Turtles Taking Over as the Kings of the Sea
Forget swimming with dolphins. The next big thing might just be
sea turtles.
These mysterious dinosaur-era creatures - which can live 80
years, swim thousands of miles from the beaches where they were
born, and yet, somehow, manage to return to the same spots to
lay their own eggs - are an increasing object of fascination for
many Americans. And the travel industry has taken notice. Tour
operators offer turtle-watching expeditions. Hotels brag on their
Web sites about the turtles that come onto their beaches, and
they promote discounts in nesting season, steer guests to
nighttime walks and hatchling releases, not to mention fill gift
shops with turtle-emblazoned towels and even serve turtle-shaped
desserts. [SFGate
