Ndola


The Center of Ndola, Zambia
Photo by: wiki , Creative Commons

Zambia is known for its copper-mining region that is also named the Copperbelt. Ndola is the capital of the Copperbelt province and is also the commercial capital of the country. This is one of only three cities that has an international airport throughout Zambia. The city holds a wide array of three and four-star hotels that offer comfortable accommodations to travelers who are interested in seeing the city.

Even a quiet and peaceful city as Ndola has its share of social areas to experience. There are sports clubs as well as dining places and shopping centers that you can explore. During the evenings, there are a number of night clubs that are often visited by the locals and tourists. Ndola is known to be a safe city to roam in.

While Ndola is known for its social, commercial and industrial industries, this city also holds its share of culture and history. Religion for one is held with high regard in Ndola. The majority of the population are Christians and Catholics. The Saint Andrew’s Cathedral can be found at the heart of the city. This is one of the most common places to visit and marvel at its beauty and the affinity it holds for their religion.

June 5, 2010 at 7:26 pm | 2 comments

Trinidad

Beautiful sunset in Trinidad, Bolivia.

Photo by: notallpotatoescanswim , Creative Commons

Trinidad is the capital city of Beni, Bolivia. It has a population of more than 100,000 inhabitants. It is situated at a 237-meter altitude above sea level, which is 14 degrees latitude at the south of the equator. The climate in Trinidad is humid and tropical although it is generally hot all throughout the year. Trinidad’s temperature ranges between 22C and 28C or 71F and 83F. During summer, rainfalls can be experienced, with most of it occurring in the winter.

You can get to Trinidad either by land, air, or river. If you are coming from Santa Cruz, it would be 550 km by asphalt and rubble road. If you are coming from La Paz, it would be 595 km by asphalt road. If you opt to use the river, you can take the Guayaramerin City as a disembarking port fro Puerto Villaroel, which is situated in the Chapare region of Cochabamba. On the other hand, you should know that Trinidad is not located near riverbanks. It may take 3 to 10 days if you opt your trip from Puerto Villaroel to Guayaramerin City.

Some of the main attractions in Trinidad, Bolivia include the following:

• Sanctuario Chuchini – This main attraction includes prehistoric works from Paititis, which is believed to be over 5,000 years old.
• Laguna Suárez – This main attraction is a huge artificial lake that is 5 km from Trinidad.
• Loma Suárez – This main attraction is an artificial mount that is 9 km from Trinidad.
• Puerto Barador – This main attraction boasts of pink river dolphins as it is located along the Momore river shores.

June 5, 2010 at 6:19 pm | No comment

Marsh Harbor

Th beautiful blue sky over Marsh Harbor, Bahamas

Photo by: tomathon, Creative Commons

Marsh Harbor, Bahamas is the home to about four thousand people and is the third largest town in the Bahamas. It is the largest town in the island of Abaco and has most of the inns, hotels, marinas, and diving spots. Marsh Harbor is known as a significant hub to ferries, which connect the rest of the Loyalist Cays. Aside from earning revenue from tourism, it also has a large shipbuilding industry. It is just off the Great Abaco Highway. Marsh Harbor is also near Little Abaco and Treasure Cay, so if you happen to be in either location, it will be a great idea to drive through the town too.

Marsh Harbor has everything you will need for a typical small town in Florida. It has a bookstore, grocery stores, post office, specialty shops, laundry mats and travel agencies. Most of the town’s visitors come here to swim, boat, snorkel, or simply stay at one of the lodges found near the waterfront on Bay Street. By doing so, you can enjoy a quiet and relaxing time alone or with the family. If you want to try kayaking, it is easy to arrange a trip with the guides too.

There are taxis, which go around the town to help transport you from one spot to another. However, you can also choose to rent a bicycle, a motorcycle or a motor scooter if you feel like going on a solo trip or with a friend. The town is a relatively safe place for tourists and the people here are friendly and accommodating.

June 5, 2010 at 12:08 pm | No comment

Salzburg Old Town


A busy street in Salzburg Old Town.
Photo by: trish, Creative Commons

The old town of Salzburg is a panorama of spectacular beauty and majestic Baroque architecture. It is known as one of the loveliest city in the whole of Europe and is a world heritage site.

It is the birthplace of the famous musician and composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Salzburg Old Town is a stunning sight. It sits on the bank of the River of Salzach where the ancient Roman settlements were once located. It is a lovely postcard town. It is one place that can easily be appreciated for its beauty and its location as well as the views that it offers.

In 1997, it is recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. The city has strict preservation laws which allow it to maintain its beauty and ardor despite its development.

A walk in the old town allows you to relish its magnificent sites. It is crowned by the Hohensalzburg Fortress which was built in 1077 and is fully preserved until today. The fortress had served as a temporary shelter to prince archbishops and also as a military camp and a prison. Presently the fortress is open to public viewing especially to those who want to travel back in time to this amazing old town.

It is also the location of various churches that offer the best Baroque designs. A walk in the Salzburg Old Town is truly reminiscent of past times, especially because of the beautiful churches that give an ancient feel to it.

What is truly remarkable about Salzburg Old Town is how it manages to preserve the beauty of the city making it a spectacular site for tourists to visit.

This wonderful town is also the location for various parts of the production of “The Sound of Music,” a film by the 20th Century Fox Film Company.

June 5, 2010 at 12:00 pm | 2 comments

Santa Marta

Tayrona Park, Santa Marta, Colombia

Photo by: benbowes , Creative Commons

The city and municipality of Santa Marta, Colombia is uniquely positioned between the snowy peaks of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Mountains and the sandy beaches of the Caribbean Sea on the northern part of Colombia. This interesting contrast in the landscape makes the area a prime tourist destination for those seeking an relaxing day lazing on the beach and for those who are inclined to explore the mountainous regions.

Also known as the Pearl of the Americas, Santa Marta, Colombia celebrates the annual Las Fiestas del Mar or Festival of the Seas at approximately in the middle of the year with a motto that affirms the area’s reputation for having it all. For those who are into cultural explorations, a visit to the Museo del Oro is an educational way to discover the country’s pre-Columbian heritage. The museum showcases numerous Indian artifacts that will satisfy all levels of curiosity among visitors who are interested to know more about the country’s pre-colonial past. A quick tour of the historic grave of national hero Simon Bolivar can be a perfect way to end any cultural tour of the city.

Tourists can have all the fun they can wish for under the sun on the El Rodadero Beach, described by seasoned travelers as the less crowded version of Brazil’s Ipanema beach. From El Rodadero, pristine nature is only 34 kilometers away at the Tayrona National Natural Park which is reputed as the most significant ecological preserve in the region. Visitors can discover virgin beaches, native tribes, and unspoiled camping zones within the vicinity. Clear scuba diving sites also abound in the nearby fishing town of Taganga which provides a great opportunity to meet the locals.

If sunny beaches does not suit your fancy, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Mountains can provide amazing opportunities for treks amidst a cooler surrounding. This terrain that fringes Santa Marta, Colombia leads to the Lost City or La Ciudad Perdida. The ancient stone structures are poignant remnants of the indigenous civilization that once proliferated in the area between the 11th to the 14th centuries. The area is cooled by surrounding rivers for explorers to take a quick cooling swim. More opportunities to interact with locals abound in the rural farming villages populated by Tayrona Indians.

From the nature reserves of the coast to the preserved archaeological structures of the mountains, Santa Marta, Colombia is a unique place in South America that seems to truly have it all.

June 4, 2010 at 9:50 pm | 1 comment

Koutiala


Radio Station in Koutiala
Photo by: robinelaine, Creative Commons

Visiting Koutiala in Mali makes for a worthwhile vacation. The ancient Mali culture is still present within the local residents in the city. Upon arriving in the city, you can be surprised by how simple their lives are. While exploring the city, you’ll notice the local style of architecture which reflects their culture as well. Furthermore, the local residents are friendly to their tourists and they will welcome you with their warmest smiles.

While touring Koutiala, it is advisable to roam around the city boarded on a bus in order to appreciate the Mali wildlife that you can found on the borders surrounding the city. Koutiala is also famous for their cotton production and it is their main industry. For this reason, you can expect to see many textile factories manufacturing different kinds of textiles. Try to purchase some fabrics found in the shops to appreciate the residents’ culture reflected in their products. Various souvenir shops can also be found here where you can purchase unique souvenir items that will remind you of Mali.

June 4, 2010 at 1:48 pm | No comment

Al Kufrah


Al Kufrah map
Photo by: Wiki Commons , Creative Commons

The Al Kufrah city can be found in the middle of the Libyan Desert. It is an oasis amidst the Libyan Desert and is a refuge for Libyan travelers. For this reason, the market is primarily utilized by tourists as it is what most travelers look for. You can find great merchandise especially stuff hard to find in other places in Libya. Various traditional products can be found here as well making great souvenirs to take home.

There are only few local residents in Al Kufrah and most are Muslim. In the center of the town, the At Taj can be found which is considered the holy city of Sanusi. Sanusi is a Muslim sect in the area which is highly important for the locals. Travelling tourists visit At Taj in order to be familiar with the Sanusi sect of Muslim religion. Overall, the residential houses within Al Kufrah are mostly built in their local style of architecture and can withstand extreme temperatures.

Before visiting Al Kufrah, it is worthwhile to get familiar first with their culture in order to fully appreciate it. You can do this by reading articles about their traditions and way of living. Above all, the most important thing to remember is to ensure that your trip is arranged completely so your vacation will be trouble-free!

June 3, 2010 at 12:09 pm | 2 comments

Recife

Some hotels along the Capibaribe River, Recife.

Photo by: canoafurada , Creative Commons

Recife is not one of the most famous cities in Brazil. In fact some people think that it is not a good place to go to simply because the city is full of old buildings that seem to already be decaying. There are beaches in the place, yes, but some tourists tend to be attracted more by other beaches that are more beautiful and more “happening”. In short for most people, Recife is the embodiment of the word mediocre in terms of tourism.

But contrary to what they know, Recife is nothing but mediocre. It really just depends on how you will look at it and appreciate it. If you think that the old buildings are quite unsightly, then pity you because those are actually traces of the heritage of the people in the city. In fact to recognize that, the city is taking considerable effort in restoring their old structures.

And if the vintage buildings made you want to experience true Brazilian culture more, here are some attractions that you may want to visit.

1. The Governor’s Palace

This palace is a solid structure that has existed since 1841. Plus, it has a beautiful garden that is adorned with a rare century old African tree – Baobab.

2. Pottery Brennand

No, this is not just a regular pottery factory that offers tours inside. On the contrary, it is known to be the home of a Brazilian legend named Francisco Brennand. As such, you can expect to see a showcase of his own famed works in his gallery. With his works, you can definitely see the conflict of the Portuguese and Dutch culture that was existing during his time.

What’s more is that if you really find time to explore the place, you will discover that there is a temple inside it, other exhibits/ galleries and most of all a gorgeous garden with impeccable landscape.

3. Olinda

Olinda is the best place to go to if you want to have a peek at Brazil during its colonial era. Here, you will find that the entire area is practically lined with colonial styled houses, temples and other cobblestone structures. If you want to really experience the beauty of the place more, then it is recommended for you to just take your time exploring it by foot.

Those are three of the places that you should go to when you visit Recife. Hopefully, after seeing them, you’ll find that mediocrity does not exist in this beautiful place.

June 2, 2010 at 3:26 pm | No comment

Faliraki


Fishing Cove in Faliraki, Greece
Photo by: francesco sgroi, Creative Commons

For a beautiful vacation in an exotic location try Faliraki in Greece.

Where to Shop – For many travelers shopping in an unfamiliar country or city can be a good way to start a vacation. It is a great way to meet the locals and get into the middle of the local vibe. In Faliraki, shopping can be an adventure itself. Visiting Rhodes Old Town for example, can be a visual treat for shoppers looking for bargains in shops along its narrow, cobblestone streets. Among the great souvenirs that can be haggled down to bargain prices in this area are ceramics, gold or silver jewelry, and custom-made leather bags, belts and sandals. For a more modern, cosmopolitan feel, Faliraki Square has stores that sell Greek counterparts of items that many tourists may have forgotten to pack with them.

Where to Eat – Faliraki’s eateries are as varied as any major city in the world. There are local Greek taverns, fast food outlets, steak houses, and even Chinese restaurants. Many of these establishments are open until the wee hours of the morning to cater to the needs of those who are into the local club scene

Where to Party – Everywhere! Well at least that is going to be the impression if a first-time visitor drops by Club Street and Bar Street at night during the peak season. It has been said that every summer, locals anticipate the British invasion as thousands of holiday seekers from the United Kingdom flock to the many clubs of Faliraki, Greece to dance their worries away. Among the most popular clubs are Bed, Q Club, and Ziggy’s.

Where to Relax – Faliraki its best known to tourists for its beach that stretches for 4 miles filled with sun beds and beach umbrellas. Relaxing around this sandy stretch is the perfect counterpoint for all the hectic activities of a time-strapped holiday seeker.

May 30, 2010 at 6:54 pm | No comment

The Kunthistorisches Museum


A Painter at Kunthistorisches Museum, Austria.
Photo by: Owner , Creative Commons

The Kunthistorisches Museum in Vienna is considered as one of the most important premier museums in the world. It is located near the Hofburg Imperial Palace and is the home of the Habsburg imperial collection.

The Kunthistorisches Museum was erected across the Naturhistorisches Museum and both of these museums are characterized with the same exterior.

The museum was a major museum building in the 19th century. It represents the expansion of the city and is built in the honor of Emperor Franz Joseph I.

The primary collection held by the Kunthistorisches Museum is the comprehensive collection of the Habsburg. The most important imperial dynasty of Austria has a wide collection of art and the construction of Kunthistorisches was intended to make the Habsburg art collection open to the public.

It is home to various collections that are famous in the world.

1. Egyptian and Near Asian Collection. It features a wide collection of Egyptian relics which originated from the Predynastic period of Egypt and dates back to four thousand years ago. It shows the development of the Egyptian culture in terms of history and writing and includes ancient items from the Mediterranean, Mesopotamia, as well as the Arabian Peninsula.

2. Greek and Roman Antiquities. The oldest and the most unique diversity of Greek and Roman ancient items can be found in this collection. Relics of the Bronze Age ceramics to the Early Medieval period are the most important items included in it.

3. Picture Gallery. It is the art collection of the House of Habsburg. It holds various masterpieces of world renowned artists like Raphael, Rembrandt, Velazquez, as well as Italian Baroque painters.

4. Sculpture and Decorative Arts. A unique collection of sculptures and decorations that showcases the extraordinary things that emperor’s and imperial family members have commissioned to find and purchased.

5. The Coin Cabinet. The largest and most important coin collection in the world.

6. The Theater Collection of the Austrian National Library. It is a public library that is home to the extensive book collection of Burgtheater actor, Hugo Thimig. It contains over 90,000 books and references that emphasize art, music, dance, and theater.

The Kunthistorisches Museum is a world class museum that is an experience of culture, history, and the arts in each of its corners.

May 30, 2010 at 12:09 pm | No comment

South Luangwa National Park


Hippos in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Photo by: imolcho, Creative Commons

One of the most popular conservation parks in Zambia is the South Luangwa National Park. This place has a large variety of animal species that visitors enjoy seeing. It has been said that taking evening drives around the park provides the most number of animal appearances because most of them are nocturnal. Some of these include foraging hippopotamuses, genets cats, civets, hyenas, bush babies, nightjars and servals. Lions on the other hand can be seen at any time of the day as they freely roam the lands.

The South Luangwa National Park is also popular being the home to two unique subspecies. These include the Thorneycroft giraffes that have dark skin patterns and the Cookson’s wildebeest. Apart from the educational and fascinating safari trips, the park is also known for offering visitors a marvelous opportunity to observe the wide variety of birds in the park. You can find over four hundred different bird species in this park. Some of these are migrant birds while others are birds of prey. A great number of the birds that you will see are water birds that often wade and stalk prey in the lagoons and other small bodies of water. As you watch and marvel at their gracefulness, you can see them as they dive for fish, which is always a spectacle.

May 29, 2010 at 7:26 pm | No comment

Enniskillen


Devenish Island located in Enniskillen, Northern Ireland
Photo by: jule_berlin , Creative Commons

Cole’s Monument, Ardhowen Theatre, Castle Coole, Enniskillen Collegiate Grammar School, Enniskillen Castle, Portora Royal School, St Macartin’s Cathedral, The Diamond and Town Hall, The Clinton Center, St. Michael’s College (Enniskillen), Fort Lodge Hotel, Wetherspoons Pub & Bar, The Round O, The Lakeland Forum are just some of the places that you can visit when in Enniskillen, Northern Ireland. It is duly noted that within the past years this city has hosted several international events displaying its capacity to cater to millions of tourists.

The World Waterski World Cup has been held in the area for three consecutive years, while a Pro wake boarding competition was help in 2007. Rally Ireland 2009, the first leg of the World Rally Championship was also held here.

Enniskillen is located in an area of Fermanagh that separates the Upper and Lower Lough Erne. It is also known to be the largest settlement area in Ireland. The town centre is built on the narrow Main Street, which is accustomed to the busy everyday traffic due to the availability of the shops in the area. High end stores and independent carts are located throughout the city giving the tourists a variety of products to purchase.

The activity in Enniskillen does not end when the day ends. Bars and pubs are available for tourists to enjoy themselves after a hard day’s vacationing. The drinks range from the classic selection of wines and coffees.

Farmhouses and townhouses, cottages and bungalows are available for you to rent while staying in the area to maximize the feel of the place. Although there are Bed and Breakfasts and hotels to stay in, staying in the cottages will give you a homier atmosphere and will give you the complete Enniskillen experience.

May 29, 2010 at 3:34 am | No comment

Conwy


Bridge in Conwy
Photo by: Verity Cridland, Creative Commons

If you happen to be traveling to Northern Wales, make sure to drop by Conwy for a chance to see this quaint walled town in all of its glory. Ever since this small sleepy town was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, it has enjoyed a steady stream of tourists, wanting to know more about Welsh history. So whether you’re looking for any mysteries the church castle holds, or you just want to admire its structural beauty, you won’t be disappointed with what Conwy Wales has to offer you.

As you step into Conwy, you’ll get that feeling of being transported back in time, when kings ruled the land and knights roamed the streets on their magnificent horses. Conwy castle, though smaller than the other castles in the nearby towns, will provide you with a magnificent view of the sea on one side, and land on the other. Another priceless gem is the original town hall, which has 22 towers that you can explore. If you’re looking for the oldest surviving townhouses on this side of Wales, then the Plas Mawr and the Aberconwy House is surely worth a visit.

But your Conwy day trip doesn’t end there. If you have the time, make sure to take a sightseeing tour boat ride along the Conwy River to see the town from another perspective. This 30-minute ride, which only exists in the summer months, will give you a breathtaking view of the town. Make a pit stop at the working riverfront for a snack. The Conwy mussels and the fish and chips in this area are delectable treats that will surely have you wanting more.
This town boasts of having one of a kind store so you’re sure to enjoy a unique shopping experience every time. They have everything from random art prints to high quality chocolate treats to surfing apparel. You’ll even find a butcher’s shop on the high street that sell welsh oggies, sausages and welsh rarebit. If you’re looking for products that reflect the Conwy craftsmanship then head on to Rowehill Street, where you’ll find beautiful jewelry and unique items to give as gifts.

Since the town is quite compact, the best way to see the sights up close is by walking. If you’re planning to venture out to the downtown area, you can take a bus. But no matter how you decide to get around Conwy or the number of times you have come to visit, you’ll surely feel that there’s always certain magic in the air.

May 27, 2010 at 11:02 pm | No comment

Lusaka


Kasisi Agroforestry Training Center, Zambia
Photo by:
treesftf
, Creative Commons

The capital of Zambia is Lusaka and is known to be the largest city in the country. English is one of the main languages spoken in the city, which is why it is easy for tourists from all over the world to connect and communicate with the locals. People are nice and very hospitable. The famous shopping places of the Kamwala Market and the New City Market are often visited for the same reason.

Lusaka never falls short of showcasing its rich and marvelous culture. These can be seen and appreciated in the museums around the city. The Zintu Community Museum, the Political Museum and the Lusaka National Museum are among the museums that hold various artifacts and information about the city and the country. For those who would like to see more of the city’s history, there are also other places that you can find many points of interest. There are the Moore Pottery Factory, Cathedral of the Holy Cross, a Cenotaph, the Lusaka Playhouse Theater, the Freedom Statue and the Zambian National Assembly. Even the international airport holds a relative piece of history and culture. It is used by both the public and the military. It has been said that the old airport was meant for public use. These days, it is known to be occasionally used by the head of the country.

For those who are more inclined to appreciating what nature has to offer, there are places that can offer just that in this city. There is the Agricultural Society Show grounds that is best known for their annual festivities, the Munda Wanga Environmental Park, Botanical Gardens and a zoo.

May 27, 2010 at 7:22 pm | 1 comment

Dumfries


Devorgilla Bridge over River Nith, Dumfries
Photo by: MairiMcCann , Creative Commons

Christened as the Queen of the South, Dumfries, Scotland is truly a wonder that boasts of picturesque attractions and unforgettable sights that continue to attract tourists worldwide. It is the largest city in the southwest of Scotland and is an ancient town that is notable for its culture and history.

Dumfries, Scotland is a romantic picturesque city with its beautiful lochs and captivating woodlands. One of the best places to visit is the medieval Castle Douglas which the only remaining tower was built around the 17th century. There is also the Threave Gardens which is a popular attraction located at the southwest of Castle Douglas. It boasts a 24 hectare garden that contains beautiful flowers and landscapes that truly captivate visitors who come to visit it.

A visit to Dumfries, Scotland can never be complete unless one takes a trip to Galloway Forest Park. It is the largest forest park in Great Britain and attracts a million tourists. Tourists can choose between a quiet and peaceful stroll on any of its woodland trails and breathe in the scenic beauty of the place. More adventurous tourists can choose to climb the highest peak in South Scotland. The park is every nature lover’s dream where walking, rock and ice climbing and even cycling are pleasurable activities to be enjoyed. There are well-developed mountain bike tracks in the park which are frequented by cyclists who want to ride while enjoying the sights of the forest park.

Another wonderful way to spend a day in Dumfries is by visiting the Dumfries Museum which stands above the town on top of a small hill. Interesting fossil footprints by prehistoric reptiles can be found here as well as tools of the early occupants of the region. Carvings by the first Christians in Scotland can also be found in this museum. The Theatre Royal is also a must-see which is the oldest working theater in Scotland.

If you want to experience a vacation that is filled with the sights of nature and with the richness of culture, Dumfries, Scotland is the best place to be.

May 26, 2010 at 11:06 pm | No comment

Rustavi


Downtown Area of Rustavi, Georgia
Photo by: wiki, Creative Commons

Rustavi, Georgia is a city that is situated 16 miles southeast of Georgia. Rustavi was known before as Bostan-Kalaki. A city that was first founded in 1948, Rustavi took its name from a nearby ancient town that was destroyed by the Tamerlane Mongol leader. Since then, it became the central for industrial products for the Transcaucasus region. Rustavi is also considered as one of Georgia’s ancient cities that play a vital role in history. The main industrial activity of this city is in iron smelting which first emerged in 1941. This ancient town is also rich in culture and colorful traditions. Until now, Rustavi still performs high quality national and diverse cultural dances. Showing a display of excellent costumes, well elaborate choreography and skilled performers, this traditional dance displays both vivacity and superb colors which really brings out the beauty of their dancers.

Rustavi was actually rebuilt as a major industrial city during the times of the Soviet Union. Its development was part of Stalin’s progressive industrialization campaign that included ironworks, chemical plants and steel factories. Today only three iron plants remain active out of the 118 before.

Rustavi is more famously known internationally for its superb dancing performance and performers. Rustavi’s dance performance includes the following major world venues: Royal Albert Hall, Herodes on the Acropolis, the Olympic Stadium in Olympia Greece, in North Bay Arts in Canada, Frits Philips Eindhoven in Netherlands and many more.

May 26, 2010 at 12:17 pm | 1 comment

Osorno

A view of the ocean with Volcán Osorno in the background.

Photo by: queulat00, Creative Commons

There can be no other way to describe the city of Osorno other than a bustling and wonderful place to visit. Travelers will surely not say no to a city that sits just near Volcano Osorno. And indeed, though this is the oldest place in Chile, many are still claiming to have found this city remarkably attractive and tourist-friendly.

From then until today, Osorno has become the home to the largest cattle and dairy industry in the entire country of Chile. Aside from this, tourism is also being welcomed by the city with generosity. From places of attraction, culture, foods, people to its weather, tourists will surely see this city as lovely point of destination.

Attractions

Osorno’s number one tourist destination is the Puyehue National Park. This park offers its guests beautiful forests, pristine lakes, preserves, and wildlife. Besides this great nature treat for visitors, there is also the Volcano Osorno. It is a minor yet active volcano, which is better known because of the hot springs. The Puyehue Hot Spring is famous to tourists and locals alike. This is because not only of the unique waters but as well as its location of being adjacent to the national park.

Celebrations

The city has a very rich culture of feasts and celebrations. Here in Osorno, they annually host the Festival de la Came y la Leche or the Milk and Meat Festival. This is a music feast that is being held every January. The main attraction on this festival is the performances of national bands and singers. On the other hand, they also host the Country Folk Festival during February. If you get to see this, you can appreciate more of the city because of regional folk artists’ performances.

Transportation

Transportation is never a problem here in this city. It houses an airport, which is the Canal Bajo Carlos Hott Siebert Airport. Buses are also available here daily. Plus, the Cardinal Antonio Samore Pass makes Osorno the gateway to and from Argentina. Indeed, there can be no problem getting here in Osorno as well as going out of the city.

Truly, with all these generous offerings of Osorno to tourists, there is no wonder why it is tagged as a tourist-friendly city. The city houses comfortable and elegant hotels to give you the best hospitality and accommodations. Plus, there are many convenient shops along the city where you can grab some souvenirs from the trip. So now, why say no to a destination like Osorno, Chile?

May 25, 2010 at 10:13 pm | No comment

Masvingo


Great Zimbabwe Ruins in Masvingo
Photo by: ctsnow , Creative Commons

Masvingo is a town located in the south eastern part of Zimbabwe. The town was founded in 1890 and is the oldest colonial settlement in the country. It was once called Fort Victoria. There are many sights to see in Masvingo, but there are two main attractions that lure tourists the most: The Great Zimbabwe and the Lake Mutirikwe.
Great Zimbabwe

Also known as the Great Zimbabwe National monument is the site of numerous ruins that lie near the town. It is a very important historical treasure in Zimbabwe and is a major historical monument in the world. Some of the huts and buildings are said to have been constructed during the 11th century by the ancestors of the Shona people. There are many granite walls all around Great Zimbabwe but there is one that stands out: the Great Enclosure. It has walls that extend more than 800 feet.

Lake Mutirikwe
The lake is located inside the Lake Mutirikwe National Park east of Masvingo. There are various species of wildlife in the National Park, particularly birds. It is estimated that there are at least 250 species of bird that can be seen in the park. There are also a handful of aquatic wildlife like hippos, crocodiles and various species of fishes. The lake is an ideal location for water activities such as fly fishing, water skiing and kayaking.

Aside from these two attractions, there are other tourist spots in Masvingo:

• Chamavar Caves – You can view authentic paintings made by the Bushmen.
• Mushandike Sanctuary – Is quite a unique sanctuary. You can see the wildlife being fed and tended personally inside the sanctuary.
• Pokoteke Gorge – A deep gorge in the Beza range. Truly an amazing sight.

May 25, 2010 at 9:47 pm | No comment

Liverpool


Liverpool from over the Mersey at Birkenhead
Photo by: dean_dave, Creative Commons

Liverpool England is a city that is known to have a rich cultural heritage. Being the birthplace of the Beatles, thousands of fans flock to the city annually just to get a glimpse of the city where the Beatles developed into the musical icons that they are now. But a trip down memory lane into Beatles history isn’t the only thing that Liverpool can offer you. With its new façade of modern buildings and a newer outlook towards the future, you can expect the city to flourish even more in the years to come.

As it is located on the Mersey River, Liverpool is considered to have one of the most interesting ports in the world. It is believed to have bid farewell to millions of immigrants who left for the United States, so if you’re an American with an English heritage, your ancestors would have likely left the country from the Mersey docks. If you want to know more about the history of these docks, then head on to the Merseyside Maritime Museum and explore the different galleries that are on display.

Some architectural gems that you shouldn’t miss include the Royal Liver Building and the St. George’s hall. These buildings not only symbolize the past glory days of Liverpool, but its undying spirit as well. You should also pay a visit to the Croxteth Hall and Country Park, which is one of Liverpool’s most famous heritage sites. Here you’ll get a chance to see what a country estate used to look like in the olden days, complete with a historic hall, a Victorian walled garden and the Croxteth home farm. Make sure to visit the West Derby courthouse, as it is one of the oldest buildings in Liverpool that still exists to this day.

Lastly, Your Liverpool holiday will never be complete without taking a step into the Beatles Story. This museum boasts of having the largest collection of Beatles artifacts and memorabilia in the world. If you’re into classical music then visit the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Hall. Even if they’re not open for shows, you can still enjoy the music as you take a sip of your drink at the philharmonic pub, just a few steps away from the grand orchestra hall.

May 25, 2010 at 11:06 am | 2 comments

Kabale


View of Volcanic Mountain Lake from Kabale, Uganda.
Photo by: zeroexposure, Creative Commons

The city of Kabale, Uganda opens the doors to the great African outdoors. This small market town is considered to be Uganda’s transportation hub as its main road leads out of the Ugandan capital of Kampala, right down to the border towards Rwanda and Congo. Taking this main road will take you through magnificent rolling hills towards major outdoor tourist attractions. The most famous of these outdoor adventure spots are Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the Mgahinga National Park. These two parks are known for regular gorilla watching tours. These gorilla watching tours are tightly controlled and are limited to only to a few trips. If you are thinking of including this activity on your Ugandan vacation, you have to book your tour at least three months before your scheduled trip. It is also advisable to bring jungle boots and rain jackets to allow you to navigate through the wet ground with ease. Even though Uganda is generally hot and dry, Kabala can be quite cool and wet because of its altitude. Kabale is very dry and dusty from July to September.

Another tourist attraction you can visit in Kabale is Lake Bunyonyi. You can easily get from Kampala to the lake through Kabale. There are a host of tourist facilities that are available in Lake Bunyonyi. If you are taking the trip via private transportation, you have to be careful when driving through the steep roads to the lake especially if the road is wet. You can try walking to the lake from Kabale but it takes about two to three hours to get there. Another route you can opt for is to wait for the public transport at the junction to the lake. Spending the night in Kabale is not unusual for most tourists. There are many interesting places where you can find accommodations in Kabale. After a restful night, you can wake up to a misty morning to start off your outdoor adventure.

May 23, 2010 at 11:42 pm | No comment

Dangriga

The coastline of Dangriga, Belize.

Photo by: martijnmunneke , Creative Commons

Located in the southern part of Belize is the small town of Dangriga. This small town is considered an ideal tourist destination for those who wish to get to know a bit more about the locals and the culture of the country. You will find that there are many friendly locals in Dangriga who will be very happy to show you around the area and to help you understand the region you are visiting.

To get to Dangriga in Belize, you can take flights from Belize City via Maya Island Air or Tropic Air since these regional carriers do have a few flights heading to these areas of the country every few hours or so. You can also choose to go by bus or by boat, which also have transport services that go to this region of Belize every so often.

Tourists that take the time to visit Dangriga will find that they can see more of the town and get more of a feel for the place if they walk around. Take the taxi only if you are going to the airport or up north. There are a number of places of interest that you may want to explore in Dangriga and these include several marketplaces and craft centers like the Austin Rodriguez Workshop and GB Novelties. You can also find a treasure trove of local items at the Open Air market and find wonderful paintings by Benjamin Nicholas in his studio which is located in this town. If you are into hot sauces, you might enjoy a tour of Marie Sharp’s Factory which is also found in this town. They produce jams, chutneys and hot sauces made from local fruits and produce.

May 23, 2010 at 8:43 pm | No comment

Mar de Plata

Club de pescadores, Mar de Plate, Argentina

Photo by: ojota , Creative Commons

Mar de Plata is a very large city popular for its beaches that easily get crowded with tourists and portenos during the summer months. Located four hundred kilometers south of Buenos Aires; Mar de Plata can be accessed by air, by road, or even by train.

Attractions You Should Not Miss

Historic Homes

Mar de Plata serves as host for tons of well preserved historic homes. Expect to see buildings with assorted designs and materials and also expect to be amazed in seeing beautiful and historical Victorian summerhouses.

Museo del Mar

Here you will see thousands of shell collections from all around the world. Museo del Mar also hosts a tidal pool exhibit which is still a must see, even on a rainy day. Large aquariums are also located here displaying fish from al around the world.

Zoologico el Paraiso

The Zoologico el Paraiso is an eight hectare park with over three hundred different species of exotic and domestic animals that roam free in the area. Tours, both day and night, are available and can be easily be acquired from tourists packages.

The Beaches

The beaches are the main attraction in Mar de Plata. Waikiki beach, Punta Iglesia, and Playa Grande are just three of the most popular beaches you can go to.

Theater Shows

Theatre shows are plentiful in Mar de Plata. Making reservations is a must especially during tourist season, as these shows can easily get fully booked.

Things You Need to Know

• Taxis in Mar de Plata cost five dollars (US) per four kilometers. Taxis are actually very numerous in the area and most drivers are quite accommodating and honest.

• Mar de Plata is actually a safe place where you can walk to get to your destination. The entire area has sidewalks that are secure, beautiful, and well lit during the night.

• Tourist season in Mar del Plata is during the summer months. Fewer tourists come during the rainy seasons but it still is wise to make reservations and acquire tour packages to save on time and money.

• Getting early to the beach will be your solution if you are not a fan of crowds. Also, some locals have a tradition of kicking sand on your blanket or even on your face so just be cool with it.

• There are over five hundred hotels in Mar de Plata but these hotels easily get full during the summer months. Make sure you get a reservation to ensure you will have a room you can enjoy.

May 22, 2010 at 8:24 pm | No comment

Vohemar

Visiting Madagascar is definitely one of the viable choices of tourists when they are thinking of taking a vacation to other countries. Fortunately, the country also has one place in its own realm that is not only a viable choice, but is also a must-visit place – Vohemar.

Vohemar remains to be a land in which technology and modernization hasn’t fully taken over. Although the town’s authorities are starting to find a way on how Vohemar is going to catch up with such phenomenon, they still place much importance in their beautiful lands and natural resources. This is why tourists should come to this town if they want to get close with nature, not to mention that the town is definitely one of Madagascar’s defining features.

The town has means of providing resources for its people. The majority of the citizens in the area farm for a living, so tourists should expect to see farms and barns all throughout town.

In addition to these things, the people in Vohemar are very welcoming. They believe that everyone including people who do not originate from their culture are brothers and sisters, despite not being related by blood.

These features of Vohemar are more than enough reasons for tourists to visit the area and witness the traditions and culture that take place here. Madagascar is truly blessed to have Vohemar on its map.

May 22, 2010 at 6:01 pm | No comment

Zomba


The garden of Chancellor College at the University of Malawi
Photo by: icemannorth, Creative Commons

Aside from the capital city of Lilongwe in Malawi, the country definitely has some other cities that offer the same tourism excitement for those travelers who like to enjoy what Africa has. One of these places is Zomba.
The defining feature of this place, aside from the warm welcomes of the people in the area, would have to be the Zomba Plateau.

The Zomba Plateau can be approached by foot, especially if the tourists are eager to find out the details that make up this wonderful place. With thick forest and clean streams of water that runs across the grassland, tourists will definitely feel this place is the closest to what they look for in getting close with nature.

The majority of the plateau area is being managed by the Department of Forestry in Malawi. They make sure that the area is well-kept from opposing forces like the over development.

Animals also roam the area, which is a nice thing since the place itself is a haven for wildlife.

Tourists will definitely enjoy staying in Zomba, especially if their purpose is to relax and enjoy their free time away from the bustling life in the city.

May 22, 2010 at 2:16 pm | No comment

Linz


A busy street in Linz, Austria.

Photo by: spullara, Creative Commons

Being the third largest city in Austria has brought Linz to almost the same level of prestige and international status as the cities of Salzburg and Vienna. It certainly has the advantage of being easily accessible with its good transportation network. Linz, Austria is conveniently connected to the two major cities along a rail line. It also has the reputation of having the largest port that is accessible from the Danube River. Furthermore, a highly efficient bus line network is available within the city boundaries for visitors to explore the city’s treats for the sense of sight, sound and smell with much ease.

Linz, Austria has a great selection of visual attractions for travelers that range from the medieval to the modern era. Saint Martin’s Church is definitely one such attraction. It was built way back in 799 AD under the order of King Charlemagne. Another church built under a different historical period is the Saint Mary’s Cathedral. This church is reputed to be the largest in the country and was constructed in 1864 with French High Gothic design, which gives it a highly appealing edifice and overall structure. More modern structures such as the Gugl Stadium and the Linzer Landestheater make up the amazing visual landscape that can only belong to Linz.

For tourists looking for good music will be happy to note that Classical music performances are regularly scheduled at a concert hall called the Linz Brucknerhaus

Other attractions to enjoy include the Botanical Gardens in Linz. This facility maintains thousands of species of flowers and plants that bloom at various times of the year. Natural scents vary within the facility at springtime, summer time and autumn.

Also tourists can feed their minds by visiting the many museums and art galleries that feature testaments to the rich heritage of the city.

These are just some of the many interesting places and activities that tourists in Linz, Austria can take advantage of regardless of the seasons or the reasons for visiting.

May 20, 2010 at 8:01 pm | No comment