9781422280829

People love to be near the water. It is no accident that waterfront property is more expensive than the same amount of property inland. The ocean-view room at a hotel is always going to cost more than the one across the hall, and that waterfront hotel is always going to cost more than the one across the street. There is just something about the water that is soothing and relaxing. Another aspect of being close to the water, however, is that it also puts us closer to one of our favorite playgrounds. From when we are very young, splashing and playing in the water is very entertaining, and the range of entertainment options available expands with age. Perhaps it starts with canoeing or kayaking, paddling gently on a lake as a kid, or even sailing with a parent or loved one. As kids get a little older and crave a little more speed, they might take up waterskiing or go snorkeling on a family vacation. As kids get more daring with age, sports like white-water rafting and surfing become more appealing. And of course, for the full-blown grown-up adrenaline junkie, racing powerboats at death-defying speeds is a popular option. Whether it involves being deep under the water, plowing through it, or barely skimming its surface, there is a wide range of activities that make up the exciting world of water sports.

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