Many of Maho employee/expatriates are flight-from-the-modern-mold who make a modest living assisting as volunteers for a month or two at eco-lodge to straighten out whatever problem that needs to be hammered back into shape. And many of them stay, such as long-haired short order cook, marketing director who came here over 16 years ago and never left, and glass blowing instructor, who turns that beer bottle in you mitt into an ashtray or other work of art.

Maho Bay offers one month summer program, usually in June, to those looking for a cheap vacation. There is no wages attached, in turn you give resort four hours a day of your time in return for a bunk at tent hotel. The restaurant meals are also discounted for volunteers. But what a great way to spend some time in paradise.

The National Park offers Cinnamon Bay Campground for those that want to camp, but hey, why camp when you can bask in luxury at Maho Bay Camps, just around corner, and on one of most beautiful bays in Caribbean.

HARMONY STUDIOS

At top of Maho Bay Camps and a five minute walk on boardwalk from Maho Bay Camp is Harmony Studios, a row of two-story duplex cottages that offer more convenience and comfort for campers. These are not tents; architecture employs passive solar design, photovoltaics, rain collection and roof scoops that draw cooling breezes through well-furnished rooms that have recycled building materials such as "plastic lumber", recycled glass tiles, steel nails, and rubber tire rugs. Interactive computers in some units monitor daily energy use. Harmony blends great Caribbean vacations with international ecotourism movement.

The 2-story wooden Harmony Estate structures come with a key to turn on and off solar power for hot water and to supply electricity to small fridge. Harmony is mostly king bedded rooms with a separate bath area ensuite. Sit on small patio and listen to hummingbirds.

Bedroom Studios (upper/lower) have two twin beds (roll aways are also available), kitchenettes with microwave, all kitchen appliances and cooking utensils, dining table and chairs, tiled private bathrooms, all linens, and a spacious 6' x 18' deck with furniture.

Living Room Studios (upper/lower) have queen-size sofa-beds, two twin beds, kitchenettes with microwave, all kitchen appliances and cooking utensils, spacious dining areas, all linens, tiled private bath, and a large 6' x 20' deck with furniture.

Concordia Eco Tents and Concordia Estates are also owned by Maho Bay Camps

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Kriss Hammond, Jetsetters Magazine Correspondent – Read Jetsetters Magazine at www.jetsettersmagazine.com To book travel visit Jetstreams.com at www.jetstreams.com and for Beach Resorts visit Beach Booker at www.beachbooker.com

There are huge trees decked with orchids that contrast with giant victoria-regia, lilies, bromeliads, royal poincianas, and tropical foliage, making Botanical Gardens a favorite tourist attraction. Sugar Loaf Rio's signature landmark is at entrance of Guanabara Bay-- famous Sugar Loaf Mountain. Take a “bondinho” (cable car) to top of Morro da Urca and eat a snack while admiring one of most beautiful views in world. Then, continue on to peak of Sugar Loaf and enjoy a complete view of Bay and beautiful Rio beaches.

Island of Paqueta Visit beautiful island of Paquetá, lying in middle of Guanabara Bay, just one hour from downtown by ferry. The only means to get to island is by boat as there are no bridges linking it to continent. The only cars on Paquetá are one ambulance, one police car, and one fire truck. The beauty of this excursion begins when you board ferry at Praça XV (downtown). Bring or wear a bathing suit and towel, because once you are on Paquetá, you will love beautiful beaches, quaint atmosphere, and unforgettable sunset. There are some wonderful photo opportunities on island as well. Modern Art Museum Be sure to check out Modern Art Museum located in Flamengo Park close to downtown. The museum is home to 1,700 works, including paintings, sculptures and engravings by Brazilian and foreign artists. It's definitely worth your time to visit.