We’re going to take a look at where you can go to watch the local wildlife at work, rest and play. From mainland Europe to the more remote parts of the world, like Antarctica, this guide will show you what you will see and where.

Africa

There is no other continent in the world where you can see the struggle and conflict that wildlife faces on daily and seasonal basis. Hippos, Cheetahs, Wildebeests all occupy this vast country, as well as the beautiful and mysterious Mountain Gorilla. Even though life for most is a struggle, Africa still hosts some of the biggest nature spectacles in the world.

There are a number of wildlife parks and nature reserves that offer accommodation and trips. Look out for lots of volunteer work on offer too!

Antarctica

If you’ve been fascinated by Penguins, Petrels and other seabirds, then Antarctica is the perfect place to see this amazing creatures. They all come to Antarctica each summer to breed, before leaving when winter descends. Only the Male Emperor Penguins remain, during the harsh winter weather, huddling together for warmth and keeping their eggs warm under the downy bulge of their stomachs.

Specialist cruises operate within Antarctica, offering trips in and around the Antarctic Peninsula.

Asia

Asia covers about 30% of the Earths land surface, providing habitat for an array of different animals including the Bengal Tiger, Asian Elephant, Indian Rhino and Clouded Leopard. The waters in and around Asia are also teeming with life, with plenty of coral reefs supporting fish and bigger mammals such dolphins.

There are plenty of wildlife parks and nature reserves that can accommodate you on your trip. Look out for lots of volunteer work on offer too!

Europe

Whether you’re in the more remote parts of the continent or the more populated, the varied wildlife in Europe has something for everyone. From the colder reaches of northern Europe where you can see a selection of Reindeer and Polar Bears to the warmer climate of the Mediterranean where the colonies of sea birds rule the seas and islands.

Due to Europe’s infrastructure, you’ll never have trouble finding accommodation and excursions to see the local wildlife.

North America

From Grizzly Bears to majestic Grey Whales, North America still holds plenty of natural wonders for everyone to see. The National Parks and National Reserves are some of the best places to see them and you can also head to the beach. Watch Elephant Seals battle at Piedras Blancas Beach in California or see Bald Eagles and other birds during the spring migration in the Klamath Basin.

Like Europe, accommodation is plentiful and finding excursions, or planning your own trip to one of the many National Parks/Reserves, is easy.

South America

Known for being diverse and biologically rich when it comes to their wildlife, South America has a landscape for all types of animals. Travel to the Amazon rainforest to see the many different types of monkeys, spiders and insects, or take a trip to the remote and desolate South Georgia Island to view King Penguins and a plethora of different sea birds. Not your thing? Then try out one of the many National Parks.

There are plenty of wildlife parks and nature reserves that can accommodate you on your trip. Look out for lots of volunteer work on offer too!

Whatever wildlife you may see, take a Mobal World Phone with you to stay in touch wherever you go on vacation.

What Cell Phones work in France, Italy, Europe, Peru, Costa Rica, Mexico and Canada? Well… The Mobal World Phone does.

What Cell Phones work in South America, Australia, The UK, Germany and Egypt? The Mobal World Phone does.

What Cell Phones work in Chile, Asia, Ireland, Alaska, Sweden, Internationally, Everywhere? The Mobal World Phone does.

If you’re looking for an affordable solution to make and receive phone calls whilst you are away in another country, The Mobal World Phone is ideal for you. Not only can you make and receive phone calls, but you can also send and receive texts, and, on certain handsets, use the Internet.

Handset prices start at only $29 for our budget international cell phone, but if you want something more familiar to you, like an Android Smart Phone, we also have one of those too.

Check out our products page for more information. Click here to view our products page…>>

The Thuraya XT-Dual boasts ‘it makes the future looks so old’, but what are the real advantages to having a Satellite Phone with built in GSM?

Iridium tried this a while back, and it never really took off. Maybe because no-one wants to be carrying something the size of a Satellite Phone around Walmart when doing their grocery shopping. On the flipside, why have a GSM function while your in remote areas with no chance of any cell phone reception? If the Thuraya XT-Dual really makes the future look so old, then maybe we’ll all be carrying around some bigger phones with us in the future.

If you do use the Thuraya XT-Dual as a cell phone it is worth noting that its GSM primary frequency doesn’t tie up with the USA’s primary frequency of 850MHz, leaving call coverage lacking.

Let’s be honest, people have habits that are hard to break. I bet that you still take your cell phone with you even to remote areas, or at least while you’re traveling there – and for good reason. The Thuraya XT-Dual, tells us not to. It’s half Satellite Phone, half cell phone, so why take both? But why place all your eggs in one basket? Your cell phone is a bit like a comfort blanket, we all carry one with us wherever we go, regardless of whether there is going to be any sort of cell phone reception. If either one of your Satellite Phone or cell phone breaks, or the battery runs out, you have an alternative. This ‘back-up’ offers you at least some peace of mind, and some chance that your cell may work.

With all this said the Thuraya XT-Dual does have some additional functions and features, its built-in Stopwatch, MP3 player, Audio Center and Calendar leave the Iridium 9575 and the IsatPhone Pro trailing behind.

For our range of dedicated Satellite Phones available to buy and to rent, and for more information from our Satellite Expert click here.

Vacations are whatever you make them to be, from relaxing by the pool to getting out and about and exploring. But, every so often, a vacation can be defined by the local cuisine and accompanying drink.

So, what’s your favorite vacation drink? 

Is it something, when thinking about it, reminds you of that vacation? And more importantly, can you get this drink here in the USA? Please let us know in the comments box below.

If you’re thinking about using a travel agent or travel sites to book your European vacation – STOP!

There’s much more to Europe than the famous cities like London, Paris, Rome, Berlin, Amsterdam and Athens. While we already feel familiar with these places, much like visiting an old friend you’ve not seen in a while, there are other cities that are also rich in history and culture – maybe you should consider visiting one of them.

To call these cities ‘lesser known’ isn’t accurate, however we can say that they are less popular. Why? Because, us – the trusted traveler, has to work a little bit harder to get away from the main stream.

So here’s a little guide to those ‘Other Cities’ and the wonders that they have on offer.

Antwerp, Belgium.

Offering a celebrated club scene within its historic narrow and winding streets is quite a paradox – and this is just the tip of the iceberg.

Antwerp is an artistic haven for a lot of cutting edge contemporary culture. So whilst you walk through the old streets you can take in the great masterpieces of artists such as Rubens and Van Dyke. Visit one of many modern galleries and stores, and if you’re looking for that special gift why not give the world-famous Diamond District a try.

There are plenty of restaurants, friendly bars and alehouses to choose from if you fancy eating out, or you’d like to sample the local beer. As previously mentioned, Antwerp has excellent nightlife, with lots of clubs and bars open till late, or early, depending on which way you look at it.

Koycegiz, Turkey.

One for the adventurer, Koycegiz is getting rather popular with the backpacker and the more independent traveler.

Koycegiz translates to ‘small poor village’, but in fairness it’s nothing like that, just a little rough around the edges. This ‘roughness’ has seen its popularity grow, its not quite mainstream yet, but it’s getting there. With lots to do, it’s a great place for the adventurous spirited traveler. Visit mud baths and waterfalls, whitewater raft down the Dalaman River where the rapids can reach up to a Grade 4, or take in the ancient Caunos ruins.

There’s also a number of independent shops of all sizes, but after a hard day of exploring and adventure you may just want to settle for a homemade ice-cream that are sold in the town center.

Cinque Terre, Italy.

Becoming more popular with travelers taking their vacation, this is a fine example of the European Destinations – The Other Cities.

Situated on Italy’s Northeast coast, the impressive ‘Five Villages’ are delightful. Located between Genoa and La Spezia, the stunning villages offer golden sandy beaches, steep cliffs and beautiful sapphire waters. Each village, or town (as some of them are bigger than typical villages found in Europe), offer a quiet alternative to some of the bigger tourist destinations such as Florence or Venice.

The ‘Five Villages’ are Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore. At any one of them you can enjoy sleeping in and relaxing on the beach, or if you’re feeling a bit more energetic go hiking and take a picnic with you.

The Lake District, England.

It is the second largest national park in the UK and one of the most breathtaking regions within it. The Lake District sits just under the Scottish border, in Cumbria Northwest England.

The Lake District was formed by repeated glaciations that have occurred over the last 2 million years. This carved through the landscape to create the magnificent lakes, mountains and valleys on show today.

If you’re Scotland bound, the Lake District makes an ideal stop off point. You can choose to relax and unwind by the many lakes or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can go hiking or climbing one of the many mountains in the area.

Tallinn, Estonia.

Tallinn has emerged from Soviet occupation as a thriving and exciting center filled with many awe-inspiring buildings, which have somehow escaped any damage from more difficult war-torn times.

The cities subterranean bars serve locally made vodka, amongst other alcoholic beverages, and their old stone doorways cast an enticing glow. Walk down dozens of winding, cobbled streets with high wall and ramparts. Stop off for a sandwich, made on native thin, dense black bread at one of the many cafés, or ‘kohviks’.

Estonia’s capital is one of the last remaining truly medieval cities in Europe, with breathtaking Gothic buildings, and is largely undiscovered by visitors from outside the EU.

Dijon, France.

This historical city is the capital of the Burgundy region in France, that lies Southwest of Paris and North of Provence, in the shadow of the French Alps.

Dijon is a lively Renaissance city and one of the great European centres of art, learning and science. It’s home to a large number of museums and churches, notably the Notre Dame de Dijon and Dijon Cathedral, the crypt of which is dedicated to Saint Benignus and dates from 1,000 years ago. The city has retained its varied architectural styles and is distinguished by, among other things ‘toits bourguignons’ – roofs made of tiles glazed in terracotta, green, yellow and black and arranged in eye-catching geometric patterns.

Dijon was largely spared the destruction of wars such as the 1870 Franco-Prussian War and the Second World War, despite the city being occupied. Therefore, many of the old buildings such as the half-timbered houses dating from the 12th to the 15th centuries (found mainly in the city’s core district) are well preserved.

Chora, Greece.

Another fine example of a Greek whitewashed village, perched high on a hill over looking the calm blue waters of the surrounding sea.

Chora is a traditional Greek village, complete with port and access to some amazing sandy beaches. During the day, it is a quiet village made for relaxing and sightseeing. If you want to get away from the beach for a while, why not take a walk through the village square, down windy cobblestone streets and take in the beautiful local churches. However, this all changes as the evening draws in as partygoers start filling the bars, cafés and nightclubs that occupy the once quiet cobbled streets.

At the top of the village hill there is a scenic amphitheatre where some local events take place. You can appreciate the vastness of your environment whilst here, taking in the stunning views of the sea, cliffs and sandy beaches.

Innsbruck, Austria.

Located in a valley, in the midst of the surrounding mountains, Innsbruck is a picturesque city that changes with the seasons.

During the winter months, Innsbruck is one of the top destinations in Europe for skiers, and is also internationally renowned for being a winter sports center, having plenty of excellent resorts to stay at. During the summer months the city explodes in greenery, exposing mountain lakes and superb hiking trails for you to conquer.

The natural environment is amazing, and is well complimented by the city’s architecture. With lots of museums, churches and parks there is plenty to see and do in Innsbruck.

The Hague, Netherlands.

Home to Holland’s Queen Beatrix, the Hague will enchant you with a colourful mix of culture, history and natural beauty.

One of the big attractions is the Maurithaus museum which presides over the canal and houses Johannes Vermeer’s ‘Girl with Pearl Earring’. Take a wander down to the various flea markets, or enjoy a stop off at a smokers coffeeshop. You’re not too far away from the beach here too. Go for a stroll along the beautiful wide beaches and Victorian promenade, which becomes a popular club scene at night. Whatever time of day it is, there is so much to do here.

You would think it was the capital city, given that the Queen, Parliament and all foreign embassies are located here, as well as a center for the United Nations, but that title of capital city is given to Amsterdam. Strange.

Ljubljana, Slovenia.

This small town really punches above its weight. Full of history and culture, with resources typical of its capital city stature, Ljubljana makes an ideal case for being an ‘Other City’.

Ljubljana is a melting pot full of different influences, from Italians to Austro-Hungarian, so it makes for a rather unique atmosphere. Take a trip through the Baroque old town where you’ll find a number of quaint cafés and traditional shops, or take in the local street performers playing tunes in the main square. The castle is another popular attraction, dating back to medieval times it’s undergone some transformation which makes it all the more interesting.

Being centrally located in Slovenia, it makes the city an ideal base to explore the country’s mountains, lakes and caves. The city itself is full of kind and helpful people, willing to engage in conversation in a number of different languages.

If you’re heading in to Europe, or anywhere else on vacation, don’t forget to bring your Mobal World Phone.

Rescue from the Crevasse – The Meagan McGrath Story

“I can’t thank Iridium enough. You helped save my life. The battery of the Iridium phone hung in the whole time. It was my lifeline, truly. The rescue team was able to send me updates on their whereabouts, and eventually came to get me. I was really happy to have had the phone.”

Meagan McGrath

Meagan McGrath is a Canadian Air Force Major and experienced mountaineer. In December 2009, she departed on a journey to become the first Canadian to solo ski from Hercules Inlet in Antarctica to the South Pole.

After a successful test expedition to the North Pole, along with two years of training and researching the terrain, McGrath was well prepared for her mission. Packing enough food and supplies to sustain her for the 45-60 day trek, McGrath also equipped herself with a critical lifeline – her Iridium satellite phone.

No Way Out

Although McGrath had done everything right, she nevertheless fell victim to the treacherous terrain. After momentarily removing her skis – with waves of ice limiting her visibility ahead – McGrath lost her footing and found herself up to her armpits in a crevasse. With no foothold below, she hung precariously from her backpack, which was attached to her sled. A few minutes passed, and the edge that kept McGrath from falling directly into the crevasse gave way, causing her to crash through the surface.  Her fall was abruptly halted by the waistband of her backpack. The sled hung unsteadily above.

After attempting to cut away her waist-belt to avoid suffocation, McGrath shook off her facemask to get a better look at what she was doing. Luckily, her mask landed on a snowy ledge below. She then squirmed through the hole created by her waist-belt and backpack, and fell onto the snow bridge.

Using her poles to maneuver safely along the snow bridge, McGrath traveled 15 meters from her starting position to a high point. The walls were sheer blue ice and difficult for her to get a handhold. She used her ski pole to cut steps into the wall of the crevasse and attempted to climb out, but it was proving too tough.

A Signal of Hope

Still in the crevasse, McGrath remembered her Iridium satellite phone and made her way back to her pack. She then climbed back to her high point and pulled out the handset. She extended the antenna and powered up the phone.

“I had five bars,” said McGrath. “I was happy and astounded. I thought, at that moment, at least my family and friends would know what happened to me and could find out where I was.” McGrath called for help and found that her logistics provider, Antarctic Logistics and Expeditions (ALE) was able to send a search and rescue team to her aid. After eight hours in the crevasse, McGrath was rescued.

“I can’t thank Iridium enough,” McGrath said. “You helped save my life. The battery of the Iridium phone hung in the whole time. It was my lifeline, truly. The rescue team was able to send me updates on their whereabouts, and eventually came to get me. I was really happy to have had the phone.”

See the amazing Satellite Phone rescue video on our YouTube Channel here…>>

Article by Iridium.

We’ve got some good news.

Our International Roaming Data rates are cheaper than AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile.

Over the last few years we’ve seen an increase in data usage for our customers. The introduction of our latest Android Smartphone, the ability to access emails and use the internet has become a added benefit to travelers whilst on vacation. Business has also benefited from having instant access to their emails, enabling them to stay up to date with their work.

For a little over $10 a Mobal customer can easily check a few emails, visit a few websites or update their social media status. It’s this added functionality that really compliments the ability to make and receive calls and texts from over 190 countries worldwide.

The Mobal Android World Phone is the ideal handset for checking emails and browsing the internet, as well as taking photos and videos with its built in 3.2mp camera and viewing them on the 3.5” touchscreen. As it’s an Android Smartphone you get to download a number of free, and paid, applications via the Google Play (formerly Android Market).

So, if you’re off on vacation or you’re a regular business traveler we’ve got the cell phone and data that’s right for you.

Information correct as at 03/08/2012.

Australia’s size gives it a wide variety of landscapes, with subtropical rain forests in the north-east, mountain ranges in the south-east, south-west and east areas, and a dry desert in its centre. It’s the flattest continent, with the oldest and least fertile soils, which is why much of Australia’s population is scattered along its coasts. Its desert or semi-arid land, commonly known as the outback, makes up by far the largest portion of land.

The sheer size of the Outback makes it an ideal place to explore, many thousands of people travel Australia to take in the wonderful remote places, wildlife and culture of the natives.

Here are some regions that are a must for any adventurer:

New South Wales

Wide open spaces, rugged rocks, plains with mirages, deep-blue skies, wildlife, unique pubs and historical places await you in the Outback.

Silverton

Whilst heading along the Australian Outback pay Silverton a visit. This famous Outback ghost town has attracted numerous artists and film makers. It’s not actually a real ghost town, as the famous pub, galleries and the tea rooms still offer services for visitors. Don’t miss the Mundi Mundi lookout a few kilometre out of town.

The Kinchega National Park lies within the New South Wales Outback and is a must see for any explorer. The park surrounds the Darling River and several lakes, which are full for the first time in over 10 years, and are teeming with wildlife. Aboriginal sites and European structures also form part of the Kinchega National Park.

Another National Park to visit is Sturt. The park itself protects an enormous arid landscape, full of the rolling red-sand dunes of the Strzlecki desert through the western section which gradually surpasses in wetlands surrounded by white sands. Plenty of stunning views are available in this diverse landscape.

Wild Dog Fence

Its the longest structure in the world, a single fence over more than 5000 kilometres in length. Originally built in the 1890s to help control the enormous rabbit population  which was devastating huge areas of inland and regional Australia, the Wild Dog Fence was converted to a dingo fence in 1914.  It stretches from Nambour in the east to the Indian Ocean in the west. There are several locations where the fence is visible to travellers; one of which is Cameron Corner.

Some highways may make a dull drive, but not this one. The Barrier Highway connects the Outback with ‘civilization. The highway takes in the world famous Blues Mountains, including Echo Point, the Three Sisters, and Wentworth Falls. The Blue Mountains themselves are worth a possible stopover as there is so much on offer to really experience the beauty and grandeur of this Australian icon.

Queensland

The Outback in Queensland offers diverse and stunning landscapes. It’s here where Australian icons, the Royal Flying Doctor Service and Australia’s national airline Qantas, were born. The Outback here offers so much. It’s perhaps not as sparse as some other regions with plenty for everyone to do.

Australian Dinosaur Trail

As Australia contains the oldest soils, it’s no surprise that you can follow the Australian Dinosaur Trail. At least four specimens have been found in Queensland (the second near Hughenden in 1987, and fragments of two on Iona, also near Hughenden). A great adventure for both adults and children alike.

One of the main routes through the Outback here is the Matilda Highway. The highway crosses a region of diverse & stunning landscapes the endlessly rolling Mitchell and Flinders grass downs that produce food for cattle & sheep harsh rocky ranges rich in zinc, copper, lead and silver ore around Mt Isa flat plains as far as your eye can see along the Gulf of Carpentaria. Where the Outback meets the sea is Karumba, the prawn capital of Queensland wildlife is abundant, as anywhere in the Australian Outback.

Try a trip to Winton, the birthplace of Qantas, the famous Australian national airline. But that’s not all, Winton is also famous for being the birthplace of Australia’s Unofficial National Anthem ‘Waltzing Matilda’. You can also try out some sheep shearing at local farms.

Mount Isa

If you’re after something a little different, try the historic mining town of Mount Isa. Attractions include the Hard Times Mine at “Outback at Isa”, the Mount Isa Rodeo and Mardi Gras has given Mount Isa the title of “Rodeo Capital of Australia”. You can also visit the Underground Hospital, a historic building used during World War II.

The Royal Flying Doctors Service was launched in Cloncurry with the first flight on 17 May 1928. The John Flynn Place Museum pay homage to this crucial part of Outback life. Whilst in Cloncurry, or ‘the curry’ as its affectionately known, visit a working open-cut mine and experience the work and rewards it offers.

South Australia

The Outback in South Australia covers about 80 % of the state’s area. Population? Less than 1 % of South Australians live in the Outback. It’s a harsh and dry land, nevertheless, the South Australian Outback surprises with grandeur and timeless beauty.

Marree

Once you passed the Flinders Ranges, the Outback begins. Leigh Creek, an open-cut coal-mining town is the last town of any size in South Australia’s north east. The tiny township of Marree offers you many relics from a glorious past as a railway town. From Marree you have the choice of two famous tracks. The Birdsville Track takes you into the far south west of Outback Queensland and its stunning channel country.

The Stuart Highway is the main south – north route through the centre of Australia. The road divides the South Australian Outback. It’s a long drive on this well-maintained bitumen road from Port Augusta to Alice Springs in the Northern Territory, even longer up to Darwin!

Off the highway you can take in the beautiful views of the surrounding lakes. These are usually dry salt lakes that glisten in the sun. The smaller salt pans, closer to the highway, are always worth a stop. Along with the red earth and the blue sky you have the chance to take amazing photos.

Woomera

Heard of Woomera? Well, this was the testing area for long range missiles in the cold war. It is still a strategic defense post used for aerospace activities. The town now welcomes visitors, however, a huge area west of the highway is still restricted.

The most interesting town in this part of Outback South Australia beyond doubt is Coober Pedy. Aboriginal people have a long-standing connection with the area. The harsh summer desert temperatures mean that many residents prefer to live in caves bored into the hillsides (“dugouts”). The first tree ever seen in the town was welded together from scrap iron. It still sits on a hilltop overlooking the town. All of this makes ‘the opal capital of the world’ a must see place.

Gawler Ranges

If you enjoy traveling on the more remote routes you should consider the ‘bomb roads’ around the Roxby Downs area. These tracks are very remote, but they cover some of Australia’s most scenic desert country. Another route you could take is between Glendambo (Stuart Highway) and Wudinna (Eyre Peninsula) where you can see the Gawler Ranges. Ancient volcanic structures, called organ pipes and the vast, glistening Lake Gairdner. Great for 4WD enthusiasts.

Be prepared

Iridium recently posted about two customers who made history using Iridium satellite phones with Twitter to update followers from some of the farthest corners of the Earth.

For our customers who have purchased an IsatPhone Pro Satellite Phone from Mobal, there has been an upgraded version of the phones firmware released.

The new Firmware 5.0.0 is available from the Inmarsat’s IsatPhone Live 

Version 5.0.0 offers a new personal alert feature to the handset, that is very similar to the new SOS feature of the Iridium’s new Extreme handset.

The personal alert feature enables a user to send their GPS position, along with a short pre-configured message, as an email or text message, to a maximum of 10 recipients.

If required the personal alert can be sent very quickly and is restricted to 160 characters to try and maximize the reliabilty of delivery. The message is sent individually to each recipient one at a time. *

To set up and activate a personal alert, turn on your IsatPhone Pro press Menu > Extras > Personal alert > Configure personal alert. Then you can add/edit the recipients and the message.

The personal alert message the recipient receives contains the following information;

- Last GPS Fix, the time of the last GPS fix and the GPS fix accuracy
- The time the personal alert was triggered on the IsatPhone Pro
- Email address, if alert sent as an email
- Short predefined message from user

Once you have setup your IsatPhone Pro personal alert the quickest way to activate a personal alert is to press * and # simultaneously for at least 2 seconds from the main screen.  Your IsatPhone Pro antenna must be deployed and your phone be connected to the satellite to successfully send personal alert messages.

For more information on the IsatPhone Pro

If you have any questions regarding the IsatPhone Pro or this recent upgrade please leave them in the comments section and I will get back to you with an answer as soon as I can.

*Each message sent is charged separately.

Cheers

Stephen Clough