We've all heard about whalewatching from boats or shore, and a few companies are now offering the possibility of actually swimming and snorkeling with whales in the wild. Is this a good thing?

Some whalewatching operators in the Kingdom of Tonga, South Pacific islands, advertise the possibility of swimming and snorkeling with humpback whales during the cetacean's annual migration from July to October. This activity sounds appealing, yet there are a number of things to consider.

Overview: Maori Art and Culture

Maori are the indigenous people of New Zealand and their culture is an integral part of New Zealand life. The New Zealand culture combines both European and Maori influences to create a unique identity that is fresh, invigorating and adventurous. About 15% of the country’s population of 4 million are of Maori descent. Maori are a tribal people and their tribes are known as iwi. Today most live in urban areas, away from their kainga (traditional villages). However, many gather at their home marae (meeting grounds) for important occasions. Maori gain strength and their identity from the life of the marae.

I'm almost ashamed to admit that it was the altogether incredible author, Erich von Daniken, who fired my fascination with far-off and mysterious lands.

When Chariots of the Gods burst onto TV screens in the early '70s, I was but a naïve, goggle-eyed youngster all too ready to consume these wild theories. But quite apart from perpetrating outlandish notions of alien interference, the charlatanic von Daniken did introduce me to some of the little known mysteries of the ancient world.

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I had already dubbed myself the world's most inept volcano-chaser. I'd been to some of the most famous eruption sites in the world, yet seen little more than enough steam to make a cup of tea.

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