I am near Huntsville, in North Alabama. I do a lot of work for Alabama
State Tourism and am Executive Director of the Alabama Scenic River
Trail (alabamascenicrivertrail.com). I lead hikes all the time in
Bankhead National Forest, and have published several books about the
outdoor aspects of the state. I can put you in touch with anyone,
anywhere in the state for a recreational, civil rights, civil war,
naturalist or other experience you may want. Just let me know what
you're interested in.

Jim

On Wed, Jan 6, 2010 at 9:26 PM, Richard Koerner <rjkinpb@sbcglobal.net> wrote:
> Florida...one of the best experiences of my life was swimming with the manatees in Crystal River, Florida.� Costs $50 for guide, boat, snorkel equipment, wetsuit.� Excellent.� Usually groups of about 12 in a pontoon boat.� Many places to book tours the day before in Crystal River...I went to "Birds".� Just check the internet.� About a 4 hour experience.� They put in the water at dawn...water is super clear.� Manatees like you to rub their underarms and bellies.� The best time is NOW...winter...when the ocean is cold they move inland into the freshwater springs, so that's where the pontoon boats go.� Prime season is November to February.� Do it..you won't regret.� Vanagon camping (required vanagon content) is nearby, or a cheap local mom and pop motel like I did because it was only late October and still a little warmish and humid, but we still had lots of manatees.
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> Rich
> San Diego
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