Isla
Margarita, largely unknown, but brimming with activity. Exploration and adventure,
relaxation and shopping, Margarita has something for everyone.
The ones hungry for action and fun will find a great variety of Shows, Discotheques,
Pool & Bars and Night Clubs with very personalized personalities. There are places
for everyone. From the romantic Piano Bar to the most crazy tropical party for
the young ones in years.
From
terraces under a sky painted with thousands of stars and soft life music to clubs
with spectacular light shows and the hottest music.
There
is someplace for every taste and this guide will help you the find the place you
need to give your vacation the finishing touch. Gamblers will find different options
between Casinos, Bingos and Slot Machines to try their luck. Everything on Margarita
is within reach and transportation options are relatively inexpensive. If you
are not staying at a resort or hotel with shuttle service you will find plenty
of inexpensive taxi services and can also rent a car to explore on your own. Remember,
gasoline is cheap in Venezuela and this is reflected in most transportation costs.
Start with the beaches, numerous and sometimes secluded, the best beaches are
on the east coast of the island.
You
can explore on your own or take one of several tours operated by local companies
with English
speaking guides that dot the island. Among the most popular destinations
is La
Restinga National Park, an elaborate system of canals
through the mangrove forest. You can enjoy a traditional boat ride through the
wide canals. You’ll observe various birds and wildlife in addition to sea life
such as seahorses, starfish and various species of crab. Most boat guides only
speak Spanish, so be prepared to rely on your visual acuity and imagination unless
if you decide to book this tour with Crusin
N Style.
Another
great stop is the Margarita Tropical Gardens and Labyrinth. In the company of
monkeys and other entertaining animal species, you’ll find a maze of tropical
plants with beautiful blooms and unique trees. Then you can wander around a tree
maze with many dead end paths...see who can find their way out first! Enjoy a
sampling of local fruit, have your picture taken with a snake, wrestle with a
bird to keep your hat and you’re on your way again.
It
is the only multi-species labyrinth in the Caribbean. It is an ecological park
where a variety of tropical flora is exhibited, some of it's from Margarita. The
space stretches for 17.000 m2, dedicated to ecological preservation and fun. The
Ficus labyrinth dares the orientation sense. Feel the emotion of finding the lost
path.
The
park is divided in 4 areas. One, with vegetation that grows between sea level
and 400 m over sea level. (Different kind of cactus, spiny bushes and the emblematic
tree of Nueva Esparta, the Guayacan). Many other species are growing in this area.
The Flower Garden, where you will find the most number of species of gardens on
Margarita Island. An area of contact with Mango, native plum, bananas, sugar cane
and guava trees. The third part of the tour is planted with species that normally
grow over 400 m sea level. A microclimate was created with giant bamboos and irrigation
from the air to achieve the humidity required by these species (Bromeliads, orchids,
callas, ferns palm trees and climbing ferns) At the end of this tour there is
shaded zone with a pond where you can watch and touch some of our tropical fauna:
Turtles, Boa Constrictor, Black Spiders, Royal Parrots and a very sympathetic
Capuchino monkey named Pancho.
There
is a complete collection of snakes native to the island and other reptiles as
Iguanas, salamanders, lizards and Babas (small caiman native to the plains). The
visitor is offered typical natural refreshment in each area, like Sugar Cane Juice,
Lemon and raw sugar drink, coconut milk and tropical fruit. El Laberinto Tropical
is located on the road from Los Robles to La Asunción, sector Palosano Open Tuesday
to Sunday from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm . Fee's: 10,000 bs per adult and 5,000 bs per
child.
For the
more adventurous, Margarita also has some great kayaking, scuba diving and windsurfing.
The beach at El Yaque is world renowned for its excellent windsurfing and plays
host to competitions annually. Take a horseback ride along the shore and into
the desert, enjoy a jeep safari through Macanao, a remote area of the island,
or embark on a journey to another place.
You
can find these and quite a variety of imported pearls from Asia at very reasonable
prices. With the influx of cruise passengers has come an extensive market and
local (free) entertainment at the port on ship days. The natives provide traditional
entertainment at the pier named El Guamache where you can browse over 100 local
merchants that come to display their handicrafts. You can also find lots of shopping
in Porlamar with a flea market just outside of town to
satisfy your quest for local crafts. Written by Randy Poisson
While
visiting Margarita Island, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy its unique Water
Park, Parque
El Agua with 45.000 m2 of areas and attractions for adults and
children, security and facilities for the entire family. You will spend a fantastic
day. Designed to be enjoyed by families, you will find extreme attractions for
the brave and relaxing ones for those looking for the tranquility of a special
day. Also for more pictures of Parque
el Agua visit our photo gallery here.
Dive into the fun! The
names of our attractions are in Pemon Language and the translation of it is displayed
at each attraction.
Churun
Meru With 18 m the highest water slide in Venezuela, will give you a jolt of adrenaline.
In Pemon language, it is known as Angel Falls. If you are one of the bravest,
you will experience a free fall into a canal, slowed down by water. Max speed
140 km/h
Tupaika
Meru Enclosed slide, to be used with a float, 15 m high. You can use floats for
1 or 2 person. It is fun. In Pemon language: Caroni Falls, at Kiaboru river, with
a pond and a nice beach. Max. speed 70 km/h
Kukenan
Meru Open Slide, to be used with a float, 15 m high. You can use floats for 1
or 2 persons. A lot of fun. In Pemon Language it is the river that initiates in
Kukena, next to Roraima. On of the main affluences of Caroni River. Max. Speed
70 km/h
Chinik
Meru Open slide, to be used with rubber matts, 12 m high. Be prepared for the
quick falls and turns. In Pemon Language. White decoration of birds, Max. Speed.
70km/h
Pachichi
Meru Enclosed slide, 12 m high, to be used with rubber mattresses. Be prepared
for the quick falls and turns. In Pemon Language: Falls at Caroní, a bit down
river of Urinán. Max. Speed 70 km/h
Tuna
Yepi Giant Jacuzzi for 50 persons. Relax. Ideal for those looking to relax with
the massage of the jets and bubbling water. In Pemon Language: On the shore of
the river. Fit for the entire family.
Tunaima:
Slow river, more than 500 m long. Imagine a river that takes you pleasantly for
a ride through the park, passing waterfalls. The most relaxing experience. In
Pemon Language: The big water. Fit for the entire family.
Mure
Tapui Children's area, resembling a tree house, with interactive attractions for
children: giant water pistols, slides and much more. In Pemon Language: House
of Children. Only for children.
The
park is located on the island of La Isla Margarita. Many sources list the name
of this park as "Instituto Nacional de Hipodromos" ("National Institute of Hippodromes",
a "Hippodrome" is a horse track/arena). This is the name taken from Vekoma's reference
list (who Vekoma sold the ride to) and is not the name of the park.
The name Diverland
is not referring to scuba diving. It is a combination of Spanish and English words
-- "Diver" from the Spanish word "Diversión" and the English word "Land". Basically
their way of saying "Funland".
It
is a wonderful place, with the possibility of interacting with the dolphins. There,
after a brief training on the part of the instructors, the visitors can swim or
dive next to these intelligent animals. This experience is unforgettable because
these beautiful creatures are very playful and allow for people to touch them,
feed and even swim holding onto their fins.
Address:
Av. Jóvito Villalba, park of Diverland diversions. Schedule: Tuesday to Sunday
opens in the afternoon. Telephone: +58 (0295) 416-7830.
The
Kingdom of MUSIPAN
is a Tourist Theme Park based on the descriptions and
personages created by Benjamín Rausseo “El Conde Del
Guacharo” during his almost 20 Years of his artistic
life. This Kingdom, located to only 10 minutes from
the airport, on the road the takes you to El Yaque Beach,
sector Punta Carnero, Isla de Margarita, lies on 220
meters of beach, hamacodromo, 2 toboganes of water,
5 salt water swimming pools with 5 toboganes of water,
4 restaurants, pizzeria, dominódromo, heladería (ice
cream shop) , town for children, parking, monitoring,
cinema, theater, presses, radio and TV and a professional
field for Cochino (Pig) Encebado, the official sports
of the Kingdom.
Within
the attractions that can be enjoyed in the Kingdom, do not forget to visit: El
Ucero Light Bar and first Professional Dominódromo of Latin America and the Caribbean.
Guarachassik Park, an experience of adventures where the prehistoric roots of
Musipán are known. The Four bar Pepas Located in the Island of the Perdición,
this bar, acclimated at the beginning of the decade of the 60, is the ideal site
to drink and to share with the family. The Palace of Government .....it is the
official seat of the Government of the Kingdom, that is used like office by the
Monarch when it is in the country. Guacharock Coffee, The only Restaurant with
the best thing of the Creole kitchen, dedicated to the four Venezuelan and his
interpreters. Planet Guácharo Bar Restaurant where one pays tribute to the cinema
and TV to him of latinoaméricana. Leaders of the global campaign "Save to the
Chivos".
Shopping
Tourswith your own guide- Here you have
the choice of shopping in as many stores as you choose and at your own leisure.
Crusin n Style can recommend places or you may choose your own. They can either
be with you while you're shopping or they can wait for you at a destination place
until you are ready to go. The schedule and itinerary of tours can be adjusted
to suit you needs.
Senor
Frog's does not close til 4 am. Most people get there around 12 am. People
from all over the world hanging out. Great music - some Spanish, but mostly in
English. A great night club to come and visit when here in Margarita Island.
Also
check out
Kamy Beach on Margarita Island. Here
is a link from Trip
Advisor's website for a little info from the night club
owner of Kamy Beach. Check out the actual website for pictures and more info before
going please.
Other
Entertainment spot's in Margarita's located right here in this same plaza pictured
above:
Its
located right next door to Señor Frogs in the picture above on the first
floor.
Beer's Shop sportsbar's website is in Spanish but you can click on the Galeria
button for photos taken inside this sportsbar. Open Wed. - Sat. 11:00 p.m. - 4:00
a.m.
They
do not have their own site at the moment but you can see a link to their photo
albums from the site 5mentarios.com. Click on the Opah link in yellow to open
in a new window. Open Wed. - Sat. 11:00 p.m. - 4:00 a.m.
Further
on the Island:
Mykonos
Lounge and Dine : Located in front of Hotel Flamigo Beach, Pampatar,
Margarita
An
excellent Lounge & Restaurant with Greek style food. At this moment they also
do not have a website. MyKonos is the second rest. in the picture....with the
brown and white letters. Guayoyo Cafe rest. is the first one in this picture also
another great place to eat and visit.
They
play new wave, disco music, merengue, salsa, and reggataeton music. University
nites are on Friday's and they offer a 2 x 1 on Saturday's. La Terraza website
is in Spanish as well but you can click on the Galeria button for photos taken
inside, just choose a month to view.
Boom
Lounge Bar & Restaurant : Centro Commercial Plaza AB
Newly
inaugurated, at this moment they also do not have a website.
Adelita
: Located at the Hotel La Semana, Costa Azul
Also
newly inaugurated, It is a Restaurant Mexican Show. Try their delicious mexican
dishes and enjoy the Mariachis show.
New
! - If you're traveling to Margarita Island, we now offer a Rental Cell
Phone service. Free Drop-off and Pick-Up upon your departure while at Santiago
Mariño International Airport. Please
see here for more info and prices.
recent
article in the Ocala, Fla. Star Banner Newspaper
Rockabilly
rocks Ocala BY ANTHONY VIOLANTI THE STAR-BANNER
Lead
Singer performs with back-up vocalists and dancers during a "Rockabilly US Music
Show" at the Marion Technical Institute on Friday.
ERICA
BROUGH/STAR-BANNER OCALA -
Liberace
meets "Grease."
That
could be a shorthand description of the "Rockabilly US Music Show" that played
at Marion Technical Institute Auditorium on Friday night and returns today at
4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
It's
a campy, over-the-top musical revue that will set every lounge lizard's heart
pounding. This gig features plenty of rhinestones, big-hair, colorful, body-hugging
costumes and lots of '50s and '60s songs. It's an Austin Powers' dream come true.
Doyle
Armstrong acts as the master of ceremonies and lead singer, surrounded by a chorus
of at least a dozen female dancers and a 14-piece live band. Put them all together
and you have a stage populated by an army of singers, dancers, musicians and technicians
determined to bring a little bit of Las Vegas and Branson to Ocala.
"This
is a strange building, we're trying to figure out the sound system," said Armstrong
at the start of the show. He was wearing brown-tinted sunglasses to go with a
satin, red-white-and-blue jumpsuit. "We're all a little confused right now. If
you don't like the show and you leave in the first 30 minutes, we'll give you
your money back."
No
one in the crowd left and Armstrong, then belted out "All My Loving," what he
described as, "a Beatles' song from 1964." As he sang, six female dancers went
through what looked like an aerobics workout behind him.
"These girls get tired and we make them work hard," Armstrong said, while strutting
from side to side of the stage. "We have to give them a little time to catch their
breath."
Things
slowed down a bit as Armstrong, after changing into a gold shirt and black leather
pants, sang "Blue Velvet." After that number, Armstrong asked the audience, "Have
you heard of the Turtles? No, not the turtles in Florida but the Turtles singing
group that had a hit in 1967, 'Happy Together.'
"
The band then started playing the song, but Armstrong missed his cue and ordered
them to stop. "I can't hear because of the sound system," he told the band. "We'll
have to start it over. Don't worry, folks, we'll get this straightened out." And
he did, finishing the song in style.
Things
picked up steam when the energetic female chorus stepped to the front of the stage.
Tammy Ewry, Cheryl Konchan and Jeanine Konchan brought energy and zest to such
numbers as "Soldier Boy," "Dancing in the Street" and "Snowbird." Lauren Ewry,
Tammy's 12-year-old daughter, brought the house down with a cover of Holly Dunn's
"Daddy's Hands." The youngster fit right in wearing a sparkling gold pantsuit
and black cowboy hat.
Armstrong,
after another costume change, returned wearing a black suit with rhinestones down
each side. He turned solemn on "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes" and added another heart-tugger
with "Silence Is Golden," which earned loud applause. Elvis Presley songs were
also a part of the program. The "Rockabilly US" show is Armstrong's dream. He
assembled the huge cast, invested his own money and many of those involved are
his family members.
"This
is what I've always wanted to do," he said before the show, "and we're going to
keep doing it as long as the people like it." Despite the sometimes corny theatrics,
you can't help but have a good time watching so many people working so hard on
stage to entertain an audience.
Anthony
Violanti may be reached at 867-4154 or anthony.violanti@starbanner.com .
Isla
There
is someplace for every taste and this guide will help you the find the place you
need to give your vacation the finishing touch. Gamblers will find different options
between Casinos, Bingos and Slot Machines to try their luck. Everything on Margarita
is within reach and transportation options are relatively inexpensive. If you
are not staying at a resort or hotel with shuttle service you will find plenty
of inexpensive taxi services and can also rent a car to explore on your own. Remember,
gasoline is cheap in Venezuela and this is reflected in most transportation costs.
Start with the beaches, numerous and sometimes secluded, the best beaches are
on the east coast of the island.
You
can explore on your own or take one of several tours operated by local companies
with 
Another
great stop is the Margarita Tropical Gardens and Labyrinth. In the company of
monkeys and other entertaining animal species, you’ll find a maze of tropical
plants with beautiful blooms and unique trees. Then you can wander around a tree
maze with many dead end paths...see who can find their way out first! Enjoy a
sampling of local fruit, have your picture taken with a snake, wrestle with a
bird to keep your hat and you’re on your way again. 
The
park is divided in 4 areas. One, with vegetation that grows between sea level
and 400 m over sea level. (Different kind of cactus, spiny bushes and the emblematic
tree of Nueva Esparta, the Guayacan). Many other species are growing in this area.
The Flower Garden, where you will find the most number of species of gardens on
Margarita Island. An area of contact with Mango, native plum, bananas, sugar cane
and guava trees. The third part of the tour is planted with species that normally
grow over 400 m sea level. A microclimate was created with giant bamboos and irrigation
from the air to achieve the humidity required by these species (Bromeliads, orchids,
callas, ferns palm trees and climbing ferns) At the end of this tour there is
shaded zone with a pond where you can watch and touch some of our tropical fauna:
Turtles, Boa Constrictor, Black Spiders, Royal Parrots and a very sympathetic
Capuchino monkey named Pancho. 
While
visiting Margarita Island, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy its unique Water
Park, 
Churun
Meru With 18 m the highest water slide in Venezuela, will give you a jolt of adrenaline.
In Pemon language, it is known as Angel Falls. If you are one of the bravest,
you will experience a free fall into a canal, slowed down by water. Max speed
140 km/h 
Kukenan
Meru Open Slide, to be used with a float, 15 m high. You can use floats for 1
or 2 persons. A lot of fun. In Pemon Language it is the river that initiates in
Kukena, next to Roraima. On of the main affluences of Caroni River. Max. Speed
70 km/h 
Pachichi
Meru Enclosed slide, 12 m high, to be used with rubber mattresses. Be prepared
for the quick falls and turns. In Pemon Language: Falls at Caroní, a bit down
river of Urinán. Max. Speed 70 km/h 
The
park is located on the island of La Isla Margarita. Many sources list the name
of this park as "Instituto Nacional de Hipodromos" ("National Institute of Hippodromes",
a "Hippodrome" is a horse track/arena). This is the name taken from Vekoma's reference
list (who Vekoma sold the ride to) and is not the name of the park.
