin Daeng and Hin Muang for a chance to see whale sharks and manta rays, or to do some spectacular cavern diving at the five islands of Ko Ha Yai. Some of the more popular dive sites can become crowded in the peak of high season late-December to early-January

 * Fast Manta 468/8 Moo2, Soi Ao Nang 3. +66 6 5035 0978 info (at) fastmanta.com is Finnish-owned small Padi Dive Center who focus small groups and tailored trips. Teaching is available on many languages.
 * Fast Manta 468/8 Moo2, Soi Ao Nang 3. +66 6 5035 0978 info (at) fastmanta.com is Finnish-owned small Padi Dive Center who focus small groups and tailored trips. Teaching is available on many languages.
 * Fast Manta 468/8 Moo2, Soi Ao Nang 3. +66 6 5035 0978 info (at) fastmanta.com is Finnish-owned small Padi Dive Center who focus small groups and tailored trips. Teaching is available on many languages.
 * Fast Manta 468/8 Moo2, Soi Ao Nang 3. +66 6 5035 0978 info (at) fastmanta.com is Finnish-owned small Padi Dive Center who focus small groups and tailored trips. Teaching is available on many languages.
 * Fast Manta 468/8 Moo2, Soi Ao Nang 3. +66 6 5035 0978 info (at) fastmanta.com is Finnish-owned small Padi Dive Center who focus small groups and tailored trips. Teaching is available on many languages.
 * Fast Manta 468/8 Moo2, Soi Ao Nang 3. +66 6 5035 0978 info (at) fastmanta.com is Finnish-owned small Padi Dive Center who focus small groups and tailored trips. Teaching is available on many languages.
 * Fast Manta 468/8 Moo2, Soi Ao Nang 3. +66 6 5035 0978 info (at) fastmanta.com is Finnish-owned small Padi Dive Center who focus small groups and tailored trips. Teaching is available on many languages.
 * Fast Manta 468/8 Moo2, Soi Ao Nang 3. +66 6 5035 0978 info (at) fastmanta.com is Finnish-owned small Padi Dive Center who focus small groups and tailored trips. Teaching is available on many languages.

Rock climbing

 * Ao Nang was originally put on the travel map by backpackers, many of whom came for the excellent climbing that Krabi's karst rock formations offer, and rock climbing is still widely available through centers in Ao Nang, although most of the climbs are in the areas around Rai Leh, Tonsai, and Phra Nang beaches.

Shopping
Unless you're in the market for souvenirs or liquor, shopping in Ao Nang is dismal. It has no shopping malls and aside from Tesco and Makro, no stores of significance. Buying a Western-language newspaper is out of the question. But there are plenty of convenience stores and souvenir shops. The vast majority of shops are lined nicely along Ao Nang Rd (beachfront). Souvenirs (postcards, magnets, trinkets) are plentiful as are tee shirts, flip-flops, and pretty much anything else you'll find elsewhere in Thailand. There are also tailors who will sell you a three-piece bespoke suit for 4,500-6,000 baht depending on the quality of the wool. Tailor-made shirts are 850-1,000 baht. Most of the tailors can get the suit done within a day. Don't ask how.

Three curious things about Ao Nang shopping: 1. there is only one "water machine" (in Ban Chong Phli) that are so common elsewhere in Thailand. These are the refrigerator-sized vending machines where one can fill up a 6 L (or less or more) bottle with purified water for about one baht per litre. A big down-side for the environment as more plastic bottles are the result. One suspects a water mafia that makes money delivering water is behind this. 2. Ao Nang has a dearth of gasoline stations. There are only three, all off-brand and inconspicuous, selling gasohol. Instead you will see free-standing gas pumps on every road outside of central Ao Nang. These self-service machines sell petrol for 39-42 baht per litre (Jan 2016). The nearest chain gas station on the way to Krabi (PPT) sells it for 23 baht per liter and an attendant pumps it for you. Someone is making a killing. 3. Most places in Thailand that host many Western tourists have supermarkets such as Rimping (Chiang Mai), or Tops (throughout Thailand), or even a backwater like Khao Lak, where one can buy Western breads, cheeses, salad dressings, sausages, or steaks. Not so in Ao Nang. You can't buy a hunk of Cheddar cheese or a can of pork and beans or Campbell's tomato soup in the Ao Nang Tesco. Best bet is Makro.

Eat
Ao Nang restaurants are, in general, outrageously expensive. You will pay double or triple the price in Krabi town to eat here—main courses are about 150 baht—and seafood very much more (starts at 250 baht). If you are after cheap food, look for the street stalls or restaurants at either end of Ao Nang.

The Burger King is open 24/7 in high-season.

Food markets & roadside stalls
There are a few street carts scattered about, although most serve backpacker fare such as banana pancakes at 15 baht each. Also look out for the yellow-signed noodle stalls with a "4" in a bowl as their logo, which serves a garlic-flavoured and tasty bamii muu daeng (roast pork noodles) for 25 baht.

Budget
Generally the places along the beach are more expensive and the ones up the hill or down towards Nopparat Thara tend to be cheaper and better value. Even up past McDonald's on the right, some offer squid and fish at amazingly low prices.

Drink
Ao Nang's nightlife centers on two areas, which are known locally as "Center Point" and "The Soi" (Soi RCA). Another nightlife area, the strip of bars along Bamboo Soi, was demolished in 2014. Both Center Point (on the main beach road) and "The Soi" (about 200 meters up from the beach on the right just before McDonald's across the street) contain bars offering loud music, hostesses, and free pool.

The cheapest place to have a drink in Ao Nang is down Soi 17 off Ao Nang Rd (where Ao Nang Rd meets the beach and makes a sharp right turn). About 100 m down the soi are two kiosks that serve cocktails for 100 baht and beers (Leo, Chang, etc.) for 40 baht (May 2016).

Bars close in Ao Nang at 02:00, possibly a bit later if doing bang-up business, in which case the music and lights will be turned down, and the shutters lowered.

Sleep
Ao Nang is one of the more expensive places to stay in Thailand. Accommodation that costs 600 baht in low-season (May–November) will cost you 1,600 baht in high-season.

Go next

 * The cliffs and beaches of Rai Leh, just 15 minutes away by boat, make a great day trip. Phra Nang is the next beach past Rai Leh and has dramatic limestone karst rock formations. Names get confusing, as Ao Nang (the developed resort) is sometimes called Ao Phra Nang. From Phra Nang you can walk across to Rai Leh East, with its mangroves, and hire kayaks to paddle round the rugged peninsula. There's also a path from Rai Leh East to Rai Leh West where most longtails call.
 * Ko Poda is another good day trip. You come back with the same boat and only pay on return. There's even an area to the right of where the longtails come in to Poda that's just worth snorkelling (unspectacular coral but a few fish).
 * Ao Nang is one of the main gateways for travel to the Phi Phi islands, about 2 hours away by longtail boat, 40-50 min by speed boat. Many tour operators in Ao Nang offer day trips to Phi Phi. Included in the price (900-1,500 baht) is most often lunch, hotel transfer, and insurance.
 * You can travel from Ao Nang to Ko Lanta easily. A ferry runs daily at 10:30, Aonang Princess. Book it at your hotel, price should be about 400 baht, and you will be picked up from your hotel and taken to the departure point, as well as met on the other side and taken to your hotel there.

title: Ao Nang


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Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is a national park dominated by New Zealand's two highest mountains, Aoraki / Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. Several other high peaks of the South Island's Southern Alps are nearby. The park is part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage site.

Understand

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park was established in 1953 and today covers 707 square kilometres. The park is home to 22 of New Zealand's 23 named peaks over 3,000 metres high (Mount Aspiring / Tititea is the 23rd).

The park is renowned for its natural environment. "Take only pictures and leave only footprints" is a good rule to follow.

Get in
Situated in the centre of the Southern Alps, Aoraki / Mt Cook Village is near the popular tourist spots of Lake Tekapo, Omarama, Twizel (roughly about 1–1.5 hours) and is a 3 or 4 hour drive from Queenstown and Christchurch. From Twizel there is an all-weather sealed road to.

is down the road from the village. You can fly from Queenstown with Glenorchy Air.

Fees and permits
Like most New Zealand national parks, there is no fee to enter Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. This includes parking at the base of the Hooker Valley/Kea Point Track and at Mount Cook Village.

Get around
Walking is a popular way to get around the park. There are a number of formed tracks and recognised walking routes.

For those who want to see or ski the mountains, there are light aircraft and helicopters that can get you to places in minutes that would otherwise take hours or days of walking.

See
These are high mountains, so close up that it will put a crick in the back of your neck.

Do
Aoraki / Mount Cook is the tallest mountain in New Zealand. There are a number of glaciers, including the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest.

Skiing options include ski touring based at high alpine huts, day skiing on the Tasman Glacier and heliskiing in the Ben Ohau and Liebig Ranges.

The glacier can also be experienced on the terminal lakes, with icebergs, on a boat or kayak tour.

Mountaineering options range from introductory climbing courses to guided ascents of Mount Cook. Check what skill level is needed for the latter tours or for independent mountaineering.

For a bird’s eye view, take a flight over the Southern Alps to the West Coast. Some planes will even land you on top of the Tasman Glacier.

 * Alpineguides and Alpinerecreation are among the companies arranging tours.
 * Air Safaris provides flightseeing tours flying from both Glentanner Park and Lake Tekapo. The Grand Traverse flight from here offers an aerial sightseeing tour of all the major mountains and glaciers in both the Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park and the Westland National Park.

There are climbing courses and stargazing tours available also at Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre (see above).

Walking and tramping
Aoraki / Mount Cook Village is surrounded by beautiful nature walks for all abilities. For options refer to Department of Conservation website.

For tramping, options include an excursion to Mueller Hut (refer to Department of Conservation website above) and the Ball Pass Trek. For the Ball Pass crossing you need mountaineering experience, crampons and ice-axe, or go with a guide. For the guided option see Alpinerecreation or call.

One of the most popular tracks is the Hooker Valley Track, starting from the White Horse Hill Campground area 5 km north to Hooker Lake (directly facing Mt Cook). The track also features three swing bridges and excellent views of Lake Müller along the way. Allow 3 hours including return.

Drink

 * The Hermitage in Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre/Hermitage Hotel.

Sleep
There are huts in the mountains, be prepared to climb to reach them.

Camping out is permitted in some parts of the park, though you may need to dig a snow cave.

Stay safe
Travelling in this mountain area requires preparation and some experience of mountain country.

Even in summer, day-walkers should carry warm clothing and some high-energy food, as the weather in this area can change rapidly.

Tramping and climbing parties should be prepared to stay overnight in the open in an emergency. Intention plans should be lodged with the park rangers. Weather conditions may delay search and rescue efforts, so parties should be self-sufficient and competent in all aspects of mountaineering. Local advice and guidance should be sought on any proposed activities.

Motorists should keep to the paved roads and not venture onto unsealed roads or 4-wheel-drive tracks unless they are sure of their driving abilities and the suitability of their vehicle for the terrain and road surface. Some (notional) roads in this area (most notably Balls Hut Rd) are so dangerous they are excluded from vehicle insurance policies. In winter, chains should be carried and used when roads are covered in snow.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park


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Aosta

Aosta (French: Aoste) is the capital of Italian autonomous region of Aosta Valley. The town is in a small valley with houses going up the slopes of the surrounding mountains.

Understand
The Roman colony of Augusta Praetoria Salassorum was founded by the general Marcus Terentius Varro, who conquered it from the Salassi tribe in 25 BC. The colony housed 3,000 retired veterans. After 11 BC Augusta Praetoria became the capital of the Alpes Graies ("Grey Alps") province of the Roman Empire. Its position, at the confluence of two rivers, at the end of the Great and the Little St Bernard passes, gave it considerable military importance, and its layout was that of a Roman military camp.

After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the city was ruled successively by the Burgundians, the Ostrogoths, the Byzantines and the Lombards (who had annexed it to their Italian kingdom but were later expelled by the Frankish Empire under Pepin the Short). Pepin's son, Charlemagne made Aosta an important post on the Via Francigena, leading from Aachen to Italy. Later it belonged to the kingdom of Savoy.

Get in
By plane: the nearest commercial airport is Turin TRN, with flights across Europe and within Italy. Aosta can also be reached from the Milan / Bergamo airports, and from Geneva GVA via the Mont Blanc Tunnel. Aosta's own airport handles private aviation but is too small and hemmed in by mountains for regular flights.

By train: Trains run hourly to Ivrea, 80 mins. These connect immediately with trains to Turin Porta Susa and may be shown on timetables and displays as through trains, but usually it's a change. For Milan and elsewhere in Italy, take the train towards Turin but change at Chivasso. Aosta is now the terminus of the line up the valley - trains no longer run further up to Pré-Saint-Didier. is just south of town centre.

By bus: three Savda buses per day link Aosta with Turin Porta Susa and Porta Nuova, taking two hours. Two of them extend west to Pré-Saint-Didier and Courmayeur. In addition, in the morning there's a bus from Martigny in Switzerland to Aosta and in the evening one back to Martigny. That bus only drives from Monday to Friday.

By car: The main road up the valley is Autoroute A5 (toll) from Turin, with a crosslink to A4 from Milan. It bypasses town to the south and continues west up the valley (mostly in tunnel) to Pré-Saint-Didier (turn-off for Little St Bernard pass, summer only, via La Thuile to Bourg-Saint-Maurice in France) and Courmayeur, where it enters the Mont Blanc tunnel to Chamonix in France.

The old valley road SS26 skirts Aosta to the north, with SS27 branching north to climb the Great Saint Bernard pass and tunnel (open year-round) to Martigny in Switzerland.

Get around
Aosta is a small town and, for the tourist, everything can be easily visited on foot.

The bottom for Pila ski resort is at Charvensod, 500 m south of Aosta railway station. A shuttle bus hairpins up the hill in the evenings when the cable-car isn't running.

See

 * Via Sant' Anselmo is Aosta's pleasant traffic-free main street, stretching from the Augustus Arch and river bridge at its east end, through the great Roman gateway of Porta Praetoria midway, Town Hall in Piazza Emile Chanoux, to end in the west at Piazza della Repubblica. All the main sights are along or just off this stretch.

 * Collegiata dei Santi Pietro e Orso at 14 Via Sant'Orso is a charming church, part of a still-functioning monastery. It dates to 10th century but is mostly 15th. There are notable frescoes and Gothic choir stalls, and a Romanesque cloister fronted by a later loggia.

 * Basilica di San Lorenzo at 12 Via Sant'Orso is now an art space.

Do

 * Ski: Pila is a small family-oriented ski resort just south of Aosta, you can drive up or take the cable-car from Charvensod. Pistes run from 2700 m down to 1765 m. Wooded and mostly intermediate / red standard, great views, but also a good choice for poor-viz days. It's often included on the lift passes of other nearby resorts, such as La Thuile and Courmayeur.

 * Mountain trekking, Alpinism, Rafting, traditional woodworks

 * Saint Ursus' Fair (Fiera di Sant'Orso) is held in town centre end of January, every year since 1000 AD. Dates for 2020 are not yet announced.

Buy
Aosta is a good place to stock up on local food products and wines.

Eat
It can be difficult finding a good restaurant open between 2 pm and 7 pm in Aosta. If you want to eat early, it'll be pizza, kebabs or similar fast food.

All restaurants offer a fixed price menu (menu turistico / menu a prezzo fisso) which is not very exciting but is good if you're watching the euros. Keep your receipt, the police sometimes check.

Lots of local specialities - look for the word "Valdostana" or "Valdôtaine" in the names of dishes. Carbonade is ground beef meat roasted in red wine. Fontina cheese is made locally. Tegole are sweet thin biscuits.

 * Not that you'll admit to wanting a change from Italian, but there are two Japanese eateries in town. These are Oishi Sushi at 74 Via Edouard Aubert, and I-Sushi at 45 Via B. Festaz.
 * Not that you'll admit to wanting a change from Italian, but there are two Japanese eateries in town. These are Oishi Sushi at 74 Via Edouard Aubert, and I-Sushi at 45 Via B. Festaz.
 * Not that you'll admit to wanting a change from Italian, but there are two Japanese eateries in town. These are Oishi Sushi at 74 Via Edouard Aubert, and I-Sushi at 45 Via B. Festaz.
 * Not that you'll admit to wanting a change from Italian, but there are two Japanese eateries in town. These are Oishi Sushi at 74 Via Edouard Aubert, and I-Sushi at 45 Via B. Festaz.
 * Not that you'll admit to wanting a change from Italian, but there are two Japanese eateries in town. These are Oishi Sushi at 74 Via Edouard Aubert, and I-Sushi at 45 Via B. Festaz.

Drink
Notable local wines include the white Blanc de Morgex et La Salle. Genepy is a strong olive-coloured liqueur, herbal and sweeter than absinthe, usually drunk neat.

 * Bar Haiti is north side of the centre near the hospital, at 1 Corso Saint Martin de Corleans.
 * Bar Haiti is north side of the centre near the hospital, at 1 Corso Saint Martin de Corleans.

Sleep

 * Le Reve Charmant is a small chalet B&B at Via Vaudan Marchè 6, west end of the pedestrianised centre.

Go next

 * Courmayeur

title: Aosta


text:
Aosta Valley

The Aosta Valley (Italian: Valle d'Aosta; French: Vallée d'Aoste; officially known as Regione Autonoma Valle d'Aosta - Région Autonome Vallée d'Aoste) is a region of Italy in the Alps, where there are the highest mountains in Europe, including Mont Blanc, Monte Rosa and Gran Paradiso (Grand Paradis).

Cities

 * (Aoste)

Other destinations

 * (Monte Bianco) – The highest mountain in Europe: 4810 m above sea level
 * (Grand Paradis)
 * (Grand Paradis)
 * (Grand Paradis)

Understand
Aosta Valley, which is the smallest of Italy's 20 regions, lies in the northwest of the country. It is formed by a central valley with the Dora Baltea (French: Doire baltée) river running through it and by 13 side valleys carved out by glaciers and torrents. Protected areas account for almost a third of the region, in order to safeguard biodiversity, and Aosta Valley is home to two natural parks: the Gran Paradiso (or Grand Paradis) National Park and the Mont Avic Regional Park. Known all over the world for the major climbing routes that have made mountaineering history, for its trekking itineraries and international-level ski resorts, Aosta Valley boasts an outstanding historical, cultural and artistic heritage, with Roman monuments, Mediaeval castles and Romanesque churches, as well as top-quality DOC-label wines and speciality foods.

Tourist information

 * Aosta Valley tourism website

Talk
The most spoken languages in Aosta Valley are French and Italian. In Gressoney-Saint-Jean, Gressoney-La-Trinité and Issime a minority also speaks Walser German and German, which is spoken further north across the border in Switzerland. The most widespread minority language is called Arpitan or Franco-Provençal (locally, Patois valdôtain).

Get in
From ancient times, Aosta Valley has been an important crossroads of the Western Alps. Today, it is linked with France through the Mont Blanc Tunnel and the Little St. Bernard Pass, and with Switzerland through the Great St. Bernard Pass and Tunnel.

Do
The Valley is an outdoor adventure lover's dream. In summer it offers a wide range of climbing and hiking options above the valley floor. In winter it is at the heart of the Italian skiing experience, with such famous areas as Courmayeur located here.

Thermal baths A great year-round activity is a visit to the Thermes de Pré-Saint-Didier. Incredibly relaxing in a beautiful setting overlooking Mont Blanc. See website for current prices and hours. Open late on Friday and Saturday evenings for nights under the stars. See Website

Summer activities
Rock climbing: There are crags bolted for sport climbing all over the area, between them offering climbs at all grades, and at lengths from 10m to over 350m. The best guide is "Mani Nude: Arrampicata sportiva in Valle d'Aosta" by Massimo Bal and Patrick Raspo. Publisher: Martini Multimedia Editore. ISBN: 88-901125-0-6. Published in 2003. New crags and sectors have been developed since the book came out, and some of the directions for reaching the climbs are not good enough, so check on websites such as http://www.climbonthe.net/valleaosta/valleaosta.htm.

Skiing
Breuil-Cervinia has access to both the Valtournenche and the Zermatt ski areas (at extra cost). However, early in the season the link to Zermatt is often closed, and the Cervinia area itself can also suffer from bad weather.

Many lifts have been upgraded in 2009, adding faster lifts with higher capacity.

Drink

 * Gamay - one of the local varieties of red wine grown on the terraced vineyards visible along the steep rock walls of the valley. It is a light red and doesn't age well, so it is best enjoyed on site in full view of the land it was grown on.

title: Aosta Valley


text:
Apache Junction

Apache Junction is a small city in Greater Phoenix, best known for its proximity to the rugged Superstition Mountains.

title: Apache Junction


text:
Apalachicola

Apalachicola is a city on the Forgotten Coast of the Florida Panhandle, on the Apalachicola River and Bay.

Understand
Miles of uncrowded pristine beaches, an endless supply of protected shallow bays, excellent fishing and acres of national and state forests to explore. Fine oysters and other seafood. Apalachicola or "Apalach", was established in 1831. It was once the third largest port on the Gulf of Mexico. Wide, tree lined streets are still graced by picturesque homes from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries show the wealth and craftsmanship of its early days. Apalachicola has over 900 historic homes and buildings listed in its extensive National Register District and it was selected as one of the nation's Dozen Distinctive Destinations in 2008 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

The Apalachicola basin encompasses what is considered one of the least polluted, most undeveloped, ecologically diverse systems left in the United States. The Apalachicola Estuarine Research Reserve (ANERR) oversees the health of this vast system. The ANERR is the second largest in the nation with over 246,000 acres under its protection. Apalachicola's vibrant history and rich maritime culture can still be seen on its working waterfront. Buildings that once served as 19th century ship's chandleries, old net factories and a sponge warehouse now house a mix of eclectic and trendy shops, restaurants, galleries and meticulously restored hotels and B&Bs.

These locally owned and operated businesses create a quaint and friendly atmosphere for visitors as well as local residents. A grand theater lies in the center of town (see "Do" below).

By car
Apalachicola lies on US-98/US-319. You can pick up US-319 through the national forest straight from Tallahassee (1.5 hours), and US-98 will lead in along the coast from Panama City (1 hour).

Get around
Apalachicola is small and easily seen on foot. It is laid back and very easy to navigate. Locals are glad to direct you wherever you need to go. Also there are boat and fishing tours available in the area.

Eat
This city is noted for having some of the finest oysters, its bay oysters having a pure, mild, briny flavor that has been recognized by top chefs throughout the country. Apalachicola harvests over 90% of the oysters sold in Florida and 10% of the nationwide supply. Smaller open bay boats, moored or trailered each day, tong for oysters in the many shallow areas of Apalachicola Bay. Fishing vessels displaying proud patinas of years of service line the waterfront and regularly net fresh local shrimp and fish. So not surprisingly, a diverse selection of acclaimed restaurants feature fresh, local, daily harvested seafood.

Drink
Most restaurants have a full bar and there are numerous liquor stores in the area. Check out the nightlife in Saint George and Eastpoint.

Go next

 * Apalachicola National Forest
 * Carrabelle
 * St. George Island
 * Tallahassee

title: Apalachicola


text:
Apalachicola National Forest

Apalachicola National Forest is in Florida in the United States.

Understand
The Apalachicola National Forest covers in Franklin, Leon, Liberty, and Wakulla counties in the Florida Panhandle. It is the largest of the three national forests in Florida and one of 154 national forests and grasslands in the United States administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The drainage areas of the Apalachicola National Forest are parts of the Sopchoppy, Ochlockonee, New River, and Apalachicola watershed basins.

Ranger District Offices
Visitor Information and Interpretive Displays are available at both district offices and the supervisor's office for the Apalachicola National Forest.

 * Apalachicola Ranger District, Bristol. Phone: +1 850 643-2282. Hours: M-Th 8AM-4:30PM, F 8AM-4PM.
 * Wakulla Ranger District, 57 Taft Drive, Crawfordville. Phone: +1 850 926-3561. Hours: M-Th 8AM-4:30PM, F 8AM-4PM.

History
The region was dominated by a longleaf pine and wiregrass ecosystem, similar in the coastal plain of the United States. The original old-growth forest had trees 90–120 feet tall, many of which were 120 to 250 years old, along with dense groves of younger tall saplings. The old-growth forest was cut between 1880 and the early 1900s for lumber. Many of the remaining pine trees were tapped for gum, which was distilled for turpentine and rosin.

In the mid-1930s the USDA Forest Service bought large areas of these damaged cutover lands. One such area became the Apalachicola National Forest in 1936. The mission of the Forest Service was conservation, to care for the land and assure that it would be used to serve the public. During and after World War II demand was great for timber, and the availability of heavy equipment allowed extensive harvest in this and other national forests. Clearcut areas were prepared and replanted with slash pine. The older pine trees have regenerated naturally from stands cut between 1900 and 1935, but about 25% of the acreage that was originally native longleaf is now in slash pine plantations (58,000 acres). In 1992, Forest Service policy shifted away from clearcutting to one of promoting ecosystem health and sustainability.

The current policies for the Apalachicola National Forest are spelled out in legislation:

 * Multiple Use Sustained Yield Act 1960
 * Wilderness Act of 1964
 * National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969
 * Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973
 * National Forest Management Act (NFMA) of 1976
 * Revised Land and Resource Management Plan for National Forests in Florida 1999

Landscape
The generally flat terrain of the forest is pocked by bays, sinkholes, and swamps. Some soils are excessively drained, others poorly drained. The largest area of natural forest is dominated by longleaf pine and slash pine with an understory of palmetto, gallberry, and wiregrass. The Munson Sandhills just south of Tallahassee have turkey oak and bluejack oak, species favored by the deep well-drained sandy soil, as well as pine.

The geological sinks in the area are surrounded by mesic hardwood forests. The Apalachicola Savannas in the southwestern section of the forest have longleaf pine on their sandy ridges but also include large treeless concave areas with a highly diverse wetland herbaceous community. The forest includes many seepage bogs and numerous bay, cypress, gum, and titi swamps, where black gum, red maple, and wax myrtle are common.

Flora and fauna
The Apalachicola National Forest is home to seven endangered animals and one plant listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under the Endangered Species Act. The endangered animals are the gray bat, red-cockaded woodpecker, wood stork, and four mollusks. The endangered plant is Harper's beauty.

Threatened species included five animals and three plants. The animals are the bald eagle, the eastern indigo snake, the flatwoods salamander, the Gulf sturgeon and the purple bankclimber mussel. The threatened plants are white birds-in-a-nest, Godfrey's butterwort, and the Florida skullcap. The Forest Service monitors these species plus an additional set (like the black bear and the gopher tortoise) whose population viability is plants and considered to be sensitive.

Alligators are present in this forest. They are an important part of Florida's ecology and may be found wherever there is a body of water. They have a natural fear of man, but may lose that fear by being around people especially if they are fed. When this happens alligators can be dangerous. For this reason alligators should not be fed or molested in any way.

Climate
The temperatures for the dry months of November through February range from a daily average of to a high of. The summer season is much warmer and wetter. Short afternoon thundershowers often raise the humidity to about 90%, while the temperatures range from to. The average rainfall is approximately $$ per year.

Get in
The Apalachicola National Forest is about southwest of Tallahassee. The only way to reach it is by car, as there is no public transportation to this destination.

Fees and permits
The vast majority of the forest is free to visit, however, certain areas of the forest (such as campgrounds) may require a fee for use.

Get around
There are roads, trails, and paths throughout Apalachicola National Forest.

See
The Apalachicola National Forest has six day use areas, four of which are fee areas. Each fee area is a self-service fee area (exact change required or checks made out to USDA Forest Service are accepted). The fee is $3 per vehicle. An annual pass for $40 may be purchased, which covers all day use fee areas on the Apalachicola National Forest. No alcoholic beverages are allowed in any of these areas. Abundant wildlife may be seen in each area, including birds and alligators. All day-use areas are open from 8AM to 8PM from May to September and from 8AM to 6PM from October to April. The annual pass is also valid for day-use and camping at Hickory Landing, Mack Landing and Whitehead Lake.

A map of all the recreation areas in Apalachicola National Forest can be downloaded (PDF format) here.

Camel Lake Recreation Area
Camel Lake Recreation Area in Liberty County has a designated swim area with a white sand beach on a beautiful lake. A nearby bathhouse includes flush toilets. Outdoor (cold water only) showers for rinsing off are provided. Picnic tables and grills are scattered among trees with views of the lake. One medium sized shelter is provided on a first come basis. A water fountain and some water spigots are available. The site is fairly level and easily accessible to people in wheelchairs. A small boat ramp is available. Motorized boat use is limited to electric trolling motors. Three trails are nearby: the Florida National Scenic Trail, the Trail of Lakes, and the Camel Lake Interpretive Trail. A volunteer host lives on site. Camping is also available here. Day-use fee: $3 per vehicle per day.

Fort Gadsden Historical Site
Fort Gadsden in Franklin County is the site of an historic fort and several battles. Interpretive exhibits and artifacts are displayed along a level pathway on the banks of the Apalachicola River. Picnic tables, drinking water and vault toilets are available. This area is also accessible by boat. No fee.

Leon Sinks Geological Area
Leon Sinks in Leon County is a designated Geological Area featuring interpretive signs and views of sinkholes from a system of boardwalks and trails. Picnic tables, a kiosk, a water fountain, and a restroom with flush toilets are available. The sinks at Leon Sinks are unique, fragile areas with very steep sides. Both humans and dogs have drowned in the sinks. To protect you and the sinks, a number of uses are prohibited at Leon Sinks: swimming, diving, motor vehicles (except in the parking area), hunting, mountain biking, horseback riding, and ATV and motorcycle riding. Day-use fee: $3 per vehicle per day.

Lost Lake Recreation Area
Lost Lake in Leon County offers picnicking by a small lake. Restrooms and drinking water are not provided at this location. The lake and beach are no longer maintained for swimming. No fee.

Silver Lake Recreation Area
Silver Lake in Leon County has a designated swim area with a white sand beach on a beautiful lake. A nearby bathhouse includes flush toilets and hot showers. Picnic tables and grills are scattered among trees with views of the lake. Three picnic shelters are available on a first come basis. One shelter is an historic CCC constructed shelter. Water fountains are available. The site is fairly level and easily accessible to people in wheelchairs. A small boat ramp is available. Motorized boat use is limited to electric trolling motors. A one-mile interpretive trail winds around the lake. A volunteer host lives on site. No camping. Day-use fee: $3 per vehicle per day.

Wright Lake Recreation Area
Wright Lake in Franklin County has a designated swim area with a small white sand beach on a beautiful lake. A nearby bathhouse includes flush toilets and hot showers. Picnic tables and grills are scattered among trees with views of the lake. A water fountain is available. The site is fairly level and easily accessible to people in wheelchairs. A 5-mile interpretive trail winds around the lake. A volunteer host lives on site. Camping is also available here. Day-use fee: $3 per vehicle per day.

Special Interest Areas

 * Bradwell Tract - This 1500-acre area of upland pine borders the Ochlockonee River. In the last century, it was managed as a private game farm. The area is scenic and has some sites and buildings of historic interest. Parking is available. Trails exist, but are not blazed. Overnight camping is not allowed.
 * Lake Bradford Tract - This area is managed for education, interpretation, and recreation in partnership with the Tallahassee Museum of History and Natural Science.
 * Leon Sinks - Several outstanding limestone sinks and many other smaller ones make this 640-acre area unique. The sinks vary. One is sheer walled with a beautiful pool below. Another is shallow with a clear pool. A third one is dry and has several large magnolias inside.
 * Morrison Hammock - This 300-acre area near the banks of the Sopchoppy River is a well developed hardwood hammock with specimen trees of spruce pine and loblolly pine. The area also contains spring boils. The area does not have any identifying signs, parking area, or trails.
 * River Sinks - There is no public access to river sinks. This 350-acre parcel encompasses a good example of a sinkhole in a karst plain. The lack of human activity in the immediate vicinity has kept the sinkhole in near natural condition.
 * Rocky Bluff - Located on a bluff overlooking the Ochlockonee River, this 225-acre area has some large specimens of bottomland hardwood trees, as well as dogwoods and redbuds. The area does not have any identifying signs, parking area, or trails.
 * Savannahs - These wet prairies range from 10 to 500 acres. They are home to an unusually diverse array of herbs and grasses that can tolerate being under water several months every year and being burned every 2 to 4 years.

Apalachee Savannahs Scenic Byway
The Appalachee Scenic Byway is designated along a 31 miles (50km) of roads that traverse the western end of the Apalachicola National Forest. The flat, grassy savannahs are home to a wide variety of wildflowers such as orchids and carnivorous sundews, pitcher plants and butterwarts. The byway passes through forests of oak, cypress, and long leaf pine, and is home to several varieties of wildlife, including the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker.

Bicycling
Bicycles are welcome on public roads in the Forest, on designated motorized trails and on the designated mountain bike trail at Munson Hills in Leon County. The public roads are fairly level, but may be deep sand. Public parking for Munson Hills Trail is available at the St. Marks Bicycle Trailhead on Woodville Highway, just south of Capital Circle. The mountain bike trail is on sandy soil with gently rolling slopes through narrow pine trees. The trail is marked by blue blazes and divided into two loops: an 8-mile loop and a 5-mile loop. A bike rack, water fountain, and restrooms are available near the trail entrance.

You can download a map (PDF format) of the Munson Hills Trail here.

Hiking
The Apalachicola National Forest has approximately 85 miles of designated hiking trails, although hikers are welcome anywhere in the Forest. Pets are allowed, but must be restrained or on a leash.

The Apalachicola National Forest offers six interpretive trails: Camel Lake (1 mile), Fort Gadsden (1/2 mile), Leon Sinks (5 miles), Silver Lake (1 mile), Trail of Lakes (9 miles), and Wright Lake (5 miles). Camel Lake in Liberty County is marked with blue blazes and is one loop. Fort Gadsden in Franklin County is marked with blue blazes and is one loop. Leon Sinks in Leon County has two loops and has blue, green, and white blazes on different sections. Silver Lake in Leon County is marked with blue blazes and is a single loop. The Trail of Lakes in Liberty County is marked with blue blazes and is a single loop. Wright Lake in Franklin County is marked with blue and white blazes on different sections, but is a single loop. Fee: Applicable if parking in a developed recreation (fee) area.

Part of the Florida National Scenic Trail passes through the Apalachicola National Forest. The Trail travels approximately from Southeast to Northwest through the Forest. It is an orange blazed trail, unpaved for hiking, 68.7 miles total. Much of this trail is flat, dry pine and palmetto fields with occasional titi swamps. Please be aware that in periods of heavy rain, certain portions of the trail may be ankle to waist-deep in water.

Horseback riding
The Apalachicola National Forest has one designated horse trail in Leon County, although horse riders are welcome almost anywhere in the Forest (including on public roads). Horses are not allowed on the Florida National Scenic Trail (hiking only) or in developed recreation areas. There are few designated trailheads, so many individuals choose to park alongside a Forest road near where they want to ride. As long as vehicles do not obstruct traffic or destroy natural resources, this is permitted. Camping with horses in the general Forest area is allowed. Horses are also allowed in the primitive hunt camps (no amenities), although cleaning up after the horses is expected and appreciated.

The Vinzant Horse Trail in Leon County, is the only designated horse trail on the Forest. The trail has 2 loops (which overlap): an 11-mile loop and a 23-mile loop. The trail is marked with white, blue, and yellow blazes on different sections. The trailhead (a mowed field with no amenities) is located near the intersection of Forest Road 342 and State Route 267.

Lodging
There are no hotels or motels within Apalachicola National Forest. Try the nearby cities of Apalachicola or Tallahassee if you need traditional lodging.

Camping
Camping can be enjoyed during all seasons on the Apalachicola National Forest, although summer camping would be without air conditioning. None of the campgrounds have hook ups and generators may not be run after 10pm. Be aware that at certain times of the year, due to high fire danger, open fires may not allowed. Visitors may stay a maximum of 14 days within a 30-day period, in one location, except during hunting season. Campsites are available on a first come basis; there are no reservations. Pets are allowed, but must be restrained or on a leash.

The Apalachicola National Forest has developed and dispersed camping opportunities. Only developed campgrounds have fees. There are no group campgrounds or cabins on the Apalachicola National Forest.

There are five designated campgrounds (fee areas)

Camel Lake Recreation Area Campground
Camel Lake in Liberty County has 10 campsites with views of Camel Lake. Each campsite has a picnic table, a grill, and a fire ring. Drinking water is available. The bathhouse includes flush toilets and hot showers. Camel Lake is fairly level and easily accessible to people in wheelchairs. A volunteer host lives on site. Picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities are also available here. No alcohol is allowed on site. Fee: $8.00 per campsite per night.

Hickory Landing Boat Ramp & Hunt Campground
Hickory Landing in Franklin County has 12 campsites. Each campsite has a picnic table with a grill or fire ring. Drinking water is available. Vault toilets are provided. A volunteer host lives on site. A concrete boat ramp is available. Fee: $3 per vehicle per day.

Mack Landing Boat Ramp & Hunt Campground
Mack Landing in Wakulla County has 10 campsites. Each campsite has a picnic table with a grill or fire ring. Drinking water is available. Vault toilets are provided. A concrete boat ramp is available. Fee: $3 per vehicle per day.

Whitehead Landing Boat Ramp & Hunt Campground
Whitehead Landing in Liberty County has 6 campsites. Each campsite has a picnic table with a grill or fire ring. Drinking water is available. Vault toilets are provided. A concrete boat ramp is available. Fee: $3 per vehicle per day.

Wright Lake Recreation Area Campground
Wright Lake in Franklin County has 20 campsites. Each campsite has a picnic table, a grill, and a fire ring. Drinking water is available. The bathhouse includes flush toilets and hot showers. A dump station for RVs is available. Wright Lake is fairly level and easily accessible to people in wheelchairs. A volunteer host lives on site. Picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities are also available here. No alcohol is allowed on site. Fee: $8 per campsite per night.

Backcountry
Except during general gun hunting season (usually mid-November through mid-February), you may camp anywhere on the Forest (outside of developed recreation areas) for a maximum of 14 days within a 30-day period, in one location. Remember to remove all garbage and trash, leave vegetation intact, and preserve water systems. Please make every effort to maintain the natural state of the area and protect it from overuse.

Go next

 * Tallahassee
 * Apalachicola
 * Quincy (Florida)

title: Apalachicola National Forest


text:
Apam

Apam is a town in Coastal Plain region of Ghana. Apam is the site of Fort Lijdzaamheid or Fort Patience, a Dutch-built fort which was completed in 1702, which dominates the fishing harbour and town from a rocky peninsula on the south side of the town.

Get in
Take a tro-tro from Kaneshie station in Accra (this can be reached from Nkrumah Circle and any point in the city by taxi) to Apam or Cape Coast, the latter will drop you off at the nearby (8–10 km) junction where traffic to the village is reasonably frequent. This will cost about GH₵12,000 while a Taxi ride from Accra or Cape Coast will cost at minimum 200,000.

Get around
Taxis are not needed, or even desirable since to really soak up this pleasant and bustling village you need to be on foot. Still, if you really need the drive to the fort or beach then the Motor Park where you arrive provides ample transport options.

See
Fort Patience construction began in 1697 but its completion did not occur until 1702. Hence the name they gave to the fort - Lijdzaamheid, meaning 'patience'. According to the local tour guide the fort was used as a holding place for slaves. In the slave quarters you will find shackles and weapons. There are great views over the bay and over the busy fish market right by the beach. The market is a superb way to take in the local culture and way of life as well as being a melange of colourful sights and sounds. It is one of several forts along the Ghanan coast making up the UNESCO World Heritage site "Forts and Castles, Volta, Greater Accra, Central and Western Regions"

Do
Beaches: The beaches along the fishing area are calm but somewhat polluted. The beaches on the other side have stronger waves but are preferable for relaxing.

Churches: Many of the churches offer English sermons.

Adventure: A ride in a fishing boat is easily arranged with a few extra cedis encouragement, but don't go nuts, GH₵30,000 should be a maximum per person!

Buy
The fish market leads onto the main one where there is plenty in food terms but little in craft or cloth.

Eat
In nearby Apam Junction:

If you're feeling adventurous, then chop (Ghanaian word for food) is available at some bars and the markets, but going to Winneba or even onto Cape coast may provide a better meal.

Drink
A decent range of spots of the usual Ghana standard with the usual Ghana standards-limited beers and soft drinks.

Sleep

 * Smayak Hotel, also in Apam Jct off Mankessin-Accra Highway. Festive swimming pool. +233 24 369 0511

Or, for a more relaxed, environmentally-centered experience, try the Lagoon Lodge in Winneba.

Go next
Tro-tros and line taxis ply the route to the junction as well as to Winneba junction. From these places transport can be found to Accra, Cape Coast as well as sites in the area.

title: Apam


text:
Apamea

Apamea is a former city and lesser known set of ruins located north of Hama, Syria.

Get in
Apamea is easily accessible via hired driver from the nearby city of Hama. Local hotels in Hama are able to provide hired drivers to take you to the area on a day trip which can include other nearby sites.

Get around
The bus services from Hama will normally deposit you in town, a few hundred metres from the site. It is a short walk up the hill, or you may be offered a ride on a 125cc motorcycle by a who may or may not expect (or demand) money for the service, which should only be a few coins.

Getting around the site is easy, though it is large (several miles in either direction) it is a fairly easy walk. There is no formal disabled access, and much of the site is ruins. Wheelchair access might be possible (the paving in the colonnade is still mostly intact), but you'd be trying your luck.

Several Syrian tour companies offer guided tours of the site, which usually include a meal at the restaurant.

See
The ruins of Apamea (or Persian Afemea) are small enough to handle on foot. Because of its high elevation, the area is frequently foggy and wet leaving a unique haze in the area. Lichens and moss cover much of the surrounding landscape. While Apamea is considered a lesser known attraction in Syria, many locals describe the area as more impressive than its famous counterpart to the east, Palmyra. Surrounding the Apamea ruins are the dead city sites of Serjilla and Al Bara.

There are several sets of ruins at the site, with more excavations still being undertaken in 2008. The colonnade on the main street of Apamea is a mile long and, in true Roman style, is dead straight, providing interesting 'vanishing point' photography. There is also a citadel at the site, which has seen locals move in and build around it, and several, smaller ruins heading away from town on the access road.

Access to all of these parts of the site are paid for with one single ticket, worth only a few American dollars. You are then permitted to walk around most of the vast site by yourself. Several tourist guidebooks are available in several European languages.

In the old caravanserai in the town is a museum with some nice mosaics from Apamea.

Do
Take photos, walk, avoid the rubbish dumped at the site by locals and fend off the local touts (nowhere near as bad as at Palmyra, though). The town, only a few hundred metres away, has high unemployment and little to offer most tourists,

Buy
Fake coins from the local touts on motorbikes. The coins make a great souvenir and help provide a little income to local families.

Eat
There is a restaurant at the site that serves basic renditions of Western food.

Drink
Bring your own and bring plenty, especially in summer.

Sleep
There's not really anywhere to sleep near here. Come on a day trip from Hama or Homs. Maybe you could bring a tent or swag to camp nearby?

title: Apamea


text:
Apaneca

Apaneca is a small village in El Salvador with some great big attractions for adventurous travelers. There's mountains, forests, and two nearby volcanoes for the hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Close to town is an outdoor adventure park with a labyrinth of natural vegetation as well as zip lines and similar thrill attractions.

Understand
This area is noted for its abundance of coffee plantations, handicraft vendors, flowers and volcanic backdrops. A rough itinerary of sorts has been developed called the Route of the Flowers (Rutas de las Flores) that incorporates the towns of Salcoatitán, Nahuizalco, Juayúa, Apaneca, and Concepción de Ataco on a day's drive, though Apaneca has enough to keep a visitor busy for 2-3 days.

By bus
Transportes Maritza Esmeralde runs several route 205 buses between San Salvador and Sonsonate. Buses depart every 30 minutes throughout the day. The 90-minute ride costs about US$2. Once in Sonsonate, change to the route 249 bus to Apaneca. Buses depart every 15 minutes for the 75 minute trip which costs about US$2.

Go next

 * Juayúa
 * Sonsonate
 * Santa Ana

title: Apaneca


text:
Apeldoorn

Apeldoorn is a city with a royal touch, famous for its palace and beautiful gardens. It lies on the edge of National Park the Veluwe, and is an excellent base to explore this region's lush natural surroundings.

Understand
With a population nearing 160,000, Apeldoorn is the 12th largest city of the Netherlands and plays a significant role in the regional economy and infrastructure. Billed as a post-World War II groeistad (a city designated by the government to grow significantly), much of the city is modern residential areas and business districts. Previous to the war, Apeldoorn was only a large village; thus much of its history, sights and attractions are concentrated in the north west quarter of the city, the original core. This area is home to the famous 17th century palace Het Loo, beautiful parks with stately villa neighbourhoods, the ape zoo Apenheul and the eastern flank of the forestry area known as the Veluwe. The city centre offers a relatively generic range of shopping opportunities, but has plenty of good places to eat. The northern end of the city centre has some picturesque art nouveau architecture and the nightlife and entertainment venues of Apeldoorn.

Apeldoorn is known for its spacious, green, family atmosphere and is at its best during the summer months.

By plane
Schiphol Airport near Amsterdam is the nearest and largest airport. From there, directly under the arrivals area, regular trains can be boarded that take just over an hour to reach Apeldoorn. By car, the journey takes fractionally longer and will involve navigating the ring roads around Amsterdam before hitting the A1.

Eindhoven Airport caters to low-cost airlines, and though the train journey to Apeldoorn from Eindhoven is roughly doubled (see below), the journey by car (if hiring) via the A50 motorway is straightforward and under 1.5 hours.

Teuge Airport (No IATA Code, but ICAO Code is EHTE) is a small general aviation airfield 3.5 NM northeast of Apeldoorn.

By car
The A1 (running from east to west) and the A50 (running north to south) meet at Apeldoorn, making the city particularly well connected by road. Smaller provincial roads lead to all nearby destinations.

By train
Direct intercity services connect Apeldoorn to both Amsterdam Zuid and Schiphol Airport. In both cases the journey will take roughly one hour. From Amsterdam's Central Station, use a combination of domestic intercity services (Amsterdam — Hilversum — Apeldoorn or Amsterdam — Utrecht — Amersfoort — Apeldoorn) for a journey time of roughly 75 minutes, or, if time is valuable, use the international intercity train between Berlin and Amsterdam. Twice hourly international trains in both directions can be boarded and used for national and cross border travel purposes. For international tickets, book online at the NS international website.

From Eindhoven, you should head to Utrecht, changing there for either a direct train to Apeldoorn, or depending on the schedule you may find it quicker to head to Amersfoort from Utrecht, changing again for more frequent services to Apeldoorn. This journey is likely to take around 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Alight at Apeldoorn for the regional Apeldoorn-Zutphen route that stops at various smaller settlements in the picturesque countryside, terminating at the historic town of Zutphen and in Winterswijk during evenings and weekends. During the summer, a heritage steam locomotive service is operated from Apeldoorn central station, running to Dieren some 20 km to the south.

Get around
The local bus service is an efficient way to get around. All local buses meet at the railway station where you can switch buses at :16 and :46. During day time additional services run at :01 and :31 on most lines. Regional buses also run from the station out of town; however, they can be used for local transport also. Just remember that connection times will be slightly worse at the bus station for the regional lines. During tourist season an extra bus service (line 16) departs from the station towards major tourist attractions, all located in the western part of Apeldoorn.

You can rent a bicycle at the railway station using an OV-Chipkaart, though more standard bike rentals are also available around the city.

Parks and complexes

 * Kroondomein Het Loo (Het Loo Crown Domain). In total some 10350 ha of forest, heath, arable land and gardens belonging to the Dutch Royal family, about three quarters of which close to facilitate the King's controversial hunting during the months of September through to December. Within the domain, which belonged to the Royal family from 1684 to 1975, are one of the few palaces of the Netherlands, a Late Medieval castle, as well as ornate gardens and other show-pieces.

 * Loenense Watervallen (Loenen Waterfalls). The Netherlands may be infamously flat, but the Veluwe is one of the exceptions to the rule. This makes that the wider surroundings of Apeldoorn are rich in water mills, as the heigh differences provide the means to power them. The Loenen Waterfalls were constructed to provide water for the Apeldoorns Kanaal (Apeldoorn Canal). The water falls can be turned on and off, as they are man-made. The big waterfall has a height difference of some 15 m. Getting to the waterfalls takes a small walk or hike, as only the large waterfall is close to a car park, which can be found along the Beekbergerweg near the intersection with the Vrijenbergspreng. Going on a hike along the man-made spreng, you will find many more smaller weirs and waterfalls.
 * Loenense Watervallen (Loenen Waterfalls). The Netherlands may be infamously flat, but the Veluwe is one of the exceptions to the rule. This makes that the wider surroundings of Apeldoorn are rich in water mills, as the heigh differences provide the means to power them. The Loenen Waterfalls were constructed to provide water for the Apeldoorns Kanaal (Apeldoorn Canal). The water falls can be turned on and off, as they are man-made. The big waterfall has a height difference of some 15 m. Getting to the waterfalls takes a small walk or hike, as only the large waterfall is close to a car park, which can be found along the Beekbergerweg near the intersection with the Vrijenbergspreng. Going on a hike along the man-made spreng, you will find many more smaller weirs and waterfalls.
 * Loenense Watervallen (Loenen Waterfalls). The Netherlands may be infamously flat, but the Veluwe is one of the exceptions to the rule. This makes that the wider surroundings of Apeldoorn are rich in water mills, as the heigh differences provide the means to power them. The Loenen Waterfalls were constructed to provide water for the Apeldoorns Kanaal (Apeldoorn Canal). The water falls can be turned on and off, as they are man-made. The big waterfall has a height difference of some 15 m. Getting to the waterfalls takes a small walk or hike, as only the large waterfall is close to a car park, which can be found along the Beekbergerweg near the intersection with the Vrijenbergspreng. Going on a hike along the man-made spreng, you will find many more smaller weirs and waterfalls.

Do
Rent yourself a bike and discover the forests just outside town (approx. 20 minutes by bike from the city center). See: Apeldoorn Cycle Route - Het Loo Palace and the Royal Forest.

Buy
The city's main shopping area is formed by the "Hoofdstraat" and adjacent streets. Being a regional shopping destination, Apeldoorn boasts a wide range of typical brand name shops and places to eat. The Oranjerie, a modern mall, takes centre stage in Apeldoorn's retail proffer. The city is also home to a range of more unique shops (antique, bric-a-brac, art, organic), mainly located on the Asselsestraat and a few of the smaller offshoots from the high street. As of 2015, some gross retail stores opened as part of the Omnisport complex (located towards the eastern fringe of the city). These include electronics giant MediaMarkt and various sports related stores.

Eat
Apeldoorn offers a wide range of good places to eat out, catering for all budgets. The main concentration is found in the city centre, but some of the priciest places are dotted around the outskirts of town. Here is a tiny selection:

Budget
Apeldoorn also has 3 McDonald's, 3 Subways, 2 New York Pizza takeaways, a KFC, Domino's, Burger King and scores of Dutch "snackbars" (specializing in fries), if fast food is required.

Mid-range

 * Indiaas Restaurant Apeldoorn: India Palace. Van Kinsbergenstraat 7, 7311 BL Apeldoorn, Netherlands +3155 - 785 01 78 Nice Indian Food. Open every day from 17.00 - 23.00. Extra care for vegetarians.

Drink
The main nightlife in Apeldoorn is focussed in the Caterplein square. Many bars and restaurants, as well as the new (2012) cinema complex, can be found here. A slightly quieter area can be found a few blocks away at the Leienplein. Also en route between the two squares are plenty of places to eat and drink. Here is a small selection of some of the most well known watering holes:

Sleep
Apeldoorn and the surrounding area plays host to the highest concentration of campsites and bungalow/greenparks in the country. The city itself boast quite a wide range of relatively expensive hotels and B&Bs. Check the plentiful local AirBnB listings or couch-surfing community for budget and backpacking opportunities.

Go next
The city lies on the eastern fringe of the Veluwe, the country's largest and most unspoilt area of natural beauty. It has forests that are home to deer, wild boar and other wild animals, as well as large desert-like sandy areas. Seasonal wild is prepared at various local restaurants, some of which have earned Michelin stars. The Kröller-Müller Museum, with its impressive collection of Vincent van Gogh paintings, is located in the Hoge Veluwe National Park.

The picturesque old cities of Deventer and Zutphen are just 15 km from Apeldoorn and are easily reachable by road or public transport.

title: Apeldoorn


text:
Apex

Apex, the "Peak City", is a town near Raleigh in the state of North Carolina.

By car
NC 55 comes north from Fuquay-Varina or south from Durham. US 64 meets NC 55 in Apex and comes west from Pittsboro or east from Cary.

By bus
GoTriangle route 311 goes to Apex from the Regional Transit Center, with connections to Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and other parts of the Triangle. Route 305 from Raleigh also stops at Lake Pine Plaza on the outskirts of Apex. These are just limited commuter services, though, so look up the schedules beforehand and plan carefully.

Get around
There are some local cab services due to its proximity to Raleigh and Durham.

Go next

 * Chapel Hill
 * Durham
 * Cary
 * Raleigh
 * Greensboro

title: Apex


text:
Apex Mountain Ski Resort

Apex Mountain Alpine Resort is a ski village in the Okanagan region of British Columbia. The closest city is Penticton. Apex is distinguished by its big-mountain terrain with a small-mountain village and vibe. The locals are fervent in their advocacy of the mountain. The lift lines are generally nonexistent but for weekends when the 'city people' come up and take over the slopes, village and parking lot. Unless it is an epic powder day the locals will stay at home on the weekends. Characterized by the 'Cheers' effect (i.e.: everybody knows your name) Apex is without doubt one of the friendliest hills in British Columbia. No one cares about sporting the latest styles in winterwear, rather they care about what's really important: the snow, and getting the most out of their beloved hill.

Get in
The only method into the village is by road. It is about a 35-45 minute drive from Penticton. Follow Green Mountain Road 20 km from town and turn right at the Apex Guest Ranch. If travelling from Keremeos then turn left at the ranch. You can also take your chances on the Hedley Corkscrew Road which winds down the mountain to Hedley via a system of tight switchbacks perched on steep cliffs. This is not recommended in the winter without a very good 4x4 vehicle (e.g. a Hummer).

Get around
Well, you will want to ski of course! You can ski from the upper village to the main part, where the hotels and restaurants are located. Otherwise, you will have to drive or snowmobile.

Winter

 * Nordic Skiing.
 * Back country snowmobile tours are available. Afternoon and day excursions. Snowmobile rental and guide.
 * Alpine Skiing
 * Play Hockey, or just skate some loops at the NHL sized skating rink. Maintained with a Zamboni. Closed for private functions occasionally. Skate rentals available.
 * Go Skating, through the trees on the 1 km long skating loop. Every once in a while there is a bonfire at the side of the loop. Skate rentals available.
 * Go Tubing, in the lift accessed tube park. Inquire locally for times.
 * Go Skating, through the trees on the 1 km long skating loop. Every once in a while there is a bonfire at the side of the loop. Skate rentals available.
 * Go Tubing, in the lift accessed tube park. Inquire locally for times.

Summer

 * Mountain biking
 * Apex has a brief summer season. Most on-hill facilities are shutdown during the summer, so you may have to make it a day trip from Penticton unless you know someone. Although there are some year-round residents at Apex, in the summer it generally resembles a ghost town.
 * Fishing
 * You can also go fishing at nearby . If you plan to fish make absolute sure you have a valid fishing license, as conservation officials are able to confiscate all your gear including boats or vehicles and hit you with a stiff fine.

Buy
There is not much to buy up at Apex other than food and your lift ticket.

title: Apex Mountain Ski Resort


text:
Aphrodisias

Aphrodisias is the ruin of a Roman city in the Southern Aegean region of Turkey, and a for its wealth of remains. Geyre is the small modern village next to it, deriving its name from Caria an early Grecian state absorbed by the Roman Empire.

Understand
Aphrodisias (Ἀφροδισιάς) was a settlement in Caria near a marble quarry. This marble was worked into fine sculpture (other quarries usually shipped out rough blocks to be carved nearer their customers) and erected as monuments to the local fertility goddess. During the Hellenistic period (4th to 1st century BC), this deity became one and the same as Aphrodite or Venus. Her early depictions were of a vast-hipped and sometimes multi-breasted earth mother, but by the time the town sculptors set to work she was more like a matronly civic protector, soberly garbed. She's not an erotic figure, unlike the luscious Aphrodite of Knidos carved at Datça in 364 BC. However she was sprightly enough to ride the sea-goat that we call Capricorn, according to details on her tunic shown in the museum.

The town was Christianised and a bishopric when that became the Roman religion, and pagan statues were smashed up or defaced. But more damaging were continual earthquakes: the 4th century AD quake also diverted water courses and made the town flood-prone, that of the 7th century was the final straw and the place was abandoned. It became covered over by dust and later settlement. However many fragments of monuments had been incorporated into the city walls, with inscriptions still legible, and these drew antiquarian interest in early modern times.

The first systematic excavations in 1904/05 revealed that much of the Roman city was built at the behest of Gaius Julius Zoilus. This man had been a slave of Julius Caesar, set free and richly rewarded by his successor Octavian. He returned as a wealthy free man to his home town with suitable gratitude to Octavian, and this mighty Emperor always favoured the city. Excavations continue, and in the 1960s the modern village of Geyre was shifted away from the site to stand 2 km west.

Get in
By far the easiest is to drive here, using D585 between Nazilli and Tavas. (From Denizli / Pamukkale to the east, circle the mountain south via Tavas not north via Nazilli.) There's a parking lot within the site and another at the village crossroads, effectively an overspill.

Geyre is not on the inter-city bus routes so you need to track down a dolmuş plying this road. Ask to be set down at dörtyol the crossroads by the site entrance rather than Geyre main village.

Hiring a taxi for the day, say from Denizli, will save a lot of waiting around for connections and anxiety about getting back before nightfall.

Get around
From Geyre village to the site entrance is 2 km along a main highway: there's no sidewalk but traffic is light. If you stay in the village, ask if the west service gate is open, a shorter walk on a quiet lane.

The paths around the site are in good repair.

See

 * Reckon 2-3 hours to explore the site, which is open daily Apr-Sep 09:00-19:00, Oct-Mar to 18:00. As of Oct 2023, admission is 280 TL.

 * exhibits a wide range of sculptures, reliefs and other artifacts from the area.
 * Sebasteion just south of the museum is a temple to the Roman Emperor - in the western empire such a temple is called an Augusteum. Caesar Augustus or Octavian was the adopted son of Julius Caesar and hugely extended the empire, becoming a cult figure. His dynasty claimed divine descent from Venus/Aphrodite and were similarly worshipped, even those successors who were feeble incompetents, barking mad or dirty old goats. (Zoilus the civic father had especial reason to glorify Octavian.) Dynasties elsewhere liked the sound of this and the title of "August" has been taken by rulers as diverse as the Holy Roman Emperor, Brian Boru King of Ireland, and the chief clown of a circus who the custard pie always misses.
 * Tetrapylon is the monumental gateway to a plaza in front of the Temple of Aphrodite, now grassed over.
 * from the 7th century BC venerated a local fertility goddess, who by the 1st century BC was subsumed into the cult of Aphrodite. A grander temple was then erected and became the focal point of town, and base for the sculptors. In the 480s AD the Christians partly dismantled it, turned it into a basilica, and hacked away at images of the pagan goddess.
 * is one of the best-preserved anywhere. It could seat 30,000, and measures about 270 m by 60 m. When the city theatre was smashed in the earthquake of 7th century BC, the stadium was partly re-purposed to stage those events.
 * Bouleuterion or Odeon is 50 m south of the Temple on the side of North Agora. Built maybe 200 AD, it was the council chamber and general-purpose secular events venue. It's now an open semicircular auditorium fronted by a shallow stage, with intact lower tiers of marble seats. It was built to seat 1750, but the upper seating has collapsed, along with the vaulted hall that once covered it. That may have happened by 400 AD, when the space was adapted as a palaestra or wrestling ground, and notches were cut in the seating to support poles for awnings.
 * Bishop's Palace just west of the Bouleuterion is from the late Roman era, showing the city's continuing importance in early Christian times.
 * Agora the public plaza and market place is south of the Bouleuterion, with a north and south colonnaded section.
 * dates from his reign in the 2nd century AD. The main surviving hall is the caldarium, the hot room.
 * means a church built at a site of martyrdom, but it's not known who that might be, or even the date - anywhere between 200 and 600 AD.
 * is well preserved.
 * Theatre baths is another bathhouse just south.

Do
Hike: a walking trail circles the site.

Buy
Apart from the odd postcard from the museum shop, there's nothing you want to buy on site or in Geyre village. You might re-stock on food in Karacasu 10 km west, but the nearest sizable town for supplies and essentials is Nazilli 48 km northwest.

Testiciler Sk ("pottery street") south of town centre in Karacasu is lined by scores of seemingly ancient workshops where various ceramicware is produced and is on sale.

Eat

 * Köfteci Orhan Baba at the village crossroads is a friendly place serving good meatballs, open daily 10:00-21:00.
 * Afrodisias Restaurant across the street has acceptable food but squalid toilets.

Drink
The local water is safe to drink.

Sleep

 * Camping: no campsite, but it's usually permitted around the park entrance, ask the guard.
 * Afrodisias Dandalos Hotel is in an old mansion in the village 3 km west of Elmas Pansiyon,.
 * Afrodisias Dandalos Hotel is in an old mansion in the village 3 km west of Elmas Pansiyon,.
 * Afrodisias Dandalos Hotel is in an old mansion in the village 3 km west of Elmas Pansiyon,.

Connect
As of Oct 2023, Afrodisias and its approach highways have a basic mobile signal from Türk Telekom and Turkcell, but no signal from Vodafone. You should get 4G in Karacasu. 5G has not rolled out in Turkey.

Go next

 * Denizli east across the mountains is the nearest town to Pamukkale, with dazzling travertine pools and the ruins of ancient Hierapolis.
 * Nazilli to the northwest is the nearest sizable town. Nothing to make you linger there.
 * Muğla southwest has a well-preserved old quarter. You come this way for the big beach resorts of Marmaris, Bodrum and Dalaman.
 * Datça the peninsula beyond Marmaris was the birthplace of the first erotic Aphrodite, at Knidos in 364 BC. The original is long lost so you'll have to use your fevered imagination, as many classical authors obviously did.

title: Aphrodisias


text:
Apia

Apia is the capital of Samoa. It is on the northern coast of the island of Upolu and has a population of 42,000 (2021). As with most Pacific Island capitals, Apia is a little shabby and run down. Reasonably small in size and with few obvious attractions, Apia is very useful as a stop-off point for first-time visitors to get their bearings, plan travel around the island of Upolu, organise accommodation on the beach, and recover from jet lag. Most of Samoa's highlights are outside the town, although many are within a very short drive.

Understand
Apia was founded in the 1850s, and has been the capital of Samoa since 1959.

The harbour was the site of an infamous naval standoff in 1889 when seven ships from Germany, the US, and Britain refused to leave the harbour as a typhoon was approaching, for fear of losing face. All the ships were sunk, except for one British cruiser. Nearly 200 American and German lives were lost. Eventually, New Zealand occupied the area after World War I. During the struggle for independence organised by the Mau movement, a peaceful gathering in the town resulted in the killing of the paramount chief Tupua Tamasese Lealofi III and ten others by New Zealand police on 28 December 1929. The country attained independence in 1962.

Climate
Located 13 degrees south of the Equator, Apia's climate is tropical with constant temperatures around the year. The amount of precipitation varies throughout the year; from December to March over 300 mm of rain per month can be expected while it's a bit dryer during the southern hemisphere winter.

Tourist information

By boat
Occasional cargo ships dock at Apia port on their way around the world. A twice-monthly ferry sails to Tokelau. Yachties can berth in Apia Harbour, where there are good facilities.

By car
The aptly named Cross Island Road connects the southern villages on the island of Upolu with Apia.

Get around
Much of Apia is within walking distance, although this could be an uncomfortable experience on a hot and humid Samoan Day. Another thing to consider is the number of aggressive stray dogs towards dusk and in the evening. A walk from the suburbs into the centre is best avoided at night for this reason.

Taxis are cheap, safe and easy to hail down but single women are advised to sit in the back seat, particularly if wearing a short skirt. Ridesharing services including Uber and Lyft have become common means of transport in Apia too.

Buses fan out to the whole of Upolu from Apia. If you are staying at a hotel outside the centre of the town it may be possible to get there by bus. Ask at your hotel.

Do

 * A walk along the sea wall is enjoyable. But only on a milder day (i.e. ). Many locals walk along the sea wall in the early mornings and late afternoon.
 * Fishing. Samoa is a popular fishing destination and most of the charter companies operate out of Apia. The Samoan International Game Fishing Association is based near the port and can provide information about boat companies. Every year it runs an International tournament, attracting anglers from all over the world. Fish in the local waters include blue and black marlin, sailfish, yellowfin, and the giant trevally. Charter companies include:
 * Fishing. Samoa is a popular fishing destination and most of the charter companies operate out of Apia. The Samoan International Game Fishing Association is based near the port and can provide information about boat companies. Every year it runs an International tournament, attracting anglers from all over the world. Fish in the local waters include blue and black marlin, sailfish, yellowfin, and the giant trevally. Charter companies include:

 * Troppo Fishing Adventures

 * Golf. Two courses are close to Apia: the Royal Samoan Country Club near Fagalii Airport and the Faleata Golf Club, which is close to the sports complex constructed for the South Pacific Games.

Buy
Markets in Apia host many interesting stalls and locally made souvenirs. Many of the items on sale, such as cloth in Samoan patterns, are imported from China.

Eat

There are numerous restaurants that cater for locals on a budget and will sell the sort of food that is eaten in the average household. Beer and soft drinks are available at most places. The menu is likely to include chop suey, chicken curry, and mutton flaps. Umu or earth oven cooked local food include roast pig, and the great delicacy, palusami. Palusami is made of an onion and coconut cream filling with a meat (usually corned beef, chicken or fish), all wrapped up in new taro leaves and baked. This is a "must try" and goes well with taro.

Restaurants tend to close early by Western standards. With a few exceptions, the restaurants in the big hotels are the only ones open on Sunday. There are no street numbers in Apia so you will have to ask for directions if you do not take a taxi. The town is divided into lots of smaller villages and the restaurant location is given by village, road (e.g. Beach Road, which is a couple of miles long), or the building, which is not of much use to foreigners.

Budget

 * At the Flea Market and at Marketi Fou there are lots of food stalls selling local food, mostly fried stuff. "The Samoan pancakes" (small fried banana dough balls) are delicious and cost 10 sene each.
 * At the Flea Market and at Marketi Fou there are lots of food stalls selling local food, mostly fried stuff. "The Samoan pancakes" (small fried banana dough balls) are delicious and cost 10 sene each.
 * At the Flea Market and at Marketi Fou there are lots of food stalls selling local food, mostly fried stuff. "The Samoan pancakes" (small fried banana dough balls) are delicious and cost 10 sene each.
 * At the Flea Market and at Marketi Fou there are lots of food stalls selling local food, mostly fried stuff. "The Samoan pancakes" (small fried banana dough balls) are delicious and cost 10 sene each.
 * At the Flea Market and at Marketi Fou there are lots of food stalls selling local food, mostly fried stuff. "The Samoan pancakes" (small fried banana dough balls) are delicious and cost 10 sene each.
 * At the Flea Market and at Marketi Fou there are lots of food stalls selling local food, mostly fried stuff. "The Samoan pancakes" (small fried banana dough balls) are delicious and cost 10 sene each.

Splurge

 * If you are wandering around town and absolutely stuck for a place to eat, the most westerly and remote McDonald's in the world can be found in central Apia.
 * If you are wandering around town and absolutely stuck for a place to eat, the most westerly and remote McDonald's in the world can be found in central Apia.
 * If you are wandering around town and absolutely stuck for a place to eat, the most westerly and remote McDonald's in the world can be found in central Apia.
 * If you are wandering around town and absolutely stuck for a place to eat, the most westerly and remote McDonald's in the world can be found in central Apia.
 * If you are wandering around town and absolutely stuck for a place to eat, the most westerly and remote McDonald's in the world can be found in central Apia.

Drink
Alcohol can be bought at almost all restaurants. Soft drinks and bottled water are generally available and safe. While the purity of the tap water is questionable, all factory-bought ice is safe. It is only later handling that can contaminate it.
 * Kava at the market. (see Samoa)
 * There is a mall (meaning a pedestrian street) in the centre of town with coffee shops, that are great place to sit and watch people passing by.

Bars
At the end of 2010 the Apia bar scene had been thrown into some confusion by the puritanical tendencies of the Prime Minister, who was trying to get them closed by 22:00. Given the confusion opening hours are not specified here. You should check when you arrive. All bars are closed on Sundays.

There is a string of bars in the centre of town between the fire station and the Australian High Commission. This is a good area to visit in the late afternoon and early evening but is best left before closing time when things can get a bit troublesome.

LGBT
There is no "gay scene" nor gay community. In common with much of Polynesia, there is widespread acceptance of homosexuality in Samoa. This acceptance of fa'afafine (the way of a woman) owes much to the tradition of raising some boys as girls. In families with all male children, parents would often choose one or more of the boys to help the mother. Because they would perform the work of women, they were raised as if they were girls. Although their sex was widely known, they would usually be dressed as girls. Many however, would eventually get married to women. Modern fa'afafine are more likely to choose to live as women, and more likely to be homosexual. Boys who appear effeminate may be recognised as fa'afafine by their parents. They will neither be encouraged nor discouraged. Fa'afafine tend to hang out together and bars popular with them tend to change over time.

Gays who are self-aware enough to realize they are gay, and not fa'afafine, may socialise in fa'afafine circles, and thus be more readily recognised as gay. There is an annual fa'afafine pageant.

The welcoming Samoan culture combined with a desire to shine favour from visitors, who are presumed to be very wealthy by comparison, can lead to confusing signals from friendly men.

Lesbianism is much less accepted. While there are lesbians, there is no lesbian scene and nowhere to easily meet Samoan lesbians.

Stay safe
Samoa is generally very safe. Locals who strike up a conversation are unlikely to have sinister motives, however you will often be asked for money.

Free roaming dogs can be a safety problem in the capital Apia. The Government of Samoa (GoS) passed the Canine Control Act in 2013 as an initial step toward addressing dog management. Most dogs ignore you and don't see you as a threat if you ignore them.

Nearly all of Samoa's nightlife is in Apia, and so, like anywhere in the world around closing time, it can get a bit rowdy. Samoans are, on the whole, extremely friendly and despite their size, remarkably relaxed and gentle people. This does not mean you should let your guard down. Alcohol related violence is a major problem in Samoa.

The concept on ownership in Polynesia is different. Locals believe in sharing everything, and this does mean that items can be swiped. Do not leave anything of value lying around.

Embassies and High Commissions
Only Australia, China, Japan and New Zealand have full diplomatic representation in Apia. The U.S. is represented by the Ambassador in New Zealand but maintains an Embassy in Apia. Britain and some other countries have Deputy High Commissions.

 * 🇦🇺 Australia
 * 🇨🇳 China
 * 🇯🇵 Japan
 * 🇳🇿 New Zealand
 * 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
 * 🇺🇸 United States

Go next
Take a local bus, tour or car out and around the island of Upolu. Take the ferry to Savaii and spend a week or two staying in beach fales around the island. Pop across to American Samoa and visit Pago Pago, the inspiration for Somerset Maugham's play "Rain".

title: Apia


text:
Apo Island

Apo Island is in the province of Negros Oriental, in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, about 30 km (20 miles) south of the provincial capital of Dumaguete. Administratively, the island is a barangay of the town of Dauin; population is about a thousand.

Apo Island is well-known as one of the country's many fine diving destinations; one divers' magazine included it on a list of the top hundred destinations worldwide. Part of the area around it is a marine reserve under the jurisdiction of the national Protected Area Management Board (PAMB).

Get in
It is common to use Dumaguete as a stop-over en route to the island. Any travel agent or dive shop in Dumaguete can arrange transport; most offer both day trips and transport for longer stays. See the Dumaguete article for details.

Nearby towns also have resorts that offer day trips to the island. Zamboanguita has Thalatta Beach Dive Resort and Wellbeach Dive Resort, while Dauin has Liquid Dive Resort; see the articles for those towns.

From the Malatapay barangay of Zamboanguita to Apo Island a two-way boat rental is: Solo travelers may also join other boats for. It doesn't matter if you stay in the island for a day or a week; the rates are the same.
 * - small boat max 5 passengers
 * - big boat max 10 passengers

You must arrange for transport from one of the local boats to come and retrieve you for a fee. It is a several mile trip in an outrigger canoe with outboard motor over open water, swells can be large and you can expect to be sprayed with saltwater throughout the trip (wear sunglasses). The boats will generally meet you at Zamboanguita where the Malatapay Wednesday market is held. Take a jeepney from Dumaguete, just ask the driver or conductor to warn you when it is your stop.

Get around
The island is only 3 km around and 120 m high at the top of the hill; walking will get you anywhere you need to go.

See
One of the Philippines' famous diving sites, Apo Island has one of the world's best known community-organised marine sanctuaries. It's home to over 650 documented species of fish and estimated to have over 400 species of corals. There are also many sea turtles.

Do
Diving and snorkeling are the main activities around the island. Resorts on and off the island typically hold diving programs for different skill levels. Instructors are commonly PADI-certified. The diving is excellent, plenty of reefs, tons of fish and turtles, and amazing visibility. Keep an eye out for the Giant Trevally (largest of the jackfish family) which is known in these waters.

There are two dive shops in Apo Island:
 * Apo Island resort - USD25 inclusive of complete gear, boat and divemaster; USD20 exclusive of gear, inclusive of tank & weights, boat and divemaster. Less USD2 for shore dives.
 * Paul's diveshop - for one dive,  for 2 dives exclusive of gear. For complete gear, add  per dive.

Conservation tax of is charged if diving within the sanctuary and  if diving outside of the sanctuary. These rates are as of June 2009.

Buy
There isn't much in the way of retail on Apo Island. It's advisable to bring anything that you may need with you because it is a long trip back to Dumaguete. The local women will try to sell you t-shirts and sarongs when you arrive and when you leave.

Both resorts have Apo Island t-shirts and hats which are little more than the words Apo Island and the symbol for divers.

Eat
Both hotels have restaurants; Liberty's has particularly good chocolate/banana shakes. Menus are limited, but what is available is pretty good. At Liberty's, the dive master will go table to table during dinner and help you arrange the next day's dives.

Sleep
Several beach resorts at nearby towns offer trips to the island; see above.

There are two publicised resorts on the island, Liberty Community lodge and Apo Island Beach Resort.

Go next
Dumaguete is the main transport hub of the region; most travellers will reach Apo from there and return there after the island trip.

It is also possible to spend time on the coast near Apo (in Zamboanguita or Dauin) or to continue south (away from Dumaguete) after visiting the island, but these are much less common choices. The highway south follows the coast all the way to Bacolod; resort areas along it include Siaton and Sipalay.

title: Apo Island