Cabo San Lucas


Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Photo by: Lisa Andres , Creative Commons

Do you want to try an adventure of a lifetime? You may want to check what Cabo San Lucas, Mexico has to offer. This is popularly known as “Los Cabos” in Mexico, a city located on the southern tip of Baja California peninsula. With its alluring beauty, it has become a world renowned tourist destination attracting many people from around the world. The scenery will captivate you, and take your breath away. A casual beach atmosphere mixed with an exciting nightlife will make a memorable and fun vacation.
Many of the events happening in the city are weddings. Because of the scenery and the relaxing feel the tourists experience, many more couples decide to marry here.
For pure pleasure, fun and adventure, try the many water sports like para sailing, surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling or just simply relax and enjoy nature for what it has to offer. After a long day activities try one of the many restaurants such as:

1. El Squid Roe

2. Villa Serena

3. Cabo Wabo Cantina

4. Pancho’s

5. Arrecifes

6. Misiones de Kino

7. El Coral

What are the top things you can do at Cabo San Lucas? First, try whale watching during December through March. Second, you may want to try Baja off-roading, where you can discover the desert through an ATV or jeep. Since the area is coastal, the third activity you can try is sportfishing at San Andreas Fault where you can see first hand different species of fish. Diving is another activity that pleases many crowds. For relaxation, the fifth activity you can do is sunbathing. These are a few of the choices to choose from, check out more of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico and discover it yourself.

March 2, 2010 at 2:52 am | 1 comment

Krakow


Krakow City in Poland
Photo by: bazylek, Creative Commons

If you are planning to have a tour of Europe and Poland is one of the countries you are visiting, do not make the mistake of missing Krakow in Poland. This city is filled with unique historical relics that come from the rich legends it has been famous for. It boasts of being the seat of kings and the source of the world’s famous artists and scholars. The same imagination and talents of these people been etched in their culture as well as the famous spots that you can now visit, reflecting the European culture’s important trends.

Truly, Krakow has not been Poland’s capital for centuries without leaving some type of legacy. The city is surrounded in legends. It has the Royal Castle of Wawel where you are likely to hear about the dangerous dragon tales. You can also visit the city’s resurgent districts such as Podgorze and Kazimierz. You will surely find delight in Ojcow National Park and Salt Mines. You will love the historical pavilions of the Cloth Hall. You will never forget the market square where you can feed the hero pigeons while listening to the hejnal bugle call which is very famous in that place. You should not miss the Auschwitz and hear about the horrors that took place at this location.

Today’ Krakow is no longer the country’s capital and has ceased to play a vital administrative role. Due to its very rich history however, it managed to represent the synergy of everything Polish and allowed for the combination of both tradition and modernity. Inside the mysterious and old streets of Kazimierz and Old Town, you will find the modern cozy cafes, fancy restaurants and hip bars that have already become an integral part of Krakow. You will not run out of comfortable hotels and apartments to stay in when you visit the city.

To know more about the city and what it can offer you, you simply have to visit different sites online that will give you a complete guideline on what you can do to have an unforgettable visit at Krakow, Poland.

March 2, 2010 at 2:17 am | 1 comment

San Pedro de Macoris

San Pedro de Macoris can be found on the Southern Coast of the Dominican Republic. The capital and the province share the same name. As of 2002, 200,000 citizens inhabit the province. San Pedro de Macoris is proud of its famous university called Universidad Central del Este. It has been in existence since 1970 and it is owned by a private sector. Initially, San Pedro de Macoris is not known for its tourism industry. The people who used to come here were mostly Cubans who wanted to escape their country ravaged by the War of Independence in the 19th century. The largest contributor of the province’s economy is the sugar cane industry. It is also the legacy of the first Cuban settlers.

San Pedro de Macoris is the home town of a famous baseball team who participated in the Dominican Winter League. The league is celebrated from the month of November to February of next year. The most notable game called Estadio Tetelo Vargas was played in the city’s multipurpose stadium. This is where major games are held and it can accommodate up to eight thousand visitors. The city is also referred to as the “Cradle of Shortcaps”. There are currently seventy native San Pedro de Macoris baseball players playing in the major league.

Just like any town or provinces found in the Dominican Republic, San Pedro de Macoris has plenty of beautiful beaches. The beaches are the main tourist attractions and they see plenty of action all year round. Aside for that, San Pedro de Macoris also has an old church located in San Pedro which is a must-see for tourists and also the city’s marketplace. You can dig in their favourite local snack called Patelones en hojas which are sold abundantly in the Central Park. Its main ingredient is banana and it is a delicacy available only in San Pedro de Macoris.

March 2, 2010 at 12:34 am | No comment

Soldeu


Mountain Peak in Soldeu, Andorra
Photo by: borkurdotnet, Creative Commons

While not as popular as other towns in Andorra, Soldeu is still a great place to spend the holidays, especially with family and friends. It is located at the Pyrenees so the average temperature in Soldeu is quite cold, even during the warmer months. Soldeu is not really renowned for being an exciting and fun town but it is still cheerful and very picturesque offering many family oriented activities.

• Skiing – Soldeu is well-known as a great place to learn skiing. Because of the smoother terrain, Soldeu is mostly geared for beginners and children who want to enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding.
• Shopping – Since it is located at the border of Spain and France, Andorra enjoys a duty-free status. However, unlike most places in Andorra the stores and shops in Soldeu are not numerous as compared to its neighboring towns. Still, you can find many good deals and fine quality items in Soldeu, particularly clothes and souvenirs.
• Summer activities – In the winter, skiing and snowboarding are the most popular activities in Soldeu, and during the summer months, many people visit Soldeu to enjoy canoeing, whitewater rafting, mountain climbing and hiking. There are many trails located in Soldeu, both for beginners and expert hikers. There are 16 different hiking trails in Soldeu, with the more challenging going all the way to the highest peak located 2942m above the ground.
• Dining – Aside from the local flavors, the restaurants in Soldeu also offer Italian, French and Spanish influenced cuisines.
• Nightlife – While not as happening and loud as its neighbors, Soldeu still has plenty of clubs and bars that are open until the early morning with cheap drinks and lively music.

March 1, 2010 at 8:03 pm | 1 comment

Winnipeg


Winnipeg, Canada
Photo by: gurdonark, Creative Commons

A place can be considered as a gem when you see its beauty because you’ve experienced it. Try considering Winnipeg, Canada on your wish lists of places to travel. For some background on the city; it is the 7th largest municipality in Canada with a population of 633,451 in 2006. It has a humid continental climate, characterized by a conflict of polar and tropical air masses. The diversity of the city comes from the mixtures of various cultures from other countries merged into one. Expect different colors and experiences when you visit various areas around the city.

What should you expect from this city? Some outdoor activities to enjoy are golf, water sports at the lakes and rivers, or a stroll along the parks and garden. You can also check out the buildings and structures throughout the city and be amazed by the beauty. You can also visit some museums for entertainment designed for kids that could also be educational.

• Leo Mol Sculpture Garden

• Exchange District Guided Walking Tour

• Ten Spa at Fort Garry Hotel

• Sir Hugh John Macdonald House Dalnavert

• Forks National Historic Site

• Winnipeg Art Gallery

• McPhillips Street Station Casino

Experience dining Winnipeg style and check the limitless options you will surely love and enjoy. A vacation will not be complete if you do not try something new. Some of the more popular restaurants are:

• Provence Bistro

• The Current

• Sydneys At The Forks

• Muddy Waters Smokehouse

When it comes to lodging, Winnipeg hotels offer a variety of options and price ranges.

• The Marlborough Hotel
• Fort Garry Hotel
• Place Louis Riel Suite Hotel

Or you may opt to stay at a Bed and Breakfast style hotel for a comfortable stay.

• L’Auberge Clemence Inn on the Prairie B&B and Tea House
• Oakdale B & B
• River Gate Inn
• Terry’s Bed and Breakfast

Try new things and be adventurous, who knows maybe you could see and experience a jewel hiding in Winnipeg, Canada.

March 1, 2010 at 7:36 pm | No comment

Madaba


The church at Mount Nebo, Jordan
Photo by: Verity , Creative Commons

Also known as the “City of Mosaics”, Madaba, Jordan is the first city you will come to when you go on a trip south of Amman though the 5000-year old King’s Highway. Passing through the ancient sites of the town is definitely one of the most memorable trips you could ever go on.

Madaba is very much like all the other East Bank towns aside from one exceptional aspect: underneath almost all its houses remains a Byzantine mosaic– all at their finest. Many of these mosaics have been excavated and displayed in the town’s museum.

When you visit Madaba, one site you should definitely explore is the contemporary Greek Orthodox St. George Church. Its sixth century Byzantine Mosaic map shows the whole region from Jordan to Palestine in the north and then Egypt to the south. Another spot to visit is the Archaeological Museum where you can find other mosaics portraying the scenes of mythology and the daily pursuits of the ancient people between the 5th and the 7th centuries.

Madaba, Jordan was ransacked by the Persians in year 614 and the earthquake of 747 completed its ruins. For over one thousand years, it was abandoned, until a group of about 2000 Christians in 1880 settled here. From then on, the process of rebuilding the town started.

March 1, 2010 at 7:26 pm | No comment

Cesky Krumlov


Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
Photo by: donald judge , Creative Commons

Have you ever imagined yourself being transported back to old medieval times? Well, you need no time machine as you only have to visit the Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic to experience the grandeur of the old life. Cesky Krumlov is a small city with a big title. It was awarded the UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Prague Castle District.

The Cesky Krumlov Castle is enormous considering the area of the district in which it was built. Inside the castle, you will see a huge garden, a wide and extensive bridge that connects the gap between the rock where the castle was built and the castle itself. It is made up of many defined parts which actually date back from different time periods.

Somebody with appreciation for historical and intricate architecture could definitely feel at home in Cesky Krumlov. People who find pleasure in visiting historical places as well as seeing different designs of complex infrastructure can enjoy the likes of St. Vitus church which is of Gothic style dating back to the 15th century and the castle’s Baroque Theater. The city also has a museum that hosts the works of the painter Egon Schiele for art lovers and collectors.

You can also visit the old monasteries of Zlata Koruna or The Golden Crown. If you would like hiking, you can always go to Sumava National Park which is the country’s largest national park and get some exercise while seeing the natural beauty of the place.

The great thing about visiting Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic is that you get a taste of another world which a dream getaway to break the monotony of life. The climate is perfect any time of the year for a visit. But if you want to experience some of their best celebrations in town, why not consider the month of June when the best known Five-Petalled Rose Festival is being held.

March 1, 2010 at 6:37 pm | No comment

Santorini


Boating in Santorini, Greece
Photo by: lyng883 , Creative Commons

Santorini, Greece is what can be called a volcanic island. It is well known for its remarkable views and spectacular sunsets. It also has beautiful beaches and an active volcano. Its finest beach, the Perissa beach as well as the Kamari black pebble beach are famous to tourists. It also has the Red Beach, which has red sand, and the White Beach. Furthermore, the Akrotiri, which is a town similar to Pompeii in the sense that both have been preserved in volcanic ash, is found here. Its ruins are perfectly preserved, so the streets and buildings can still be clearly seen. Tourists can also see the preserved frescoes, as well as, pottery. However, they should remember to buy bottled water because the water in Santorini is not really clean.

Santorini is also known as Thira. Its capital, Fira, has so many good structural designs. Imerovigli, which is near Fira, has really stunning sunset views. Oia also has great sunsets, and is the island’s most lovely place. And because of Santorini’s unique beauty, many Greek, Brazilian, and Hollywood celebrities have chosen it to be their movie and video settings. Nevertheless, the best time to visit Santorini is during the months of March to November. During these months, the weather is beautiful. December, January, and February are off-season months. Majority of the business establishments and hotels are closed at these times. And there are usually no crowds in sight.

Tourists can get around in public buses, rented cars and ATVs, scooters, and other four-wheelers. However, it is very important that one has a license to be able to rent such vehicles; because taxis, as well as bicycles are not abundant here. Tourists can also get around on foot. The routes from the town of Fira to the town of Oia are especially amazing. And since Santorini is regarded as a natural wonder, its landscapes and seascapes are actually the main attractions. But of course, many worthwhile activities are what attract tourists. They can go to fine wineries and walk around the towns. They can also climb to look at Ancient Thira, and even the monastery to see the amazing views of the beaches and the ocean. And of course, they can go snorkeling and scuba diving on the fine beach resorts. The Mesa Pigadia and Perissa Rock are beaches recommended for snorkeling. But the tourists can also ride horses in Exo Gonia.

March 1, 2010 at 6:31 pm | No comment

Kyrenia


Kyrenia, Cyprus
Photo by: Danny Sullivan , Creative Commons

Kyrenia is located in the northern part of Cyprus. It is a scenic port with only twenty-two thousand residents. Kyrenia is the most well known destination for tourists in the north. Perhaps, the most recommended way to travel around is to use a car. Public transportation is less preferred, that is why there are many cars available for rent. Lapta Dolmus or buses in central Kyrenia are also available for easy access toward the beaches of western Kyrenia.

The Kyrenia Castle is among the popular tourist attractions of Kyrenia. It is a very old castle with an undefined origin. However, it is perceived to be built in the seventh century by the Byzantines. It was used as a penitentiary by its colonizers several centuries back. The Shipwreck Museum is also an interesting attraction. It is found inside the Kyrenia Castle, and the famous preserved ancient shipwreck is housed here. The wreckage is of a wooden mercantile ship that dates back to 306 BC. It was found along the Kyrenian coast in 1967. Amazingly, the goods found inside its four hundred clay jugs remained intact. Moreover, lots of other fun activities may be done in Kyrenia other than visiting these historical attractions. Golfing, walking, scuba diving, paragliding, and turtle watching are really entertaining. Touring on boats is also an enjoyable way to explore the sea and shores.

Many restaurants with good food are abundant here in Kyrenia. Traditional cuisines such as meze, flat breads, kebab, and lahmacun must be tried. There are also many markets selling fresh vegetables and fruits, as well as, meats and cheeses. Bars such as the Runch Bar and Roxanne are accessible. Moreover, the Bellapais is a great place to explore. Plenty of sophisticated restaurants are located here. And comfortable five-star hotels like The Colony Hotel are also available for a lovely stay.

March 1, 2010 at 5:32 pm | No comment

Essaouira


Essaouira, Morocco
Photo by: hemflock , Creative Commons

One of the most attractive cities in Morocco is Essaouira. The name Eassaouira is the equivalent of “image” and nothing can be more appropriate because it is a picture-perfect place. This is also a popular place among famous artists like Orson Welles, Bob Marley, and Jimi Hendrix, to name a few. The setting itself is a great inspiration for budding artists—from poets to musicians to painters.

This creative city in Morocco is located along the coast, though it cannot really be classified as a beach town. You can see many culturally different things in the harbour like fishermen unloading their catches, locals and tourists alike bargaining with vendors, and people eating sizzling sea foods in noisy and colourful souks.

Aside from these activities, there are also many places that you can visit in Essaouira, Morocco. One place is the l’Atelier Madada, a restaurant that serves traditional Moroccan dishes. In this restaurant, you will experience eating the most delectable Moroccan dishes which made this cuisine one of the bests.

Another fun activity that you can do in Essaouira, Morocco is to ride a quad bike. Palmaquad offers tourists a three-hour tour around the city using a quad bike. The guides are kind and very helpful plus they will give you a collection of photos on a CD. This is a great addition especially since you are too busy driving the quad bike to take pictures.

If you are into horseback riding, you should try Zouina-cheval. You might need to spend a week or so in Morocco because Zouina-cheval is a two-day, one-night night trek on horses. The guide is very friendly and funny and the whole trek is pretty amazing. You will experience sleeping under a blanket of dark blue sky sprinkled with bright stars while inside your tent. You will also see the sun setting down before you go to sleep and experience waking up hearing the waves crashing to the shore.

March 1, 2010 at 4:57 pm | No comment

Vieques Island


Vieques Island, Puerto Rico
Photo by: donohermark , Creative Commons

Vieques Island, Puerto Rico is a municipality in island form of Puerto Rico. The island still has the strong influences of the Spanish even though Puerto Rico has been a territory of United States. Vieques has two major towns which are the Ezperanza and Isabel Segunda. Vieques is known as a testing and bombing range ground by the Navy. This resulted to a series of protests by locals and later succeeded when the Navy fled away in 2003.

For many years, Vieques Island, Puerto Rico was closed for the Navy’s use. The island has very few economic sources and completely not developed for tourism. This negative side of the island has become their main key in promoting tourism. Because the island has merely not been used, the place was known as a sleepy, deserted and unspoiled island that made tourists want to come and experience the virgin and fresh ambiance of the place.

The Vieques Island, Puerto Rico has two perfect bioluminescent bays and feral horses running wild on the island. Bioluminescent Bay is also called Bio Bay is considered the brightest and largest in the world. Aside from the beaches, you can also experience their beautiful attractions such as museums, City Hall, the ceiba tree which is 300 years old, ports, sugarcane plantation and underground bunkers of the US Navy. They also showcase colorful activities and festivals. The Epiphany Festival is held every January, the Passion Play held every Holy Week, Cultural Festivals every March or April, every June you will capture the Traditional Festivities of the town and the Christmas Festival every December.

March 1, 2010 at 4:46 am | 1 comment

Cayo Santa Maria


Cayo Santa Maria, Cuba
Photo by: anaoo, Creative Commons

Cayo Santa Maria is a small island located in the province of Villa Clara. Cayo, in Spanish, means “Small Island”due to it measuring only 13 kilometers long. This area is situated north of Santa Clara at the archipelago of Jardines del Rey. There are only three large hotels on this remote island.

The best places to stay are the Sol Cayo Santa Maria and Villa Las Brujas. These two resorts are the perfect place for nature lovers. The place provides a very good location for relaxation. Many tourists love to sun bathe on the white sandy beaches of Cayo Santa Maria under coconut trees, quietly listening to the sound of the sea.

After enjoying a day of relaxation, tourists may also choose to have some adventure. Most of the resorts offer scuba diving as well as other water activities which are truly enjoyable. Cayo Santa Maria boasts of its beautiful coral reefs. It is very safe for children with their families to enjoy snorkeling in the sea of colorful fishes and corals because of the gentle wind. These reefs have been called underwater landscapes because of their unbelievable beauty. The UNESCO even declared Cayo Santa Maria as “Reserve of the Biosphere” after carefully exploring the area’s natural beauty.

The island is located at the far end of the main land. Thus, it houses unspoiled beaches and virgin forests. However, tourists would not have a hard time reaching the area because it is connected to mainland Cuba by means of a 48 kilometer causeway

March 1, 2010 at 3:08 am | No comment

Sandanski


River in Sandanski, Bulgaria
Photo by: donaldjudge , Creative Commons

Named after a Bulgarian revolutionary who was instrumental to end of the Turkish rule in Macedonia, Sandanski is known for its dazzling spa resorts. Sandanski is surrounded by the Bistritsa River valley where the air is said to be the cleanest in Europe. The town also has the best climate in Bulgaria with its long hours of sunshine, not to mention its hot springs with temperatures ranging from 33 to 83 degrees Celsius. No wonder, Sandanski is well loved by international visitors who crave the fine summer heat, invigorating air, and relaxing atmosphere.

Once you step into Sandanski, consider yourself lucky because you can head over to the only four-star hotel in town: the Hotel Sandanski. Pamper yourself with massages, wellness treatments, hot spring baths, and other relaxing spa packages that the hotel offers to tourists.

Shopping in Sandanski as just as relaxing. Take a stroll down Macedonia Avenue, the main shopping street in Sandanski, under the shades of trees. Many art galleries can be found in Macedonia Avenue, so get your pocket ready for some fun shopping spree.

While you’re in Sandanski, don’t forget to visit the popular landmarks in the greater Sandanski area. These attractions include the breathtaking Rila Mountains, the sandstone pyramids in Melnik, and the hot springs in The Rupite volcanic crater.

For tourists who find pleasure in relaxation and sightseeing, Sandanski makes the perfect holiday getaway.

February 28, 2010 at 12:35 pm | No comment

Fajardo


Fajardo, Puerto Rico
Photo by: oquendo, Creative Commons

Fajardo, Puerto Rico is located in east region of Puerto Rico. It is a popular city despite of it being a small place. Fajardo is a place for recreational boating in Puerto Rico and also a popular open port to other British and American Islands. This is also where you can find the largest Marina named Puerto del Rey. This town has different inns and hotels. There are a few small islands near Fajardo where the shore has beautiful by coral reefs.

Fajardo, Puerto Rico was named originally as Codey Astol de Fajardo. It was founded by Codey in 1760 and later used as one of the spots by Americans to conquer Puerto Rico. Fajardo’s main industries are metal works, components and furniture manufacturing. They also have bio-sciences and pharmaceutical companies.

Fajardo, Puerto Rico became popular among locals and tourists because of their hotels, seafood, close access to Palomino islands and the daily trips by boat or airplanes to Culebra and Vieques. The place is also known for its clean and calm beaches that are best for snorkeling. The Seven Seas Beach provides numerous facilities for water sports, snorkeling, scuba diving and sailing. They also have Bioluminescent Lagoons that are very few in the world. They offer nightly trips for educational purposes.

The place also has one of the oldest lighthouses in the territory, resorts, toen squares, natural reserves, parks, and Cathedrals. Some of the festivities held here are Kite Festival, Patron Saint Festivities, Sailboat Regata, Paradise and Cocolia festival.

February 28, 2010 at 4:39 am | 1 comment

Ghent


A canal street in Ghent, Belgium
Photo by:
MattJP
, Creative Commons

If you’re someone who loves the sight and fragrance of flowers, Ghent is the right spot for you. It may not be as popular to tourists as Bruges and Brussels, but for many who have come to see the city, they consider it a marvelous place.

The city grows flowers of almost every kind, and sells them to people all over the world. Every year, they showcase their flowers to thousands or even millions of tourists by inviting them to come to their Ghent Flower Show or Gentse Floraliën. This is a ten-day festival that is held along the streets of Ghent.

In addition to the beautiful flowers, there’s the beauty of its medieval architectures, such as the Saint Bavo Cathedral, the Belfry, Saint Nicholas Church, the Ghent Altarpiece, Saint Michael’s Church, and the Gravansteen castle.

Museums are scattered throughout the city, which you may want to visit. You should visit the Museum voor Schone Kunsten or Musem of Fine Arts, which houses the paintings of Peter Paul Rubens, Heironymous Bosch, and other Flemish painters.

Ghent is also popular for its bagels or what local people call a mastel. Every November 3rd, they bring batches of bagels to the church to be blessed, and they do this to commemorate Saint Hubert’s feast day.

Soups and stews are also a common part of their Belgian cuisine. You may find their Flemish beef stew everywhere, as well as their Waterzooi which is a stew made from freshwater fish.
An interesting fact about Ghent is that they have a meat-free day every Thursday, where they eat a purely vegetarian diet.

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to pack your things and set a date for your visit to Ghent, Belgium.

February 28, 2010 at 3:58 am | No comment

Juan Dolio


Juan Dolio, Dominican Republic
Photo by: crespoluigi, Creative Commons

Juan Dolio and its nearby town famous for its beach resorts, Guayacanes, is an ideal travel destination for couples or families looking for a quiet vacation and at the same time want to explore exotic locations.

If you want to go to a specific spot in Juan Dolio, it is accessible from the coastline road which usually follows the shoreline. Villas del Mar is a place to visit in Juan Dolio because this is where a lot of dining shops and hotels can be found. West of Juan Doilio is Guayacanes where it is famous for its fishing villages and beaches. There’s also the Playa Caribe, which boasts of its harbour-like beach. And, of course, Boca Chica which is 30 minutes away and Santo Domingo, which can be found west of Juan Dolio. If you are on your way to La Romana, you should travel the Boulevard that is directly headed to San Pedro de Macoris rather than the expressway because it is not yet complete.

If you have a few hours to spare, you can take a trip to San Pedro de Macoris, especially if you are a baseball enthusiast. This city is famous for its baseball players in the major league including Sammy Sosa. You can do a lot of shopping there and you can even extend your trip to the La Romana and Bayahibe area. Juan Dolio is a great place for walking. Traffic is not a problem and the road along the beach offers solitude. If you want to roam around to farther areas, you can ask your hotel if they have bikes available for rent. Just don’t take the busy highway to avoid accidents.

February 28, 2010 at 12:31 am | No comment

Punakha


Punakha Dzong, Bhutan
Photo by: amanderson , Creative Commons

The centre of administration in Punakha dzongkhag is Punakha. Punakha is part of the twenty districts found in Bhutan, and was even Bhutan’s capital district as well as the chair of government. But in the year of 1955, Thimphu district was made the capital. Punakha is approximately seventy-two kilometers or about three hours from the district of Thimpu. Different from Thimpu, Punakha could be quite hot in the summer and also warm in the winter. Located at about 1,200 meters above sea level, the primary crop by the river valleys of 2 primary rivers, namely, Mo Chu and Pho Chu in Bhutan, is rice. The majority dialect is Dzongkha is Punakha.

Growing rice in the valley of Punakha is quite famous in Bhutan. White as well as red rice are developed by the Mo Chu and Pho Chu river valley. These two rivers are the most salient of all rivers found in Bhutan. Ritsha, which literally means hill’s base, is one of the common villages one can see in Punakha. Made with stone foundations as well as pounded mud, most of the houses located in the village are two stories tall. Around these dwellings, one can find the rice fields and even gardens. These certain gardens grow plants which bear fruit, like papayas or oranges, and also vegetables. During the last few years, the work in the farm has progressed to mechanized tools to plough fields. This signifies that the villagers have progressed and have been relatively prosperous.

February 27, 2010 at 9:30 pm | No comment

Ma’an

Petra-Locomotive
Train station in Ma’an, pre-1920. It is still operable today.

Ma’an is a city found in southern Jordan which is 218 km away from the capital Amman. It is the capital of Ma’an Governorate. The Ma’an governorate is the largest (by area) in the kingdom of Jordan. Its international borders are Saudi Arabia (East and South) Aqaba, Kerak, and Tafilah (West), and Amman Governate (North).

Maan, Jordan had always been important place even during the biblical times. It used to be the point on an early caravan route in the Middle East and also on the pilgrimage road to Mecca.

The Ma’an governorate is home to many historic sites. Actually, it was declared the Arab capital in 1920 before Amman. The modern Jordan’s first newspaper was issued here and was called the Alhaqqu Ya’lu. But long before modern Jordan, Ma’an had always had its own civilization. The city plays the important role of a transport hub located along the ancient King’s Highway and the modern Desert Highway as well. It is the end of the country’s major rail line (that reaches Damascus, Syria). This train is where agricultural products are carried on for trade.

One of the most famous places to visit when in Ma’an governorate is the city of Petra. It is a city directly carved into the mountain. Several structures in the area are famous spots for tourists such as the Monastery, the Treasury, and the Royal Tombs. This is also where you will find the High Place of Sacrifice and the Roman Theater. If you wish to travel back in time and witness history though great ancient architecture, Ma’an is definitely the place to go.

February 27, 2010 at 7:26 pm | No comment

Deira


The inside of Gold Souk, Deira, United Arab Emirates
Photo by: leandrociuffo , Creative Commons

Dubai is a popular place in the United Arab Emirates. It is known worldwide because of its modern structures and exciting activities. And one of the most popular places in Dubai is Deira.

There are a lot of exciting things to do in Deira, United Arab Emirates. It is the place to be in Dubai. If you want to maximize your stay in Deira, you should know the places that you should not miss. Check out the list below for more information on Deira.

• Palm Deira should be at the top of your list of places to visit in Deira. It is an incredible feat for the engineers to be able to create such a magnificent island. It is the second among the three man-made Palm Islands in Dubai.
• Another great place to see in Deira is the Gold Souk. It is named as such because the shops here sell precious stones, metals, and gems. Your mouth will drop when you see the endless displays of jewels. You have to wear a pair of sunglasses to shield your eyes form these shiny precious metals.
• Aside from the Gold Souk, you should also check out the Perfume Souk and the Spice Souk. As the name suggests, these souks sell perfumes and spices, respectively. You can buy perfumes that have different smells and spices that re difficult to find.
• After a long day of walking, you can relax in one of the largest spas in Deira—the Akaru Spa. Treat yourself with massage and facial for another exciting experience the next day.

February 27, 2010 at 5:18 pm | No comment

Kazbegi


Rural Area in Kazbegi, Jordan
Photo by: Lidia Ilona, Creative Commons

Kazbegi Georgia prior name was Stepantsminda. It was named after a Georgian orthodox monk who constructed a monastery at this location. Its present name Kazbegi was derived from the great grandfather of Alexander Kazbegi, the late Kazibek Chopikashili. Kazbegi is famously known in Georgia for its Georgian writer Alexander Kazbegi. Its Tsimda Sameba church is also well known for its vintage beauty. Other popular places that can be found in Kazbegi includes the 5,047 feet Mount Kazbek, its extinct volcanoes that is located 16 kilometers south east from Europe’s mountain, the 18,510 feet high Mount Elbrus located on the outskirts of Kazbegi.

After Kazbegi became independent following the Soviet Union break up, the name of this city was changed back to its original Stepantsminda but many still call this place Kazbegi. There are hundreds of places that can be seen in this area. Old Churches that were built in the 18th century can still be seen. There are also many hotel accommodations in this place.

• Hotel Stepantsimanda is located in central Kazbegi which is 150km from Tbilisi. Stepantsimanda hotel offers the best hotel accommodations in Kazbegi and is situated downhill of Europe’s highest mountain.

• Lela’s Guest House is also a good place to stay when visiting Kazbegi. This exclusive guest house is a very small and charming hosting place that is also located downhill.

• Merabi’s Guest House is a small nice garden guest house in Kazbegi Georgia that has 25 rooms for travelers. Staying here offers a strategic starting point to places like Sno and Khde Gorge, Juta village and many unique castles in Kazbegi.

February 27, 2010 at 12:11 pm | No comment

Mfou


The Forest of Mfou, Cameroon
Photo by: treesftf , Creative Commons

Mfou, Cameroon is one of the towns in Cameroon which you need to discover during your trip to Africa. Here, you will be able to see for yourself the true meaning of the word Safari. In Mfou, Cameroon, different kinds of wild animals roam freely along the vast lands of Cameroon. They are a little scary at first, especially the lions and cheetahs, but you will head home with a life time of memories because you have experienced how it was to be in the wild.

Tourism is new for Mfou. There are times when you cannot reach it during the rainy season and hunting season since you don’t want to end up as meal for the wild animals. They are safe enough as long as you do not annoy them too much with erratic behavior.

Even though tourism is a little slow at times, they house one of the best five star hotels in the local vicinity where you can pamper yourself after a long day of wild. You only have to make sure to bring light clothing since it is a tropical place.

A necessary vaccine shot against malaria is required before leaving the United States so you have to make sure you are properly protected.

February 27, 2010 at 3:44 am | 3 comments

Acapulco


Acapulco, Mexico
Photo by: nammer, Creative Commons

Acapulco city is located at Acapulco Bay, where the locals and tourists can enjoy luscious and elegant scenery of the coastal area. Tourists are attracted by the seemingly postcard-perfect beaches. Since the 1950’s, Acapulco has been a world renowned famous vacation destination offering many good times.

The tourist spots offer a variety of different attractions for the many tourists that live there. This is a coastal city, and the main attractions are water sports activities. Quebrada Cliff Divers’ Shows are popular, Taxco Main Drag, Mayan Palace, Isla La Roqueta, Playa Pie de la Cuesta, Fuerte de San Diego, are some of the other popular attractions you can explore and discover. The beautiful scenery will give you the best possible vacation to this coastal city. The many activities you can enjoy include deep sea fishing, snorkeling, a cruise along the Coyuca Lagoon, scuba diving on blue waters, or other highly recommended activities by the locals.

Apart from the activities you can do in this city, exploring the great cuisine of Acapulco can be a very positive experience. Start with one of the most popular and highest rating restaurant called Su Casa. They offer Mexican style seafood within a very romantic ambiance for only $25 to $100. Jovitos, on the other hand, also offers Mexican seafood in addition to some great pasta dishes. Since Acapulco is a coastal city, seafood here is caught fresh daily and tastes good. Another restaurant that is a must-try is Conuco, an Italian restaurant that offers outdoor dining, price range is $15 to $25. Finally, there’s O’Jardim, a Brazilian restaurant that offers a different twist to your dining experience. Make sure you make a reservation ahead of time; the price range is $20 to $25 for dinner.

February 27, 2010 at 2:52 am | No comment

Ottawa


Ottawa, Canada
Photo by: alexindigo , Creative Commons

Ottawa is a city in Canada within the province of Ontario on the south bank of the Ottawa River. Altough it is a city, there are still some rural areas within it. The climate of Ottawa is humid continental, but generally it is one of the coldest cities in Canada. In case, you want to have a vacation here, be sure to bring thick warm clothing.

There are many things to experience in this city like visiting the Rideau Canal, strolling along Parliament Hill, or exploring the Gatineau Park that offers hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. Before you book your trip, check out upcoming festivals and events so you know what to expect when you get there. You could also visit the museums and galleries located in the city to enlighten you about the history. Other activities to experience in Ottawa include Guided Walking Tours around the city; Haunted Walks, a visit to the Basilique-Cathedrale Notre-Dame; Mont Cascades or the Mackenzie King Estate. In addition, Casinos are an added attraction to this beautiful city. Try watching a hockey game as well.

Some of the great restaurants in Ottawa are the Social Restaurant and Lounge, Fairmount Chateau Laurier, Ottawa Marriot Hotel, The Fish Market Restaurant, and The Keg Steakhouse and Bar in Ottawa Market. Furthermore, the highest rating restaurants are the Cozmos Food and Cafe, Springroll House Cafe, and Sacred Garden, are some of it.

February 26, 2010 at 7:40 pm | No comment

Rhodes


Relaxing at Grecja Rodos, Greece
Photo by: Bartek Baltazar, Creative Commons

Rhodes City is actually the largest on Rhodes Island in Greece. It is where the office of its local government can be found. It also has a very impressive history. But tourists should visit the whole island of Rhodes because there are many great places to visit. After all, this island is among the most prolific and largest in all of Greece. In addition, this place has year round bright, sunny days. That is why beach lovers really love to go here. They sunbathe, snorkel, swim, dive, and surf.

Among the best beaches are Lindos, Faliraki, Ladiko, and Tsambika. And a majority of the beaches in Rhodes offer deck chairs for rent. Many hotels and restaurants are found near the beaches, as well. But not all of the hotels here are expensive. Tourists can get accommodations for fairly reasonable prices. In addition, the hotel personnel are courteous and friendly. They can also speak in English, as well as a few more languages.

Other popular tourist destinations are the Castle of Monolithos and the Castle of Kalki. The Palace of the Prince Grand Master is another tourist spot, as well. The tourists can go on excursions to Symi while riding a boat from Rhodes city. And they can buy jewelry, wine, and souvenirs from the various stores. Sponges, olive oils, and religious figures are commonly sold. Try the famous local drinks such as ouzu and mythos. Their frappé is very delicious too. And at the day’s end, they could rest on the many hotels such as the popular Rhodian Sun Hotel.

February 26, 2010 at 6:41 pm | No comment

Ayia Napa


Ayia Napa, Cyprus
Photo by: iswc, Creative Commons

People who love to party and enjoy the nightlife should definitely check out Ayia Napa, Cyprus. This place is just the perfect place to drink, dance, and have loads of fun. Bars and clubs are very abundant here. They even compete fiercely with one another, so any person who happens to pass by will be accosted for a free drink. The bar staff are extremely persistent. They will not stop until they get a customer. Among the well-known hangouts are Bedrock, Ice, and the Castle Club. In addition, strip clubs are also popular here. Toga Toga and Moulin Rouge are the most popular. The majority of the bars and clubs here in Ayia Napa are not opened until almost midnight.

In addition, the Ayia Napa is a great place to visit for historical purposes. The Ayia Napa Monastery is makes an excellent spot to see a very old structure representing the town’s cultural heritage. Moreover, beautiful white sand beaches are found here in Ayia Napa. The Makronisos Beach is among the most beautiful. Then, there is the Nissi Beach which is famous for all the beautiful people that go here. During the summer parties can be found everywhere. Holiday villas are also sought after because they are more practical options than hotel rooms. Majority of the private villas can accommodate more than four people, and most of them also include swimming pools.

February 26, 2010 at 5:20 pm | No comment