Japan is an island country and part of East Asia situated in the Pacific Ocean. It is known as the “Land of the Rising Sun” and officially called Nippon or Nihon. The characters of the name of the country mean “sun-origin”. There are 6,852 islands making up the entire archipelago. The four major islands are Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu, and Shikoku. The islands are mainly mountainous and there are many volcanoes in the region. The capital city is Tokyo and is one of the most populated cities with an estimated population of 30 million inhabitants and considered the biggest urban area in the world. The government of Japan is made up of a unitary constitutional monarchy headed by an emperor and a duly elected parliament known as the Diet.

The flag of Japan is formally called Nisshoki meaning sun-mark flag but it is generally known as Hinomaru meaning “sun disc”. It has a plain white rectangular filed with a red circle in the center. The red circle represents the sun. This flag is known as the sun-disc flag and was known as the default national flag even before a law regarding a national flag was established.

The Japanese national flag was designated by their constitution on August 13, 1999. The brief history of the flag has its origin in two edicts of the Daijō-kan in the early Meiji Era. The Daijō-kan is a government organization who decreed two proclamations stating that the sun-disc flag is to be used as a flag for merchant ships and the flag used by the navy. In the years of American occupation of Japan, the use of the sun-disc flag was constrained but later the limitations were eased. In early Japanese history, the symbol of Hinomaru was used by daimyos and samurais in their banners. During Meiji Restoration, the Hinomaru and the Rising Sun Ensign of the Imperial Japanese Navy were the principal emblems of the Japanese empire.

Pikes Peak Mountain from Garden of the Gods Park, located in Colorado Springs
Photo by: Beverly & Pack, Creative Commons

Located near the geographical center of the State of Colorado, the city of Colorado Springs lies near the base of Pikes Peak at the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains. The city is just a little bit higher above sea level than the mile-high state capital of Denver. It is the second most populous city in Colorado.

As the home of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and a host of other military facilities, the city of Colorado Springs owes much of its growth and development to the United States military.

The city was founded as a mountain resort town in 1871, with the tall mountain of Pikes Peak and the nearby Garden of the Gods – an area of impressive geological formations – as the primary attractions. A gold rush at Pikes Peak and the subsequent gold and silver mining operations turned Colorado Springs into a booming mining town. When the minerals ran out, the city’s economy followed suit. Its economy was boosted by the establishment of military training camps and bases in the area during the Second World War.

Fort Carson and Peterson Air Force Base, evolutions of the old bases, are still in operation in the city. The United States Air Force Academy, with its iconic Cadet Chapel, can also be found in the city. The establishment of NORAD in nearby Cheyenne Mountain during the Cold War permanently cemented the military’s presence in the area.

Besides all the military facilities in the area, Colorado Springs is still a place to go to see the beauty of nature. Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods are joined by many other attractions such as Seven Falls in Cheyenne Canyon and the Cave of the Winds. Visitors may also visit the enigmatic Manitou Cliff Dwellings where the Anasazis lived before they suddenly vanished.

The People’s Republic of China’s strict communist upbringing is perfectly portrayed by its national emblem – a symbol of courage, boldness, strength and vivaciousness that is predominant in the Chinese blood. Living out the Maoist philosophies of life and bringing about a culture that paved the way for economic dominance, military strength and cultural preservation, the Chinese have evidently risen to become a world superpower. With its staggering 1.3 billion people, the challenge of bringing together everyone towards a sense of nationalism and pride in the motherland was a task that China did not discount many years ago.

To materialize the desire to come up with a strong national symbol, the government mandated the Preparatory Committee of the New Political Consultative Conference in July of 1949 to take on the task of soliciting design ideas for the national insignia. A nationwide campaign searching for quality designs that exhibited at least three main components: Chinese components like geography, culture, arts and the like; Power attributes like strength, courage and resilience; and that the color must be dominantly bright red.

After successfully drawing together about 3,000 designs from all over the country, Zeng Liansong’s slightly edited entry was hailed to be the official flag of the great nation. Zeng’s artistic ideas were inspired by an article written by Mao Zedong, Chinese prime leader, national strategist and visionary. The bright red plain was carefully disturbed by five stars – four equal sized smaller stars forming a curve to the right side of a bigger fifth star.

The positioning suggested that the four social classes of China formed a united bond under the Communist Party of China. The stars also could represent the territory of China including Outer Mongolia forming an implication of the Begonia Leaf. After removing the hammer and sickle on the big star as was in Zeng’s original design and much persuasion from Mao himself, the flag was adopted on September of 1949.

Tower Bridge in Sacramento
Photo by: Fir0002, Creative Commons

Sacramento is the capital of California. It is where the American River and the Sacramento River meet. It is known that it had humble beginnings as a group of small towns came together. It had a small population until gold was discovered in 1849. From then on, Sacramento’s settlement grew since miners and other gold seekers descended upon the city from all over the world. It is commonly nicknamed as the City of Trees since is has an impressive number of tree lined pathways and vibrant greenery. Today, Sacramento is one of the most rapidly growing cities known for its charming Victorian houses and perfectly built bungalows.

If you love to take a stroll, you may choose to walk along the boardwalk style sidewalks. For those who enjoy a more old country feel, carriages are available for your touring pleasure. If you absolutely like the outdoors, Sacramento could be your new found haven. You could go rafting, fishing, and boating if you thrive to be in the water. A popular must see is the American River. You can explore the city’s history and culture by visiting Sacramento’s museums, art galleries, and souvenir boutiques.

The must stops are the Crocker Art Museum and the California State Indian Museum. When it comes to food, you must not miss to try one of the city’s restaurants. Here, you can enjoy succulent local dishes combined with a laid back style and casual dining atmosphere.

The Sacramento Zoo is a venue where you can get in touch with rare exotic wildlife. Children will surely never forget their visit here. The night life in Sacramento has its own following so if you want to party, you’re welcome to try one of the many bars in the city.

The Shakespeare Festival is one of the highly anticipated events in Sacramento. During this time of the year, Shakespearean plays are being enacted complete with all the grand costumes and props.

Downtown Harrison
Photo by: Photolitherland, Creative Commons

The picturesque city of Harrison is the seat of Boone County, Arkansas. The first inhabitants of this area are thought to be the Buff Dwellers, Indians who lived in caves near the rivers. As time passed different tribes occupied the area until the Cherokees arrived in the 1800s. The Cherokees were hostile towards the Osage tribe who at the time resided in Harrison, leading to a full blown Indian war in the Ozarks. (more…)

The Algerian flag consists of two equal parts; the left side with a green shade and a white shade on the right. The center of the flagdisplays red star inside a red crescent. The color green signifies the nature’s beauty; the color white, peace; the color red, blood of those who were killed fighting for freedom; and the star and crescent moon represents Islam faith.

The Algerian flag was adopted on July 3, 1962. The same design of the flag was also used when the government was in exile from 1958 to 1962. The only difference between the flag today and the flag back on Algeria’s exile days was the white part of the flag is evidently bigger than the green one. The flag design was inspired by the standard of Emir Abdel Kadir in the 1900s.

It consisted two equal vertical bands which was green and white. The flag that was used from the 16th to the 19th century was also the inspiration of the current flag of Algeria. The history of the flag is still not clear to people because it was told that the creation of the flag was in 1928 by Messali Hadj. He was a nationalist leader. The white, green and red, with the star and the crescent have been used by almost all countries with Islam beliefs.

The flag of Algeria can be distinguished alongside the other flags because of the crisp green that it entails. Even though it has a crescent moon and the red star that connotes the religion of Islam, which is widely used by the countries with the said faith, the equally proportioned green band on the left side of the flag and the color white on the right side of the flag are the determining factor for the flag.

Bucking Bronco Statue in downtown Denver
Photo by: Billy Hathorn, Creative Commons

Located exactly one mile above sea level on the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, the city of Denver perfectly fits its moniker as the “Mile-High City”.

Now why would anyone found a city one mile high up in the mountains? The answer is simple: Gold. The city of Denver was founded as a mining town during a gold rush in the area in the 1800s, making it one of the few cities in the history of the world that was not built on a road or near a navigable body of water. Nevertheless, the city has become a key trade point and distribution center for the United States, owing to its location in the center of the country. Geography has played a major role in making Denver an important government, trade, and communications center for the country.

The capital and most populous city of the US State of Colorado plays host to a lot of different attractions for visitors of all ages. Over 200 parks dot the city today, a far cry from the dusty roads of the old mining town. The sprawling Denver Zoo, considered the fourth most popular zoo in the United States, has 3,500 animals in its collection. 685 species are represented, including 157 that are endangered.

The 23-acre Denver Botanical Garden contains a collection of more than 2,000 species of plants in 45 different gardens. Both the Zoo and the Botanical Garden make the city a great place to visit for nature lovers. Children will enjoy looking at the mounted dinosaur fossils, dioramas, exhibits, and experiments at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. The Denver Art Museum contains more than enough examples of art from Native Americans and Europeans to keep art aficionados busy for a very long time. Finally, visitors will be able to stand exactly one mile high above sea level on the western steps of the Colorado State Capitol.

California Adventure Sun Wheel at night in Anaheim
Photo by: LordBleen, Creative Commons

Anaheim, California is one of the cities that make up Orange County. Many have the impression that Anaheim is a rural area. They could never be more wrong. On the contrary, Anaheim is the richest and largest city in Orange County. It is also one of the most rapidly developing cities in California. Its central location makes it accessible to many and an ideal place for a vacation.

Anaheim was founded by Americans of German descent in 1857, as it was intended to be a cooperative agricultural community. Before, citrus and walnut groves decorated its vast landscape. Today, it is known for various industries such as plastic products, consumer goods, computer and electrical equipment, and many others. Today, it is still popular for its citrus fruits production. It is also a popular convention destination. The Anaheim Convention Centre is the venue for many international conferences and events.

Anaheim’s most important industry is tourism. Ever since Disneyland opened and started its operation in 1959, it became the city’s major employer. Other visitor attractions include the Anaheim Canyon Business Park, which is the largest industrial district in Orange County as well as the Anaheim Resort and the Anaheim Hills. Other popular destinations include the Arrowhead Pond, the Sun theatre, Aquarium of the Pacific, as well as the House of Blues. Shopping is also an enjoyable experience in Anaheim. Local products and as well as some of the world’s notable brands can be found in at least one of these shopping areas: Anaheim Indoor Marketplace, The Block at Orange, and the Anaheim Plaza Shopping Centre.

Festivals are common in this city. If you want to make most out of your visit, you could schedule your arrival during any of these festivities. There’s Cinco de Mayo and Greek Festival every May; Halloween festival in October; and Nutcracker Festival in December. Merriment is a sure way to give you a taste of the city’s rich culture.

One of the many parks in Watkins Glen
Photo by: Brian Adler, Creative Commons

Watkins Glen is best known for its racing tracks. If you are a racing enthusiast or just a curious one, then dropping by at the Watkins Glen International Speedway, more popularly dubbed as The Glen is going to be a fun experience. It has been the home of racing for years. Watkins Glen is also the home of International Motor Racing Research Center. With these, you can already picture how fun and exciting this village in New York is.

Aside from the thrill of experiencing Watkins Glen, you can also enjoy the serene parks in the village. One of the most recommended parks is the Watkins Glen State Park. You can camp there and enjoy with the whole family. You can bring your toddlers and let them freely roam around the area. The waterfall trail is also one of the majestic things you will get to see if you pay a visit to this State park. It is the best way to appreciate the real beauty of nature. One of the most famous is the Gorge Trail. Hiking has never been that easy and relaxing if you chose to hike in the place. Everything you will pass through, whether it’s beautiful tress or plants or the falls is going to be simply breathtaking.

Another place that you might want to visit is the Castel Grisch and enjoy the wine. Aside from the experience of getting to see and even taste good wines, the view is also another treat for visitors. The staffs from the different wineries are approachable and friendly too. Whether you are up for the wine or just for the view, the Castel Grisch of Watkins Glen is a good place to visit. Both you and your partner, along with a child will surely have fun there.

Downtown Aspen
Photo by: Ben & Whitney Carey, Creative Commons

Named for the many aspen trees in the area, the city of Aspen in Colorado, U.S.A is a prime ski resort and visitor center widely known as a playground and vacation spot for the rich and the famous. Originally founded as a mining town, Aspen can be found in the Roaring Fork Valley along the Roaring Fork River. The city is surrounded by Red Mountain on the north, Smuggler Mountain on the east, and Aspen Mountain to the south.

Nestled nearly 8,000 feet high in the Rocky Mountains, the city is home to four major ski areas called Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass, and Buttermilk. There is something for every kind of skier in the four areas. Buttermilk is more for the beginner, as it has easier terrain and is home to a highly-rated skiing school.

This area has also been the site of the Winter X Games as it has proven to be very snowboarder-friendly. Snowmass is the largest area, and is considered as the most family-friendly. Both Aspen Mountain and Aspen Highlands are known for their steep terrain, making them good places for more experienced skiers.

Visitors not inclined to go skiing or snowboarding can go ice skating in the city’s skating rink, hike along the many mountain trails, or just simply enjoy the majestic view of the surrounding mountain peaks. In the summer, visitors may also go rafting in the nearby river or they could fish for trout or other fish. They may also go biking up in the mountains or along the many trails which in winter also serve as ski trails.

Downtown Aspen provides an upscale shopping district with high-end boutiques offering products from Prada, Gucci, Ralph Lauren, and many others. There are also many restaurants and salons. Visitors may also visit historic landmarks like the wheeler Opera House or view the collections of nearby art galleries.

Bakersfield Street Clock
Photo by: Renjishino, Creative Commons

Bakersfield is an old fashioned community which is perhaps mostly known for its music—the Berkeley Sound. It is country music with its own unique sound and is at the very heart of this city’s life. In fact, live bands perform nightly at the local bars. The weather here is very hot during summer and chilly during winter. Clear and sunny skies can be enjoyed during summer. Bakersfield is also reputed to have the worst fog in all of West Coast, with visibilities dropping to zero.

Bakersfield is home to many recreational activities. You could go white water rafting and have an exhilarating aquatic experience. You could also try boating and fishing. Boat and watercraft rentals are available for tour purposes. If you are up for the challenge, you could go skiing at Shirley Meadows. Or you could just enjoy Shirley’s amazing scenery. Riverside courses that line up along the trees are available for golf enthusiasts. One of the popular ones is the Kern River Golf Course.

If a long drive is what you fancy, maybe you’ll love a mountain forest drive so you may enjoy a great view of the city’s rugged landscape. For those who feel like trying their luck, there are also some casinos in Bakersfield. The Eagle Mountain Casino and Golden West Casino would welcome you with flair.

Sightseeing is also popular in Bakersfield. There are galleries, arts museum, amusement parks, historical and national parks, and festivals. Sequoia & King’s Canyon National Park is surely worth the trip. Country music lovers would love a trip to Buck Owen’s Crystal Palace a music venue that pays tribute to Bakersfield Sound. Live performances are at the heart of Bakersfield culture. Make sure to never leave without visiting a local bar or a music lounge.

Wailuku River entering Pacific Ocean
Photo by: kewl, Creative Commons

Wailuku is a census-designated place (a place designated by the census bureau for statistical purposes and has no form of municipal government of its own) and is the capital of Maui County, Hawaii. It is located in the Kahului-Wailuku metropolitan area and its name is Hawaiian for “water of destruction”.

The town used to be the main destination in Maui in the early 20th century until it was overshadowed by nearby resort towns. But for those who prefer to rest in the town itself, there is The Old Wailuku Inn at Ulupono, which is located at Kahookele Street.

History buffs will get a kick out of Wailuku, as it is home to several historical sites.

Ka’ahumanu Church was named after Queen Ka’ahumanu, an early convert to Christianity, who requested that a church be built in her name. The request was granted in 1876. Today, Sunday services are conducted here, with hymns and invocation done in the Hawaiian language.

The Wailuku Civic Center Historic District is a group of five buildings that currently house both the governmental offices of Maui County and the State of Hawaii. They were designed and built from 1901 to 1931 by architect C. W. Dickey.

The Chee Kung Tong Society Building was formerly a society hall for Chinese immigrants and was built in 1905. It was then converted into a dormitory in 1928 until years of neglect led to its collapse in 1996.

The Bailey House Museum was formerly a seminary and was built in 1833. Funding problems forced the seminary to shut down in 1847 and was then made part of a sugar plantation. Today, the house hosts several pre-colonial artifacts, paintings, and snail shells.

The Haleki’i-Pihana Heiau State Monument is home to two ancient heiau, or temples. Pihana is the older heiau, dating from the 11th century, and Haleki’i was built two centuries later.

Wailuku is the place to be if you want to learn more about the rich history of Hawaii.

White County courthouse in Searcy
Photo by: ers.usda.gov, Creative Commons

“Pride, Progress and Potential” is the motto of Searcy. This city is located in White County, Arkansas and has a population of 20,000. The city was named after Judge Richard Searcy who was an Arkansas Pioneer. One interesting nugget of trivia is that Judge Searcy died before he even knew that the city was named after him. (more…)

Buffalo Skyline
Photo by: John Shillabeer, Creative Commons

Dubbed as the most populous area in the whole of New York, Buffalo sure has a lot to offer to both locals and visitors. Of course you must have heard of the Niagara Falls State Park. It is open for everyone who would love to go biking, hiking, fishing and even skiing. There’s also the Visitor’s Center, Observation Tower and Niagara Falls Discovery Center that you can all explore with the whole family or with your friends. If you are a nature lover, this is perfect for you. You can see for yourself the amazing and breathtaking scenery. It isn’t the top visitor destination for nothing.

If, on the other hand, you also want to experience a memorable night in the streets of Buffalo, you have a lot of choices. One of the most famous night life districts is West Chippewa District. Unlike other places in the US, the last call in Buffalo is 4AM so there is more time to spend and enjoy the fun. If you want to experience of people of Buffalo celebrate festivities, you might want to drop a visit when they hold festivals.

One of the famous festivals which both locals and visitors enjoy is the Allentown Art Festival. It happens on the second weekend of June. The St. Patrick’s Day parade is one event when people have loads of fun. The people paint the whole town in green and just have fun altogether on the streets.

There are also galleries which can cater the art enthusiast in you. If you want to see modern and contemporary arts, you should definitely visit Albright-Knox Art Gallery. The place holds world class pieces of arts which one can really enjoy and admire. And o course, the architecture of the buildings in Buffalo are works of art already.

Downtown Berkeley and San Francisco just across
Photo by: Introvert, Creative Commons

Berkeley offers a variety of activities for locals and foreigners alike. It is situated at the northern end of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. Despite a fast growing number of industries within and around the city, it managed to maintain its charming “small town” reputation. Among it many landmarks, and perhaps the most famous, is the University of California. It is a bubbly city, which has evolved into a cultural and culinary district. It is filled with unbeatable shopping destinations, world class restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Berkeley’s culture is rich and vast, and there are many venues to enrich one’s creativity in this city. But what is considered as the heart of the Berkeley life is food. Berkeley is a city known to be passionate when it comes to food that’s why locals are so proud and the tourist just keep coming back to savor more of their cuisines. Baking enthusiasts would love a visit at Spun Sugar, which offers classes on baking, cake decorating and candy making. Rare and exotic baking ingredients and supplies are also available here. If you love olive oil, visit Stonehouse Olive oil, which produces and bottles California’s Olive oil.

The outdoors in this city is so promising that one will never ran out of things to try and enjoy. Biking and hiking trails go around the bay and into the city’s amazing landscape. The more adventurous types will enjoy rock climbing, kayaking, skateboarding, and windsurfing. The more laidback ones will surely love a stroll at Berkeley’s beautiful gardens and lush vegetation. If you love outdoor shopping, there are family farm markets here that are so festive in atmosphere and has a wide array of choices of local products that you wouldn’t want to leave. One of these is the Monterey farm located on North Berkeley.

Surrounded by three airports, and situated so conveniently in the San Francisco Bay area, you can practically get here any way you want.

Lihue Airport
Photo by: exfordy, Creative Commons

Lihue is a census-designated place (a place designated by the census bureau for statistical purposes and has no form of municipal government of its own) and the capital of both the county and island of Kauai in Hawaii. In the Hawaiian language, the name means “cold chill”.

Fittingly enough, Lihue as a capital is home to Kauai’s only airport, Lihue Airport, as well as its main seaport, Nawiliwili Harbor; making the town both a popular entry point and a center of commerce on the island. The origin can be traced to Lihue becoming the site of several sugar mills and plantations from an ancient minor village in the early 17th century, and then turning into a haven for German immigrants in the late 18th century. Rapid industrialization followed, and is today the site of hotels, major chain stores, car dealerships, and restaurants; as well as the Kukui Grove Center, the island’s largest shopping center. It is also the home of the Kauai Museum, which is dedicated to Kauai’s rich history.

For those who are getting uncomfortable with urbanization, Lihue offers a natural facade. Kalapaki Beach is a testament to Lihue’s emerald waters and is a popular swimming spot; and luaus (Hawaiian-styled parties) can be enjoyed at the sites of former sugar plantations such as Kilohana Plantation. Ninini Point Lighthouse was built to serve Nawiliwili Harbor and is a good spot for those who want to view Kalapaki from above, as the beach and the harbor are located next to each other. Fish lovers need not look further than Alekoko (Menehune) Fishpond, a huge aquaculture facility that was built in a single moonlit night, according to legend. Outside of Lihue, you can witness Wailua Falls, with its stones facilitating the waters falling from a height of 80 feet.

Lihue has two sides: one urban, one natural. Make your trip worth it by enjoying both sides.

Laie Point Cliffs
Photo by: jdnx, Creative Commons

Laie is located in Koolauloa District on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. The name is of Hawaiian origin and it means “the leaf of a red-spiked climbing screwpine”. The tree is endemic to the mountain range that is located near the town.

The town is known as the spiritual center of the Hawaiian community of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, or the Mormons, as it is the site of the Laie Hawaii Temple, the fifth oldest Mormon temple in the world. The temple was the headquarters of the LDS in Hawaii beginning November 27, 1919. Many years have passed and the HQ was moved to Honolulu, and the temple had undergone renovation until it was reopened November 22, 2010.

Laie is also a melting pot of both native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander culture; as its several feasts and fundraisers, as well as Brigham Young University Hawaii’s Polynesian Cultural Center (the state’s largest living museum), are continually drawing visitors and inspiring artists.

The town’s coastline is made prominent by Laie Point, a dune overlooking the Pacific Ocean to the east. It also sports three beaches: Laie Beach Park, Pounders Beach, and Hukilau Beach. Laie Beach Park is a prominent fishing spot since John Pahumoa Kamake’e’aina, a fisherman from the late 19th century, popularized a method of community net fishing called hukilau.

Pounders Beach was named so due to the pounding shore break that provided bodysurfing rides. Hukilau Beach is another bodysurfing spot. Laie Beach Park and Hukilau Beach are located at the northern part of town; Pounders Beach is located at the southern end.

Laie is not just a good place for enjoying the beach, but it also offers a sanctuary.

Confederate Monument built 1908 in Bentonville
Photo by: Bobak Ha’eri, Creative Commons

Bentonville is most famous for being the birthplace of Wal-Mart. The first Wal-Mart Store still stands and is a physical reminder of the retail chain’s success story. It is also used as a visitor’s center and has been decorated to act as a museum displaying memorabilia from Wal-Mart’s earlier days. But other than producing one of the richest men in the country, Bentonville also has a rich heritage. (more…)

View of Brooklyn from above
Photo by: Kris Arnold, Creative Commons

Brooklyn, New York is known for having a huge population but aside from that, it is also well known for having diverse areas to offer to visitors. It doesn’t matter if you’re the museum type of visitor, or the night club type of visitor, whatever type you are, there will be somewhere for you to explore and enjoy. The neighbourhood itself is interesting enough for one to visit. The place is known for being a shelter to different ethnic groups, for people of different beliefs and outlook in life. Chinese, Jewish and many other groups reside altogether in this area of New York which makes the place even more pleasant and attractive in the eyes of an outsider.

Even if Brooklyn seems to be really crowded, there are still those places where you can find silence and where you can just sit, relax and admire. One of those places is the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. It found near the equally beautiful Prospect Park. You will enjoy the Asian feel in the garden. Have fun checking out the beautiful cherry trees, ponds, rock gardens and enjoy the smell of nature.

If you want adventure, you can visit and have fun at Coney Island. It was built for the rich and able people long time ago, but it is now open for everyone to enjoy. If you are lucky enough and you went there on the right day, you might even witness the annual hotdog eating contest. If you are going to Brooklyn in the summer, make sure to drop by Coney Island Beach and enjoy the heat of the sun.

Brooklyn is a fun place because you can enjoy it just roaming around its streets, go for a bicycle ride, people watch, go out at night with friends and meet new people. It is sure one place in New York that you would not want to miss.

Santa Barbara Mission
Photo by: Bernard Gagnon, Creative Commons

The American Riviera, Santa Barbara perhaps has the most ideal climate in all of United States. It generally experiences a breezy Mediterranean climate. Because of its nearness to the ocean, the city has warmer winters and cooler summers. Its name became so when an explorer named Sebastian Vizcaino gave in the name Santa Barbara as a tribute and show of gratitude for having been saved through a storm in 1602 on the feast of the said saint.

The County is famous for its beautiful beaches, most of which are well situated so that they offer the most sun to sea goers all throughout the day. Aside from its beaches, Santa Barbara has a unique non-uniform terrain that seems to add up to its charm. In fact, its variety in terms of topography presents many opportunities for outdoor activities and recreation. Like many cities in California, it houses an impressive number of tourist attractions.

Among the most famous ones are the Arlington Theatre, which is the largest indoor performance venue in Santa Barbara; as well as the Mission Santa Barbara, which is a well loved destination among the devotees. It also has an amphitheatre, the Santa Barbara Bowl which is situated amidst breathtaking canyons and is mostly used as a venue for outdoor concerts.

The architecture of Santa Barbara is famous all around the world. It is mostly of Spanish influence with a bit of Moorish and Mediterranean contributions. The outstanding elements are red tile roofs, white stucco surfaces, wrought iron windows, and light fixtures. Its amazing architecture can be scene on its famous structures such as the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, which features a red tiled Spanish-Moorish structure and gives a magnificent view of the downtown.

Perhaps the best time to visit here is during the city’s feast every August. During this time, young girls and beautiful young ladies have a parade where they throw different kind of flowers, especially roses, to the crowd. It is a merry time of the year and a colorful one at that.

Old Frisco Railroad Bridge in Fort Smith
Photo by: Doug Wertman, Creative Commons

Upon arrival at Fort Smith, your first destination should be Ms. Laura’s Social Club – a restored Victorian mansion that used to be a Bordello. There is no other city that preserves a former brothel as a tourist destination and even designates it as its tourism welcome center. That fact alone speaks volumes of how interesting and unique the culture and the people of Fort Smith are. (more…)

Seeing Albany for the first time?
Photo by: Karthikc123, Creative Commons

There are tons things you can do and have fun with when you are in Albany, New York. Whether you are with the kids, or with your partner in life or with your friends, there are so many things that offer so much fun and amazing experiences. You can have fun in parks and do other outdoor activities, you can enjoy the foods, you can admire art pieces in museums, you can dance the night away or you can just sit down or walk and have fun with the locals. Whatever you are up to, there sure is something somewhere for you to do.

Of course, one thing you should not miss is the New York State Museum. Both the kids and their parents will enjoy the place. It is the best place to bond and learn together as a family. Having fun and learning at the same time is a sure deal for everyone. If you want to go shopping for you and for people from back home, there is a place for you to go to. Enjoy over 200 stores at Crossgates Mall. You will not leave empty handed once you entered a mall. Shopping and dining would be even more fun if it is done one Crossgates Mall.

The Dutch Apple Cruises is also one of the most recommended things to do in Albany. Aside from the sceneries you will get to see when sight seeing, you will also going to be supplemented with facts about the important places that you will see and encounter. You can choose to sit inside or outside, you can enjoy the foods and be delighted with the friendly and approachable crews. It is one perfect way to experience and learn things about the place. Touring can never be more fun.

Bridal Veil Falls in Telluride
Photo by: Bill Lynch, Creative Commons

Telluride is considered as San Miguel County’s most populous town in years. Situated along the Southwestern part of the Colorado, Telluride became a former campsite for silver mining activities in the San Juan mountain ranges. As of 2000, the US Census Bureau estimated the town’s total population of 2,200. The American National Register of Historic Places included Telluride in their list of “Colorado’s Top 20 National Historic Landmarks” in 2001.

The town of Telluride became famous not only for its forested mountain area, but also for Bridal Veil Falls and Jet Ski jumping sites. The town also became famous for being featured prominently in the “Pop Culture” medium. For more than two decades, Telluride became the notable backdrop of many TV commercials and movies.

The town became the main subject of Tim McGraw’s compositions, Edward Abbey’s essays, and Glenn Fray’s hit song, “Smuggler’s Blues”. The town’s nearby community “Ouray” became distinguished writer Ayn Rand’s inspiration in writing books about the San Miguel County. Thomas Pynchon’s iconic masterpiece entitled “Atlas Shrugged” is said to be inspired from the historical figures that occurred in Telluride. In 1988, American writer Raymond Ring wrote a book entitled “Modern Telluride” to primarily focus on the messages pertained from Fray’s song about the Telluride Town. The Telluride Film Festival is held annually to give recognition among local residents who have gained success in the film industry. Diablo Cody, Jerry Seinfeld, Jason Schwartzman, Sean Penn and Tom Cruise were among the prominent celebrities who already attended the festival.

The Telluride Ski Resort is the town’s main tourist attraction today. Hugely recognized as an “All-Ski Resort” among tourists from around the world, the Telluride Ski Resort serves as the town’s recreation spot for outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking. The Telluride Tourism Board is the resort’s sole endorser.

Welcome to Napa
Photo by: Stan Shebs, Creative Commons

Many consider Napa to be their home away from home. Among the cities of California, this is perhaps the most ideal place for vacations and private getaways. Napa is located at the heart of California wine country. It is known for its picturesque landscape and lush vineyards that seem to go on and on.

You would never get bored in a city like Napa. Whether you just want to rest and relax on your chosen bed and breakfast, or perhaps sip a wine by the countryside, you’ll be able to find a place for you to enjoy here. For children and the young at heart, you may want to visit the Balloon Company here in Napa. Many people, especially famous ones drop by take flight on one of these colorful balloons and have a breathtaking view of the city landscape right above the skies. City tours are one of the most booked activities here in Napa.

The difference here is that, a limousine will take you on a luxurious trip to your desired destination. Since wine the very thing that made this city famous, there are plenty of ways to enjoy it here. First, you may sip your wine in the wild. Here you can absolutely experience African wildlife while indulging in fine wine. If you love biking, you may take a cycling visit to the vineyards. There are plenty of venues that welcome that. For the arts and music enthusiasts, there are museums and theatres all over the city.

Napa is also known for its fresh produce. In fact, there are numerous farm markets where you can do your daily shopping. There’s the Calistoga Farmer’s Market as well as the Chef’s market. No matter what you need from milk to vegetables and fruits to fresh meat, you won’t run out here.

Santa Monica Beach
Photo by: Kjetil Ree, Creative Commons

Surrounded by the urban sprawl of the city of Los Angeles on three sides and bounded by the waves of the Pacific Ocean on the fourth, is the city of Santa Monica, a resort town located just a very short drive away from one of the largest cities in the United States.

Visitors coming to Southern California will find Santa Monica a perfect location to base their trip. The city has plenty of accommodations and restaurant options, and is conveniently located near many major visitor attractions in the area, not to mention just a few miles away from the city of Los Angeles. The mild climate of the area – compared to that of the inland areas – keeps the city at a comfortable temperature for much of the year.

Beyond the high bluffs on the Pacific Ocean side of the city lie the beaches of Santa Monica. 3.5 miles of warm sun and sand line the coast, giving beach goers the ultimate Southern California beach experience. Visitors may go swimming and surf the warm waters of the Pacific. They may go fishing or biking or even play beach volleyball. There is also the chance to see an occasional movie shoot thanks to the beach’s proximity to the movie studios of Hollywood.

A prominent landmark on the beach is the Santa Monica Pier. Built about a hundred years ago, the Pier contains an amusement park – Pacific Park – with a large Ferris wheel, a carousel built in the 1920s, and more. Visitors may recognize the Pier from its appearance in numerous movies, TV shows, music videos, and even video games, throughout the years. On top of the bluffs overlooking the beaches lies Palisades Park, a great place to walk and to view the ocean.

Visitors can enjoy shopping in Santa Monica’s three shopping districts. Montana Avenue on the north caters to more upscale shoppers. Downtown is home to a major pedestrian-only outdoor shopping area called the Third Street Promenade. Main Street is the place to go for clothing, restaurants, and other retail products.