Trinidad


Trinidad, Cuba
Photo by: estebandesousa, Creative Commons

Located at the province of Sancti Spiritus in Central Cuba is the town of Trinidad. This town was founded by Diego Velazquez de Cuellar in 1514 and was named Villa De la Santisima Trinidad. Since the year 1988, Trinidad has been a part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites.

Trinidad is one of the most tourist oriented places in the whole of Cuba. That is because the whole town can be compared to a museum. The city boasts of its traditional Spanish architecture which is evident in the old and colorful houses that line the streets. As tourists walk the cobblestone streets, they will see breathtaking palaces and plazas all emblazoned in traditional Cuban design. Exploring the city by foot is a great way to enjoy Trinidad. But a better way of enjoying the beautiful sights of Trinidad is through riding horse drawn carriages called calesas.

The Valley of the Sugar Mills is a must see tourist attraction. It is a vast land with 70 sugar mills which simply proves how important sugar is in their economy. This site has been one of UNESCO’s world heritage sights. Near this area are small islands which have beautiful white sand beaches. One of which is the Ancon beach. Casilda Bay is an excellent spot for snorkeling.

As with other municipals in Cuba, Trinidad is also divided into small barrios. As of the year 2004, it has been recorded that Trinidad has a population of only 73, 466. Other attractions that you just can’t miss are: Playa Arcon, Plaza Mayor, Municipal History Museum, and Santisima Trinidad Cathedral.

February 19, 2010 at 3:00 am | No comment

La Massana


Coma Pedrosa in La Massana, Andorra
Photo by: Coma_Pedrosa , Creative Commons

The parish of La Massana is located at the northern part of Andorra. Its name comes from a variety of apple grown there, “mattianam” in Latin. There are at least 11 villages in La Massana which includes famous vacation spots such as Arinsal and Pal.

Places to Visit:
• Sant Climent de Pal – A Romanesque church that was constructed during the 12th century. It is located in Pal. During July and August, the church is open at 10am to 1pm and again 3pm and 7pm. For the rest of the year, it is only accessible during mass hours.
• Church of Sant Iscle and Santa Victòria – Another Romanesque church that is located at the old district of La Massana.
• Coma Pedrosa – The highest mountain in Andorra. It is famous destination for mountain climbers. Although the terrain is rough, it is not difficult for most mountain climbers.
Things to Do:
• Winter sports – Due to its location, some of the peaks in La Massana receive a large amount of good quality snow. Even during the summer, some of the snow is still left. La Massana is one of the most popular destinations for winter sports.
• Hiking and mountain climbing – La Massana has mostly a mountainous terrain with more than 5 mountains located in the parish. The highest peak, Coma Pedrosa offers a very good trail of hiking and mountaineering. Although it is very rugged, it’s relatively safe and not entirely difficult to conquer. There are also lush forests of pines, wild cherries and firs where you can go hiking.
• Canoeing and fishing – There are four lakes and three main rivers in La Massana. You have plenty of choices to fish or go canoeing.

February 18, 2010 at 7:58 pm | No comment

Porto


Porto City in Portugal
Photo by: abhijeetrane , Creative Commons

Porto is a city in northern Portugal and is considered an alpha global city. In 1996, due to its rich cultural and historical significance, has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is also one of Portugal’s oldest cities. The main city has an estimated population of 220 thousand people.

Because of its Mediterranean type climate, the city is generally cool. The summers are sunny with temperatures ranging from 15-27 degrees Celsius. Winters are generally rainy and the temperature average 5 degrees during mornings and up to 14 degrees in the afternoon.

The city generally exudes a charming and romantic vibe, especially for visiting couples. Activities which are recommended to tourists include the tram ride en route to Foz where one can see the river Douro meeting with the Atlantic Ocean. Boat trips in the river Douro are refreshing especially after you have seen the views the city. Various cruises can be arranged where the views of Maria Pia Bridge, a work of Gustav Eiffel and other historic bridges can be seen. The stacking buildings in narrow roads are best appreciated while sight seeing aboard cruise ships.

In contrast to the rich architectural evidence of its history, Porto being economically forward is also host to world class shopping amenities as well as an active night life.

Porto is a city where you can let go of your gastronomic cravings. The most popular dish tourists must try when in the city is the Tripas a moda do Porto roughly translated in English as the Tripes Porto style. The Frenchy is also a good sandwich made throughout the city with meats, cheeses and sauce made from beer and other spices that reflect the rich taste of authentic Porto’s cuisine. To top off a great meal, the port wine, a very famous of Porto, is a must have. The Port wine is a famous export product of the city all over the world.

Be mesmerized with Porto’s sunny weather, world renowned sights and tasty dishes. Visit the city now if you would like to be enticed with its Portuguese charm.

February 18, 2010 at 7:51 pm | No comment

Ajman


Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
Photo by: Chu, Creative Commons

Visiting Ajman in the United Arab Emirates makes a fascinating experience. It is the smallest emirate in the country in terms of the land area, which is only about 260 square kilometres. And since it is small, you can easily visit the many of the famous tourist spots.

To give you some tips, you should check out the list of tourist spots in Ajman below.

• You will see a mosque named after Sheikh Zayed, the first president of the United Arab Emirates. You will also see this mosque in Ajman. If you are a non-Muslim, you cannot enter the place. But you will be impressed by the rich Islamic architecture which is featured in the construction of the Sheikh Zayed Ajman Mosque.

• You should also visit the Ajman Museum. Before, it was a ruler’s residence. It is a historical place because it was one of the forts that protected the country against the enemies of the early emirates.

• Another landmark that you should not miss in Ajman is the Etisalat Tower. It looks like a tall mosque or a tower that has a huge golf ball at the top. This is an internationally known skyscraper and you should not pass up the chance to visit the place.

• If you want to go to the gym, you can do that at the Ajman Kempinski Hotel gym. You can work out in this place and go swimming in their clear pool. And when you get tired swimming in the pool, you can always go to the sandy beach which is very near the hotel gym.

February 18, 2010 at 5:18 pm | 1 comment

Ponce


Ponce, Puerto Rico
Photo by: migulski , Creative Commons

Ponce, Puerto Rico is a city and at the same time municipality located in Puerto Rico’s southern part. It was named after Juan Ponce de Leon y Loayza who was a great grandson of the famous Spanish conqueror Juan Ponce de Leon. The city is the 2nd largest in the country and also named The Noble City, The Pearl of the South and Genip City.

Ponce, Puerto Rico has numerous land and water attractions. Land features include numerous elevations, slopes, forests and mountains. The Cerro de Punta has the highest elevation in Puerto Rico. Water features include a multitude of rivers, lakes, lagoons, springs and beaches. Ponce’s rivers form the hydrographic system of the city.

Ponce, Puerto Rico has many great things to offer tourists. Architects joined together to design and give their city a very unique look. Many structures in the city were designed based on architecture of Barcelona. They also established Teatro La Perla, Museum and residence. The downtown part of Ponce houses most of their tourist attractions. To accommodate the growing number of tourists, several hotels, casino, resorts and restaurants were built.

The city was known for their quality museums and landmarks. The main square in town named Plaza Las Delicias has an attractive fountain called the Lions Fountain. You can also see the Parque de Bombas which is a historical firehouse and the Ponce Cathedral. If you want to overlook the city, you can go to their observation tower named Serralles Castle and be amazed by the city’s beauty.

February 18, 2010 at 4:39 am | No comment

Bali


Lush Vegetation in Bali, Cameroon
Photo by: Wiki Media Commons, Creative Commons

Are you thinking of a wonderful place to visit once you set foot in Nigeria? Well, there is one called Bali, Cameroon.

In Bali, Cameroon, you will be transported back to the days when you want to discover new places. There are different kinds of animals that you often just see on TV or at the zoo. Yes they are behind bars there but here in Bali, you have to hold on tight since they are just prancing around. Safety precautions are given especially during the peak months when tourists are visiting almost every day.

Just make sure that these animals don’t attack you since there is just one main hospital in the area for emergencies. That is why when you head of to this wonderful place, always bring with you a first aid kit – just in case something happens.

The temperature in Bali can be very hot and humid so pack clothes that are made of light and breezy fabric. It actually gets a too humid during the day but once it gets dark, you will be thankful for the cool breeze against your skin.

February 18, 2010 at 3:46 am | No comment

Puerto Vallarta


Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Photo by: Lisa Andres , Creative Commons

Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico. This city is located on the coast of Mexico along Banderas Bay in the state of Jalisco. The rainy seasons are during the months of June thru October. The average temperature during this time of the year is 92 degrees Fahrenheit.

The popular attractions in Puerto Vallarta are numerous. From bullfights to art shows, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Other local activities you may want to try are learning to dance the Salsa or Merengue. For added relaxation, check out the spas and discover their uniqueness.

Like many coastal regions, there are underwater caves that you can dive into and discover what they have to offer. Be amazed at the beautiful and luscious coral reefs under the sea. Some are drawn to this area due to the waves, more for the surfers out there. Additional attractions are the dolphins and the humpback whales you can see swimming in the sea, and the best time to visit if you want to see them are November thru April.

You will be captivated by the beauty of the city, with its outstanding attractions you can never go wrong to make this trip truly memorable.

February 18, 2010 at 2:35 am | No comment

Monastir


Monastir Marina in Tunisia
Photo by: the12thplaya , Creative Commons

Monastir is the perfect blend of ancient and modern aspects of Tunisia. Formerly a fishing port, the town is now one of the country’s leading tourist resorts.

Three Monastir beach resorts are worthy of mention because of their innate beauty: the Houda Golf and Beach Club, Abou Nawas Cap Mahdia, and Town Beach. The Houda Golf and Beach Club, situated between Monastir and Sousse, is a hotel with a family-friendly beach resort. There, travelers can enjoy several watersports and play golf. The Abou Nawas Cap Mahdia, one of the finest beaches in Tunisia, is a long stretch of beautiful golden sand. It is perfect for tourists who want to enjoy both sunbathing and playing beach sports. Lastly, the Town Beach is overflowing with local businesses, making it too crowded. However, the Town Beach attracts a lot of beachgoers because of its crystal-clear water and lovely afternoon sights.
Aside from the beaches, a top attraction in Monastir is an ancient fortress or monastery established by an Islamic religious order thousands of years ago to shield the town from Byzantine warships and nomadic tribes. Named by the French after the monastery, Monastir houses numerous museums of Islamic artifacts and artworks. And these museums are the main tourist attractions at the central shore of Tunisia.

If hopping from one museum to another is the name of your game, Monastir definitely won’t disappoint you. The two museums worth visiting in this lovely Tunisian town are the Uthina Museum and the Monastir Museum. Once you set foot in Uthina Museum, you surely can’t help admiring its centuries-old huge amphitheater and fine mosaic floors. The Monastir Museum, on the other hand, is a wide citadel and one of the biggest military structures in Tunisia. Like the Uthina Museum, the Monastir Museum was built many centuries ago.

February 17, 2010 at 11:35 pm | No comment

Liberec


Liberec, Czech Republic
Photo by: philipbitnar , Creative Commons

Liberec in the Czech Republic is the sixth largest city in the country. It was nicknamed the “Manchester of Bohemia” because of its thriving textile industry during the 18th century.

If you love the outdoors then you can definitely appreciate the fun activities you can do in Liberec’s famous Zoo and Botanical Garden. Their zoo is home to about 143 species of fauna on a 13 hectare land. There’s a wide variety of animals too, like giraffes, elephants, sea lions and white tigers. Rare species are bread in this zoo because the place advocates the propagation of these endangered creatures. That is why kids and adults alike can enjoy at the same time learn from the experience of visiting and walking through the grounds at this zoo.

Those born with a green thumb or basically have the deep appreciation for nature’s beauty will definitely enjoy the sights to behold in the Czech’s oldest Botanical Garden. The garden consists of nine glasshouses for visitors to look upon with 13 exhibition themes. There’s a large exterior terrain that people can also see. This place is a monument to the continuation of a legacy started by the Society of Friends of Nature that established botanical gardens such as this in the lat 1800’s.

People who are fond of architecture will enjoy viewing Liberec’s historical landmarks such as the castle of Count Clam Gallas which was built in the 17th century. You can also appreciate the sight of the old Jested Tower seated upon the Jested Mountain and a remarkable symbol of the city.

To experience some of the culture in this part of the country, the best time to come is June when the popular Materinka, a biennial festival, is being held.

February 17, 2010 at 5:59 pm | No comment

Haskovo


Monument of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Haskovo, Bulgaria
Photo by: klearchos, Creative Commons

One of the oldest cities in Bulgaria, Haskovo leaves nothing to be desired when it comes to its local tourism. It may not be as big as other cities in Bulgaria, but Haskovo deserves to be considered a premier tourist destination in the country.

Here are some of the best reasons for spending your next holiday trip in the city of Haskovo.
1. People in Haskovo are among the friendliest in the world. If you’re a stranger in a foreign land, friendly and helpful people can help you get to your intended destination and find the best places to visit in Haskovo.
2. The streets and pathways are usually clean. The cafes along the sidewalk add to the charm of the streets of Haskovo, making them ideal for a leisurely walks.
3. Haskovo has an efficient and reliable transportation system. The bus and train services in the city can quickly take you to places you want to visit without much hassle.
4. The climate is ideal for tourists. The summer months in Haskovo are dry and hot. It rarely rains in the city, as the wet months occur only in winter. The best time to travel to Haskovo is from June to August when there is plenty of sun and no rainfall.
5. Haskovo lets you enjoy Bulgarian cuisine at its finest. Spread throughout Haskovo are taverns that serve a variety of traditional Bulgarian dishes such as stewed and grilled meats and fresh veggies. In Haskovo, you can eat as much as your tummy pleases without feeling guilty about the carbs!

February 17, 2010 at 12:40 pm | No comment

La Romana


La Romana, Dominican Republic
Photo by: Felicidade , Creative Commons

La Romana and its surrounding area has everything for a perfect getaway vacation. If you have heard from friends how great their adventure was during their trip to Saona Island, then La Romana is a good starting point for an excursion to nearby islands of Catalina and Saona.

La Romana is located west of Punta Cana and east of the capital city of Santo Domingo. Juan Dolio, where the nearest beach resort is located is only 40 minutes away and Boca Chica is located a one hour drive to the west. One can also enjoy a trip to Casa de Campo, which would only take you 25 minutes to reach the beaches of Dominicus and Bahayibe.

One of the attractions of La Romana is the Altos de Chavon Artists Village. It is a community pulsating with culture settled above Chavon River. It boasts of cobblestone streets, fountains made of coral stones, and terra cotta architecture which have the ability to transform you back to another time. The village is designed by Italian architect, Robert Coppa, who also worked for Paramount as a movie set creator. He designed the village in the late 1970s to capture the essence of southern Italy and southern Spain and how they looked like in the 15th century. Today, tourists can lose themselves in the variety of craft workshops, studios and galleries of different artists, and of course, a stretch of dining shops.

The St. Stanislau Church has been the home of many weddings and this is attributed to the romantic vibe emanated by Altos de Chavon. Its 5,000-seat amphitheatre is the home of the village’s performing arts since it was inaugurated by one of the music industry’s most illustrious name, Frank Sinatra. Today, it still showcases performances by famous artists around the world.

February 16, 2010 at 11:39 pm | No comment

Riffa


Riffa Fort interior, Riffa, Bahrain
Photo by: Wiki Commons , Creative Commons

Do you enjoy playing golf in exotic locations? If you do, there is no better place to go to but Riffa, Bahrain. This city is in the central part of the kingdom of Bahrain and is separated in two: the East and the West. East Riffa is a relatively larger tourist spot compared to West Riffa. The latter is basically filled with residential areas except the clock tower in the center of the city.

One of East Riffa’s major attractions is the Riffa Golf Club. It is located in a wadi and is the only place in Bahrain which offers golf training. If you are a golfer, you would surely enjoy playing in this golf club in the stream. There is also a lovely shopping place nearby called the Riffa Bazaar. Here you can find high quality goods at very reasonable prices. It’s a perfect place to buy souvenirs and gifts for family and friends.

Another spot you should visit is the Riffa Fort. It used to be the base for all governmental activities in the kingdom until 1869. Its construction goes back to as far as 1812. The fort is extremely spacious and has two chambers. If you want to experience the unique feel of the desert wind in the night, the Riffa Fort is definitely where you should go.

West Riffa is also a place you must see although it is mainly residential. It also has malls and hotels that you would love to explore and enjoy. If you love sports, you may also witness some major sport events in the National Stadium which is in this part of the city.

February 16, 2010 at 8:17 pm | No comment

Sant Julia


A Street in Sant Julià de Lòria, Andorra
Photo by: Wiki Commons , Creative Commons

The parish of Sant Julia de Loria is located in between Andorra and Spain, just about 7km south of Andorra’s capital. Sant Julia de Loria is an industrial parish with many tobacco factories throughout the town. Like all the parishes in Andorra, Sant Julia de Loria has its fair share of Romanesque churches dating back from the Middle Ages. Another important tourist spot in the parish is the Reig Factory, once a tobacco factory that has been turned into a museum.

• Sant Serni de Nagol – Lies just outside the village of Nagol. This Romanesque church is said to have been constructed in the 11th century. During July and August there are free guided tours. During these months the church is open to the public every day at 10am to 1pm and again at 3pm to 6pm. During the rest of the year, it is only open during mass hours.
• Sanctuary of Canòlic – A very famous Romanesque church that dates as far back as the 13th century. An annual pilgrimage is held in this church during the last Saturday of May. People from all over Andorra and the rest of the world gather for the event. If you want to take part in the pilgrimage, you must make reservations.
• The Museu del Tabac – An old tobacco museum that used to be a tobacco factory; the Reig factory. It closed down in 1957 but was reconstructed and reopened in 1909 as a museum that documented the history of the tobacco industry in Andorra.

February 16, 2010 at 7:59 pm | No comment

Sweimeh


Amman beach, Sweimeh, Jordan
Photo by: argenberg , Creative Commons

Suweima, Jordan is under the Balqa governorate and is situated northwest of the capital Amman. The governorate of Balqa ranks 10th in area among the 12 in the kingdom. However, it ranks third when it comes to population.

Sometimes, the village’s name of Suweima is also spelled as Suwaymah, Sweime, Suweima, or Sweimeh. What’s new? Jordanian spots are known for their tongue-twisting names! Anyway, if you want to travel somewhere that’s far and peaceful, then there’s probably no other place that could be quieter than Suweima. It is a small town that has a population ranging between 2000 and 5000 and is definitely your perfect rural life destination.

Suweima, just like other villages in the Al Balqa governorate, has a very interesting history. Apparently, aside from the governorate’s capital Salt, there was nothing in the area to see or go to during the old times. There was no house, no shop, and no traveler-friendly establishment to find rest in. These days though, although the town is still relatively quiet, it has changed. It now has some places and businesses that cater to tourists who want to immerse themselves in the simple life of this area.

Suweima has an economy that is based on agriculture. If you love the greens, then you will have your fill learning about town’s crops and how they help people earn a living. If you love the mountains, whether for hiking or sightseeing, the little town is surrounded by them for your exploration.

It may not make sense to some why a small town like Suweima, Jordan is worth-visiting, but for those who find solace in life’s simplicity and rawness, there is no need for any explanation. Simple Suweima is simply the best.

February 16, 2010 at 7:27 pm | No comment

Abu Dhabi


The Skyline of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Photo by: slleong, Creative Commons

Abu Dhabi is one of the cities that make up the United Arab Emirates. When it comes to tourism, Dubai, another one of the seven emirates, is probably the most popular but Abu Dhabi is also holding its own. Abu Dhabi is also the political center of UAE because it is the capital.

There are many things to do in Abu Dhabi. You can experience both the pleasures of being in the city and in the desert. You can go to huge shopping malls, ride camels, go desert camping, visit skyscrapers, and stay in luxurious hotels. You will be impressed by the rich contrast of city and desert living.

Your first stop should be at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. You are probably wondering who is Sheikh Zayed? He was the first president of the UAE and the mosque was named after him to pay tribute. This is an imposing structure which can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. It is very big and it has the largest carpet in the world, which measures 5,000 square meters. This mosque is open to non-Muslims. You can visit the mosque with the assistance of a tour guide.

To fully experience desert culture, you should watch the famous camel race held at the Al Wathba Camel Track. Or you can drive to the world’s largest oasis town—the Al Ain Oasis. And if these are not enough, you can camp in the vastness of the desert at night. You can experience all of these in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

February 16, 2010 at 6:00 pm | 1 comment

Paphos


Paphos, Cyprus
Photo by: Verity Cridland, Creative Commons

Paphos, Cyprus is a very beautiful place. It is famous for being the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess. It is located in the southwest, between the Troodos Mountains and the coast. It is also divided into the upper and the lower Paphos areas. The upper area is the hub of commercial establishments, while the lower area is where most archaeological structures and hotels are found. This lower area is known as the Kato Paphos. It is a great place for bars, restaurants, and hotels.

The town of Paphos is also small. That is the reason that many tourists explore the city on foot. They may also ride bicycles and other motorized vehicles if they intend to travel around the Paphos region. In addition, local buses are widely available to reach different destinations. Nevertheless, the tourist attractions in Paphos, Cyprus are absolutely remarkable. The Paphos Archaeological Park, for instance, is popular for its Roman ruins. These are specifically the House of Theseus and the House of Dionysos which have amazing mosaics to see. The Tombs of the Kings is another great attraction. Many rich people and prominent officials are buried here instead of actual kings. These tombs were engraved out of hard rock and they depict the people’s ways of living during the fourth century.

Other places to visit are the Bird Park and the Aphrodite Water Park. Such parks are perfect for the whole family, and little children will surely enjoy the visiting here. Paphos is also a great place to shop. Numerous stores ranging from furniture shops to souvenir stores are full of great products. In addition, first-class dining may be experienced at the town’s hotels. Chinese and Mexican foods are also served in restaurants, as well as, Greek and Italian dishes. Native foods such as the Cypriot meze are also available.

February 16, 2010 at 5:10 pm | 1 comment

Santa Coloma


Casa de la Vall in Santa Coloma, Andora
Photo by: lorentey , Creative Commons

Santa Coloma, not to be confused with the city in Spain that bears the same name, is located just 2 kilometers away from the Andorra capital, Andorra De Vella. Most people go to Santa Coloma because of its proximity to Andorra De Vella, a famous destination for winter sports.
Perhaps the main tourist attraction in Santa Coloma is the Bridge of la Margineda, a bridge that was constructed during the middle ages but is still in fine condition. Another structure people visit in the village is the Church of Santa Coloma. The building is very distinct from other churches that are found all over the world. Aside from the main building, it has a three-staged round tower. The Church of Santa Coloma houses the Virgin of Santa Coloma, a statue that has stood time since the 12th century.
If you like shopping, you can go to the capital since it’s very close to Santa Coloma. Andorra De Vella has duty-free stores so you can find many great deals. If you love jewelry, you’ll have a great time shopping around the capital. It is known for having stores that sell the finest quality jewelry. You can also buy cheap but high quality electronic goods, accessories and clothing.
Even if you’re not planning to go skiing, you can still have fun in Santa Coloma. At night, the city is very much alive. There are plenty of bars and clubs open until the wee hours of the morning.

February 16, 2010 at 1:35 pm | No comment

De Panne


The Coastline of De Panne, Belgium
Photo by: Wiki Commons, Creative Commons

One of the places in Belgium that is located along the coastline is De Panne. De Panne is a beautiful place where you can stroll along its sand, build sand castles, and swim with your loved ones. You may also do sand yachting on the beach if you want. And if these activities don’t interest you, try going to one of the many cafes or restaurants built around the place. You can taste their coffee, beer, ice creams and the ever famous Belgian waffles.

Besides these activities, you can also enjoy your visit here by exploring its nature parks. There are four nature areas in De Panne, and among these, the largest is called Westhoek Nature Park.

The busiest days in De Panne are during the summer holidays. Many people spend time not only in beaches, restaurants and nature parks. They also visit the shopping centers. Their Grote Markt has an interesting collection of medieval buildings that include the Stadius. In addition to this, there are the amusement parks near De Panne.

It is always a memorable experience to be in De Panne for your summer holidays.

February 16, 2010 at 3:58 am | No comment

Holguin


Holguin, Cuba
Photo by: ajawin, Creative Commons

Holguin is a Cuban municipal and city founded by a Spanish military officer named Captain Garcia de Holguin. The capital of Holguin is also called Holguin. The city was first called San Isidoro de Holguin, named after its founder during the year 1545. Several city parks occupy the city of Holguin; Calixto Garcia, Parque San Jose, Parque San Isidro, Parque Marti just to name a few of them. Since the year 2004, Holguin has had a population of about 324,000. The total land area of Holguin is 666 square meters.

One of the most popular landmarks in the city is a large crucifix known as the Loma de la Cruz. This crucifix is installed on top of a hill. A bird’s eye view of the entire city can viewed at the top of the 450-stair high crucifix. Another popular landmark is the San Jose church.
Tourists can reach Holguin through the Frank Pais Airport. This airport operates both local and international flights. Some very well-known Cuban personalities reside in Holguin, such as Faustino Oramas, Jesse Cruz, Pily Nieblas, and others.

The city of Holguin is quite self-sufficient. Holguin has a library called Bayado, club called Casa dela Trova, and cinema called Theater Eddy Sunol. The gallery Centro Provincial de Arte is located in this city. The city also has a historical museum as well as a science museum. It even has its own baseball stadium.

Cervecera Bucanero is based in Holguin. The beers Bucanero, Cristal, and Mayabe are brewed in this area.

February 16, 2010 at 3:00 am | No comment

Rabat


Rabat, Morocco
Photo by: djrue , Creative Commons

While visiting Morocco, you should stop by Rabat, the country’s coastal capital. Rabat, Morocco also offers many tourist locations, most of them historical.

This place has a 700-year-old history that is a mixture of both modern and traditional Moroccan culture. One of the main attractions of Rabat, Morocco is Kasbah des Oudaias. This is an old castle and is a great place to visit. You can buy souvenirs, explore the museums, and eat at cafes where you can relax after a long day of walking and taking pictures.

You should also check out the Medina of Rabat. Medina means city, and in Medina, you can buy all sorts of stuff that you can bring home with you. From dried fruits to leather goods to pottery—you name it, the Medina of Rabat has it. Leather is one of the most popular products in Medina. You can buy leather jackets here at very cheap prices.

If you want to visit historical ruins, you should go see Chellah. This place is not so crowded compared to the other places in Rabat, Morocco. You will learn much about the history of the place just by visiting Chellah. One thing that gives it a unique atmosphere is the storks that nest on the ruins.

Hassan Tower is another place that you should not miss in Rabat. You will see two hundred columns that surround an unfinished minaret. This is one of the most famous monuments in Rabat. If you still have time, you should go inside the mosque to see its beautiful interior. The view is very beautiful especially if you go there at night.

February 15, 2010 at 4:50 pm | 2 comments

Playa del Carmen


Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Photo by: Carolyn Coles, Creative Commons

To have a vacation of a lifetime, you need to embark on something that you and your travel companions would all love. Make plans and go to Playa del Carmen, Mexico. This is a place where you will have fun, relax, enjoy and experience a coastal vacation along the Mayan Riviera, a city at the coast of the Caribbean Sea.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico is 45 minutes away from Cancun, a famous tourist destination in Mexico. But nothing can be compared to Playa del Carmen because you can expect less tourists here than in Cancun but still enjoy what it has to offer. It is a city ideal for a family vacation wherein everyone can feel and hear the sound of the beach.

What are some of the activities you can enjoy? Since it is near the beach, the activities can enjoy are water activities like snorkeling, windsurfing, skydiving, sailing, scuba diving, swimming with dolphins, and many more. Just a tip: don’t grab the first offer given to you if you’re planning any activities. See to it that you compare prices before jumping into any offer. Remember, the more people joining your activity the lesser price you could get. Other than this, you could also try the jungle or the trip to the aviary. Some other activities you can enjoy are:
• Caribbean Carnival

• A trip to Chichen Itza

In addition, these are the top-rated attractions in the city:

• Mexico Blue Dream

• Reef Quest Divers

• Playa Scuba

• Geofish Dive

• Rancho Baaxal

Try some of the restaurants around the area. Be sure to taste their specialty because that what makes the food experience more memorable.

• Blue Parrot Restaurant

• Buenos Aires

• Byblos

• Costa del Mar – Pirate Restaurant and Bar

• Java Joe’s

• Casa Adela

• Ipanema’s Grill

• Kool Beach Club

February 15, 2010 at 2:35 am | No comment

Lodz


Lodz in Poland
Photo by: emmanueldyan, Creative Commons

If you have heard of Woodge, Poland before but are not sure exactly where it is, then you should know that “Woodge” is simply the pronunciation of Lodz. Although this city is relatively young compared to other cities in Poland, it nevertheless existed hundred of years ago.

Lodz is Poland’s Industrial Revolution’s direct product and the country’s 3rd largest city. This is the reason it was also called “The Manchester of Poland.” While many prefer the charisma of the other cities such as Krakow and Prague, still others love the dark history and wacky stories that surround Lodz. During the 14th century, Lodz population ballooned following the Industrial Revolution making Lodz the youngest metropolis of Poland. It was even called “The Promise Land” with its rich textile industry thriving at the time that enticed thousands of people to move to the city from England, Central Europe and Switzerland, trying to find greener pastures. The movie based on the novel of famous Nobel Prize winner Wladyslaw Reymont entitled the Promised Land, portrayed these times in Lodz.

Like most of the other cities in Poland, Lodz was ruined by World War II. Worst of all, the Jewish dwellers were butchered and murdered. The Russians and Germans were pushed back to where they came from. And just like other Polish cities, Lodz managed to restore its status and once again became an important center for industry and even a great location for Polish counter-culture and art.

There are many places to visit in Lodz such as museums and churches. The city is home to many accommodations and transportation services that will make the visit of tourists worthwhile and comfortable. The main reason that many people who go to Lodz is to start a business in the city that will eventually make them rich.

To learn more about this city and to get a good packaged deal for a visit, simply log on to any website that can offer the best tour for you and your family.

February 15, 2010 at 1:52 am | 2 comments

Cabarete


Cabarete, Dominican Republic
Photo by: Stupid Dingo , Creative Commons

Windsurfing and kite boarding are among the main attractions of Cabarete. This place is famous for its accommodating weather perfect for almost any kind of extreme sports. Everything unfolds within the six kilometre vicinity of Cabarete Beach. Along Cabarete Bay, a business district has grown. Most businesses are operated by foreigners who first came to Cabarete as tourists but have long decided to stay and make it their permanent residence.

Establishments like restaurants, clubs, shops and the few hotels that exist are situated farther from the beach to make it quiet enough for some rest and relaxation. This keeps the place from getting too crowded so guests can enjoy some quality time alone. Most tourists find the locals very warm and accommodating. Guests can also mix with each other as most hotels urge their guests to explore and uncover the beauty of Cabarete on their own. In the evening, you can enjoy your dinner by the seaside since most restaurants extend their services there for a maximum Cabarete experience. Even though the tables set out by the beach are mostly plastic, the service and foods are world class. It is fun strolling by the beach during night-time while choosing the most appetizing restaurant that catches your fancy.

Even though the beach of Cabarete is known for its water sports, it is also ideal for a family vacation. You can also take a trip to nearby places like Playa Dorada, Playa Grande or Sosua. You don’t need a vehicle to explore everything there is in Cabarete. You can walk around to shops and other locations if you are lodging in town. There are resorts that are farther away but your hotel can offer you travel services. Aside from exploring the beach and enjoying some water sports, you can also go golfing and scuba diving.

February 14, 2010 at 11:39 pm | No comment

Faro


Faro
Photo by: girolame, Creative Commons

Faro is a city capital of the Algarve region in southern Portugal. The city proper has a total population of about 40 thousand inhabitants. It traces its history from the Paleolithic age when people attracted to the Rio Formosa lagoon established their settlements in the area. The city is not as modern compared to Lisbon or Porto, but it is complete with amenities as well as transportation means like the Faro airport, a marina, sea port, networks of trains as well as buses linking it to other cities in Portugal. The city has also become a host to Euro 2004 wherein a 30,000 seat stadium was constructed.

Faro has a characteristic Mediterranean subtropical climate which has an average temperature of 27 to 29 degrees Celsius during the summer and 8-17 degrees during the winter.

The Rio Formosa lagoon is one of the must visits for tourists who would like to observe migratory birds stopping by the area. The lagoon is a 170 kilometer nature reserve accessible 7 kilometers from the city. Other key spots where visitors can take a photo of themselves and explore the city include the Statue of Alfonso III, the City Hall, the quaint and charming streets of Faro famous for its tiled style, the central Faro square, the old church and hospital and the Faro’s city government building.

Many attractions such as the Roman walls surrounding the city as well as the archaeological museum are places to visit when one would like to know the rich history that contributed to the development of Faro. The Nossa Senora do Carmo exemplifies the gold leaf woodwork of artisans of Faro. The naval museum showing galleons are interesting as well. For people who love motorcycle sports, the Faro International motor race Rally is one of the largest gatherings in Europe and attracts thousands of people who like to see the event.

Peaceful and tranquil, the city is an ideal place to stay for visitors because it is in Faro where nature and history come together to form a great city for enjoyment.

February 14, 2010 at 7:52 pm | 1 comment

Marianske Lazne


Marianske Lazne, Czech Republic
Photo by: mikelove , Creative Commons

Many people take breaks to relax and enjoy a trip that will allow them to be pampered and experience a life of leisure. This is exactly what you will experience in Marianske Lazne, Czech Republic. This is a city of spas and natural mineral springs. Maianske Lazne is the second largest spa in the Czech Republic with construction of original baths dating back to the 19th century. Many have come and enjoyed a leisurely time in their spas and relaxing activities.

The reason why people are so drawn to this place is because of the fine mixture of nature and architecture which everyone appreciates. The town has a hundred mineral springs that have a high carbon dioxide content as well as iron. When you go there, the pseudo Baroque Colonnade welcomes you as it is the main promenade leading to the spa. It is also an important and historical monument in the place.

Since the springs are built in the colonnades, there are some prominent ones that merit your visit as you go there. The most famous being The Cross Spring wherein a monumental pavilion has this copula that bears a patriarchal cross and columns which make for interesting viewing. The interesting part is that the mineral water that springs out from it actually has a strong laxative effect and has been used in curative baths and drinks.

The great thing about visiting a city spa such as Marianske Lazne is that you get to unwind during your travels. Travelling can be very stressful and it can be extremely tiring with all the sightseeing and walking. So a break in the spa can help rejuvenate you as you continue on in your travels.

February 14, 2010 at 5:59 pm | No comment