South Africa – The Land of Diversity.
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Tuesday, August 5, 2008 |
If traveling is your relaxation mantra, do plan a visit to South Africa which is located on the southern tip of Africa. Possessing a coast that borders the Atlantic as well as the Indian oceans, South Africa can clearly be defined as an exhilarating and complex country.    The climate in South Africa is kind with many places offering an opportunity to experience the wildlife here. The constitution in South Africa recognizes eleven official languages with English as the most common for commercial and public use. Unlike in the past, today South Africa certainly has an abundance of energy and progress.Labels: Africa |
posted by Laketrade @ 4:20 AM  |
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Feel at one with nature at the Tongariro National Park.
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 This national park located in North Island, New Zealand, holds the World Heritage status because of its cultural and natural significance. Home to three volcanoes, Mt. Tongariro, Mt. Ngauruhoe and Mt. Ruapehu, Tongariro is an excellent place for a long walk through volcanic landscape, hot springs and mud pools. The Tongariro National Park is always busy, especially in the summer when people flock to this place in order to take the one day hike. Even in winter when the weather is not as favorable, people come to this national park as it is a popular ski and snowboard destination.  |
| posted by Laketrade @ 4:09 AM |
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Know Your Knots.
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How much do you know about making knots, the skill that gets you out of sticky situations? Don’t worry if you don’t know much because here is some information about a few of them.
The Double Fisherman’s Knot: Also known as the “Grapevine,” this is a useful knot that is used to create slings or join ropes which are of different diameter.   Bachmann Knot: This knot comes in use if you are planning to ascend a rope. This is done by attaching a carabiner to the rope and using it as a sling.  Water Knot: The water knot or ring bend knot is used in order to make a webbing sling.  |
| posted by Laketrade @ 3:59 AM |
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Quotes about Nature to Brighten Up Your Day.
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Whenever you sit by the banks of the river and look into the flowing water do n’t you wish you could describe it using words that could do justice to the beauty around you? Well, here are some quotes that describe the beauty of nature in well selected words. There is a pleasure in the pathless woods; There is a rapture on the lonely shore; There is society, where none intrudes, By the deep sea, and music in its roar; I love not man the less, but Nature more -Lord Byron In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous  -Aristotle Human subtlety will never devise an invention more beautiful, more simple or more direct than does Nature, because in her inventions, nothing is lacking and nothing is superfluous. -Leonardo da Vinci |
| posted by Laketrade @ 3:51 AM |
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Bushcraft for Youngsters.
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Youngsters are fast learners and absorb whatever they are taught with great interest, thus it is no surprise that there are Bushcraft courses that have been created keeping them in mind. The courseS offered for youngsters have a high student: staff ratio and includes the teaching of skills such as: · Lighting a fire · Constructions of shelters
· Purification and collection of water
· Animal tracking  · Safety
· Use of cutting tools
Of course do enquire about the skills offered before enrolling your child in the course. This is because a few of the skills differ from one organization to another. |
| posted by Laketrade @ 3:45 AM |
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African Style Bushcraft.
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While in Africa, make it a point to visit the Mountain of the Mamba which is located in the Private Big 5 Reserve ENTABENI.  Situated in the Waterberg Biosphere in the region of Waterberg this reserve has a lot to offer in terms of the beauty of the unspoilt wilderness along with plenty of herds of zebra as well as other animals.  Apart from this, the bush safari experience also offers opportunities for learning. For e.g. you can learn about maps and navigation, survival strategies and equipment as well as identifying game tracks, bushes, plants and birds.Labels: other animals. |
| posted by Laketrade @ 3:42 AM |
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Axe – A necessary tool in the wild.
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 Out of the many things you need in the outdoors, an axe is certainly a must-have since it can be used as a hammer, a wedge as well as a cutting edge. While choosing an axe consider its purpose, your build, your rucksack-weight and your budget. If you are going hiking or camping, a Mini-hatchet or Wildlife Hatchet would be ideal since it is light and convenient to use. If you like you can also buy a Small Forest axe instead of the two mentioned above for use outdoors. |
| posted by Laketrade @ 3:39 AM |
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Use Friction to Create a Spark .
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 As we know fire by friction is a process that has been used for a long time now. Using this process the fuel heats up till it reaches the temperature when it is combustible and then ignites! Some of the methods used for the purpose are:
· The Fire Plow
· The Fire Saw
· The Hands Drill
· The Bow Drill
Each of the methods use one piece of hardwood with another that is a slightly softer wood. Of course it is vital to remember that success is dependent on practice, the materials used, troubleshooting and strength entirely. I certainly hope you have great luck lighting the fire! |
| posted by Laketrade @ 3:37 AM |
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Touch Wood!
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The basis of wood carving is finding the right kind of wood, which is sometimes a  matter of concern. Below are some steps which will help you find the right wood for your carving needs.
· Soft wood like bass, balsa and cork are ideal for fine detail and accenting. Soft woods do not hold stains well and are thus best for painting.
· Hard woods like cherry, oak or maple are durable and are ideal for large works of art and different types of furniture. This kind of wood is good for glossy finishes and stains.
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| posted by Laketrade @ 3:34 AM |
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Follow the Mule Trail.
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Previously a rough mule trail, the Sani Pass in South Africa is today a beautiful mountain road that is worth a visit. Being the gateway to the “Roof of Africa”, the Sani Pass links the prominent scenery of the Drakensberg to the mountains of the northern Lesotho. The only border between Lesotho and Kwazulu-Natal, the Sani Pass is a place that can have four seasons in a single day. It is advisable to keep this in mind before you embark on your journey on this scenic route. After all I am sure you wouldn’t like to be caught unawares!  |
| posted by Laketrade @ 3:31 AM |
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Methods to find and purify the elixir of life in the outdoors.
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 While in the outdoors always treat all water as if it is contaminated. To resolve this problem, boil water before using. This is done as most organisms are unable to survive up to 1 to 2 minutes of boiling. If you are unable to find water, look for animal trails and follow it. Also look for birds as they often circle a watering hole. Insects and plants are also good indicators of water sources. If that isn’t working, dig holes in the ground and watch it fill up with rainwater or look for a dry creek as it might have water running under the ground. |
| posted by Laketrade @ 3:29 AM |
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Tips to select a tent, your shelter in the outdoors
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 Tents come in all sizes and shapes nowadays confusing the consumer as well as presenting him/her with various options which help make life in the outdoors comfortable and safe.  When buying a tent it is important to find one that suits the season in which you plan to use it. This is when season tents come into the picture! Once you have decided that, take into consideration the capacity of the tent. The best idea would be to buy one that is meant for more people than the group size, this way you will have ample space for your backpack and other equipment too. |
| posted by Laketrade @ 3:26 AM |
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How to use cutting tools to get a slice of life.
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 If you are venturing into the outdoors, remember not to leave without your cutting tools, especially the knife. Knives are available in many different kinds ranging from sheath knives to folding ones. Of course do ensure that the blade has a flat level as this facilitates easy sharpening. Do also remember not to select a knife that has a finger guard as it prevents the user from strangling the knife blade in order to perform delicate tasks. Last but not the least, remember to keep your knife clean and sharpen it regularly. |
| posted by Laketrade @ 3:24 AM |
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The First Aid Kit – It’s truly a life saver!
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I am sure all of you have experienced the use of this kit at some stage or another. Compact and useful, always remember to carry the first aid kit while going outdoors! While putting together a first aid kit remember to pack things like painkillers, allergy medicines, nail clippers, band-aids,  tape and gauze, bandage scissors, tweezers, iodine, prescription drugs, alcohol swabs, vitamins, insect repellent and sunburn and sunblock lotion. You can pack most of the things in small, reusable bottles and label them using a ball point pen and masking tape. Once that is done, pack the items in freezer bags and then transfer them into the kit. |
| posted by Laketrade @ 3:23 AM |
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Cheat the weather with the appropriate clothes.
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With the amount of research being done on materials, it comes as no surprise that the clothing today is much lighter compared to what it was several years ago! Not only that, the synthetic shirts, pants and other clothes are so made that they can be worn for many days and even dry fast enough.  While packing clothes for an outdoor trip, take clothes that work separately and layer together. This will help you prepare for any changes in weather! On dry, warm trips carry more than a single set of clothing while on wet and cold ones don’t forget the second base layer. |
| posted by Laketrade @ 3:21 AM |
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Are you following the road that leads to nowhere?
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 If you are lost in the outdoors, do not worry, just take a deep breath and follow these steps:
· Look around your surroundings and landmarks and match that to the map.
· Try and remain calm. If possible try and figure out how you arrived at the present location.
· Use your map and compass. If you are following a trail, remember not to leave it!
· Avoid walking around once nightfall sets in, or if you are tired or injured.
· If you are still unable to find your way, follow a stream or a drainage system downhill. This may be difficult, but will often bring you to a road or a trail. |
| posted by Laketrade @ 3:18 AM |
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Methods to stay safe and sound.
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In the outdoors it is important to keep yourself well protected from animals and bugs. Here are a few tips that will help you do just that:
 · Wear light colored clothing as dark colors attract insects
· Restrict the use of colognes and perfumes
· If an insect comes close to you, avoid waving wildly and swatting blindly
instead push it away gently using brushing motion.
· To ward off bears and other animals, always keep the campsite clean
· Avoid leaving garbage, food, cooking equipment and utensils in the open
· Keep a flashlight handy at it may helps warn animals away at night |
| posted by Laketrade @ 3:15 AM |
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A Hammock – An excellent way to rock yourself to sleep.
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 Do you want to feel closer to nature? If yes, use a hammock! Hammocks are easy to carry and take less time to set up. Hammocks also make life in the outdoors much simpler because it can be set up anywhere irrespective of the terrain. With a hammock, comfort is also not a concern as there are no pressure points, unlike a regular bed. The gentle soothing movement also adds to its charm! With the wide range of choices available today you are sure to find a hammock that suits your requirement and provides you with value for money and plenty of comfort. |
| posted by Laketrade @ 3:13 AM |
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Learning of skills in the wilderness.
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A term used for wilderness skills in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, Bushcraft is all about survival and flourishing in the natural environment. It is also the acquisition of skills as well as knowledge to do the same. The skills under this category include – tracking, shelter building, firecraft, hunting as well  as the usage of tools like axes and knives. Apart from this other skills included under this term are hand-carving wood, container construction from materials found in nature, making twine and rope as well as many other skills required for survival in the outdoors. |
| posted by Laketrade @ 3:08 AM |
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THE FIREPLACE:
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Saturday, August 2, 2008 |
THE FIREPLACE: It needs to be prepared carefully. Choose a site that is sheltered, especially during high winds. Do not light a fire at the base of a tree or a stump.  Clear away leaves, twigs, moss and dry grass from a circle at least 2m (6 feet) across & scrape everything away until you have a surface of bare earth.
 If the ground is wet or covered with snow, the fire MUST be built on a platform. Make this from a layer of green logs covered with a layer of earth or a layer of stones.
 If land is swampy or the snow deep a raised platform is needed, known as a temple fire.
Labels: be prepared, raised platform, sheltered, temple fire., THE FIREPLACE |
| posted by Laketrade @ 7:57 AM |
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The Australian High Country.
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Friday, August 1, 2008 |
High Country is renowned for its breathtaking alpine scenery. Enjoy snow-capped hills and high plains in winter and carpets of alpine wildflowers in summer.  The mountains also provide a stunning setting for a huge range of outdoor and adventure activities. In winter when snow covers the high country, people flock to the hills to partake in snow sports and cross country trekking.  In summer wildflowers cover the slopes and high plains in brilliant coloured displays when the warmer weather is ideal for bush walking.
 High Country is home to the Victorian Alps, the spectacular alpine section of Australia's iconic Great Dividing Range. Discover towering winter-snowed mountains, tree-covered ranges, tranquil alpine lakes and rivers and rural farmlands. For more:Labels: bush walking.Victorian Alps, cross country, Great Dividing Range, High Country, outdoor and adventure, provide, wildflowers |
| posted by Laketrade @ 6:48 PM |
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· Bushcraft: An Inspirational Guide to Surviving the Wilderness – Ray Mears 
· Animal Tracks and Signs – Preben Bang 
· Essential Bushcraft – Ray Mears 
· Food For Free – Richard Mabey 
