SURFS UP! Miami

Ok, maybe we don't have killer waves like Hawaii, but you can have fun and feel like a surfer in Miami. Paddle Boarding is the new water sport in town! Paddle boarding actually has been around in ancient Hawaii, however started becoming a popular sport by the 20th century. Enough of HIStory and on to the FUNStory.

Basically you are propelling yourself with a surf board or a paddle board and a paddle. Surf Boards can be used but ideally a paddle board is used specifically for this sport. Paddle boards are much wider and longer. Paddle boarding gets you up close to nature, in fact the CLOSEST you can to the water! I've come across wildlife like manatees, dolphins, tarpons and other sea animals; it's also a great workout too!

Recently, my friend and captain Carlos Macias took me for a paddle and ever since then I've become a paddle fan! Below are some of my pics and videos. Carlos Macias is an experienced paddler competing around the world, he also is President of SUPAmericas. He has his own boards, lifevests and more and offers tours and trips all over South Florida. Carlos will teach you everything you need to know, I was afraid to get up on the board but I did it, you'll get the hang of it too! Please visit his site below for more info, reservations. etc.

http://supamericas.com/
Carlos Macias
Ph: 305.785.6834
carlos@supamericas.com

"Captain" Carlos Macias



Video
* Note *: I realized later I didn't need the ugly life jacket that I borrowed from a nearby boat. Please note however, that Carlos has many nicer lifevests if you need :).

Get High: Parasailing Miami

Want to get naturally High?

Try PARASAILING in Miami with Aqua World at Bayfront Park. Think it's not for you? Don't get me wrong, I did have some fear, it is normal to have this feeling when you have never experienced this before!

Meet Captain Scott and his friendly crew at Aqua World Miami. They are US Coast Guard certified and friendly team. This is THE ULTIMATE ride to experience Miami at its FULLEST. Scott and his crew will instruct you on safety procedures, no previous experience needed, all sizes and ages accepted! They can even take your pics and videos for a great price.

I personally work on a tour cruise boat, so I can see how parasailing is one of a kind adventure. You get to see Miami from a one of a kind view, literally! I can't describe in words or even through my videos or pictures the feelings felt at such a height viewing the whole city, islands and ocean. This has been a great accomplishment in my list of adventures and am definitely looking forward for my next ride!

Below is more information on Aqua World and pictures as well. Stay tuned: MORE WATER SPORTS @ AquaWorld: JetSkis and more! Thank you to all the friendly staff at Aqua World Miami.

- DJ Zelda

http://www.aquaworldmiami.com/
301 N.Bayfront Park, Miami, Fl 33132 (Next to Bayside)
7 Days a week, from 10 AM to Sunset, every hour.

Miami Earth Week

EARTH DAY celebrates it's 40th year anniversary today April 22, 2010. There are several events going on this week to bring awareness about our planet Earth. Some attractions celebrating this week include Jungle Island and Metro Zoo who offer FREE admission in exchange for bringing a used cell phone for recycling ( on April 24 and 25 from 11 am to 4 pm).

MIAMI GOIN' GREEN FESTIVAL will take place this Saturday, April 24, from 10 am to 7 pm. This is a FREE event, educational but fun for the whole family. Live Music, Workshops, Yoga, Electronic Recycling Center, Fashion station where you can swap clothes for free, MiaSci Lab from Miami Science Museum and Free Bike Valet by US Gas & Electric. Check out below for festival site.

FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN will offer FREE ADMISSION from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm today, Thursday. Free giveaways of native plants, film showing, free tours throughout the day.

Sites:
http://www.miamigoingreen.com/
http://gomiami.about.com/od/eventsfestivals/p/EarthDay.htm
http://www.fairchildgarden.org/Events/?date=04-2010&eventID=452

Question for you:
What are you doing to go green?

Today I'm planting a native tree, Gumbo Limbo is it's common name. Scientifically known as Bursera simaruba, it is a outstanding tree in the Hardwood Hammock ecosystem that only exists in the South East portion of the United States. It is very hurricane resistant, easy to grow even if it is broken. It provides an important food source for birds and is a lovely addition to any backyard! Will post pics soon.