WATER SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES

Tuesday, 24 January 2012 12:29

Australia is enclosed by water and glorious beaches. Most Australians are water babies and take pleasure in participating in an array of water sports.

While simply going for a swim is a regular favourite, Australia offers unrivaled opportunities for surfing, jet skiing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting.Some of the popular water activities in Australia are:

• Surfing- Australia offers the perfect coastline for a surfing. Some of the world’s talented surfers hail from down under. You can get guided surf trips and training; there are plenty of ways to get the hang of surfing. Beginners should look for sandy beaches, where waves break on sand bars rather than on sharp reefs. A two hour lesson should be enough to get you upright on a long board, though practice is required to ride the more maneuverable short board.

• Windsurfing - Windsurfing has become popular in a big way in Australia.Ideal conditions are lakes and rivers, but the surf also provides plenty of action and excitement when the waves are cresting.The boards are bigger than conventional surfboards, but once you get the hang of it, you can go ‘flying’ through the air and zoom through the water.

• Scuba Diving- Diving in Australia is an incredible adventure not to be missed by any explorer.The clear waters and the abundant incredible sea creatures are awe-inspiring. For beginners, most dive operators offer introductory dives with a trained guide. For those who want to take it to the next level, the most common certification course is with an instructor from the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). The cheapest courses can be found at Hervey Bay, Bundaberg, and Magnetic Island; however courses are generally inexpensive in less-visitors areas.

• Sailing, Boating, Yachting- Many Aussies own one of the large variety of water crafts such as a catamaran, motor cruiser or a ‘tinnie’ and they love to take to the waves. The coastline reaches all the states and there are also long river systems and many lakes to enjoy. Besides that you can explore the many beautiful bays and inlets.

• Water skiing- Rivers and lakes are great for the popular sport of water skiing as well as the calmer of the coastal waters. You can glide for hours in the fresh air. In addition there are a number of ski parks and purpose built lakes where you can enjoy the sport.

• Jet Skiing – For some safe and pure adrenaline you can hire jet skis and go zooming through the water and make your own waves.

• Snorkeling-If you are not a diving lover, there are many reefs around Australia with delightful corals and other underwater life for an excellent snorkeling experience.It’s a world of its own, a totally different experience.Australia is home to the largest reef in the world, The Great Barrier Reef. Just be sure to stay close to shore or reserve enough energy to get yourself back safely. Also, protect yourself, maintain a safe distance from all sea creatures and try not to make any sudden moves to startle the ocean inhabitants.

• Kayaking- Sea-kayaking is an increasingly popular activity in Australia, perhaps because it involves stable boats and calmer waters than its river equivalent. Sea-kayakers have the freedom to explore remote coastal areas that are often inaccessible by car or foot. But, before starting, find out the current weather and forecasted changes, just to remain on safe side.

• Rafting–White-water rafting is a thrilling water sport that uses an inflatable rubber raft steered with paddles. Rafting is for the stronger and physically fit folks, and in addition you need to observe caution and follow safety guidelines to minimize risks. If you are beginner, then be sure to pay attention to your guide, learn and understand commands.

• Parasailing – For those who love heights and water, parasailing is an exhilarating activity. It’s a pleasure for viewers on the ground too! Soar above the emerald waters and take in the panoramic sights. You may spot beautiful tropical birds, dolphins and whales!

References:

http://www.waterside.com.au/

http://www.australiatourism.travel/region/australia/attractions-and-activities/surfing-and-water-sports/

http://www.letsgo.com/2745-asia_and_pacific-travel-guides-australia-outdoor_recreation-water_activities-c

SAFE SUMMER FOR FAMILY AND KIDS

Tuesday, 10 January 2012 16:27

The Australian summer is simply gorgeous. You can have a smashing time as there’s lots to do and see all around Oz. The summer months of December, January and February are packed full of tourists trying to get the most of the holiday season and avoiding the winter of the Northern Hemisphere.Safety comes first and it’s a good idea to take precautions when trying out new activities or visiting unfamiliar places. To ensure safety while you are out frolicking and having a great time, do remember the following tips:

• Use sun protection – Stay protected from the sun. Use plenty of sunscreen of at least SPF 30 when out. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and long, loose fitting clothes to stay cool and to avoid heat exhaustion and dehydration.

• Stay hydrated – Always be ready to quench your thirst by bringing your water bottle along whenever you go out.

• Be Aware of the tropical wet season –The summer months in Australia bring the wet season to the tropical north and there is chance of cyclones hitting the shores in areas such as Cairns and Townsville. But that doesn’t make it a no-go area; just be aware there is the chance of the weather being less than its best if you do.

• Keep warm clothes –Take warm clothing with you because even in hot areas, it sometimes gets cold at night.

• Watch out for poisonous and biting animals – Keep your eyes open for jelly fish, crocodiles, spiders, snakes and sharks. Australia is home to some of the deadliest creatures on land and at sea. If you encounter any creatures, leave them alone and they will probably do the same.

• Read and obey signs and follow any guidance provided – not all beaches and outback areas are the same.

• In the bush – Stay on known trails and do not wander off. Be ready for rain and look out for snakes and other animals. Be aware of bush fires and check the weather forecast for fire danger days.

• Water fun – Always walk into a body of water to find out its depth. Never dive first. Swim between the red and yellow flags as lifeguards are positioned in those areas to protect you.

• Precautions for kids –Teach your kids to always read and obey the beach signs and to swim between the red and yellow flags. Always supervise kids when they’re swimming. On beaches there could be strong undercurrents and in water holes you often find branches that could entangle people and sharp rocks.

• Safety measures for seniors – Older people are more prone to heat stress because their body may not adjust to sudden temperature changes as efficiently as at youth. They are also more likely to have a chronic medical condition and to be taking medication that may interfere with the body’s ability to regulate fluid.The Minister for Aging, Justine Elliot, said: “The elderly are particularly vulnerable when temperatures climb into the high 30s and beyond.”

References:

http://www.rch.org.au/emplibrary/safetycentre/Holiday_safety.pdf

http://www.burdekintourism.com.au/documents/-tourismsafetytips_000.pdf

http://www.lostgirlsworld.com/2010/12/6-travel-tips-for-australia-in-the-summer/

http://www.holidayswithkids.com.au/travel_tips___info/summer_safety

WHAT EMPLOYERS SUBCONSCIOUSLY DO

Wednesday, 28 December 2011 16:12

In the past, we have affirmed that taking short breaks is important to stay productive and reduce several health issues.But different surveys prove that, for an employee, it is very hard to take time off from work and there are several reasons behind it including:

• Employees often find their holiday dates refused. Sometimes they cannot get the same time off as their partner.
• They do not want to put extra pressure on their colleagues.

Another reason that is not always easily recognised is this:

• A study has found that EMPLOYERS subconsciously discourage workers from taking holidays even though they say they want them to use their annual leave.

This is how it goes… Many employees have a lot of workload pressure. This is more pronounced for managers and supervisors who are stressed out managing projects and teams and meeting deadlines. This sets the tone for their subordinates who too feel obliged to work, work, WORK. As much as the employers sincerely want the staff to take a break, de-stress and re-energise, they cannot allow themselves to push all that work away and just enjoy some time off. Subordinates don’t get the message when the boss asks them to take a leave, though he doesn’t ever do so himself. His actions speak clearer than words.

It then follows that by taking time off, managers and leaders can set an example for others. They also need to deliberately encourage employees to take holidays. Assignments and projects need to be planned in a way to allow breaks to employees, on a rotating basis or otherwise. This will greatly improve the work-life balance and result in more motivated employees.

Holidays need to be built into the tasks and systems.It needs to be considered in succession planning by the organisation so that leaves taken by employees at all levels, right from the lowest to the senior positions in the company, do not affect productivity. Technology can be used to design such outcomes.It’s important to build breaks or similar flexibility into the projects andassignments, rather than keeping vacations as an afterthought to work.

Employers really do want workers to be motivated and at their best. They do therefore request them to take time off to rejuvenate. Foremost though, senior managers need to brush some of the dust off all that stockpiled leave and take a holiday, so that they too are at their best and their staff can see and believe it.

http://www.news.com.au/business/worklife/bosses-discourage-staff-from-taking-holidays-tns-survey-suggests/story-e6frfm9r-1225841605744

http://www.unisa.edu.au/hawkeinstitute/cwl/documents/AWALI2010-exec-summary.pdf

HOLIDAY FOR BETTER HEALTH

Thursday, 15 December 2011 17:51

Taking a break from work and going on a holiday has been found to have a profound effect on our body. Health management holidays are more highly desired than ever before. For many it is now a preferred method to improve physical and mental health. It’s a great way to escape the pressure and stress of modern life and to give your own well-being some conscious effort. There’s an enormous variety in health management holidays that cater to the many types of health concerns. You can have a health package that’s highly focused on one particular issue such as skin health or fitness training. You can also choose a package that offers broad-spectrum improved well-being including healthy cuisine and relaxation for the body and mind.

Health problems are on the rise and so are the types of specialized holidays that cater to those problems.The many types of health holidays include:

• Weight loss holiday

• Fitness and strength-training holiday

• Stress management

• Spa treatment break

• Skin health holiday

• Breathing holiday leading to a stronger immune system

• Detoxification holiday

• Injury recovery break

• Insomnia curing retreat

• Age-reversing holiday that promise you will look and feel younger

There can be multiple options for achieving a certain target. For instance if you are aiming weight-loss, you can choose activities like hiking, playing tennis or learning martial arts. You can take sessions with a personal trainer.If you wish to recover from an injury, you can arrange various therapies such as spa, massage physiotherapy and other relaxation techniques. How long you stay depend on your purpose and personal preference. Some goals such as weight loss need at least a week to have significant effect. Others such as stress reduction can be achieved in two or three days, and you can plan a longer, more thorough treatment for a few weeks or as long as you like!

Health holidays will usually promote an overall healthier way of life including nutritious diet, regular exercise and stress management. After the holiday you've learnt enough to get you going on the track of a healthier lifestyle. Whatever your goals are, a wellness retreat will certainly make you feel - and look - rejuvenated and re-energized.So, for a better way of life, take a break. Start packing and book your next holiday break!

http://www.positivehealth.com/article/retreats-and-travel/holidays-for-relaxation-and-improved-wellbeing