Bulgan


Mongolian landscape by one of the many lakes in Bulgan
Photo by: tiarescott, Creative Commons

Mongolia, located between the nations of Russia and China, is one of the few vast landlocked nations in the world where a roving life still exists. One of the popular tribe capitals in Mongolia is Bulgan. You can find a grassy park crowned with pine trees in the middle town. Because the second largest city in Mongolia is close to Bulgan, this city wasn’t given much attention for industrialization and development. A very few number of jeeps for transportations and hotels can be found in Bulgan.

The weather in Bulgan gets too hot or mostly cloudy so if you plan a travel in Bulgan do not forget to bring your sun protection garments. Among the things you should bring are sunglasses, umbrella, hats, and sun block lotion. You can visit the interesting sceneries and landscapes found in Bulgan like the desert nomads, sand dunes, and small lakes.

Going to Bulgan is not quite hard as traffic is not too heavy. You can get there by getting on a bus, a jeep or a minivan. When there are quite a lot of passengers, minivans and jeeps travel within Ulaanbaatar to Bulgan for eight hours and vise versa but usually people take the overnight one-hour trip by train from Erdenet.

You can select from the two routes going to Bulgan from Ulaanbaatar. A southern route is the more direct but you will have to go through a rough road via the city of Dashinchilen while the longer paved route in the north part is via Erdenet and Darkhan.

May 3, 2010 at 12:46 am | No comment

Borgarnes


Borgarnes fjord
Photo by: pr1001, Creative Commons

Iceland is all about contrasts – steam and snow; new and old; land and ocean. Western Iceland is the place where most tourists can witness this contrast, because it is easily accessible (thanks to the ring road of Iceland).

Borgarfjorour is a very prosperous region located at West Iceland, and Borgarnes is part of that region. It is some 30 kilometers away from Deildartunguhver, the hot spring that is the region’s largest source of geothermal power. Borgarnes makes it easier for the tourist to get to other parts of western Iceland, like the nearby places where there are excellent fishing spots and horse-riding locations, such as the beaches of Longufjorur.

Some of the places where you could take great pictures are the bridges around Borgarnes. Come to think of it, you can see great scenes from practically, anywhere. One of the major attractions of this town is a beautiful park situated right in the village. This park is where a burial mound of Skallagrimur is located. Tourists rave about this particularly somber-yet-enchanting place and when you finally visit the place, you would understand why people say good things about it.

The people of Borgarnes are very much into sports. You would notice that there are a lot of recreational centers where you can play badminton, soccer, basketball, or go swimming. These are the things you can do to stay fit for that next hiking expedition, or simply to have fun.

Borgarnes is more than just a stopover town in the ring road of Iceland. It is a great destination who wants to “get away” without getting lost.

May 2, 2010 at 7:41 pm | No comment

Schellenberg


Schellenberg
Photo by: Wikipedia, Creative Commons

Having a total land area of about 3.5 square kilometers, Schellenberg is the smallest municipality in Liechtenstein. As of December 31, 2007, the population of the entire village is only 1,029. Schellenberg is found on top of a hill at 626 meters or 2,054 feet above the ground. This is where the history of Liechtenstein started.

Schellenberg and Vaduz used to be two different territories under Prince Johann Adam Von Liechtenstein. It was only during 1719 when these two territories combined under the name Liechtenstein.

The enchanting landscapes of this village attract tourists from all over the world. A good view of the Alps can be seen from Schellenberg. The hills and the virgin woods add to the spectacular beauty of this sanctuary. Schellenberg in itself is a huge museum. This is where the principality’s old houses are located using the most primitive building materials and methods. But the oldest house is called Biedermann House which still stands up to this day. This house was built back in 1518. It is now made open to public to serve as a reminder of their culture.

One of the most visited places in the village is ruins like the Schellenberg fortress ruins which seemingly takes a person back to the past. There are also a few modern churches in the village. Among them are the churches of St. Mary the Immaculate and St. George’s Chapel. But at the top of the list is definitely the Russian Memorial mountain path. Along this path is a monument which commemorates an asylum which was offered to the Russian soldiers.

May 2, 2010 at 5:46 pm | No comment

Port Elizabeth


Port Elizabeth beach
Photo by: exfordy, Creative Commons

Port Elizabeth, South Africa is a coastal city southwest of Durban. Its colloquial Afrikaans name is “Die Baai” and it is one of the larges cities in South Africa. Port Elizabeth is nested in the Eastern Cape Province, in the southeastern tip of South Africa. Locals call Port Elizabeth as the “Windy City” and the “Friendly City”. Like nearby Durban, Port Elizabeth also lives off water-based businesses and ventures.

Port Elizabeth has great weather that is envied by other South African cities. It has sub-tropic climate. This means it is warm in summer, with only light rain throughout the year. Summers are hot, but not humid, and winters are cool but only mildly so.

As a port city, Port Elizabeth has a very rich colonial history. Evidence of this can be found in the Donkin Heritage Trail. This trail is a tourist’s journey through Port Elizabeth’s colonial past. Sites in this trail include: the Campanile, or the Bell Tower, one of the first structures built by the 1820 Settlers; the Old City Hall, built in 1862; the Donkin Reserve Park and monument; and finally, Fort Frederick, built 1799.

Aside from history and culture, Port Elizabeth is famous for its big water sports industry. Here, all kinds of water sports can be done in the water. It is actually called the “Water Sports Capital of South Africa.” The main venue for these activities is Algoa Bay. A few of the many water sports activities that can be done in Algoa Bay are surfing, game fishing and windsurfing. Yachting is also very famous in Port Elizabeth. The Algoa Bay Yacht Club is a fellowship of local and foreign Yacht lovers. For those who like to experience the sea but are too scared to get into the water, Garden Route is a good place to visit. It gives a great view of the Bay from the Tsitsikamma National Park.

Port Elizabeth is a great place to visit, especially for water sports aficionados. Regardless if you can swim or not, Port Elizabeth and Algoa Bay are really great vacation spots.

May 2, 2010 at 2:46 pm | No comment

Frunze


Frunze downtown
Photo by: Irene2005, Creative Commons

When you travel other countries, isn’t it nice to discover new things and learn from it? Frunze, Kyrgyzstan should be your target, then. Actually, Frunze was the former name of the Kyrgyzstan’s capital, Bishkek. However, it is still regarded as a traditional attraction simply because it was named after the country’s hero.

Here’s a short story about Mikhail Vasilievich Frunze. He was one of Lenin’s students who was responsible for defeating conquerors who tried to defeat their army. After the victory, he was sent to supervise a team of Turkic Commissions and educate other inhabitants. Subsequently, he became a war leader again and headed an army. When the war was over, he just wrote books and articles about different strategies that are useful during battles.

Thus, when his death came, his birthplace was named after him. He has a statue situated in Moscow and a Military School named after him. To commemorate his reputation, his whole house together with his published items and personal stuff were included in a museum located at Frunze Street.

Moreover, as you wake up for your second day of vacation, you will enjoy the countryside lifestyle of Kyrgyz. Their way of life involves horseback riding for men while weaving for most of the girls. Instead of staying in luxurious hotels with pools and spa, you will mostly spend your time inside a yurt. It is shelter made up of animal hairs woven together with ribbons and wood materials as a replacement for nails and cement.

Going to Kyrgyzstan is just easy when you have your Visa and passport. Hurry and enjoy your spare time here at Frunze, Kyrgyzstan.

May 2, 2010 at 11:15 am | No comment

Kanggye

Kanggye is a transportation hub and is known as the provincial capital of Chagang. It is topographically located at a spot where four rivers meet and is connected to many cities by land, water, and air. It is connected to Pyongyang and other locations by highways and railways.

It was historically a military interest since the Joseon Dynasty because of its topography.

As a capital, it is the home of the Kanggye Timber Processing Factory, a furniture production factory that is run by the state. Today, this factory has been greatly modernized and has gone a long way from producing only dining tables and chopsticks during its early years. It is now a well-developed, comprehensive woodworking facility in the heart of Kanggye.

The climate in Kanggye is temperate. Summers are warm with a slight coldness during nighttime. Winters are biting cold with clear skies. During the early spring, it is usually sunny with a hint of coldness in the air. Autumn can be very changing so prepare for it.

One of the places that you need to visit in Kanggye is the Inphung Pavilion. It is located in the middle of the city and is a cultural recreation area for most people. The Inphung Pavilion is a wooden hall which is said to show national character and architecture in North Korea. It is also regarded as one of the eight beauty spots during the old times.

You can also visit the Mangmi Pavilion, a former military command post that stands on a granite cliff. Aside from this, you can also go to the Kanggye Public Office which has been converted as the Kanggye History Museum.

Another spot that you could visit in Kanggye is Mount Ryonhwa.

May 2, 2010 at 6:07 am | No comment

Bhojpur


Chirkhuwaa Khola stream at Baaluwani (Bhojpur)
Photo by: TheDreamSky, Creative Commons

Bhojpur is a town situated in Eastern Nepal. Bhojpur is home mainly to the Newar ethnic group that is renowned for their excellent craftmanship. It is considered as the headquarters of the Bhojpur district and is described as hilly and mountainous. Neigboring towns have airports connecting to Kathmandu making it easily accessible for tourists who wish to travel here.

Bhojpur, being a mountainous area, is a favorite for people who like to hike. The green, lush hillsides and the cool breeze make it seem like a paradise for nature lovers. Bhojpur boasts of making exquisite metal crafts like the famous khukuri knives. The traditional homes of the Newar people also show the talents and skills that they are famous for.

Bhojpur is not currently suitable for motor vehicles and to get from one place to another, one has to walk. The hills and mountains of Bhojpur offer a panoramic view of neighboring towns like Dingla, to the north, and Ghoretar, to the south. Bhojpur is a stage of cultural diversity, which is evident by the crafts, the homes and ways of living of its inhabitants.

This town also has a mysterious and peaceful ambiance thanks to the gently sloping hills that seem to separate one from the rest of the world. The climate of Bhojpur is colder than Kathmandu, and the best time to visit is between October and April where the skies are clear. Winter here can be very cold as compared to other major cities in Nepal.

Bhojpur is a town with a lot of history and a rich culture. It is an ideal spot to rest and relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

May 2, 2010 at 5:43 am | No comment

Marseilles


Longchamp Palace
Photo by: Diego Cupolo, Creative Commons

Marseille is France’s oldest city and is also the second most populous, next only to its capital, Paris. The city is situated in the southeast coast, along the Mediterranean Sea. Its strategic location has made it the France’s biggest commercial port.

Marseille’s rich history and culture have been preserved in the city’s’ many monuments and museums. Worth visiting are the Monument aux Morts de l’Armée d’Orient, a 1922 statue in memory of World War II, and the Monument aux Repatriés d’Afrique du Nord, a bronze sculpture made in 1971 in honor of those who came back from North Africa.

Museum lovers will have a blast in Marseille. 17th-century private mansion houses the Musée Cantini, which contains a large collection of ceramics dating back to 17th- and 18th-centuries. There are also paintings that depict famous landscapes of the surrounding region. The Musée d’Art Contemporain, on the other hand, is home to the works of famous French contemporary artists like Cesar Baldaccini and Christo, new realists Ben and Klein, as well as pop icon Andy Warhol. Marseille’s fascinating culture and its many influences come alive at the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille. The museum features exciting exhibits like the ruins of a third-century merchant vessel that was stumbled upon in 1973 at the Vieux Port.

There are at least four other museums that are worth checking out: the Musée de la Marine et de l’Économie, which is dedicated to the city’s ocean economy; the Musée de la Mode, where avant-garde fashion is on exhibit; Musée des Docks Romains with its Roman structures and the Musée du Santon, which features little saints made of molded plaster. All these are enough to give tourists museum-fatigue and make them eager to check out Marseille’s other places of interest.

For a change of scenery, you can visit the Vallon des Auffes, where you can drink in the sights and the local color. This traditional fishing village boasts of the classic cabanons that fishermen used to build for tackle storage and weekend cookouts.

Finally, if you want a taste of Marseille’s history, try the Abbaye St-Victor, a 12th-century structure nestled on a hilltop near Vieux Port. It houses martyr tombs dating back to the fourth century and a sarcophagus that dates back to the 3rd century.

May 2, 2010 at 12:52 am | No comment

Kunda


Kunda, továrna
Photo by: dezidor, Creative Commons

The best way to travel is to go to a place rich in history and culture. You will have a great time not only exploring the place but also finding rich and abundant knowledge to take with you home. For all those travel bloggers, you can explore greater heights as you visit different countries in Europe. And one specific country and town that comes highly recommended is Kunda, Estonia.

Kunda is a small town situated along the east of the Gulf of Finland. There is some evidence of prehistoric communities in Estonia that dates back to 6500 B.C. This is why the Kunda culture is very rich in history.

You might also find it interesting to know that the Kunda Air Base Facility is just located 13 kilometers west of the town. It has served as the Soviet and Estonians’ defense interests for years and years.

As you take a tour of Kunda, you will also find many historical and interesting places. You can visit their pulp mill or you can go to their port. There’s also a cement factory you can include in your tour. Another main attraction of the city is the Toolse Castle which was established in 1471. The castle was mainly built as a defense against pirate attacks. Although it was destroyed during the Great Northern War, you can still see the beauty in its ruins.

So if you want to take a trip to Kunda in the near future, you know now how to make the most out of it. Enjoy the great sights and history of the place and you will not come home empty-handed.

May 1, 2010 at 7:30 pm | No comment

Water Island


Trunk Bay
Photo by: Rennett Stowe, Creative Commons

Nature tripping definitely comes to mind when you think about spending some time touring around various cities at the U.S. Virgin Islands. There are actually lots of places to choose from and each place has a unique personality that offers various activities, from enjoying the view, to engaging in water sports to simply walking about the areas, to looking at historical sights and grand architectural relics. One of the most sought after places at this US State is the Water Island.

In Water Island, U.S. Virgin Islands, you will have a grand time relaxing and trying to relieve yourself of all the stresses back home. This is perfect for people who are after a laid-back kind of vacation. The place is a small residential island and is the smallest of all four islands at the US Virgin Islands. It measures only 491.5 acres. The island has less than 200 residents, that is may be due to the fact that it has only been transferred to the local government in 1996.

A great trip at the island includes a lot of time spent on the beach. You may also want to indulge on fun activities like kayaking, fishing, boating, hiking, taking a bike tour or having drinks at the Honeymoon Bay. You must leave all your problems at home and just try to enjoy a slower pace of life at Water Island. You will surely have a great time in trying to experience life that is completely different from the city. This is a haven for those who have had enough of workload and pressure and want to have some time breathing in the beauty of nature.

May 1, 2010 at 5:42 pm | No comment

Vinh


View of Vinh city from Quyet
Photo by: Nhcuong81, Creative Commons

Vinh is a city located in the northern part of Vietnam. It is considered as the most important city in Northern Central Vietnam as it is a primary key in transporting between the northern and southern Vietnam. The city also keeps a port where various products from the sea and the neighboring country are received and distributed to other parts of Vietnam. Although Vinh City is a busy commercial center, it is also home to great tourist destinations which are as follows:

• Quyet Mountain
It houses the beautiful Lam Garden where native floras and faunas can be found. Other than the garden, the mountain is also surrounded with a rich forest of pine trees and other faunas that can be found on the way to the top. Upon reaching the top of the mountain, you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Nghe Region as well as the hills and rivers down the slope.

• Hong Son Temple
The temple was built around Nguyen Dynasty, influencing its overall architectural style. Until now, ceremonies are still conducted in the temple three times a year; this is during the third and tenth day of third lunar month and on the twentieth day of August lunar month.

• Cua Lo Beach
This is a peaceful beach that is rewarding to visit with its fine white sand and clear turquoise water. There are lots of hotels, vacation houses and restaurants in the place so you have a lot of choices to select from.

Don’t forget to tour around these places when visiting Vinh City. While exploring the area, you may find unusual products which are good souvenir items. The restaurants offer traditional Vietnamese cuisine that is a delicious treat after a tiring day of tour!

May 1, 2010 at 1:22 pm | No comment

Klapedia


Over Klaepadia
Photo by: gnz, Creative Commons

Klaipeda, Lithuania is located on the northernmost port in the Baltic Sea and is the only port in Lithuania. Klaipeda, Lithuania is a fairly old city—it is said to have been founded on August 1st, 1252. The city has been an important commercial center since the ancient times. Here is where the northern and southern merchants frequently trade and do business.

Its architectural style is similar to those you can see in the northern countries, although it also has its cozy ‘Old Town’, Fachwerk style to it. Moreover, Klaipeda is very proud of its marine traditions—and a good number of tourists and visitors come to Klaipeda annually because of it. The city hosts the Sea Festival, held every last weekend of July. The festival includes a number of amazing performances of artistic companies as well as craftsmen fairs.

Another way to enjoy Klaipeda’s maritime culture is by going to Kopgalis Fort, which houses the Maritime museum. The museum has an attractive exposition of the history of navigation, marine nature, plus a rich aquarium and dolphinarium. It has many talented trained dolphins, sea lions, and various species of fish.

Klaipeda, Lithuania has many recreational beaches. It boasts pristine white sand beaches. The Seaside Regional Park is a great place to unwind, filled with beautiful landscape and nature. You can go yachting and sailing on the Baltic Sea. You can also pamper yourself by unwinding at Palanga, Lithuania’s biggest seaside resort. There are so many art and marine activities to do at Klaipeda!

May 1, 2010 at 11:25 am | No comment

Santa Rosa de Copan


Downtown Santa Rosa de Copan
Photo by: Adal-Honduras, Creative Commons

If you want a cool weekend getaway or a non-scorching summer vacation, then Santa Rosa de Copan in Honduras is the place to visit. Located in the Western region of the country and nestled in the mountains, Santa Rosa de Copan promises tourists a very cool mountain climate, and interesting scenes of fine colonial architecture starting of with narrow cobbled streets and colonial style houses.

Santa Rosa is rich in cultural heritage and its historical center has been declared a national monument of Honduras. The city offers tourists plenty of hotels, restaurants, a cinema, and exciting night life, and super fun day tours. The Celaque National Park is a great place to visit. A tour to this wide and beautiful park can be coupled with a trip to Gracias and the hot springs, and the Corquin and Belen Gualcho, which embarks a grand church and some of the best Sunday markets in all of Honduras. Horseback and walking tours are available in the Dulce Nombre, which also have trails leading to inviting wetlands possible for swimming. The Reserva de Vida Silvestre Puca is a cloud forest reserve that also boasts of great scenes.

Historic sites include the Hospital de Occidente, Hospicio Amparo San Antonio, Flor de Copan, Edificio de la Casa de Cultura (cultural palace) , Mercado central and a lot more. Santa Rosa de Copan also boasts of great artisan crafts that will really amaze tourists. Ironwork, pottery, cigars, tanneries, wood shops and leather products are only a few of the craftsmanship that the city boasts of. Its leather goods made into belts, saddles, bags, key chains and what not have become signature products and staple souvenirs.

May 1, 2010 at 1:53 am | No comment

Palapye


Palapye – Moremi Swamp
Photo by: tai strietman, Creative Commons

Talking about rails and trains in Botswana, the large town of Palapye will always be part of the picture. Being the center of South Africa’s railroad, a lot of tourists are given the chance to experience the town. However, there are more than just railroads and trains here. There are a lot of various great tourist destinations here that you must not miss checking out.

For instance, if you wish to have the experience of your life, you can watch one of the last heads of the endangered white and black rhinos in Palapye’s Khama Rhino Sanctuary. Other than these special rhinos, there are a lot of opportunities awaiting you to view other wildlife members of Africa.

Aside from conservation spots, Palapye also houses various attractions that have a great historical significance to the town. Tswapong Hills and Moremi Gorge are one of them. They gained their names not merely because of their natural beauties but also of their being a generous permanent source of water to the residents of Palapye.

However, before experiencing this town, you need to be mindful of their weather. The summer months here can be as hot as 40-degree Celsius while throwing plenty of thunderstorms. This season starts from September to April. On the other hand, winter months in this town are dry and mild.

Indeed, the town of Palapye can give you an experience to appreciate the world more through the town’s conservation parks and historical landmarks. With this, you must make it a point to book a trip to this town in Botswana.

April 30, 2010 at 11:17 pm | 1 comment

Avarua


Main Street Avarua
Photo by: Wikimedia, Creative Commons

If you want to be able to experience real tropical island delight, then head on now to Avarua, Cook Island. Located along the north coast of Rarotonga in the Cook Islands, Avarua is the destination for tourist shopping when you are in the area. It boasts of some of the island’s splendid restaurants and shops. The warm and sunny weather makes for a perfect day out just to swim, or take a long walk on the fine sandy beaches.

When you are in Avarua, do not forget to check out the following tourist destinations to complete your holiday getaway. Your first stop should be the Salt Water Café; with the beach just across, you can easily take a dip into the warm, sparkling blue waters and swim with the fishes. The place is not filled with many tourists so you can enjoy lounging in the area all day long. If you are into snorkeling or diving, perhaps you may want to go to the Edgewater Resort where they have some of the best and beautiful corals, starfish, and other marine life that will just take your breath away. Getting a place to stay at while you are in Avarua is not a problem as there are many hotels that will surely fit your budget.

Avarua is the best place for you to visit if you are in love with the sea and everything about it. You will surely enjoy the hospitality and relaxed attitude of the locals, the wonderful and delectable food of the Island, the quaint shops, and the sandy beaches where you can relax all day long and melt your worries away.

April 30, 2010 at 3:02 am | No comment

Szombathely


A square in Szombathely
Photo by: Photodiary of Lili, Cili & Krisztian, Creative Commons

This year, you have to visit a wonderful place that is well-known for its agricultural machinery, shoes and textiles. You should visit Szombathely which a lot of visitors have been going in and out from. There are art galleries too so you would be able to take snapshots of your trip as well as sight-see some buildings that were erected some centuries back but were half ruined during the onset of World War II.

Sure enough, this trip to Szombathely would make you see the events that unfolded at a different time but since the landmarks are still present, you would be able to witness the proof of their magnificence. Most visitors would often head to beaches and spas but here in Szombathely, what you will see are historical museums like the Eîlbey House. When you go there, you have to skip Mondays since they are closed but the other days of the week, they remain open for public viewing.

Whenever you see the market stalls or the shopping centers you would often see tourists bustling there so better head off to the Köztársaság tér where art collections are being sold from affordable to expensive rates. There is also a store within the confines of this center that has a rather interesting glass roof which most of the visitors seem to stop in awe so don’t forget to look up when you go there.

A place called Vasi Múzeumfalu used to be the home of Slovanians back in the 9th century and was later on remodeled to house a fish pond and some farmhouses. This place is often bursting with tourists since the scenery is somewhat different from the usual sights already found at Szombathely.

Other places to put in your itinerary are the different churches from different religious sects. Here you would find mosques, synagogues and cathedrals that all have reminiscent architectural designs of Baroque and also of Moorish ways.

This travel destination is simply breathtaking since you will indeed go back in time when life was so easy as compared to the present time.

April 30, 2010 at 1:59 am | No comment

Kemer


Kemer roadside
Photo by: Veyis Polat, Creative Commons

Kemer is a west seaside district of Antalya, Turkey. It is famous for a being a seaside resort in the Mediterranean coast. This was originally a quiet rural district, which has evolved into a beach destination in the 1980s. The name Kemer was derived from the long stone wall built in that district. It was constructed to prevent flood waters from the mountains going to the village. Its former name was Eski Köy meaning old village.

Kemer provides a good view of the Taurus Mountain and the azure Mediterranean Sea. Its weather provides a long summer period that most of its visitors enjoy. Some parts of its shores have large pebbles and stones instead of sand. This shoreline stretches from Beldibi to Tekirova. Nature’s beauty is the main highlight of this district.

Accommodations can be easily found in this district, since it was created to be a resort town. Restaurants and stores are also available near the beach. There is easy transportation available for going around. Most visitors avail of reasonably priced package deals in going to Kemer.

The Yörük Parki is a charming rustic park. It is an anthropological Turkish nomad themed area. Some parts of it near the sea are sandy shores. The greener parts provide shady areas and amiable areas for recreation. The theme park is completed by actors dressed in nomadic costumes. Turkish delicacies are also available inside the park such as gozieme.

The Beaches of Kemer vary from those lined with cafes and restaurants to the cozy ones with more privacy. Its forest and mountains also provide a trip with nature. The Beldibi cave is also an interesting place to visit when in Kemer. It is a Mesolithic and Neolithic cave where some ruins are found. It is located 27km southwest of Antalya.

Its marina has a capacity of 320 yachts. This Turkiz Kemer Marina is a famous place for sailors from the United States and Europe. Annual events happen in this district such as boat races, offshore championships, art festivals, and Kemer Carnival.

Kemer is also a popular starting point when going to other historical sites nearby. These places include Olimpos, Termessos, Phaselis, Aspendos, and Perge.

April 29, 2010 at 10:13 pm | No comment

Matrah

For travellers who are looking for a historical area to visit that is near the capital city of Oman, Matrah is the place you must visit. While most people think that Matrah is simply a district of Muscat, it is actually a separate city that is located in the northern part of the country. Also called Muttrah, this place was once considered the center of commerce for the country before oil was discovered in the region. Despite the transfer of commercial centers, the city is still considered a major commercial center in the region and still has one of the biggest sea ports here.

Since Matrah is so near Muscat, very few people find it necessary to stay there overnight and instead choose to make a trip to Matrah part of their trip to Muscat. The people who travel to Matrah in Oman do so to visit certain old historical landmarks that are found there such as the Souq Muttrah, which is a traditional bazaar that is part of the old commercial district of the area and the Sour Al-Lawatiah which is an old walled community that consists of old small houses.

Visitors to Matrah might want to check out the gold shops in the bazaar there where you can have custom made gold jewelry made for you. You can also drop by the Bait al Zubair museum which is found here as well and have a tasty and traditional Omani breakfast at one of the many small cafeterias you can find in this city as well when you arrive for your tour of the area.

April 29, 2010 at 9:06 pm | No comment

Kumanovo


View of Kumanovo
Photo by: Jacoby Canady, Creative Commons

The northeast part of Skopje is where the city of Kumanovo can be found. It is a big city with an equally big number of cultures and beliefs. The hybridity of Macedonian and Serbian culture can be found in the ways the residents of the city go about in their daily lives. Every 14th of January, masked revelers appear in the Kumanovo city square. This tradition has been around for over 10 centuries old.

The features of the old can be seen with the new in Kumanovo. In this place, the two opposites coexist to create an atmosphere that is very unique. The town already has various modern establishments which offer tourists the conveniences they need in today’s modern world such as upscale restaurants, shopping malls, sports centers and the ever existent internet cafes. But despite this show of modernity, the city is still an emblem of the old as it features the labyrinth alleyways and the Macedonian roofs lined with terra cotta tiles.

Another unique feature of the city of Kumanovo is the presence of its pristine mineral springs. Many people believe that this water spring clears the eyes and skin from impurities and it is also a wonderful drink for tourists who believe in supernatural effects of the mineral water. That is probably the reason why devotees often fly to Kumanovo—to get their bottles filled with this mineral water.

Visiting Kumanovo is an exhilarating experience. With the vast number of activities that can be done while in here, the guests will surely never run out of things to do while taking their vacation here.

April 29, 2010 at 11:56 am | No comment

Porlamar


Downtown Porlamar
Photo by: Wikimedia, Creative Commons

As the center of commerce in the island of Margarita, it is just natural for Porlamar to receive attention not only from the locals but from the South American tourists as well. Venezuela gets a lot of international tourists every year because people are always interested in their ways of preserving their culture. Museums are everywhere and each museum has unique artifacts depicting the rich culture of their city in their country as a whole.

Since this is the largest city in the island of Margarita, it paved the way for it to have more shops than any other cities in the island. The nightlife is also something to boast about as it is the most active in this city than in any other in Margarita. The restaurants are excellent and the food they serve are really deserving of attention. Shopaholics would also have the time of their life going around the various shops in the city. This would be their chance to have the common South American style and incorporate it with their current style. They can buy clothes from the local shops then combine them with their normal clothes and look as if they have bought an entirely new wardrobe.

Other than the shops and the restaurants, Porlamar also has amazing vistas. Their beaches have gorgeous white sand and their mountain ranges are something to be excited about. With these amazing sights, both modern and traditional activities will be enjoyed without having to leave this city.

April 29, 2010 at 10:46 am | No comment

Santo Tomas de Castilla


Espacio de juego de pelota Maya ruins
Photo by: Renata Avila, Creative Commons

One of the most important ports of Guatemala is Santo Tomas de Castilla. In the 19th century, Belgians first settled in this port city and it was only in the 1960s when the port was established. Santo Tomas de Castilla supports the Puerto Barrios, another cargo port in Guatemala. Santo Tomas used to accept only cargo ships but since 2004, the port started to accept cruise ships as well. And in the area, cruise ships are common because they have to pass Santo Tomas Port before reaching the Caribbean. Because of the addition of cruise ships in the port city, Santo Tomas de Castilla became a hot tourist spot.

Santo Tomas de Castilla does not have breathtaking beaches and amazing historical ruins but they also have their own share of tourist destinations and activities. The most popular ruins in Guatemala are the ruins found in Tikal national Park. However, Santo Tomas de Castilla also has its own ruins which are found at Quirigua. The ruins are not as grand as the Tikal ruins but they are also an important part of Guatemala’s history.

There are also fascinating sculptures from different periods which you can find near the Santo Tomas port. There are also lakes and rivers near the port such as the Dulce River and Lake Izabel. You should also check out San Felipe Spanish Fortress which is also located near the port city of Santo Tomas de Castilla. You can also visit the nearby Puerto Barrios where you can enjoy partying at nightclubs and drinking at bars.

April 29, 2010 at 1:37 am | No comment

Marbella


Marbella – Parque Natural Sierra de Las Nieves
Photo by: Bert K, Creative Commons

There is a small city in the province of Andalusia in Spain that has drawn great attention from visitors. The city of Marbella is close to the Mediterranean where it is home to one of its famous beaches, Costa del Sol.

The city of Marbella may be small but is filled with beauty. It can be easily accessed by bus or from the airport in Malaga. Some prefer to go to this place as it promotes exclusivity while others merely enjoy it for the brilliance of the bay. There are a few popular celebrities who have once resided and still owns homes in this place. Among them are Sean Connery, Rod Stewart, and many other celebrities.

As you stroll the seaside of Marbella, you will feel the cool breeze that is drawn by the open waters of the sea. The paths are lined with thick palm trees that provide shade and adds the fresh and comfortable feeling of the air. There are two main beaches in this city that is frequented by individuals who would like to take a cool dip or bask in the sun. These are the Playa de Fontanilla and the Playa de la Bajadilla. These are the places to go if you would like to unwind and relax while marveling at the magnificent sights of the sea.

Other popular tourist spots in the area are the Arabian wall, Encarnation’s church, old city center, Museu del Grabado Espanol Contemporaneo and the Bonsai Museum. The Puerto Banus is another site where you will find yachts by the marina. This small city is also constantly used for as settings for films. Perhaps it is because of the natural beauty that the place has to offer without compromising the quality.

April 29, 2010 at 12:11 am | 1 comment

Salamanca


Puente Romano y Catedral de Salamanca
Photo by: Individuo, Creative Commons

In Western Spain, you will find the city of Salamanca. It is a place that is rich with history and culture, arts and entertainment. The Old city of Salamanca has been recognized to bear highly relevant points of history; this is the reason for its protection and become one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1988.

The city of Salamanca has also gained its reputation with the moniker “The Golden City”. This was not derived from literal terms; rather it was because of the sandstone renaissance structures that are unique from the specific type of stone used called the Villamayor stone. Another famous destination in this place is the Plaza Mayor. It can accommodate around twenty thousand guests. In the earlier times, it was the place where bullfights were done. Nowadays it is now the main venue for concerts and other performances.

The structures all around Salamanca are truly a must-see. These sites will hold you in awe even before you actually enter the premises of the building. Some of these structures are built for the purpose of education, a great number are meant to be places of religion while others are for the enrichment of the city’s culture and industry.

Some of the churches include the church of la Celerecia, Iglesia Parroquial de Villar de la Yegua, Convent of San Esteban and the new Cathedral of Salamanca. Perhaps even when you are not a devout of the catholic faith, you will feel much serenity and peace as you enter the grounds of these sacred places. If you would like to learn more about the history and other pertinent information of the city of Salamanca, you can visit the Museo de Art Deco Y Art Nouveau Casa Lis, La Casa de las Conchas, Casa de las Muertes and the Spanish Civil War Archive.

April 29, 2010 at 12:11 am | 1 comment

Gothenburg


Sunset at Gothenburg
Photo by: Dirigentens, Creative Commons

Gothenburg has been known for its sea ports because of its strategic location at the west coast between Denmark-Norway. The sea has become a primary identity of this magnificent city. Gothenburg is the second largest city in Sweden and has been associated to the Greek God Poseidon because of their seafaring history. Today, Gothenburg manages to retain this identity while putting forth a new one. Gothenburg is now known primarily because of their art, culture and education.

Many cultural events occur in Gothenburg on a yearly basis. Two of the most popular festivals celebrating the artistry of the Swedes are the Gothenburg Film Festival and the Gothenburg Book Fair, both of which are the largest events of their kind in Scandinavia.

As you walk down the main boulevard of Gothenburg called Kungsportsavenyn, you can’t help but feel like you’re a part of this wonderful city. Here you’ll find Gothenburg’s Museum of Art. A little further and you’ll be in front of the concert hall where the musical talents of Gothenburg showcase their talents/

If you want to have fun, the most popular amusement park in Gothenburg is Liseberg. It has the largest number of rides of all amusement parks in Scandinavia.

If it’s shopping you’re interested in then visit Nordstran, Scandinavia’s second largest shopping district. It has over 180 shops and 150 offices. From shoes to clothes to books, you name it Nordstran’s got it.

If you’re done soaking in the culture and grandeur of Gothenburg it’s time to enjoy its nightlife. Gothenburg is known to have to have more night clubs than anywhere else in Sweden. If you’re a person who’s not into clubbing and more into fine dining then you’ve definitely come to the right place. Gothenburg’s cuisine is one of the finest in the world and has garnered rave reviews from critics’ world wide.

April 29, 2010 at 12:05 am | No comment

Salelologa


Salelologa Wharf
Photo by: Rudolf Stricker, Creative Commons

Salelologa Samoa is a very quiet town that sits between the Cook Islands and Fiji. This area is situated north of Samoa and south of Tonga. Salelologa is a petite district in Samoa that serves as main hub for public crafts and bargain shopping. There are many islands that can be found in this district, and majority of them fall under the Fa’asaleleaga electoral district. An amazing island that offers breathtaking landscape and heartwarming people, this enthusiastic town that’s been serving as shopping district offers wide variety of fresh fishes and locally grown products that bought mostly in Salelologa market.

If you want to go shopping in Salelologa then the Savii market is the best place for you to go. Savii market was recently transferred to a different relocation site due to its old structure. A much stronger and larger facility that’s about 5 minutes away from the main district has already been built as replacement. The new Savii market is the best place to buy cheap local products for remembrance. Before you can reach the Salelologa area, you need to take a boat ride from Salelologa wharf first. The Salelologa wharf is Salelologa ’s main entrance point. This is the only wharf port in Salelologa that can take people to Salelologa main district.

Salelologa may be small but its beauty is no little thing to consider. There first class hotels and restaurants are remarkably affordable, and their white sand beaches and tropical attractions can truly satisfy a travelers heart. Salelologa is a wonder that still remains hidden from the outside world.

April 28, 2010 at 9:31 pm | No comment