Saturday, May 8, 2010

Monaco



In the 1920s Monaco destinations guide became the place for the rich and famous to come and play, driving big cars, betting big bucks and drinking copious amounts of fine champagne. It still hosts such strenuous activities, but these days as much fun can be had in watching those at play than those taking part.

Monaco's millions
If there's anywhere in Europe where the rich are free to flaunt their wealth it's Monaco. Diamonds, designer clothes and Ferraris are vital accessories in the leading local past time - showing off.

Perched on the cliffs looking out to sea, on France's Côte D'Azur, Monaco is one of Europe's smallest Independent States. It is also, for its size, one of the world's richest, with possibly more millionaires than anywhere else on earth. Nowhere is this more on show than in the harbour.

There's certainly no shortage of extremely large and expensive yachts in the marina. At 50,000 pounds a day, not including fuel, the luxury super yacht, Savarona, is all yours. With its solid silver sinks, and Turkish bath, it's very Monaco.

However, don't be alarmed. Luxury in Monaco does not have to be quite so ostentatious. Craig's hotel Columbus was among the apartment blocks of La Fontvieille in the commercial district. It has a distinctively hip and laid-back feel about it. It's also a good place to chill out away from Monaco's social whirl.

It's no surprise that eating out in Monaco is expensive so it's worth taking advantage of the Brasserie. Dinner is included in the price of the package. This hotel has stirred things up a little and it's a refreshing addition to some of the stale traditional hotels you might otherwise find.

Formula One, anyone?
The streets of Monaco are like any ordinary streets for every day of the year except on a certain famous weekend, making this the only grand prix circuit in the world where you can live out your formula one fantasies while popping out to the shops.

The big players still come to Monaco to stake fortunes on the role of a dice. Gambling has been a serious pastime here since the 19th Century with takings from society's high rollers keeping the principality awash with cash.

This is a hard place to do on a budget, so if you've had enough of the extravagance and expense you can jump on a train at Monaco's main railway station, and head down the coast. A 50-mile train ride will take you away from it all and at just £1.50.

Ten miles west of Monaco is Villefranche. Since the last century, it has been a favourite haunt of the English well-to-do. The harbour area and the beach are the town's main attraction. It's worth exploring the pretty streets as well. Sunday morning is a good time to visit Villefranche, when the town holds a weekly antiques market, a kind of glorified car boot sale flogging items from Monaco's glamorous past.

Poser's paradise
Back in Monaco harbour and there's always another excuse for the locals to show off. The annual Riva regatta is one of many society events held throughout the summer and there's no shortage of spectator sports for the weekend visitor to enjoy.

Friday, March 19, 2010

Portugal




Portugal is one of the oldest countries in all Europe. Outstanding monuments, castles and churches meet futuristic new buildings and technologies. Some say this country is one of the poorest and one of the most ancient, but who says this has to be bad? This is the magic of Portugal!
If you want relaxation look for the small villages spread all over the mainland, inside old castles walls or amidst untouched natural countryside.

If you're looking for a tan try the beautiful and long beaches on the Algarve, surrounded by amazing cliffs and crystal clear waters. This is the Portuguese region with the best weather all year round.
Portugal’s extreme south-western position at the tip of Europe provides this small and unexplored country with many attractive features for those looking for the perfect destination for their holiday. This is your in-depth travel guide to one of Europe’s most fantastic destinations.

With nearly 2000 km of coastline, Portugal’s culture, gastronomy, lifestyle and people have always had a close relationship with the sea. Most of the main cities can be found close to the river mouth bathed by the Atlantic Ocean. This provides most of these cities, namely Lisbon and Porto, with fantastic breathtaking views over infinite blue waters and particular characteristics you are bound never to forget.

The endless, unspoilt beaches, provide ideal spots for a summer holiday. You may lay under the warm sun and refresh at the cool waters of the sea. Try out some water sports like surfing, windsurfing or kite-surfing and end your evening with a cool drink at one of the fantastic beach bars carefully built along the coast. The most famous location for its beaches is Portugal’s most southern region; the Algarve.Lisbon, the Portuguese capital, offers one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan, dynamic and diverse lifestyles. Eating in Lisbon is always a pleasure, from fresh fish brought into the markets everyday, to the delicious fruit and vegetables from nearby areas, ending with a mouth-watering sweet pastel de nata. Lisbon is filled with yellow trams that meander through the cobbled streets, galleries and museums with all kinds of art forms and artists, typical neighbourhoods busy with Lisbon’s usual lifestyle and others that cater for your every dining, shopping and entertainment need.

Porto (Oporto), at the tip of the Douro River has a close relationship with this historic wine region. Famous for a sweet wine called Port, Porto provides a truly rare gastronomic experience. Try its delicious meats and fishes traditionally prepared to fill your palate with pleasure experimenting the different Ports at the beginning or at the end of your meal. Porto is characteristic for the mixture of architecture that fills the city, with Barroque churches, an Eiffel bridge and contemporary design buildings, this city has many stories to tell. Take a boat trip up the river to the famous Douro wine region, to get to know one of the worlds most beautiful places, classified as World Heritage in 2001.

Visit the cities in the Alentejo, Portugal’s biggest wine region. Take a tour around the vineyards and get to know some of the world’s most famous wineries. Cheeses and smoked hams accompany most of the wine tasting and you’ll understand the reason for their fame once you try some.

The most diverse flora and landscape may be found in the small island of Madeira. The island is protected by high cliffs and surrounded by clear navy blue waters. It is filled with vineyards, banana plantations and ancient green forests, which you may drive by the steep hilly winding roads that reach high viewpoints with breathtaking views. The sunny city of Funchal caters for your every need; with sophisticated restaurants, great venues for different types of entertainment and shows and many more activities that won’t fail to impress you.

Saturday, February 27, 2010

greek islands vacation



A Greek Island vacation combines the best of a European getaway (history, culture, food) with a “sun and heat” beach vacation.

The Greek islands have, throughout the years, kept their charm, village feel and slower pace of life. On most of the islands, it’s easy to find a nice quiet spot to relax and soak up the history and atmosphere of Greece.

Another good reason to think about a cruise around the Greek Islands is cost: You can actually holiday in Greece on a budget! Greece is one of the cheapest countries in Europe to travel in. Accommodation and food costs in Greece are very reasonable by European standards.
Santorini is one of those places in your travels you will never forget. There’s no other word for it – it is just stunningly beautiful.

A romantic evening here is as simple as picking from one of the many restaurants perched on the edge of the cauldron, and enjoying your meal and drink together while the sun sets on the Aegean sea, almost 1000 ft below. You’ll feel like you’re in a movie, or brochure!
Mykonos has a reputation as being the “party-central” of the Greek Islands. It’s not surprising why when you see the number of bars, restaurants and cruise ships here in high season. It can feel like you’re sharing this small island with ½ of Europe!

Basically, we say stay away from Mykonos in July and August – the crowds are just not worth it. But a visit here in May or September can be rewarding – you can choose the restaurant you want, and enjoy wandering through Hora in a more relaxed way.
Fine beaches, captivating history, memorable villages and towns – that’s Crete.

Chania (Hania) is where you will want to spend time in and base yourself. The Old Town is especially charming, and there are some accommodation and dining options with incredible character that will make your Greek Island vacation memorable.

Saturday, February 20, 2010

BELIZE





Winding through the low-lying plains of the Belize District are the steady currents of the mighty Belize river whispering the secrets of the ancient Maya and early settlers who once lived, farmed and traded along this mighty waterway.

Inland waterways, once busy thoroughfares for colonial mahogany cutters, cross much of the district creating habitats for an abundance of wildlife. Scattered on or near to its banks and lagoon network are old Creole villages with names like Double Head Cabbage, Bermudian Landing and Crooked Tree where cashew trees, tilapia farms and water birds abound. Also home to the largest city in the country, Belize City is formerly the nation’s capital. The Belize district pulsates with an infused mix of old-world charm and modern comfort.Visitor adventures include the: The Maya temples of Altun Ha where Belize’s famous Jade Head was founded by archaeologists; the magnificent Jabiru storks at Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary; Black Howler monkeys at Community Baboon Sanctuary and, the historical islands offshore Belize City. St George’s Caye is the site of the 1798 battle where the British defeated the Spaniards to lay claim to Belize’s territory.All major international flights land in the Belize district at the Belize International Airport, a few miles from Belize City and from where visitors are picked up by hotels; can rent vehicles, or catch the extensive network of scheduled flights local airlines to all parts of the country.
Belize City
Belize City, featuring a harmonious melting pot of ethnicities, is best known as the cultural and business epicenter of Belize, as well as a doorway for cruise passengers to the country’s endless offering of diverse adventures. A tourist destination in itself, Belize City offers a variety of cultural and historical centers, charming colonial architecture and great excursions - from eclectic shopping and dining to archaeology tours and jungle river adventures.
Belize City, a bustling port city, is the commercial center of the country. The country’s largest hotels are found here with extensive conference facilities, professional services, as well as restaurants, bars, nightlife, Belize’s only cruise passenger terminal, the Museum of Belize and numerous historical sites. Offshore islands offer idyllic day tours for snorkeling, diving and relaxing

Friday, February 12, 2010

snowboarding destinations


Whistler, Canada

Altitude: 653-675m; Highest lift: 2,284m; Pistes: 40/110/50 beginner/intermediate/advanced; Closest airport: Vancouver Airport, 120km; Closest rail station: Whistler. A round trip from Vancouver costs C$199; Resort website: whistlerblackcomb.com
Why? Whistler consistently tops the podium in "best ever" polls because it never stops progressing. Its funparks are the best in the business, its pistes are always corduroy in the mornings, its freeriding terrain is easily accessible and - due to the proximity of the Pacific - often blessed with powder. New for this year is the Peak-To-Peak gondola (due to open at the beginning of December), which will directly link Whistler and Blackcomb mountains for the first time and further increase the scope of the place. And for 2009, expect the forward-thinking park shapers to be experimenting with their snow-shaping toys in readiness for the 2010 Olympics.
Getting there: Neilson (neilson.co.uk, 0845 0703460) has seven nights' accommodation at the Holiday Inn Sunspree, Whistler from £1,018 in December including scheduled Air Canada flights from Heathrow and all transfers.
Where to party: Garfunkels and The Boot are the two biggest snowboard-hangouts in town.
Les Arcs, France
Altitude: 850m (Bourg St Maurice), 1,600m, 1,800m, 1,950m and 2,000m; Highest lift: 3,250m; Pistes: 144/66/29 beginner/intermediate/advanced (with Paradiski neighbour La Plagne included); Closest airport: Geneva, 135km; Closest rail station: Bourg St Maurice; Resort website: lesarcs.com
Why? Take the train to Bourg and you're at the end of the line. As a town it's not the prettiest in the Alps, but its access to Les Arcs (via a funicular train that runs every 20 minutes between 7:30am and 7:20pm) is superb, and the resort is one of the most snowboard-friendly in France, featuring several funparks and world-class terrain. The Vanoise Express is scheduled to re-open in time for Christmas 2008, completing the Paradiski link with La Plagne and Peisey-Vallandry and further broadening Bourg's reach for snowboarders.

Friday, February 5, 2010

New7Wonders of Nature Vesuvius,Mud Volcanoes ,Devil's Town




New7Wonders of Nature
Vesuvius ITALY
Mount Vesuvius (in Italian Monte Vesuvio and in Latin Mons Vesuvius) is a stratovolcano east of Naples, Italy. It is the only volcano on the European mainland to have erupted within the last hundred years, although it is not currently erupting. The two other volcanoes in Italy, (Etna and Stromboli) are located on islands.
Mount Vesuvius is on the coast of the Bay of Naples, about nine kilometres (six miles) east of Naples and a short distance from the shore. It is conspicuous in the beautiful landscape presented by that bay, when seen from the sea, with Naples in the foreground.
Mount Vesuvius is best known for its eruption in AD 79 that led to the destruction of the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum and the death of 10,000 to 25,000 people. It has erupted many times since and is today regarded as one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world because of the population of 3,000,000 people living nearby and its tendency towards explosive (Plinian) eruptions. It is the most densely populated volcanic region in the world. Mount Vesuvius was regarded by the Greeks and Romans as being sacred to the hero and demigod Heracles/Hercules, and the town of Herculaneum, built at its base, was named after him.
Mud Volcanoes AZERBAIJAN
The term mud volcano or mud dome is used to refer to formations created by geo-excreted liquids and gases, although there are several different processes which may cause such activity. Temperatures are much cooler than igneous processes. The largest structures are 10 km in diameter and reach 700 metres in height.
About 20% of released gases are methane, with much less carbon dioxide and nitrogen emitted. Ejected materials often are a slurry of fine solids suspended in liquids which may include water (frequently acidic or salty) and hydrocarbon fluids.
Djavolja Varos, SERBIA
Djavolja Varos (Serbian Cyrillic: Ђавоља варош, meaning "Devil's Town") is a peculiar rock formation, located in south Serbia on the Radan Mountain near Kuršumlija. It features 202 exotic formations described as earth pyramids or "towers", as the locals refer to them. They are 2-15 m tall and 4-6 m wide at the base. These formations were created by strong erosion of the soil that was scene of intense volcanic activity millions of years ago. [1] Most of the towers have "caps" or "heads" of andesite, which protect them from further erosion.[2]
Since 1959, Đavolja Varoš has been protected by the state and a 1995 decision of the Serbian Government declared it a major natural monument subject to category one protection.[3]
A natural spring is located beneath the formations and has a high mineral concentration. There are two springs: Đavolja voda (Devil’s Water), with extremely acidic water (pH 1.5) and high mineral concentration (15 g/l of water), and Crveno vrelo (Red Well).[3]
Đavolja Varoš is a nominee in the New Seven Wonders of Nature campaign

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

New7Wonders of Nature Finalists





Dead Sea
ISRAEL, JORDAN, PALESTINE
The Dead Sea (Yam Hamelakh -- "The Salt Sea") is the lowest place on earth, roughly 1,300 feet (400 meters) below sea level. It is 34 miles (55 km.) long and varies between 11 miles (18 km.) and 2 miles (3 km.) in width. The Sea is 1,400 feet (430 m.) deep. This unique sea is fed by the Jordan River. There is no outflow; and the exceptionally high rate of evaporation (high temperatures, low humidity) produces large quantities of raw chemicals. These are extracted and exported throughout the world for use in medicine, agriculture and industry.
The Dead Sea is actually shrinking. The southern end is now fed by a canal maintained by the Dead Sea Works, a company that converts the Sea's raw materials, particularly phosphates, into commercial products.
Floating is a novelty that makes visiting the Dead Sea a kick, but most visitors come for the therapeutic value of the mud and salt water. People with skin disorders such as psoriasis and ailments such as arthritis have found relief from treatments using the Sea's natural resources

Galapagos
ECUADOR
The islands lie in the Pacific Ocean about 1,000 km from the South American coast and straddling the Equator. There are 13 large islands, 6 smaller ones and 107 islets and rocks, with a total land area of about 8,000 square kilometres. The islands are volcanic in origin and several volcanoes in the west of the archipelago are still very active. Galapagos is a province of the Republic of Ecuador and five of the islands are inhabited, with a total population of around 18,000 people. The capital is Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal Island, although the largest town is Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz.
Galapagos is home to many unique, endemic animals, most of which are fearless due to the lack of natural predators. One of the best known, the giant tortoise, has evolved into fourteen distinct forms on the different islands of the archipelago. Other reptiles include the marine iguana which grazes on seaweed, land iguanas, lava lizards, geckos and snakes. The only terrestrial mammals are rice rats and two species of bat. The 13 species of small, brownish finches are adapted to a range of different foods and are known collectively as Darwin's finches. They have been important to scientists trying to understand how evolution occurs, and include the tool-using woodpecker finch. Other endemic (only found in Galapagos) land birds include a hawk, dove, flycatcher, rail and four species of mockingbird.
Komodo
INDONESIA
Komodo Island in Indonesia is about 500 KM East of Bali and is isolated from other islands. This has allowed endemic animal species to develop. To protect the large monitor lizards much of this island has been maintained as a National Park.
Many close encounters with these potentially dangerous animals can be experienced.

Monday, February 1, 2010

New7Wonders of Nature Finalists






Angel Falls
VENEZUELA
Angel Falls is the highest waterfall in the world, at 1,002 m, and is located in the Canaima National Park in Bolivar State, along Venezuela’s border with Brazil. It is more than 19 times higher than Niagara Falls. The uninterrupted descent of water falls 807 m.
Bay of Fundy
CANADA
The Bay of Fundy is renown for having the highest tides on the planet (16.2 metres or 53 feet). One hundred billion tonnes of sea water flows in and out of the Bay of Fundy twice daily – more water than the combined flow of all the world’s fresh water rivers. Fundy’s extreme tides create a dynamic and diverse marine ecosystem. The Bay is renown for its coastal rock formations, extreme tidal effects (vertical, horizontal, rapids and bores) and sustainable coastal development. It is also a critical international feeding ground for migratory birds, a vibrant habitat for rare and endangered Right whales, one of the world’s most significant plant and animal fossil discovery regions. The Bay of Fundy is located between the Canadian provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia on North America’s east coast.
Black Forest
GERMANY
Black Forest (Schwarzwald) is a wooded mountain range in southwestern It is bordered by the Rhine valley to the west and south. The highest peak is the mountain Feldberg with an elevation of 1,493 meters. The region is almost rectangular with a length of 200 km and breadth of 60 km.
.
Bu Tinah Island
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Off the western shores of Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates, lies a unique natural treasure, wild and undisturbed by human activity: Bu Tinah Island. Bu Tinah’s thriving ecosystem forms a unique living laboratory with key significance for climate change research. An undisturbed paradise, Bu Tinah has much to teach mankind about environmental protection and survival. This distinctive natural habitat has shallow waters, seagrass beds and tall mangroves, set amid extensive coral reefs. It hosts beautiful and endangered marine life. Seabirds, including flamingos and osprey, various species of dolphins and the critically endangered hawksbill turtle live in Bu Tinah. The island’s waters host the world’s second-largest population of dugong, a large marine mammal that is threatened worldwide. Bu Tinah Island, rich in biodiversity, lies within the Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve - the region's largest marine reserve. Its protection and survival must be ensured.
http://www.new7wonders.com/n7w/nature/finalists

Sunday, January 31, 2010

The New7Wonders of the Nature Reserve List

The Reserve List contains nominees from the second phase of the Official New7Wonders of Nature that qualified as one of the top 77 nominees from over 440 nominees participating, but that did not qualify as one of the 28 Official Finalist Candidates announced on 21 July 2009.

These nominees also qualify to be on the Reserve List in virtue of their status as having an Official Supporting Committee and in special recognition of their campaign efforts during the second phase. Reserve List locations are not eligible to be voted as one of the Official New7Wonders of Nature, unless they are promoted as described here.

These locations will remain on the Reserve List for the entire duration of the Official New7Wonders of Nature, unless promoted. You can continue to support participants on the Reserve List by using the international telephone voting line (there is no web voting and no national telephone voting for the Reserve List), and details on how to support by telephone are provided below.

Very important: should one of the 28 Official Finalist Candidates be suspended and then eliminated from the Official New7Wonders of Nature campaign, for example for non observation of the rules of participation, then New7Wonders will select a replacement Official Finalist Candidate from the top seven Reserve List nominees.
Although we expect all 28 Official Finalist Candidates to fully observe the rules of participation, there may be an unexpected situation where an elimination is decided, which then will offer a chance for one of the highest-ranked Reserve List locations.

You can support the Reserve List locations using the international telephone voting line, available 24 hours a day, for you to call and vote at any time, from any international telephone line anywhere in the world.
http://www.new7wonders.com/n7w/reserve-list

Rank Nominee name 1 Belogradchik Rocks 2 Djavolja Varos 3 Cox's Bazaar Beach 4 Al-hasa Oasis 5 Retezat National Park 6 Eisriesenwelt Cave 7 Colca Canyon 8 Kaziranga National Park 9 Bialowieza Forest 10 Laguna Colorada 11 Han-Sur-Lesse Caves 12 Mount Olympus 13 Conchi 14 Strbske Pleso Lake

New7Wonders of Nature

The Official New7Wonders of Nature campaign started in 2007, immediately after the successful campaign to elect the man-made Official New 7 Wonders of the World , in which more than 100 million votes were cast and which took democracy to a new global level. From over 440 participants representing over 220 countries - more countries than participate in the Olympic Games - and through a national qualification and race to become one of the Top 77, as well as the Panel of Experts recommendation of the list of 28 Official Finalist Candidates, the Official New7Wonders of Nature is now in its third and final phase in which the wonders themselves will be chosen by an estimated 1 billion votes. The Official Declaration of the New7Wonders of Nature will be in 2011.New7Wonders of Nature finalists
Voting will continue throughout 2010 and into 2011. During this time, the New7Wonders World Tour will aim to visit each of the Finalists to allow them to present themselves to the voters across the globe. New7Wonders Founder and President Bernard Weber notes, “We are finding the New7Wonders of Nature campaign to be excitingly different from the first campaign. So many breathtakingly beautiful, natural places are still quite unknown to many. From waterfalls to fjords, rainforests to mountain peaks, freshwater lakes to volcanoes, we are discovering together the incredible beauty and variety of our planet.”
New7Wonders of Nature Finalists
http://www.new7wonders.com/n7w/nature/finalists
Amazon BOLIVIA, BRAZIL, COLOMBIA, ECUADOR, FRENCH GUIANA, GUYANA, PERU, SURINAME, VENEZUELA
Angel Falls VENEZUELA
Bay of Fundy CANADA
Black Forest GERMANY
Bu Tinah Island UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Cliffs of Moher IRELAND
Dead Sea ISRAEL, JORDAN, PALESTINE
El Yunque PUERTO RICO
Galapagos ECUADOR
Grand Canyon UNITED STATES
Great Barrier Reef AUSTRALIA, PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Halong Bay VIET NAM
Iguazu Falls ARGENTINA, BRAZIL
Jeita Grotto LEBANON
Jeju Island KOREA (SOUTH)
Kilimanjaro TANZANIA
Komodo INDONESIA
Maldives MALDIVES
Masurian Lake District POLAND
Matterhorn/Cervino ITALY, SWITZERLAND
Milford Sound NEW ZEALAND
Mud Volcanoes AZERBAIJAN
Puerto Princesa Underground River PHILIPPINES
Sundarbans BANGLADESH, INDIA
Table Mountain SOUTH AFRICA
Uluru AUSTRALIA
Vesuvius ITALY
Yushan CHINESE TAIPEI

Friday, January 29, 2010

Amazon adventure








To discover the remote and protected areas of the Amazon will undoubtedly be an unforgettable adventure in your life. The Amazon rainforest ecosystem offers a wide variety of flora (more than 25,000 different sorts of plants) and fauna. You can find many different species of palms, orchids, trees, vines as well as exotic animals such as crocodiles, river turtles, pink dolphins, monkeys and a diversity of birds like macaws, toucans, hoatzins and many others, which present themselves frankly for bird watching. With a little bit of luck you can even see rare animal species like ocelots, sloths, tapirs, anacondas, Amazon River dolphins, jaguars or even harpy eagles on your expedition.
he Amazon River Basin is home to the largest rainforest on Earth. The basin -- roughly the size of the forty-eight contiguous United States -- covers some 40% of the South American continent and includes parts of eight South American countries: Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, and Suriname, as well as French Guiana, a department of France.

Reflecting environmental conditions as well as past human influence, the Amazon is made up of a mosaic of ecosystems and vegetation types including rainforests, seasonal forests, deciduous forests, flooded forests, and savannas. The basin is drained by the Amazon River, the world's largest river in terms of discharge, and the second longest river in the world after the Nile. The river is made up of over 1,100 tributaries, 17 of which are longer than 1000 miles, and two of which (the Negro and the Madeira) are larger, in terms of volume, than the Congo (formerly the Zaire) river. The river system is the lifeline of the forest and its history plays an important part in the development of its rainforests.
Tourism in the Amazon rainforest is increasing, although it doesn't play a major role in the economic life of the region. There are some reasons that keep the regular tourist away from the Amazon rainforest. The most important is the lack of reliable information making it much harder to plan a trip to the Amazon than to other places.
Another problem is the fear from tropical exotic diseases like Yellow Fever or Malaria. Both are very present in the forest, but both also have effective vaccines you can (and you should) take before you visit the region. There is a fear of crime and violence created by drug dealers and other criminals, but this is shouldn't be a fear, as the Amazon rainforest is relatively safe place to travel. Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo are much more dangerous places. There is fear from the wildlife, some people panic just to think of being in a place where even the frogs can be poisonous. There are crocodiles, giant snakes and predators like the Jaguar, but chances are you won't have any problem with wildlife except for the mosquitoes .
But the real problem inhibiting tourism in the Amazon rainforest region is the lack of tourism infrastructure. This means good airports and hotels , multi-lingual speaking staffs and regular attractions like expeditions to remote areas. You can only find most of these in big cities like Belem and Manaus , but truly inside the forest you can't, at least not in a direct way.
If you want to really know the region you can hire local boats with a guide, cook and all the staff you need to make whatever expedition you like for many days. You can go deep into the forest with those boats to see and hear all the abundant wildlife. To do this you will probably need a specialized guide. You can find guides like that in specific travel agencies in or outside Brazil , as they can provide you with all the information you need to enjoy your trip like not many people have done.
You can also travel by yourself or in small groups and have a less planned trip. Some people have their lives so planned that this is exactly what they don't want in their vacations. These are good for people with less money also, as it's very cheap to travel in the region if you are not going through a travel agency package. Of course its more risky and you need to be prepared for a couple of mistakes that will cost time and maybe some food adaptation problems, usual stuff in an adventurous trip.
Any way you choose to tour the Amazon rainforest you will like and have a very pleasant and astonishing trip. You will take pictures that you will keep for the rest of your life and make all your friends speechless. It's really an unforgivable and unique place in the world and every person should have the opportunity to experience it.
If you are not convinced yet, there is still one more reason you be aware. Tourism in the Amazon rainforest is one of the ways to preserve its biological and ethnic diversity. What tourism does is to provide the local populations an alternative for making their living honestly. If there are no alternatives the local population has an extremely difficult decision to make, should they start to work in illegal activities or bear the lack of resources to sustain their family. For a poor individual someone offering them money equivalent to what they would earn in a year just to capture a bird or a frog is very tempting, even more in countries that don't have great police capabilities and wide spread poverty.

Monday, January 25, 2010

Nepal








The capital city, Kathmandu is enriched with temples more than homes and festivals exceeding the number of days in a year. The whole valley with its seven heritage sites has been enlisted in cultural World Heritage Site list. The place, which blends cultural vigor with modern facilities possible on earth is place liked by tourists been here. The place has more to offer and it is not only administrative capital of the country but to the fullest extend capital of traditional culture and physical resources. Three Durbar Squares - Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, Pashupatinath, Bouddhanath, Swoyambhunath and Changunarayan are the places most revered by the Kathmanduities and whole world.
Kathmandu is not big when one compares it to other cities in South Asia. Kathmandu is a fascinating old city today where pagodas, narrow cobbled lanes, old carved windows, and stone shrines are backdrops to the drama of life that continues unhindered. Here the experiences are amazing, views fascinating, and the climate charming.
There are living Goddesses whose smiles are a benediction. There are reincarnate Lamas who foresee the future with a roll of dice and scriptural reference. There are walks that lead the adventurous to legendary places where ogres once lived. There are hidden gardens behind palaces yet unseen and courtyards where miracles happen, and a city the Buddha visited.
The natural beauty of Pokhara in Midwestern Nepal is simply bewitching. Forming the backdrop are the spectacular Annapurna Mountains with the magnificent fish-tailed Machhapuchhre dominating the scene. Adding to Pokhara's enchantment are the three serene lakes of Phewa, Rupa and Begnas. Lumbini, in the southwest, is the birthplace of Lord Buddha and a World Heritage Site. An inscription on the Ashoka Pillar identifies the Sacred Garden as the place where the Buddha was born. Lumbini has a number of artistic temples and monasteries built through international support.
UNESCO recalls Chitwan as one of the few remaining undisturbed vestiges of the 'Terai' region, which formerly extended over the foothills of India and Nepal at the foot of the Himalayas. The Chitwan National Park has been enlisted in natural World Heritage Site. It has a particularly rich flora and fauna. One of the last populations of single-horned Asiatic rhinoceros lives in the park, which is also one of the last refuges of the Bengal tiger.
Nepal has nine National Parks, three Wildlife Reserves, three Conservation Areas and one Hunting Reserve. About 15,000 square kilometers amounting to almost 18 percent of the total area is protected. This is an amazing commitment to conservation.
Nepal where major chunk of area is occupied by villages has tremendous potential in rural tourism. Its main aim is to link Village Development and Sustainable Tourism through the generation of income, employment and local markets for agricultural products and handicrafts. Other objectives include the provision of incentives for forestation and nature conservation and the creation of a global family through the encounter between rural Nepalese people and foreign tourists during village home stays, resulting in mutual understanding and learning.

The main target group of the program is women who will be the main beneficiaries due to new income opportunities. It is a rural enterprise owned and operated by the local people. It is a group activity, and benefits are shared among as many villages and individuals as possible. "Village Trek", visits to indigenous people are the activities, which will make tourists, experience rural life and Nepalese hospitality off the beaten path with all the beautiful scenery and cultural diversity of Nepal.

Accommodation is in individual guestrooms with host families or, in between villages, in tents. During the trekking, meals are prepared by a professional team. In the villages, the visitors can try a delicious, hygienically prepared Nepali "Daalbhaat" consisting of locally produced rice, lentils and garden-fresh, organically grown vegetables. The guestrooms are simple, but clean and cozy.
Nepal first came into world focus when Tenzing Norgay Sherpa of Nepal and Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand conquered Mt. Everest in 1953. Ever since, there have been countless expeditions heading off to the Himalayas. With eight of world’s highest peaks within Nepal’s boundaries, there is tremendous interest in the Nepal Himalaya. Most of the peaks over 8000m high were conquered during the Golden Decade of Climbing in the 1950s. Climbing by then had become a national affair with various nations vying with each other to be the first to climb. Today it is all about breaking records. There are some 326 peaks in Nepal open for mountaineering today.

Climbing permits for peaks in the Nepal Himalayas are issued for all seasons by the Mountaineering Section of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation. The requisite official documents must be furnished when seeking permission to climb. Around 121 peaks do not require liaison officers for expedition while the rest must be accompanied by one.

Climbing gear and equipments can be bought or rented in Kathmandu or the whole expedition can be handled by mountaineering and trekking agencies. All logistics are taken care of by these agencies including gear, food, transportation, guide and porter services. They also arrange for insurance coverage. Always choose an agency that has a good track record.

Friday, January 22, 2010

KENYA






For a country of its size, Kenya sure packs a lot in: mountains and deserts, colourful tribal culture, beaches and coral reefs, and some of Africa’s best wildlife attractions. In fact, to say Kenya is Africa in microcosm would not be stretching the point. There are a million different reasons to come here, and picking just one is nigh impossible. Stunning landscapes set the scene, from Kakamega’s rainforests to Indian Ocean beaches by way of Mt Kenya National Park; the rolling grasslands of the Masai Mara to searing deserts on the shores of the Jade Sea; with The Rift Valley, home to Hell's Gate National Park, cleaving a massive gash through it all.
Wildlife safaris have been the mainstay of Kenya’s tourism for decades, and several Kenyan parks, like Tsavo National Park, are among the best places in Africa to see lions, elephants, leopards and the famous wildebeest migration. Kenya rates as one of the top five bird-watching destinations in the world; other activities for outdoor enthusiasts include trekking the glacial ridges of Mt Kenya, ballooning over the Masai Mara, snorkelling at the Marine National Park in Malindi on the Indian Ocean coast, and much more besides. Kenya's biggest city, Nairobi, with the baddest of reputations, is sidestepped by many visitors, but, in fairness, has an interesting urban appeal with its cafes and nightlife.
The people, too, represent a wide cross-section of everything that is contemporary Africa, and everyday life brings together traditional tribes and urban families; ancient customs and modern sensibilities. Swapping the latest political gossip with the switched-on locals is just one more small pleasure that comes with the culture.
Few places provide the extraordinary opportunity to view wildlife in its natural habitat. East Africa's reputation as the quintessential kenya safaris destination is well deserved. This is a region of dramatic contrasts and extraordinary wildlife on display in uncrowded and pristine landscapes of great beauty and variety. It’s hard to rival the range of travel choices Kenya offers from scenic Kenya safari tours to cultural immersion; from lounging on pristine beaches to the adventure travels; from a broad range of sporting activities to an endless list of special interest opportunities.
Modern Nairobi, the safari capital of Africa, is a perfect place to combine the safari and shopping experience. Nairobi is a place of great contrasts where diverse cultures all become components of a unique Nairobi character.

The city hosts several separate open markets on various locations around the city. Commonly christened the Maasai Market, this marketplace offers a wide range of local arts and crafts from all parts of the country in one single spot where travelers can look around and bargain at will.

These colorful markets are interesting to visit and a good place to find assorted indigenous gift items suited for this festive season and all year round.

A quick enquiry from your hotel or tour agent can reveal where this rotational markets are held and on which days. Nairobi undeniably has numerous options for the ardent shopper.

Kitengela Glass Studios – Everything is unique, nothing is wasted
Kitengela Glass Studios, located just outside the city of Nairobi, provides the perfect location for a day trip, ideal for the entire family. Here you can truly combine the safari and shopping experience.

The studio borders Nairobi National Park, the world’s only wildlife capital. The park’s rolling plains are home to buffalo, zebra, black rhino, giraffe and diverse birdlife. Cheetah and lions are often seen. Visitors can take a game drive through the park on the way to the studios.

The ambience at the studio, complete with sculptures, unique architectural designs, mosaic pathways and a backdrop of the thriving modern Nairobi city is an unforgettable one. For those who do not fear heights, a walk across the suspension bridge linking Silole Sanctuary and Kitengela Glass provides the added thrill to the whole experience.

Visitors have the opportunity to see the artistic styles of the local skilled artisans as they transform recycled glass and scraps of other materials into beautiful works of art, jewellery and home-ware. The patience and skill devoted to the entire process is simply remarkable as is the final product.

Recycled materials form the bulk of the medium used - nothing is wasted.

Melted scrap glass is meticulously shaped to form beautiful glass pieces, walls and walkways lined with bottle tops and scrap glass pieces creating astonishing mosaics. Steam injected oil is used to power the furnaces, all aimed at getting the most out of the materials used and striving for a low lifetime energy consumption.

The wide variety of glass hand made products available at Kitengela make exceptional gift items. Say it with glass...

For those looking to extend their stay, accommodation is available at the adjacent Maasai Lodge. Large groups planning to visit the studio or wish to make any sort of special request should call for appointments.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

PHILIPPINES






The second-largest archipelago in the world, with over 7000 tropical islands, the Philippines is one of the great treasures of Southeast Asia. Often overlooked by travellers because of its location on the ‘wrong’ side of the South China Sea, the Philippines rewards those who go the extra distance to reach it. And because it’s off the beaten path, the Philippines is a great place to escape the hordes who descend on other parts of Southeast Asia. First and foremost, the Philippines is a place of natural wonders – a string of coral-fringed islands strewn across a vast expanse of the western Pacific. Below sea level, the Philippines boasts some of the world’s best diving and snorkelling, including wreck diving around Coron and swimming with the whale sharks off Donsol. Above sea level, it has a fantastic landscape with wonders enough to stagger even the most jaded traveller: the Chocolate Hills of Bohol, Banaue & the Rice Terraces and fascinating reminders of the islands’ history in places such as Samar & Leyte and Vigan. And if you’re after palm-fringed, white-sand beaches, try laidback Sipalay or flat-out party town Boracay.
Of course, any traveller who has been here will tell you that it’s the people and their culture that makes the Philippines unique. Long poised at the centre of Southeast Asian trade, colonised by a succession of world powers, the Philippines is a vivid tapestry that reflects its varied cultural inheritance. And despite the poverty that afflicts much of the nation, the Filipinos themselves are among the most ebullient and easygoing people anywhere. The Philippines truly qualifies as one of the last great frontiers in Southeast Asian travel. Cross whichever ocean you need to and see for yourself.
The climate is tropical, with March to May (summer) being the hottest months. The rainy season starts in June and extends through October with strong typhoons possible. The coolest months are from November to February, with mid-January to end of February considered the best for cooler and dryer weather. Locations exposed directly to the Pacific Ocean have frequent rainfall all year. This includes the popular Pagsanjan Falls southeast of Manila (though the falls will get you wet regardless). The average temperatures range from 78°F / 25°C to 90°F / 32°C, and humidity is around 77 percent. Baguio, which is branded as the summer capital of the Philippines, tends to be cooler due to its being located in mountainous regions with temperatures at night going below 20°C (68°F).

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Santorini,Greece






Santorini is the most famous, & most beautiful of the Greek Islands. The island consists of a volcanic rim overlooking the sea filled caldera. Commonly seens as the world's best place to watch the sunset, the northern village of Oia offers spectacular views of the ocean, the island of Ios in the distance, & the sun dipping into the Aegean.
The island of is known for it incredible villages. Some of them are perched on the top of 300 m high cliffs and offer gorgeous views. The island of Santorini is less known for its beaches which have the particularity, for most of them, to have black sand.
Santorini Island is actually a grouping of a few volcanic islands surrounding a large caldera formed primarily hundreds of thousands of years ago. At that time, a large Santorini volcano eruption collapsed the interior section of land that filled with water. Excavations on Santorini island show human inhabitation dating back to the 3rd millennium BC, and cultures such as the Minoans lived on the island. However, Santorini volcano erupted again around the time of 1500 BC, leaving the island buried beneath layers of volcanic ash. This eruption was among the most significant volcanic eruptions in the last couple of thousand of years, and it contributed again to the formation of the large caldera. Two “young” islands are located in the center of the Santorini island caldera, and they are named Palea Kameni, and Nea Kameni. Palea Kameni is shy of 2,000 years old, while Nea Kameni began to emerge 425 years ago. Nearly fifty years ago, the Santorini volcano, as these islands are called by locals, experienced its last series of major lava flows on Nea Kameni.
The volcanic activity of Santorini Greece, having defined the island’s landscape, had contributed to some of the most unique Greece beaches. Sand colors like red to black characterize some of these beaches, giving them an appearance and feel that is hard to find anywhere else. At Red Beach, the rich red sand gives way to blue sea in front of it and scaling red cliffs behind. The volcanic-rich soil is also responsible in aiding in the production of some notable wines from Santorini island, and Santorini’s version of Greek food revolves highly around the local agricultural products.
In regards to unique Greece tours found on Santorini island, hiking is among the most popular. The longest Santorini Greece hiking excursion tour lasts close to 3 hours, and begins in the island’s capital of Fira, ending in the wonderful village of Oia. Oia is a prime destination for visitors to Santorini, its white-washed buildings perched atop overlooking the caldera. Especially during the summer, tourists come to Oia for its charming ambiance and superb sunsets. Shorter Santorini Greece hiking tours that last less than 3 hours can be found on Santorini as well. Regardless of the length of the experience, you will surely get a taste of the island’s scenery. Sea Excursions are another popular idea for tours on the island, and visiting Palea and Nea Kameni by boat is a wonderful way to sail the caldera and look back on the high cliffs surrounding it. Coach tours, or bus trips, are another popular way to see some of the sights of Santorini and they are usually easy on your budget. A popular full-day bus trip starts in Fira, with a highlight being a stop at the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, followed by a wine-tasting excursion to Profitis Ilias. The trip rounds out at Perissa, where you can enjoy a swim at one of the island’s most notable beaches and grab some lunch. Then you return back to Fira.
Santorini offers so much to do, and you could ideally spend your entire Greece vacation here taking advantage of the wealth of options. Visitors to Santorini can one day visit archeaological sites, and another day relax at the beach. A truly unique mix of museums can be found at Santorini, and you’ll likely want to visit some of them to gain insight to the island’s past inhabitants. Wine lovers should include a stop at The Wine Museum, found at the “Volcan Wines” winery along the route to Kamari Beach. There, you’ll get an in-depth look at Santorini wine production from 1660-1950. The nightlife and entertainment of Santorini Greece is renowned, and whether you want it loud and crazy, or tame and tidy, you’ll find the right spot for you.