Skardu


Suspension bridge between Khaplu and Skardu
Photo by: reh navard e shoq, Creative Commons

Skardu, Pakistan is known for being a major tourism, trekking, and expedition base in the northern area. The mountainous terrain in this region includes four of the highest peaks in the world which makes it an attractive destination for tourists and mountaineers.

Because of the presence of mountain ranges and high peaks in the area of Skardu, mountaineering and trekking are the main activities that tourists engage to when touring in this area. Because of the fact that many tourists around the world go to Skardu to experience a different kind of rush, many establishments have been developed in the area to host its many visitors.

The following 8,000m above peaks are accessible from Skardu: the K2, the Gasherbrums, the Broad Peak, and the Trango Towers.

Skardu is also known for the Deosai plain which is considered as the second highest plateau in the world next to Tibet. This area is widely patronized by trekkers and gives a beautiful view of the Deosai Lake.

Because of its closeness to the mountains, Skardu has moderately warm summers and extremely cold winters.

Skardu can be reached via land or air. Via land, the normal route is to pass through the Karakorum Highway to a link road in the Skardu valley. There are also flights between Skardu Airport and Islamabad which you can utilize in order to reach the province. Because of the climate, the roads that lead to Skardu can be blocked for a certain period of time depending on the weather conditions.

When in Skardu, it is advisable to go to the serene lakes of Kachura which is the location of the Shangri-La Resort Hotel Complex and the Sadpara Lake which is the major water supplier in town and is also known for its calm waters and beautiful surroundings.

If you are looking for adventure and picturesque places at the same time, there is no doubt that Skardu should be your chosen destination.

April 13, 2010 at 7:58 pm | No comment

Nairobi


Kifaru Ark Nairobi National Park — Behold the Giraffe
Photo by: khym54, Creative Commons

Nairobi, Kenya is the city that will never run out of things to offer. It is one of Africa’s major cities and considered as the center of commerce. It has a modern and beautiful landscape. The city offers several land tourist attractions too.

Nairobi is geographically situated on higher grounds. It is 5,900 feet from sea level. This gives the place a moderate climate, perfect for relaxation. By average, June to July is the coldest at 52 degrees Fahrenheit and the highest is at 75 degrees.

The place is known for its green parks. It has a dense tree cover which makes the air fresh and clean, despite the busy streets of Nairobi. The Uhuru Park, translated as “Freedom” park, is one of the most famous. From there, the world famous skyline of the city can be viewed.

It is also called the Safari Capital of the World. It is full of first class hotels for Safari-bound tourists. The Nairobi National Park has giraffes, lions and more than 400 kinds of birds. This safari walk is the greatest way to experience on-foot wilderness exploration.

There are also other fun activities like bungee jumping. For shopping and relaxation, there are several malls like the Sarit Centre in the Westlands, and the Yaya Centre at Hurlingham. Nairobi houses Africa’s largest ice rink. This is the 15,000 square feet rink in Panari Sky Centre. There are also eight large golf courses to choose from.

Moving across this magnificent city is easy too. There are numerous taxis, buses and trains to help anyone travel around Africa’s heart of commerce.

April 13, 2010 at 1:28 pm | No comment

Beruwala


Beruwala
Photo by: YimHafiz, Creative Commons

You can visit any place in the world, discover luxury at its best as when you go to Beruwala. If you think you will only learn history and other facts about the place, you are wrong. Here, you will experience history, live in luxury, and have the best moment of your life.

Beruwala is a busy town. It is a commercial center, so expect a lot of people doing trade and small business here. If you want to join their busy trade, you can shop for local goods, gems, and other souvenir items that will remind you of your unique visit to the place.

But if you want to stay away from the busy hub of the city, you can visit some of the best beach resorts in town. You can go swimming with your friends in emerald blue waters of the beach. You can even enjoy some diving, snorkeling, and surfing activities. But if you want it simple, you can stroll along the shores and enjoy the white sand particles sliding on your feet.

When you sit on the beach, you can witness how local people spend their day earning their livelihood. Fishing is widely done in Beruwala, and you will be amazed of how they try to catch their fish through silt fishing.

Turtle hatching is both a tourist attraction and a protected eco program in the town. If you are lucky enough, you can spot a lot of turtles nesting on the shore or baby turtles getting ready for their first swim in the beach.

April 13, 2010 at 12:53 pm | No comment

Haeju

Known as the administrative area in the South Hwanghe province, Haeju is a city near the Haeju Bay. It is considered as a relevant port in the Sino-Korean trade.

During the Han dynasty, Haeju was under the control of China. It was conquered by the Koguryo Kingdom and was later lost to Silla.

It was during the Japanese occupation in Korea that Haeju was converted into a city level district. In 1940, Haeju was declared an open port and was promoted to full city status after the defeat of Japan.

Located in Haeju is the Haeju Airport and it is connected to Sariwon through the Haeju Line.

Upon visiting Haeju, make sure to stop over the following destinations:

1. Puyong Pavilion. It is a historical pavilion that has been reduced to ashes during the Fatherland Liberation War. A beautiful hall in the middle of a pond, Puyong Pavilion had been reconstructed to its original state by the people of the province and now stands majestically 33 stone footstalls fixed in the pond as is known as a holiday resort where you can enjoy a cultural relaxation.

2. Haeju Sokbinggo. It is considered as a historical relic in Korea. The Haeju Sokbinggo is a half-underground structure that is used to store ice.

3. Suyangsan Falls. Far out of Haeju is the Suyangsan Falls. This falls is located at the foot of Mount Suyang and shows a scenic view of the mountain. With a spectacular landscape to brag about, the falls is one of the attractions you shouldn’t miss in Haeju.

4. Sokdamgugok Rest Home. It is located in an area where scenic spots are spread to show the different seasons. Included in this area are the Chonggye, Ryogum, and Sohyon Pavilion. You can enjoy sightseeing and mountaineering enjoying the beautiful spots in this relaxation home.

The cultural and historical background of Haeju cannot be denied. Visit Haeju for a wonderful experience that fuses exciting sceneries and interesting history.

April 13, 2010 at 6:08 am | No comment

Nagarkot


Rice fields in Nagarkot
Photo by: A. www.viajar24h.com, Creative Commons

Considered as a scenic destination, Nagarkot is located east of Kathmandu, Nepal. Nagarkot is a hill top elevated about two-thousand meters above sea level. It is considered to be the second highest peak in all of Kathmandu. The best way to travel to Nagarkot is by private cars or taxis. However, there are also tour buses that can take you there. The drive to Nagarkot is only an hour’s drive away from the city proper. Nagarkot’s climate is slightly colder than Kathmandu. The best time to visit the hill top is between October and March when the skies are clear.

Plenty of resorts can be seen in Nagarkot, offering full board and accommodation. Situated just below the peak, many tourists stay here and trek to the hill top to watch the sunrise. It is considered the best time to view the mountain ranges because it is when the skies are clear. Nagarkot offers a magnificent view of the breathtaking Himalayan peaks of Nepal including the famous Mount Everest.

The Kathmandu valley can also be seen from the hill top. Aside from the spectacular view, there are plenty of activities that can be done here. One can opt to stroll around the hillside, go pony-riding at the nearby villages and even meditate. Some resorts have viewing towers with coffee shops where you can enjoy the cool mountain breeze and view the majestic mountains while sipping on a cup of cappucino.

Nagarkot is for people who would like to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

April 13, 2010 at 5:34 am | 1 comment

Lviv


Lovov (L’viv) Airport
Photo by: Jilles, Creative Commons

Lviv is one of Ukraine’s major cities. Everyday living is cheap here, and there are lots of great places to visit. Tourists could ride mini buses, trams, and taxicabs to go around the city. They could visit churches such as the Boim’s Chapel, which is made up of black stones. They could also visit the popular Lychakivskiy Cemetery wherein Ukrainian heroes are buried. A lot of museums such as the Open Air Museum of Folk Architecture could be seen, as well. And whenever tourists want to experience an exceptional sauna, they could go to Bania; wherein activities are done naked.

Of course, food is another reason why tourists visit places. Here in Lviv, it is fairly easy to find a place where affordable but delicious foods are served. The Olga Café and the Rodzinka, for instance, serve really cheap yet very good meals. And the Puzata Hata is the place to try out traditional Ukrainian dishes. Then, Kupol and Gutsulsky Dvir may be visited for more sophisticated dining. But if five-star dining experiences is what tourists want, they could dine at the Wiener Kaffeehaus or at Amadeus. However, vegetarian dishes are hardly served here. Fortunately for vegetarians, Under Clepsydra offers just what they want. Fresh salads, as well as, mushroom and potato crepes would definitely delight them.

There are a lot of places to visit in the evenings in Lviv. In fact, clubs and pubs are really abundant here. Pozitiff is the trendiest lounge in this city, yet only attractive people are allowed to get in. So, it is necessary to be in the company of gorgeous individuals if one wants to enter this lounge. Club Metro is another popular disco where cool people party. But Robert Doms Beer House is a must-try. This pub is highly recommended to every tourist in town. It serves great beer and good food. Another bar that tourists should visit is the Kryivka. To get inside it, the password “Slava Ukraine” must be uttered. This place is fairly hard to find too, because it is underground. But once inside it, amazing décors and delicious foods, as well as, good theatrical performances are definitely worth the effort of finding it.

And after a fun and exhausting night, a cozy hotel is just what any tourist needs. The Old Ukrainian Home Hostel, for example, is found in Lviv’s center. It is affordable and clean. Its staff could also speak English. And it offers free breakfast, Wi-Fi, maps, and other amenities.

April 12, 2010 at 9:48 pm | 2 comments

Hveragerdi


Hveragerði lets out some steam
Photo by: borkur.net, Creative Commons

Iceland is the land of fire and ice. Iceland’s snow-capped mountains give a breathtaking view and provide recreational activities such as skiing and ice-climbing, all-year round. Volcanic activity caused havoc in the country in the course of history -the geysers in the golden circle are proof of this country’s remarkable geothermal activities

Hveragerði harnessed this geothermal energy to provide power to the whole town. Hveragerði also known as the warm-and-green town, is famous for being a Greenhouse town. Farmers employed artificial lighting using the energy from geothermal sources, making it possible for plants to thrive, even in winter. People from the capital visit this town to buy flowers, tomatoes and cucumbers, etc.

It is amazing how the people of Hveragerði go by their daily routine, seemingly not minding the loads of steam underneath and the occasional tremor. There is an excellent hotel with a golf course as well as a fitness centre.

There are a lot of activities you can engage in. There is horseback riding. You can also go fishing. There are good char and trout fishing spots in the rivers nearby. Some miles away is the Floi Nature Reserve where you can look at (and listen to) various birds, the most common of which are swans.

One thing you should not exclude in your itinerary is a visit to the Gufudalur geothermal area, a few kilometers away from the town. If you are lucky (or patient) enough, you can see a geyser go off not very far from the road – the seething water, the eruption and the after-bursts in full view.

Hveragerði is one place you should visit, to see with your own eyes the country’s fully geothermal-powered town, and all that it has to offer.

April 12, 2010 at 7:41 pm | No comment

Ain Sefra


Gateway to the Sahara, Ain Sefra Oasis.
Photo by: http2007, Creative Commons

If you are looking for an exciting yet unique vacation that will truly widen your historic horizons then it’s time you visit the Gateway to the Desert: Ain Sefra, Algeria. Situated where the Atlas Mountains begin their descent into the midst and depth of the Sahara Desert, it’s no wonder why Ain Sefra is the place to be. Nature lovers will enjoy the awe-inspiring view of red sand dunes, and mountainous terrain especially because Ain Sefra itself is roughly 1000 meters above sea level.

It was founded in 1881 as a French garrison town and was rebuilt after a disastrous flash flood in the year 1904. There are several things to do when you are in Ain Sefra. The most popular tourist activities are trekking and mountain climbing. You can also have yourself pulled by a donkey while on a native carriage, or you can just take photographs of the splendid deserts of Ain Sefra and enjoy the silence and peacefulness of the city. For an even more memorable visit, you should go see the tomb of Isabelle Eberhardt, the Russian adventurer who came to explore Ain Sefra and died of the disastrous flash flood. For those who appreciate architecture, Ain Sefra’s downtown has rectangular-like infrastructures, as well as houses that will intrigue your appreciation for unique looking establishments.

If you want a place where you can find a sandy oasis, rocky mountains, and nothing more than the pure and natural sights of the Arabian Peninsula then Ain Sefra says it all.

April 12, 2010 at 7:38 pm | No comment

Ufra


Nejameddin Kubra Mausoleum
Photo by: martijn.munneke, Creative Commons

Many people would think twice before visiting a country like Turkmenistan. This is because of the hot climate, attributed to the numerous deserts, and dry, sandy wind. Aside from these facts, there are actually a lot of interesting sites and places to visit in this Central Asian country.

One such city that is worth a visit is Ufra, also known as Mys Dashotakh. The central cities in this country, including Dashotakh, show how wealthy this region can be. The multitudes of great architectural wonders like mosques and buildings that depict cultural and religious aspects. They also have monuments and statues made of marble or even gold. This diverse structures exhibit the wealth of this country in as much as there are natural resources.

One way of enjoying your visit in this region is by avoiding the really hot season. Try going over in the months of April to June and September to Early January. The climate won’t be as hot as when they are in August where it reaches temperatures of up to 50°C.

Other people would consider traveling to the coastal regions and get a feel of the Caspian Sea. There are reasonable beaches with resort and hotels in the area. As well as restaurants and cafés that offer traditional as well as international dishes.

When travelling to any foreign land, always have the local currency handy. In Turkmenistan and Ufra, the currency is in Manat. This used to amount to 500 Rubles but was changed in 2009 when they came out with new Manat.

April 12, 2010 at 12:20 pm | No comment

Kaduna


Kaduna Airport
Photo by: Wikimedia, Creative Commons

Kaduna city is the capital of the Kaduna State in North Central Nigeria. Kaduna, which is situated on Kaduna River, is a business hub and a main transportation center for the neighboring agricultural regions. Kaduna is symbolized by a crocodile that is called Kada in native Hausa language.

History of Kaduna
Kaduna was discovered in 1913 by the British and became capital of the former Northern region of Nigeria in 1917. It kept this standing until year 1967.

The Kaduna Parade
People hailing from the city of Kaduna are Emmanuel, Fiona Fullerton (a former Bond girl and British actress), and Victor Moses and Celestine Babayaro (Nigerian football players).

Kaduna’s Transport and Economy
Kaduna city is an industrial hub of Northern Nigeria with industrialized products such as bearings, petroleum products, aluminum, steel, machinery and textiles.

Pottery is greatly priced in Kaduna, particularly from Maraban-Jos, which is close behind Minna and Abuja. The central highway through Kaduna is named the Ahmadu Bello Way. A lot of the names of the places are derived from former emirs, decorated Civil War heroes and sultans. Kaduna has a big market, newly rebuilt following a wide fire within the 1990s.

Kaduna has a big racecourse, about one mile around, inside which the Kaduna Crocodile Club and Ahmathe du Yakubu Polo Club are located, while the Rugby and Kaduna Clubs are on the border. The city has two airports, one being the Kaduna Airport. The head office of the Chanchangi Airlines is located in Kaduna city.

April 12, 2010 at 5:04 am | No comment

Cannes


Busy beach at Cannes, the French Riviera
Photo by: Bruce Tuten, Creative Commons

Cannes is a popular travel destination in the French Riviera at Cote d’Azur. Well known for its luxury shops, beaches and cafés, Cannes is an exciting city bustling with energy and excitement. Cannes has a Meditteranean climate and experiences warm summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Cannes is between the months of May and September where twelve hours of sunshine can be enjoyed.

Cannes is widely renowned for hosting the annual Cannes Film Festival that is usually held on May. The event is divided into various sections and there are juries selected to choose who will receive the awards. The most prestigious award given in the Cannes Film Festival is the Palme d’Or or the Golden Palm.

A visit to Cannes isn’t complete without a visit to…

Palais de Festivals et de Congres – This is the venue for the annual Cannes Film Festival. The Cannes Film Festival is perhaps the biggest and most prestigious film festival. During this time, world-famous celebrities come together to celebrate the event. Even after the festival, the glamour can still be felt and there are various convention centres that can be visited. Here, handprints of celebrities can also be seen.

Musee de la Castre – The Museum was built in the ruins of an old castle and houses an impressive array of Mediterranean artifacts from Iran, Cyprus, Syria and Egypt. There are also over two-hundred different musical instruments that can be seen here. The Museum also displays exquisite artwork by local painters that depict the life in Cannes.

Ile St. Marguerite – This Island is a fifteen-minute boat ride away from Cannes. It is well-known for being a fortress prison where it was claimed ‘The Man in The Iron Mask’ was imprisoned. Legend has it that this man spent eleven years trying to leave the island. The fortress prison, called Fort Royal, is now a hostel and features the Museum of the Sea or Musee de la Mer.

Promenade de la Croisette –means ‘Avenue of the Little Cross.’ This is a prominent walkway in Cannes that is two kilometers long and stretches along the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Many vendors and cafes line the sidewalk and is a great place to buy a little souvenir.

Musee de la Mer – This Museum features a unique and impressive collective of Marine archaeology. It is found in Ile St. Marguerite and is dedicated to the legend of ‘The Man in the Iron Mask.’

April 12, 2010 at 12:47 am | No comment

Lake Manyara National Park


The Quiet of Lake Manyara
Photo by: Stig Nygaard, Creative Commons

The Lake Manyara National Park is in Tanzania’ Arusha Region. Visiting this national park is the best way to experience the wilds and explore the jungles.

The region experiences the same tropical-equatorial climate with most of Tanzania. The climatic condition and fertile lands of the area have given birth to a rich forest. The land area of the park is a strip which is bordered at the west by the Gregory Rift. The Lake Manyara is at its eastern portion. It is also rich with wildlife, often dubbed as the complete “Tanzanian Safari experience.”

Visitors can organize guided game drives. They can even do game drives at night when several nocturnal animal species become active. The landscape is full of animals. The acacias of the woodlands have tree climbing lions. There are mongooses and cheetahs too. The grassy floodplains of the park are full zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes and giraffes. It is breathtaking to see them in herds of large numbers.

Lake Manyara is also perfect for bird watching. Several ornithologists also visit the place observe hundreds of migratory bird species. There are about 400 types of bird in this national park. There are more bird species during the wet season—November to June. Coinciding with Eurasia’s winter months, more birds migrate to Tanzania.
People can also enjoy the park’s magnificent waterfalls during wet season. They can also go canoeing too, when the water level is high enough.

Tourists have plenty of choices for a place to stay. There is a luxury tree house camp inside the Manyara National Park. There are public campsites too. Several top-rated lodges are built on the Gregory Rift, providing a scenic view of the beautiful lake.

April 11, 2010 at 6:35 pm | No comment

Frederiksted


Frederiksted harbor
Photo by: divemasterking2000, Creative Commons

Every trip, whether you are going abroad or you intend to visit certain sites at your own country, should be well-planned. This way, you will be able to experience all great possible things, sights and activities on the places where you intend to go. You need not really go far to enjoy your vacation. You can do this while touring certain US State or its cities. If you happen to be in the U.S. Virgin Islands, you might as well spend time looking at the sights and beautiful spots at one of its cities, the Frederiksted.

The Frederiksted, U.S. Virgin Islands is located 17 miles far from the west coast of the island. This is closer at the airport than neighboring city, Christiansted, but this is smaller in terms of size. The harbor of Frederiksted is able to attract cruise ships on a weekly basis. Its ancient buildings and sights were almost destroyed on the huge fire that took place in 1879.

At the Strand Street’s main strip, you will enjoy certain activities like shopping and eating out. The place may not be famous for these kinds of enjoyment, but when it comes to sights, there are many options that you can feast your eyes on. You surely wouldn’t want to miss visiting the Fort Frederik with a museum and art gallery inside. You must also take souvenirs from St Paul’s Anglican Church and St Patrick’s Catholic Church. It is advisable to enjoy the tour during the day as it may not be safe to walk about the town during the evening unlike in other cities such as the Christiansted.

April 11, 2010 at 5:42 pm | No comment

Perm


Perm, the countryside
Photo by: Marywhotravels, Creative Commons

Perm is a city in Russia, the biggest country in the world and a major world power, as you may already know from history lessons and news and current affairs. If you’re going to visit the Russian Federation, don’t just stroll through Moscow and St. Petersburg, its two biggest and most important cities (if it’s even possible to stroll through them, that is). Explore other cities such as Perm.

Perm is situated in the eastern European side of the country, on the Kama River. It is the administrative center of Perm Oblast. In 1957, it was merged with Molotovo, hence its having been called Molotov for 17 years. The name Perm was readopted in 1957. (The name’s origin is probably Veps or Komi, “Parma” meaning, “a hilly place covered with woods” in Komi-Permyak language, and “Pera maa” or “Perama” meaning “distant land” in Veps. The name is also believed to be the Permian geologic period’s namesake.)

Perm has a continental climate. Summers are warm while winters are long and cold. The city’s current population is more than 1,000,000. Residents and tourists alike can travel by plane via the international airport, Bolshoye Savino Airport. Public transportation choices include trams, buses, and trolleybuses. You can also make use of the Trans-Siberian Railway lines passing through the city and radiating toward Central Russia and other parts of the country. If you wish to take the water route, the Kama River connects Perm with European waterways, and through the body of water you can ship cargo to the White, Azov, Baltic, Caspian, and Black sea ports without reloading.

Tourist spots include the Perm Opera and Ballet House, which is the one of the best in the country. Many other theaters exist in Perm, including the Puppet Theater, Drama Theater, Theater for Young Spectators, and Theatre “Near Bridge.” The Perm State Art Gallery houses in its early 19th-century structure outstanding art collections widely recognized, such as paintings from the art movements of the 15th to18th century. The museum’s spire pierces the sky and towers over the rest of the city as it is located on the Komsomolsky Prospect.

April 10, 2010 at 10:54 pm | 2 comments

Malé


Male’ skyline and neighborhood, all around you see the ocean
Photo by: Mariyath, Creative Commons

Male is the capital of Maldives. In the past, it was called the Sultan’s Island.
Currently, it is the seat of government, the commercial center, and the home to many religious and historical landmarks of the country. It has an area of about 1.77 square kilometers and has a population of over 6,000. It is definitely the most populous and busiest island in the whole archipelago.

There are a number of magnificent landmarks you should not miss when you are in Male, Maldives. For one, there is the Grand Friday Mosque. It is the largest in Maldives which includes an Islamic Center. The mosque is famous for its golden dome which adorns the face of Male. The mosque can accommodate more than 5,000 worshippers at one time.

Other significant sites in Male are the Presidential Palace (Mulee-aage), the tombs of the legendary saints, and the National Museum located in the Sultan Park. This museum bears the many memories of the archipelago’s glories in the past.

Now, if you wish to know more about the capital and how people live their daily routines, the best places to go are the markets. The fruit and vegetable market, as well as the firewood market, are colorful and busy places you would enjoy. They are immaculately clean until the clock strikes around 4 in the afternoon when the fisher-folk start arriving with their day’s catch.

Lastly, Male is also a great place to shop for imported items, although almost every shop also sells local handicrafts. If you wish to give unique presents to friends when you get back, then you will surely find great buys here.

April 10, 2010 at 12:19 pm | No comment

Surat Thani


Surat Thani Airport
Photo by: Rudolf Stricker, Creative Commons

Thailand, an independent country, is a City of Good People which they dubbed as Surat Thani. This city’s charm and beauty can get the attention of people from all of the seven continents of the planet. With a tropical climate, this will sure be one of the most comfortable and relaxing destinations you could ever have.

Closely situated at the famous Gulf of Thailand, you can see the City Pillar Shrine wherein the house of city’s spirit deity can be observed. It is a peach-colored edifice that will welcome you with their two doors. Another intriguing sight is the two birds that carries a lantern with their beaks in front of the building that gradually leaves wonder for tourists.

The Southwest Pinnacle is a 30-meter deep white sand beach that has lots of wonders when explored under water. The limestone and granite hills, colorful rocks, sea anemones and soft corals are the elements seen on the attractions. When you dive deeper, you will see the porcupine fish, butterfly fish, zebra shark and smaller reef fishes harmonizing with corals. However, you should be cautious with diving and ask for an assistance of a mooring line for a more convenient and safe diving experience.

The Red Rock or commonly known as the Shark Island is also ideal for learning divers. The water is shallow and clear so monitoring would be far easier than deep areas. Occasional sharks can be seen here as well together with turtles and colorful corals. As for the Green Rock, it is more famous for having swim-through caverns that serves as a home for numerous shark species and endearing angelfishes. Together, these rocks made Thailand’s tourism increase in just a short span of time.

Being the largest south province of the country, Surat Thani surely proved itself to all people who witnessed their potential as a must-see tourist attraction in Asia. The pagoda of Phra Boromathat Chaiya has been standing in this place for centuries and never failed to impress its viewers. You will definitely have an unforgettable experience here in Surat Thani once you pay it a visit.

April 10, 2010 at 11:23 am | No comment

Port Antonio


Port Antonio Cruise waiting
Photo by: dubdem sound system, Creative Commons

Port Antonio, the capital of the parish of Portland, is known as a major tourist destination in Jamaica whereas tourism is a great contributor to its economy. In addition, it is a trade point for bananas and coconuts as the location of the third largest port in Jamaica.

It is the home of some of the most beautiful natural attractions such as beaches, waterfalls, and lagoons. Before the 1880s, Port Antonio is a very inactive town. The introduction of the banana trade was the start of its springing up to its feet and becoming a tourist spot frequented by rich Americans.

It is almost as if you are visiting a place in a different era while in Port Antonio. Its beauty and grandeur is overwhelmingly charming.

Food and Dining

Satisfying your taste buds is not difficult in Port Antonio. It is a place with a wide selection of restaurants mainly because it is a resort area. Most restaurants offer a combination of Caribbean and Continental cuisine like Mille Fleurs (Jamaican meets Continental cuisine), Dickie’s Best Kept Secret (Jamaican and European cuisine), San Tropez (Continental cuisine), and Anna Bananas Restaurant (Seafood and Jamaican cuisine)

Attractions

The natural beauty of Port Antonio is exquisite and remarkable. It has many tourist destinations that you dare not miss while visiting this calm and unique town.

Frenchman’s Cove. It is a secluded resort that offers a magnificent view of white sand and fresh water stream. It has the rich assortment of Jamaican flowers that attracts wildlife into it.

The Blue Lagoon. A natural lagoon decorated by a natural beauty that shows you a beautiful hue of blue in the waters which changes as the sun lit it from different angles.

Folly Point Lighthouse. A lighthouse that is built in 1888.

Folly Ruins Mansion. An old Roman styled villa built in 1905 by Alfred Mitchell intended to be his home together with his wife’s, Annie Tiffany. The Mitchell’s lived in the mansion until Alfred’s death in 1911 and the subsequent start of the First World War which led to Annie’s return to the US. From then on, the mansion has been abandoned.

Rio Grande Valley. A panoramic view of the Rio Grande River can be exciting and exhilarating especially when combined with the water sports you can try in the area.

April 9, 2010 at 10:41 pm | No comment

Barka


Bukha fort
Photo by: octal, Creative Commons

When people go to Oman, they either choose to go to the bigger cities like Muscat or Salalah but if you want to get a feel for the real soul of Oman, you might want to consider heading north and going to Barka, Oman. This place is currently being slowly developed as a tourist resort area with a new quarter called the Blue City being constructed in Suwadi. Such a development is considered a welcome addition to the lovely coastal town of Barka which has quite a number of attractions that tourists will surely love.

One such attraction is the Sur ar Rumays Fort which is a crumbling structure that has never been restored but is a true testament to the history of the region. Another interesting fort that you may want to visit in the area is the Al Na’man Fort which is usually open at seven in the morning and offers visitors free entrance until it closes at 6 pm.

If you want to experience an age-old sport that involves two bulls in Barka, then you might want to check out the bull butting events that happen here. This usually happens on a Friday so better ask around if there are to be bull butting events in the area before then.

The city of Barka is around 60 miles away from Muscat and you can get there easily with a rental car. There are a number of affordable hotels you can stay at in Barka and a few high-end beach resorts that you can stay at as well.

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

Nyala


Taxi, one way to get around in Nyala
Photo by: Stein Ove Korneliussen, Creative Commons

Whether you’re searching for fun in the sand, a trip to the K2 restaurant for mouth-watering dishes, or if you just want to see great Islamic architecture, then Nyala, Sudan is the place to go. It is the capital of South Darfur state and is the trading place for gum Arabic. It’s a highly industrial city as it produces textile, local food products and leather goods. There are branches of the Agricultural Bank of Sudan here as well as the Peoples Cooperative Bank. Nyala has a great domestic airport and terminus ends of both road and railway. No way will a tourist feel lost in this very urbane and organized city.

Nyala is famous for the Amel Center, a treatment and rehabilitation center for the tortured victims in Nyala. It is run by Mossaad Mohamed Ali Mossaad and former UN Secretary General Kofi Anan. There is also a refugee camp here called Kalma. Both centers were put up for the internally displaced persons who were affected during the Darfur conflict. Nutrition programs also take place here.

Nyala is currently occupied by an ethnic group called Daju, who refer to Nyala as the place of chatting or the theatre. The oldest sultanate capital, which is located on the foot of the Darfur massif, is the perfect place for mountain trekking, especially on Jabal Marra, the highest mountain.

Nyala boasts of archaeological materials of ancient antiquities, pottery, engraved pictures of war, horses and animals still waiting to be discovered and recognized. Nari, Kedingyir, Dobo, Simiat Hills, Jebel Kaima and Kalokitting are only a few of the undiscovered and untapped archaeological sites in Nyala. Nyala, is indeed a place that’s perfect not just for tourist in search of nice sites, but also those who want to be learned regarding the African culture.

April 9, 2010 at 6:25 pm | No comment

Malbun


Mountain Chapel
Photo by: vauvau, Creative Commons

Whether you are a ski lover or not, you will definitely love Malbun. Close to Triesenberg, Liechtenstein at the Alps Mountain is the ski resort of Malbun. It is situated 1600 meters or 5,200 feet above the sea. Malbun can be reached by means of riding a train.

Malbun never runs out of activities. It offers various winter sports activities which cater to professionals and also to those who just want to have a good time. Here, you can enjoy archery, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, snowboarding, etc. There are also tons of different activities which can be enjoyed during the summer season.

After a long day of activities, be sure to get ready for a sumptuous meal. Aside from having the perfect ski resort, Malbun has excellent restaurants which will delight anyone’s taste buds. Since Malbun is a ski resort, expect the temperature to be really low. It is absolutely necessary to bring the right clothes to battle the cold. Otherwise, the perfect vacation might just turn into a nightmare.

For those who are not winter sports lovers, they can enjoy other activities such as golfing, biking, rock climbing, and tennis. Depending on the season and what your resort has to offer, there are absolutely unlimited things to do in Malbun, Liechtenstein. However, it is still best to choose a hotel that is located at the center so that traveling to other sites would be easier and more accessible. From Malbun, it is quite easy to go to other parts of Liechtenstein.

April 9, 2010 at 5:17 pm | No comment

Ayoun el Atrous


Ayoun el Atrous Main Road
Photo by: 300td.org, Creative Commons

Do you want to go to a place where the 2007 Car Rally passed through? It would be a lovely and exciting place to add to your itinerary this season! Go to Ayoun el Atrous and you will relive the experience of actually being at the same place where cars and motorcycles zoomed past to reach the finish line. It is of course the adventure of a lifetime should you visit a place like Ayoun el Atrous whose other name could also be Ayoun al Atrous should you search for it in the Internet for hotels and other things to do there.

It is such a thrill if you’d rent a car to go through different places here in Mauritania. The terrain is crazy so you’d really hit the extreme ride so better choose the four wheel drives for a good time on the sand. Speaking of sand, there are no sandstorms lately since the weather showed good signs of partly cloudy and partly sunny so it would just be a breeze that would be coming your way. Amounting to gusts of 10mph, the breeze would just blow your hat off your head so better wear a cap.

So what else would you do at Ayoun el Atrous, Mauritania? There are different market stalls there that cater to the local products like rugs, carpets and handicrafts. Mauritania is a cattle territory that’s why even their products being sold are part and parcel of their main means of livelihood.

April 9, 2010 at 2:58 pm | No comment

Harar


Harar
Photo by: Giustino, Creative Commons

Harar is one of the few remaining walled cities in the world. It stands at the Eastern wall of the Great Rift Valley and serves as the provincial capital of the country’s largest administrative region, Harare. The city gives a wonderful view of the Danakil desert and the majestic Hara Mountains. The Ogaden plains to the south add beauty to the city’s location. Until 1887, the city was forbidden and enforces fierce religious rules throughout. Only after Menelik gained central rule did the city opened up.

The religiosity of the people makes it unsurprising that the city is dotted with 99 mosques. The Grand Mosque, considered to be the fourth most holy city in Islam, is located within its walls.

The city boasts a rich collection or traditional art. The Medhane Alem Church is the town’s center and houses the most exotic of the art collections. Agriculture and economy of the region bring the marketplace of Harar to be most colourful in Ethiopia.

It is also host for coffee beans sourced from the Ahmar Mountains which are considered to the best in all of Ethiopia. Harar is further famed for its skilled silversmiths where beautiful necklaces, chains, and bracelets can be bought. The basketry is also very impressive for the town is also regarded to produce baskets in the most exquisite designs.

The surprises of Harar do not end here. The usual visitor always finds something personally special in the town’s marketplace. It is easily reachable by buses and trains. Air travel is also possible in Dire Dawa, which is nearer to the town.

April 9, 2010 at 2:22 pm | 1 comment

Monte Carlo


Overlooking Monte Carlo
Photo by: Kjunstorm, Creative Commons

When you think of Monte Carlo, Monaco, you think of romance and adventure. You envision images and scenes you can only see in romance novels. There is no wonder why so many tourists are enamored to visit the dream called Monte Carlo, Monaco. The city has celebrated more than 700 years of the Grimaldi Family Dynasty.

Monaco is actually the world’s second smallest country, the first place owned by the Vatican. This pint sized country is a sovereign state and spoke the traditional Monegasque and French dialect. Monte Carlo, Monaco is known worldwide for its famed Monte Carlo Casino, the Grand Prix and Formula One cars, and of course, the prestigious royal family, the Grimaldis.

Here are some tourist sights and attractions worth visiting:

Cathedrale de Monaco – many visitors flock to the Romanesque-Byzantine Cathedral to catch a glimpse of the graves of the fairytale couple Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace Kelly.

Digue de l’Avant Port – Unwind and take a stroll around the port and head on to the Digue de l’Avant Port. It is a 28 meter wide floating dike and weighing at 163,000 tons.

Monaco Formula One Grand Prix – Want an adrenaline fix? Head on to the Grand Prix—you’ll love the smell of gasoline and burned tires.

Parc Fontvieille – if you want a pleasant walk around the park, visit the lush gardens of Park Fontvieielle. It is more than pleasant—in fact that word is an understatement. With more than 4,000 rose bushes, an enchanting lake filled with swans, and magnificent sculptures, it feels like something out of a fairy tale.

April 9, 2010 at 12:51 pm | No comment

Skopje


Center of Skopje, Macedonia Square
Photo by: Wikipedia, Creative Commons

Skopje is the Macedonia’s capital city whose hybrid cultures are apparent to visitors arriving for the first time. It is one of the few cities which have perfected the art of combining the old with the new in terms of culture, art, and infrastructure.
When you arrive at Skopje, you should drop by the Kale fortress walls and the Stone Bridge across River Vardar. Being on top of the hill where the fortress walls are located, you will be able to see the whole city of Skopje. Observing from up above the hilltop will definitely leave you breathless because of the fantastic view of the city of Skopje.

People who prefer extreme adventures and activities while in Skopje may try hiking and mountain climbing in the slop of Mt. Vodno. The lush trees that grow in the mountain and the wildlife that lives in it are very important to preserving the ecosystem balance in Skopje. And so far, visitors have been kind enough in helping protect the place from devastation.
And true to its contemporary feel, especially in the heart of the city, Skopje features the most modern infrastructures serving food, offering lodging services, and providing a place where tourists can buy their souvenirs. Restaurants range from fine dining to local food places where one can eat the native food in Skopje. And malls offer wide ranges of shopping items that might interest foreigners.

So if you want to have a one of a kind adventure in a place where nature an modernity coexists, book a flight to Skopje, Macedonia now.

April 9, 2010 at 12:32 pm | No comment

Star Dorjan


Dorjan Lake
Photo by: Ukulelea, Creative Commons

Dojran is a community situated around the Dojran lake. Mostly, people who live here are fishermen who found a conducive community beside their means of livelihood. But Dojran is actually divided into two settlements: Nov Dojran or the new settlement, and Star Dojran or the old settlement. Star Dojran has been a particular favorite among tourists because of its scenic tourist spots and its local restaurants.

Going to Star Dojran should not be a problem because it can be reached by taking a train ride from the capital. People in Macedonia are very friendly so if in case you were lost, all you need to do is to ask them for instructions on how to reach the place you want to reach.

Being a Mediterranean country, Star Dojran has a warm climate. People enjoy how accommodations in Star Dojran are priced cheaply. For only 100€ you can already spend a good night’s sleep at Villa Dojrana. This is also a good come on for tourists who stay longer in Star Dojran because of the cheap accommodations.

Like other cities in Macedonia, Star Dojran also has a flourishing night life. Alcoholic beverages range from beer and brandy to expensive wines and can be bought per bottle or per glass. This is also a form of socialization, time for meeting new friends. And of course, parties and all-night long dancing I part of bar hopping so remember to bring a comfortable pair of footwear for this activity. Visit Star Dojran and see what more it is has to offer you.

April 9, 2010 at 12:02 pm | No comment