AROMA OF INFORMATION

CHILDREN OF TODAY; LEADERS OF TOMORROW

2011-09-17T03:25:00.000-07:00

The most important thing that a leader should have is the power to say “I don’t know”. A person who says “I don’t know” in front of pupils are different from others. To say the sentence like this need a big self confidence. They should frank enough to say this. Normally children of these ages just avoid saying that they do not know. These are the mentality of these ages. But we should overcome this and we should out frankly. A good leader must have a good potentiality speak out.
The next quality that a leader should have is to follow. The good leader will and should always follow his coordinates. They should listen to their pupils. A leader should not make decisions in his own. If he does, then he is not a perfect leader.
Leaders of the future should “challenge with respect”. For example if the mam says” tomorrow I may get absent so try to finish 25 pages in your classwork” the leader work is to say “mam it is impossible to finish 25 pages so kindly reduce them”. This is the most responsibility for the leader.
Children of today are not hardworking but hardly working. The leaders of tomorrow should work hardly to achieve success to the country. So make it a habit of working hard.
Students should have a good creativity through out their minds. Creativity means realizing our thoughts. Thoughts make us what we think. Former president Abdul kalam also stated the same.
View of our negative thing is called as change. We should have a mindful change. Body change is also important but only for such extent. Mindful change should wake up. One should preserve a mindful change to achieve.
Leaders are not born as leaders but they are made. There may be many ways to become a big in life but, according to me there are four ways. They are,

Leaders are not born as leaders but they are made. There may be many ways to become a big in life but, according to me there are four ways. They are,
Having an aim in life.
Acquire all the skills to fulfill the aim.
Preserve even you fail several times.
Work very hard.
And also work very honestly.

2010-01-16T04:29:00.000-08:00

Structure of tooth

A tooth is formed of a substance called dentine which is harder than bone. It has three parts. The upper part the crown, and the middle part the neck and the root is the lower part. The tooth is fixed in a socket by means of the cement which is in the region of neck and root. The crown is covered by a shining and soft material called the enamel. The enamel is the hardest substance in the body and it is made up of calcium carbonate and calcium phosphate. Inside the tooth is the pulp cavity which contains blood capillaries and lymph vessels and a nerves.
The tongue is muscular and it lies attached to the floor of the buccal cavity. It rotates the food well in mouth and mixes it with saliva. There are three pairs of salivary glands, the parotid in the cheek, sublingual in the beneath the tongue, the sub maxillary below the angles of the jaw. The saliva secreted by the glands help the food is swallowed as bolus into the oesophagus. When the food is swallowed, the epiglottis at the pharynx closes the opening of the wind pipe or trachea

2009-02-08T02:54:00.000-08:00

Name: allah rakkha rahman.
Birth name: a.s dileep kumar.
Born: january 6, 1966 age 43 in chennai, tamilnadu, india.

Occupation: Composer, record producer, music director, singer, instrumentalist, arranger, programmer
Years active: 1992- present

A. R. Rahman was born to a Tamil Hindu family. His father R. K. Shekhar was a composer and conductor for Malayalam-language films of Keralite cinema. His father died when Rahman was nine years old, and his family rented out musical equipment as a source of income.
He converted to Islam from Hinduism in 1989 along with his family. During these early years, Rahman served as a keyboard player and an arranger in bands such as "Roots" with childhood friend and percussionist Sivamani, John Anthony, JoJo and Raja. Rahman is the founder of the Chennai-based rock group, "Nemesis Avenue". He played the keyboard and piano, the synthesizer, the harmonium and the guitar. His curiosity in the synthesizer in particular increased because, he says, it was the “ideal combination of music and technology". He began early training in music under Master Dhanraj. At the age of 11, he joined, as a keyboardist, the troupe of Ilaiyaraaja, one of many composers to whom musical instruments belonging to Rahman's father were rented. Rahman later played in the orchestra of M. S. Viswanathan and Ramesh Naidu, accompanied Zakir Hussain, Kunnakudi Vaidyanathan and L. Shankar on world tours and obtained a scholarship to Trinity College of Music in London, where he graduated with a degree in Western classical music.

Awards
Rahman is the 1995 recipient of the Mauritius National Award and the Malaysian Award for contributions to music. He was nominated for a Laurence Olivier Award for his first West-End production. A four time National Film Award winner and conferred the Padma Shri from the Government of India, Rahman has received six awards for Best Music at the Tamil Nadu State Film Awards and eleven awards for his scores at the Filmfare and Filmfare Awards South each. In 2006, he received an honorary award from Stanford University for contributions to global music.[31] A 2008 Critics Choice Awards winner for Best Composer, Rahman became the first Indian national to win a Golden Globe, winning for Slumdog Millionaire in the category of Best Original Score.[32] Rahman received three Academy Award nominations in 2009—Best Original Score and two different Best Original Songs for the same movie.[33]
Social service
Rahman is involved in various charitable causes. In 2004, he was appointed as the Global Ambassador of the Stop TB Partnership, a project by WHO.[8] He has shown support to charities including Save the Children, India, and worked with Cat Stevens / Yusuf Islam for his song "Indian Ocean" . The song featured a-ha keyboard player Magne Furuholmen and Travis drummer, Neil Primrose. The proceeds of the song went towards helping orphans in Banda Aceh, one of the areas worst affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami. He also supports charities such as Save the Children and has also produced the single "We Can Make It Better" by Don Asian alongside Mukhtar Sahota. In 2008, Rahman opened his KM Music Conservatory partnered with Audio Media Education facility to tutor and train aspiring musicians in vocals, instruments, music technology and sound design. The conservatory contains also a panel with preeminent musicians and a newly founded symphony orchestra. It is located near his studio in Kodambakkam, Chennai, offering courses at Beginners, Foundation and Diploma level. Rahman composed the theme music for a short film for The Banyan in 2006, in aid of destitute women in Chennai. In 2008, Rahman, along with percussionist Sivamani created a song titled "Jiya Se Jiya", inspired by the Free Hugs Campaign and promoted it through a video shot in various cities in India.

WELLINGTON – the young nation

2009-01-17T00:27:00.002-08:00

WELLINGTON – the young nation

Wellington is the capital of New Zealand, probably the youngest country of the world, having only nearly 1000 years of history. It is the second largest urban area, the most populous national capital in Oceania and the southern-most capital city in the world. It is in the Wellington region at the southern tip of the North Island. In Māori, Wellington Harbour and means "the great harbour of Tara". The mountainous terrain and stretches north from the central city along two corridors, the Porirua Basin and the Hutt Valley is the beauty of this island nation, having many tiny islands.

The name: Wellington was named in honour of Arthur Wellesley, the first Duke of Wellington and victor of the Battle of Waterloo. European settlement began with the arrival of the New Zealand Company on the ship "Tory", on 20 September 1839, followed by 150 settlers on the Aurora on 22 January 1840. The settlers constructed their first homes at Petone (which they called Britannia for a time) on the flat area at the mouth of the Hutt River.

In 1865, Wellington became the capital of New Zealand, replacing Auckland, where William Hobson had established his capital in 1841. Parliament first sat in Wellington on 7 July 1862, but the city did not become the official capital for some time. In November 1863 the Premier Alfred Domett moved by a resolution in the Parliament (Auckland). Parliament officially sat in Wellington for the first time on 26 July 1865. Wellington Harbour has three islands: Matiu/Somes Island, Makaro/Ward Island and Mokopuna Island. Matiu/Somes Island has been used as a quarantine station for people and animals and as an internment camp during the WWI and WWII.

The compact city Wellington has only two Km wide, is nestled between the harbour and the hills. Wellington is familiar for its buildings and structures. The oldest building in Wellington is the Colonial Cottage in Mount Cook. The tallest building in the city is the Majestic Centre on Willis Street at 116 metres high, the second tallest being the structural expressionist BNZ Tower at 103 metres. Futuna Chapel is located in Karori, was the first bicultural building in New Zealand, and is thus considered one of the most significant New Zealand buildings of the twentieth century.

Buildings: The bucket fountain Old Saint Paul's, the Museum of Wellington City & Sea building, the Bond Store, the Wellington Harbour Board Wharf Office, the St.James Theatre, the Opera House and the Embassy theatre. There are many government buildings, such as National Library of New Zealand, the Te Puni Kōkiri building on Lambton Quay. The circular-conical Executive Wing of New Zealand Parliament Buildings, generally referred as the Beehive. The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa is located on the waterfront.

Museums: Te Papa ("Our Place"), the Museum of New Zealand. Wellington is home to Te Papa Tongarewa (the Museum of New Zealand), the Museum of Wellington City & Sea, the Katherine Mansfield Birthplace Museum, Colonial Cottage, the New Zealand Cricket Museum, the Cable Car Museum, Old Saint Paul's, and the Wellington Law school (largest wooden building in the southern hemisphere) and the Wellington City Art Gallery.

Festivals: Wellington has become home to a myriad of high-profile events and cultural celebrations, including the biennial New Zealand International Arts Festival, annual International Jazz Festival, and major events such as Cuba Street Carnival, New Zealand Fringe Festival, New Zealand International Comedy Festival (also hosted in Auckland), Summer City, The Wellington Folk Festival (in Wainuiomata), New Zealand Affordable Art Show, Out in the Square, numerous film festivals, and World of Wearable Art.

culture: Wellington is also known as our rts and culture capital. Part of Wellington’s charm is its close proximity to nature. The central city is nestled between a beautiful harbour and forested hils. Wildlife sanctuaries, islands, seaside villages, ocean beaches and regional parks provide huge scope for outdoor fun. Otherthan the vibrant city and its spledour, there are many more tourist attractions are there. We can some of them.

Red Rocks Reserve: The underground volcanic eruptions formed the Red Rocks, a coastal scenic reserve close to Wellington city. Small amounts of The iron oxide content of the lava give the rocks their distinctive colouring. On the rugged south coast of Wellington, a 30 to 40 minute coastal walk leads from Owhiro Bay to the Red Rocks. There are some heresay stories about the redness of the rocks.
Kupe - the famous Polynesian explorer - was gathering paua (shellfish) here when one clamped his hand. He bled and stained the rocks red. The other story is, the blood of Kupe's daughters. Fearing for their father's safety on a long voyage, they gashed themselves in grief over his absence.

Makara Track: Makara Track is a 6 Km loop, that climbs to vantage points
with spectacular views. The track returns along the wild sea coast.
Makara Track begins and ends at Makara Beach, 16 Kms from
Wellington. The beach is at the end of Makara Road, which runs from
the south end of Karori Road.

Wellington Walkways: The northern walkway is 16 kms long and takes about four hours to complete. It is steep in some places, but not difficult
overall. Exits to suburban streets along the way allow the walk to
be taken in stages. Beginning in the suburb of Johnsonville, it
passes through several parks and through the green town belt.
Attractions along the way include spectacular views, picnic sites,
unused tunnels and the Khandallah Summer Pool.

The southern walkway provides a four to five-hour journey with
contrasting scenery along its 11 kms route. Beginning in the
harbour-side suburb of Oriental Bay, it rises through
turn-of-the-century wooden houses to the top of Mount Victoria. From
this magnificent 360 degree viewing platform, the walkway enters the
forest of the town belt.

The eastern walkway is shorter, at 2.5 kms, and takes about
one and a half hours to complete. The route passes along the
southern half of the Miramar Peninsula, from the Pass of Branda to
Tarakena Bay. The gravel track is largely exposed, allowing
spectacular views of Wellington Harbour. Along the way you'll see
many Maori historical sites and learn about the fascinating geology
and local history of this peninsula.

Mount Victoria: Mount Victoria is part of the Wellington Town Belt, land set aside in 1841 by the colonial New Zealand Company for a "public recreation
ground for the inhabitants of Wellington". It's a great place for
walking, jogging and mountain biking. At the end of the summit road, near the viewing platform, is a striking memorial to Richard Byrd, the American aviator.

Archives New Zealand: This is the country's largest repository of original
information on New Zealand's history and development. Some of the most important documents are on permanent display. Can have a see on originals of the Treaty of Waitangi, the founding document of modern New Zealand, and the 1893 Women's suffrage petition, which led to New Zealand becoming the first independent nation to give women the vote. The oldest document is the Declaration of Independence of the Northern Chiefs, signed by 34 northern Maori chiefs in 1835.

Kaitoke Regional Park: The park contains nearly 2500 hectares of mature
native forest, including beech, rimu, northern rata, hinau and kamahi. At the
popular Pakuratahi Forks, ancient rata and rimu tower over a canopy
of kamahi, hinau and miro. The park is also home to rare birds -
kaka, yellow-crowned parakeet and a significant number of New
Zealand falcon. The clear, deep pools of the Hutt and Pakuratahi Rivers are
ideal for swimming. This Park is a 50 minute drive north of downtown
Wellington.

Matiu/Somes Island: This island was originally named after Matiu, a daughter of the famous Polynesian explorer Kupe. Around 1840 it was renamed Somes Island when, along with most of the land around Wellington, it was acquired by the colonial New Zealand Company. The island is now
officially known by its bilingual name, Matiu/Somes Island, is an important
defence fortress. A lighthouse and the quarantine quarantine station are the
attractions.

Wellington Central Waterfront: To reach the waterfront, we have to cross the Queens Wharf on the City to Sea Walk Bridge, which features large Maori carvings. There are a number of interesting memorial plaques and artworks
worth viewing. From Queens Wharf follow the harbour around past Te Papa
(the national museum) and Chaffers Marina to Oriental Bay.

Wellington Botanic Garden: Here forests are complemented by a duck pond, a begonia house and cafe, colourful floral displays, a herb garden, an Australian garden and the award-winning Lady Norwood Rose Garden. Several large garden sculptures, the Sun Dial of Human Involvement and stunning views across the city and harbour add to the natural attractions of the Wellington Botanic Garden. A strong sense of pioneering days can be found in the historic Bolton Street Memorial Park section, with its heritage roses and grave stones of the city's pioneers.

Old Government Buildings: It is located opposite to Parliament buildings, stands the largest wooden building in the southern hemisphere. With imposing facades, sweeping staircases, cast iron fireplaces and kauri clad interiors, the Government Buildings is an important part of New Zealand's architectural heritage. Like many colonial buildings of last century, it was built to resemble an Italian stone palace in an attempt to convey strength and stability in the expanding empire. In 1990, in a rather run-down state, the Government Buildings ceased its role as the once proud workplace of pubic servants. Today, there is public access to the grounds, which feature gardens containing examples of New Zealand's flora, including many rare
species. Inside the Government Buildings.

Kapiti Island Nature Reserve: Kapiti Island Nature Reserve is ten kms long and two kms wide. Visitors are not permitted in large numbers. Permission is a must from Department of Conservation. Kapiti Island is now one of New Zealand’s most important sites for bird recovery. Here we can hear the creeching sounds of the birds Stitchbird, kokako, takahe, brown teal, and saddleback.

National War Memorial and Carillon: The Hall of Memories contains six memorial alcoves, designed as small side chapels. Each chapel is dedicated to a different branch of the New Zealand Armed Forces. At the far end of the central area is a bronze sculpture of a woman holding her family together, in the absence of her partner on active service. The carillon is the third largest by eight in the world and the only carillon in New Zealand. The cast bronze bells range from 13 kgs to 12.5 tonnes each, with a total weight of 70.5 tonnes. With 74 bells spanning six octaves, the carillon delights audiences with more than 200 hours of live concerts each year. Carillon bells, originating from Belgium, the Netherlands and northern France. Many carillons were confiscated and melted down for armaments in World War I & hence their peace time resurgence and association with war memorials.

The Tomb of the Unknown Warrior holds pride of place on the entrance
steps to the memorial. Its design, inspired by the Southern Cross
constellation, possesses a distinctive New Zealand character.
Wrights Hill Fortress and Recreation Reserve: This reserve has a fame of war.
During World War II gun emplacements and tunnels. These are looked after by the Wrights Hill Fortress Restoration Society. Each of the 9.2 inch guns could fire a 172 kg, 1 metre long shell up to 30 kms. It borders the Karori Wildlife Sanctuary and forms part of the ecological corridor running west and north from the sanctuary.

Karori Wildlife Sanctuary: The Karori Wildlife Sanctuary is a world-first conservation attraction, where a unique and natural area is being patiently
restored. About 8.6 kilometre perimeter fence keeps out introduced
mammalian pests, such as stoats, weasels, possums, rats and cats. An
eradication programme has removed all traces of these pests from
within park. Rare and endangered birds have been released into the
park. Here they thrive on the increasingly abundant natural food
sources.

Tunnel Gully:Tunnel Gully is a popular recreation area has historical links to the famous Rimutaka Railway.Tunnel Gully is located just north of Upper Hutt and is accessible by train and bus from Wellington.

Apart from this, the inner city of Wellington is slice of native paradise at Karori Sanctuary, home to some of New Zealand's rarities including kiwi. Can also enjoy animal antics at Wellington Zoo - New Zealand's oldest zoological park, Harbour cruises operate between the city and Days Bay, where we can find seaside cafes and quality craft shops. Take a bush walk in Otari-Wilton's Bush, New Zealand's only botanic garden dedicated solely to native forest.
Relaxations: Visit market gardens, a chocolate factory, a cooking school and olive groves. Ruth Pretty is one of New Zealand's best-loved chefs. Explore the Vineyards and spend some time tasting world class wines in the Wairarapa region, indulge in a gourmet lunch at one of the award winning wineries. Enjoy the experience Stansborough to journey from the farm and the flock to the world of fashion and films, including "Lord of the Rings" and "Narnia".

Hotels in Wellington

1.Comfort Hotel Wellington
2.Museum Hotel
3.Worldwide Backpackers
4.Copthorne Hotel
5.Majoribanks Apartments
6.Downtown Backpackers
7.Marksman Motor Inn
8.CityLife Wellington
9.Tinakori Lodge
10.Eight Parliament Street
11.Maple Lodge
12.Eight Parliament Street
13.Downtown Backpackers
14.Copthorne Hotel
15.YHA Wellington City
16.Halswell Lodge
17.Rowena's Lodge
18.Base Backpackers
19.Carillon Motor Inn
20.Wildlife House

WARSAW

2009-01-17T00:27:00.001-08:00

WARSAW

As its name implies, the city Warsaw met many wars and devasted many times. Maximum number of Humans killed and maximum amount of properties destroyed here in the early 20th cenury.

Before we going to see the Warsaw, have an idea about its country, Poland.

Poland is a Central or Eastern European country bordered by Russia, Ukrain,
Slovakia, Lithuania, Germany, Czech Republic, and Belarus, making it an ideal for
side trips in Europe or as a starting point for a multi-country vacation. While winters can be bitter, summers are mild with frequent rains; plan on traveling in
the late spring or at the height of summer.

Gdansk has one Poland’s contemporary art scenes.
Tourists can visit the Laznia Center for Contemporary Art or experience the Gdynia Film Festival. In the summer, Gdansk hosts the Street Theater Festival, which attracts acting troupes from all over the world.

Royal Castle in Krakow, Poland:
A popular tourist destination, the Royal Castle in Krakow was built in the year
1000. The castle contains elements of Gothic, Roman, and Renaissance style
architecture, due to its long history and periods of reconstruction. Visitors
can view royal chambers and historical exhibits.

Poland's Old Town Warsaw:
While much of Old Town had to be rebuilt after WWII, elements of its original
facades still remain. Renaissance tenement housing, Gothic cathedrals, and
another royal castle are all attractions to this part of Warsaw. St. John’s
Cathedral, where Poland’s kings were crowned, is located in this district.

Poland's Auschwitz:
A horrifying reminder of Holocaust, Auschwitz is open to visitors. Open daily
from 8am to 7pm, it is possible to see gas chambers, crematorium, and various
exhibits memorializing the prisoners and victims. Other concentration camps
located in Poland include Majdanek, Sobibor, and Stutthoff. All are open to
tourists.

Now we can see the brief blood tainted history of the city Warsaw and its sufferings during the world war and by the Nazies. Whenever and Whereever we came through the word Warsaw, Warsaw Pact, Warsaw Convention, Treaty of Warsaw and the Warsaw Uprising will cling in to our mind and memory.

Warsaw is the capital of Poland and its largest city. It is located on the Vistula River
roughly 370 kilometers (230 mi) from both the Baltic Sea coast and the
Carpathian Mountains. Its population as of 2006 was estimated at 1,700,536, with
a metropolitan area of approximately 3,350,000. The city area is 516.9 square
kilometers (199.6 sq mi), with an agglomeration of 6,100.43 square kilometers
(2,355.4 sq mi) (Warsaw Metro Area — Obszar Metropolitalny Warszawy). Warsaw is
the 8th largest city in the European Union.

Area: City 517 km² (199.6 sq mi)
Metro 6,100.43 km² (2,355.4 sq mi)
Population (2007)
Time zoneCET (UTC+1)
Summer (DST)CEST (UTC+2)
Postal code 00-001 to 04-999
Area code(s)+48 22
Car platesWA, WB, WD, WE, WF, WH, WI, WJ, WK, WN, WT, WU, WW, WX,WY

It has been said that Warsaw, together with Frankfurt, London and Paris, is one
of the tallest cities in Europe. 11 of the tallest skyscrapers in Poland, 9 of
which are office buildings, are located in Warsaw. The tallest structure, the
centrally located Palace of Culture and Science, is the 7th tallest building in
the European Union. In 2007 Warsaw was ranked the 67th world's most expensive city to live in.

The first fortified settlements on the site of today's Warsaw were Bródno
(9th/10th century) and Jazdów (12th/13th century). After Jazdów was raided, a
new similar settlement was established on the site of a small fishing village
called Warszowa. This settlement Warszowa (at present Warsaw) a Płock prince
established (about 1300), Bolesław II Mazovian (from 1294 prince of entire
Masovia). In the beginning of the 14th century it became one of the seats of the
Dukes of Masovia, becoming the capital of Masovia in 1413. Upon the extinction
of the local ducal line, the duchy was reincorporated into the Polish Crown in
1526.
In 1529 Warsaw for the first time became the seat of the General Sejm,
permanent since 1569. In 1573 Warsaw gave its name to the Warsaw Confederation,
formally establishing religious freedom in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.
Due to its central location between the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth's
capitals of Kraków and Vilnius, Warsaw became the capital of the Commonwealth
and at the same time of the Polish Crown in 1596, when King Sigismund III Vasa
moved the court from Kraków.
Warsaw remained the capital of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth until 1795, when it was annexed by the Kingdom of Prussia to become the capital of the province of South Prussia. Liberated by Napoleon's army in 1807, Warsaw was made the capital of the newly created Duchy of Warsaw. Following the Congress of Vienna of 1815, Warsaw became the centre of the Congress Poland, a constitutional monarchy under a personal union with Imperial Russia.
Following the repeated violations of the Polish constitution by the Russians, the 1830 November Uprising broke out. However, the Polish-Russian war of 1831 ended in the uprising's defeat and in the curtailment of the Kingdom's autonomy.
On 27 February 1861 a Warsaw crowd protesting the Russian rule over Poland was
fired upon by the Russian troops.
Warsaw flourished in the late nineteenth century
under Mayor Sokrates Starynkiewicz (1875–92), a Russian-born general appointed by
Tsar Alexander III. Under Starynkiewicz Warsaw saw its first water and sewer
systems designed and built by the English engineer William Lindley and his son,
William Heerlein Lindley, as well as the expansion and modernization of trams, street
lighting and gas works.
Warsaw became the capital of the newly independent Poland in 1918. In the course
of the Polish-Bolshevik War of 1920, the huge Battle of Warsaw was fought on the
Eastern outskirts of the city in which the capital was successfully defended and
the Red Army defeated.
During “World War” II 85% of buildings in Warsaw were destroyed. During the Second
World War central Poland, including Warsaw, came under the rule of the General
Government, a Nazi colonial administration. All higher education institutions
were immediately closed and Warsaw's entire Jewish population — several hundred
thousand, some 30% of the city — herded into the Warsaw Ghetto. When the order
came to annihilate the Ghetto as part of Hitler's "final solution" on April 19,
1943, Jewish fighters launched the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. Despite being heavily
outgunned and outnumbered, the Ghetto held out for almost a month. When the
fighting ended, almost all survivors were massacred, only few managed to escape
or hide.
Historical buildings reconstructed after WW II, 2006By July 1944 the Red Army
was deep into Polish territory pursuing the Germans toward Warsaw. Knowing that
Stalin was hostile to the idea of an independent Poland, the Polish
government-in-exile based in London gave orders to the underground Home Army
(AK) to try to seize the control of Warsaw from the Nazis just before the Red
Army's arrival. Thus, on 1 August 1944, as the Soviet army was nearing the city
very fast, the Home Army and the civilian population started the Warsaw
Uprising. The armed struggle, planned to last 48 hours, went on for 63 days, and
eventually the Home Army fighters were forced to capitulate. They were
transported to the POW camps in Germany, while the entire civilian population
was expelled. Hitler, ignoring the agreed terms of the capitulation, ordered the
entire city to be razed to the ground, and the library and museum collections
taken to Germany or burned.
About 85% of the city had been destroyed, including the historic Old Town and the Royal Castle. After the war, large prefabricated housing projects were erected in Warsaw to address the housing shortage. The city resumed its role as the capital of Poland and the country's centre of political and economic life. Many of the historic streets, buildings, and
churches were restored to their original form. In 1980 Warsaw's historic Old Town was inscribed onto UNESCO's World Heritage list.
In 1995 the Warsaw Metro opened, and with the entry of Poland into the European
Union in 2004. Warsaw is home to over 30 major theatres spread throughout the city, including the National Theatre (founded in 1765) and the Grand Theatre in Warsaw
(established 1778).

It’s Rice culture

Palace of Culture and ScienceWarsaw also attracts many young and off-stream
directors and performers who add to the city's theatre culture. Their
productions may be viewed mostly in smaller theatres and Houses of Culture (Domy
Kultury), mostly outside Śródmieście (downtown Warsaw). Warsaw hosts the
International Theatrical Meetings.

Music and theatre

MusicThanks to numerous musical venues, including the Teatr Wielki, the Polish
National Opera, the Chamber Opera, the National Philharmonic Hall and the
National Theatre, as well as the Roma and Buffo music theatres and the Congress
Hall in the Palace of Culture and Science, Warsaw hosts many events and
festivals.

The events:
Are: the International Frederick Chopin Piano Competition, the International Contemporary Music Festival Warsaw Autumn, the Jazz Jamboree, Warsaw Summer Jazz Days, the International Stanisław Moniuszko Vocal Competition, the Mozart Festival, and the Festival of Old Music.

Museums and art galleries
There are many museums and art galleries in Warsaw, the most notable are:
National Museum - Muzeum Narodowe , Zachęta Art Gallery - Zachęta Narodowa Galeria Sztuki, Centre for Contemporary Art - Centrum Sztuki Współczesnej , Museum of the Polish Army - Muzeum Wojska Polskiego. Royal Castle - Zamek Królewski, Warsaw Uprising Museum - Muzeum Powstania Warszawskiego
Fryderyk Chopin Museum - Muzeum Fryderyka Chopina.

Warsaw’s tourist attractions

Warsaw Old Town quarter, carefully reconstructed after World War 2, each borough has something to offer.Old Town are the Royal Castle, King Sigismund's Column
Market Square, and the Barbican.
Further south is the so-called Royal Route, with many classicist palaces, the
Presidential Palace and the Warsaw University campus. Also the popular Nowy
Świat Street is worth mentioning.
Warsaw's oldest public park, the Ogród Saski, is located within 10 minutes' walk from the old town.
Warsaw's biggest public park and said to be the most beautiful is the Łazienki Park. It is also very old — established in the 17th century and given its current classical shape in late 18th century — is located further south, on the Royal Route, about 3 km from the Warsaw Old Town
The Powązki Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in Europe,[7] full of
sculptures, some of them by the most renowned Polish artists of the 19th and
20th centuries. Since it serves the religious communities of Warsaw, be it
Catholics, Jews, Muslims or Protestants, it is often called a necropolis.
Nearby is the Okopowa Street Jewish Cemetery, one of the largest Jewish
cemeteries in Europe.
To the north of the city centre is the site of the former Warsaw Ghetto.
The borough of Żoliborz is famous for its architecture from the 1920s and
1930s. Between Żoliborz and the Vistula River is the Warsaw Citadel, a
monument of 19th century military architecture.
Former royal residence of king Jan III Sobieski — Wilanów Palace is notable
for their baroque architecture and beautiful parks.
Notable examples of contemporary architecture include the Palace of Culture
and Science, a Soc-realist skyscraper located in the city centre, the Stadion
Dziesięciolecia which used to be the biggest open-air market in Europe and the
Plac Konstytucji with its monumental Social realism architecture. The central
part of the right-bank (east) Praga borough it is a place where very run-down
houses stand right next to modern apartment buildings and shopping malls.
Ulica Kubusia Puchatka, probably the only street in the world named after
Winnie-the-Pooh and located in the very centre of a metropolis.
The modern architecture in Warsaw is represented by:
Metropolitan Office Building at Plac Piłsudskiego (Pilsudski Square) by Sir
Norman Foster
Warsaw University Library (BUW) by Marek Budzyński and Zbigniew Badowski
with a garden on the roof and beautiful view on the Vistula River
Rondo 1 office building by SOM
Zlote Tarasy retail and business centre

Warsaw is one of Poland's most popular travel destinations. With its rich
history and striking sights, Warsaw has plenty of attractions to offer visitors.
Must-See Warsaw Sights -

Lazienki Palace
Lazienki Park and Palace are both beautiful and relaxing
sights to see. The palace, known as "The Palace on the Isle" is built on a lake
and is accessible by foot bridges. Wander the park or enter the palace depending
upon your mood and the weather.

Chopin Monument
Warsaw is the birthplace of the famous Polish composer,
Chopin. The Chopin Monument, located in Lazienki Park, is often used as a
meeting place for music lovers and a venue for concerts. The original version of
this monument is no longer in existence; its reproduction was created after
Nazis destroyed the 1926 monument.

Royal Castle
When taking a tour of the Royal Castle in Warsaw, be mindful
that this structure is a reproduction of the original, just like the Chopin
Monument. And, like the composer's monument, the original Royal Castle was
destroyed by Nazis during WWII. While the exterior has been recreated, the
interior of the Royal Castle is surprisingly authentic. Furniture that was saved
from destruction, or replacements from the same period, serve to illustrate the
uses of the castle's rooms.
The Royal Castle overlooks Castle Square in Warsaw. This
grand square is used for speeches, gatherings, and entertainment.
Warsaw also has other squares of note, like the Old Town Market Square and the
New Town Market Square. Warsaw's squares are great places to have a snack or a
drink and experience the city.

Zygmunt's Column
Zymunt's Column, erected to commemorate a 17th century Polish
king, is an original monument, though it did have to be repaired after the Nazi
invasion. Zygmunt's Column is located in Castle Square and marks the beginning
of Warsaw's Royal Route.

The Palace of Science and Culture
The Palace of Science and Culture was Stalin's gift to Poland.
Its monstrous form and looming silhouette are characteristic of the
architectural style favored by the Soviets. The Palace of Science and Culture is
a multi-purpose building that now rents commercial space to businesses.

Monument to the Heroes of the GhettoWarsaw Pact
A treaty was signed with East Germany on September 24, 1990 to enable it to leave the Warsaw Pact, and with the German reunification on October 3 it effectively became a part of NATO.

Barbican
The Warsaw Barbican was a defensive structure that was
initially built to replace one of the gates of the walled city of Warsaw. Like
many of Warsaw's buildings, the Barbican has been reconstructed, but this
doesn't make the structure any less impressive.

Wilanow Palace
The Wilanow Palace in Warsaw is now a museum that
showcases its many owners' eclectic style preferences and additions. The
architecture of the Wilanow Palace, portrait galleries, and other museum
exhibits make for an interesting afternoon. If you aren't into museum-going,
stroll the palace grounds.

National Library of Poland
The National Library of Poland, housed in a 17th century
building, holds some of Poland's most treasured documents, including some of
Chopin's compositions, important religious texts, ancient maps, and artists'
conceptions of important Polish architecture.

Other than sight seeing spots of Warsaw, we have to know the Warsaw pact.

Warsaw pact

Not to be confused with the Warsaw Convention, which is an agreement about airlines' financial liability and the Treaty of Warsaw (1970) between West
Germany and the People's Republic of Poland.
Officially named the Warsaw Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual
Assistance. The treaty was signed in Warsaw on May 14, 1955. People's Republic of
Presidential Palace in Warsaw, in 1955 known as Governor's Palace (Pałac
Namiestnikowski), where the Warsaw Pact was signed.Members of the Warsaw Pact
pledged to defend each other if one or more of the members were attacked. The
treaty also stated that relations among the signatories were based on mutual
non-interference in internal affairs and respect for national sovereignty and
independence.
In 1991, the Warsaw Pact broke up when most of the Communist governments fell,
changing to a democratically elected form as the Soviet Union dissolved.
Near the Palace of Science and Culture is the location of
the former Warsaw Ghetto. The sight of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, the Warsaw
Ghetto was destroyed in the 1940's and its inhabitants murdered or sent to
concentration camps. This memorial, as well as the nearby Umschlagplatz
Memorial, remember the victims of the Warsaw Ghetto as well as those who tried
to fight back against the Nazis' actions.

Hotels in Warsaw

1.Hotel Le Regina, City Centre, Warsaw
2.Warsaw: sleepEurope
3.Hotel AtosEurope
4.Hotel GromadaEurope
5.Hotel HarendaEurope
6.Hotel PraskiEurope
7.Warsaw: generalEurope
8.Hotel Le
9.Hotel AramisEurope
10.Hotel PowiśleEurope
11. Hotel Gromada hotel - international
12.Warsaw ApartmentsEurope
13.Sofitel VictoriaEurope
14.Capital ApartmentsEurope
15.Dom Przy Rynku
16.Le Royal Méridien Bristol
17.Friends GuesthouseEurope
18.Smolna Youth HostelEurope
19.Smolna Youth Hostel
20. Hotel Gromada
20.Nathan's Villa
21.Premiere Classe
22.Dom LiteraturyEurope
23.Oki Doki HostelEurope
24.Camping 123Europe
25.Dom GościnnyEurope
26.Hotel RialtoEurope
27.Hostel KanoniaEurope
28.Hotel PortosEurope
29.Karolkowa Youth
30.Biuro Podróży SyrenaEurope

VIENNA

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VIENNA
Whenever we spell the word “Vienna”, the beauty of the white Alps, warm summer and cold winter will come to our memory.
Being situated in easternmost extension of the Alps, Vienna has a unique climate and enjoyable weather. It is the capital city of Austria. Vienna and Danube are the two rivers on the both sides of Vienna. It is the largest city of Austria, and the 10th largest city of European Union.
One of the wonderful tourist destination of the world, Vienna is the house for many International Organisations of the United Nations and other. Particularly, OPEC and IAEA.
The Important Tourist Spots are:
Anchor Clock (Ankeruhr)
The Anchor Clock was built between 1911 and 1917 after the plans of the painter Franz von Matsch. It is situated on the oldest square of Vienna, represents Art Nouveau design.
The City Belvedere Palace
The two magnificient palaces on the Belvedere grounds lie in the middle of a splendid park. They were constructed for Prince Eugene of Savoy by J.L. von Hildebrandt, a famous Baroque architect.
The City Burgtheater (National Theatre)
The Burgtheater is situated in the first district. In 1741 Empress Maria Theresia handed an unused dance-house over to the theatre-company Sellier. Since then, this building was used as a theatre.

The City Danube Tower & Danube Island
To enjoy a magnificent view over Vienna, this is the right place. The Viennese affectionately call the tower "Concrete needle". It is 352 meters high and was built within 20 months.
The City Haas House
Haas House is one of the most exciting buildings in Vienna and the city's pride. Images of St. Stephen's Cathedral reflected by the straight glass facade of Haas House are a popular motif.
The City Hofburg
The Hofburg was orignially a medieval castle, but today only the castle chapel remembers of its medieval past. The Hofburg was extended to a magnificent residence when the Habsburg's power increased.
The City Karlskirche
Karlskirche is the biggest cathedral in Baroque style north of the Alps. Building commenced in 1715 following plans of famous Austrian Baroque architect Johann Fischer von Erlach.
The City Naschmarkt
There is quite a number of markets where you can buy fresh vegetable and asorted tidbits. But Naschmarkt is arguably more than that: it is a Viennese institution dating back to the 16th century.
The City Ring Boulevard
The Vienna Ring Boulevard is 4 kilometres long and circles the city centre. The construction of the Ring Boulevard was initiated by Emperor Franz Joseph I in December 1857.

The City Prater
The Prater is Vienna's most popular fun fair. Here one can enjoy a great view from the giant Ferris wheel, and one can do sports and relax in the area of forest land and fields.
The City Schönbrunn Palace
The Palace with its surrounding buildings and the huge park is one of the most significant cultural monuments in Austria. It was generally used as the summer residence of the Habsburg rulers.
The City Schönbrunn zoo
Schönbrunn Zoo is the world's oldest and only baroque zoo. The Schoenbrunn Zoo is situated in the south-eastern part of the Habsburgs' summer residence and was built in 1760.
The City Spanish Riding School
The Spanish Riding School is the oldest and last Riding School in the world where classic dressage is still practised in its purest form. This Institute was founded in 1572.
The City St. Stephen's Cathedral
St. Stephen's Cathedral is situated in the city centre, and for centuries it has been the heart of Vienna. It is one of the most famous Viennese sights and was built in 1147.
The City Vienna Opera House (Oper)
The Vienna Opera House is situated in the frist district of Vienna at the southern end of the Kärntnerstrasse. August von Sicardsburg and Eduard van der Nüll built the Court Opera House from 1861 to 1869.

And there are also more than 100 art museums, which together attract over eight million visitors per year. The most popular ones are Albertina, Belvedere, Leopold Museum in the Museums quartier.

Ukraine

2009-01-17T00:25:00.004-08:00

Ukraine

Ukraine, the former territory of Soviet Union, is perhaps one of the World famous destinations for medical tourism, particularly Dental tourism by its vast itineraries of facilities such as Spa, eye and plastic surgery, mud paths. Thousands of tourists from European Union and other countries of CIS throng coming to this traditional city.

The group Carpathian Mountains, which is suitable for skiing, hiking, fishing and hunting attracts millions of tourists to its fold. The vast coastlines of the Black Sea are a best place for all sorts of summer vacation merriments which includes fun - filled amusement and entertainment.

The Crimea is a popular vacation destination for tourists to swim on the Black Sea with its warm climate. Cruise tours by ship on Dnieper River from Kiev to the Black Sea coastline are still an enjoyable item of the tourists.

The vine yards all along Ukraine, ruins of ancient castles, historical parks, Orthodox and Catholic churches as well as a few mosques and synagogues are the pleasant things which never fade from our memory.

Furthermore, unique structures such as Saint Sophia Cathedral and broad boulevards exemplify the architecture of Polish and German. The first and foremost specialty of Ukraine is the mixture of different cultures, including Jewish, Armenian and Greek.

By these great things, Ukraine attracts more than 15 million tourists every year, primarily from Eastern Europe. It is ranged as the 14th most popular tourism destination in the world.

Location: Ukraine is a country that lies in Eastern Europe, at the northwest end of the Black Sea, with Russia to the east, Belarus to the north, Poland to the northwest, Slovakia and Hungary to the west, and Romania to the south west and south, with Moldova in between. Ukraine is the second-largest country in Europe and its capital city is Kiev.

To get in: The cheapest way to reach Ukraine by plane is through the Kyiv Boryspil International Airport which receives number of flights from the cities of Budapest, Frankfurt, Milan, Munich, Prague, London, Rome, Vienna and Warsaw running to and from Kiev. The International airways, such as Austrian, Czech Airlines, Lufthansa, Alitalia, Air France, British Airways, KLM and MALEV - Hungarian Airlines are rendering services to this city.

One can enter Ukraine by train from any land-bordering neighbor countries. The nearest town on the Polish side is Przemyśl, and it's to find by following route # 4 (which passes through Przemyśl), also known as the E40 in European terms. There are some ferries from Istanbul, Georgia, Varna (Bulgaria) to Odessa or to Crimea.

Attractions of Ukraine:

St. Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery: It was damaged by the wars and occupations but still looks new by the renovation of the rulers who kept this historical site well groomed. This monastery which is situated in Kiev, Ukraine is located on the Western side of the Dnieper River. Originally built in the middle Ages by Sviatopolk II Iziaslavych, the monastery comprises the Cathedral itself, the refectory of St. John the Divine, the Economic Gates and the monastery's bell tower.

Alupka: Alupka, a resort city lying in Crimea, Ukraine is situated at a distance of17 km from the west of Yalta. It is famous for the Vorontsov's Palace, designed by English architect Edward Blore in an extravagant mixture of Scottish baronial and Neo-Moorish styles and built in 1828–1846 for Prince Mikhail Semyonovich Vorontsov.

Livadia Palace: The former summer resort of the last Tsar King, Nicholas II, and his family in Livadiya, Crimea in southern Ukraine houses a museum. Built on white Crimean granite based in the Neo-Renaissance style. It contains 116 rooms, such as Pompeian vestibule, an English billiard-room, a Neo-baroque dining room, and a Jacob-style study of maple wood and so on.

Kiev Pechersk Lavra: The Kiev Monastery of the Caves is a historic Orthodox Christian monastery in Kiev since 1015. The Lavra has been a pre - eminent center of the Eastern Orthodox Christianity in Eastern Europe and it is inscribed as a “UNESCO” World Heritage Site.

Certain Other sites of importance: 'Mother' Motherland statue in Kyiv Ukraine stands in the centre of the Museum of the Great Patriotic War and is regarded as one of the wonders of the world. The security related gigantic Khotyn Fortress in the town of Khotyn is one of the worthy things of the tourist’s interest in Ukraine.

The Kamianets-Podilskyi Castle in Kamianets-Podilskyi, Potemkin Stairs in Odessa, which extends for 142 meters is one of the great modern day magical types of architecture. The stairs have been so well designed that they create an optical illusion. A person looking down the stairs sees only the landings, and the steps are invisible, but a person looking up sees only the steps. Is it not something strange?

The Freedom Square in Kharkiv which is the third largest city-centre square in Europe and The Swallow's Nest, one of the Neo-Gothic châteaux fantastiques near Yalta, are some of the architectural marvels portraying the skills of Ukraine’s forefathers who spent many years to fulfill and carry out these structures.

Recent attractions:

Recently Ukraine has secured a good name in the areas of Medical tourism. The people from European union and near by countries flock to this nation to get rid of their dental problems and get “beauty” treatments from the facilities of Spa, Plastic and Eye correcting treatments of Ukraine.

The reason for this outbreak is obviously the less medical expense. When comparing to the eastern and other Russian clinics, Ukraine clinics levies low fees for the treatment.

The other attractions are:

Chernobyl, Ukraine is infamous for the nuclear meltdown on April 26, 1986. On April 26, 1986, the No. 4 nuclear reactor at the Chernobyl Nuclear Station exploded during a test, Iodine and other dangerous radioactive elements released from the explosion rose into the air and spread across millions of square miles, polluting every European nation. Since then this site has been among one of the attractions of Ukraine.

Ukrainian cuisine is quite tasty and mouth watering. Traditional local food includes "salo" (salted lard) and soups like "borshch" made of red beets or "solianka" which is a delicious vegetable soup. Another special item is horilka (the local name for vodka) with pepper. Other kinds of vodka are also quite popular - linden (tilia), honey, birch, wheat, etc.,

Visa: Tourist visas are no longer required for citizens of the European Union, United States, Canada, Japan, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Vatican City, Monaco, Iceland, Norway, San Marino, Mongolia, Serbia, Montenegro and the countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States (except Turkmenistan). This applies only for the tourist travel lasting less than 90 days.

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Tripoli, Lebanon

2009-01-17T00:25:00.003-08:00

Tripoli, Lebanon

Tripoli's famous sweets and traditional olive oil based soap, water pipes and brass work. Tripoli means three cities. Tripoli is situated North West of Lebanon, on the Mediterranean Sea. It is famous for Citrus fruits, cotton. It has an oil refinery and is the terminus of an oil pipeline from Iraq. The city is located 85 km north of the capital Beirut and can be described as the Eastern-most port of Lebanon. Modern Tripoli, which has a population of about 5,00,000, is divided into two parts. One is El-Mina and the other one is town of Tripoli proper. The medieval city at the foot of the Crusader Castle, where most of the historical sites are located.

History: It has a history from 700 B.C., The city flourished under the Seleucid and Roman empires. In A.D. 638 it was captured by the Arabs. After a long siege it was taken (1109) by the Crusaders; during the siege its great library was destroyed. Tripoli was sacked by the sultan of Egypt in 1289 and was later rebuilt.
The British conquered it from the Turks in 1918, and it became part of Lebanon in
1920. The old part of the city, around the harbour, contains the remains of fortified
towers and walls. Tripoli was the scene of heavy fighting during the 1975–76 civil war. It became the headquarters for the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) after the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982. In the wake of rebellion against the PLO in 1983, large numbers of Palestinian rebels fled the city. Syrian military forces began to move into the city in the mid-1980s; like Beirut, it became a Lebanese city marked by battles for hegemony.

Getting there: There daily coach services, running to and from Beirut and Byblos. Minibuses from Tripoli to Beirut and service taxis make frequent departures to Beirut from just outside the clock tower. Service taxis from Tripoli to Bcharré leave from Al-Koura Square. When there's no snow or ice and the mountain road is open, it's possible to get a taxi from Bcharré to Baalbek.

Mumluk: In the Mamluk city, there are 195 monuments remain. The monuments include the whole range of religious, civil, and military architecture such as mosques,
madrassahs, khans, and the Saint-Gilles Citadel. Forty-five buildings in the city, many dating from the 14th century, have been registered as historical sites. Twelve Mosque from the Mamluk and Ottoman times have survived along with an equal number of Madrassas or theological schools.
Secular buildings include the hammam or bathing-house, which followed the classical
pattern of Roman- Byzantine baths and the Khan or caravansary. The Souks, together with the Khan, form an agglomeration of various trades where tailors, jewelers, perfumeries, tanners and soap-makers work in surroundings that have changed very little over the last 500 years. Tripoli is classified 2nd in the world with its fascinating.
In the offshore is a string of small islands. The largest, known as the island of Palm
trees or Rabbit’s island, is now a nature reserve for green turtles and rare birds.
This island also holds Roman and Crusader remains. South of Tripoli, the village of Qalmoun is known for its brass industry. The roadside is lined with small workshops and showrooms where brass bowls, candle sticks and other objects are hammered out in the old tradition.

El-Mina: El-Mina is an ancient city situated at the seashore of North Lebanon. El-Mina, formerly called as "Al-Askaleh" is the city of Lebanon's second largest city, Tripoli, Lebanon. El-Mina is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, and being a hub for merchants and cargo ships on the trade circuit between North Africa and Europe.

El-Mina is the city with the largest number of islands surrounding it, along the 'Bilad El-Cham' coastline. It has seven islands, the closest, the Abdul Wahab Island can be visited by crossing a bridge over the sea. The farthest island, 'Ramkin', is 10 kms away from the coast, and has a lighthouse. Four of the islands have been declared as natural reservations to help breed fish, and preserve their natural habitat. The city's seashore extends 15 kms, and it's famous seashore sidewalk, the "corniche", is a popular site frequented by people from all around Lebanon, who come to enjoy the fresh air.

Islands:
Al-Bakkar island is the closest island to the coastline, and can be reached by crossing a bridge.
Al-Nakhl Island is the second largest island and is declared a national fish preservation.
Al-Balan Island is another Largest island
Al-Ramkin : El-Mina's farthest island, and has a lighthouse. The island was frequented by slain Prime Minister Rashid Karam.

Landmarks:

Bourj Al-Sibaa: The only remaining tower of the seven protective towers
that were built around the city during the Mamlouk period to protect the city from
foreign invasions.

The Corniche : The city's most visited site of the city. A long sidewalk along the coast
of the city , approximately 4.5 kms long, where people come for a walk, sports and
leisure activities such as fishing and sailing. A large number of cafes along the
corniche is an attractive site for tourists and locals alike.

Khan Al-Tamasili : An old Ottoman style building that was an old market place during
the Ottoman era.

Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles: The city is dominated by the vast Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles. In AD 1102 Raymond de Saint-Gilles occupied the hill which overlooks the valley, the town and the coast. He decided to transform this position, which he called Mont Pelerin (Mt Pilgrim), into a fortress. The original castle was burnt down in 1289, and again on several subsequent occasions.

Inside the castle is a muddle of architectural styles and features, reflecting the different occupants and stormy history of the city. The best exterior view of the castle can be had from the east bank of the Nahr Abu Ali.

Souq al-Haraj
At the northern end of the old town is Souq al-Haraj, which is thought to have been built on the site of a Crusader church. Its high, vaulted ceiling is supported by 14 granite columns, two at the centre and 12 ranged around the sides, which are probably a leftover from the earlier structure. Today the souq specialises in mats, pillows and mattresses.

Khan al-Aaskar: The Ottoman Tughra on the eastern gate of the Khan. Similar to
Khan el-Saboun, Khan el-Aaskar, or Soldiers' Caravansaray, consists of two main
buildings joined by a vaulted passage. It is situated at the Zahriyeh district and was probably erected in the late 13th or early 14th century for Mameluke troops. At that time it was known as Khan el-Hareer (Caravansaray of Silk) or Khan el-Asra (Caravansaray of the Hostages). The two courtyards making the khan occupies 5200 m2 and are surrounded by two storeys of rooms behind arcaded corridors. It is at present used as a shoping center.

Khan el-Khayyateen: The Khayyateen Caravansaray after the renovation. Khan el-Khayyateen in the late 1960s. One of the oldest in Tripoli, Khan el-Khayyateen or Tailors' Caravansaray, dates to the first half of the 14th century. It was probably built on the remains of a Byzantine and Crusader structure in the center of the ancient commercial suburb which controlled passage over the Abu Ali River. This is why, this Khan has a different plan than the others in the city. The restored structure
consists of a long passageway with tall arches on each side and ten transverse arches.

Khan al-Misriyyin: Khan al-Misryyin (Caravansaray of the Egyptians) was probably
built in the first half of the 14th century following the orders of the Memluk
Sultan El-Nasser Mohammad Ben Kalawoon. The traditional arcaded two-storey
khan has an open courtyard with a fountain in the center. The khan is
present at the Hadeed district and occupies a surface area of 272 m2. It
is at present used as a shoping area.

Khan el-Saboun:Khan el-Saboun (Soap Warehouse), built in the second half of the 16th century or the beginning of the 17th century, was originally a caravansaray for European merchants. During the first half of the 20th century, it was converted into a warehouse. A large, rectangular structure, it has two stories of arcaded corridors around a courtyard.

Tamathili Khan: Khan el-Tamathili was built during the Memluke Era sometime
between 1316 and 1341 C.E. It was used at the beginning as a hotel to host the
negotiator ad visitors of the city. The kan is of two storeys. The first storey is composed of 30 rooms with arches in the ceilings of every room; the decorations of the four corners of this storey are in a very good condition. The second storey is made up of 44 rooms.

The two floors exhibit a total of 34 arches. The entrance gate of the khan is made of an arch with stones of alternate black and white colors.. The gate of the khan is huge and is covered with plates of iron fixed by huge nails. The hall of the khan has a water pool at the center. A statue, placed at the center of the pool, was stolen during the war-time in the 1980s.

Hotels:
1.Chateau des Oliviers Asia Lebanon Tripoli.
2.Haddad Pension Asia Lebanon Tripoli.
3.Hotel Hayek Asia Lebanon Tripoli.
4.Quality Inn Asia Lebanon Tripoli.
5.Palace Hotel Asia Lebanon Tripoli.
6.Hotel Koura Asia Lebanon Tripoli.
7.Hotel Via Mina Asia Lebanon Tripoli.
8.El-Tell Hotel Asia Lebanon Tripoli.

General tips for the tourists:

When arriving at Beirut airport, 3 month visas can get for US$35, but on
going through immigration, the guard will reduce your visa to only one month. You must then renew the visa, free of charge, every month during your stay for up to three months.

Caution: Tripoli remains most dangerous and is not safe for tourists. Those who are going there on business are strongly advised to consult their own government first, and have an armed guard with them. Otherwise don't even think of traveling here. It is unsafe to travel to Tripoli at this time because of the recent turmoil in the Naher al-Bared refugee camp.

Toronto

2009-01-17T00:25:00.001-08:00

Toronto

The pristine white sand beaches, beautiful islands full of recreations, free - flowing rivers, colorful lakes, neatly structured streets full of jewels of architecture, car free roads are the unique symbols of Toronto, one of the biggest cities of Canada.

The spectacular Niagara Falls, all along picnic spots for all sorts of people, the gigantic ferries moving around the silent rivers, wonderful facilities for all amusements of beach activities, city and night life are scattered in Toronto for the enjoyment of the tourists.

Toronto having people of multi ethnicity from all the continents and countries strikes different and adds multi color to this big and beautiful city. By this peculiarity, the UN rated Toronto as "the most multicultural city in the world". Until today it maintains the rating of the United Nations.

Location: Toronto is both the capital and the largest city of Ontario, Canada, in the southern part of the province on Lake Ontario. Originally being a French trading port, it was founded as York by the British in 1793 and renamed as Toronto in 1834. Toronto is not only an important Great Lakes port but also an industrial center. The entire area inclusive of Toronto is known as the "Golden Horseshoe" and has a population of over 8 million people.

Climate: Toronto's climate is characterized by fairly cold and icy winters, some times severe storms may beat the city. This city experiences very hot and humid summers with an average high of 80°F (27°C) during the daytime in July, thunderstorms are likely in that season. Late spring and early fall are generally considered to be the most pleasant times to visit this vibrant city.

To Get into Toronto: Pearson International Airport is about 45 minutes by car from the downtown area; all international carriers are rendering services to this beautiful city's landmark. Toronto/Button Ville Municipal Airport in Markham is another important airport which provides all the general aviation facilities to the major cities of Canada and some US destinations. There are plenty of roads and rail links to Toronto from other Canadian cities and far flung regions of the US. Toronto is served by a number of 400-series highways. The Highway 401 bisects the city north of the city centre, connecting with London and Windsor to the west and Montreal to the east.

Activities in Toronto: The unleashed appetite of all sorts of tourists is fulfilled here by the options wide and varied available. Walking is the best preferred option to get around Toronto and to enjoy the beauty of the city to the fullest extent.

The Waterloo Region to the west, Muskoka to the north and The Kawarthas to the northeast of Toronto, are the places for fishing, hunting and camping all along the lakes and rivers of these regions. There are also several golden sand beaches along the clean fresh waters of the Great Lakes which include Wasaga Beach, Sauble Beach, Sandbanks, Grand Bend, Long Point, and Turkey Point and all these spots are ideal for hot summer days and all sorts of beach activities such as volleyball, bike/rollerblading paths and a boardwalk along the water.

The majority of the night life in and around Toronto Islands and its beaches is centered on Club land, Queen Street West. The Lakefront and Toronto Island offers biking and walking trails. Edwards Gardens and the Toronto Botanical Gardens in the neighborhood of North York might just be the place to start exploring this natural environment by walking.

Theater: Toronto has a great theater scene for every taste and Big theaters on King Street and Yonge Street screen big costly shows.

Canada's Wonderland is a big theme park located in Vaughan, 30 kms north of downtown Toronto. It is considered one of North America's premier amusement parks, with more than 200 attractions. The park is usually open from May to October.

Shopping: Toronto has ample opportunities for shopping. The Yonge Street is locally regarded as the longest street in the world. Yorkville is the high-end shopping district of Toronto. Eaton Centre is the city's fashion district along Queen Street West.
Kensington Market, around College and Spadina, Pacific Mall at Steeles and Kennedy in Markham, Yorkdale Shopping Centre are the place where shopping experince is very pleasant to the lovers of shopping. Chinatown in Dundas and Spadina is the place where we can get original Chinese and Vietnamese products. There is a special place for the sports, especially for Hockey it is Toronto Hockey Repair and Goalie Heaven. Here we can get world-renowned hockey equipments.

Places of attractions:

Niagara Falls: Being one of the natural wonders of the world, the Niagara Falls on the Canadian side or otherwise called Horse Shoe Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations in North America. This particular spot and its surroundings are considered the wonderful honeymoon destination and even more, it offers casino as well as land and boat tours around the falls.

Royal Ontario Museum: Royal Ontario Museum is the largest art gallery of Canada and also one of the best museums in North America. Canadian paintings, World's largest collection of Henry Moore sculptures are all the special items that adorn this great museum.

Bata Shoe Museum: The Bata Shoe Museum, in downtown Toronto, Canada, has the collections of shoes around the world and exhibits. This museum has in itself an interesting event. Bata Shoe Museum originated with Mrs. Sonja Bata. As she traveled the world on business with her husband, Mr. Thomas J. Bata of the Bata Shoe Company, she gradually built up a collection of traditional footwear from the areas she was visiting. In 1979 the Bata family established the Bata Shoe Museum Foundation to operate an international centre for footwear research and house the collection. This shoe museum welcomes visitors from all over the world for the cause of foot and shoes and to fit and use!

CN Tower: The tallest free standing structure in North America is the CN Tower. Glass elevator takes us to the top. Simply incredible is the view there and there is a glass floor, which for some is very scary to walk on. There is also a revolving restaurant which offers spectacular view of the Sun when it is about to bud farewell for the day those watching it set over the city.

Casa Loma: Canada's Majestic Castle Casa Loma exemplifies the European elegance and splendor of its architecture. The former home of Canadian financier Sir Henry Pellatt, Canada's foremost castle, is complete with decorated suites, secret passages, an 800-foot tunnel, towers, stables, and beautiful 5-acre estate gardens.

Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art: This museum is fully dedicated to the art of ceramics lying across from the Royal Ontario Museum and it has extraordinary collections of the past.

Black Creek Pioneer Village: Located just west of York University and southeast of the Jane and Steeles intersection, it overlooks Black Creek, a tributary of the Humber River. The village is a recreation of life in 19th century Ontario and consists of over forty historic 19th century buildings, decorated in the style of the 1860s with periodical furnishings and actors portraying villagers.

Ontario Place and Toronto Zoo are the surest places for the kids to enjoy very much by the facilities available here for all sorts of amusements and the IMOX theatre in Ontario place is special to the elders as much as to the youngsters.

The other places:

Toronto is fully packed with many parks and historic buildings, which never, say "No" to the tourists. Toronto is regarded as a city with many sports – related activities. The Toronto city hall, the Sky dome, a baseball stadium for the Toronto Blue Jays, the Maple Leafs (National Hockey League), Raptors (National Basketball Association), and Argonauts (Canadian Football League) are the places fully dedicated to the sports - related activities.

To get around: To enjoy the beauty of Toronto, the simple way is walking. However, Taxis are also one of the other options. But parking is often hard to find and expensive too as traffic along certain streets can make vehicle, travel slower than mass transit. There are abundant bus and car facilities in Toronto. Ferries and boats can also can be used either.

Cuisine: As a multicultural city, Toronto boasts authentic ethnic Cuisine like no other city in North America. We can taste different kinds of dishes from all countries and continents. It is easy to eat out in Toronto and have a superb meal at cheap price.

TOURIST SPOTS OF TOKYO

2009-01-17T00:24:00.001-08:00

TOURIST SPOTS OF TOKYO

One of the leading business and shopping areas of Japan with modern buildings and high-end shops.

Many different Trains depart from the huge terminal station of Tokyo. In the neighborhood,there are business streets and central government buildings as well as the shopping areas.This is the center of Tokyo.
To Get there

from Narita Airport JR Narita Express →Tokyo Station
time required : about 54 minutes fare : 2,940 yen (one way)
●from Narita Airport Rapid Airport Narita →Tokyo Station
time required : 1 hour 28 minutes fare : 1,280 yen (one way)

Tokyo Station

Inside Tokyo station, built with red bricks, is a large commercial area with event halls, shopping area, coffee shops and restaurants.
Access
•JR Bullet Train-Tokaido Line, Yamanote Line, Chuo Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, Sobu Line, Yokosuka Line, Narita Express, the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Keiyo Line are available at Tokyo Station.
•10-minute walk from Otemachi sta. on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line.

Maru Building

Newly renovated Maru Building houses businesses, shops, restaurants and event facilities. It is directly connected with Tokyo station and other train stations.
Access
•Connected with JR Tokyo station, Subway Tokyo station, Otemachi station, Nijubashimae station.
• * 1-minute walk from Marunouchi South Exit.
* Connected with Marunouchi undergrand Central Exit.
* Connected with Tokyo Sta. on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line
* 2-minute walk from Nijumashi-mae sta. on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line.
* 3-minute walk from D-1 Exit of Otemachi Sta. on the Toei subway Mita Line.
* 4-minute walk from No. 7 Exit of Tokyo sta. on the JR Keiyo Line.
* 5-minute walk from A5 Exit of Otemachi sta. on the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line
* 8-minute walk from A3 Exit of Yurakucho sta. on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line
* 9-minute walk from Forum Exit of Yurakucho sta. on the JR.
Marunouchi

Formerly thought of as an office area, this area has changed to a tasteful street with various kinds of bran-name shops.
Access
•Short walk from Marunouchi Central Exit and Marunouchi South Exit of Tokyo sta.
Tokyo International Forum

It is an event hall where you will find arts and entertainment in addition to convention and exhibition.
Access
•1-minute walk from Yurakucho sta. on the JR
•5-minutes walk from Tokyo sta. on the JR
•5-minutes walk from Ginza sta. and Hibiya sta. on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line
•5-minute walk from Nijubashimae sta. or 7-minute walk from Hibiya sta. on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line
•7-minute walk from Kyobashi sta. on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line
•7-minute walk from Hibiya sta. on the Toei subway Mita Line.
Kokyo Galen

Also called Imperial Plaza, this garden is well-known to the people of Tokyo.
Access
•About 5-minute walk from Nijubashimae sta. on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line
•About 5-minute walk from Sakuradamon sta. on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line.
•About 10-minute walk from Tokyo sta. or 8-minute walk from Yurakucho sta. on the JR.
Higashi Gyoen

A National historic park that keeps the remains of Edojo (Edo Castle). It is open to the public.
Access
•From the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line Takebashi, about 2 minutes' walk, from each subway Otemachi, about 7 minutes' walk
Hibiya Koen (Park)

The first western-style park in Japan, which opened its door to the public in 1903. The large fountain by Hibiya-Mon is a symbol of this park.
Access
•8-minute walk from Yurakucho sta. on the JR
2-minute walk from Kasumigaseki sta. on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and Chiyoda Line
2-minute walk from Hibiya sta. on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line.
National Diet Building

A grand, chalk-colored building southwest of the Imperial Palace. It was built in 1936. In front of the fa_ade, there are statues of three great statesmen, Ito Hirobumi, Ookuma Shigenobu and Itagaki Taisuke.
Access
•2-minute walk from Kokkaigijidomae sta. on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and Chiyoda Line.
•3-minute walk from Nagatacho sta. on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line.
Ginja

Elegant and stylish city where a retro-modern atmosphere still lingers in the air.
Lined up with old deparyment stores full of history and tradition as prestigious boutiques, Ginza is a flamboyant district for sophisticated adults.
ACCESS
Chuo-Dori

It is the main street in Ginza and also called Ginza street. Lining along the street are famous department stores, apparel stores and specialty stores. This street turns into a pedestrian only street on weekends.
Access
•5-minutes walk from Ginza station of the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Marunouchi Line, or Hibiya Line.
Namiki-Dori

A street with world-class European brand stores, galleries and historic stores. It is also known as "Brand Street".
Access
•The second street of Sotobori Street stretching toward Chuo Street.
Kabukiza Theater

A pure Japanese building in absolutely gorgeous Momoyama style. The inside is as impressive as the outside.
Access
•1-minute walk from Ginza sta. on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, or from Higashi-Ginza sta. on the Toei Subway Asakusa Line or from Ginzaguchi Exit of Yurakucho sta. on the JR and go straight along Harumi-Dori, a little further from Ginza Mitsukoshi. (about 8-minute walk)
Yurakucho Marion

Hankyu Department Store, Seibu Department Store and movie theaters.
Access
•Short walk from Ginzaguchi of Yurakucho sta. on the JR and Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line, or A0 Exit of Ginza sta. on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Ginza Line and Hibiya Line.
Takarazuka Theater

The theater is in Tokyo Takarazuka building. You can enjoy the same shows here as are shown in the Grand Theater in Takarazuka.
Access
•Get off at Hibiya sta. on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line, Hibiya line and Toei subway Mita line.
•5-minute walk from Hibiyaguchi sta. of Yurakucho sta. on the JR and it is located in front of the Imperial Hotel.
•It is possible to walk up to A13 Exit of Hibiya on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line and Hibiya line via Hibiya sta. of Toei subway Mita line and Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line from Yurakucho sta. on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho line.
Theater Creation

This theater opened on November 7th, 2007. (Old Geijutsuza theater)
Access
•2-minute walk from A13 exit of Hibiya sta. on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya line, Chiyoda line and Toei subway Mita line.
•7-minute walk from JR Yurakucho sta to Hibiya park. (Next to Tokyo Takarazuka Theater)
Nissei Theater

Musicals and plays are performed by Gekidan-Shiki (Shiki Theatre Company), Toho and Shochiku.
Access
•1-minute walk from A13 exit of Hibiya sta. on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya line, Chiyoda line and Toei subway Mita line.
•10-minute walk from Yurakucho sta. on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho line and Ginza sta. on the Maunouchi line.
•10-minute walk from Hibiyaguchi exit of Yurakucho sta. on the JR. (Next to Tokyo Takarazuka Theater)
Antique Mall Ginza

About 250 shops are available. The biggest antiques shopping mall in Japan.
Access
•About 2-minute walk from No. 10 exit of Ginza 1-chome sta. on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho line.
•About 5-minute walk from Ginza sta. on the Tokyo Metro Ginza line, Marunouchi line and Hibiya line.
•3-minute walk from A3/A4 exits of Takaramachi sta. on the Toei subway Asakusa line.
•About 7-minute walk from Kyobashi-guchi of Yurakucho on the JR.
•About 9-minute walk from Yaesuguchi of Tokyo sta. on the JR. Along Showa street.
•3-minute walk from #2 exit of Kyobashi sta. on the Tokyo Metro Ginza line.
Tsukiji Market

It has developed in to a vast food market that serves all of Tokyo, surrounded by several shopping streets like Ameya Yokocho.
Access
•Take the Toei bus of 都03,都04,都05, from Tokyo sta. and get off at Tsukiji stop.
•10-minute walk from Tsukiji sta. on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya line.
•1-minute walk from Tsukijishijo sta. on the Toei subway O-edo line.
Tsukishima Monja Street

Tsukishima-Nishinakadori Street. About 60 monjayaki (thinner type of okonomiyaki pancake) restaurants are available within 500m street.
Access
•Get off at Tsukishima sta. on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho line or Toei subway O-edo line.*Information desk is located at #7 exit of Tsukishima sta.

The retrospecive streets relate to the time when Tokyo was once called Edo
Time has stopped here since the Edo Period, Which is reflected by the numerous stores in Asakusa.Take a walk and you can step back in time.

ACCESS

One of the leading business and shopping areas of Japan with modern buildings and high-end shops.
Many different Trains depart from the huge terminal station of Tokyo. In the neighborhood,there are business streets and central government buildings as well as the shopping areas.This is the center of Tokyo.
To Get there

from Narita Airport JR Narita Express →Tokyo Station
time required : about 54 minutes fare : 2,940 yen (one way)
●from Narita Airport Rapid Airport Narita →Tokyo Station
time required : 1 hour 28 minutes fare : 1,280 yen (one way)

Tokyo Station

Inside Tokyo station, built with red bricks, is a large commercial area with event halls, shopping area, coffee shops and restaurants.
Access
•JR Bullet Train-Tokaido Line, Yamanote Line, Chuo Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, Sobu Line, Yokosuka Line, Narita Express, the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Keiyo Line are available at Tokyo Station.
•10-minute walk from Otemachi sta. on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line.

Maru Building

Newly renovated Maru Building houses businesses, shops, restaurants and event facilities. It is directly connected with Tokyo station and other train stations.
Access
•Connected with JR Tokyo station, Subway Tokyo station, Otemachi station, Nijubashimae station.
• * 1-minute walk from Marunouchi South Exit.
* Connected with Marunouchi undergrand Central Exit.
* Connected with Tokyo Sta. on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line
* 2-minute walk from Nijumashi-mae sta. on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line.
* 3-minute walk from D-1 Exit of Otemachi Sta. on the Toei subway Mita Line.
* 4-minute walk from No. 7 Exit of Tokyo sta. on the JR Keiyo Line.
* 5-minute walk from A5 Exit of Otemachi sta. on the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line
* 8-minute walk from A3 Exit of Yurakucho sta. on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line
* 9-minute walk from Forum Exit of Yurakucho sta. on the JR.
Marunouchi

Formerly thought of as an office area, this area has changed to a tasteful street with various kinds of bran-name shops.
Access
•Short walk from Marunouchi Central Exit and Marunouchi South Exit of Tokyo sta.
Tokyo International Forum

It is an event hall where you will find arts and entertainment in addition to convention and exhibition.
Access
•1-minute walk from Yurakucho sta. on the JR
•5-minutes walk from Tokyo sta. on the JR
•5-minutes walk from Ginza sta. and Hibiya sta. on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line
•5-minute walk from Nijubashimae sta. or 7-minute walk from Hibiya sta. on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line
•7-minute walk from Kyobashi sta. on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line
•7-minute walk from Hibiya sta. on the Toei subway Mita Line.
Kokyo Galen

Also called Imperial Plaza, this garden is well-known to the people of Tokyo.
Access
•About 5-minute walk from Nijubashimae sta. on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line
•About 5-minute walk from Sakuradamon sta. on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line.
•About 10-minute walk from Tokyo sta. or 8-minute walk from Yurakucho sta. on the JR.
Higashi Gyoen

A National historic park that keeps the remains of Edojo (Edo Castle). It is open to the public.
Access
•From the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line Takebashi, about 2 minutes' walk, from each subway Otemachi, about 7 minutes' walk
Hibiya Koen (Park)

The first western-style park in Japan, which opened its door to the public in 1903. The large fountain by Hibiya-Mon is a symbol of this park.
Access
•8-minute walk from Yurakucho sta. on the JR
2-minute walk from Kasumigaseki sta. on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and Chiyoda Line
2-minute walk from Hibiya sta. on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line.
National Diet Building

A grand, chalk-colored building southwest of the Imperial Palace. It was built in 1936. In front of the fa_ade, there are statues of three great statesmen, Ito Hirobumi, Ookuma Shigenobu and Itagaki Taisuke.
Access
•2-minute walk from Kokkaigijidomae sta. on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and Chiyoda Line.
•3-minute walk from Nagatacho sta. on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line.
Ginja

Elegant and stylish city where a retro-modern atmosphere still lingers in the air.
Lined up with old deparyment stores full of history and tradition as prestigious boutiques, Ginza is a flamboyant district for sophisticated adults.
ACCESS
Chuo-Dori

It is the main street in Ginza and also called Ginza street. Lining along the street are famous department stores, apparel stores and specialty stores. This street turns into a pedestrian only street on weekends.
Access
•5-minutes walk from Ginza station of the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Marunouchi Line, or Hibiya Line.
Namiki-Dori

A street with world-class European brand stores, galleries and historic stores. It is also known as "Brand Street".
Access
•The second street of Sotobori Street stretching toward Chuo Street.
Kabukiza Theater

A pure Japanese building in absolutely gorgeous Momoyama style. The inside is as impressive as the outside.
Access
•1-minute walk from Ginza sta. on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, or from Higashi-Ginza sta. on the Toei Subway Asakusa Line or from Ginzaguchi Exit of Yurakucho sta. on the JR and go straight along Harumi-Dori, a little further from Ginza Mitsukoshi. (about 8-minute walk)
Yurakucho Marion

Hankyu Department Store, Seibu Department Store and movie theaters.
Access
•Short walk from Ginzaguchi of Yurakucho sta. on the JR and Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line, or A0 Exit of Ginza sta. on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Ginza Line and Hibiya Line.
Takarazuka Theater

The theater is in Tokyo Takarazuka building. You can enjoy the same shows here as are shown in the Grand Theater in Takarazuka.
Access
•Get off at Hibiya sta. on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line, Hibiya line and Toei subway Mita line.
•5-minute walk from Hibiyaguchi sta. of Yurakucho sta. on the JR and it is located in front of the Imperial Hotel.
•It is possible to walk up to A13 Exit of Hibiya on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line and Hibiya line via Hibiya sta. of Toei subway Mita line and Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line from Yurakucho sta. on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho line.
Theater Creation

This theater opened on November 7th, 2007. (Old Geijutsuza theater)
Access
•2-minute walk from A13 exit of Hibiya sta. on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya line, Chiyoda line and Toei subway Mita line.
•7-minute walk from JR Yurakucho sta to Hibiya park. (Next to Tokyo Takarazuka Theater)
Nissei Theater

Musicals and plays are performed by Gekidan-Shiki (Shiki Theatre Company), Toho and Shochiku.
Access
•1-minute walk from A13 exit of Hibiya sta. on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya line, Chiyoda line and Toei subway Mita line.
•10-minute walk from Yurakucho sta. on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho line and Ginza sta. on the Maunouchi line.
•10-minute walk from Hibiyaguchi exit of Yurakucho sta. on the JR. (Next to Tokyo Takarazuka Theater)
Antique Mall Ginza

About 250 shops are available. The biggest antiques shopping mall in Japan.
Access
•About 2-minute walk from No. 10 exit of Ginza 1-chome sta. on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho line.
•About 5-minute walk from Ginza sta. on the Tokyo Metro Ginza line, Marunouchi line and Hibiya line.
•3-minute walk from A3/A4 exits of Takaramachi sta. on the Toei subway Asakusa line.
•About 7-minute walk from Kyobashi-guchi of Yurakucho on the JR.
•About 9-minute walk from Yaesuguchi of Tokyo sta. on the JR. Along Showa street.
•3-minute walk from #2 exit of Kyobashi sta. on the Tokyo Metro Ginza line.
Tsukiji Market

It has developed in to a vast food market that serves all of Tokyo, surrounded by several shopping streets like Ameya Yokocho.
Access
•Take the Toei bus of 都03,都04,都05, from Tokyo sta. and get off at Tsukiji stop.
•10-minute walk from Tsukiji sta. on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya line.
•1-minute walk from Tsukijishijo sta. on the Toei subway O-edo line.
Tsukishima Monja Street

Tsukishima-Nishinakadori Street. About 60 monjayaki (thinner type of okonomiyaki pancake) restaurants are available within 500m street.
Access
•Get off at Tsukishima sta. on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho line or Toei subway O-edo line.*Information desk is located at #7 exit of Tsukishima sta.

The retrospecive streets relate to the time when Tokyo was once called Edo
Time has stopped here since the Edo Period, Which is reflected by the numerous stores in Asakusa.Take a walk and you can step back in time.

Kaminarimon

The main gate to the Kinryuzan-Senso-ji Temple, Kaminarimon is an eight-pillared gate, painted vermillion with a unique architecture. Originally erected in 942 A.D., the present structure is a reconstruction built in 1960.
Access
•Take the Asakusa station of Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Toei Subway Asakusa Line, or Kuramae station of Oedo Line.
Nakamise-Dori (Nakamise Street)

The temple entrance between Kaminari-mon and Senso-ji Temple is known as Nakamise Street. Lining along the street are approximately 90 shops famous for their sweets, Kimono, toys and crafts.
Access
•Take the Asakusa station of Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Toei Subway Asakusa Line, or Kuramae station of Oedo Line.
Sensoji Temple (Asakusa Kannon)

From Kaminari-mon (Thunder Gate), Nakamise-Dori leads straight to Senso-ji. 87 small shops packed with senbei rice crackers, small ningyoyaki pancakes, kimonos and fans, etc. line the street.
Access
•From Asakusa station of the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line(Exit 1 - 8) or Toei Subway Asakusa Line(Exit A4 or A5).
Kappabashi Dogugai (Kitchenware Town)

About 170 stores stand on a street over 800m long. Concentrations of this sort of specialty shop are rare all over the world. All kinds of kitchenware is available.
Access
•5-minute walk from the Tawaramachi station of Tokyo Metro Ginza Line.
•6-minute walk from the Iriya station of Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line.
•13-minute walk from the Asakusa station of Toei Subway Asakusa Line.
•5-minute walk from the Asakusa station of Tsukuba-Express.
Rokku Broadway

6 statues of Gods of Arts modeled after singers including Enoken and Taro Shoji are displayed here. Lining along the street are movie theaters and arts and entertainment halls.
Access
•7-minute walk from #1 exit of the Asakusa station. on Tokyo Metro Ginza Line.
•About 8-minute walk from Asakusa station (A4 exit) of Toei Subway Asakusa Line.
•Take the Tawaramachi station of Tokyo Metro Ginza Line.
•Take the A1 exit of Asakusa station, on Tsukuba Express.
Hanayashiki Amusement Park

24 kinds of attractions are squeezed into a limited space.
Access
•5-minute walk from the Asakusa station of Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Subway Asakusa Line and Tobu-Isezaki Line.

Kaminarimon

The main gate to the Kinryuzan-Senso-ji Temple, Kaminarimon is an eight-pillared gate, painted vermillion with a unique architecture. Originally erected in 942 A.D., the present structure is a reconstruction built in 1960.
Access
•Take the Asakusa station of Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Toei Subway Asakusa Line, or Kuramae station of Oedo Line.
Nakamise-Dori (Nakamise Street)

The temple entrance between Kaminari-mon and Senso-ji Temple is known as Nakamise Street. Lining along the street are approximately 90 shops famous for their sweets, Kimono, toys and crafts.
Access
•Take the Asakusa station of Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Toei Subway Asakusa Line, or Kuramae station of Oedo Line.
Sensoji Temple (Asakusa Kannon)

From Kaminari-mon (Thunder Gate), Nakamise-Dori leads straight to Senso-ji. 87 small shops packed with senbei rice crackers, small ningyoyaki pancakes, kimonos and fans, etc. line the street.
Access
•From Asakusa station of the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line(Exit 1 - 8) or Toei Subway Asakusa Line(Exit A4 or A5).
Kappabashi Dogugai (Kitchenware Town)

About 170 stores stand on a street over 800m long. Concentrations of this sort of specialty shop are rare all over the world. All kinds of kitchenware is available.
Access
•5-minute walk from the Tawaramachi station of Tokyo Metro Ginza Line.
•6-minute walk from the Iriya station of Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line.
•13-minute walk from the Asakusa station of Toei Subway Asakusa Line.
•5-minute walk from the Asakusa station of Tsukuba-Express.
Rokku Broadway

6 statues of Gods of Arts modeled after singers including Enoken and Taro Shoji are displayed here. Lining along the street are movie theaters and arts and entertainment halls.
Access
•7-minute walk from #1 exit of the Asakusa station. on Tokyo Metro Ginza Line.
•About 8-minute walk from Asakusa station (A4 exit) of Toei Subway Asakusa Line.
•Take the Tawaramachi station of Tokyo Metro Ginza Line.
•Take the A1 exit of Asakusa station, on Tsukuba Express.
Hanayashiki Amusement Park

24 kinds of attractions are squeezed into a limited space.
Access
•5-minute walk from the Asakusa station of Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Subway Asakusa Line and Tobu-Isezaki Line.

Vital town where you can feel history and culture.
Solemn museum buildings are scattered throughout Ueno Park. The lively stores are typically found downtown. You can find here both healing power and excitement.
ACCESS

●from Tokyo Station Tokyo Station JR Yamanote Line / Bound for Ueno,Ikebukuro →Ueno
time required：about 7 minutes fare：150 yen (one way)
●from Tokyo Station Tokyo Station JR Yamanote Line / Bound for Ueno,Ikebukuro(about 2 minutes) → Tokyo Metoro Ginza Line(about 5 minutes) →Ueno
time required：about 7 minutes fare：290 yen (one way)

Ueno Station and Its Surrounding Area

In Atre Ueno, a shop complex in the station building, there are galleries, restaurants and various shops. You would come across many artworks in the building, which makes you feel that the place is really cool.
Access
•Ueno Station: JR Lines, the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, and the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line.
Ueno Koen

The park is dotted with museums, art museums, cultural facilities, a zoo and shrines. It is a very famous Hanami (watching cherry blossoms) spot in spring.
Access
•From JR and the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno, about 2 minutes' walk, from Keisei Ueno, about 1 minute's walk. Exit Koenguchi. (the same exit: following 73 - 78)
Ueno Zoo

The first zoo in Japan. There are more than five hundred kinds of animals such as Panda bears and aye-ayes from the world.
Access
•From JR and the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno, about 5 minutes' walk, from Keisei Ueno, about 5 minutes' walk.
Tokyo National Museum

It collects and keeps Japanese and Oriental arts and archaeological relics. Honkan (main building), Toyokan (Oriental building), Heiseikan, and Horyuji-Homotsukan are open to the public.
Access
•From JR and the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno, about 8 minutes' walk, from Keisei Ueno, about 10 minutes' walk, go along the pass behind the National Museum of Western Art and cross the road.
National Science Museum

There are 4 blocks, Honkan, Midorikan, Shinkan and the outdoor section. In Shinkan (New Building) you can touch the exhibits.
Access
•From JR and the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno, about 5 minutes' walk, from Keisei Ueno, about 6 minutes' walk, behind the National Museum of Western Art.
National Museum of Western Art

An art museum for Western art. Various events like concerts or lecture meetings are also held.
Access
•From JR and the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno, about 1 minute's walk, from Keisei Ueno, about 7 minutes' walk, just on the right side of Koenguchi.
Uenonomori Museum (Ueno Royal Museum)

Important cultural properties are open to the public here. International and other various exhibitions are held.
Access
•From JR and the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno, about 4 minutes' walk, from Keisei Ueno, about 5 minutes' walk.
Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum

It opened in 1926. Various artists' groups (oil painting, Japanese painting, handcraft, etc.) hold public or planned exhibitions. There are also restaurants and shops.
Access
•From JR and the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno, about 7 minutes' walk, from Keisei Ueno, about 10 minutes' walk, pass by Tokyo Bunka Kaikan (just close to Ueno Station), then turn to the left, about 4 minutes' walk.
Ameya Yoko Cho

This area is located between Ueno and Okachimachi. Various products including groceries, apparels, cosmetics and medicine are sold at lower cost.
Access
•By JR Ueno Station and Okachimachi station (By the railway between Ueno and Okachimachi) or by the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno Okachimachi station and Toei subway Oedo Line Ueno Hirokoji station
Yushima Tenmangu (Yushima Tenjin)

A shrine, Michizane Sugawara, is dedicated to the God of Academic Education. It is also known for its 300 plum trees, which blooms in spring.
Access
•2 Minutes Walk from the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Yushima station

And More……

The Alps

2009-01-17T00:23:00.002-08:00

The Alps
(The Heaven of Earth)

(German: Alpen; Italian: Alpi; French: Alpes; Slovenian: Alpe) is the
name for one of the great mountain range systems of Europe, stretching from
Austria and Slovenia in the east, through Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and
Germany to France in the west.

The word "Alps" was taken via French from Latin
Alpes (meaning "the Alps"), which may be influenced by the Latin words albus
(white) or altus (high) or more likely a Latin rendering of a Celtic or Ligurian
original.

The highest mountain in the Alps is Mont Blanc, at metres ( ft), on the
French-Italian border. All the main peaks of the Alps can be found in the list
of mountains of the Alps and list of Alpine peaks by prominence.

The west face of the Petit Dru above the Chamonix valley near the Mer de Glace.
The Alps with international borders marked The Großglockner, south of Salzburg, AustriaThe Alps are generally divided into the Western Alps and the Eastern Alps. The division is along the line between Lake Constance and Lake Como, following the Rhine. The Western Alps are higher, but their central chain is shorter and curved; they are located in Italy, France and Switzerland. The Eastern Alps (main ridge system elongated and broad) belong to Austria, Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein, Slovenia and Switzerland. The highest peaks of the Western Alps are Mont Blanc, metres ( ft), Mont Blanc de Courmayeur metres ( ft), the Dufourspitze metres ( ft) and the other summits of the Monte Rosa group, and the Dom, metres ( ft). The highest peak in the
Eastern Alps is Piz Bernina, metres ( ft).

The Eastern Alps are commonly subdivided according to the different lithology
(rock composition) of the more central parts of the Alps and the groups at its
northern and southern fringes:
Flysch zone (from the Wienerwald to Bregenzerwald). Geographically, the Jura
mountains do not belong to the Alps; geologically, however, they do.
Northern Limestone Alps, peaks up to metres ( ft)
Central Eastern Alps (Austria, Switzerland), peaks up to metres ( ft)
Southern Limestone Alps.

The border between the Central Alps and the Southern Limestone Alps is the
Periadriatic Seam. The Northern Limestone Alps are separated from the Central
Eastern Alps by the Grauwacken Zone.

The European Alps from space in 2002.The "main chain of the Alps" follows the
watershed from the Mediterranean Sea to the Wienerwald, passing over many of the
highest and most famous peaks in the Alps. From the Colle di Cadibona to Col de
Tende it runs westwards, before turning to the north-west and then, near the
Colle della Maddalena, to the north. Upon reaching the Swiss border, the line of
the main chain heads approximately east-north-east, a heading it follows until
its end near Vienna.

The Alps do not form an impassable barrier; they have been traversed for war and
commerce, and later by pilgrims, students and tourists. Crossing places by road,
train or foot are called passes. These are depressions in the mountains to which
a valley leads from the plains and hilly pre-mountainous zones.

The Alps are a classic example of what happens when a temperate area at lower
altitude gives way to higher elevation terrain. Elevations around the world
which have cold climates similar to those found in polar areas have been called
alpine. A rise from sea level into the upper regions of the atmosphere causes
the temperature to decrease. The effect of mountain chains on prevailing winds
is to carry warm air belonging to the lower region into an upper zone, where it
expands in volume at the cost of a proportionate loss of heat, often accompanied
by the precipitation of moisture in the form of snow or rain.

Evoluation

The Alps arose as a result of the pressure exerted on sediments of the Tethys
Ocean basin as its Mesozoic and early Cenozoic strata were pushed against the
stable Eurasian landmass by the northward-moving African landmass. Most of this
occurred during the Oligocene and Miocene epochs. The pressure formed great
recumbent folds, or nappes, that rose out of what had become the Tethys Sea and
pushed northward, often breaking and sliding one over the other to form gigantic
thrust faults. Crystalline rocks, which are exposed in the higher central
regions, are the rocks forming Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn, and high peaks in the
Pennine Alps and Hohe Tauern.

The landscape seen today is mostly formed by glaciation during the past two
million years. At least five ice ages have done much to change the region,
scooping out the lakes and rounding off the limestone hills along the northern
border. Glaciers have been retreating during the past 10,000 years, leaving
large granite erratics scattered in the forests in the region. As the last ice
age ended, it is believed that the climate changed so rapidly that the glaciers
retreated back into the mountains in a span of about 200 to 300 years.
Political and cultural history

Little is known of the early dwellers in the Alps, save from the scanty accounts
preserved by Roman and Greek historians and geographers. A few details have come
down to us of the conquest of many of the Alpine tribes by Augustus.
The successive emigration and occupation of the Alpine region by various
Teutonic tribes from the 5th to the 6th centuries are known only in outline,
because to them, as to the Frankish kings and emperors, the Alps offered a route
to other places rather than a permanent residence.
It is not until the final breakup of the Carolingian Empire in the 10th and 11th
centuries that it becomes possible to trace out the local history of the Alps.
Exploration

The higher regions of the Alps were long left to the exclusive attention of the
people of the adjoining valleys, even when Alpine travellers (as distinguished
from Alpine climbers) began to visit these valleys. The two men who first
explored the regions of ice and snow were H.B. de Saussure (1740-1799) in the
Pennine Alps, and the Benedictine monk of Disentis, Placidus a Spescha
(1752-1833), most of whose ascents were made before 1806, in the valleys at the
sources of the Rhine.

Vegetation

A natural vegetation limit with altitude is given by the presence of the chief
deciduous trees — oak, beech, ash and sycamore maple. These do not reach exactly
to the same elevation, nor are they often found growing together; but their
upper limit corresponds accurately enough to the change from a temperate to a
colder climate that is further proved by a change in the wild herbaceous
vegetation. This limit usually lies about metres ( ft) above the sea on the
north side of the Alps, but on the southern slopes it often rises to metres (
ft), sometimes even to metres ( ft).
This region is not always marked by the presence of the characteristic trees.
Human interference has nearly exterminated them in many areas, and, except for
the beech forests of the Austrian Alps, forests of deciduous trees are rarely
found. In many districts where such woods once existed, they have been replaced
by the Scots pine and Norway spruce, which are less sensitive to the ravages of
goats, who are the worst enemies of such trees. The mean annual temperature of
this region differs little from that of the British Islands; but climatic
conditions are widely different. In the Alps, snow usually stays for several
months, until spring and summer, which are considerably warmer on average than
those seasons in Britain.
Above the forestry, there is often a band of short pine trees (Pinus mugo),
which is in turn superseded by dwarf shrubs, typically Rhododendron ferrugineum
(on acid soils) or Rhododendron hirsutum (on basic soils). Above this is the
alpine meadow, and even higher, the vegetation becomes more and more sparse. At
these higher altitudes, the plants tend to form isolated cushions. In the Alps,
several species of flowering plants have been recorded above metres ( ft),
including Ranunculus glacialis, Androsace alpina and Saxifraga biflora.

Hotels in Alps, Swizerland

1.Bellevue Palace
2.Hôtel Eidelweiss
3.SYHA Hostel
4.Bellevue PalaceEurope
5.Uto KulmEurope Switzerland
6.Hôtel Beau-Rivage
7.Hôtel Mont BlancEurope
8.SwitzerlandLonely Planet
9.RE: Mountain Climbing
10.Europe -

Tehran

2009-01-17T00:23:00.001-08:00

Tehran

Tehran is a metropolis of 14 million situated at the foot of the towering
Alborz range.Tehran is the capital city of Iran. More than half of Iran's industry is based in Tehran. Industries include the manufacturing of automobiles, electronics and electrical equipment, military weaponry, textiles, sugar, cement, and chemical products. It is also a leading center for the sale of carpets and furniture. There is an oil refinery south of the city.

Airport: There are no direct flights from North America or Australia, but there are flights direct from numerous European, African and Asian cities as well as cities in the Middle East. Also, Iran Air has recently started a flight from Caracas via Damascus. Tehran's Mehrabad airport is the old pre-revolution airport and is being replaced with the new Imam Khomeini International Airport, recently all the International flights are destined to Imam Khomeini and Mehrabad became a local flights host.

The fundamentalist Islamic principles are followed in this country very strictly. And anti American sentiment can be found here in many places. Although there are many worthy sight seeing and buildings are telling the real story of the Iranian culture and valour. Her we can see some important sights.

Museums:
The National Museum: The National Museum of Iran has ceramics, stone figures and carvings dating all the way back to around the 5th millennium BC.
Golestan Palace, the oldest of the historic monuments in Tehran.
Niavaran Palace,
Kolahstudio-an Art Basement,
Sa'd Abad Gallery of Fine Arts,
Glassware Museum of Tehran,
Iran's National Rug Gallery,
Reza Abbasi Museum,
Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art,
Tehran Theater of the Performing Arts (Te'atr e Shahr)
Talar Vahdat Theater
National Museum of Iran,
Darabad Museum of Natural History
Saadabad Palace, (Persian site).
Time Museum, Evolution of time-measurement instruments. Located in Farmaniye district, north of Tehran
Money Museum, Coins and banknotes from different historic periods.
Located in Mirdamad street.
National Arts Museum, Located in Baharestan district.
Ebrat Museum, The prison of Shah ages.

Treasury of National Jewels:
The National Jewelry Treasury is housed within the Central Bank of the Islamic Republic of Iran, at the heart of the City of Tehran. Here is the most dazzling
collection of gemstones and jewelry known in the world. The Crown Jewels of Iran
have been little more than a legend in the past. Travelers marveled at the splendor
surrounding the shahs of ancient Persia.

Golestan Palace:Built in the last years of Naser al-Din Shah Qajar's reign (1831 -
896), the Golestan palace, or Rose Garden palace, was a museum for the royal
jewels, including the famous Peacock Throne brought by Nadir Shah Afshar (1688 -
1747) from his expeditions to India. The Golestan Palace also includes other chambers, collectively known as Talar-i Berelian (or Diamond Chamber). The Golestan is still a museum.

Niavarān Palace: Niavaran Palace Complex is situated in the northern part of Tehran,
Iran. It consists of several buildings and a museum. The Sahebqraniyeh Palace from
the time of Nasir al-Din Shah of Qajar dynasty is also inside this complex. The
Niavaran Palace was the primary residence of the last Shah, Mohammad Reza
Pahlavi and the Imperial family until the Iranian Revolution.

Glassware & Ceramic Museum:The premises that have been turned into museum
where glass and clay works are on display were built about 90 years ago upon orders
of Ahmad Qavam (Qavam-ol-Saltaneh) for his personal lodging. The building is situated in a garden with a span of 7000 square meters and was used by Qavam himself till the year 1953. Later, the building were sold to the Egyptians as the new premises for the embassy of Egypt and remained in their possession for seven years. When relations were trained between Iran and Egypt at the time of Abdul Nasser and subsequent to the closure of the Egyptian embassy in Iran, the Commercial Bank purchased the building.
However, it was sold to Farah Pahlavi’s bureau in 1976 and was turned into a museum by three groups of Iranian, Austrian and French architects. The main establishment of the museum that occupies an area of 1040 square meters
is a two-storey octagonal building with suspended pillars and a basement. It is
situated on the entrance side of the premises. The architectural style of the building is a combination of the traditional Iranian style and the European architecture of the 19th century.

The Saadabad Palace:The Saadabad Palace was built by the Pahlavi dynasty
of Iran in the Shemiran area (north) of Tehran. This garden was the summer residence of Qajar Dynasty and has an area of 110 hectares. Reza Shah first lived there in the 1920s. Mohammad Reza Pahlavi moved there in the 1970s. After the Iranian Revolution it became a museum. There are other sites also in this palace.

1. Ahmad shah Castle
2. Shahvand Castle
3. White Castle or White House
4. Special Castle
5. Black Castle
6. Shams Castle
7. Ashraf Castle
8. Gholam Reza Castle
9. Mother's Queen Castle
10. Ahmad Reza Castle
11. Abdol Reza Castle
12. Bahman Pahlavi Castle
13. Shahram Castle
14. Farideh Diba
15. Valiahd Reza Pahlavi Castle
16. Valiahd Reza Pahlavi Castle
17. Farahnaz and Ali Reza Castle
18. Leila Castle
The museums which are currently open to visitors are :
- Green Palace
- Nation’s Palace
- Military Museum
- Water Museum
- Behzad Museum
- Museum of Fine Arts
- Abkar Musuem
- Farshchian Museum
- Museum of Natural History

Mausoleum of Khomeini: The Mausoleum of Ayatollah Khomeini houses the tomb of Ruhollah Musawi Khomeini. It is located to the south of Tehran in the zehesht-e Zahra (the Paradise of Zahra) cemetery. Construction commenced in 1989
following Khomeini's death on June 3, 1989. It is still under construction. It spread over 5,000 acres (20 km²),housing a cultural and tourist center, a university for Islamic studies, a seminary, a shopping mall, and a 20,000-car parking lot. The site is a place of pilgrimage for followers of Khomeini. It is used symbolically by government figures, and is on occasion visited by foreign dignitaries. Khomeini's grandson Hassan Khomeini is in charge of caring for the mausoleum.
The architect of the tomb was Mohammed Tehrani.
The exterior of the shrine complex is a highly recognizable landmark. It has a gold
dome sitting on a high drum, surrounded by four free-standing minarets. The shrine is surrounded by a large rectangular plaza which has been designed to hold vast
numbers of visitors.
Inside, Khomeini's sarcophagus is centrally placed under the gilded dome. The ceiling is also punctuated by clerestories. The floor and wall surfaces are made of polished white marble. The floor is covered with fine carpets. Non-Muslims are allowed inside the complex.

Behesht-e Zahra: Behesht-e Zahra has the meaning of the Paradise of Zahara. It is the largest cemetery in Iran. Located in the southern part of metropolitan Tehran, it is connected to the city by a metro line. Many of the deceased soldiers of the Iran-Iraq War are buried there. Many Iranian officials, including Ayatollah Khomeini (previous Supreme leader of Iran), Mohammad-Ali Rajai (second Iranian president), Mohammad Javad Bahonar (Prime Minister), and many others are also buried there.

The attractions of Tehran:

There are more than 800 well planned parks in Tehran. Jamshidieh Park which is located in the Niavaran district at the base of the Kolakchal Mountain, is one of the most picturesque and beautiful parks in Tehran. Mellat Park in Valiasr street is one of the largest recreation areas in the Middle-East. Niavaran Park is one of Tehran's famous and most pleasant public city parks. It is located within the Niavaran district and is situated immediately south of the Niavaran Palace Complex.

Caspian Sea visit is a must for the tourists. The holiday town of Ramsar is about five hours away, and the drive across the Alborz Mountains is spectacular. Namakabrud Villa city and gondola lift in beautiful green coasts of Caspian Sea in the northern Iran is about 4.5 hours away.

The quintessential Persian drink is a Doogh. Its is a mixture of yoghurt, water, salt and spices. It can be purchased at almost any establishment and is often consumed in the afternoon while eating kababs. For trendy cafes filled with liberal Iranins try Gandhi Shopping center where you will find about ten coffee shops as well as a few very good restaurants, including Monsoon. The best and most atmospheric cafe in Tehran must be Entracte Cafe.

Ski: To enjoy the Ski, there is Tochal gondola lift on the northern
outskirts of the city. The Darband chair lift is an alternative to the one at Tochal. Dizin Ski Resort is a great one. Dizin, is located in the Alborz mountains north of Tehran.

Bazaar: Tehran's massive bazaar is situated in the city's south. The main entrance on 15 Khordad Avenue leads to a labyrinth of stalls and shops that were once the engine room of Iran's commodity markets and one of Imam Khomeini's greatest sources of conservative, pro-Revolution support. As usual shops are clustered according to the products they sell.

Malls: Shopping in numerous shopping malls almost every where in the city. Valiasr street and Tajrish square are just two of the many locations full of shopping centers in Tehran.

Tips to the tourists:
Never take unmarked taxis. It is advisable not to take a private taxi for instance at 2:00 AM. The traffic in Tehran is very dangerous and should be considered some of the worlds worst. Gay and lesbian travellers should be careful when traveling to Tehran due to strict regulations on homosexual activity. If a tourist is found to be a homosexual the government will technically immediately deport them.

ATM's in Iran do not accept foreign except some which accept cards from arab state banks, so bring ALL the money you might need in cash, preferably in US or a selection of European currencies.

Be aware that prices in Iran are quoted in tomans, a thousand tomans is equivalent to one of those ten thousand Rials bills. You will soon get used to this. Iranians are also sometimes prone to state prices in thousands of tomans, saying "four" when they mean four thousand tomans or forty thousand rials.

Hotels: Firouzeh Hotel, Dolat Abadi Alley, Amir Kabir Street, ☎ +98 21 33113508.
Hotel Khazar Sea, 12 Ohady Alley, Amir Kabir Street, ☎ +98 21 33113860.
Hotel Naderi, Jomhuri Ave.. One of the cheapest hotels outside the Simorgh Hotel, Valiasr Street near Saei Park.

Tasmania – The land of wines

2009-01-17T00:22:00.002-08:00

Tasmania – The land of wines
Before 10 thousand years, there was no Tasmania. The rise of Southern Sea level, separated 240 k.m., from Australia. Now we call it Tasmania, previously Van Dieman’s Land.
Tasmania known for its cleanest air, pure water, fertile soil, wines and food. Its landscape is a never-ending display of nature’s gift. Believe it or not, the grand forests are the gift of nature, prize of beauty. Its rocky coastline, are never see places of the world. Tamar River and across the rest of the south east spreads rainforests with spectacular gorges and waterfalls. Edging this region are beaches and bays where fertile agricultural lands meet the sea. In the South the wilderness really takes over with most of the bottom half of the state taken up with national parklands and hidden caverns. The south-east region is beautiful with several offshore islands and the Tasman peninsular providing awe-inspiring scenery.
Tasmania is a natural island a land of dramatic coastlines, rugged mountains, tall forests and sparkling highland lakes. Over a third of the state is reserved in a network of National Parks and the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, a refuge and habitat for rare plants and animals, including survivors of the ancient southern super continent, Gondwana.- Tasmania has more than 2000 km of walking tracks and 18 national parks.- The Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area covers 1.38 million hectares.
Location: The next stop of Antartica, Tasmania, separated from mainland Australia by the stretch of Bass Strait, Tasmania it is a land of friendly, welcoming people; a pleasant, temperate climate; wonderful wine and food; a rich history; and a relaxed island lifestyle. Climate: The Hobart has the nation’s second-lowest rainfall (626 mm or 24 inches) of all Australian capital cities. Other than this, the average summer temperature is a comfortable 21°C (70°F). Winter’s average is 12°C (52° F).
History: About 12 thousand years ago sea level was rising as the most recent period of global glaciation eased. The land mass now called as Tasmania was cut off with the Aboriginal people living here. The Aborigines shared the some different traits of Australian mainland Aboriginal people. The Tasmanians Aborigines were hunters. They made tools and containers from wood, bone, stone, seaweed, bark, grass and sinew. They managed their environment carefully, moving around their country to harvest seasonal food resources and using fire to maintain grasslands which supported an abundance of wallabies and kangaroos.Coastal people relied on the sea for much of their diet. Scale fish were eaten in the distant past. The women collected abalone, oysters, mussels and other shellfish. The remains of these make up enormous middens all around Tasmania’s coastline. The Tasmanians made bark canoes to travel to offshore islands to harvest muttonbirds and seals during summer and autumn. The people camped in family groups several of which formed a band, the land-holding group in Tasmanian society. There were nine language groups / tribes in Tasmania at the time of European contact. Bands with reciprocal arrangements intermarried and shared resources.The important dates in Tasmanian History:1642 - Abel Janszoon Tasman, the Dutch explorer, sailed passed the west coast of our island. In praise of the Governor of Batavia, he named it Van Diemen’s Land.
1772 - The first Europeans landed on the island, the company from the expedition of the French explorer Marion du Fresne, came ashore at Marion Bay on the east coast.1803 - Lieutenant John Bowen, a British soldier, chose Risdon Cove on the eastern shore of the River Derwent in the south-east for the first settlement of Europeans.
1804 - Lieutenant-governor David Collins moved the settlement across the river and Hobart was founded.1825 - Van Diemen’s Land, which had been part of the colony of New South Wales, became a colony in its own right.1830 - The Black Line, a military plan to round up Aborigines, was started. George Augustus Robinson started his mission to protect Aborigines and take them to a settlement on Flinders Island.
1842 - Hobart Town became a city. Convict transportation reached its peak - 5,329 in one year.1854 - The houses of Parliament (upper and lower) were established.1856 - Van Diemen’s Land’s name was changed to Tasmania. The title ‘governor’ was conferred on the representative of the English crown.1877 - The penal settlement at Port Arthur was closed.1901 - The Commonwealth of Australia proclaimed - Tasmania became a state of Australia.
The People: - The population of Tasmania is 456,652 . Main centres are Hobart (the capital city with 200,000 people) Launceston (98,500) Burnie (18,000) and Devonport (25,000) The population of Tasmania at the last national Census was 456,652 people (224,038 males and 232,614 females) with an average age of 34. There were 15,773 people of Indigenous origin living in the region.Of the population, 85% were Australian-born with the remaining residents hailing from the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Netherlands. English is the language spoken at home by 93% of the population. And more Italian, German and Chinese are also prevalent in small numbers.
Of the the recent population, 38% had recently used a personal computer at home with 14% under 20 years old, 15% between 20 and 44 and 9% aged 44 and over. The total number of people who had recently used the Internet was about 153,720. Cities: The Capital city and the largest city is Hobart. Other major adjacent areas are city of Hobart, city of Glenorchy and the City of clarence. And more Launceston in the north and Devonport and Burnie in the northwest. The subantarctic Macquarie Island is also under the administration of the state, as part of the Huon Valley Council local government area.

Government: Constitutional monarchy
Governor : Peter Underwood
Premier: David Bartlett (ALP)
Federal position: - House seats 5 - Senate seats 12

Gross State Product (2006-07)
Product ($m): $19,239[1] (7th)
Product per capita :$39,160 (8th)

Density:
7.21/km² (4th)
18.7 /sq mi
Area - Total 90,758 km² (7th)
35,042 sq mi
Land 68,401 km²
26,410 sq mi
Water 22,357 km² (24.63%)
8,632 sq mi

Elevation:

Highest: Mount Ossa
+1,614 m AHD[2] (5,295 ft)
Time zone: UTC+10 (+11 DST)
Postal code: TAS
ISO 3166-2
AU-TS

Government Emblems:
Flora Tasmanian Blue Gum
Mineral Crocoite
Official web site www.tas.gov.au
The Cabinet - Government of Tasmania

1. David Bartlett - Premier of Tasmania.

Minister for Education and Skills

Minister for Planning and Workplace Relations

2. Lara Giddings

Minister for Health and Human Services

3. Michael Aird

Treasurer

Minister for Racing

4. David Llewellyn

Minister for Primary Industries and Water

Minister for Justice

Minister for Energy and Resources

5. Jim Cox

Minister for Police and Emergency Management

Minister for Local Government

6. Paula Wriedt

Minister for Economic Development and Tourism

7. Michelle O'Byrne

Minister for Environment, Parks, Heritage and the Arts

Minister for Sport and Recreation

8. Graeme Sturges

Minister for Infrastructure

Places of importance in Tasmania: There are many more beauty of the nature is awiting for the mankind ready to give feast of eyes. We can see some of the places of importance Tasmania has in its own.

Port Arthur Historic Site
The former convicts site, Arthur Historic Site is on the Tasman Peninsula, is one of greatest tourism destinations. This Historic Site has over 30 buildings, ruins and restored period homes set in 40 hectares of landscaped grounds. Site entry is valid for two consecutive days and includes an Introductory Guided Walking Tour, Harbour Cruise, access to Museum, Convict Study Centre and Interpretation Gallery and the site of the Dockyard.For a small additional fee you can also cruise to the Isle of the Dead and join a guided tour of Port Arthur’s island burial ground. An insight into the lives of those who were part of the penal settlement including convicts, soldiers, civilians and their families.
And, Point Puer Boys Prison. The first reformatory in the British Empire built exclusively for juvenile male convicts. Was renowned for its regime of stern discipline and harsh punishment. Here we can See the remains of structures built by the boys in a bush landscape little changed since the 19th century.
Ancient Relics: Ancient Relics is open seven days a week where you will discover a treasure trove of antiques both local and from around the world. Chinese antiques, such as 150 year old wedding sedan, ancient bone inlayed furniture, rustic country relics. French wrought iron ware. Also specialising in garden archtectural pieces, European cast iron ware, Victorian urns statues and fountains, unique giftware and old fashioned lolly shop.
devils@cradle:devils@cradle is a Tasmanian devil interpretation and viewing centre at Cradle Mountain, north west Tasmania. devils@cradle is 500 metres from the entrance to the Cradle Mountain national park on the Cradle View property, an hour’s drive south west of Devonport (83 kilometres).The items in the devils cradle is sunbaking, sleeping in the dens or running around in their enclosures. Is committed to the conservation and protection of this now vulnerable species. The centre operates a successful captive breeding program, ensuring the ongoing survival of Tasmanian Devils in healthy numbers in the wild.
Leven Valley Vineyard:The Leven Valley Vineyard is located at Gunns Plains, northwest Tasmania. Gunns Plains sits beneath the Dial Range, a 20-minute drive south of Ulverstone (20 kilometres).The one-hectare vineyard (2.5 acres) specialises in pinot noir and chardonnay grapes. You can also visit nearby Gunns Plains Cave to see limestone formations, a subterranean river, and colony of glow-worms. Visit the spectacular Leven Canyon, or Winterbrook Falls, where you can see a remnant stand of 1,000 year-old King Billy pine trees.
Devonport Gallery and Arts Centre: The Devonport Gallery and Arts Centre is a regional public art museum in north-west Tasmania. Devonport is a small coastal city, 90 minutes' north-west of Launceston (101 kilometres/63 miles). The Devonport Gallery and Arts Centre is housed in a converted 19th century church in the town’s centre. It features a permanent collection of fine and decorative art and craft, with a predominant interest in 20th century glass, ceramics and woodcraft. There is an emphasis on work by Tasmanian artists, and the Gallery hosts touring exhibitions throughout the year. An ongoing public art program includes workshops, artists’ slide talks, lectures and holiday art activities. The Gallery has exhibited work by a number of prominent Australian artists including Tasmanian painter David Keeling, West Australian artist Jonathan Kimberley and renowned Tasmanian printmaker Bea Maddock.Other galleries and museums in Devonport include the Tiagarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre - an interpretation centre for the history, cultures and art of Aboriginal people in Tasmania. You can visit the working exhibits at the Don River Railway Museum or explore Tasmania’s seagoing history at the Tasmanian Maritime Museum.
The Tasman Peninsula: Is a land of farms, forests, sheer dolerite cliffs, sweeping views across the Tasman Sea and the place of the world’s southern-most historic prison. It is almost an island apart.
At Copping you will find small vineyards and cafes selling local specialities - octopus, oysters, quail and venison.The Derwent Valley: It takes its name from the mighty river that rises at Lake St Clair and includes rich farmlands, rural settlements named by Scots and Irish settlers, and rugged escarpments and forests. It’s a valley of tough pioneers, explorers, bushmen, dam builders and bush rangers. Their stories begin in the historic town of New Norfolk, with its fine collection of heritage buildings. Look for Australia’s oldest Anglican church, the quaint toll house by the bridge, and the Oast House Museum, where the scent of hops still lingers on. Further on are the Salmon Ponds where the first brown trout were hatched in the late 1800s. Today, their descendants provide some of the world ’s finest fly fishing in Tasmania ’s many lakes, rivers and streams.
Cuisine
Tasmania is famous for the English foods. During colonial times typical English cuisine would have been standard in most areas of Tasmania. After the arrival of other country people, Tasmania now has a variety of restaurants. Tasmanian beer brands such as Boags and Cascade are known and sold on the mainland. King Island off the northwestern coast of Tasmania has a reputation for boutique cheeses and dairy products.
Airports of Tasmania:
1. Burnie Wynyard Airport (BWT)
2. Devonport Airport (DPO)
3. Hobart Airport (HBA)
4. Queenstown Airport (UEE)
5. Smithton Airport (SIO)
Tasmania hotels:
1. Cradle Mountain National Park, North West Tasmania (TAS)
2. Leisure Inns Penny Royal. Launceston, North East Tasmania (TAS)
3. Somerset on the Pier (Formerly Oakford on Elizabeth Pier), Hobart and South Tasmania (TAS)
4. Freycinet Lodge, Coles Bay, North East Tasmania (TAS)
5. Best Western Coach House Motor Inn, Launceston, North East Tasmania
6. Peppers Seaport Hotel. Launceston?, North East Tasmania (TAS)
7. Salamanca Terraces, Battery Point, Hobart and South Tasmania (TAS)
8. Somerset on Salamanca Hobart, Hobart and South Tasmania (TAS)
9. Aberdeen Court, Launceston South, North East Tasmania (TAS)
10. Peppers Seaport Hotel, Launceston?, North East Tasmania (TAS)
And more……

The “Must Do”s in Tasmania
Trout Fishing, The Overland Track, Great Tasmanian Bike Ride. And, drink the Tasmanian wine.
Caution: Over speed in cars and ferries is dangerous and wild animals and snakes I the den forests is a danger, be cautiously.

Suva

2009-01-17T00:22:00.001-08:00

Suva

Introduction

The capital of Fiji is Suva. Located on the southeast coast of the island of Viti Levu. In 1877, it was decided to make Suva the capital of Fiji. Situated in the South Pacific outside of Australia and New Zealand. It is Fiji's main port city. Although Suva is on a peninsula, and almost surrounded by sea, the nearby coast is lined by mangroves. A significant part of the city centre, including the old Parliament Buildings, is built on reclaimed mangrove swamp.Suva is noted for its considerable rainfall. We cannot go out without umbrella.

Suva is a homeland of multiracial and multicultural people. Indigenous Fijians and Indo-Fijians, the two principal ethnic groups of Fiji, comprises the major population. But the city is also home to the majority of Fiji's ethnic minority populations, which include Caucasians and Chinese, amongst others. The majority of expatriates working in Fiji are also based in Suva. The most widely spoken language is English, but Fijian, Hindustani, and other Indian languages are also spoken by their respective communities.

History

After the annexation of the Fiji Islands by the United Kingdom in 1874, the
colonial authorities decided to move the capital to Suva from Levuka in 1877.
The transfer was made official in 1882. Colonel F.E. Pratt of the Royal
Engineers was appointed Surveyor-General in 1875 and designed the new capital, assisted by W. Stephens and Colonel R.W. Stewart.

Landmarks

Suva City Library: It was built in 1909 is an important landmark of this city.
Government House was formerly the residence of Fiji's colonial Governors and, following independence in 1970, Governors-General. It is now the official residence of Fiji's President.

Suva Municipal Market Right: A vast array of tropical produce is offered for sale at Suva's main supply of food, the largest and most lively market in the South Pacific. If they aren't too busy, the merchants will appreciate your interest and answer your questions about the names and uses of the various fruits and vegetables. The market teems on Saturday morning, when it seems as if the entire population of Suva shows up to shop and select television programs for the weekend's viewing. The bus station is behind the market on Rodwell Road.

Museum: The Fiji Museum, located in Thurston Gardens, was founded in 1904 and originally occupied the old town hall, but moved to its present location in 1954. The museum houses the most extensive collection of Fijian artifacts in the world. Fiji Museum holds a remarkable collection which includes archaeological material dating back 3,700 years and cultural objects representing both Fiji's indigenous inhabitants and other communities that have settled in the island group over the past 100 years.

Parks: Suva has around 78 parks, these include the new Takashi Suzuki Garden, Apted Park at Suva Point which is a popular spot for viewing sunrise and sunset, Thurston Gardens which was opened in 1913 and has flora from throughout the South Pacific.

The Fiji School of Medicine and one of the three campuses of the University of the South Pacific are in Suva.

Municipal Handicraft Centre To the left of the fruit and vege markets are the Suva handicraft markets. Rows full of Fijian wooden carvings, straw goods and Fijian handicraft souvenirs. Don't be afraid to barter with the shop owners for a better price!

Places of interest

Nadi: It takes three hours drive away towards the west of the island. Coral Sun run air-conditioned buses twice a day between Suva and Nadi (7.30am and 4pm) also stopping by request at the resorts along the way.

Pacific Harbour: It is located in a 45 minute drive from Suva (towards Nadi).This is the adventure capital of Fiji offering Scuba diving, snorkeling, cultural tours etc. There are shops, cafes, a man made beach called the Tiki pools and a big cultural centre. There is a range of accommodation here including private villas, backpackers and apartments.

Colo-i-suva Forest Park: At an altitude of 121 to 182m (400 to 600 feet), Colo -- I-Suva Forest Park, on the Prince's Road 11km from downtown Suva provides a cool, refreshing respite from the heat. The park is open daily 8am to 4pm.

Airport: Air Fiji has an early morning flight from Nausori airport to Ovalau and a late afternoon flight back to Nausori.

Culture

Meke (Dance): Visitors are often welcomed at resorts and hotels with a ‘meke’, a dance
performance that enacts local stories and legends. Now, Important guests and onlookers are honoured with the best seating positions. In the past, Fijian meke were accompanied by chanting by a chorus or by ‘spiritually possessed seers’, and usually rhythmic clapping, the thumping and stamping of bamboo clacking sticks, the beating of slit drums and dancing. They were held purely for entertainment, for welcoming visitors, or on important religious and social occasions; births, deaths, marriages, and property exchanges between villages. Men, women and children participated in meke. Men performed club and spear dances and the women performed fan dances.

Yaqona Drinking: Yaqona, otherwise known as kava, is an infusion prepared from the root of Piper methysticum, a type of pepper plant. It is extremeny important in Fijian culture - in the time of the 'old religion' it was used ceremonially by chiefs and priests only. Today, yaqona is part of daily life, not only in villages but across the different races and in urban areas. 'Having a grog' is used for welcoming and bonding with visitors, for storytelling sessions or merely for passing time. Women usually sit behind the men and won't get offered the first drink unless they are the guest of honour. Never walk across the circle of participants, turn your back to the tanoa or step over the cord that leads from the tanoa to a white cowry (it represents a link with the spirits).
The drink is prepared in the tanoa. The dried and powdered root, wrapped in a piece of cloth, is mixed with water and the resulting concoction looks (and tastes) like muddy water. You will then be offered a drink from a bilo (half a coconut shell). Clap once, accept the bilo and say 'bula' (meaning 'cheers', or literally, 'life'), before drinking it all in one go. Clap three times in gratification and try not to grimace. The drink will be shared until the tanoa is empty. You are not obligated to drink every bilo offered to you, but it is polite to drink at least the first.

Bark Cloth and Traditional Textiles: Masi, also known as tapa, is bark cloth with black and rust-coloured printed designs. Masi played an important role in Fijian culture and its motifs had symbolic meaning and to a certain extent still do. It is used for special occasions - in 1996 the Tui Cakau wore masi ceremonial attire at his installation as paramount chief of the Cakaudrove region. Fijian masi is now mostly made for tourists and is used for postcards, wall hangings and other decorative items. Textile designers are now incorporating traditional masi motifs in their fabrics.

Mat and Basket Weaving: Most Fijian homes use woven pandanus-leaf mats for floor coverings, dining mats and as finer sleeping mats. They are much in demand as wedding presents and for baptisms, funerals and presentations to chiefs. Most village girls learn the craft, traditionally it was the hereditary role of the women of certain tribes. The pandanus leaves are cut and laid outdoors to cure, then stripped of the spiny edges and boiled and dried. The traditional method for blackening the leaves for contrasting patterns is to bury them in mud for days and then boil them with special leaves. The dried pandanus leaves, made flexible by scraping with shells, are split into strips of about 1 to 2cm.

Suva Hotels

1. Capricorn Apartment Hotel Suva

2. Holiday Inn Suva Suva

3. Homestay Suva Suva

4. JJ's on the Park Suva

5. Nanette's Homestay Suva Suva

6. Raintree Lodge Suva

7. South Seas Private Hotel Suva

8. Suva Motor Inn Suva

9. Tanoa Plaza Hotel Suva

10. The Wakaya Club Offshore from Suva

Restaurants

1. Bad Dog Cafe Pizza Suva
2. Hare Krishna Restaurant Indian Suva
3. JJ's on the Park International Suva
4. L'Opera Ristorante Italiano Italian Suva
5. Malt House Brewery & Restaurant International Suva
6. Old Mill Cottage Indian Suva
7. Republic of Cappuccino Desserts Suva
8. Tiko's Floating Restaurant

Visa and Travel Documents:
Holders of Passports from visa exempt countries are granted visitors
visas valid for 4 months on arrival. Extensions can be made up to 6 months
on condition that they hold a valid passport (valid for 3 months) beyond
the intended period of stay in Fiji, outward ticket and sufficient funds to facilitate duration of stay.

The countries exempted from getting visa are:

Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Bangaldesh, Barbados,
Belgium, Belize, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile,
Columbia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica, Estonia, Germany,
Micronesia, Finland, France, Gambia, Ghana, Greece, Grenada, Guyana,
Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kenya,
Kiribati, Latvia, Liechtenstein,Lesotho,Luxebourg, Malawi, Malaysia,
Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Netherlands, New
Zealand,Nigeria, Norway, Pacific Islands, Paraguay, Peru, the Phillipines,
Poland,Portugal,Republic of Ireland, Romania, South Korea, Spain,
Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand,Tonga, Trinidad
and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Tuvalu, Uganda, Ukraine, United Kingdom, USA, Uruguay,Venezuela, Yugoslavia, Zambia, Zimbabwe.

Immigration Department
Phone: (679) 3312622
Fax: (679) 3301653

Stockholm

2009-01-17T00:21:00.002-08:00

Stockholm

One of the youngest cities of the world (founded in the mid 13th century),
Stockholm offers all types entertainments the younger generation needs. The large water bodies in and around this Capital city makes us think of Venice. Therefore, this beautiful city is nicknamed "Venice of the North”.
The atmospheric Air here is said to be the cleanest in the in the world. The Stockholmers feel proud of themselves for they can do Ocean fishing in the heart of the city itself. Generally, it is not possible in any other Capital cities of the nations of the World. The boats and ferries floating in the lake and in the adjacent sea as well simply present a colorful but cost – free entertainment both to our eyes as well as to mind.

The 14 islands and their 24,000 islets honestly justify their name and fame for their natural beauty, wildlife, fjords and nightlife and water amusements. The spectacular Channels and the straits that attract millions of tourists of vast world simply beggar description.

The environment - friendly Stockholmers plan their buildings by allocating spaces of one-third of water, one-third of green space, and one-third of buildings. The gigantic, marvelous Stockholm Concert Hall, the venue for the Nobel Prize, is the prime attraction for the intellectuals around the World and the World famous Opera. All may yearn to lay a step into the famous hall, where every year the prestigious Nobel Awardees are being honored, but only the gifted ones get the chance!

The island of Djurgården, packed with all sorts of entertainment options and its museums, restaurants and wooded green spaces are a delicious feast to the eyes of the tourists. The narrow cobbled-stone streets overshadowed by historic houses and palaces are really the worthy items that add meaning to sightseeing.

The weeklong rainbow carnival makes this wonderful city Stockholm a free zone for the gay and lesbian community. Midsummer Eve, a national holiday celebrated around the city as well as the country with great enthusiasm is a spectacular view for the tourists. Skansen open-air museum is one of around 150 museums that drum both the glorious past and the hilarious present of Stockholm.

Location: Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is situated in the south central part of the country, bordering between the historical provinces Uppland and Södermanland (also known as Sörmland), on the east coast, between lake Mälaren and the Baltic Sea.

Climate: Stockholm has a moderate climate, with mild temperatures in both winter and summer. In winter, temperatures range from about 19°F to 36°F(-7°C to 2°C) and average temperatures in summer range between 68°F and 77°F (20°C-25°C), though sometimes higher. Snowfall usually occurs from January to March but rainfall throughout the year, though July and August tend to be the wettest months. So, every month in Stockholm is a pleasant one for enjoyment. The difference between the seasons is quite large, the summers being green with mild nights, and the winter is dark, cold, rainy, sometimes snowy.

To get in: Stockholm-Arlanda Airport is the primary airport for the region to get in. This airport serves as an important hub for the Scandinavian Airlines. To get into and get out of the airport, there are immense facilities of bus and tram services. The Stockholm Central Station has train connections to many Swedish towns, Oslo and to Copenhagen too.

Stockholm has regular ferry lines to Helsinki and Turku in Finland, Tallinn, Estonia; Riga, Latvia; and to the Åland islands. The large Stockholm archipelago is served by the Waxholmsbolaget archipelago boat services.

Activities: Stockholm is the right place for the amusements of beach life. The island and its numerous islets offer the tourists many variety items to suit the individual taste and interest of each and every tourist. Walking, Skating, Cycling may be the best source of sightseeing, and there are many special and exclusive arrangements for these sorts of entertainments. The time-consuming museums and galleries give great feeling to the tourists. Norrmalm is the major commercial district with plenty of shopping opportunities. The easy walk able shopping streets, found in Drottningatan, runs in a north-south direction through the area, by the square Sergels Torg.

Attractions: Royal Djurgården is the area on the island of Djurgården filled with all sorts of entertainments and places of importance. The former hunting ground of the Royals is now the place of museums, restaurants and wooded green space. The Gröna Lund, Sweden's oldest amusement park is the place where we can explore Sweden's past at the Skansen open-air museum and meet Nordic wildlife at the zoo; and watch folk dancing too.

Royal Palace and Gamla Stan, the official Swedish Royal residence, is one of the largest and most glorious palaces in Europe. In front of the gigantic palace, the changing of the guard ceremony is spectacular, which reminds us of the change of the guard in Britain's Buckingham Palace. Gamla Stan itself is a treasure-trove of Swedish architecture from the 17th century.

The City Hall, where the annual Nobel Prize Banquet takes place, Museum of National Antiquities, one of the oldest open-air museums Skansen and its Aquarium and Zoo are the places, which no tourist should fail to visit and enjoy in Stockholm.

Cuisine: Generally, the Swedish cuisine prepared with hearty meat or fish with potatoes. However, the modern Swedish cuisine is based on bread. Traditional everyday dishes called husmanskost. The cuisine list includes Meatballs, the internationally most famous Swedish dish. Served with potatoes, brown sauce and lingonberry jam. "Hash” consisting of meat, onions and potatoes all diced and fried.

Sliced beetroot and a fried egg is the must items of Stockholm’s food items. Pea soup with diced pork, followed by thin pancakes afterwards. Pickled herring, available in various types of sauces. Commonly eaten with bread or potatoes for summer lunch or as a starter.

Steaks or other grilled dishes garnished with fragrant herbs such as dill, and vegetables such as pumpkin and bell peppers. As in most of Europe, pizza and kebab restaurants are ubiquitous in Swedish cities. Sushi and Thai food are also quite popular.

The most famous Swedish alcoholic beverage is Absolute Vodka, which is one of the world's best vodkas. The travel to Stockholm will complete with this beg of this famous drink.

Hotels: In the category of "Budget", Svenska Turistföreningen or STF is the by far most important operator of hostels in Sweden, with a network of more than 300 hostels around the country. Many types of Mid-range and Splurge hotels are available all along Stockholm and it’s suburban as well.

Seychelles

2009-01-17T00:21:00.001-08:00

Seychelles

Seychelles is a group of island in the Indian Ocean. This small country is one of the countries which do no need passports or Visas. Any one can travel to Seychelles. The total land area of Seychelles is around 455 sq kms. The of Seychelles is around 81,541. Capital city is Victoria. Roman Catholic people are 83% of the population. Anglican 6%, Seventh-Day Adventist 1%, other Christian 3%, Hindu 2% and Muslim 1%. The native Seselwa Creole and English, French are official languages. The name of the currency is, Seychelles Rupee.

History

Austronesian seafarers or Arab traders may have been the first to visit the uninhabited Seychelles. Some records says, in 1502 Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, who passed through this islands.At that time it was a transit point for trading between Africa and Asia. The French began to take control of the islands starting in 1756 when a Stone of Possession was laid by Captain Nicholas Morphey. The islands were named after Jean Moreau de Séchelles, Louis XV’s Minister of Finance.

The British contested control over the islands with the French between 1794 and 1812. Assumed full control upon the surrender of Mauritius in 1812 and this was formalised in 1814 at the Treaty of Paris. The Seychelles became a crown colony separate from Mauritius in 1903 and independence was granted in 1976. In 1977, there was a coup ousted the first president of the republic, James Mancham, replacing him with France Albert René. The 1979 constitution declared a socialist one-party state, which lasted until 1991.

Economy

The economy is mainly dependant on the tourism and tuna industries. The country is trying to lessen its dependence on tourism, with emphasis on farming, fishing and small scale industries. Exports include tuna, frozen fish, cinnamon bark and petroleum products.

To get Seychelles

Air Seychelles the national carrier, operates non-stop scheduled flights from UK (London/Heathrow), France (Paris/Charles de Gaulle), Italy (Rome/Fiumicino), Milan
(Malpensa), Singapore, Mauritius and South Africa (Johannesburg) into Mahé International Airport. In addition, Air Seychelles has a code share agreement with Condor (DE) operating flights from Frankfurt. Qatar Airways (QR) and Emirates (EK) provide flights to various destinations through their hubs in Dubai and Doha. Other airlines flying to Seychelles include Kenya Airways (KQ), and Air Austral (UU).

Flying times to Seychelles are relatively short:
10 hours from London, 9½ hours from Paris, 8½ hours from Rome and Milan, 6¾ hours from Singapore, 2½ hours from Mauritius, 4½ hours from Johannesburg, 5 hours from Doha, 4¼ hours from Dubai, 2¾ hours from Nairobi and 2½ hours from Reunion.

The best time to visit Seychelles

As the Seychelles islands are blessed with a warm, tropical climate year-round, it’s always a good time to visit, although different times of year may be better suited to your particular interests. Two opposing trade winds generally govern the weather pattern: the north-westerly trades blow from October to March when wind speeds average from 8 to 12 knots; and the brisker south-easterly trades blow from May to September with winds of between 10 to 20 knots, bringing the cooler and windier conditions ideal for sailing.

The periods of calm between the trades produce fairly warm and wind-free conditions throughout April and also in October. Conditions for swimming, snorkelling and especially diving are superb during April/May and October/November when the water temperature sometimes reaches 29ºC and visibility is often 30 metres plus.

Islands

Bird island: Bird, Seychelles’ most northerly island is 100km or a 30-minute flight north of Mahé. Bird is situated 28 miles distant from Denis Island and on the edge of the Seychelles bank, where the ocean drops off to more than 2000 metres. Home to ‘Esmeralda’, the world’s heaviest land tortoise, this island is also an important nesting site for turtles year-round. Twenty-four comfortable bungalows, excellent beaches, a reputation for good cuisine and a convivial atmosphere complement great opportunities for snorkelling, deep-sea fishing, and nature watching.

In the early 1970's, Bird turned to tourism, which thrives until today with the Bird Island Lodge sharing this magnificent coral isle with over 1 million sooty terns between April and September.

Cousin island: Cousine is situated approximately 6km off the west coast of Praslin and offers an exclusive island experience with complete privacy found in very few other places on earth. Here only four individual Old French Colonial style villas are there. It is home to five of the Seychelles endemic birds such as the Seychelles magpie robin and Seychelles brush warbler, as well as a variety of endemic fauna and spectacular marine life.

Denis island: Named after Denis de Trobiant, whose ship L'Etoile called there in 1773 to claim the island for the king of France, Denis has also been known in the past as Orixa Island.
Denis lies 85km north of Victoria, Mahé and 28 miles distant from Bird Island making it one of the most northerly of all the Seychelles' islands. Once a thriving coconut plantation, its newly refurbished lodge with 25 charming chalets is the perfect honeymoon getaway. With its lush greenery Denis makes an attractive home for roaming tortoises and nesting sea birds and turtles. Denis offers excellent nature walks as well as the facilities of tennis, diving, windsurfing, canoeing and of course sunbathing on its gleaming white beaches.

In 1975 the island was purchased by Pierre Burkhardt, a French paper magnate who ran the island as a successful lodge with the marketing slogan 'the island at the edge of the world'. The island was sold to Mason's Travel, a local destination management company in the mid 90's who maintain the tradition of a lodge which has been newly refurbished.
There is a lighthouse at the northern end of Denis Island that dates back to 1910.

Fregate island: Frégate was a popular pirate haunt during the latter part of the 17th century and stories persist of treasure hidden somewhere on its 280 hectares.
The Seychellois magnate Harry Savy purchased the island after World War II, transforming it into a highly profitable venture by growing vegetables, fruit, coffee, vanilla, cinammon and poultry for markets on Mahé. The island sustained a population of some 100 persons, busily engaged in Savy’s several lucrative enterprises.

Frégate is situated approximately 55 kms from Mahé and is the most distant of the granitic Inner Island group. This island microcosm measuring some 2 square km is home to no less than fifty species of birds, among which is the rare Seychelles magpie robin, as well as other rare species of fauna.

La Digue island: La Digue takes its name from one of the vessels in explorer Marion Dufresne's fleet, sent by the French to explore Seychelles' granitic islands in 1768. La Digue is an island where time stands still and time-honoured traditions such as travelling by ox-cart and bicycle are still king. Close neighbour to Praslin and to its satellite islands of Félicité, Marianne, and the Sisters Islands, La Digue is the fourth largest island in Seychelles. The friendly atmosphere of this intimate island with its languid pace of life, traditional architecture and breathtaking beaches, such as legendary Anse Source d’Argent, is an absolute must for visitors. Traditional methods of boat building and refining of coconut products (copra) are still practised on La Digue. The picturesque surrounding islands are ideal for snorkelling and diving excursions.

Mahe Island: Mahe, measuring 28kms long by 8kms wide, is the largest island, cultural and economic hub of the Inner Islands and gateway to Seychelles. With a backdrop of towering 1000m granite peaks it is home to the International Airport and the nation’s capital, Victoria. The island is home to almost 90% of the total population (72,000 people), African, Indian, Chinese and European populations and is the seat of government and the chief centre of commerce.
Mahé is the transportation hub for island-hops and day excursions to neighbouring islands and all other islands within Seychelles. All scheduled domestic flights by Air Seychelles originate from Mahé to the serviced islands.

Praslin: The second largest island of Seychelles is Praslin. Having a population of 6,500 people. It lies 45km to the north-east of Mahé and measures 10km by 3.7km. Praslin is the site of the fabulous Vallée de Mai (one of Seychelles’s two U.N.E.S.C.O. World Heritage Sites). The island features truly exquisite beaches such as Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette. Both appearing on the top-10 list of world’s best beaches in recent years. Praslin stands at the forefront of Seychelles’ tourism industry with a strong tradition of hospitality and wide range of accommodation facilities
Praslin was named Isle des Palmes by French navigator Lazare Picault during the course of his exploration of the granitic islands in 1744. It was renamed Praslin after the Duc de Praslin, the French minister of marine in 1768 when the original 'Stone of Possession' was erected in what is still known as Anse Possession. It was on that occasion too that the Vallée de Mai was discovered, bringing an end to the myth that the fruit originated from beneath the sea.
Since its first settlement, Praslin has evolved into an island with its own distinct flavour and enviable pace of life that even its recent popularity as a choice holiday destination has done little to change.

Ste Anne Marine National Park: Lies 4kms off the east coast of Mahe and in close proximity to its neighbours, Cerf Island, Round Island and Moyenne Island. Ste.Anne was the first island to be settled by the early French settlers and later was home to a commercial whaling station and World War II gun battery.

Vallée de Mai: Unesco World Heritage Vallée de Mai is one of only two places in the world where you can see the weird and wonderful coco de mer palm growing in their natural state. You'll see several varieties of screw pine and latanier plams, and, if you're very lucky, the Seychelles black parrot.

Diary

The ‘SUBIOS Underwater Festival’, showcases Seychelles’ extraordinary underwater world through a series of film shows, lectures and competitions, while the 'Festival Kreol' (a week-long celebration of Creole heritage and traditions) is held in October every year.

The Seychelles Sailing Cup, an international sailing event, is scheduled for January with the International Fishing Competition commencing in March. Further local fishing competitions are expected to be held throughout the year.

Hotels

1. Villas de Mer, Praslin.
2. Grand Anse, Praslin
3. Grande Anse, Praslin
4. La Réunion, La Digue
5. N of La Passe, La Digue
6. Anse St Sauveur, Praslin
7. Baie Ste Anne, Praslin
8. Anse Possession, Praslin
9. La Passe, La Digue
10. Villas de Mer, Praslin.
11. Baie Ste Anne, Seychelles
12. Anse Volbert, Praslin
13. Anse St Sauveur, Praslin
14. Anse Volbert, Praslin
15. Anse Volbert, Seychelles
16. N of La Passe, La Digue
17. Baie Ste Anne, Praslin
18. Seychelles La Digue

Serbia

2009-01-17T00:20:00.002-08:00

Serbia
Serbia is one of the "not to be missed" tourist destinations of the world. There is no time limit for the tourists to watch and enjoy over the beauties of this marvelous country. This country offers splendid opportunities to the tourists and travelers through out the year. There are many amusements awaiting your arrival to make you enjoy yourself in both the winter and summer as well. There are many facilities for the world famous spa resorts and ski games.

The monuments of art nouveau architecture, lovely lakes, baroque parks, gigantic monasteries, hills and mountains abounding springs and fountains, endless green rich fertile plains, the great rivers Sava and Danube are all some of the specialties which few countries in the world have. The grand, sculptured buildings all along the neat streets, tells the stories of the past domination of Celts, Romans, Byzantines, Serbs and Austrians.

This dreamland offers all sorts of amusement and entertainment with historical past and ever growing present day amenities. The medieval orthodox monasteries of Studenica, Manasija, Žiča, Ravanica portray the religious hope of the people of this country.

The spa resorts such as Sokobanja, Niška Banja and Vrnjačka Banja, Kopaonik National Park as well as the ski-resort in the Kopaonik Mountain in southern Serbia are quite enjoyable. Palić, the summer resort is the centre for sport - recreation events. Zlatibor is a very famous mountainous tourist site and ski-resort in South-Western Serbia. The nightlife in Belgrade is full of youthfulness and its brightness. Belgrade is very famous for its whole-night-party clubs and entertainments.

Location: This beautiful country Serbia is located in the Balkans, in Southern Europe, surrounded by Montenegro, Albania to the south, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the west, Bulgaria to the southeast, Croatia to the northwest, Hungary to the north, Macedonia to the south, and Romania to the northeast.

History: The present day Serbia was once a conglomeration of many neighboring countries, which released themselves from this country's domination in course of line. Serbia was a country that was a founder and one of the six republics forming the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. The first Serbian state formed in the early 11th century. After the victory in the First World War, in 1918, victorious Serbia annexed Croatia, Slovenia, Slavonia, Dalmatia, Bosnia and Herzegowina, and Montenegrointo the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, Slovenes named the country Yugoslavia in 1929.

Slovenia, Croatia, and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia split from the Yugoslav Union in 1991. Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1992 and this led to frequent bloody civil war in Croatia and in Bosnia. The remaining republics of Serbia and Montenegro declared a new "Federal Republic of Yugoslavia" (FRY) in 1992. In 2002, the republics of Serbia and Montenegro began negotiations to forge a break, which led first to the name change of the nation to "Serbia and Montenegro", then culminated in Montenegro declaring independence in June 2006.

Some months back, Kosovo unilaterally declared its independence; however, this act remains unrecognized by Serbia and most of the other countries.

Climate: Generally Serbia's north has continental climate (cold winters and hot, humid summers with well-distributed rainfall). Moderate continental climate prevails in the central province. In the south, the climate is hot with dry summers and autumns and relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall.

To get in: The travelers coming from European Union countries have wide options in getting into Serbia. In addition, they do not need Visa. Likewise, Citizens of the USA, Canada and Australia do not need visas. Citizens of Bosnia need only ID. The main airport of Serbia is Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport, very near the Capital Belgrade. All the Major European airlines have flight connectivity with this historic nation. The Serbian national airline Jat Airways flies to all major cities in Europe, northern Africa and the Middle East.

Several International trains operated from Belgrade to Budapest and Vienna and to Zagreb-Ljubljana-München/Zurich. Good road connectivity is also there. Furthermore, you can reach Serbia via boat, which passes through Belgrade.

Before exploring the destinations and the sight seeing options of Serbia, we have to look in the facilities made available all along the capital city Belgrade.

Belgrade: The beautiful Belgrade has many unfolded mystery and attractions that still need to be explored. The Kalemegdan Fortress paints the importance of the two great rivers Danube and Sava. Once known as a battleground, it is now a peaceful retreat to all sorts of people from all walks of the world. Fully packed with cafés, museums, galleries, memorials, the planetarium, zoo, and lively people the city Belgrade can hardly slip our memory.

The south side of Belgrade is the seat of the city center, which houses national parliament, city hall, former royal residence and the skyline-dominating Beogradjanka. The world's largest Orthodox Church, St. Sava can be found just past that in a park along with the National Library.

Novi Sad: This city is known as the place for all amenities of city life with full of bright options of amusements and nightlife. In addition, the people who love art, music, food and fun, must prefer this city as there are more facilities for such things in and around Novi Sad. It has another name, "a haven of tranquility and tolerance" and offers many sightseeing spots and myriad restaurants.

Niš: The wonderful picnic spots of Serbia, Nis or Niska Banja is renowned for its richness of Spas. Some say it is the relaxation place for the philosophers and romantics. The korso down Ovrenoviceva, the main shopping street, visiting historical monuments, museums and archeological sites - Cela Kula, the Mediana and Cegar are places not to be missed. For your information, Nis was the birthplace of Roman Emperor Constantine, the Great.

Attractions:

Visoki Decani Museum: This museum seated at the foot of the Prokletje Mountains in the western province of Kosovo was built in the 14th century for the Serbian King Stefan Decanski. In a picturesque location with valley surrounded by mountains and the Bistrica River is really a feast to our eyes. It declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004.

Fruska Gora Monasteries: In the north of Serbia, on the lone mountain of Fruska Gora that rises up over the Vojvodina plains, many monasteries said to have been constructed in the late middle ages. Krusedol is one of the more significant monasteries on Fruska Gora, built by the 16th century ruler Djordje Brankovic. The monastery of Nov Hopovo is believed to have been built by the Brankovic family in the 16th century and is well hidden in Fruska Gora's forests. Despot Vuk Grgurevic, one of the great rulers of that period, reportedly built the 15th century Grgeteg monastery. Nicknamed "Dragon Fiery Wolf" he was also one of the military strategists of those days. This monastery was built as a refuge for his blind father, Grgur, who had become a monk earlier at Hilandar monastery.

The other monasteries such as Vrdnik Monastery, Jazak Monastery, Šišatovac Monastery do give us the tranquil effect whenever we visit there places of worship with devotion.

Cuisine: In general, Serbia has a wide variety of cuisines ranging from Kiflice the lovely little crescent rolls, Paprikas, the stew with paprika often with chicken, Gulas, stew with paprika with beef, Sarma, cabbage rolls. In addition, Gibanica, made from phillo pie with spinach and cheese or just cheese and Punjene Paprike - stuffed peppers, Pasulj - - beans- is a national specialty often cooked for a long time with onion and paprika.

Hotels: There are 295 hotels, 87 motels, 344 vacation complexes, mountains lodges and other accommodation facilities available in Serbia. Only the rates and dates may vary, but the hospitality shown and the respect given are worth mentioning.

General Tips:

Government; parliamentary democracy
Currency: Serbian Dinar (RSD)
Area: 88,361 sq km
Population: 9,778,991
Language: Serbian 90.1% (official), Hungarian 3.8%, Romany (Gypsy) 1.1%, other 4.1%, unknown 0.9% (2002 census)
Religion: Orthodox 65%, Muslim 19%, Roman Catholic 4%, Protestant 1%, others 11%
Phone Calling Code: +381
Important phone numbers:
Police: 92
Fire service: 93
Medical emergency: 94
Help on the road: 987
Internet TLD .rs (.yu to be used until end of 2009)
Time Zone UTC +1

Caution: The civil and ethnic war between the groups and government for several generations, some parts of this country is not fit for the traveler. So kindly check the details in advance are wise. Similar to the neighboring countries of Bosnia and Croatia, the foreigners are required to register themselves with the police station in their district within 24 hours of reaching Serbia. Registration is done automatically by hotel staff upon check-in, however if you are staying with friends in a private dwelling, you must register your presence with the police in the district in which you are staying.

Scotland

2009-01-17T00:20:00.001-08:00

Scotland

Although the great land Scotland is the province of United Kingdom, it has some individuality from the parent country United Kingdom. It has the separate constitution, separate currency notes, separate and special military and keeping its individuality in all forms from the United Kingdom’s other areas such as England, Wales and Irish.

This peninsular set up of land formation is surrounded by the seas, Ocean and channel. The Scotland is bounded by land in the south by south England. The other boundaries are, North sea in the north, the Atlantic Ocean in the north and west, North channel and Irish sea in the South west.

The capital of Scotland is Edinburgh, the largest city is Glasgow. In Scotland, we can see more than 100 castles and more than 750 small islands. This tiny state, which spreads 30 thousand miles in circumference, is famous for its castles, majority of them are well maintained and some are in its ruins.

According to the Census taken in 2001, the total population of Scotland is nearly 5 million. Of them, White Scottish are, 4,459,071 (88.09%), Other White British 373,685 (7.38%), other White background people 78,150 (1.54%)
White Irish 49,428 (0.98%), Pakistanis 31,793 (0.63%)
Chinese 16,310 (0.32%) Indians 15,037 (0.30%) and other ethnic groups are rest. Generally, the people of Scotland are afraid of Ghosts demons, Sorcerers. Now also we can hear the stories of that other beings with vivid and vigorously from the old people of Scotland. There is now also some laws, forbidding this practices.

History: Before 1707, Scotland was an independent state. By the Treaty of Union, Scotland annexed with Great Britain, then called United Kingdom. Its history dates back to 9500 years, the remains and remnants of the first building on Scottish soil around 9,500 years ago, and we have the missings of the first villages around 6,000 years ago. The well-preserved village of Skara Brae on the Mainland of Orkney dates from this period.

The history was written after the arrival of the Roman Empire in southern and central Great Britain. Roman invasions and occupations of southern Scotland were a series of brief interludes. In the Medieval period this land met many wars and occupations.

In 1603, James VI King of Scots inherited the throne of the Kingdom of England, and became King James I of England, and left Edinburgh for London. At that time, Scotland remained a separate state, but there was considerable conflict between the crown and the Covenanters over the form of church government. After the Glorious Revolution, the abolition of episcopacy and the overthrow of the Roman Catholic James VII by William and Mary, Scotland briefly threatened to select a different Protestant monarch from England. On 22 July 1706 the Treaty of Union was agreed between representatives of the Scots Parliament and the Parliament of England and the following year twin Acts of Union were passed by both parliaments to create the united Kingdom of Great Britain with effect from 1 May 1707.

Facts and Figures of Scotland:
Time zone GMT (UTC0)
- Summer (DST) BST (UTC+1)
Internet TLD .uk³
Calling code +44
Patron saint - St. Andrew
Currency – Pound Sterling

Climate: The climate of Scotland is temperate and oceanic, and tends to be changeable. When the Gulf streams flows from Atlantic, there was warm. Temperatures are generally lower than in the rest of the UK. The west of Scotland is usually warmer than the east, owing to the influence of Atlantic ocean currents and the colder surface temperatures of the North Sea. Rainfall varies widely across Scotland. The western highlands of Scotland are the wettest place, with annual rainfall exceeding 3,000 mm (120 in). Heavy snowfall is not common in the lowlands, but becomes more common with altitude.

Air ways: Scotland has many more Airports for the arrival and departure of the International and domestic people all along this land. Aberdeen Airport is has direct flights from All major cities of Europe such as Copenhagen, Dublin, Malaga, Murcia, Oslo and Paris. The Edinburgh Airport, has direct flights from Alicante, Amsterdam, Atlanta, Avignon, Barcelona, Brussels, Copenhagen, Faro, Frankfurt, Galway, Milan, Munich, Murcia, New York, Nice, Oslo, Palma de Mallorca, Paris, Pisa, Poznan, Prague, Pula, Rennes, Rome, Shannon, Sharm el Sheikh, Stockholm, Szczecin, Tenerife, Toronto, Toulouse, Warsaw, Zurich and so on.

Glasgow International Airport, has direct flights from Alicante, Amsterdam, Athens, Barcelona, Belfast, Berlin, Bourgas, Calgary, Copenhagen, Dominican Republic, Dubai, Dublin, Faro, Geneva, Gran Canaria, Halifax, Heraklion, Las Vegas, Madeira, Malta, New York (Newark), Nice, Orlando, Ottawa, Palma de Mallorca, Paris, Philadelphia, Prague, Pula, Reykjavík, Sharm el Sheikh, Tenerife, Toronto and Vancouver.

Glasgow Prestwick International Airport, is a hub of budget airline Ryanair with domestic flights to London Stansted and Bournemouth; and international flights to Brussels, Bergamo, Budapest, Cork, Dublin, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Girona, Gothenburg, Hamburg, Kaunas, Krakow, Milan, Murcia, Oslo (Torp), Paris, Pisa, Reus, Riga, Rome, Shannon, Stockholm and Wroclaw. Inverness Airport, has direct flights from Dublin.

There are many UK domestic flights operating to Scotland including: bmi flights from London Heathrow, Manchester, Leeds-Bradford, and Norwich. bmibaby flights from Birmingham, Cardiff and Nottingham East Midlands. British Airways flights from London (Heathrow, Gatwick and City).

Eastern Airways flights from Birmingham, Durham Tees Valley, Humberside, Leeds-Bradford, Manchester, Newcastle, Norwich, Nottingham East Midlands, and Southampton. Easyjet flights from London Gatwick, London Luton, London Stansted, Bristol, and Belfast. Flybe flights from Belfast, Birmingham, Exeter, Jersey, Manchester, Newquay, Norwich and Southmapton.

Ryanair flights from Bournemouth, Liverpool, and London Stansted. Scotairways flights from London City.
Fly Whoosh flights from Belfast and Birmingham.

Travel Destinations of Scotland: Nearly 10,000 years history of Scotland can be witnessed through its marvelous buildings, ancient museums, historic and pre historic monuments, sky touching cathedrals and its serenity, more than 100 well preserved castles all along the Scotland are all telling the tourists this land’s history and its culture and specialties.

Glasgow Cathedral: This is being the example of pre-reformation Gothic architecture. The first building was consecrated in 1136, in the presence of King David I, but it burned down in 1197 and was rebuilt as the lower church.
The most interesting part of the cathedral, the lower church, is reached by a stairway. Its forest of pillars creates a powerful atmosphere around Saint Mungo's tomb. Opens on Apr-Sep: Mon-Sat 09:30 - 18:00 , Sun 13:00 - 17:00 ; Oct-Mar: Mon-Sat 09:30 - 16:00 , Sun 13:00 - 16:00.

Museum of Edinburgh: The Museum of Edinburgh is a museum in Edinburgh, depicting the town's origins, history and legends. Situated in a house on the Royal Mile, it is maintained by Edinburgh City Council. It was built in 1570, Huntly House is home to the Museum of Edinburgh, which covers the city's history from prehistory to the present. Exhibits of national importance include an original copy of the National Covenant of 1638.

Staffa Island: It is the national Trust of Scotland, uninhabited Staffa Island is one of Scotland's - and perhaps the world's - truly awesome natural phenomenons. Here we can witness the immense hexagonal basalt pillars loom out of the sea to form a series of cathedralesque caverns, the most notable of which is the stunning Fingal's Cave, which pushes up out of the sea like a grand pipe organ.

Castles: There are more than 100 small, medium and vast castles are situated all along and every corners of Scotland. Which are all telling the real stories of the Scotlandians. There are different type of tourist facilities to see the castles of Scotland.

Activities in Scotland: There are many energetic activities are waiting for the tourists. The 750 islands and islets are the wonderful places for the beach lovers. Honey moon trip, vacation tour to the beaches will be the great experiences for the tourists.

And more, driving. we can get a full look of Scotland. Scotland has some of the best motorcycle touring roads in the world. Good weather, good surfaces and good people allow you to explore this wonderful place as unfaded memory in all the ages. Scotland is famous for hill walking. We can try to climb all 284. Munros of Scotland (which are mountains higher than 3000 feet / 914.4 m) and become a Munroist. The other item in Scotland is Whisky Tour - Many of Scotland's distilleries welcome visitors and many have guided tours. This type of tourism is available only some places of the world.
Culture: Scotland has rich and strong culture, one of which its people are fiercely proud. Scotland has a great tradition of festivals, art and literature. It has produced some of the greatest literary personalities, actors and writers of the world. Irvine Welsh has made a heavy impact on the international literary scene and the prestigious Edinburgh Festival is a hotspot on international arts calendars.
Scotland has also produced some of the greatest scientists of the world including the inventors of the television, telephone and penicillin. It was Scottish scientists who invented Dolly, the cloned sheep. Scotland is known the world over for some of its seafood, vegetables and more specifically its Beef - Aberdeen Angus.
Cuisine: Due to the inflow of foreign nationals in the Scotland, now we can get different types of Asian, African and all continental food items here. Of them, the traditional Scotland foods can be get in all hotels and restaurants in the cities of Scotland.

One of the familiar cuisine of Scotland is Cullen Skink - A hearty and delicious fish soup made from smoked haddock, potatoes, cream, and shellfish. It is the quite example for the great taste of Scotland Seafood produces. Its langoustines, oysters, scallops, crabs, salmon and lobsters are prized by the finest chefs all over the world. These cooked items are exported to the nations widely.
Sizzling Sirloin of Scotch Beef- The five best beef breeds in the world are Scottish, the best-known being Aberdeen Angus. The others are Highland, Longhorn, Shorthorn and Galloway.
Game- Scotland has game aplenty, from pheasants to venison. An inexpensive Highland autumn favorite is pheasant layered with a few strips of bacon and baked with seasonal vegetables.
Haggis - Scotland's national dish does sounds quite disgusting to foreigners because of its ingredients. Haggis is another one, made up of chopped heart, liver and lungs of a sheep and then cooked in a sheep's stomach bag. It is served with turnips and mashed potatoes. Porridge is an oat meal the Scottish eat at breakfast, usually with salt as topping, although it is not the everyday breakfast anymore.

The square sausage another common breakfast favorite. It is a flavored thin square of beef (steak sausage) or pork (Lorne sausage), fried or grilled, often served in a roll.
Scotch Pie is a much-loved local delicacy, containing mutton.

Scotch tablet is another local delicacy. It is, very similar to fudge - but is slightly brittle due to its being beaten for a time while it sets.

Pyongyang

2009-01-17T00:19:00.000-08:00

Pyongyang

The capital and largest city of North Korea, in the southwest-central part of the country. It is capital of North Korea, on the Taedong River. Founded in 1122 BC according to legend, it is said to be the oldest city in Korea. Is a major industrial center; products include iron and steel, machinery, armaments, aircraft, textiles, sugar, rubber, ceramics and various light manufactures.

History

Around 108 BC the Chinese established a trading colony there. It was then the capital of the Koguryo kingdom. It fell to the Japanese in 1592 and was devastated by the Manchus in the early 17th century. Much of it was destroyed during the Sino-Japanese War (1894 – 95). During the Japanese occupation of Korea (1910 – 45), it was built up as an industrial city. Captured by UN forces during the Korean War in 1950, it was retaken by Chinese communist troops. After 1953 it was rebuilt with Soviet and Chinese aid.

Only six gates remain of Pyongyang's former great walls. Other landmarks include three tombs (1st cent. B.C.) with remarkable murals, several old Buddhist temples, and the Grand Theatre. Pyongyang is home to many museums, libraries, theatres, and universities. Moran-bong Stadium plays an important part in the city's role as a show place for the nationalistic spectacles of the North Korean government.

Landmarks

The capital has been completely rebuilt after the Korean War (1950–1953). It is designed with wide avenues, imposing monuments and monolithic buildings. The tallest structure in the city is the uncompleted 1,082 foot (330 m) Ryugyŏng Hotel. This hotel has 105 floors, encloses 3.9 million square feet (360,000 m²) of floor space, and was planned to be topped by seven revolving restaurants.
However, construction has been stalled since the early 1990s and the building
stands as an empty shell.

Some notable landmarks in the city include the Kumsusan Memorial Palace, the
Arch of Triumph (heavily inspired by Paris's Arc de Triomphe but of a larger size), the reputed birthplace of Kim Il-sung at Mangyongdae Hill, Juche Tower and two of the world's largest stadiums (Kim Il Sung Stadium and Rungnado May Day Stadium). Pyongyang TV Tower is a minor landmark. Other visitor attractions include the Korea Central Zoo and the large golden statues of North Korea's two leaders.

The important sight seeings of Pyongyang

The Ryugyong Hotel: The 105 storey building is a partially constructed concrete skyscraper that was once intended for use as a hotel in Sojang-dong, in the Potong-gang District of Pyongyang, North Korea. The hotel's name comes from one of the historic names for Pyongyang: Ryugyong, or "capital of willows." Its 105 stories rise to a height of 330 m (1,083 ft), and it boasts some 3.9 million square feet of floor space, making it the most prominent feature of the city’s skyline and by far the largest structure in the country. Construction started in 1987 and ceased in 1992. Had it been completed, it would have been the world's tallest hotel.

The Kumsusan Memorial Palace: The Kumsusan Memorial Palace, sometimes
referred to as the Kim Il Sung Mausoleum, is a large building located northeast of
downtown Pyongyang, the capital city of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea
(North Korea). The palace is claimed to have been the former official residence and
office of North Korea's president and founder, "Great Leader" Kim Il-sung. Following
Kim's death in 1994, it is said that his son and successor, Kim Jong-il, had the
building renovated and transformed into his father's final resting place. Deep inside
the vast palace, the Great Leader's embalmed body lies viewable in state inside a
clear sarcophagus.
The palace is situated in a secluded area in Pyongyang and is only accessible to
foreigners on official government tours. It is fronted by a massive square and is
bordered on its northern and eastern sides by a moat.

The arch of triumph: The Arch of Triumph in Pyongyang was built to commemorate
the Korean resistance to Japan from 1925 to 1945. Built in 1982 on the Triumph Return Square at the foot of Moran Hill in the North Korean capital city of Pyongyang, the monument was built to honour and glorify President Kim Il Sung's role in the resistance against Japanese rule. The structure is modelled after the Arc de Triomphe and was deliberately built to be slightly larger than the one in Paris. It is the world's tallest arch of triumph. Standing sixty meters high and fifty meters wide. The Arch of Triumph is a stone edifice piled up with over 10,500 pieces of finely-dressed white granite.

The arch has dozens of rooms, balustrades, observation platforms and elevators. It also has four vaulted gateways, each twenty-seven metres high, decorated with azalea carved in their girth. Inscribed in the Arch is the "Song of General Kim Il Sung", a revolutionary hymn, and the year 1925, when North Korean history states that Kim set out on the journey for national liberation and the year 1945, the end of World War II, which ended the Japanese occupation.

The Juche Tower: The Juche Tower (officially the Tower of Juche Idea) is monument in Pyongyang, North Korea. Completed in 1982. It is located on the eastern bank of the River Taedong, opposite Kim Il Sung Square. It was made to commemorate Kim Il Sung's 70th birthday. It is claimed that it was designed by Kim Jong-il. The 170 metre (560') structure is a four sided tapering 150 metre spire (the tallest one in granite) containing 25,550 blocks (365 × 70, one for each day of Kim Il Sung's life, excluding supplementary days), dressed in white stone with seventy dividers and capped with a 20 metre high, 45 ton, illuminated metal torch. It is possible to ascend the tower. It is reported that the tower was built in 35 days and was dressed in 76 days.

Associated with the tower is a 30 metre high statue consisting of three figures—one
with a hammer, one with a sickle and one with a writing brush (an idealised worker, a peasant and a "working intellectual"). There are six smaller groups, each 10 metres high, symbolizing other aspects of Kim Il Sung's ideology. The tower is named after the principle of Juche, developed by Kim Il Sung as a blend
of autarky, self-reliance, Korean traditionalism, and socialism.

Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum: The Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum is a fascinating place. The key battles of the Korean War are depicted vividly in dioramas, and there's some fascinating military hardware from war-damaged tanks and aircraft to torpedo boats used by both sides. These were all placed in the basement and the museum was then built around them.

Kim Il-Sung Stadium: Kim Il-Sung Stadium is a very large stadium located in
Pyongyang. Originally the "Kirim Stadium," a baseball field built during the Japanese occupation. Rebuilt in 1969, it was then called Moranbong Stadium, but in 1982 it was renovated and renamed in honour of Kim Il-Sung. The stadium's capacity is 70,000, though there has been attendances of over 1,00,000.It is used mainly for soccer matches.

The Rungnado May First Stadium: The Rungnado May First Stadium, or May Day
Stadium, is a monumental stadium in Pyongyang, North Korea, completed on May 1,
1989. Its names come from Rungra Island in the Taedong River, upon which it is
situated, and May Day, the international day celebrating labour and particularly
celebrated among communists. Its scalloped roof features 16 arches arranged in a
ring, and it is said to resemble a parachute. The stadium can seat 150,000 for events on a main pitch sprawling across over 22,500 m² (242,200 ft²). Its total floor space is over 207,000 m² across eight stories, and the lobes of its roof peak at more than 60 m (197 ft) from the ground. It is more than double the size of the Olympic Stadium in Seoul, South korea.

While the stadium is used for sporting events, it is more famous as the site of
massive parades and shows celebrating Kim Il-Sung and the Korean nation. In May of 2002 it was the site of the colossal and meticulously choreographed "Arirang"
gymnastic and artistic performance in honor of Kim Jong-il's 60th birthday. It was rare to open to foreigners. At the end of the 1990s, a number of North Korean army generals were executed by being burned alive in the stadium.

The Korea Central Zoo: The Korea Central Zoo, also referred to as the Pyongyang
Central Zoo, is the national zoo of North Korea. It is located near Mt. Taesong in
suburban Pyongyang. The zoo has over 5,000 animals, comprising a total of 650
species, and covers an area of roughly one square kilometre. It was established in
April 1959 at the instruction of Kim Il-sung. Elephants at the zoo are said to be one of the chief attractions; all the elephants are descended from the family of a single "hero elephant" given to Kim Il-sung by Ho Chi Minh in 1959. From 2001, the zoo kept a variety of non-indigeneous species of animals, including 400 given as gifts by heads of state and other foreign citizens

The city also has regular international train services to Beijing and Moscow. A
journey to Beijing takes about 25 hours and a journey to Moscow takes 6 days.

Hotels:
1.Yanggakdo Hotel
Yanggak, Pyongyang
2.Diplomatic Club
City Centre, Pyongyang
3.Pyongyang International Cinema
Yanggak, Pyongyang
4.Koryo Hotel
City Centre, Pyongyang
5.Potonggang Hotel
City Centre, Pyongyang
6.Karaoke & Pool
City Centre, Pyongyang
7.souvenir shops
8.Korea Stamp
City Centre, Pyongyang
9.book shops
City Centre, Pyongyang
10.Pyulmori

Port Moresby

2009-01-17T00:18:00.000-08:00

Port Moresby

Port Moresby is the capital and largest city of Papua New Guinea (PNG). The
city is located on the shores of the Gulf of Papua, on the southeastern coast of the island of New Guinea. It was first sighted by a European in 1873 by Captain John Moresby. It was named in honour of his father Admiral Sir Fairfax Moresby. He called the inner reach "Fairfax Harbour" and the other Port Moresby. British New Guinea was passed to the newly established Commonwealth of Australia in 1906, and became known as Papua.

During World War II, the city was home to an important Allied base. The military of Allied forces stationed here. In 1945, the Territory of Papua and New Guinea was formed when Papua and the former German New Guinea, which had been administered by Australia since 1918, were amalgamated under a single Australian Administration.

In September 1975, Port Moresby became capital city of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea. New government buildings were constructed at Waigani, including a spectacular National Parliament Building, which opened in 1984 and blends traditional design with modern building technology.

In 2004, Port Moresby was ranked the worst capital city in the world to live in
the Economist Intelligence Unit's ranking of 130 of the world's capital cities. High levels of rape, robbery and murder and large areas of the city controlled by gangs of thugs, known locally as "rascals" (Tok Pisin raskol), were cited. According to a 2004 article in the Guardian newspaper, unemployment rates are estimated to be between 60 and 90% and murder rates three times that of Moscow and 23 times the rate in London.

Airport: Port Moresby has Jacksons International Airport, which is the biggest international airport and Air Force base in the country. Air Niugini and Airlines PNG are rendering many other local and international airlines services. Jacksons is being served internationally by flights to Brisbane, Cairns, Sydney, Honiara, Nadi, Manila, Singapore, Hong Kong and Tokyo.

Places of attractions

Ela Beach: On the southern side of Town is the long, sandy stretch of Ela Beach. This beach is famous for sun bath. But the sea is not fit for swimming. The shallow water, thick seaweed and black, spiny and painful sea urchins are the dangers.

Ela United Church: The oldest building still standing is the Ela United Church, opened by the London Missionary Society in 1890.

Koki Market: It is situated on the eastern end of Ela Beach. One of the oldest and, after a vast improvement in security, safest markets in the city. Fresh fish can be get here.

National Museum: It is located just beyond to the Parliament Haus, sit under a fine film of dust. But you can happily spend an hour or so looking at the displays that cover the geography, fauna, culture, ethnography and history of PNG. There are superb examples of masks, shields and totems, a magnificent Milne Bay outrigger canoe decorated in cowrie shells, and a display showing how bilums are made.

Paga Point: The harbour headland, Paga Point is adjacent to Town. It's worth walking to the top of Paga Hill for the fine views over the town, the harbour and the encircling reefs.

Old Parliament Building: The Old Parliament Building was never an architectural wonder, but its opening as the House of Assembly in 1964 was a significant milestone on PNG's road to independence.

Hanuabada: Past the docks to the north lies Hanuabada, the original Motu village. Although it is still built over the sea on stilts, the original wood and thatched houses were destroyed by fire during WWII. It's an interesting place and the people have retained many traditional Motu customs.

Owen Stanley Range:The Owen Stanley Range forms the backbone of the southeastern tip of New Guinea. The highest peak is Mount Victoria. The mountains are covered in rainforest and are the source of several rivers.
The range was named after a British explorer who visited the coast of New
Guinea in the 1840s. In 1942 Japanese forces began to march across the
range in an attempt to capture Port Moresby, but they were turned back by
Allied troops. This was Japan’s first land defeat of World War II.

The Kokoda Trail: This 60-mile trail, leading from the Port Moresby area
up into the Owen Stanley Range, was first used by gold miners in the
1890's. It is best and most notoriously known, however, as the site of bloody
fighting during World War Two, when Japanese forces, attempting to invade.Trek through swamp and marshy ground, cross rivers spanned by log bridges and causeways, climb through rugged country, endlessly climbing and plugging, enjoy remarkable panoramas. Stop at villages and get to know the locals, always eager to talk to visitors. The walk ends at the village of
Kokoda. Kokoda was defended by the Australians on a tongue like plateau
which overlooks the land below. On this plateau are a number of memorials
and a small museum. All travel on the Kokoda Trail is hard, but the journey can be organised into sections which are manageable by persons of good health and average "jogger" fitness.

Hotels in Port Moresby

Airways Hotel (Airport)
Ambers Inn
Ela Beach Hotel
Gateway Hotel (Airport)
Islander Travelodge
Loloata Island Resort
Port Moresby Travelodge

Phuket

2009-01-17T00:17:00.000-08:00

Phuket

The Island city. Province of Thailand, in the Andaman Sea, off the west coast of the Malay Peninsula. The town of Phuket is the capital. Flat, with isolated hills, the island was one of Thailand's chief tin-mining regions, but now resort tourism is the main industry. Phuket also produces rubber, coconuts, and pepper. The population is mainly Chinese and Thai. Phuket town was founded in the 1st cent. B.C. by colonists from India. European merchants began trading there in the 16th cent. The island, contested by the Siamese and the Burmese during their 18th-century wars, was finally incorporated into Thailand in the 19th century. In 1980s and 1990s it experienced rapid development as tourism expanded. Parts of the island's coast were devastated by the 26th December 2004, Indian Ocean tsunami.

Beaches

The most popular tourist areas on Phuket is Patong Beach on the central western coast. Most of Phuket's nightlife and its cheap shopping is located in Patong, and the area has become increasingly developed. Patong means "the forest filled with banana leaves" in Thai. Other popular beaches are located south of Patong. In a counter clockwise direction these include Karon Beach, Kata Beach, Kata Noi Beach, and around the southern tip of the island, Nai Harn Beach and Bang Tao Beach. There are several coral islands to the south of Phuket, the Similan Islands lie to the north west, and Phi Phi Islands to the south east. All the islands are suitable for diving.

Parks & Waterfalls in Phuket

Phuket's natural beauty lies in its beaches and also in its parks and water falls. We can see some of the important parks here:

Khao Phra Thaeo National Park: It is Located in the north of Phuket, this park contains the only remaining virgin rainforest on the island. The park conserves a number of species of wild animal: langurs, barking deer, mouse deer, bears, wild boar, monkeys and gibbons. About one hundred species of bird also inhabit the forest vegetation, which consists of huge trees, creepers and climbers of every description.

Bang Pae Waterfall: It is a small cascade, although this is Phuket's largest waterfall. You can get to Bang Pae by road by taking the exit heading east (Paklok Road) from the Heroines' Monument on Thepkasattri Road, north of Phuket City. Bang Pae is also home to the Phuket Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre, an NGO run project which adopts gibbons in captivity and returns them to the wild.

Ton Sai Waterfall: Located near the park headquarters at the entrance to the park, this waterfall is not very big but quite scenic.

Sirinat Marine National Park: This relatively new protected area includes the beaches of Nai Thon, Nai Yang and Mai Kao and combines the former Nai Yang National Park with a wildlife reserve at Mai Kao. The beaches within the park are a nesting site for four endangered species of leatherback turtle which come here to lay eggs between November and February each year.

There is a Park Visitors Centre at the northern end of Nai Yang, which has interesting displays of corals and shells, as well as other marine and land fauna. The park boundary extends 5kms out to sea and includes some quite diverse coral reefs which are popular with divers and snorkellers. The reefs are located about 700-1000m from the shore at Nai Yang and are found in water between 4 - 7m deep.

Mangrove Forest: Located at the northern end of Mai Kao, near a park office, the mangrove forest covers a total area of approximately 1 sq. km. Although it only occupies a small area, this is the most unspoilt mangrove forest on the island.
There are many unusual perennial plants found here: mountain ebony, red cycas, black myrsina, the Lady's Nails quisqualis, and various creepers and climbers.

Kathu Waterfall: The waterfall at Kathu is really quite small but can be pleasant for a swim. This waterfall is located between Phuket City and Patong, not far from the cable water ski park and Loch Palm Golf Club.

Worship sites

Wat Chalong: This is Phuket's important Buddhist temple. The prayer hall contains the statues of three of the temples most venerated monks: Luang Por Chaem, Luang Por Chuang and Luang Por Gluam. However, it is Luang Por Chaem who is best known and who has given Wat Chalong its fame as a place of healing.

Wat Phra Nang Sang: The oldest Buddhist temple on Phuket is Wat Phra Nang Sang. It was built when Thalang was still the capital of the island. The grounds of this historic temple are where the Battle of Thalang took place in 1785, when the local people fought off Burmese invaders. The temple is referred to as the “Temple of the White Blood”. Because of a woman who according to folklore, bled white blood when she was cut. The ordination hall is dedicated to her.

Wat Phra Tong: This is the second most important temple on Phuket. Its fame is derived from a magic statue of the Buddha (Phra Tong means “golden Buddha”). The statue is in a seated position but is only exposed up to the middle of the chest. Though claimed to be made of solid gold, the statue is more likely made of brick, cement and plaster, with a thin layer of gold leaf covering it.

Chinese Shrines: There are quite a few Daoist shrines dotted around the island, particularly in Phuket City. One of the most important shrines is Put Jaw Temple, which is dedicated to the Daoist goddess Kuan Yin, the Daoist Goddess of Mercy. The recently renovated temple is actually over 200 years old. The shrine is located on Ranong Road in the centre of the city. Right next door is another of Phuket's Chinese shrines, Jui Tui Temple. Dedicated to the vegetarian god Kiu Wong, the shrine is the centre for many of the activities during the Vegetarian Festival.

Island Activities

Boatings: Phuket Island itself has beautiful beaches and a huge range of activities and entertainment.

Phang Nga Bay: Phang Nga Bay is incredibly scenic with limestone islands rising out if the sea. Highlights include: Panak and Hong Islands, surrounded with sheer cliffs and mangrove forests; Tapu Island and Pingkan Island, which featured in the James Bond film "The Man with the Golden Gun"; and the muslim fishing village at Panyi Island where the houses are built on stilts over the sea.

Phi Phi Island: The fastest and safety way to Phi Phi island is by speed boat. Visit Phi Phi Ley which has stunning beautiful bays, Ao Pileh and Ao Lohsama. Stop at Ao Maya for snorkelling and swimming. Visit the "Viking" cave with cave paintings of sail boats, which look similar to Viking ships.

Richy Island: Richy Island, locally known as Koh Rang Yai, is a small private island 10 minutes speed boat ride from the Boat Lagoon Marina, on the east coast of Phuket. This island does not have any accommodation at present, though there are wide range of activities. Such as snorkelling, mini golf, darts, mountain biking, sea kayaking, volleyball and of course sun bathing. There is also a pearl farm on the island. Here we can get demonstrations of pearl culturing and harvesting.

Similan Islands: The beautiful sandy beaches, smooth granite boulders which tumble down into the sea and emerald water with an abundance of marine life are the identifications of Similan Islands. This group of eight islands lie to the northwest of Phuket, in a national marine park which is only open from November to April. The area contains a rich bio-diversity which includes the largest fish in the world, the Whale Shark. The Similan Islands are rated amongst the 10 best diving sites in the world

Racha Islands: The Racha Islands, also known as the Raya Islands, are among the most visited scuba diving sites in the vicinity of Phuket. The waters surrounding the islands are also a favourite spot for snorkelling.

Coral Island: we can get Coral Islands by 20 minutes boating. Coral Island is encircled by reefs and crystal clear water which is perfect for water sports such as para-sailing, snorkeling, water-skiing, sailing and scuba diving.

Krabi Bay: In the south from Phang Nga Bay is Krabi Bay. The limestone karst features that Phang Nga is so famous for are also found here in abundance. Tall limestone outcrops tower out of the sea forming spectacular islands. There are also many beautiful stalactite formations and caves, such as at Phra Nang Beach, where you can swim in the sea with stalactites hanging directly over your head.

Canoeing and Canoe

Sea canoeing here in Phuket is enjoyable in one of the world's most beautiful and dramatic landscapes. Phang Nga Bay is famous for its fascinating and beautiful limestone karst islands and caves. It's no accident that two James Bond films have been filmed here. The experience of being paddled through dark but glittering caves and emergine into the cliff-lined lagoons, known as hongs, is an experience not to be missed during your time in Phuket.

Elephant Trekking

The children may enjoy the elegant elephant trekking. There are numerous elephant camps around Phuket that provide an opportunity to ride on an elephant along a trail through jungle and rubber plantations. Most of these elephant safaris are relatively short, 30 mins to 1 hour, though you do get to take in a lot of the natural surroundings on your way. Therefore, most elephant treks will also involve a ride on bamboo rafts or buffalo cart as well.

Spas

In Phuket, we can get many types of spas that cater to the individual’s needs and desires. Each spa is a unique haven of relaxation and tranquility, offering varying comforts in different environments. Treatments and packages offered by various spas, particularly the independent and hotel / resort spas, are individual and specialized - a wide range of soothing and healing therapies can be chosen from a menu. Natural health care products made from local herbs, fruits and oils may be used in various treatments - aromatherapy massages, body scrubs and facials are just a few.

There are many spas in Phuket. We can have some of them:
Phuket Spas, Anda Spa, Body & Mind DaySpa, Deevana Spa, Leelavadee Spa
Morradok Spa, Perfection Spa & Beauty Salon, Raya Spa, Secret Garden Retreat,
The Sense Spa, The Solitude Spa, Spa Varee, Strelitzia Spa, Tew Son Spa, Zi Spa,
Krabi Spas, Montra Spa.

Shopping

The roadside stalls and markets there are quite a few shopping centres and department stores, as well as a good selection of boutiques and speciality shops. Traditional handicrafts, textiles, gems, jewellery and antiques, as well as clothing and everyday items are sold all over the island. There are plenty of shops and stalls to be found in beach areas such as Kata and Karon.

Scuba Diving

Phuket ranks as one of the world's top ten dive destinations, and with good reason. The water is warm and teeming with marine life. Phuket possesses an abundance of dive companies, all ready to give you accredited instruction, provide equipment for hire, and take you on day trips or extended trips to more distant dive spots. Diving in Phuket's clear blue waters is best from November through to May, when the calm seas and rain free days make diving here an extraordinary experience. However, monsoon winds and surface swells in the Andaman Sea during the rainy season, running from late May to October, can make remote spots inaccessible.

Diving

Phuket is a great place to take diving courses. Ranging from short introductory courses, which include a sample dive, to dive master programs, there is something to suit every skill level.

Live aboards

Liveaboard trips can range from two to ten days and travel to dive sites as far away as India's Andaman Islands. Other favoured destinations are the renowned Similan Islands, the Surin Islands and the Burma Banks.

Dive Boats

Dive boats vary in style and level of comfort dramatically. It really depends on the company you book with. Cheaper prices will usually mean more crowded boats. At the lower end of the budget scale, liveaboards may provide sleeping quarters in one big cabin or even on deck. At the higher end of the scale liveaboard boats may possess large, private air-conditioned cabins with ensuite bathrooms, dedicated photo areas, film processing and editing facilities and many other amenities.

Water Skiing & Wakeboarding

There are many facilities for water skiing and wakeboarding in Phuket’s waters. During the dry season, Phuket's waters are ideal for water skiing. Most of the main beaches such as Patong have speedboat operators that hire their boats and equipment for water skiing.

Cable Skiing

Situated in Kathu is Phuket Water-Ski Cableways, an artificial lake with an overhead cable that tows skiers and wakeboarders round a rectangular course. Cable skiing is slightly more difficult than skiing behind a boat but great fun and can be enjoyed in any weather.

Surfing

The following places are having the Surfing facilities:
Surin Beach, Kamala Beach, Kalim, Patong, Karon, Kata, Nai Harn.

Snorkelling

Snorkeling can be enjoyed by simply hiring a mask, snorkel and fins from a nearby dive shop and swimming out to one of the reefs on Phuket's west coast. The area between Koh Pu and Kata Beach is one of the best snorkeling spots that you can get to without a boat. Other beaches with good reefs include: Kata Noi and Laem Singh. Paradise Beach and Freedom Beach are also worth considering, and are only a short longtail boat ride from Patong.

Fishing

Phuket has been gaining an international reputation for game fishing. The surrounding waters of the Andaman Sea and the now famous Drop Off, west of Phuket, are home to some of the world's most prized game fish.The fish-rich waters of the Andaman Sea offer exceptional fishing for Wahoo, Dorado, Barracuda, Giant Trevally, Rainbow Runner, King Mackerel, Cobia, Queenfish, numerous species of Tuna, several species of Shark and one of the most sought-after gamefish – the Black Marlin.

Cabaret

This popular tourist attraction, on the hill just outside Patong, has been wowing audiences for years with its exotic, hilarious, often risqué, transvestite cabaret.
The show features a spectacular musical floor show performed by the famous "lady boys" of Simon Cabaret.

General guidelines for the tourists

Phuket is generally a safe place to visit. Violent crime is much less common. Petty thefts, in the form of pickpocketing in busy areas or thefts from
hotel rooms. Credit card fraud is an increasing problem in Thailand. Keep your cards safe and only use them at reputable establishments. To report a lost or stolen credit
card. Most Tourist Police officers speak English and have a lot of experience in
dealing with foreigners.

There has been an increased threat from terrorism in Thailand's southern most
provinces of Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat, where there have been a number of
bombings and clashes between security forces and separatist rebels.

It is important to dress and behave correctly when visiting a Buddhist temple in
Thailand. You should not wear beach clothes to a temple. Even though you might
be baking from the heat, shorts and sleeveless tops should not be worn. Shoes
should be removed before entering any building containing a Buddha image. Women
should not touch monks or hand anything directly to a monk.

Foreigners are welcome to visit mosques as long as there isn't a religious
ceremony taking place. However, you must dress appropriately. You should remove your shoes before entering, men should wear a hat while women should cover their heads with a shawl or scarf.

Hotels

Absolute Sea Pearl Beach Resort Patong
Access Pool Resort & Spa Karon
Allamanda Laguna Phuket Laguna-Bang Tao
Amanpuri Hotel Phuket Pansea
Amari Coral Beach Resort Patong
Amora Beach Resort PhuketLaguna-Bang Tao
Andaman Beach Suites Patong
Andaman White Beach ResortMai Kao-Nai Yang
Andatel Patong Hotel Patong
Aquamarine Resort & Villa Kamala
Aspasia Phuket Kata
At Panta Phuket Laguna-Bang Tao
Aura Resort & SpaMai Kao-Nai Yang
Avantika Boutique Hotel Patong
Ayara Hilltops Resort and Spa Surin
Baan Laimai Beach Resort Patong
Baan Mai CottagesIslands Nearby
Baan Nern Sai Resort Patong
Baan Yin Dee Boutique Resort Patong
Ban Raya ResortIslands Nearby
Banthai Beach Resort & Spa Patong
Banyan Tree Phuket Laguna-Bang Tao
Baumanburi Resort & Spa Patong
Benyada Lodge Surin
Best Western Phuket Ocean Resort Karon
Boat Lagoon Resort Phuket City
Bundarika Resort Spa & VillaLaguna-Bang Tao
Burasari Resort Patong
By The Sea Residence Phuket Cape Panwa
C.C Bloom's Hotel Karon
Cape Panwa Hotel Cape Panwa
Centara Karon Resort Karon
Centara Kata Resort Kata
Chedi Phuket Pansea
Club Andaman Beach Resort Patong
Club Bamboo Patong
Coconut Village Resort Patong
Coral Island Resort Islands Nearby
Deevana Resort & Spa Patong
Diamond Cliff Resort & Spa Patong
Diamond Cottage Resort & Spa Karon
Duangjitt Resort Patong
Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket Resort Laguna-Bang Tao
Evason Phuket Resort & Six Senses Spa Nai Harn-Rawai
Front VillageKaron
Hilton Arcadia Phuket Resort & SpaKaron
Horizon Karon Beach Resort & SpaKaron
Horizon Patong Beach Resort & SpaPatong
Hyton Leelavadee Resort Patong
Impiana Phuket Cabana Resort Patong
Indigo Pearl Hotel Mai Kao-Nai Yang
iPavilion Phuket Hotel Phuket City
JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa Mai Kao-Nai Yang
Kamala Bay Garden Resort Kamala
Karon Sea Sands Resort Karon
Karon View Resort Karon
Karon Whale Resort Karon
Karona Resort & Spa Karon
Kata Beach Resort Kata
Kata Minta Kata
Kata Palm Resort & SpaKata
Kata Poolside Resort Kata
Katathani Phuket Beach Resort Kata
Laguna Beach ResortLaguna-Bang Tao
Layan Beach Resort & Spa Village Laguna-Bang Tao
Leelawadee Boutique Resort Patong
Manathai Hotel & Resort Surin
Mangosteen Resort & Spa Nai Harn-Rawai
Marina Phuket Resort Karon
Merlin Beach Resort Patong
Moevenpick Karon Beach Resort & Spa Karon
Mom Tri's Boathouse Kata
Mom Tri's Villa Royale Phuket Kata
Montana Grand Phuket Hote lPatong
Nai Yang Beach Resort Mai Kao-Nai Yang
Naithonburi Beach Resort Mai Kao-Nai Yang
Old Phuket Hotel Karon
Orchid Hotel & Spa Kalim Bay Patong
Orchidacea ResortKata
Patong Bay Garden Resort Patong
Patong Bayshore Hotel Patong
Patong Cottage Resort Patong
Patong Green Mountain Hotel Patong
Patong Lodge Patong
Patong Merlin Hotel Patong
Patong Pearl Resortel Patong
Patong Premier Resort Patong
Patong Resort Patong
Patong Villa Patong
Pearl Hotel Phuket Phuket City
Phuket Graceland Resort & Spa Patong
Phuket Island View Hotel Karon
Phuket Merlin Hotel Phuket City
Phuket Orchid Resort Karon
Phulin Resort Karon Karon
Royal Paradise Hotel Patong
Royal Phuket City Phuket City
Sawasdee Guest House Kata
Sawasdee Village Resort Kata
Sea Sun Sand Resort Patong
Seaview Patong Hotel Patong
Serene Resort Kata
Sheraton Grande Laguna Laguna-Bang Tao
South Sea Resort Karon
Sugar Palm Karon Karon
Thara Patong Beach Resort & Spa Patong
Thavorn Beach Village & Spa Patong
Thavorn Palm Beach Resort Karon
The Racha Resort Islands Nearby
Tony Resort Phuket Patong
Trisara Phuket Mai Kao-Nai Yang
Tropical Garden Resort Kata
Twinpalms Phuket Surin
Village Resort & Spa Phuket Karon
Waterfront Apartments Phuket Karon
Woraburi Phuket Resort & Spa Karon

Paris

2009-01-17T00:16:00.000-08:00

Paris

Paris is one of the great cities in the world, and a cosmopolitan center of European cultural and intellectual life. The capital of France, Paris is today one of the world's leading business and cultural centers, and its influence in politics, education, entertainment, media, fashion, science and the arts all contribute to its status as one of the world's major global cities. Before 1,300 years, it was a fishing village called Lutetia Parisiorum, named for the Gallic tribe of Parisii.

History: Julius Caesar conquered the city in 52 BCE. The
name was changed to “Paris” by the fourth century CE, and, when Paris' count Hugh Capet became King of France in 987, Paris was elevated to be the country's capital. This town spread to the left bank and acquired considerable importance under the later emperors. In the 11th century the city spread to the right bank. During the next two centuries—the reign of Philip Augustus (1180–1223) is especially notable for the growth of Paris.

The Renaissance reached Paris in the 16th century, during the reign of Francis I (1515–47). At this time the Louvre was transformed from a fortress to a Renaissance palace. In the Wars of Religion (1562–98), Parisian Catholics, who were in the great majority, took part in the massacre of St. Bartholomew's Day (1572), forced Henry III to leave the city on the Day of Barricades (1588), and accepted Henry IV only after his conversion (1593) to Catholicism.

In the opening events of the French Revolution, city mobs stormed the Bastille (July, 1789) and hauled the royal family from Versailles to Paris (Oct., 1789). Napoleon (emperor, 1804–15) began a large construction program (including the building of the Arc de Triomphe, the Vendome Column, and the arcaded Rue de Rivoli) and enriched the city's museums with artworks removed from conquered cities.

In the course of his downfall, Paris was occupied twice by enemy armies (1814,1815). In the first half of the 19th the century Paris grew rapidly. Paris was the headquarters of NATO from 1950 to 1967; it is the headquarters of UNESCO. A number of major projects in the city were initiated by President Francois Mitterrand (1981–95); they include the new Bibliotheque Nationale, the glass pyramid at the Louvre, Grande Arche de la Defense, Arab Institute, Bastille Opera, and Cite de la Musique.

The facts and figures of Paris
The telephone dialing code for: Paris, France
The country code is: 33
The city code is: 1
Climate: Paris has an oceanic climate and is affected by the North Atlantic Current, so the city has a temperate climate that rarely sees extremely high or low temperatures. The average yearly high temperature is about 15 °C (59 °F), and yearly lows tend to remain around an average of 7 °C (45 °F). Rainfall can occur at any time of the year, and Paris is known for its sudden showers. The city sees an average yearly precipitation of 641.6 mm (25.2 inches). Snowfall is a rare occurrence.

Travel destinations

Paris is the most popular tourist destination in the world, with over 30 million foreign visitors per year. There are numerous iconic landmarks among its many attractions, along with world famous memorials, monuments, institutions and popular parks. Some of them are:

Arc de Triomphe (Arch of Triumph): The world's largest triumphal arch, the Arc de Triomphe stands at one end of Avenue des Champs Élysees, in the center of Place Charles de Gaulle. It was conceived by Napoleon I to commemorate his military victories. The arch was completed in 1836; it stands 164 ft/50 m high, 148 ft/45 m wide and 72 ft/22 m deep.
The Place de la Concorde: The Place de la Concorde is one of the major squares in Paris, France. It is located in the city's eighth arrondissement, at the eastern end of the Champs-Elysees. It is bounded by the Tuileries gardens. It is the locus of the zero marker, the official center for the national highways. The Pont de la Concorde, a monumental bridge, leads from the Place to the other side of the Seine. The square was designed by Jacques Gabriel and built between 1755 and 1792. It was originally planned as a monument to the then ruling Louis XV, whose statue stood in the center, and was called “Place Louis XV.”

The Champs-Elysees: The most pleasant area of the Champs- Elysees, between the Rond-Point and the Place de la Concorde, has no shops at all, just leafy gardens, chestnut trees and a few pavilions built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition. One of the nicer buildings, the Pavillon Elysees (at the Carre Marigny) was lovingly renovated and reopened in 2003 as a Lenotre cooking school, cafe and boutique. Next door is the Theatre de Marigny, designed by Garnier in 1853, where Offenbach performed his popular
operettas.

La Defense: La Defense viewed across the Bois de Boulogne. La Defense is a major business district for the city of Paris and the largest purpose-built business district in Europe, bordering Neuilly-sur-Seine, west of the city itself. It is centered in an ovular freeway loop straddling the Hauts-de-Seine departement municipalities of Nanterre, Courbevoie and Puteaux. The district is at the westernmost extremity of Paris' 10-km long Historical Axis, which starts at the Louvre in Downtown Paris and crosses the Champs - La Defense and the Arc de Triomphe.

Eglise de la Madeleine: In 1806 Napoleon made his decision to erect a memorial, a Temple de la Gloire de la Grande Armee ("Temple to the Glory of the Great Army"); following an elaborate competition with numerous entries and a jury that decided on a design by Beaumont, the Emperor trumped all, instead commissioning Pierre-Alexandre Barthelemy Vignon (1763-1828) to build his design on an antique temple (Compare the Maison Carree, Nîmes, illustration left.) The then-existing foundations were razed, preserving the standing columns, and work begun anew. With completion of the Arc de Triomphe in 1808, the original commemorative role for the temple was blunted.

After the fall of Napoleon, with the Catholic reaction during the Restoration, King Louis XVIII determined that the structure would be used as a church, dedicated to Mary Magdalene.

Eiffel Tower: This landmark of modern day Paris was built by Gustave Eiffel in 1889 for the Exposition Universelle, the Eiffel Tower is 300 m/984 ft tall. At the time it was built, it was the world's tallest free-standing structure. There is access to three floors by stairs and elevators. There are two restaurants: one on the first floor and a more expensive one on the second floor.

Luxembourg Palace: The large Renaissance palace in Paris, on the left bank of the Seine near the Sorbonne. It was built (1615–20) for Marie de' Medici by Salomon de Brosse on the site of a former palace belonging to the duke of Piney-Luxembourg (hence its name), and it was enlarged in the 19th cent. It contains valuable paintings, notably those by Delacroix. The beautiful Luxembourg Gardens are also noteworthy.

Hotel de Ville, Paris: The Hotel de Ville in Paris, France, is the building housing the City of Paris's administration. Standing on the place de l'Hotel de Ville (formerly the place de Greve) in the city's IVe arrondissement, it has been the location of the municipality of Paris since 1357. It serves multiple functions, housing the local administration, the Mayor of Paris (since 1977), and also being a venue for large receptions.

University of Paris: University of Paris founded in 12th century. It was suppressed during the French Revolution and replaced in 1808 by an academy of the Universite Imperiale. In 1890 it was reestablished as a university. The student riots of 1968, which paralyzed Paris for weeks, centered around the university and led to radical changes. University of Paris accounts for one third of France's entire university population.

Parks and Gardens: Two of Paris's oldest and famous gardens are the Tuileries Garden, created from the 16th century for a palace on the banks of the Seine near the Louvre, and the Left bank Luxembourg Garden, another formerly private garden belonging to a chateau built for the Marie de' Medici in 1612. The Jardin des Plantes, created by Louis XIII's doctor Guy de La Brosse for the cultivation of medicinal plants, was Paris' first public garden.
A few of Paris' other large gardens are Second Empire creations:
The formerly suburban parks of Montsouris, Parc des Buttes
Chaumont and Parc Monceau (formerly known as the "folie de
Chartres"), were creations of Napoleon III's engineer Jean-Charles Alphand and the landscape and are enjoyed by all ages. Another project executed under the orders of Baron Haussmann was the re-sculpting of Paris' western Bois de Boulogne forest-parklands; the Bois de Vincennes, to Paris' opposite eastern end, received a similar treatment in years following. Newer additions to Paris' park landscape are the Parc de la Villette, built by the architect Bernard Tschumi on the location of Paris' former slaughter houses, and gardens being lain to Paris' periphery along the traces of its former circular "Petite Ceinture" railway line.

Theatre, Concert halls: Theatre traditionally has had a large place in Parisian culture. Few of Paris' major theatres are Bobino, Theatre Mogador and the Theatre de la Gaite-Montparnasse. Some Parisian theatres also doubled as concert halls. Many of France's greatest musical legends such as Édith Piaf, Maurice Chevalier, Georges Brassens and Charles Aznavour found their fame in Parisian concert halls. Legendary yet still-showing examples of these are Le Lido, Bobino, l'Olympia, la Cigale and le Splendid.

Discotheques: Guinguettes and Bals-concerts were the backbone of Parisian entertainment industry before the mid-20th century. Early to mid-19th century examples were the Moulin de la Galette guinguette and the Élysees-Montmartre and Chateau-Rouge dancehalls-gardens. Popular orchestral fare gave way to the Parisian accordionists of lore whose music moved the Apollo and le Java faubourg du Temple and Belleville dance-hall crowds.

Electronic music oriented clubs such as Le Rex, the Batofar (a boat converted into a club) or The Pulp are quite popular and some of the world's best DJs play there. Cafes, restaurants and hotels Hotel de Crillon Hôtel Ritz Paris Les Deux MagotsCafes quickly became an integral part of French culture from their appearance, namely from the opening of the left bank Cafe Procope in 1689 and the cafe Regence at the Palais Royal one year earlier.

Cuisine: Paris' culinary reputation has its base in the many origins of its descendants and inhabitants. With the early-19th century railways and ensuing industrial revolution came a flood of migration that brought with it all the diversity of France's many different regions, and maintained through 'local speciality' restaurants catering to the tastes of people from all. Of course migration from even more distant climes meant an even greater culinary diversity, and today, in addition to a great number of North African and Asian establishments, in Paris one can find top-quality cuisine from virtually the world over.

The famous Paris Recipes:
STARTERS
Fried Camembert, Escargots de Bourgogne, Cousinette, Pamplemousse au Crabe, Carrot Domes with Gruyere.

MaIN COURSES & SOUPS
Onion Soup with Wine, Kidneys a la Jardiniere, Tournedos Rossini, Calamares a la Provencale, Creamed Roquefort Quiche, Grenouilles au Riz, Agneau Champvallon, Chicken with Truffles, Chicken in Muscadet, Boeuf Bourguignon, Duck or Goose Confit, Cassoulet.
ACCOMPANIMENTS: Homemade Tapenade, Clamart Puree, Topinambours en Daube, Potatoes a l'alsacienne, Aubergines a la Bordelaise, Lyonnaise Butter Beans, Dauphinois Potatoes.
DESSERTS: Congolais, Brioches, Savoury Brioches, Langues de Chat Pear Flan, Fresh Berry Clafoutis, Sultana and Apple Clafoutis Profiteroles au Chocolat.

Hotels: Hotels were another result of widespread travel and tourism, especially Paris' late-19th century expositions Universelles (World's Fairs). Of the most luxurious of these, the Hotel Ritz appeared in the Place Vendome from 1898, and the Hotel de Crillon opened its doors on the north side of the place de la Concorde from 1909.

Cinema: The people of Paris tend to share the same movie-going trends as many of the world's global cities, that is to say with a dominance of Hollywood-generated film entertainment. French cinema comes a close second, with major directors such as Claude Lelouch, Jean-Luc Godard, Claude Chabrol and Luc Besson, and the more slapstick/popular genre with director Claude Zidi as an example.

European and Asian films are also widely shown and
appreciated. A specialty of Paris is its very large network of small movie theaters. Many of Paris' concert/dance halls were transformed into movie theatres when the media became popular from the 1930s. Later most of the largest cinemas were divided into multiple, smaller rooms.

Festivals of Paris

Paris can be called as the city of festivals and functions. There are many festivals and functions for all reasons, for all races and for all regions. Some of them can be classified here:
In January, La Grand Parade - celebrating the new year's day falls on. In the February, Chinese New Year, is celebrated in the 13th arrondissement. March, international jazz festival, takes place in the towns of Seine-Saint-Denis. And, Festival de Films des Femmes or women's film festival starts.
In April, Marathon de Paris, April Fools' Day celebrations gets a good audience. In the month of May, In the first day, Fete du Travail, festivities around la Bastille happens.In June, the special attraction is Gay day parade.
On July 14, the Bastille Day commemorating the storming of the Bastille with bands and dance.

In November, the first day celebrated as the All Saints’ Day, when the living honour their dead. In December, Le Nouvel An or New Year's Eve, on December 31, with fireworks, drinking and kissing celebration, on the Champs-Elysees. Parc de la Villette.

General Tips and tips

In France, all posted prices include tax and service (the latter is around 15% of the total price). However, if the service has been particularly good, you may wish to leave an additional amount as a tip. As a general rule in France, a tip is about 5 to 10% of the total bill.

Ottawa

2009-01-17T00:15:00.000-08:00

Ottawa

Ottawa with its vibrant urban amenities is the desirable place for any one to explore the modern day civilization. The unpolluted inland water ways, green spaces, river Ottawa are the great things which make every tourist admire them. Sailing up the Rideau Canal gives the ones enjoying it an experience that could hardly slip one’s mind or memory.

The tourists coming to this city never leave it dejected or dissatisfied inasmuch as so much are the modern day amusements and recreations of night life and sight seeing available here. This city contains numerous museums, galleries and universities .This city though small in area full of skyscrapers, massive buildings and parks. The old and ever shining buildings narrate to the visitors the glorious past of this city and of its multi – ethnic beauty.

Here we can witness the French and the English domination in the shops and the malls. It is also the cultural capital of Canada, specialized in the visual and the performing arts. With spread over of Opera, Symphony, theatres besides traditional festivals of various descendants, the city, on the whole, wears a look that is both traditional and modern as well. The present day attraction of this city is the world-famous tulip festival which is celebrated in every summer.

Location: Ottawa is the capital of Canada. The city is situated along the Ontario side of the Ottawa River, opposite Gatineau, Quebec. It is the country's fourth largest Municipality as well as the second largest city in the province of Ontario. Ottawa lies on the banks of the Ottawa River, a major waterway that forms the boundary between Ontario and Quebec.

To get in: McDonald-Cartier International Airport is Ottawa's main Airport which connects the major destinations with flights. Air Canada, Air France, KLM, and Swiss International Airlines provide shuttle bus service between Ottawa and Montreal and this shuttle service facilitate connections with their flights which are operated from Trudeau International Airport. Both the Bus service and the canal water ways offer a very pleasant experience to the tourists and the travelers one and all.

Activities: Elgin Street, Bank Street and the ByWard Market areas are familiar for Night life with salsa dance clubs, blues joints, karaoke and a multitude of Irish pubs certainly attracts lots and lots of youngsters around the globe.

The famous spot for shopping is Byward Market, downtown Ottawa, In Summer stalls selling fresh produce and flowers line the streets. Another place of shoppers’ paradise includes Sparks Street, Westboro Village and a few more.
Attractions: Parliament Hill: The primary attraction for most visitors in Ottawa is Parliament Hill, which is in the middle of downtown Ottawa, overlooking the Ottawa River. It forms the finest example of the Gothic revival style of architecture.

Canadian War Museum: This gigantic building shows the Canada's involvement in armed conflict beginning with battles between the French and the British, through the World Wars, Korea, and the country's current involvement in NATO and UN operations as well.

Museum of Civilization: This museum presents the story of Canada’s population beginning with Aboriginal migration across the Bering Strait through European settlement by the Vikings around 1000 CE, and the British and the French in the 1500s. The museum is full of a variety of items ranging from full size Salish totem poles to the recreation of a small prairie town complete with grain elevator. This museum includes an exhibit on Canada Post and a separate museum for children.

Science and Technology Museum and Museum of Nature are the places meant for Kids as well as the grown-ups. The Rideau Hall is the official residence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and her representative, the Governor General of Canada.

Getting Around: The easy-walk path ways, warm weather and unpolluted air are the admirable items conducive for the tourists who prefer walking to enjoy and enthrall the beauty of Ottawa. Some prefer cycling as a means of sightseeing. There are lots of facilities for sigh seeing in Ottawa. Use of car here may look odd because of all the places being situated in neighborhood. Some use rollerblade and some others, skating wheel.

Osaka

2009-01-17T00:14:00.000-08:00

Osaka

Osaka is the second largest city of Japan, it can be treated as the industrial capital of Japan. Situated in the central metropolis of Kansai province. It also special for its cuisine and the electronic products. This historical city is administered by 24 wards or areas of management, such as Kita, Minami, Chuo Naniwa, Namba, Shinsaibashi, Horie, Dōtonbori, Semba, Yodoyabashi, Kitahama, Doujima, Hommachi and so on. Other important places are Kyobashiin the northeast of Osaka Castle is home to Osaka Business Park and Shin-Osaka.
The modern city was initially designated in 1889 by government ordinance, starting up with an area of merely 15 km, overlapping today's Chuo and Nishi wards. Later the city went through three major expansions to reach current size of 222 km.
Osaka has its own unique flavour from the rest of Japan.The people of Osaka are generally very friendly and warm. Osakans are renowned in Japan for their strong, jovial character and are often described as cheerful, down-to-earth.
It has some “Firsts” in Japan. They are:
The first cup noodle was made by Nissin, a company in Osaka. Now 65.3 billion servings are produced yearly in the world.
Osakans walk faster than anyone in the world. The average walking speed in Osaka is 1.60 m/sec, which is the world's fastest.
Osaka has the longest monorail system in the world. The Osaka Monorail is 23.8 km long, and is being extended. Osaka has the world's longest truss bridge. The bridge between Kansai International Airport and Rinku Town is the world's longest truss bridge with a length of 3,750 m.
Osaka is home to the world's oldest family run company,Kongo Gumi, now in its 40th generation, has been constructing temples and other buildings since 578 AD. Kongo Gumi has constructed many famous buildings, including Shitennoji Temple and the 16th century Osaka Castle.
Japan's first TV was made in Osaka.And Osaka is home to Japan's first domestically manufactured television.
Japan's first supermarket opened in Osaka. The first Daiei outlet opened in 1957 and many more on…
Seasons: Spring is one of the best times to come visit Osaka, and take part in the "hanami" or cherry blossom viewing. Osaka can get very hot in the summer, but luckily there are lots of ways to cool off such as the Marine Festival. Autumn is another great time to visit Osaka, when the temperature becomes perfect. The leaves change color and the city becomes gorgeous. Though winter can be very cold in Osaka, the season brings new, fresh foods and beautiful snow-covered scenery.
History: Osaka were found at the Morinomiya ruins dates back 5 - 6th centuries BC. In the Kofun Period, Osaka developed into a hub port connecting the region to the western part of Japan. In 645, Emperor Kōtoku built his palace in Osaka and made this area the capital (Naniwa-kyō). The area which now consists of Osaka city was called by this time Naniwa. While the capital was moved to Asuka in 655, Naniwa has always been a vital connection, by land and sea, between Yamato, Korea, and China.
In 1496, the Jodo Shinshū Buddhist sect set up their headquarters. The heavily fortified Ishiyama Hongan-ji on top of the ruins of the old Naniwa imperial palace. In 1570, Oda Nobunaga started a siege of the temple that lasted for 10 years. The monks finally surrendered in 1580, the temple was razed, and Toyotomi Hideyoshi took the place for his own castle: Osaka Castle.Osaka grew into one of Japan's major cities and returned to its ancient role as a lively and important port.
To get in Osaka: The main international gateway to Osaka is Kansai International Airport. Most domestic flights arrive at Osaka International Airport, also known as Itami Airport Itami is connected to the Osaka Monorail. You wish to get Osaka by train, there is also many ways. Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen trains arrive at Shin-Osaka station, to the north of the city center. From Shin-Osaka, you can connect to the city center by using the Midosuji subway line. And several overnight trains make runs to and from the main Osaka Station. The Twilight Express, runs into Hokkaido and terminates at Sapporo, the Nihonkai train which runs to Aomori in northern Tohoku.
The important places of Osaka
Osaka Castle: Osaka's best known sight is the Castle. Now there is the remains of concrete walls of the castle.Although it is pretty enough looking from the outside. The castle is situated on a plot of land roughly one km square. It is built on two raised platforms of landfill supported by sheer walls of cut rock, each overlooking a moat. The central castle building is five stories on the outside and eight stories on the inside, and built atop a tall stone foundation to protect its occupants from sword-bearing attackers.
The castle is open to the public, and is easily accessible from Osakajokoen Station on the JR West Osaka Loop Line. It is a popular spot during festival seasons, and especially during the cherry blossom bloom. The grounds also house a museum, the large indoor arena Osaka-jo Hall, and the Toyokuni Shrine dedicated to Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
Naniwa Palace Site Park: The Naniwanomiya can also be found south to Osaka Castle Park. Here we can witness the reconstructions of ancient Japanese architecture, concentrating on the structures associated with Naniwa-no-miya (Naniwa Palace). In the 1960's a massive preservation movement was initiated after the city government announced plans for urban redevelopment of the site. As a result, the area containing the remains of the central buildings of the palace was designated a historic site. This has grown into a park covering almost 90, 000 square metres.
Osaka Museum of History: It is situuated from 5 minutes walk from subway Tanimachi 4-chome Station but also accessible via Osaka Castle or from JR Osaka-jo Station. An ideal place to learn all-abouts of Osaka's history. Enjoyable view over Osaka Castle and the OBP skyscrapers.

Osaka Science Museum: This is the place for kids and its activities. Contains Planetarium and cinema halls. The museum is located between the Dōjima River and the Tosabori River, above Osaka's subterranean National Museum of Art. Opened in 1989, the museum was constructed to mark the 100th anniversary of Osaka City. It was known as the Osaka City Electricity Science Museum and it was both the first science museum and the first planetarium in Japan.
The museum also houses a collection of scientific resources, including Japan's first planetarium (a Carl Zeiss II model), the Cockcroft-Walton accelerator
resources related to Seimikyoku, Japan's first fully-fledged chemistry laboratory pre-war electrical measuring devices.

Umeda Sky Building: This building was constructed in an attempt to upgrade Osaka's somewhat downbeat Kita district, the project wasn't quite the hoped-for commercial success but this bizarrely shaped 40-story, 173-meter building is still a city landmark. Take the escalator through midair to the rooftop observatory for an open-air view of Osaka, which is particularly impressive on a clear night. The basement features a recreation of a Meiji-era street, with a few small restaurants and bars in appropriate style.
The Umeda Sky Building is the seventh-tallest building in Osaka City, Japan, and one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Located in the Umeda district of Kita-ku, the building was originally conceived in 1988 as the "City of Air" project, which planned to create four interconnected towers in northern Osaka. The building features a rooftop observatory, The Floating Garden Observatory, as well as an underground market that attempts to recreate the atmosphere of Osaka in the early 20th century.

Sumiyoshi Taisha: is one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, with a history stretching back 1800 years. Its traditional architecture is unusual amongst Japan's shrines, and its park-like surroundings with the sacred bridge arching over a tranquil pond make it a restful break from the busy environment of Osaka.
Shitennoji: Built by Emperor Suiko in 593 AD. Although the current buildings are mostly post WWII reconstructions, the temple is a rare sample which conveys the continental style. The prince Shotoku constructed this temple in 593, using the construction firm Kongō Gumi. It is the oldest officially administered temple in Japan, although the temple buildings have been rebuilt over the centuries.
It is also home to a major flea market on the 21st of each month.Access to Shitennoji is via a 10 minute walk from Tennoji Station, on the JR, Midosuji and Tannimachi train lines.
Japan Mint: It's not widely known even by people from elsewhere in the country that Japan Mint is actually headquartered in Osaka. For Osakans, Sakura-no-torinuke, cherry blossom tunnel road) is a synonym for this facility, attracting a large number of visitors (close to 1 million in just 7 days). In the early Meiji era, paper currency was initially printed in Germany. The European production was inspected and sealed by Bank note Annex Office of the Ministry of Finance. A proposal to construct a bank note manufacturing plant was submitted to Grand Council of State in May, 1874; and construction was approved in December of that same year. A two-story Western red brick building was completed in October, 1876.
Over the course of decades, Mint activities have expanded to include: the production of orders (decorations), medals of honor and metallic art objects; the analysis and testing of metal ores and minerals; and the fineness certification of precious metal wares (hallmarking). The Mint became an Incorporated Administrative Agency on April 1, 2003.
Tsutenkaku: The original tower was built early 20th century, the current newer version is designed by the same Prof. Naitō, who also designed Tokyo Tower. This landmark built in the middle of Shinsekai area is a symbol of reconstruction of the City of Osaka post WWII. Tsutenkaku has the meaning of "Tower Reaching Heaven", owned by Tsutenkaku Kanko Co., Ltd. is a well-known landmark of Osaka, Japan and advertises Hitachi, Ltd. It is located in the Shinsekai district of Naniwa Ward, Ebisu Higashi. Its total height is 103 m: the main observation deck is at a height of 91 m.The current tower is actually the second to occupy the site. The original tower, patterned after the Eiffel Tower, was built in 1912, and was connected to the adjacent amusement park, Luna Park, by an aerial cable car. It quickly became one of the most popular locations in the city, drawing visitors from all over the area. The Japanese government dismantled the tower in 1943, believing that it would serve as a reference point for American bombing raids on Osaka: the iron in the tower was melted down and used for war material.

On the fifth floor observation deck is enshrined Billiken, the God of Happiness or "things as they ought to be."Billiken, a popular American charm doll that came to Japan in about 1910, was enshrined within Luna Park when it opened. When the park was closed in 1923, the wooden statue of Billiken went missing. As a part of an effort to revive the tower, a copy of Billiken was made from an old photograph and placed inside the tower in 1979. The statue of Billiken has became closely associated with the tower and is a popular symbol of good luck. Each year thousands of visitors place a coin in his donation box and rub the soles of his feet to make their wishes come true. The tower is also famous for its neon lights, which change every few years.

Cuisines of Osaka: Osaka has some of the most delicious food in Japan. In the Osaka philosophy, "kuidaore" which means, eat until you drop. Osaka loves to party, eat and drink, and hopefully you will have an opportunity to taste some of these particularly Osakan delights. The following are the mouth watering food items of Osaka.

Takoyaki is a small savory cake dumplings containing a bit of octopus. It is eaten as a snack or refreshment. But the sauce is irresistable.Okonomiyaki. The Japanese don’t feel like that. The another one is, Japanese crepe or pan cake, is another representative food of Osaka. The methods for preparing it and the flavour differs from restaurant to restaurant and from home to home. Osaka has more Okonomiyaki shops than any other prefecture in Japan. And in the non vegetaian items, Crab Dishes gets an important place in the Osaka dishes.Tecchiri & Tessa, Tecchiri is a pot of blow fish and vegetables, and Tessa is raw blowfish. Both very delicious, the quantity of blow fish consumed in Osaka Prefecture is greater than any other prefecture in Japan.

Yakinuku, or barbeque meat, is very popular in Osaka. Yakiniku came to Japan through the Korean peninsula to Osaka first, thereby making it some of the most authentic Yakiniku in Japan. Yakiniku is regarded as "Stamina Food" and will increase your strength.

Kitsune Udon, Udon are a type of thick Japanese noodle, and kitsune is a piece of sweet deep fried bean curd. The combination of the two in a bonito and kelp broth is delicious.

And more, Oshizushi, Oshizushi, a variety of sushi using cooked fish and seasoning pressed firmly onto rice to make little boxes.

Hotels: There are many more hotels in Osaka according to our want and wish. They are:
Hotel Chuo, Taishi Nishinari-ku Osaka-shi.　
Hotel Chuo New Annex, 1-1-11 Taishi, Nishinari-Ku.
Hotel Taiyo, 23-2-1 Taishi Nishinari-ku.
Hotel Toyo, Hotel Mikado, Taishi Nishinari-ku.
Capsule Inn Osaka, 9-5 Doyamamachi, Kita-ku, Asahiplaza Shinsaibashi, 2-12-22 Nishi-shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku ,
Esaka Central Hotel, Business Hotel OK, 1-10-11 Juso-higashi Yodogawa-ku Osaka,
Hotel 1-2-3 Tennoji,
Guest house U-en, 1-5-8 Uemachi,Chuo-ku, Osaka city, Sunplaza Rinkai, Weekly Green in Namba,
Azu-Garden Nippombashi, Kaneyoshi Ryokan,
Hotel Adnis, Tennoji 5-5-15,
Comfort Inn Shinsaibashi, 1-15, Higashi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo. Park Hotel Rinkai, Near Honmachi Station,
Cuore, 1-15-15, Namba-Naka, Naniwa-ku,
Hilton Osaka 1-8-8, Umeda, Kita-ku,
Imperial Hotel 8-50, Temmabashi 1-chome, Kita-ku,
Rihga Royal Hotel, 5-3-68,
Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Swissotel Nankai 5-1-60, namba,Chuo-ku,
Hotel Nikko Osaka 1-3-3, Nishi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku

Caution: Osaka has an overall level of crime is as low as in Tokyo or other Japanese cities. However, some districts, particularly Shinsekai and Tobito, may be a little dodgy at night and the Airin/Kamagasaki area — Japan's largest slum, home to a lot of jobless and/or homeless people.

Naha

2009-01-17T00:13:00.000-08:00

Naha

A city of southwest Okinawa, Japan, in the Ryukyu Islands on the East China Sea. It is a port and the commercial center of the islands. The modern city was founded on May 20, 1921. However, it had been one of the most important and populous sites in the Ryukyu Islands as the capital of the Ryukyu Kingdom. During the battle of Okinawa in World War II, Naha suffered extensive damage from attacks by US forces. The entire center of the city had to be rebuilt.

Naha Airport is the largest airport in the Okinawa area and the main hub for international and inter-island flights. And it is the Japan's fifth largest airport, it also carries domestic flights to Tokyo International Airport. Naha is also a
hub for service to other locations in Okinawa, including Ishigaki Airport. In all, flights
connect Naha to more than 30 destinations. Its single 3000 m runway handles in
excess of 150 flights daily.

There are many important places in this historical place. We can now see some of them briefly.

Shureimon (or Shurei no mon) is a gate in the Shuri neighborhood of Naha, the
capital of Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. It is the second of Shuri Castle's main gates,
was built in the 16th century. The gate reflects strong Chinese influence, alongside indigenous religious traditions. The gate was destroyed during the Second World War and reconstructed through local campaigns and support in the 1950's-60's. It was thus the first part of the Shuri Castle that was reconstructed, although decades would follow until the rest of the castle was restored as well.

The Ryukyu Kingdom : The Ryukyu Kingdom was an independent kingdom
which ruled most of the Ryukyu Islands from the 15th century to the 19th century. The Kings of Ryukyu unified Okinawa Island and extended the kingdom to the Amami Islands in modern-day Kagoshima Prefecture, and the Yaeyama Islands near
Taiwan.Dynasty of Heavenly Descent), which was said to have lasted 17,000
years. The Meiji Japanese government abolished the Ryukyu Kingdom, formally annexing the islands to Japan as Okinawa Prefecture in 1879.

Shuri Castle: Shuri Castle is the former seat of the Ryukyu Kingdom, built in the
Okinawan gusuku style. Completely destroyed during World War II, the present
buildings are reconstruction from 1958 and 1992. Shuri Castle was built on a plateau
about 120 meters above sea level. It is the largest of Okinawa's castles. From the 13th to the 14th centuries, a number of local lords or chieftains called "Aji"
arose to exercise control over portions of Okinawa. This was a tumultuous period and
Aji rose and fell. Not one of them was able to wield enough power to unify the warring satrapies, and Shuri Castle was just one among a considerable number of castles.

Himeyuri Peace Museum:
It take about 40 minutes by car from Naha Airport. It takes about 30 minutes from Naha to Itoman-city by bus. It takes about 15 minutes from Itoman-city to Himeyuri-no-tou Bus Stop. Monument was built to pray for the 219 high school students and teachers who helped Japanese soldiers as war nurses during the Okinawa War. They were called Himeyuri (which means red lily) Corps. They killed themselves after being surrounded by the US soldiers. Himeyuri Peace Museum is located by the Himeyuri Monument. Many visitors come here to learn about the tragedy and pray for peace.

Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum:
Towards the end of World War Two, Okinawa Island became site of one of the war's
bloodiest battles, when the US forces invaded and occupied the island. An estimated
200,000 people, including more than 100,000 civilians and 12,500 Americans were
killed in the battle, which lasted from April to June 1945.
Numerous sites and memorials related to the "Battle of Okinawa" are concentrated
mainly in the south of the island, where the worst fighting took place.
Other monuments in the park include the "Cornerstone of Peace", a collection of
large stone plates with the names of all fallen soldiers and civilians, including
Koreans, Taiwanese, Americans and Britons.

Peace Memorial Park
It is situated in distance of nearly 80 Kms from Naha. This peace memorial and its park are iviting many more tourists to this place.

Okinawa World:
The major attraction at this theme park is Gyokusendo Cave, 890 meters long, with some interesting stalagmite and stalactite formations. Above the cave is a tourist village with performances of traditional dance, shops selling crafts and snake liquors, and restaurants. You need not to afraid of snake. Here we can get different types of snake soups. Separate admission is required for the habu snake exhibition which includes a snake and mongose show.

Other attractions of Naha:
Kite boarding is available around the year. Although, winter months being the best for the kites. Shopping Kokusai Doori is full of shops that sell a multitude of Okinawan products. It's also a good place for the nightlife and youth scene. Beach Naha actually has one beach, straight towards the ocean from the southern end of kokusai doori. Not the most beautiful beach in Okinawa, but a clean beach for all practical purposes. Fishing is just 15 minutes away from Naha Airport is the dock where Saltwater Fishing Okinawa's head boat is berthed.

General Instructions for tourists:

At temples:
When we visit a temple, behave calmly and respectfully. Show your respect by making a short prayer in front of the sacred object. Do so by throwing a coin into the offering box, followed by a short prayer. When entering temple buildings, you may be required to take off your shoes. Leave your shoes on the shelves at the entrance or take them with you in plastic bags provided at some temples. At the purification fountain near the shrine's entrance, take one of the ladles provided, fill it with fresh water and rinse both hands.

Toilets
There are two types of toilets in Japan: "Japanese style" and "Western style".
Public washrooms are usually equipped with Japanese style toilets, but the number of public washrooms with Western style toilets has increased significantly, especially in tourist areas. Public washrooms with both Japanese and Western style toilets are also common. Because toilet paper is sometimes not provided in public washrooms, it is recommended to always carry a small package of tissues with you.

Eating Manners
In Japan, some restaurants and private homes have low tables and cushions on the floor, rather than Western style chairs and tables. These are usually found on tatami floors. In Japan, you say "itadakimasu" ("I gratefully receive") before eating, and "gochisosama (deshita)" ("Thank you for the meal") after finishing the meal.
It is not uncommon in private households and in certain restaurants (e.g. izakaya) to share several dishes of food at the table rather than serving each person an individual dish. When eating from shared dishes, move some food from the shared plates onto your own with the opposite end of your chopsticks or with serving chopsticks that may be provided for that purpose.
The proper usage of chopsticks is the most fundamental element of Japanese table manners. And, Blowing your nose in public, and especially at the table, is considered bad manners. It is considered good manners to empty your dishes to the last grain of rice.

Drinking rules
When drinking alcoholic beverages, it is customary to serve each other, rather than pouring your own beverage. Periodically check your friends' cups and refill their drinks if their cups are getting empty. Likewise, if someone wants to serve you more alcohol, you should quickly empty your glass and hold it towards that person. Do not start drinking until everybody at the table is served and the glasses are raised for a drinking salute, which usually is "kampai

Hotels in Naha

1.Base OkinawaAsia Japan Naha
Kume, Naha
2.Ukishima Towns RyokanAsia Japan Naha
Kumoji, Naha
3.KashiwayaAsia Japan Naha
Tsuboya, Naha
4.Hotel Sun PalaceAsia Japan Naha
Kumoji, Naha
5.Tōyoko Inn Naha Izumisaki KōsatenAsia Japan Naha
Kumoji, Naha
6.Okinawa International Youth HostelAsia Japan Naha
Kumoji, Naha

Is Visa necessary?
From November 20, 2007, all foreigners get fingerprinted and photographed. This procedure is not for the persons under the age of 16. And special groups, such as diplomats, visiting dignitaries and tokubetsu eijuusha. All foreigners receive a status of residence when entering Japan. There are more than twenty statuses of residence, including "temporary visitor" for tourists and a range of statuses for students, workers and relatives of Japanese nationals and residents.
If you are a citizen of one of the over 50 countries, with which Japan has a "general visa exemption arrangement", you need only a valid passport to enter Japan as a "temporary visitor. Temporary visitors from most countries are allowed to stay for up to 90 days. If you are a citizen of Austria, Germany, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Mexico, Switzerland or the United Kingdom, you have the possibility to extend your stay for up to six months. You still initially enter Japan on a 90 day permit, but can then apply for an extension at an immigration bureau in Japan.
Temporary visitors are not allowed to engage in any paid activities. However, short term studies at Japanese language schools are permitted. All foreign tourists in Japan are required to carry their passports with them at all times.

Nagoya

2009-01-17T00:12:00.000-08:00

Nagoya

Nagoya is Detroit of Japan. It is the home to the auto giants Toyota, Honda, Mitsubishi Motors. Nagoya's economy continues to expand on the heels of these companies global successes. Nagoya is Japan's fourth-largest city after Tokyo, Yokohama and Osaka and one of the nation's major economic centers, in terms of manufacturing.

Major companies: Nagoya now ranks as one of the nation's economic powerhouses, and is home to the head offices of Toyota Motor Corporation, Brother Industries, Daido Steel, Makita, Denso Corporation, INAX, Suzuki Motor, Honda Motor, Noritake, NGK Insulators, Olympus Optical, Yamaha and many others. The major industries included, automobiles, textiles, watches, bicycles, sewing machines, machine tools, chemicals and ceramics.

This industrial city has the population of around 2,223,148, located in the central Honshu, Japan. Situated east of Kyoto, at the head of Ise Bay. The city dates back from 1610, when a large castle was erected by the Owari branch of the Tokugawa shogunate; the castle was destroyed during World War II and rebuilt in 1959.

History: Nagoya gets its name from an old manor called Nagono which was built in the area in the 12th century. The manor prospered for two hundred years, then the people began to refer to the area by the manor's name. During World War II, most of Nagoya's manufacturing infrastructure turned to the production of military goods, making it a prime target for bombing raids.

Almost 25% of the city was destroyed during the war, with almost half the population fleeing to the countryside to avoid the Bombings. The end of the war marked a new start for Nagoya. Car-friendly wide streets and boulevards were bulldozed through the rubble of war, making for the city of today.

Climate: Nagoya's climate varies greatly throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from a low of 4.18 degrees C in January to a high of 27.3 degrees C in August. The city is known for its incredibly hot and humid summers, with high temperatures routinely surpassing 30 degrees C in August.

To get in: Chubu Kokusai is the airport to get in Nagoya. This is the Japan's third major international gateway, located on an artificial island, 30 minutes south from the center of town Nagoya Airport. While all other companies have moved to Chubu, regional flights by J-Air still use the old Nagoya Airport, also known as Komaki Airport, to the north of the city. The flights for a number of domestic destinations including Akita, Yamagata, Niigata, Kochi, Matsuyama, Fukuoka, Kumamoto, and Nagasaki are also available from here.

Foods of Nagoya:
Nagoya is big on miso, a sauce made from fermented soybeans. No one can leave the city without trying misokatsu, fried pork cutlet with a rich, red miso sauce on it. And another one is Viro. Uiro is known as a Nagoya’s speciality sweet. It is made of rice flour and sugar. Its flavour is not overly sweet, but rather delicate. Originally, Uiro was founded by Osu-Uiro. Hitsumabushi is the most lovly food of Nagoyavians. You really have to try the Eel meal. There are several different Eel meals and Hitsumabushi is one of them. Hitsumabushi is Eel fillets cooked with soy flavoured special source on the charcoal, cut in small pieces and serve on the rice. Originally, Hitsumabushi was founded in the Meiji era in Nagoya, it was designed to serve for group of people. When the meal was served from a big wooden tub to the large number of the people, it was hard to serve the equal amount of Eels to people, therefore the waitress decided to cut the Eel fillets into small pieces.
Important Places of Nagoya:

Port of Nagoya Aquarium: In this spacious aquarium, the Sea creatures of Japan and the world can be viewed here, in a different category of deep sea gallery, tropical marine life, Australian Freshwater Life, and Antarctic Marine Life. In the north building, there is a large pool with 3,000 seats where sea animal performances are held.
Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology: It can be reached in a three minute walk from Meitetsu Sako Station goya line, 10-minute walk from exit 2, Subway: Kamejima Station (Higashiyama Line). Built on the site of one of Toyota's original loom factories, this museum tells the story of the Toyota corporation, from its beginnings as an industrial loom manufacturer to its transformation into one of the world's largest car manufacturers.

Includes large loom machinery and car display halls as well as a hands-on "Technoland" with interactive science exhibits. Library, video library with personal viewing booths, restaurant, cafe, and gift shop are also there.

Nagoya Castle: A famous landmark, particularly the two golden carp on the roof. The original castle was home to Oda Nobunaga, one of Japan's famous warlords. Largely destroyed during the war, the current castle is a concrete replica of the original, and was completed in 1959. The Castle houses an interesting museum, observation deck, and surrounding gardens.

Nagoya TV Tower: 180 meters tall, the Nagoya TV Tower is Japan's oldest - predating even the Tokyo Tower. Take an elevator to the 100m-high sky balcony for great views of Hisaya-odori park and Sakae.

Atsuta-jingu Shrine: Atsuta-jingu Shrine is located nearly in the center of Nagoya and is also called "Atta-san" or "Miya." It is very popular among the locals. Atsuta-jingu Shrine is a historic shrine that is mentioned in Japan's oldest history book, the 7th century "Kojiki," and has Kusanagi-no-Mitsurugi, one of the three heirlooms, "Sansyu-no-jingi," owned by successive emperors and used as a symbol of succession to the imperial throne.

The shrine spreads 200,000 square meters and surrounded by a dense forest called Atsuta Forest. The Treasury Hall inside the Bunka-den, a many-floored building constructed in 1966, stores approximately 4,000 treasures. Also inside the precincts, there are precious historic sites such as the Nobunaga-bei Wall dedicated by the 16th century general Oda Nobunaga, the Sakuma-tourou Lantern, and Nijugo-cho-bashi Bridge.

And, Nagoya City Art Museum, Nagoya City Science Museum, Koshoji Temple, Shiroyama Hakusan Shrine Nagoya/Boston Museum of Fine Arts are tourist worthy.

Markets: Osu Market, subway Osu Kannon. A series of old style shopping arcades packed with mom-and-pop stores, There is a little bit of everything. Osu is the shopping area and Osu Kannon the temple just to the west side.
Sakae is a good choice for your mainstream department store shopping, restaurants, and night-life.

Hotels: Capsule Inn Nagoya, 7F Kanayama 4-1-20, APA Hotel Nagoya Nishiki, 3-15-30 Nishiki, Chuo-ku, Meitetsu Inn Nagoya Kanayama, 1-11-7 Kanayama, Naka-ku, Marriott Associa Hotel, Nagoya Station and so on.

MOSCOW

2009-01-17T00:11:00.000-08:00

MOSCOW

Moscow is the capital and the largest city of Russia, the largest city in Europe, the largest urban areas in the world. It is located on the Moskva River in the Central Federal District, in the European part of Russia. Historically, it was the capital of the former Soviet Union and the Grand Duchy of Moscow, the pre-Imperial Russian state. It is the site of the Moscow Kremlin, which serves as the ceremonial residence of the President of Russia. Moscow is the home for the largest number of billionaires in the world. The world's most expensive city. It is home to many scientific and educational institutions, as well as numerous sport facilities. It possesses a complex transport system that includes the world’s busiest metro system, which is famous for its architecture and artwork.

HISTORY
The city is named after the river Moskva River. The origin of the name is unknown, although several theories exist. One theory suggests that the source of the name is an ancient Finnic language, in which it means “dark” and “turbid”. The first Russian reference to Moscow dates from 1147 when Yuri Dolgoruki called upon the prince of the Novgorod Republic to “come to me, brother, to Moscow.”
Nine years later, in 1156, Prince Yuri Dolgoruki of Rostov ordered the construction of a wooden wall, which had to be rebuilt multiple times, to surround the emerging city.[5] After the sacking of 1237–1238, when the Mongols burned the city to the ground and killed its inhabitants, Moscow recovered and became the capital of an independent principality in 1327. Its favourable position on the headwaters of the Volga River contributed to steady expansion. Moscow developed into a stable and prosperous principality for many years and attracted a large number of refugees from across Russia.
Under Ivan I the city replaced Tver as a political centre of Vladimir-Suzdal and became the sole collector of taxes for the Mongol-Tatar rulers. By paying high tribute, Ivan won an important concession from the Khan. Unlike other principalities, Moscow was not divided among his sons but was passed intact to his eldest. However, Moscow's opposition against foreign domination grew.
MET MANY WARS
In 1380, prince Dmitri Donskoi of Moscow led a united Russian army to an important victory over the Tatars in the Battle of Kulikovo which was not decisive, though. Only two years later Moscow was sacked by khan Tokhtamysh. In 1480, Ivan III had finally broken the Russians free from Tatar control, allowing Moscow to become the centre of power in Russia. Under Ivan III the city became the capital of an empire that would eventually encompass all of present-day Russia and other lands.
In 1571, the Crimean Tatars attacked and sacked Moscow, burning everything but the Kremlin. In 1609, the Swedish army led by Count Jacob De la Gardie and Evert Horn started their march from Velikiy Novgorod toward Moscow to help Tsar Vasili Shuiski, entered Moscow in 1610 and suppressed the rebellion against the Tsar, but leaving it early next year 1611, following which the Polish-Lithuanian army invaded.
The 17th century was rich in popular risings, such as the liberation of Moscow from the Polish-Lithuanian invaders (1612), the Salt Riot (1648), the Copper Riot (1662), and the Moscow Uprising of 1682.
DEVASTATION
The plague of 1654–1656 had killed half the population of Moscow. The city ceased to be Russia’s capital in 1712, after the founding of Saint Petersburg by Peter the Great on the Baltic coast in 1703. When Napoleon invaded Russia in 1812, the Muscovites burned the city and evacuated, as Napoleon’s forces were approaching on 14 September. Napoleon’s army, plagued by hunger, cold and poor supply lines, was forced to retreat and was nearly annihilated by the devastating Russian winter and sporadic attacks by Russian military forces.
EMERGENCE
In January 1905, the institution of the City Governor, or Mayor, was officially introduced in Moscow, and Alexander Adrianov became Moscow’s first official mayor. Following the Russian Revolution of 1917, on March 12, 1918, Moscow became the capital of the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic and the Soviet Union less than five years later. During the Great Patriotic War (a part of World War II and the official Russian name for the conflict, after German invasion of the USSR), the Soviet State Committee of Defence and the General Staff of the Red Army was located in Moscow.
In 1941, sixteen divisions of the national volunteers (more than 160,000 people), twenty-five battalions (18,500 people) and four engineering regiments were formed among the Muscovites. That November, German Army Group Centre was stopped at the outskirts of the city and then driven off in the course of the Battle of Moscow. Many factories were evacuated, together with much of the government, and from October 20 the city was declared to be under siege. Its remaining inhabitants built and manned antitank defences, while the city was bombarded from the air. It is of some note that Stalin refused to leave the city, meaning the general staff and the council of people's commissars remained in the city as well. Despite the siege and the bombings, the construction of Moscow's metro system, continued through the war and by the end of the war several new metro lines were opened.
On May 1, 1944, a medal For the defence of Moscow and in 1947 another medal In memory of the 800th anniversary of Moscow were instituted.
In commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the victory in World War II, on May 8, 1965, Moscow was one of twelve Soviet cities awarded the title of the Hero City. In 1980, it hosted the Summer Olympic Games, which was boycotted by the United States and several other Western countries due to the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan in late 1979.
In 1991, Moscow was the scene of a coup attempt by the government members opposed to the reforms of Mikhail Gorbachev. When the USSR was dissolved in the same year, Moscow continued to be the capital of Russia.
THE CITY
The entire city of Moscow is headed by one mayor (Yuriy Luzhkov). It is divided into ten administrative okrugs and 123 districts. Nine of the ten administrative districts, except the City of Zelenograd (number 1 on the map), are located within City of Moscow main boundaries. All administrative okrugs and districts have their own coats of arms, flags, and elected head officials. Additionally, most districts have their own cable television, computer network, and official newspaper. In addition to the districts, there are Territorial Units with Special Status, or territories. These usually include areas with small or no permanent populations, such as the case with the All-Russia Exhibition Centre, the Botanical Garden, large parks, and industrial zones.
Rich Architecture
Shukhov Tower in Moscow. Currently under threat of demolition, the tower is at the top of UNESCO's 'Endangered Buildings' list, and there is an international campaign to save it. Moscow’s architecture is world-renowned. Moscow is also well known as the site of Saint Basil’s Cathedral, with its elegant onion domes, as well as the Cathedral of Christ the Savior and the Seven Sisters. The Patriarch of Moscow, whose residence is the Danilov Monastery, serves as the head of the Orthodox Church. Moscow also hosted the 1980 Summer Olympics. For a long time, the view of the city was dominated by numerous Orthodox churches. The look of the city changed drastically during Soviet times, mostly due to Joseph Stalin, who oversaw a large-scale effort to modernise the city.

He introduced broad avenues and roadways, some of them over ten lanes wide, but he also destroyed a great number of historically significant architectural works. The Sukharev Tower, as well as numerous mansions and stores lining the major streets, and various works of religious architecture, such as the Kazan Cathedral and the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, were all destroyed during Stalin’s rule
Architect Vladimir Shukhov was responsible for building several of Moscow’s landmarks during early Soviet Russia. The Shukhov Tower, just one of many hyperboloid towers designed by Shukhov, was built between 1919 and 1922 as a transmission tower for a Russian broadcasting company. Shukhov also left a lasting legacy to the Constructivist architecture of early Soviet Russia. He designed spacious elongated shop galleries, most notably the Upper Trade Rows (GUM) on Red Square, bridged with innovative metal-and-glass vaults.
Ostankino Tower - the tallest free-standing structure in Eurasia. It will remain the third-tallest in the world after completion of Burj Dubai.
The role of Stalin
Stalin, however, is also credited with building the The Seven Sisters, comprising seven, cathedral-like structures. A defining feature of Moscow’s skyline, their imposing form was allegedly inspired by the Manhattan Municipal Building in New York City, and their style — with intricate exteriors and a large central spire — has been described as Stalinist Gothic architecture.
The Stalinist-era constructions, usually in the central city, are massive and usually ornamented with Socialist realism motifs that imitate classical themes. However, small churches — almost always Eastern Orthodox - that provide glimpses of the city's past still dot various parts of the city. The Old, a popular tourist street that was once the heart of a bohemian area, preserves most of its buildings from prior to the twentieth century. Many buildings found off the main streets of the inner city (behind the Stalinist facades of Tverskaya Street, for example) are also examples of the bourgeois decadence in Tsarist times. Ostankino, Kuskovo, Uzkoye and other large estates just outside Moscow originally belong to nobles from the Tsarist era, and some convents and monasteries, both inside and outside the city, are open to Muscovites and tourists.
Moscow's skyline is quickly modernizing with several new towers under construction. One tower will be the second tallest in the world when it is completed in 2010, the 2,009-foot (612 m) tall Russia Tower.
Popular Attractions in Moscow
Kremlin (Kreml') (The)
State Tretyakov Gallery (Tret'iakovskaia Galereia)
Monument to Peter the Great (Monument Petry Velikomu)
Red Square (Krasnaia Ploshchad')
St. Basil's Cathedral (Sobor Vasiliia Blazhennogo)
Victory Park (Park Pobedy)
Gorky Park
Moscow State University, main building (Moskovskii Gosudarstvennyi Universitet)
Ostankino
Dostoevsky Apartment Museum: The tallest free-standing land structure in the world and today remains the world’s second-tallest after the CN Tower in Toronto.
Patriarshiye Ponds
Novodevichy Convent
The Moscow Zoo entrance
Ostankino palace
Ice palace
Central Moscow Hippodrome façade
All-Russia Exhibition Centre

The Kremlin

The Moscow Kremlin is a must-see for visitors to Moscow. Once inside, you can visit Cathedral Square, whose historic cathedrals were worshipped in by the Tsars and their families. Also on display are the Tsar Bell and Tsar Cannon, two immobile monuments to the grandeur of Russia past. Don’t forget the Amory Museum, either, which holds precious relics of Imperial stature, such as gold-gilt carriages and silver-threaded royal garments.

Red Square

Just outside the Kremlin is the famous Red Square. There you can watch the changing of the guard at the Eternal Flame or visit Lenin’s Tomb (be prepared to stand in line for more than an hour for an “attraction” that is less impressive than it sounds). If St. Basil’s Cathedral is open, explore it—it is as beautiful on the inside as it is the outside. A final suggestion for Red Square: visit it in the quietude of the evening and experience it without the tourists. It’s magical!

State Tretyakov Gallery

The State Tretrakov Gallery has the best collection of Russian art. The likenesses of Catherine the Great and Pushkin will confront you in its galleries. Larger-than-life social commentaries from the 19th century will make your skin prickle with their messages. Repin, Vrubel, Kandinsky, Chagall, and many more Russian artists are represented here—open any book on Russian art and most of the significant pieces will be hanging in the Tretyakov. However, a book can’t do these paintings justice!

Izmaylovo Market

This is the main souvenir market of Moscow, and here is where you can find all things Russian at all prices. Folk crafts, jewelry, antiques, chess sets, and anything else “Russian” will tempt you in any variety and color. Getting there is easy, too—just look on any metro map and find the Izmaylovsky stop. Once you exit the subway, any passer-by can point you in the direction of the souvenir market.

Old Arbat Street

Old Arbat Street is Moscow's most famous thoroughfare. Old Arbat Street is tourist-oriented, and you'll be able to find some not-so-unusual souvenirs here. You'll have more than one artist, musician, or juggler vying for your attention, depending upon the season and the time of day. Old Arbat Street is completely pedestrian, which means it's great for people watching.

Victory Park

Moscow's Victory Park memorializes the Great Patriotic War, otherwise known as World War II. This war took a huge toll on Russia, and elderly Russians are revered for having survived this difficult time. You'll find WWII memorials all over Russia, but Victory Park is Moscow's home for these monuments, sculptures, fountains, and obelisks.

Sparrow Hills

Get a panoramic view of Moscow from Sparrow Hills. This vantage point allows you to get a good look at the expanse of the city. Perfect for photographs, a romantic moment, or jotting down thoughts in your travel journal.

GUM (State Department Store)

GUM, just off of Red Square, is Moscow's most famous shopping center. As the facade that faces into Red Square has maintained its 19th century appearance, it's easy to pass it by if you don't know it's there. The variety of shops contained within are a testament to how far Russia has come since Soviet days. You'll find all manner of boutique represented in GUM. If you just want to window shop, buy an ice cream from one of the vendors and browse and your leisure.

Pushkin Fine Arts Museum

While the Tretyakov Gallery houses Russia's greatest art works, the Pushkin Fine Arts Museum holds a vast collection of foreign born artists' masterpieces. If you like Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, and Renaissance art, you'll enjoy the Pushkin Fine Arts Museum.

Boat Tour of Moscow

Say goodbye to Moscow with a boat tour through the city. In summer, boat tours are pleasant and relaxing, and this alternative view of the city is charming. The towers of the Kremlin, as well as other significant architectural monuments, will peak over the treetops. Stand on the open-air deck and use your last roll of film to snap pictures of the buildings on the river’s banks.

And More
· There are 96 parks and 18 gardens in Moscow, Including 4 botanical gardens.
· The Central Park of Culture and Rest named after Maxim Gorky founded in 1928. The main part with area of 689,000 square metres (170 acres).
· The Izmaylovskiy Park created in 1931 is one of the largest urban parks in the world.
· The Sokolniki Park, which got its name from the falcon hunting that occurred here in the past, is one of the oldest in Moscow and has an area of 6 square kilometers (2 sq mi).
· The Losiny Ostrov National Park (literally — "Elk Island"), bordering the Sokolniki park, with total area of more than 116 square kilometers (45 sq mi) is the first national park of Russia, located in Moscow and Moscow Oblast.
· Tsytsin Main Botanical Garden of Academy of Sciences, founded in 1945 is the largest in Europe.
· Lilac Park, founded in 1958, is known for its permanent sculpture exposition and a large rosarium.
Sports Facilities
Moscow possesses a large number of various sport facilities and over 500 Olympic champions lived in the city by 2005.
· Moscow is home to sixty-three stadia (besides eight football and eleven light athletics maneges), of which Luzhniki Stadium is the largest and the 4th biggest in Europe (it hosted the UEFA Cup 1998-99 and UEFA Champions League 2007-08 finals).
· Forty other sport complexes are located within the city, including twenty-four with artificial ice. There are also seven horse racing tracks in Moscow, of which Central Moscow Hippodrome,[ founded in 1834, is the largest.
· Moscow was the host city of the 1980 Summer Olympics, although the yachting events were held at Tallinn, in present-day Estonia.
· Grand Sport Arena of Luzhniki Stadium as seen from Sparrow Hills.
· The two most titled multi-sport clubs in the world are Moscow's CSKA Moscow and Dynamo Moscow.
· The most titled Ice Hockey team in the Soviet Union and in the world, HC CSKA Moscow comes from Moscow.
· The most titled Soviet, Russian, and one of the most titled Euroleague clubs, is the Basketball club from Moscow PBC CSKA Moscow. Another strong Basketball club from Moskow is MBC Dynamo Moscow.
10 Top Hotels in Moscow

1. Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow Luxury Hotel
2. Kempinski Hotel Baltschug Moscow Luxury Hotel
3. Hotel Metropol Moscow Luxury Hotel
4. Swissotel Krasnye Holmy Moscow Luxury Hotel
5. Le Royal Meridien National Moscow Luxury Hotel
6. Sheraton Palace Moscow Luxury Hotel
7. Le Meridien Moscow Country Club
8. Marriott Moscow Grand Hotel
9. Savoy Moscow Luxury Hotel
10. Marriott Royal Aurora Hotel Moscow

Mauritius

2009-01-17T00:10:00.000-08:00

Mauritius

Mauritius is the most accessible island in the Indian Ocean, a tropical paradise. Moreover a traveller friendly tourist spot. Though nestled up alongside Africa, it's actually more influenced by its British and French ties and predominantly Indian workforce.
The lively and warm people, the relaxed vibes and the music of everyday life are likely to leave an even greater impression on any visitor. And more sumptuous palmfringed beaches, luxurious hotels and crystal-clear waters will be the sweet memories of any tourist. Its diversification into textiles, tourism, financial services, telecommunications and cyber services has been an Indian Ocean economic success story.

History

Mauritius remained uninhabited until the 16th century, allowing it to develop into one of the world's bio-diversity hotspots. It was occupied by pirates and briefly by the Dutch before the French brought African slaves to work in the sugar plantations. Captured by the British in 1810, Mauritius achieved independence in 1968. Got the status of Republic 24 years later on 12 March 1992. Descendants of Indian labourers brought in after the abolition of slavery in 1835 now comprise 70% of the population, and Chinese and Muslim traders add to a French and Creole cultural legacy.

Land

Mauritius has peculiar types of mountains with peaks, isolated mountains, hills, river valleys, waterfalls, plateaus and plains form the relief of Mauritius. Mountains are remnants of a big volcano which erupted many millions of years ago. Trou aux Cerfs is a dormant volcano with a well-defined cone and crater. Bassin Blanc is known for the scenic lake.. At Pointe aux Caves, the fossil cliff is fronted by a debris of rounded boulders of various sizes which cover the wave-cut platform.

Mountain Range: The range of mountains forms a ring suggesting that at one time they all belonged to one big volcano. Port Louis - Moka Range is the longest one. Others are the Grand Port Range, Savanne Range and Black River Range. Mountains carry names according to their shapes. For example, the Lion Mountain in the Grand Port Range has the shape of a sitting lion, Trois Mammelles has three protruding peaks and Montagne Blanche has been named after the grayish white colour of the rocks found on the mountain. There are also isolated peaks like Corps de Garde and Tourelle du Tamarin.

Central Plateau: Inside the ring of mountain ranges, there is the Central Plateau which was formed by lava flows from several small volcanoes. The Central Plateau is higher in the south west and it slopes gradually towards the north and east into an undulating landscape.

Rivers and Waterfalls: The volcanic landscape has been deeply dissected by the descending streams which take their sources from the super humid Central Plateau. The rivers have broad and open valleys on the Central Plateau. On crossing the rim of mountains, they have carved out spectacular waterfalls and deep gorges. The most spectacular one is the waterfall on River Tamarin, known as Sept Cascades. At Chamarel, Rivière Baie du Cap has a very scenic waterfall.

Gorges: Black River Gorges Over millions of years, water flowing down from Black River has carved these beautiful gorges in that mountainous region due to its steep gradient towards the sea.

Plains: Outside the ring of mountains ranges are the coastal plains, the largest one is in the North and is known as the Northern Plains. These plains has been formed by quick flowing lavas from volcanoes such as Mont Piton, Butte aux Papayes and Forbach Hill. The other plains i.e. Flacq Plains, Grand Port and Savanne Plains have been formed from lava flows of volcanoes on the Central Plateau. Most of the Grand Port and Savanne Plains have been formed by lavas coming from the largest volcano.

Waterbodies: Midlands Dam, constructed in 2003 in the wetter central part of the island, provides water for the northern districts in response to the growing water demands. During the past 100 years or so, 10 man-made reservoirs, listed hereunder, have been constructed in Mauritius.

Islets: The island shelf bordering Mauritius supports a large number of offshore islets of various structural types. These islets play a crucial role in deflecting waves and currents along the coast and hence affect the coastal morphologyalong main island.
The basaltic islets lie close to the main island with very shallow water in between. Several sandy islets are found in the lagoon a long the western coast.

Languages: Most people in Mauritius are bilingual and are equally fluent in English and French. Creole and French are the main languages. And also, several oriental languages are spoken.

Airport: The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU), at Plaisance is the major gateway. Air Mauritius is the home carrier and operates a network of routes to the local islands and to international destinations in Africa, Australia, Europe and Asia. Regional airlines Air Australia, Air Madgascar and Air Seychelles connect Mauritius with the surrounding islands. International airlines such as Air Europe, Air France , Virgin Airlines, Air Zimbabwe, Austrian Airlines, British Airways , Condor, South African Airways, Air India and Emirates serve Mauritius from their lands.

Places

Grand Bay: Grand Bay was the first area of the island to fully experience the tourist boom. A shopping and leisure paradise, Grand Bay also happens to be the area where Mauritians head for when they want a fun-filled night out (restaurants, bars and discos). Recently renovated, La Cuvette beach is well worth a visit.

Pereybère: The wonderful Pereybere public beach is popular because of its shopping facilities, restaurants and pubs. A few metres away from Baie aux Tortues, which 17th century sailors named after the many tortoises in the area, can be found the ruins of the old Balaclava estate. Visitors will be able to see the sea walls, whose initial foundations were laid down by Mahé de Labourdonnais.
The Triolet Shivala: The longest village on the island, Triolet offers an opportunity to visit the biggest Hindu temple, the Maheswarnath, first built in 1819 in honour of the Gods Shiva, Krishna, Vishnu, Muruga, Brahma and Ganesha.

The Labourdonnais Orchards: Discover a large variety of tropical fruit trees, colourful
and perfumed exotic flowers. Trips on mountain bikes or hiking are possible.

Here we can see the places of importance from the east:

Flacq Market: Flacq is one of the most important villages in Mauritius. This meeting point for inhabitants of the East boasts the country’s largest open air market. The extremely colourful market attracts a large number of people.

The Waterpark Leisure Village:
Enjoy unforgettable moments sliding on the giant chutes, with family or friends. Relaxation and pleasure guaranteed.

Ile aux Cerfs:
Ile aux Cerfs is a paradise for water sports and has the most beautiful beach in Mauritius. You cannot afford to miss this tiny island, delicately poised on the ocean, a real pearl in the Mauritian landscape.

In the South East

Dutch Ruins: At Vieux Grand Port, the oldest settlements in Mauritius, you can see the ruins of the first Dutch fortifications. Excavation work is underway in a bid to uncover an important part of Mauritian history.

Ile aux Aigrettes: Owing to the remarkable work accomplished by the Mauritius Wildlife Fund, the island has become an international standard for the protection of natural resources and endangered species. A few of the world’s rarest birds, including the kestrel, can be seen there. You can also discover the extremely rare Pink Pigeon, the Green Gecko Phelsuma and the Aldabra giant tortoise.

Mahebourg: Mahébourg is one of the main fishing villages on the island. Built on the magnificent Grand Port Bay it was founded in 1804 by the French.

Martello Towers: The Martello Towers represent the scene of the ancient rivalry between old colonial powers and the ingenuity of mankind. They are a milestone in the island’s history; they symbolise the end of slavery and the beginning of Indian immigration.

Domaine du Chasseur: Nestling in the Anse Jonchée hills, the Domaine des Grand Bois has splendid hunting grounds covering an area of 900 hectares. Stags, monkeys and boars live amidst the luxuriant vegetation of the hillside.One can watch a few species of endangered birds, including the kestrel. The Domaine contains four thatched-roof bungalows and a restaurant with a panoramic sea view. Take an opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal of venison and seafood.

Souillac: A small seaside resort along the rugged coast of the Savanne district. A famous feature is the garden overlooking the sea and named after Dr. Charles Telfair. A popular viewpoint is found at the southern end of the village, right on the cliff top : Gris Gris.
In the west

Chamarel: A winding road leads from Case Noyale village to the coloured earths of Chamarel: an undulating landscape of different and contrasting shades of colours. The different shades of blue, green, red and yellow are apparently the result of the erosion of the volcanic ash. The neighbouring waterfalls of Chamarel rise from the moors and the native plant life. The site possesses a rare beauty.

Salt Pans: Owing to the exceptional high level of sunshine the district receives, Tamarin is naturally the heart of salt production in Mauritius.

Casela: Situated in the Rivière Noire district, the bird park stretches over 25 hectares and contains more than 140 bird species from all five continents. Other attractions include fish ponds, tigers, tortoises, monkeys, deer and orchids.

Yemen: Yemen Reserve may not be the largest game reserve on the island, but there is still lots to see. You will be able to get close to the herds of deer, as well as admire some splendid species of Mauritian fauna. A few rustic kiosks available in the reserve provide an unobstructed view of the sea. There you can sip a local punch while watching the sun going down.

Places in the inland

L’Aventure du Sucre: Visit an interactive and ultra modern exhibition situated at the heart of an ancient sugarmill and discover the fascinating history of Mauritius and its sugarcane adventure exposed over 5000 sq meters! Then, let yourself be tempted by our tropical boutik with its unique gifts, souvenirs and tasting of special unrefined sugars as well as local rum. Do not miss the opportunity to relish authentic Mauritian cuisine with refined flavours at our restaurant "Le Fangourin".

Ganga Talao - Grand Bassin: Beyond La Marie and Mare-aux-Vacoas is found one of the two natural lakes of Mauritius. It rests within the crater of an extinct volcano. Ganga Talao is an important pilgrimage site and many Mauritians of the Hindu faith walk there during the Maha Shivaratri festival or the night fasting dedicated to Shiva.

Black River Gorges: This national park of 6,574 hectares was created in 1994 for the protection of Mauritius’ remaining native forests. Visitors can enjoy magnificent landscapes, with endemic plants and rare bird species. A trail leads from the Pétrin information centre to n area of typical plant life and to a conservation area. orchids.

Eureka: An old Creole residence built in 1830, Eureka is an essential place to visit during your stay in Mauritius if you wish to immerse yourself in tropical sweetness

Beaches:
Grand Bay: One of the best areas for sailing, windsurfing and water skiing. La Cuvette beach has been recently upgraded.

Pereybere:This remarkable small cove half-way between Grand Bay and Cap

Malheureux: Malheureux is one of the finest bathing spots on the island.
Belle Mare: Miles and miles of white and spotless beaches from Belle Mare to Trou-d’Eau Douce.

Blue Bay: Blue Bay beach is one of the most popular bathing spots in the South-East of the island. An ideal spot for windsurfing and sailing.

Le Morne & Tamarin: Offer kilometres of beaches for bathing and are very popular for surfing.

Flic en Flac: White beaches fringed with filaos or Casuarina trees.

Activities

Deep Sea Fishing: Mauritius is a paradise for deep sea fishing. Species include the blue or black marlin, all types of sharks, yellow tuna, the Bonitos, the ‘emperor’, the ‘pélerin’, the ‘bécune’ or the barracuda. Huge fishes like the Blue Marlin roam our seas and hunt around the island from November to April, and very often until May. The ocean is 70 metres deep one kilometre away from the coast. Fishing boats can be hired from almost all hotels. The most prestigious deep sea fishing competition is the Marlin World Cup which is hosted in December by La Pirogue Hotel.

Spas: Those seeking well-being during their holidays should be sure to visit the spas, new oases of peace where time stands still. Mauritius offers several world-class items. If the seemingly endless miles of beaches, the natural hospitality of the Mauritian people and the huge range of different types of food are not enough , why not set off on a very special journey. These spas are now regarded as a must, on the tourist itinerary. The islands most famous spas include One&Only Le Saint Géran, the Royal Palm, Hilton, Prince Maurice, Beau Rivage, Oberoi, The Residence, Sofitel Imperial and Dinarobin hotels where holidays also mean fitness and enlightened senses.

Marrige and Honeymoon: The Marital Status Act» specifies that non-residents can get married the day following the posting of the marriage banns. However, the couple must obtain a certificate that the Prime Minister’s Office issues to the Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages stating that they are not Mauritian citizens or Mauritian residents. This certificate can be obtained beforehand by sending a request to the Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages. The document must be accompanied by 2 birth certificate copies of both spouses and of their passports (first three pages), as well as any other document relating to cases of divorce or widowhood. A Marriage can take place in the presence of a Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages or at the hotel. Catholics wishing to get married in Mauritius are requested to contact the Port-Louis Diocese to obtain the necessary

If you are looking for a very special place to spend your honeymoon, Mauritius is definitely the place for you. Every hotel on the island offers extensive wedding and honeymoon packages. They can also help you in organising every single detail of the ceremony. You can choose to have an intimate, private occasion or a more adventurous way of exchanging vows. On a sunny beachside, under the sea or in the sky, Mauritius will transform your wedding or your honeymoon into an unforgettable moment.

Shopping: The island’s reputation as a shopping paradise is enhanced by the diversity and quality of shopping opportunities.The number of tourists-only duty-free shops where passports and air tickets must be shown. Prices are very reasonable. Models of old ships, textiles production, namely for pull-overs and knitwear. Leading brands of shirts, trousers, suits, dresses, suits for women, shorts or swimwear are sold at unbeatable prices. Basketwork, embroidery, pottery, cut stones and recycled glass are very much in demand. Those who love cooking will be able to take back fruit jellies, chillies, and other types of spices and pickles - delicious bits of raw vegetables soaked in oil, spices and chilly. Do not forget to buy some vanilla tea or rum. Only accredited shops are allowed to sell duty-free goods to tourists.

Cuisine

Mauritius is a paradise for the senses, not only for the eyes with its beautiful landscape, but also for the palate. Gastronomes will find a variety of flavours and aromas inherited from the different migrations through its history. Culinary traditions from France, India, China and Africa, the best-known and appreciated cuisines in the world, have been passed on through generations.

Depending on the region, rice or a variety of flat bread called chapattis or roti called farata by the local people, is eaten with curries. The extensive use of spices like saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves and herbs like thyme basil and curry leaves are the common ingredients that provide some powerful, yet subtle, savour. Dal a variety of lentil soups are many and varied according to which type of lentil is used, vegetables and beans. Pickles accompany the dishes. Dholl puri and roti, originally an Indian delicacy have become the fish and chips of Mauritians.

Biryani from Mughal origins is a dish expertly prepared by the muslim community, with meat mixed with spiced rice and potato.

The indian vadai, samosas tomato and onion based dish called Rougaille are spread over everywhere The dish usually consists of meat or seafood (corned beef and salted snoek fish rougaille are very popular with the locals) and all mauritians eat this dish often if not daily. Mauritians have a sweet tooth and make many types of 'gateaux' as they are called. The cakes vary and you can find cakes very much like at home and others similar to Indian sweets like Gulab Jamun and Rasgulla among many others.

General information for tourists

The following are the general informations andinstructions for the new comers.

No vaccinations are required. However a yellow fever vaccination certificate given to the travellers over 1 year of age who arrive from areas where yellow fever cases are reported. Keep an eye on all personal belongings at all times. Be careful when withdrawing money from a cash point. Avoid wearing expensive jewellery. Do not leave anything inside your car. Keep your passports, plane tickets, jewellery of value and large sums of money in safe custody. For sea excursions, do not rent boats with inadequate security standards. During individual sea trips, always notify the person responsible for the boat house. Do not go swimming in areas where it is forbidden. Nudism and topless sunbathing are frowned upon on our public beaches. Hotel are not permitted for nude sunbathing on beaches. Topless sunbathing is sometimes tolerated.

Visa:
A visitor must be in possession of a valid passport and a return or onward ticket. A visitor’s visa is normally granted for a period of two weeks to one month upon arrival. Visitors are strongly recommended to contact the Passport and Immigration Office in Mauritius or the nearest Mauritian Embassy or Consulate. The visa can be extended upon request at the Passport and Immigration Office, Sterling House, 11-19 Lislet Geoffroy Street, Port-Louis.

Hotels:
There are many types of hotels and restaurants in Mauritius according to the weight of our purses. They are: Le Touessrok, Le Sugar Beach Resort, La Pirogue, Le Coco Beach, Belle Mare Plage The Resort, Casuarina Hotel, Le Preskil, Veranda Hotel, Le Coco Beach, Le Meridien, Labourdonnais Waterfront, Le Touessrok, Le Telfair Golf & Spa, La Pirogue, Le Maritim, Sofitel Imperial, Sugar Beach Resort.

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Malta

2009-01-17T00:09:00.001-08:00

Malta

Malta, the tiny Nation, like its compact name, on the Mediterranean waters has small landscape, limited with nearly 320 Sq.Km of area. Rugged landscape and beautiful coastlines, with all facilities of entertainment, are some of the specialties of Malta. Out of the seven islands of this nation, only three are inhabited but all the seven islands have great variety of water sports and recreation.

The turquoise blue waters, white sand beaches are the items which attract tourists all along Europe and other destinations around the world. Although Malta has no river or permanent water ways, the best snorkeling and scuba diving facilities are available in vast coastlines of this country. Here we cannot see thick trees and forest life, but we are surely and greatly attracted by the blue sea and its richness of beauty.

The lighted ferries floating in the sea are a spectacular sight to watch. Although thickly populated are the cities, they have not lost their fervor and flavor among the tourists. The warm Mediterranean climate, numerous bays along the indented coastline of the islands is the place for good harbors as well as a good feast to our eyes. The landscape is characterized by low hills with terraced fields; Walking, Hiking, Climbing and Cycling are the appropriate ways to explore this tiny nation.

Location: Malta in Southern Europe is a group of islands in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily (Italy). The Nearest countries are Italy, Greece in Europe and Libya and Tunisia in Africa. The Capital city is Valletta. The other important, tourist potential and still to explore cities of Malta are – Birkirkara, Qormi, Mosta, Żabbar, Rabat, San Ġwann, Fgura, Żejtun, Sliema and Żebbuġ.

Malta, the vacation destination, has in itself the seaside cliffs and lots of archeological important places. So, since 1960 this place has been famous for cinema shootings. The popular films of Hollywood, The Spy Who Loved Me, Orca, Gladiator, Troy, and The Count of Monte Cristo were shot here.

History: Some accounts say that Malta was inhabited some 6,000 years ago. The historical evidence available clearly pinpoints the occupation of Romans, French and English. Malta was granted to the Knights Hospitalers in 1530 by Hapsburg Charles V and passed to France in 1798 and to Great Britain in 1800. This country was heavily bombed by the Germans in World War II. Though it became independent in 1964 it still remains as part of the British Commonwealth.

To get in: This Island’s international airport is in Luqa. Air Malta has regular connections to many European, North African and Middle Eastern centers. Ryan air fly to and from London Luton, Dublin, Bremen, Pisa, Stockholm (Skavsta), Valencia, Girona and Bari. About millions of tourists use this conveyance to high extent. To get into Malta, there is a wonderful ferry service available in the countries of Italy and Greece. There are frequent fast ferries to the Sicilian port of Catania, Italy.

Destinations:

St John's Co-Cathedral: This medieval marvel of capital city Valletta was erected under the tomb of St.John, the Baptist, and patron saint of the Knights. The special things of this cathedral are the painting by Caravaggio, and the 369 inlaid mosaic marble tombstones that cover its floor. Each tombstone depicts the lives of the Grand Masters of the Order of St John.

Palace of the Grand Master: This massive palace located at Malta, has a history of 500 years. Now it serves as the office of the President and seat of the Maltese Parliament. Unique collection of Gobelin Tapestries to frescoes depicting the Great Siege of 1565 by Perez d'Aleccio that cover the walls of the Halls of St Michael and St George are the special attractions of this historical place.

National Museum of Archaeology: The archaeological museum in Republic Street, Malta, is being treated as the treasure trove of ancient Maltanese history and culture. Items such as pottery, sculptures, statuettes, stone implements and jewelry from the prehistoric, megalithic and temple-building periods are featured here.

Lascaris War Rooms: One of the important destinations of tourists of Malta is Lascaris War Rooms, in Valletta. The Battle of Malta and other events involving the islands during the early years of the Second World War are featured in a series of 17th century tunnels, which were turned into a military operations complex during the war. The complex has been restored and now acts as a museum, with charts, models and dioramas.

Mdina: Mdina, the original capital of Malta before the arrival of the Knights of St John in the middle ages, is a "Must" place of visit. Situated on a rocky out crop about nine miles (15km) west of Valletta at the heart of Mdina is its landmark Baroque Cathedral of St Paul.

Three Cities: By walking around a few miles, we come to "three cities", Malta's main maritime towns merged into a fortified conglomerate. They are Vittoriosa, Fort St Angelo and Cospicua.

St.Mary's Church: It has a miraculous story. During the World War II, a bomb dropped by the Germans penetratd this church's dome but silently sat on the floor of the church, yes, never did it explode! This small incident of great miracle is also beautifully portrayed in painting.

Hagar Qim: The prehistoric temple complex discovered in 1839 at Hagar Qim in western Malta dates back about 3,800 BC, and has the oldest known human structures in the world, The Museum of Archaeology, Gozo, Ggantija Temples, Caves of Xaghra, Dwejra, with its secluded pebbled bathing pool and crystal clear water are really worth seeing.

Activities: Generally, all hotels in Malta have swimming pools. The sea of Malta is very safe and pleasant one for the activities of scuba diving and snorkeling. The moderate sea temperature makes the diving very enjoyable. Wied Iz-Zurrieq is good for night dives. St Marija Caves offer interesting cave diving. The facility for rowing is available in Grand Harbor. And, what more, Windsurfing facilities are also available.

Furthermore, National water polo, Clay pigeon, Skeet shooting, Football, golf, tennis, squash, cricket, polo and horse racing are the great things that really thrill every tourist here.

Cuisine: Obviously, Maltese food is quite humble in nature. It is simply fish and vegetable - based soppa ta' l-armla (widow's soup), which is basically a coarse mash. Arjoli, which is a julienne of vegetables, spiced up and oiled, and to which are added butter beans is a puree made from broad beans and herbs called bigilla.

Maltese sausage is a confection of spicy minced pork, coriander seeds and parsley, wrapped in stomach lining or beanie (simple cheese made from goats’ or sheep milk and rennet, served either fresh, dried or peppered).

Maltese sausage is incredibly versatile and delicious. It can be eaten in any from raw, dried or roasted. The Maltese celebratory meal is fenkata, a feast of rabbit, marinated overnight in wine and bay leaves. The first course is usually spaghetti in rabbit sauce, followed by the rabbit meat stewed or fried.

Hotels: All International hotels of the major chain are spread over here too. The capital Valletta has variety of hotels ranging from “Budget” to “Splurge “ according to what one can afford.

Macau

2009-01-17T00:08:00.001-08:00

Macau

Located to the west of the estuary of Pearl River, between mainland China and the Southern China Sea. It is 60 kms from Hong Kong and 145 kms from the city of Guangzhou. The name of Macau is derived from the word Magao (A-Ma Temple), which were shrines dedicated to Mazu, a sacred sea goddess respected by Macau people. In the middle of sixteenth century, when the Portuguese first set foot there, one of the officers asked a fisherman the name of the land. The man misunderstanding the officer's meaning, answered 'Magao' - the name of A-Ma Temple in front them. The word became the Portuguese name for the land and for nearly 400 years, the Portuguese ruled here prior to Macau's official return to the People's Republic of China on December 20, 1999.

Climate:
Macau features a long summer period. January to February is the coldest period in Macau when the cold air from Siberia going down via the northern continent and arriving at the peninsular. So woolen clothes and overcoats are necessary for the travelers. Generally the months from July to September might be filled with frequent cyclones. Travelers should to avoid the typhoon season.

People: There is a total population of 469,800 in Macau of which 95% are Chinese, the remaining 5% being Portuguese and other westerners. The majority resides on the Macau Peninsular. Both Chinese and Portuguese are the official languages in Macau. Cantonese is popular among residents and most people can understand Mandarin. English is also widely used on most occasions, especially in tourist areas.

Religions:
Various religions from both the western and oriental world coexist harmoniously in Macau. Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism with other traditional Chinese beliefs dominate among the Chinese residents of the city. The Buddhist disciples form the largest religious group in Macau. Roman Catholicism and other Christian denominations became established here from the early days when the Portuguese first set foot on the land. Baroque churches and chapels throughout the downtown area in Macau are testimonials to the vicissitude of the city.

Connectivity:
Macau comprises the Macau Peninsular and the outlying islands of Taipa and Coloane. Popular sightseeing places that form part of a traveler's itinerary are spread all over the Macau Peninsular. There are three bridges connecting Macau to Taipa namely Macau-Taipa Bridge, the Friendship Bridge and Sai Van Bridge. The Friendship Bridge leads directly to Macau International Airport located on the Island of Taipa. The Sai Van Bridge, is the first cable-stayed bridge in Macau. This double deck bridge has six lanes on the upper deck and four on the lower, which will open whenever a typhoon hits the city. The two islands are connected by a causeway in the middle of which is the Lotus Bridge that connects the islands to Guangdong Province.

Attractions:
In the city there are numerous historical and cultural heritages. Popular sightseeing places that form part of a traveler's itinerary are spread all over the Macau Peninsular. Largo do Senado, the splendid main square with surrounding simple, elegant Portuguese and baroque style buildings is the busiest downtown area of the city. In the north, the city Ruins of St. Paul's, a former screen wall of St. Paul's Church and the Monte Fort, one of the best-preserved forts in Macau. The Museum of Macau, to the right of the ruins, tells all stories on the city's past. Situated at the base of Penha Peninsula in the southwest part of the city is A-Ma Temple, built in the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644), which is dedicated to the sacred goddess A-Ma. There are many luxurious hotels housing various gambling casinos and these venues are packed with people from all over the world when the night comes. Numerous museums are situated here. Which tells us Macau's culture. Those are Macau Wine Museum, Grand Prix Museum,Macau Art Museum, etc.

In Macau, we can find Chinese temples, catholic churches; ancient forts and other historical relics within a modern environment that bear testimony to a cultural blend of east and west.

In the central part of Macau peninsula, Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro, a main downtown thoroughfare in the southwestern part of the city, is called San Ma Lo (New Street) in Chinese by its residents is located. With the main square, Largo do Senado and several affiliated streets, this area is the most popular shopping and tourist part of the city.

The Monte Fort, one of the best-preserved forts in Macau can be seen from the main square and the Ruins of St. Paul's, standing close to the Fort, is a local landmark. A walk northward along St. Paul's Street leads to the façade of St. Paul's Church, which was devastated by fire in 1835, with its elegant reliefs that illustrate Bible stories. An underground tomb behind the ruins houses the remains of Catholic martyrs. The Museum of Macau, to the right of the ruins, should not be missed as it has an excellent exhibition of items telling much of the history of the city.

Northwest of the St. Paul's Ruin, is Camoes Garden and Grotto, a memorial garden dedicated to Louis de Camoes, a famous Portuguese poet who lived four hundred years ago. In the eastern part of the city is Guia Hill, the highest point of Macau on which is perched Guia Fort and Guia Lighthouse. The Guia Fort built in 1637 is the second largest in the city and the Lighthouse was the first of its kind in the China's coastal area built in 1865. This highland offers a panoramic view of the city and seascapes.

Two blocks southwest of the Flora Garden is a memorial hall dedicated to Dr. Sun Yet-sen. The memorial hall was built by family members of Dr. Sun and the exhibits include a collection of documents, pictures and other historical records of this great man. Proceed a further two blocks to the south and turn right and you will find the entrance to Lou Lim Iok Garden, a famous garden that has been created in the style for which Suzhou is noted.

In the western Part of Macau, there are many baroque Roman Catholic churches dating from 18th century. Notable among them is St Augustine's, St. Lawrence's, the Chapel of St. Joseph's Seminary and the Headquarters of the Macau SAR. These show much of the Catholic influence on the city. Situated at the base of Penha Peninsula is A-Ma Temple, built in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). The temple is dedicated to the sacred goddess A-Ma, which later was transliterated into 'Macau' by the Portuguese and so became the Portuguese name for Macau.

In the southern Part of the city near the Outer Harbor is a newly-developed area which is the result of reclamation from the sea. Tourist attractions in this area are devoted to modern things. The Art Museum houses fascinating exhibitions of Chinese traditional calligraphy, paintings, porcelain works and modern art works, the Grand Prix Museum and Macau Wine Museum are located here as well as the Macau Art Center, where ceremonial concerts and events are held.

The only traditional feature is the 20-meter high Kun Iam Statue, connected by a bridge to the waterfront, opposite the Avenida Dr Sun Yat Sen. The 'lotus seat' is a two storey building housing an exhibition hall and a library dedicated to religious culture and resources with collections of religious books in Chinese, English, Portuguese and other languages.

In Taipa, the museum is a wonderful place for Portuguese and Chinese furniture. It provides tourists with an opportunity to learn about the fashionable lifestyle of Portuguese celebrities. The island of Coloane boasts that it is a paradise for people who like a tranquil environment and wish to have a break from the bustling city life. The Hac Sa Bay (Black Sand Bay) is one of Macau's well-known seaside bathing places. Tam Kung Miu, a temple dedicated to Tam Kung, a Taoist god of seafarers is situated in the town. The Museum of Nature & Agriculture has a collection of documents and exhibitions regarding the local fauna and flora as well as the geographical nature of the outlying islands.

Kun Iam Temple is the most impressive one of the three most famous temples in Macau. It is also known as a history witness of the signing of the first Sino-America treaty in 1844. Lin Fung Temple is well-known for the national hero, Lin Zexu who enacted the complete campaign against opium. Sun Yat-Sen Park, one of the forty-three Sun Yat-Sen Parks in the world, was built in 1987 for the friendship between China and Portugal.

Cuisine:
Macau is the blend of gourmands with a wide range of delicious cuisines from all over the world including unparalleled Macau-style Portuguese cuisine, traditional Cantonese cuisine, exotic food from Italy, France, Brazil, India, Japan, and Korea. Moreover, the well-known Macau dim sum delicacies should no one to miss. The Pastéis de Nata (a Portuguese-style egg tart) that originated on the outlying island of Coloane is the featured snack of the city and Margaret's Café & Nata offer the best. All kinds of dim sum ranging from almond cake, chicken cakes, cashew cookies, sesame crackers, egg and cheese rolls are served in the many Portuguese café and they are good choices for gifts of families or friends.

Festivals and Holidays
The presence of multi polarity of Macau’s heritage, this city has all sorts of festivals and holidays. Traditional Chinese festivals, local folk and religious feasts and great international events and activities entertain travelers all year long. The traditional Chinese Lunar New Year (Spring Festival) is the greatest celebration in Macau. It is a New-Year welcoming and family gathering time when people get together for a grand family feast. The streets are heavily decorated with lanterns, flowers and other auspicious ornaments. All sorts of celebrative activities such dragon and lion dances, art performances and fireworks display turn the street into a sea of joy.

Dragon Boat Festival (Double Fifth Festival) is another important Chinese festival. The annual Macau International Dragon Boat Races are very popular in Southeast Asia. The exciting boat races attract crowds from all over the region. On the days of religious and folk festivals, such as Procession of the Passion of Our Lord, the God Jesus, Feast of the God Tou Tei, A-Ma Festival, Feast of Buddha, Feast of Kuan Tai and other events, ceremonial activities are held with all sorts of elaborate parades, music and dancing performances, and opera displays.

A variety of colorful tourist events such as Macau Int'l Music Festival, Macau Arts Festival and the Macau International Fireworks Display Contest are held by Macau tourist organizations and companies as well.

General tips for the tourists

Travelers to Macau are required to obtain a visa for entry admission together with valid passports and tourist credentials. Passports should be valid for at least 30 days beyond the planned period of stay in Macau.

Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cape Verde, Croatia, Czech, Cyprus, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lebanon, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Mali, Malta, Mongolia, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovak, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Tanzania and the United Kingdom (6 months) a stay up to 90 days free of visa .

Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, India, Indonesia, Kiribati, Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, Namibia, New Zealand, Philippines, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, the United States of America and Uruguay for a stay of up to 30 days.

The Nationals of China with valid Macau entry/depart documents, including residents of Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and overseas Chinese The 'Hong Kong Identity Card', 'Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card' or 'Hong Kong Reentry Permit' holders a maximum period of one year Entry to neighboring cities in mainland China
To enter neighboring Chinese provinces and cities, such as Guangzhou, Shenzhen or Zhuhai, passports are required to be valid for at least 60 days and a visa must be obtained which together with other travel document requirements are as same as for those who travel to China when entering via Bejing, Shanghai or Hong Kong

Any travelers can bring any non-dutiable or not-to-declared items with the total value of less than 10,000.00 MOP. Any travelers can bring the following items in appropriate quantity for personal use. 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 200 tobacco or any of them with a total less than 250 gms one litre of spirits, garment, jewelries or sports articles for personal use 1 camera plus 5 films, 1 video camera plus 2 films; 1 video record, 1 telescope, 1 portable disc player plus 10 discs; 1 portable radio& recorder, 1 portable typing machine; 1 PC for personal use only

There are no export duties in Macau. Antiques, gold, jewelry, radios and cameras as well as other items are all duty free. However, it should be noted that the Hong Kong SAR customs authorities restrict visitors on entry to a duty free allowance of one liter of spirits plus 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco.

The currency unit of Macau is PATACA with denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 Patacas in banknotes and 10, 20, 50 avos and 1, 2, 5 and 10 Patacas in coins. Hong Kong dollars are readily accepted everywhere in Macau. Most hotel rates are generally quoted only in Hong Kong dollars. The rate is fluctuates with the currency market. The exchange rate is about MOP$103 = HK$100 and One Hong Kong dollar is considered the same value of its Macau equivalent in practice. Roughly eight Patacas is equivalent to one US Dollar. There is no restriction on the importation of foreign currency.

Macau Hotels

1.Hotel Lisboa, Macau
2. Regency Hotel, Macau
3. Pousada De Sao Tiago, Macau
4. Best Western Hotel Taipa, Macau
5. Hotel Sintra, Macau

Lisbon

2009-01-17T00:07:00.001-08:00

Lisbon
Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal, one of the main countries indulged in the exploration of the other world. This beautiful city is the largest city of Portugal and has a splendid history of 20, 000 years of flourishing. Situated at the point where the river Tagus flows in to the Atlantic Ocean. The neighbouring country is Spain.

The city of Lisbon is rich in Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, Baroque, Traditional Portuguese architecture. And the modern and Post-Modern constructions can be found all over the city. The monuments, museums and boulevards are all the items, adds the ingredients to the beauty of Lisbon.

It is now the important city of Europe, developed mainly due to its economic development. Now an important seat of European Union, houses European Monitering Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) and the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA).

Romans, Germanics, Moores, Brazilians, Napoleon, the Crusaders were also fought for the occupation. The city of Lisbon was reconstructed many times by the wars and earthquakes. The Earthquake happened in 1755 caused heavy damage to this city. The important monuments and buildings were damaged in that devastation.

In the World War II, Lisbon was one of the cities kept neutral and attracted many country people who came here for brief stint and refuge.

Generally, Lisbon affected by the European climate. In the spring season, the temperature is between 10 degree to 27 degree C. In the summer the heat will be high between 16 degree C to 38 degree C. Autumn is the season, tourists mostly arrive at Lisbon.

The tourist attractions of Lisbon: This city, its seven hills, the neatly structured houses and villas on the hills, the beautiful river Tagus are the immediate beauties. The small, medium and big ferries sailing in the river is a gifted scene of tourists. There are many places which cannot be seen anywhere in the world are available here. It is the added criteria to the beauty of Lisbon. Here we can see some of them briefly.

Vascoda gama Bridge: This, 17.2 Kms long, 30 metre breadth transport bridge is one of the longest bridge in Europe. Six lanes of traffic, at a speed of 120 Km/hr permitted in this bridge. It was opened due to less the traffic in the bridge 25 de Abril bridge. Many tourists are enjoying this route to travel other side of river Tagus. Seeing it from the city’s landscapes is also a great feast to our eyes.

Belem Tower: This fort like tower symbolizes the age of Discovery. It was built in 1510, located at Belem locality. In 1580, when Lisbon was invaded by Spanish troops in the course of a struggle for the Portuguese throne, the Tower fought and surrendered to the Duke of Alba. In the following centuries the Tower was mainly used as a prison and as a custom house. It was declared as a National Monument in 1910.

Lisbon Castle: This castle is located on the highest hill of the seven hills in Lisbon. It was constructed in 18th century. Now also we can see the splendourous beauty of this castle.

Gare de Oriente: Garo de Opera is one of the main transport hubs in Lisbon. It was designed by Santiago Calatrava and finished in 1998 for the Expo '98 world's fair in Parque das Nações, where it is located. It houses Lisbon Metro station, a high-speed, commuter and regional train hub, a local, national and international bus station, a shopping centre and a police office.

Parque das Nacoes: The National Park of leisure, commercial and residential area in Lisbon. This area got its current name and more transformations occurred such as the new Vasco da Gama shopping mall, the Lisbon's International Fair complex, hotels and many new office and residential buildings.

The Vasco da Gama Tower: The 145 m/476 ft-high lattice tower in Lisbon, built over the Tagus river. It is named after Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. The architecture of the tower was by Leonor Janeiro, Nick Jacobs and SOM. The steel structure, representing the sail of a caravel, was assembled by engineering company Martifer. The tower was built in 1998 for the “Expo 98” World's Fair. At the 120 m/394 ft-level, there was an observation deck and, just below it, a luxury panoramic restaurant. At the base of the tower was a three-storey building that served as the European Union Pavilion during the expo.

Museums: The most famous museums in Lisbon are the National Museum of Ancient Art. The other items are, the Museu do Azulejo (Museum of Portuguese-style Tile Mosaics), the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian (Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, Oceanário de Lisboa, , the Museu Nacional do Traje e da Moda (National Museum of Costume and Fashion), the Berardo Collection Museum (Modern Art) at the Belém Cultural Center, the Museu Nacional dos Coches (National Coach Museum, containing the largest collection of royal coaches in the world) and the Museu da Farmácia (Pharmacy Museum).

Activities: There are vast activities of amusement and entertaing is available for the tourists. The numerous beaches hosts many types of entertainments. Night life in Lisbon is widely popular in European countries. The recent attraction of Lisbon is gays parade and gay festival.

To get there: Lisbon International Airport is the only international Airport of Lisbon. From there we can get many luxuries buses and taxies are available to reach Lisbon. Lisbon trams, metro rail system and ferry transport are the mode of transport.

Culture and Cuisine: The culture of the Lisbon people plays important role of the life style of this city. Generally the people of Lisbon behave smoothly with foreigners and tourists. The cafes and restaurants spread over the lawns and streets of Lisbon is a quite normal. We can enjoy the beauty of the city, by sitting in this places. We can get Portuguese and European and Asian food items here.

Libya

2009-01-17T00:06:00.000-08:00

Libya

If one really wishes to enjoy the desert life and its thrilling experiences, the ultimate place that uncommon one is undoubtedly Libya. The Saharan desert and its all sorts of desert tourism activities attract thousands of tourists around the world in all months of calendar. The coastline of Libya with an elongated length of as many as 1,770 kms has also wide and vast varieties of beach life to certain limited level of entertainment, because of the strict Islamic laws followed by the people. Obviously, desert and beach are the two important items of tourist activities in Libya.

90 % of Libya’s land b being desert, the desert wonders themselves are the unique things to enjoy here. The moving sand dunes, vast sand carpet to the extent of earth are the special items of Libya.

The Capital city Tripoli is famous for its grand old mosques, mammoth bathhouses, world famous universities, museums and libraries. The interior parts of Libya tell us the stories of its former occupants and rulers of Roman, Italian and the English.

This is the land of the famous personalities of valor and vigil, who saved the nation opposing the occupation of Italian, and a few of such great personalities are Omar Mukhtar, Sulaiman al-Barouni, Abd al-Nabi Bilkhair and so on. Their attempts to thwart the foreign atrocities are world famous and spoken of in praise even today.

Location: Libya is a country in North Africa on the Mediterranean Sea. It has a permanent border with Egypt in the east and Tunisia to the west. It also has land borders with Algeria, Chad, Niger, and Sudan.

Get in: Libya has 120 airports in small and big range of size. The Capital city Tripoli is being served by most of the major European and Arab airline's flights. The Libyan Airlines service touches the major cities of Africa, Europe and certain other important cities of the World. The cities of Heathrow, Paris CDG, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Rome have the frequent flight connection with Libya. In addition, weekly and bi-weekly flights are also available with Milan, Manchester, Vienna, Alexandria, etc.

Now, we have to discuss one thing. That is, passports and visas are required for entry into Libya for all nationalities except nationals of Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Mauritania, Morocco, Syria and Tunisia. Generally, the Americans and the people of Israel and those who want to visit Israel via Libya are not permitted. Maybe, the bitter relationship with these countries is the reason. However, there is no strict ban on the inflow of the people of these two countries.

The land connectivity with that of the other countries Tunisia and Egypt is important to note.

History: Libya was once under the domination of Carthage, Rome, Arabia, and Spain. The Ottoman Empire, which prevailed here from 1551 to 1911, was subsequently seized by Italy and became an Italian colony during the World War II. It became an independent Kingdom in 1951.

In 15 years of kingdom, in 1969 Colonel Muammar al-Qaddafi took power in a coup d'état, established a new socialist dictatorship in Libya. He has been the ruler of this rich nation of natural resources since 1969 and he is still going great guns.

Strict but some lenient Islamic laws are being followed here. The people of Libya give much importance to the Supreme leader Qaddafi and his words. Obviously, this is one of the reasons for the long - standing rule of Qaddafi. The adult Suffrage is 18 years and voting is universal and compulsory.

The estimate taken in July 2007 shows, the total population is 6,036,914. The major ethnic groups have been divided into Berber and Arab 97 percentage, other 3% including Greeks, Maltese, Italians, Egyptians, Pakistanis, Turks, Indians, and Tunisians. 97% of people are Sunni Muslim 97 percentage and others 3%.

Arabic is the national language but Italian, English are widely understood in the major cities barring the remote villages. According to the 2003 estimates available, generally, the total literacy ratio is 82.6%. Of them, 92.4% of males and 72 % of females can read and write. The Libyan law system is generally a mixed one of Italian, French and Islamic law systems.

Climate: October and November, when the skies are clear and the temperature mild, and recommended as the best months to visit Libya. March through early May is fit for travel. Hot, dry, dust-laden ghibli is a southern wind lasting one to four days in spring and fall. There is no specific time for the dust storms and sandstorms.

Culture: The people of Libya spend their leisure in the beaches with family. There are only a few theatres in Libya's cities. For some years back, there was no public theatres at all. Tradition of folk culture is still alive and well preserved. Various kinds of Arab music such as Andalusi music, locally known as Maluf, Chabi and Arab classical music are popular.

During the month of Ramadan, eating and drinking in public is forbidden. Swimwear should be restricted to beaches, and women should dress modestly, and avoid Arab gatherings where women are not permitted. Homosexuality is illegal and extramarital sexual relationships are altogether forbidden.

In addition, any type of criticism of the Libyan Government, Islam and the country itself is never tolerated. Libya is one of the strictest countries in terms of a ban on alcohol and drugs, and nor should be brought into the country, though smoking is very common.
The Tuareg live in the southern, Saharan part of the country, and have their own distinctive folk music. There is little or no pop music industry anywhere. Among the Tuareg, women are the musicians. They play a one-stringed violin called the anzad, as well as a variety of drums.

One is bound to wonder in seeing the collections and preservation of the archaeological sites, in Leptis Magna, which is widely considered one of the best preserved Roman archaeological sites in the world. Tripoli has good museums and archives. These include the Government Library, the Ethnographic Museum, the Archaeological Museum, the National Archives, the Epigraphy Museum and the Islamic Museum. The Jamahiriya Museum, built in consultation with UNESCO, is regarded as the country’s most famous one.

Attractions: Apart from the amenities of beach life, the land itself has many historical and traditional monuments and memorials as well. Murzuq castle, from which sultans of Fezzan once ruled, is situated in southern Libya. The ruins of a theatre in the ancient Roman city of Leptis Magna and Tripoli Tania are the prime and best historical sites of attraction in Libya. The amazing past and the very mentality to keep it as present and modern are the wonderful or rather unique things in Libya.

Cyrene: The remnants of this Greek city of Cyrenaica, is filled with temples, tombs, agora, gymnasium and theatre originally modeled on those at Delphi. Apart from these glimpses of Greek ruins, the very location high on a bluff well overlooking the sea is really stunning.

Al-Saraya al-Hamra, known as Tripoli Castle or Red Castle, contains a labyrinth of courtyards, alleyways and houses. The total area of the castle is about 13,000 sq meters, including the area surrounded by high defensive walls now handed over to the museum.

Shopping: Shopping and sight seeing are limited in Libya. Anyhow, we can get certain wonderful items that are cannot get in any other countries. In the medina, a small carpet bazaar, traditional jewelry shops and general crafts and souvenirs can be had. Ben Zeglam Shop in the carpet bazaar has good quality Libyan pottery, Tuareg silver and local rugs. Other shops in Souk al-Turk sell traditional cotton clothing, wedding fabrics and gold jewelry.

European-style clothing can be purchased in the arcaded streets of the downtown area. Selection of postcards, travel books, fiction and coffee-table books on Libya and other countries has been made both easy and interesting here.

Eat: Surprisingly, it is too hard to find a traditional Libyan restaurant anywhere in Tripoli. It is only the western-style cuisine that is served in most restaurants. Tea is the most common drink in Libya. Green tea and "red" tea are served almost everywhere from small cups, usually sweetened. Mint is sometimes mixed in with the tea, especially after meals.

General tips to the travellors:

Generally, a visit to Libya trouble – free. However, please avoid the areas bordering Chad and Sudan, because of the instability prevailing in that region.
Visitors and residents are not permitted to travel either in the interior or to the border areas without an officially sanctioned guide or specific permission from the concerned Libyan authorities.

Prior permission (a desert pass) to travel to the desert regions from the Libyan authority is essential. Libya too shares with the rest of the North Africa region a threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate and against civilian targets, including the places frequented by the foreigners. Therefore, proper care must be taken and presence of mind applied in this trip.

Visitors in general are advised to keep away from the political gatherings.

Java

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Java

Beautiful islands, green landscapes, both active and inactive volcanoes, colonial-style buildings, grand harbors, natural waterways, the great Hindu, Buddhist and Islam cultures, imprints of Dutch, English, Japanese and Indians are all mixed up in this island city. We can witness and enjoy these different types and styles of Java as a whole when we enter this island city.

The crystal clear, turquoise blue waters of the Indian Ocean, white sand beaches, numerous uninhabited islands and archipelagoes are a few among many that attract millions of tourists all over the world.
The availability of all sorts of beach life and night life is the added advantage of Java, which are enjoyable to the travelers of the World for ever. Ramayana ballets, Bull fights, dance and music performances and arts and crafts exhibitions are also the ones that fascinate all sorts of tourist who want to explore the South East Asian nation's island city.

Bandung, the Capital city of West Java, is famous for nightlife entertainments, restaurants, and cheap fashion goods and so on. Bogor, the area which lies in Java was once the summer capital of the Dutch, known for its botanical garden and beautiful palace. The historical city Cirebon has itself the remnants of the past history and the present progress as well. It is regarded as one of the cultural spots of Indonesia. For the economy and for the business activities, Semarang, the port city contains several old buildings and inspiring museums.

History: Some accounts portray the picture of this island's human inhibition to the period dating back some 800,000 years ago. The Indian traders touched this islands sand in the 1st century AD. The Majapahit dynasty was founded in eastern Java in 1293, and then in the 16th century, it fell to the hands of Muslim rulers. In 1619 the Dutch East India Company took control of Batavia (Jakarta) and extended its influence. They ruled this country and its beautiful city Java till 1949. For some brief time this country was under the control of Japanese and then got independence in 1950. It was once the center of Hindu civilization and subsequently converted in to Islam after the 16th century.

Weather: This island city has many tiny islands in itself and different weather and climatic conditions. Generally the climate in Java is same, a minimum temperature of 23°C (74°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F). October to April is the rainy season.

Location: Indonesia is made up of five main islands – Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, Kalimantan and Irian Java and 30 smaller archipelagos and its unique Java is a place of wonderful sight seeing and entertainment indeed.
Being located in the country of Indonesia, one of the Islamic countries of the world, Java retains its name for the tourists friendly and people polite. Java, the most populated island in the world is located in northwest region of Java.

To Get in: The majority of all the International airlines such as Air Asia, SQ, Qantas, MAS, Cathay Pacific, PAL, Thai International, JAL, KAL, Eva Air and Air India, renders flight services to Java from all destinations of the world. The domestic airlines are Garuda, Lion Air, Mandala and Sriwijaya Air planes touch the cities of Java. Certain important cities of Java are Jakarta, Bandung, Semarang, Surabaya and Yogyakarta.

Furthermore, ferry, passenger ship services are also available. High-speed ferries run between Sumatra and Malaysia. The most popular route is Belawan (Medan)–Penang. There is a daily sea and rail service between Belawan and Penang (west Malaysia) operated by National Railroad of Indonesia.

Destinations: The tourists touching the soil of Java have wide options in the destinations full of wonders and amusements of the nature. Anyer Beach, all activities such as Jet Ski, Speed Boat, Para sailing and other aquatic sports are also available here.

Borobudur - the largest ancient Buddhist temple, one of the world’s seven wonders in Central Java, has survived Gunung Merapi's ash flows and terrorists’ bombs. A symmetrical Stupa constructed suing two million block stones on some 1200 years ago still amazes every viewer.

Mount Anak Krakatoa - new active volcano, sinking island (Banten). Actually, the Krakatoa / Krakatau belong to Bandar Lampung, a province of Sumatra. But it is easier to reach Krakatoa from Java than from Sumatra and it is part of the Ujung Kulon national park in the south west of Java and so Krakatoa is implemented in Java section. Krakatoa is one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes located in the strait between Sumatra and Java. With devastating effects this volcano erupted just over a century ago in 1883, bringing its fine ashes with the wind streams as far away as over New York City, whereas the eruption's tidal waves reached the American West Coast.

Mount Bromo – This is the region where one of the last pockets of Javanese Hindus is to be found, Mount Tangkuban Parahu - ancient volcano, located in West Java is a spectacular place to know and wonder at the fury of the Mother Nature.

Pelabuhan Ratu - Beautiful beach on south Sukabumi, located in West Java, Prambanan - great Hindu temple, Ujung Kulon – colorful national park situated in Banten are a few peaceful destinations of Java.

Furthermore, The National Monument tower 140m (450ft) above the Merdeka Square is crowned with a ‘flame’ plated in pure gold. The Central Museum, Portuguese Church, The modern Istiqlal Mosque in the city center, Antiques market on Jalan Surabaya and batik factories in the Karet are the kept in the list of important destinations in Java.

Other attractions: Puppet shows, the Ramayana Ballet, Java's most Spectacular dance drama, is performed at the outdoor theatre at the Prambanan temple complex near Yogya on four successive nights twice a month from May to September. Jakarta Fair in June - July includes carnival attractions and cultural events in celebration of Jakarta's being founded on 22 June. The four day celebration for Buddhist Vaicak at Borobudur is special with dance and music performances and arts and crafts exhibits.

Caution: Last but not least, we are not supposed to forget the Massive earth quake and its cruel cousin, the killer Tsunami. Indonesia lies on the quake prone area of the tectonic plates of the earth. So one has to be cautious and vigilant till remains anywhere in Indonesia. The most common and unfortunate problem to the tourists in general here in Java is theft and pick - pocketing. So, keep your belongings intact. Avoid crowds and kissing in public places which may attract a great deal of unwanted attention inviting problems. Muslim customs, especially those concerning female clothes, should be observed.

Sumatra

Sumatra, the province of Indonesia, is famous for its peculiar wild life and plant life for the last generations. But, the Sumatra nowadays spells among the people of world with fear, because of its unpredictable earthquake and Tsunami like the ones that killed more than half million people in the Indian Ocean countries.

The tourism industry was heavily damaged by the killer Tsunami and aftermath shocking frequently occurs in this region and threatens the people of the region. Sumatra is the place; where we can see any enjoy certain types of species of fauna and flora which no one can see anywhere else in the world.

The island is home for the species including: Sumatran Pine, Rafflesia arnoldii (world's largest individual flower), Titan arum (world’s tallest and largest inflorescence flower), Sumatran Tiger, Sumatran Orangutan, Sumatran Rhinoceros, Sumatran Elephant, Sumatran Striped Rabbit, Malayan Tapir, Malayan Sun Bear, Bornean Clouded Leopard, and many birds and butterflies.

The tourist worthy Sumatra has in itself lots of entertainment and amusements, by its vast beaches, mountains, uninhabited islands, volcanoes, plains and waters of the Indian Ocean. Just for these the world population comes to this area. The sulfur-spouting crater of a resting volcano, thick rainforests, and Jungle treks are the quite interesting items of Sumatra.

Location: This Island of western Indonesia is the Indian Ocean south of the Malay Peninsula. It is one of the Sunda Islands and the second largest island of Indonesia. To the southeast is Java, separated by the Sunda Strait. To the north is the Malay Peninsula, separated by the Straits of Malacca. To the east is Borneo, across the Karimata Strait. The west of the island is the Indian Ocean itself.

History: In the 7th century A.D. the powerful Hindu-Sumatran kingdom of Sri Vijaya flourished under the house of Sailendra. By the 14th century, Sumatran supremacy had waned, and the island fell under the Javanese kingdom of Majapahit. The Arabs, who might have arrived as early as the 10th century, established the sultanate of Achin (now Aceh), which reached its height in the 17th century and controlled most of the island.

The first European to visit Sumatra was Marco Polo, who was there briefly c.1292. Following the Portuguese, who came in 1509, the Dutch arrived in 1596 and gradually gained control of all the native states including Achin. The British had brief control over parts of the island in the late 18th and early 19th cent. The Achinese (Acehnese) launched a rebellion in 1873 and were not subdued by the Dutch until 1904. Indonesian got independence in 1949.

Weather: The daytime temperatures occasionally reach 30°C (86°F) on the coast, but the weather is generally cooler inland around the mountains. The dry season runs from May to September. The timing of the wet season is hard to predict.

To get in: Medan, as the largest city on the island, has the most flights including many international services to Singapore and Malaysia. Palembang, Pekambaru and Padang also have both domestic and some international services. Ferries between Penang and Medan; Melaka and Dumai; and Singapore and Pekanbaru via the Indonesian island of Bintam.

Destinations: Bohorok Orang-Utan Centre, the Bukit Lawang's famous Orang-Utan Centre was set up in 1973. It is the breeding place of Orang-Utan monkeys. Danau Maninjau is a volcanic lake surrounded by verdant rice fields. Gunung Sibayak is probably the most accessible of Indonesia's volcanoes. There are three ways to tackle the climb, depending on your energy level.

JAKARTA

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JAKARTA

The name Indonesia is composed of two Greek words: “Indos” which means Indian and “nesos” meaning islands. Jakarta is the capital capital city of the Republic of Indonesia, is a special territory enjoying the status of a province, consisting of Greater Jakarta, covering an area of 637.44 square km. Located on the northern coast of West Java, it is the center of government, commerce and industry. Indonesia is the fourth most populous country in the world. Consisting of five main islands (Sumatra, Jawa, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, and Papua) with 33 provinces, 30 smaller archipelagos, it has a total of 17,508 islands of which about 6,000 are inhabited. Stretches 5,150 km between the Australian and Asian continental mainland and divides the Pacific and Indian Oceans at the Equator.

The country shares land borders with Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Malaysia. Other neighboring countries include Singapore, the Philippines, Australia, and the Indian territory of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

DistrictsJakarta is administratively divided into the following unimaginatively
named districts. Central Jakarta an aptly named district and the site of Jakarta's symbol, the National Monument. Presidential palace, office buildings,hotels, Mangga Dua shopping center, Menteng residential area. West Jakarta, Jakarta's Chinatown, museums, trading centers, nightlife entertainment centers, shopping centers and malls. South Jakarta - shopping centers, malls, restaurants, hotels, nightlife entertainment center (Blok M), Senayan sports complex, residential areas. East Jakarta - Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, Utan Kayu art community, Cibubur camping ground, industrial parks, Halim Perdanakusuma airport.
North Jakarta - Beautiful Thousand Islands, Ancol Bayfront City, and Kelapa Gading shopping centers.

Suburbs:
Tangerang - Soekarno Hatta airport, golf course, industrial parks.
Bogor - Beautiful palace, botany garden, golf course.
Depok, Bogor - Universities.
Bekasi - Industrial parks.
Canalside slums in East CipinangJakarta's nickname among expats is the Big

History: The first Europeans to arrive were the Portuguese. They got permission from the Hindu king Pajarajan to erect a godown in 1522. Control was still firmly in local hands, and in 1527 the city was conquered by Prince Fatahillah, a Muslim prince from Cirebon, who changed the name to Jayakarta. By the end of the 16th century, however, the Dutch (led by Jan Pieterszoon Coen) had pretty much taken over the port city, and the razing of a competing English fort in 1619 secured their hold on the island. In 1740, there was a rebellion by Chinese slaves against Dutch. The rebellion was put down harshly with the massacre of thousands of Chinese slaves. In 1795, the Netherlands were invaded and occupied by France, and on March 17, 1798, the Batavian Republic, a satellite state of France, took over both VOC debts and assets.

In August 26, 1811, a British expedition led by Lord Minto defeated the French and Dutch troops in Jakarta, leading to a brief occupation of Indonesia by the British (led by Sir Stamford Raffles of Singapore fame) in 1811-1816. In 1815, after the Congress of Vienna, Indonesia was officially handed over from the British to the Dutch government.

The name Jakarta was adopted as a short form of Jayakarta when the city
was conquered by the Japanese in 1942. After the war, the Indonesian war
of independence followed, with the capital briefly shifted out to
Yogyakarta after the Dutch attacked. The war lasted until 1949, when the
Dutch accepted Indonesian independence and handed back the town, which
became Indonesia's capital again.

Airport: Soekarno Hatta International Airport (IATA: CGK), at Tangerang,
Banten. All international and nearly all domestic flights land here 20 km
(12 miles) to the northwest of the city. The unintuitive airport code
comes from Cengkareng, a district near the airport. The Soekarno Hatta airport has two terminals, further split up into subterminals. Terminal 1 (A-B-C) is used by domestic airlines except Garuda, while Terminal 2 is used by all international airlines (D-E) and Garuda domestic flights only (F).

Languages: In Indonesia, more than 583 languages and dialects spoken in the archipelago. There normally belong to the 350 different ethnic
groups of the population. Bahasa Indonesia is the national language, written in Roman script and based on European orthography. In all tourist destination areas English is the number one foreign languages fairly spoken and written.

Food: Food items of the Chinese, Japanese and Korean food are available in major parts of Indonesia. You can find Jakartan versions of many dishes, often tagged with the label betawi (Indonesian for "Batavian"). Sop iga sapi, beef spare rib soup that takes a simple Dutch dish and piles on Indonesian spices. Soto betawi, coconut milk broth with beef tendons, intestines, tripe.
Kerak telor, omelette from egg cooked with glutinous rice and served
with shredded coconut and a dried shrimp topping. Ketoprak, rice roll, tofu, bean sprout, crackers in peanut sauce.

The staple food of most of Indonesia is “nasi” (rice). On some of the island in eastern Indonesia, staple food traditionally ranged from corn, sago, cassava to sweet potatoes. Fish features prominently in the diet as fresh, salted, dried, smoked or a paste. Spices and hot chili Peppers are the
essence of most cooking. The Javanese cuisine is probably more palatable to the general taste and consists of vegetables, soybeans, beef, chicken and other varieties. The Sumatrans generally eat more beef compared to the other regions. West Sumatra particularly is known for its Padang restaurants found nationwide. Beside the hot and spicy food, these restaurants are known for their unique style of service.

Further to the east, seafood features on the daily diet, either grilled or made into curries. In Bali, Papua and the highlands of North Sumatra and
North Sulawesi pork dishes are specialties. Pork is usually served in Chinese restaurants or non-moslem regions. There is a wide variety of tropical and sub-tropical fruits and vegetables all year round. Coffee and tea plantations are plentiful, growing on several islands, and served everywhere from fine restaurants to small village stalls.

There are several breweries which produce local beer. Bali produces “brem” which is a rice wine, whereas Toraja has its “tuak” which is also known in North Sumatra. Most common nationwide are “sate” (skewered grilled meat), “gado-gado” (vegetable salad with a peanut sauce), “nasi goreng” (fried rice served at anytime) and “bakmi goreng” (fried noodles).

Climate: Indonesia climate is distinctly tropical. There are only two seasons in Jakarta – dry season and rainy season. The east monsoon
from June to September brings dry weather while the west monsoon
from December to March is moisture-laden Indonesia In General
bringing rain. The transitional period between these two are
interposed by occasional rainshowers, but even in the midst of the
west monsoon season, temperatures range from 21 degrees C (70 F)
to 33 degrees C. (90 F) except at higher altitudes which are much
cooler. Heaviest rainfalls are recorded in December and January.
Humidity is between 60-100 %.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Fantasy Land: A recent addition to Jakarta's growing recreation facilities is the Fantasy Land, a 9.5 hectares (23.75 acres) entertainment park located inside the Ancol Dreamland. Planned to eventually become a part of a 200-hectares (500-acres) park designed to usher the visitors into the fascinating world of modern science and technology, the present facility takes them on an imaginative tour of Old Jakarta, Africa, America, Indonesia, Europe, Asia and the Palace of Dolls. Each of the areas is designed to give the visitor a feel of the region he is visiting through features and architecture of the area at a certain period of its history and by the use of animated puppets in the Palace of Dolls.The park also offers a number of restaurants and souvenir shops.

The National Monument:The National Monument, or "Monas" as it is popularly called. It stands for the people's determination to achieve freedom and the crowning of their efforts in the Proclamation of Independence in August 1945. The 137-meter tall marble obelisk is topped with a flame coated with 35 kg. of gold. The base houses a historical museum and a hall for meditations. The monument is open to the public and availability of the lift can carry visitors to the top which offers a bird's eye view on the city and the sea.

Central Museum: Established in 1778 by U.M.C. Rademacher under the auspices of the Batavia Association of Arts and Sciences. Visiting here is an wonderful experience, takes us to the greatness of Indonesian historical, prehistorical, archaeological and ethnographic aspects of Indonesia through its extensive collection of artifacts and relics which date as far back as to the Stone Age. It has one of the most complete collections of bronzes and ceramics dating back to the Han, Tang and Ming Dynasties. The Museum has one of the finest numismatic collections in the world, including cloth and money which was used on several islands until recently. The religious art section is filled with statuary and sculpture salvaged from sites of Hindu, Buddhist and Islamic edifices. This museum is popularly known as Gedung Gajah or "Elephant Building" because of the stone elephant offered by King Chulalongkorn of Thailand in 1871, placed on the front lawn of the building.

Indonesia in Miniature Park: An extensive park to get a glimpse of the diverseness of Indonesia's 27 provinces and their characteristics, reflected most strikingly in the exact regional architecture of the province. It has its own orchid garden in which hundreds of Indonesian orchid varieties are grown. There is also a bird park with a walk-in aviary, a fauna museum and recreational grounds with a swimming pool and restaurants. Of special interest here at Taman Mini is the Museum Indonesia. A richly decorated building in Balinese architecture, it houses contemporary arts, crafts and traditional costumes from the different regions of the country. Open from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. daily.

The Marina Jaya Ancol:This is a special port for yachts, motor and sail boats, the port of departure for Pulau Seribu and the scattered islands in the Bay of Jakarta. This is also the place for marine recreation and sports where each facility is available. And, water cycles, canoes, sail boats, fishing gear can get. Along the beach, there are many facilities for sunbath.

"Theater Imax Keong Emas" (Golden Snail Theater) : Located in the Taman Mini is the Imax theater which presents "Beautiful Indonesia" on a gigantic screen using the latest Imax system. Open from 11.00 am - 5.00 pm.

Jaya Ancol Dreamland: This is Jakarta's largest and most popular recreation park. It is built on reclaimed beach land at the Bay of Jakarta, having, sea and freshwater aquariums, swimming pools, an artificial lagoon for fishing, boating, bowling, an assortment of nightclubs, restaurants, a steam-bath and massage parlors. The Ancol complex includes a Marina, Dunia Fantasi (Fantasy Land), a golf course, hotels and a drive-in theater. The "Pasar Seni" or art market has a varied collection of Indonesian handicraft, paintings and souvenirs on sale.

Jalan Surabaya:This street is located in one of the city's better residential areas known for its flea market. Antiquities, including ornate lamps, porcelain, brass-ware, handicrafts products being sold.

Jakarta Museum:This building initially served as the Dutch East Indies Company's Town Hall. Additions and renovations including a stone gate, offices and renovations were added between 1705 and 1715. The known Indonesian hero, Diponegoro, was said to have been imprisoned in its dungeon before his exile to South Sulawesi.The building was used as military barracks and offices when the Jakarta City Administration decided in the early 1970s to make it the focus of a restoration plan of old Batavia. Now a museum, it provides the historical background of Jakarta through displays of old maps and antiquities including furniture and porcelain used by the Dutch rulers of Batavia, plus a 16th century Portuguese cannon which stand across the cobblestone square.

Sunda Kelapa: Sunda Kelapa, better known as Pasar Ikan (meaning fish market) is located at the mouth of the Ciliwung river. It was formerly the harbor town of Sunda Kelapa where the Portuguese traded with the Hindu Kingdom of Pajajaran in the early 16th century. The street leading to it was lined with shops selling all sorts of shells, dehydrated turtles, lobsters and mostly everything the seafarer might need. Dutch domination of Jakarta and the rest of Indonesia began from this area, whereas the remnants of Kasteel Batavia, an old fort and trading post of the Dutch East Indies Company can still be seen now.

Pulau Seribu: This group of islands in the Jakarta Bay, having golden beaches fringed with coconut palms. The surrounding waters are a paradise for skin divers. They are filled with a myriad of tropical fish which live among the multicolored corals. The islands can be reached from Tanjung Priok or Pasar Ikan (Sunda Kelapa) by ferry or by chartered boat. Some of the islands in this group developed for tourism are Pulau Bidadari, Pulau Ayer, Pulau Laki and Pulau Putri. Pulau Tanjung near Putri has an airstrip. There are cabins for hire, having fresh water on Pulau Air and Pulau Bidadari only. The Pulau Putri Paradise Co. has developed Pulau Putri, Pulau Melintang, Pulau Petondan and Pulau Papa Theo as a holiday resort with cottages, restaurants, diving and sailing facilities.

Taman Ria Remaja Senayan: Located at jalan Pintu VIII Senayan, this Park has a beautiful lake for boating, canoeing and boat cycling. Other facilities for children are among others mini cars, trains and a merry-go-round. Evening entertainment include live musical bands and popular local comedies.
Open daily from 4.00 pm - 10.00 pm, Saturday to midnight; Sundays and holidays from 08.00 am - 22.00 pm.

Bird Market (Pasar Burung): If you are interested to buy tropical birds there is the pasar burung (Bird Market) at jalan Pramuka with its colorful and rich varieties of attractive, lovable birds highlighted by the unique "perkutut" song bird, the pride of the Javanese people. Open daily from 9.00 am. It is advisable to go with an Indonesian speaking person for better communication.

T.I.M. Art Center: The main centre of cultural activities in Jakarta is the Jakarta Art Center, known as Taman Ismail Marzuki or TIM in short. It is one of the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia and consists of exhibition halls, theaters, an academy of arts, an archives building and a planetarium. A monthly programme of events, available at hotel counters, includes exhibitions, plays, musical and poetry recitals, dance performances, folk art and drama from the various regions of Indonesia.

Ragunan Zoo: Jakarta's zoo is situated in the suburb of Ragunan in the southern part of the city. Komodo lizard, tapir, anoa, Java tiger, banteng, wild ox and brightly colored birds are given ample room to be in this green foliage. Open dally from 8.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. The zoological garden is most crowded on Sunday and public holidays.

The Wayang Museum: This puppetry museum on the western side of Taman Fatahillah in "The Old Town" area has displays of wayang puppets from all parts of Indonesia and some from other parts of Southeast Asia. The wooden and leather puppets displayed here represent the finest craftsmanship in this particular form of traditional theater.

Satria Mandala Museum:This central museum of the Armed Forces displays exhibits on progress in the development of the Indonesian Armed Forces, its role in the struggle for the nation's independence, and other military relics. Open daily except Mondays.

Lubang Buaya Heroes Monument: Situated in the southeast of the city about 20 km from downtown, it is a memorial park dedicated to the six army generals and one army officer who were slain on October 1, 1965, in an abortive communist inspired coup d'etat. The centerpiece is the Pancasila Monument with statues of the seven heroes, standing near the old well in which their bodies were thrown after having been tortured and executed by communist militia squads.

Textile Museum: This museum displays various textiles from all over the country, and neibouring nations. Starts from hand-woven cotton, silk and batiks, as well as, of ancient or contemporary productions.

Maritime Museum: Two warehouses are the only ones left, which were of the first trading post and port of the Dutch East Indies Company in Java. They now house the Maritime Museum. Open from 8.00 a.m. till 2.00 p.m. on Tuesdays Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday. On Fridays closed at 11.00 a.m. and on Saturday at 1.00 p.m. It closes on Monday.

Portuguese Church: Situated in downtown Jakarta is the Portuguese Church, built between 1693 and 1696 for the Portuguese people of Batavia. Although rather plain from the outside, its interior is quite impressive with its baroque pulpit and organ.

Museum Komodo: Built in the form of the Varanus Komodiensis (the only prehistoric giant lizard found exclusively on Indonesia's Komodo Island), it exhibits dioramas depicting the fauna of insects and wild animals. Located at Taman Mini. Open daily from 8.00 - 15.00.

Parliament Building:The marvelous modern building on jalan Gatot Subroto is the parliament where at least once in every five years, the People's Consultative Assembly (the National Congress) holds its sessions. When not in session, visitors are allowed in but permission must be obtained in advance.

Perintis Kemerdekaan Building and the Soekarno - Hatta Monument: Located at jalan Proklamasi 56, adjacent to the former residence of the late President Soekarno where the nation's Independence was proclaimed. By the Perintis Kemerdekaan Building stands the Soekarno-Hatta Monument, in commemoration of the nation's first President and Vice President, who together proclaimed Independence on behalf of the Indonesian people.
Open daily from 8.00 a.m.

Museum Perangko: The Stamps Museum at Taman Mini has an attractive collection of stamps once issued in the country over the years. The museum is ideal for philatelists.
Open daily except Monday, from 08.00 - 15.00.

Indonesia Jaya Crocodile Park: Located in Pluit, North Jakarta about 700 crocodiles of all sizes and ages are roaming here. It offers regular shows, usually taking their themes from popular Indonesian folk tales.

Orchid Gardens: The beautiful orchids come from Indonesia. Here, several commercial orchid gardens are open to the public, the best known of them is located at Slipi and Taman Mini.

Condet: This village in southern Jakarta is a protected area where the old rural life style of Jakarta is preserved. Condet is also famed for its fruit orchards.

Travel Formalities: All travelers to Indonesia must be in possession of passport valid for at least six months from date of arrival and have proof (tickets) of onward or return passage.

Free Tourist Visa: Immigration authority will provide Free Tourist Visas for a period of 30 days to national s from 12 countries only on the basis of
reciprocity. The countries are Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei
Darussalam, the Philippines, Hong Kong SAR, Macao SAR, Chile,
Morocco, Peru, Vietnam and Equador.

Visa on Arrival (VOA): Visa on arrival is valid for 30 days and maybe extended under the permission of Indonesia is conditions as follows, the natural disaster happens in the place that is visiting by the tourist. And
if, the tourist is sick or got an accident during other visiting.

VOA Will be given to citizens of Australia, Argentina, Brazil,
Denmark, Canada, Finland, France, Germany,Great Britain, Hungary,
Italy, Japan, Norway, Poland, South Africa, South Korea,
Switzerland, New Zealand, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates, and the
United States of America, Austria, Belgium, India, Ireland, Kuwait,
Luxemburg, Maldives, Egypt, Oman, Portuguese, Qatar, The People of
Republic China, Russian, Saudi Arabian, Spain, Bahrain, Bulgaria,
Cambodia, Cyprus, Estonia, Greece , Iran, Iceland, Laos PDR,
Liechtenstein, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Nederland, Suriname, Sweden,
Aljazair, Czechoslovakia, Fiji, Latvia, Libya, Lithuania, Panama,
Slovakia, Slovenia, Rumania, Tunisia.

Entry ports where visa-on-arrival may be issued are the
Soekarno-Hatta airport in Jakarta, Ngurah Rai airport in Bali,
Sultan Syarif Hasim airport in Pekanbaru, Tabing airport in Padang,
Juanda airport of Surabaya and the Sam Ratulangi airport in Manado.
While authorized seaports are Batam, the Sekupang, Batuampar,
Nongsa, Marina, Teluk Senimba, Bandar Brintan, Talani Lagoi and
Bandar Sri Udana Labon in the Riau archipelago, Sri Bintan Pura in
Tanjung Pinang, Belawan port and Sibolga in North Sumatra, Yos
Sudarso Tanjung Perak in Surabaya, Teluk Bayur of Padang, Tanjung
Priok at Jakarta, Padang Bai and Benoa in Bali, the port of
Jayapura, Bitung, Tanjung Balai Karimun, Tanjung Mas in Central
Java, Tenua and Maumere in East Nusa Tenggara, Pare-Pare and
Soekarno Hatta port in South Sulawesi.

Other nationals must apply for visa at Indonesia Embassies or
Consulates in their home country. In addition, the visa cannot be
replaced with any other of immigration letters. The visa shall then
be administered by Visa Officer in the presence of the applicant
concerned.

General Visa Requirements: Visa applications should be submitted to the Visa Officer after filling out the required form. A visa application should be submitted along with the following : a valid passport; a round trip or through-ticket to country of destination; 2 (two) photographs, size 4 x 6 cm.
proof or written guarantee of possession of sufficient funds for living expenses during entire stay in Indonesia ;Payment of the visa fee.

Indonesia Representative Offices

GERMANY
c/o mk Advertising . Travel . Public Relations
Goethestrasse 66 80336 München Germany
Tel +49-89-590 439 06 Fax +49-89-516 568 94
email: indonesien@mkadvertising.de
Contact Person: Monika Blachian Managing Director
www.my-indonesia.info

AUSTRALIA

Level 5, 68 Alfred Street, Milsons Point NSW
2061, Australia PO BOX 365, MILSONS POINT
NSW 1565 Phone : 02 9959 4277, Fax : 02
9929 4543 E-mail : iedyer@itegra-tm.co.au
www.visit-indonesia.com.au
Contact Person : Ms. Leanne Dyer

JAPAN
(Office-1)
707 Win-Yotsuya, 2-18 Sumiyoshi-cho,
Shinjyuku-ku, Tokyo 162-0065, Japan
Phone : 03 5363 0137, Fax : 03 3353 8521
E-mail : narita@vmc.j-net
www.visitindonesia.jp
Contact Person : Mr. Tadahiko Narita

(Office 2)
New Tokyo Building 3-3-1, Marunouchi,
Choyida-ku, Tokyo 1000-005, Japan
Phone : 03 3240 6151, Fax : 03 3240 6150
E-mail : narita@vmc.j-net

HONG KONG S.A.R.
10/F, Tung Ming Building, 40 Des Voeux
Road Central, Hong Kong Phone : 852 2524
3233 Fax : 852 2845 9560
Email : bennyplc@netvigator.com,
benny@pacific-leisure.com.hk
www.visit-indonesia.cn
Contact Person : Mr. Benny wong

THE PEOPLE REPUBLIC OF CHINA
27/F, Song Dang Hotel 120 Liu Hua Road,
510016, Guangzhou, Guangdong, P.R. China
Phone : 8620-61130706 Fax : 8620-61130709
Email : bidadari_mia@hotmail.com
Contact Person : Ms. Mia Lioe

Public Holidays:
Jan 1 New Years Day
Jan 10 Islamic New Year*
Feb 7 Chineese New Year*
Mar 7 Nyepi (Hindu New Year)* (Bali)
Mar 20 Maulud Nabi (Birth of Prophet Muhammad)*
Mar 21 Good Friday
May 1 Ascencion/Easter
May 20 Waisak Feast*
Jul 30 Isra Miraj (Prophet Muhammad’s Ascencion)
Aug 17 Independence Day
Oct 1-2 Idul Fitri*
Dec 8 Idul Adha*
Dec 25 Christmas Day
Dec 29 Islamic New Year*.

* According to the lunar calendar.

Ivory Coast

2009-01-17T00:03:00.001-08:00

Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast, officially Republic of Côte d'Ivoire, lies in Western Africa, on the Gulf of Guinea of the Atlantic Ocean. It is bordered by Liberia and Guinea on the west, by Mali and Burkina Faso on the north, and by Ghana on the east. The official capital is Yamoussoukro. The former capital is Abidjan. Generally there is a sense prevails among international tourists is, Ivory Coast is no fit for all time tourism, because of its internal turmoil and gang wars. So, international tourists should have an alert and awareness in their travel.

Land and People: The country consists of a coastal lowland in the south, a densely forested plateau in the interior, and a region of upland savannas in the north. It is drained by four major rivers running roughly parallel from north to south, the Cavally, Sassandra, Bandama and Comoe. They are not of much value for transportation as they are sluggish in the dry season, broken by numerous falls and rapids and subject to torrential flooding in the rains. Rainfall is heavy, especially along the coast. There are over 60 ethnic groups in Côte d'Ivoire. The population is about 40% Muslim, with some 35% following traditional religious beliefs, and 25% Christian. The Muslims predominate in the north, while Christians are concentrated in the south. French is the official language.

Government: The Country is governed under the constitution of 2000. The president, who is the head of state, is popularly elected to a five-year term; there are no term limits. The prime minister, who is the head of government, is appointed by the president. The 225 members of the unicameral National Assembly are popularly elected to five-year terms. Administratively, the country is divided into 19 regions.

History: The Portuguese established trading settlements along the coast in the 16th century, and other Europeans later joined the burgeoning trade in slaves and ivory. In 1842 a French military mission imposed a protectorate over the coastal zone. After 1870, France undertook a systematic conquest; although a protectorate over the entire country was proclaimed in 1893. In 1960, Côte d'Ivoire withdrew from the French Community and declared itself independent. In 1980, high unemployment and a falling standard of living led to an attempted coup. Student and labor unrest continued throughout the 1980s as the government cut wages and increased the privatization of industry. The capital was officially transferred to Yamoussoukro in 1983.

Climate: The greatest annual rainfall, 198 cms (78 inches), is along the coast and in the southwest. The coastal region has a long dry season from December to mid-May, followed by heavy rains from mid-May to mid-July, a short dry season from mid-July to October, and lighter rains in October and November. Farther north, there is only one wet and one dry season, with rainfall heaviest in summer.

Airport: The Felix-Houphouet Boigny International Airport has daily scheduled flights to and from Paris. There are also regular flights to other West-African capitals. The airport is a modern facility and increased security has shaken its old reputation as a place for travellers to be ripped off. There is also many facilities to reach Ivory coast through train, boar and by car.

Cities: Abidjan - The administrative center and other countries maintain their embassies here. Korhogo - Rebel head quarters; otherwise idyllic, bursts with commerce during Feb - May because of flowing cotton and cashew trade. Aboisso – an important mile stone on the route connecting Abidjan and Ghana trade route, Bouaké - the second largest city Dabou . The second port city is San-Pedro. Yamoussoukro - Although it has been the official capital since 1983, it is not the administrative centre.
Grand-Bassam - A coastal town full of colonial charm, often a retreat for local Ivorians seeking to escape the city life of Abidjan on the weekends.

Food: Thousands of years prior to the arrival of the Europeans in the 1460s, independent tribes occupied present-day Côte d'Ivoire. They survived mostly on gathered seeds and fruits and hunted animals. Foods and eating habits were most likely influenced by outsiders who used the land as trade routes from as early as the 700s. In late 1400s, the Portuguese began to show a significant interest in Côte d'Ivoire. They brought European weapons and cassava, now a daily staple of the Ivoirians.

Despite varying diets and food customs, the people of Côte d'Ivoire generally rely on grains and tubers (root vegetables) to sustain their diet. Yams, plantains, rice, millet, corn, and peanuts are staple foods throughout the country. At least one of these is typically an ingredient in most dishes. The national dish is fufu (FOO-fue), plantains, cassava, or yams pounded into a sticky dough and served with a seasoned meat and vegetable sauce called kedjenou. As with most meals, it is typically eaten with the hands, rather than utensils. Kedjenou is most often prepared from peanuts, eggplant, okra, or tomatoes. Attiéké is a popular side dish. Similar to the tiny pasta grains of couscous, it is a porridge made from grated cassava.

For those who can afford meat, chicken and fish are favorites among Ivoirians. Most of the population, however, enjoys an abundance of vegetables and grains accompanied by various sauces. Several spicy dishes, particularly soups and stews, have hot peppers to enrich their flavors. Fresh fruits are the typical dessert, often accompanied by bangui (BAN-kee), a local white palm wine or ginger beer. Children are fond of soft drinks such as Youki Soda, a slightly sweeter version of tonic water. Celebrations

Probably the most anticipated time of the year for Muslims (believers of Islam) is Ramadan, a monthlong observance in which food and drink are not consumed between sunrise and sunset. Eid al-Fitr, the feast that ends this fasting month, lasts two to ten days. The feast may include a variety of seasoned meats with sauce, rice, yam or eggplant, salads, and soups or stews. Eid al-Adha (the feast of the sacrifice) starts on the tenth day of the last month of the Islamic calendar. After prayers, the head of each household typically sacrifices (kills) a sheep, camel, or an ox.

Christians, both Protestant and Roman Catholic, observe such holidays as Good Friday, Easter, and Christmas. Christians gather with family and friends on Christian holidays to enjoy a meal together. Cities are often decorated with bright lights and decorations. Réveillon, the Christmas Eve dinner served after midnight mass, is often considered the most important meal of the year. A Yule log is traditionally eaten as a special dessert.

Tourist Attractions: In Ivory Coast there are not many tourist attractions. There are only few are exists. They are:
Basilique de Notre Dame de la Paix: The religious, spiritual, architectural church is open on Mon-Sat 08:00 - 17:00 , Sun 11:30 - 17:00. Félix Houphouët-Boigny's vanity project symbolises the tragedy of Ivorian history. It was the world's largest Christian place of worship when it was built. It was modelled on Rome's St Peter's, although the dome is slightly shorter due to a papal intervention. And of course it cost a fortune
Grand-Bassam: Grand-Bassam is a city in Côte d'Ivoire, lying east of Abidjan. Once it was the French colonial capital city from 1893 until 1896, when the administration was transferred to Bingerville after the out break yellow fever. The city remained a key seaport until the growth of Abidjan from the 1930s. Grand-Bassam is the chief city of the department of the same name. In the Beginning of the 70s, the city began to revive as a tourist destination and a craft center. It now has a year-round population of approximately 5000.

The city is also home to a cathedral and the Côte d'Ivoire National Museum of Costume. Nouveau Bassam, linked to Ancient Bassam by a bridge, lies on the inland, northern side of the lagoon. It grew from the African servant's quarter and is now the main commercial centre of the town.

Visa & Immigration: Visas are required by all except for nationals from Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad Congo, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Togo, Tunisia, and USA.

Passports must be valid for at least least months after your proposed departure date.

Hotel:

Grand Hotels.
Abidjan.

Istanbul – The land of Olive and Tulips

2009-01-17T00:02:00.001-08:00

Istanbul – The land of Olive and Tulips

Istanbul is one of the most ancient and sought over tourist spot, bridging Asia and Eurpope. Believe it or not, this seaport city welcomes more than 10 million tourists every year. Situated on the peninsula at the entrance to the Black sea. Bosporus strait divides Istanbul in to two, the seats of two continents.

In 8th century BC. the Byzantian founded this as a Greek colony. Passing through to Persian Achaemenian dynasty in 5th BC. Under the rule of Alexander the great, the Romans, Emperor Constantine I, the city had a diverse culture and carriage. Prevoiusly it was named Constantinoble. Arabs, Bulgars and Russians also occupied Istanbul. After got Independence in 1923, the capital was moved to Ankara. And the name Constantinoble changed it to Istanbul, the meaing “downtown”.

The People: More than 10 million people live in Istanbul. Their ethnicity is, Turkish, Arabic, Greek, Circassian, Armenian, Yiddish, Kurdish. The languages widely spoken is Turkish (official), Arabic, Greek and others. Religion is, Muslim (98%), Christian, and Jewish (2%).
The Culture: The highlight of Istanbul's cultural life is the annual International Arts and Culture Festival, in June and July. World-class artists - musicians, dancers, and singers - perform in the city's various venues. The quality and wealth of the Festival is truly astonishing. And more opera, theatre, ballet, films, exhibition and so on are available. In the night club with Turkish songs an belly dance is familiar.
Food and Cuisine: Turkish food is considered some of the most delicious food in the world. It is the blend of different ingredients and flavors. The people of Turkey eat a lot of lamb and rice and also takes a lot of yogurt and vegetables such as tomato and eggplant. Many of their dishes are cooked in olive oil because olives grow very well in Turkey. Here, families make their own olive oil by using an home made olive techniques. The famous Turkish dish is shish kebob. These are pieces of meat and vegetables that are put on a stick then grilled.
Turks usually eat three meals a day. Breakfast often consists of bread and honey, cheese, tomatoes, eggs, olives, and coffee or tea. Lunch used to be the main meal of the day, but since most Turkish adults work outside of the home now, dinner has become the main meal. Sometimes a dinner will start with meze, which is like an appetizer sampler plate. Then, there is usually a plate with meat, rice and vegetables. Dessert is usually fresh fruit such as cherries, strawberries or melons.
The specialities: Turke Grapes and cherries were first grown in Turkey. Hundreds of years ago, traders brought them to other countries and now they grow in many places around the world.

Carpets: Turkey is known throughout the world for making beautiful carpets. The carpets have always been important to the people of Turkey for many reasons. One main reason is that most Turks take their shoes off when they enter a house, and the carpets keep their feet warm on the cold floors. Many of these carpets were so valuable that the owners hung them on walls like paintings because they were too beautiful to walk on. A carpet that is 9 feet by 12 feet usually weighs about 100 pounds and takes five months to make. Some of the most expensive and elegant carpets can take up to five years to make. Today, some carpets can be made by machines, which takes much less time. The hand-made carpets are considered much more valuable.

Mosaic: Mosaic is one of the oldest art forms in the world. There are many mosaics in Istanbul and other cities in Turkey that were made thousands of years ago, and many of these ancient mosaics survive to this day also.

Tulips: Tulips originally came from Turkey. Before they were known to the world, Dutch explorers visited Turkey and brought tulip seeds back to their country.

Coffee: Coffee is a very important part of Turkish culture. Turks enjoy having a cup of coffee with friends in the many coffee houses around town. One tradition in Turkey is to tell someone’s fortune by reading the coffee grounds at the bottom of their cup after they have drunk their coffee.

Sight Seeing: Praising the ancientness of Istanbul and its marvelous beauty cannot be described in the words. Seeing is the real enjoyment. To the feast of our eyes there are many more sight seeing spots in Istanbul. The breath taking beauty of Istanbul lies mainly on its gigantic mosques and its minarets. It tells us the stories of Ottoman, Greek, Albanian and so on. We can now analyse some of this.

The Blue Moque: Sultan Ahmet Camii is called the Blue Mosque. Because of its interior tiles, mostly on the upper level and difficult to see unless you're right up there with them.
Dolmabahce Mosque: Is located in the south of Dolmabahce Palace, on the coast and it's is one of the ornamented mosques constructed in Baroque style.
The Mosque and Mausoleum of Eyup Sultan: Located outside the corner where the land walls meet the walls along the Golden Horn, is considered a sacred site for Moslems.
Fatih Mosque: The Fatih Mosque constructed at the Conqueror's orders was designed by a great architect named Sinan the Elder.
The Suleymaniye Mosque: It is located in the historic quarter of Istanbul. Suleymaniye Mosque built in the 16th century and is considered to be the most beautiful of the imperial mosques in Istanbul.

Topkapi Palace: At the confluence of the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn and the Sea of Marmara stands, the Topkapi Palace, the maze of buildings that was the focal point of the Ottoman Empire between the 15th and 19th centuries.
Dolmabahçe Palace: whose construction began in 1846 in the province of Besiktas was completed in 1856. The palace which was commissioned by Sultan Abdulmecid was built on an area of 250.000 m².
Yildiz Palace: is located inside a 500.000 square-meter woods between Besiktas and Ortakoy provinces and is comprised of a mansion, summer palace, administrative and service buildings.
The Istanbul Florya Ataturk Sea Pavilion: Served as a summer residence for Turkish presidents, beginning with Ataturk Built in 1935 in a T-shaped design on land jutting out over the Sea of Marmara. The 19th-century lhlamur Pavilion is named for the linden trees that grow in its gardens.
The Goksu Palace: also known as Kucuksu, takes its name from the streams which empty into the Bosphorus near the tiny palace. Built by Abdulmecit I in the middle of the 19th century, it was used as a summer residence.
Grand Bazaar – Kapalicarsi: is a great bazaar in Nuri Osmaniye and Beyazid Mosques and Mahmutpaþa Bazaar, made up of streets of various shops sheltered by roofs and domes. Though not very regularly shaped, it holds and area of about 31 thousand square meters. The nucleus of Kapalýçarþý is a Byzantine building which is today called Old Bedesten. The section of the bazaar where valuables and jewellery are bought and sold was commissioned by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror and the main great bazaar itself was commissioned during Kanuni Sultan Suleyman, on a wooden basis. Kapalýçarþý.
The Egyptian Market - Misir Carsisi - Spice Bazaar is in Istanbul, Eminönü. It was commissioned by Mehmet the Fourth’s mother, Hatica Turhan Sultan as a donation for Yeni Mosque. The construction was initiated with Architect Kasým Aga and was completed in 1660 by Architect Mustafa Aga. It has six gates and 86 shops. It has gained its recent look after 1943 restoration.
To Reach Istanbul: From Istanbul International Airport, there are many more conveyance systems available to reach the city. Metro rail, Tram, buses available. All international and domestic flights arrive at Istanbul's Atatürk Airport. Shuttle buses run every 30 minutes from the airport's international and domestic terminals to the Turkish Airlines (THY) terminal in downtown Istanbul.
To Get Around: Car ferry and cruise service is operated out of Istanbul by Turkish Maritime Lines. Cruises are in great demand. The Black Sea Ferry sails from May through September from Istanbul to Samsun and Trabzon and back, from Karaköy Dock in Istanbul. The Istanbul-to-Izmir car ferry departs once a week.
Trains labeled express, have several long-distance routes, but they tend to be slow. The best daily trains between Istanbul and Ankara are the Baskent Express and the Fatih Express. The overnight Yatakli Ankara Express has luxurious sleeper cars; the Anadolu Express has cheaper, less comfortable berths. There are overnight trains to Pamukkale as well as daily trains to Edirne from Sirkeci station in Istanbul. Dining cars on some trains have waiter service and serve surprisingly good and inexpensive food.
Train fares tend to be lower than bus fares. Seats on the best trains, as well as those with sleeping berths, should be reserved in advance. In railroad stations, buy tickets at windows marked anahat giseleri. Travel agencies carrying the tcdd (State Railways) sign and some post offices sell train tickets, too.
The trip to Istanbul made easy nowadays by the efficient attempts of the government. Athtough, before entering Istanbul we have to come closer to some words of Turkish, for easy going and enjoying the Hamam and all other things enjoyable to you.

Helsinki

2009-01-17T00:01:00.001-08:00

Helsinki

Helsinki, the small and intimate city of Finland, is altogether a beggar – free city, as beggars are never seen here. The clean, beautiful, young city of Finland has in itself many unexplored beauties on its seashores and water bodies.

The vast and vivacious beaches and their entertainments are world famous for the full utilization of its resources by the appetite tourists of the world. To know the city life and city's splendor, quite a walk is enough. The cafes, markets and the nearby islands are the delights of Helsinki in summer and of course, all climates. Being located on the Baltic Sea, this Capital city is called "Daughter of the Baltic".

Helsinki's symbol, the Lutheran Cathedral, Suomenlinna fortress the ferries on sail touching the fortress and so on are really the wonderful items that make the sightseeing worth doing!

This city is often called "The white city of the north", because of its buildings made of local light-colored granite. The neatly arranged streets and lawns are the added advantages of Helsinki. The theatres, an opera and ballet company, and several symphony orchestras are spreading the fame of this tranquil city to the world over.

Helsinki is Finland's administrative center and the center of Finnish cultural life and business activity. There is a large and varied collection of museums, galleries, and performance spaces in the city.

Location: Being the capital as well as the largest city of Finland, Helsinki is in the southern part of Finland, on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, on the Baltic Sea. There are many natural ports and harbors all along the shores of Helsinki making this city prosper more and more.

History: This beautiful city was founded by Sweden in 1550 and moved to its present site in 1640. Conquered by the Russian king Tsar Alexander I in 1808, became the capital of the grand duchy of Finland in 1812. In 1917 Finland declared independence from Russia, and a brief but bloody civil war ensued in the capital. It was damaged by Russian bombing during the World War II and it was the site for the 1975 international diplomatic conference. The city population is 565,186 (According to the census taken on 30 April 2007).

Climate: The Climate in Helsinki is generally humid continental. Summers are usually pleasantly warm and daily maximum temperatures during the summer months are usually around 18-26 °C (64-70°F). Winter has very short days.

To get in: Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is the prime airport handling major airways flights, situated north of Helsinki's downtown area, in the neighboring city of Vantaa. From here, all major European, Asian and North American cities are connected with flights. Ferry service is available to reach Stockholm. Finnlines passenger-freight
Ferries to Travemünde, Germany are also available.

Some companies also provide helicopter service. The inland conveyance is mainly on private car and subway trains. While the other cities of Finland have abandoned the use of Tramcars, Helsinki still uses this mode of transport. Traveling by Tramcars to get the glimpse of Helsinki is a unique way.

Activities: Activities of tourists are abundant here. All the bee-lines for beaches are with full of water sports such as Saunas, swimming, sunbathing, deep sea sailing and so on. Helsinki's main attractions are all related to the sea and its water. The Suomenlinna naval fortress (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and the Seurasaari Island with its parks and open-air museum do attract not only the tourists but also the locals. Resting along the Hietaniemi beach is really a wonderful experience.

Helsinki is home for the Linnanmäki amusement park, which features five roller coasters and many other rides, including the world's first Intamin ZacSpin rollercoaster. This is the place sure of entertainments and enjoyment for both young and old generations despite the generation gap.

Amazing Buildings: Helsinki's older part consists of the state council building, the president's residence, the University of Helsinki, the Church of St. Nicholas, the national art gallery, and the impressive railway station.

Finlandia Hall and the Finnish National Opera House (1993); the House of Representatives building; the technical university (1879); the sports stadium; Kiasma, a contemporary art museum ; Seurasaari, a folk life museum housed in pre-20th-century wooden buildings; and Temppeliaukio Church, excavated out of solid rock. The biggest historical museum in Helsinki is the National Museum of inland, which displays collection from prehistoric times to the 21st century. The very building of the museum itself, a national romantic style neo-medieval castle, is a tourist attraction.

The Finnish National Gallery consists on three museums: Ateneum Art Museum for classical Finnish art, Sinebrychoff Art Museum for classical European art, and Kiasma Art Museum for modern art. The old Ateneum, a neo-renaissance palace from 19th century, is one of the city's major historical buildings, whereas the highly modern Kiasma is probably the most debated building in Helsinki.

Entertainment: Helsinki has three major theatres: The Finnish National Theatre, the Helsinki City Theatre, and the Finland Swedish Svenska Theatre are the centers of Art and culture. The city's main musical venues are the Finnish National Opera and the Finlandia concert-hall. Bigger concerts and events are usually held at one of the city's two big ice hockey arenas: the Hartwall Areena or the Helsingin Jäähalli.

Hawaii Islands

2009-01-17T00:00:00.001-08:00

Hawaii Islands

The Hawaiian Islands, once known as the Sandwich Islands, form an archipelago of
nineteen islands and atolls, numerous smaller islets and undersea seamounts in the North Pacific Ocean. The archipelago takes its name from the largest island in the group and extends some 2400 kms from the Island of Hawaii in the south to northernmost Kure Atoll.

Formerly this islands called as “Sandwich Islands”. There are eight major
islands and more than a hundred minor ones are combined in Hawaii. Polynesian tribes settled here in the sixth century A.D. British Capt. James Cook visited this islands in 1778. They were ruled by native Hawaiian monarchs from 1795 until 1893.Republic was proclaimed in 1894. Annexation by the United States were approved in 1898.
Excluding Midway, which is an unincorporated territory of the united States, the Hawaiian Islands form the U.S. State of Hawaii. It is the 50th state of the United States of America.

When comparing to other tourist spots, Hawaiian islands has a peculiar specialties.

Volcanoes: Hawaiian is naturally constructed by the igneous rock and its coarse-grained equivalents, gabbro and diabase. The Hawaiian Islands are the site of many earthquakes. Generally, they are caused by the islands' volcanic foundations. The only active volcanism in the last 200 years is on the southeastern island, Hawaii, and on the submerged but growing volcano at the extreme southeast, Loihi.

Earthquakes: The state of Hawaii accounted for 7.3% of the United States' reported earthquakes. Hawaii ranked as the state with the third most earthquakes over this time period On Sunday, October 15, 2006, there was an earthquake with a magnitude of 6.7, off the northwest coast of the island of Hawaii, near the Kona area of the big island. The
initial earthquake was followed approximately five minutes later by a magnitude 5.7
aftershock. A tsunami alert was issued, but quickly canceled after sensor buoys failed to detect sinificant wave activity. No deaths or life-threatening injuries were reported.

Hurricane: From June to November, here the hurricane season prevails. The wild storms tend to originate off the coast of Mexico (particularly the Baja
California peninsula) and track west or northwest towards the islands.
Hawai‘i is protected by the vastness of the Pacific;as storms cross the Pacific they tend to lose strength if they bear northward and encounter cooler water

Tsunamis: Aftermath of the 1960 Chilean tsunami in Hilo, Hawaii, where the tsunami left 61 people dead and 282 seriously injured.The Hawaiian Islands can be affected by tsunamis, great waves that strike the shore typically but not exclusively from the north.
The city of Hilo on the Big Island has historically been most affected by tsunamis, where the inrushing water isaccentuated by the shape of the bay on which the town is situated.

Getting to Hawaii
Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oahu is Hawaii's major airport, serving as the entry point for most of Hawaii's visitors. All 23 major domestic carriers and 16 international carriers destines Oahu. There are also direct flights from the mainland to Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii's Big Island.

Staying in Hawaii
Accommodations is easy in Hawaii. You can find everything here from historic hotels and boutiques, to bed and breakfasts, rental condos, and luxury resorts. You'll find more than 30,000 hotel rooms on Oahu alone.

The apt time
Anytime of year is a good time to visit Hawaii. Summer, between April and November, is warmer and drier (average temperature is 75°-88° F).Winter is between December and March, some a bit cooler (68°-80° F). Trade winds keep things comfortable year-round.

What is the time difference from the mainland?
Hawaii follows Hawaii Standard Time (GMT-10 hours), which is 5 hours behind Eastern Standard Time and 2 hours behind Pacific Standard Time. Hawaii does not observe Daylight Savings Time so add one extra hour to the time difference during this period (March through November).

Hawaii's currency is the US dollar. Traveler's checks aren't necessary since credit cards are widely accepted and ATM machines are plentiful.

What is the language spoken in Hawaii?
English is spoken throughout the islands, but Hawaiian is also an official language of the state of Hawaii.

In whole we call Hawaii consists, eight main Islands. They are:

1. Hawaii (island): The biggest island of Hawaii. The name Hawaii is named after Hawaiiloa, the legendary Polynesian navigator who first discovered this beautiful island. And more many reasons for this name is exist. The Big Island is home to one of the largest cattle ranches in the United States, Parker Ranch, which is situated on Kamuela. The Big Island is famous for its volcanoes. Kīlauea, the most active, has been erupting almost continuously for more than two decades.

And, the following are the places and must see places of interest. Akaka Falls; tallest waterfall on the island, Amy B. H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden in East Hawaii, Cultural Center Hawaii, Tropical Botanical Garden Hawaii, Volcanoes National Park; comprising the active volcanoes Kīlauea and Mauna.
2. Loa: Hulihee Palace; a royal palace in Kailua-Kona, Ka Lae, the southernmost point in the United States. Manuka State Wayside Park, Mauna Kea Observatory, Nani Mau Gardens, Onizuka Space Center; museum dedicated to the memory of Challenger astronaut. Ellison Onizuka, Pacific Tsunami Museum, Pua Mau Place Arboretum and Botanical Garden are the important places. And more, Hōnaunau National Historical Park, Sadie Seymour Botanical Gardens, University of Hawaii at Hilo Botanical Gardens World Botanical Gardens, Waipi'o Valley, Rainbow Falls State Park are also tourist worthy.

2. Mau·i :
An island of Hawaii northwest of Hawaii Island. It is the second-largest island in the
state, with an economy based chiefly on sugar cane, pineapples, and tourism, separated from the island of Hawaii by the Alenuihaha Channel and from Molokai by the Pailolo Channel. Maui is made up of two mountain masses, which constitute the east and west peninsulas, connected by an isthmus.

Maui County welcomed 2,263,676 tourists. The Island of Oahu is most popular with Japanese tourists.The Island of Maui tends to appeal to visitors mostly from the U.S. mainland and Canada. While the west is the main tourist attraction, in the east also, there is Paia. Its beaches are world renowned for both windsurfing and surfing.

West Maui is the main tourist center of the island and includes the old whaling port of Lahaina with many gift shops and restaurants, Kaanapali beach which plays host to the majority of luxury resorts on the west side, Honokowai, Kahana and Napili which are a mix of vacation condos, vacation homes, residential and resorts. Kapalua with its world renowned golf courses. Isolated Hana is located on Maui's eastern tip surrounded by dense rainforests. The Highway to Hana is a tourist attraction in its own right, as it winds for hours through green valleys, past waterfalls, and over one-lane bridges.

There are also plenty of beaches, especially in the west and northwest, where you can simply wade in and get to excellent snorkeling spots just offshore. Black Rock (at the north end of Kaanapali Beach) is one such place. There are several local shops where you can rent snorkel gear by the day or week. It is illegal to harass turtles and turtle nests. Many different companies lead mountain bike trips down Mt. Haleakala.

Hikers are drawn to Haleakala National Park. Other notable hiking considerations should include:Makawao Forest Preserve, Honolua Ridge Arboretum, Swinging Bridges (Waihee
Valley), Waihee Ridge trail, Waianapanapa to Hana, Oheo Gulch to Waimoku Falls,
Pali Lahaina trail etc.

3. Kahoolawe
An island of south-central Hawaii southwest of Maui. The low and unfertile island has
been used as a prison and a military target range. Uninhabited island, 45 sq mi (117
sq km), central Hawaii; separated from Maui island to the NE by Alalakeiki Channel. There are no permanent residents living on the island.

4. Lanai
Island, 141 sq mi, central Hawaii, West of Maui island across the Auau Channel; Mt. Lanaihale is the island's highest point. For many years the island was used for sugarcane raising and cattle grazing. In 1922 it was purchased by a pineapple company and developed as a pineapple-growing center. Lanai City (1990 pop. 2,400) and Kaumalapau port are on the island. In 1961, 98% of the island became the property of the Castle and Cooke Co., with plans to designate a large majority of Lanai for the development of forests, meadows, and some agriculture.

Due to the non existence of pineapple industry, tourism on Lanai developed very rapidly. There are two resort hotels on Lanai, both managed by Four Seasons Hotels: Manele Bay and the Lodge at Koele. The latter is unusual for a resort in Hawaii in that it is located inland rather than near the beach. There is also a small hotel in Lanai City
used primarily for people visiting Lanai residents. Both resorts have golf courses,
and are managed by Four Seasons.

The largest private residence on the island is a mansion owned by billionaire David H.
Murdock. It is located next to Manele Bay, on the south east side of the island.
Lanai was the site of a kayaking challenge in the finale of The Amazing Race All Stars

5. Molokai
An island of central Hawaii between Oahu and Maui. The Belgian missionary Father
Damien established a leper colony on the northern coast in 1860.
Molokai (also Molokai) is the fifth largest island of the Hawaiian archipelago. The lights of Honolulu are visible at night from the west end of Molokai, while nearby Lanai and Maui are clearly visible from anywhere along the south shore of the Island.
Unforgettable. Kaunakakai Moloka'i's town center is a laid-back gem, a real Hawai'i original. Ala Malama street is just a block long, with a potpourri of eateries and shops.

Papohaku Beach, A contender for the finest beach in all Hawai'i, at three miles in length and 100 yards wide it is the second largest in the state, and definitely the best on Moloka'i. Maunaloa is now offers the island's only movie theatre and fast-food spot. Moloka'i Lodge & Beach Village is a legendary "bonanza" of a ranch. Still a working cattle spread, Moloka'i Ranch today has dedicated itself to providing every sort of thrill-seeking
excitement. Kalaupapa Take the mule ride, hike or fly down to this picturesque, isolated peninsula, a National Historic Park.

Pala'au State Park Overlooking Kalaupapa, this 34-acre recreation area and a magnificent area. Kamakou and Mo'omomi, the Nature Conservancy manages Kamakou Preserve. An island of central Hawaii between Molokai and Kauai. It is the chief island of the state, with major tourist areas, including Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head and a U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor.
Filled with over 250 indigenous plants and native birds on the slopes of the isle's
highest mountain. Also under the care of The Nature Conservancy, the Mo'omomi
Dunes. Important to archaeologists, botanists, and marine biologists, the Smithsonian
discovered bones of prehistoric birds here that existed nowhere else on earth.

Ili'ili'opae Heiau, One of the largest platform heiau in all Hawai'i. This Hawaiian temple is believed to have been three times its current size of over 3,000 s.f. and up to 22 ft. high. The vibrations of a powerful past, it is a peaceful place to learn about Hawaiian traditions. Kaloko'eli Fish pond Ancient Hawaiians practiced a very sophisticated form of aquaculture, and this is one of the finest examples of Moloka'i's fish ponds. Most were built 700-800 years ago,and at one time more than sixty were operating on the island's southern shore

6. Oahu
An island of central Hawaii between Molokai and Kauai. It is the chief island of the
state, with major tourist areas, including Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, and a U.S.
naval base at Pearl Harbor. Is the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands and most populous of the islands in the State of Hawaii, including small close-in offshore islands such as Ford Island and the islands in Kaneohe Bay and off the eastern coast, it has a total land area of 1,545.3 km². The island is the result of two separate shield volcanoes: Waianae and Koolau, with a broad "valley" or saddle between them. The highest point is Mt.

The famous tourist attractions of Oahu are, Hanauma Bay, Valley of the Temples near the island's eastern shore.Ala Moana, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, Honolulu
Honolulu Academy of Arts, North Shore, Pearl Harbour, Polynesian Cultural Center
USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missouri, Waikīkī and Valley of the temples.

7.Kauai

An island of Hawaii northwest of Oahu. It was an independent royal domain when
visited by Capt. James Cook in 1778 and became part of the kingdom of Hawaii in
1810.Kauai is the oldest and fourth largest of the main Hawaiian Islands. One of the wettest spots on Earth, with an annual average rainfall of 460 inches, is located on the east side of Mount Waialeale. The high annual rainfall has eroded deep valleys in the central mountains, carving out canyons with many scenic waterfalls. Located on the southern coast of Kaua'iAlakai Wilderness Area. Allerton Garden, Fern Grotto, Hanalei Bay, Iraivan temple, Kee Beach, Kokee State Park, Limahuli Garden and Preserve, McBryde Garden, Moir Gardens, Na 'Aina Kai Botanical Gardens, Na Pali Coast State Park, Spouting Horn, Wailua River, Waimea Canyon are the telling the stories of the vivid beauty of Hawaii.

8. Niihau
An island of northwest Hawaii west of Kauai Island. It is used mainly for cattle grazing
nē'hou) , island 70 sq mi, in Kauai co., Hawaii, W of Kauai island. It is mostly arid lowland, rising to 1,281 ft (390 m) at Paniau Mt. The island is suitable for cattle grazing. Niihau, privately owned since 1864 when it was purchased from the Hawaiian kingdom by an American family, is operated as a ranch.
Niihau is the smallest of the inhabited Hawaiian Islands in the U.S. State of Hawaii,
having an area of 179.9 km² .Known as the "Forbidden Isle". Since 1864, the island has been privately owned by the Robinson family.

The secluded beaches, sunbath along with the monk seals, beach-comb these white sand beaches for hells and glass balls, and swim with the beautiful tropical reef fish in the pristine warm ocean waters.

SMALLER ISLANDS:

Smaller islands, atolls, and reefs (beyond Niʻihau and all uninhabited); called the
Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, or Hawaiian Leeward Islands:
Nihoa (Mokumana)
Necker (Mokumanamana)
French Frigate Shoals (Mokupāpapa)
Gardner Pinnacles (Pūhāhonu)
Maro Reef (Nalukākala)
Laysan (Kauo)
Lisianski Island (Papaapoho)
Pearl and Hermes Atoll (Holoikauaua)
Midway Atoll (Pihemanu) (temporary residential facilities)
Kure Atoll (Kānemilohai)

1. Nihoa:
Nihoa (also known as Bird Island or Moku Manu) is a small island in the Northwestern
Hawaiian Islands located 120 miles northwest of the island of Niihau and 280 miles
northwest of capital Honolulu. Nihoa is the tallest of the
Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, with two peaks, 895 ft Miller's Peak in the
west, and 852 ft Tanager Peak in the east.

Nihoa is a sanctuary for endemic species. Covered mostly by coastal scrub
vegetation, the endemic Nihoa fan palm, Pritchardia remota, is the only species of
tree on the island. There are also two endemic birds: the Nihoa Millerbird and Nihoa
Finch. An endemic species of carnation, the Nihoa Carnation is also found in small
numbers. Nihoa is also a genus of brushed trapdoor spiders (Barychelidae) with 23
species, with one species the Nihoa trapdoor spider (N. mahina) endemic to Nihoa
. And another (N. hawaiiensis) endemic to Necker Island. An endangered species
of Amaranth, Amaranthus brownii, is found only on Nihoa, and steps are in place to
prevent its extinction.

2. Necker Island
Necker Island (Hawaiian: Mokumanamana) is a small island in the Pacific Ocean, 13
km. It is part of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, located 249 km (155 miles) northwest of Nihoazand 690 km northwest of Honolulu, and is part of the Hawaiian Islands. National Wildlife Refuge within the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands National Monument. Because of the island's usage by Native Hawaiians as a ceremonial and religious site in Ancient Hawaii, the island was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.

3. The French Frigate Shoals
he French Frigate Shoals (Hawaiian: Mokupāpapa) is the largest atoll in the
Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Its name commemorates French explorer Jean-
François de La Pérouse, who nearly lost two frigates when attempting to navigate the
shoals. It consists of a 20-mile long crescent-shaped reef, twelve sandbars, and the
120 ft. More than 600 species of marine invertebrates, many of which are endemic, are found here as well.
The islands are also an important seabird colony. 18 species of seabird, the Black-
footed Albatross, Laysan Albatross, Bonin Petrel, Bulwer's Petrel, Wedge-tailed
Shearwater, Christmas Shearwater, Tristram's Storm-petrel, Red-tailed Tropicbird,
Masked Booby, Red-footed Booby, Brown Booby, Great Frigatebird, Gray-backed
Tern, Sooty Tern, Blue-gray Noddy, Brown Noddy, Black Noddy and White Tern nest
on the islands, most of them of them on Tern Island. Two species, the Blue-gray
Noddy and the Brown Booby, nest only on La Perouse Pinnacle. The island also is
the wintering ground for several species of shorebird.
Whale-Skate Island is a submerged island in the French Frigate Shoals. These
islands suffered considerably from erosion starting in the 1960s, and by the late
1990s, Whale-Skate Island was completely washed over.

4. Gardner Pinnacles
The guano-coated Gardner PinnaclesThe Gardner Pinnacles (Hawaiian: Pūhāhonu)
are two barren rock outcrops surrounded by a reef and located 946 km (588 miles)
northwest of Honolulu in the Hawaiian Islands. Its highest peak has a commanding height of 170 feet. Gardner Pinnacles was first discovered on June 2, 1820 by the American whaler Maro commanded by Captain Joseph Allen.
The Gardner Pinnacles are home to some species of fish not found anywhere else in
the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, and have more species of coral than two rocky
neighbors to the south, Necker Island and Nihoa. Numerous insects live on the island,
and recently a researcher claims that, he had found two new species of spiders here.

5. Maro Reef
Maro Reef is a largely submerged coral atoll located in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. It was discovered in 1820 by Captain Joseph Allen of the ship Maro, after whose ship the reef was named. With a total area of 1 934 km².It is the largest coral reef in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. It contains 37 species of stony coral.
Not like usual atolls, the coral extends out from the center like spokes on a wheel.
6. Laysan
Laysan is in the middle of the leeward island chain.
Monk seal on the beach at Laysan Island. Located 930 miles northwest of Honolulu. It is an atoll of sorts, although the land completely surrounds a shallow central lake some eight feet above sea level that has a salinity approximately three times greater than the ocean. Lake Laysan is one of only five natural lakes in Hawaii. Laysan's Hawaiian name of Kauō means egg, referring to its shape and how much life springs from the island.

7. . Lisianski Island
Lisianski Island is one of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Honolulu is 905 nautical miles away, to the southeast. The Island is named after Yuri Feodorovich Lisyansky, an officer in the Imperial Russian Navy. Lisianski reported the Island to be of little interest, except insofar as its surrounding reefs and shoals posed a threat to passing vessels.

8. The Pearl and Hermes Atoll
The Pearl and Hermes Atoll, is part of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Discovered in 1857, a few, small, sandy islands exist, contained within a lagoon and surrounded by a coral reef. These islands are devoid of vegetation, except for several species of grasses. The atoll had its greatest importance within the pearl trade. In 1927, Captain William Greig Anderson was fishing for tuna and in the process, discovered pearl beds within the lagoon. The Hawaiian government elected to suspend all commercial activity and render the area as a bird sanctuary. The endangered Laysan Finch was introduced to the island to provide a back up population of the birds, should a hurricane, disease, rat introduction, or other disaster wipe out the population on the island of Laysan.

9. Midway Islands
Two small islands and a surrounding coral atoll in the central Pacific Ocean northwest
of Honolulu. Discovered in 1859, they were annexed by the United States in 1867 and
remain a U.S. territory with an important naval base. A decisive World War II Allied
victory in the Battle of Midway (June 3–6, 1942) was a major turning point in the war in
the Pacific. It consists of a ring-shaped barrier reef and several sand
islets. The two significant pieces of land, Sand Island and Eastern Island, provide
habitat for hundreds of thousands of seabirds.

10. Kure Atoll or Ocean Island
Situated some 55 miles beyond Midway Atoll in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. The International Date Line lies approximately 100 miles to the west. Kure is the northern -most coral atoll in the world. It consists of a 6-mile wide nearly circular barrier reef surrounding a shallow lagoon and several sand islets. The only land of significant size is called Green Island and is habitat for hundreds of thousands of seabirds. There are some islets and small offshore islands also redeing a great service to the tourists.

Ford Island, Lehua, Kaula, Kaohikaipu, Manana, Mokolea Rock, Na Mokulua, Molokini
Mokolii, Moku Manu and so on.

The above mentioned islands and islets are giving feast to eyes of Tourists from all countries of the world. For their aid, here are some titbits about Hawaii.

Many plants and animals from elsewhere in the world can be harmful to Hawaii’s unique environment, agriculture, and communities. Aboard your flight to Hawaii, you will be required by state law to fill out an agriculture declaration form.

Passengers arriving with fresh fruits & vegetables; cut flowers & foliage; rooted plants & plant cuttings, or algae; raw or propagative seeds or bulbs; soil, growing media, sand; live seafood (lobsters, clams, oysters); cultures of bacteria, fungi, viruses or protozoa; or insects, live fish, amphibians, etc., must declare them and submit them for inspection to a Hawaii Plant Quarantine Inspector in the baggage claim area.

If you are traveling with live animals, you must declare them and notify a cabin attendant on your flight prior you deplaning you.

The Dress:

Start with clothes that are light, loose, and comfortable.

Daytime
- Shorts, sandals or some good walking shoes
- Short sleeve shirts or tops
- Hat and sunglasses
- Swim trunks or swimsuit for the beach

Evenings
- Casual pants and shirts for both men and women
- Dress or skirt and top for women
- Sport coat
- Light jacket or sweater

Shopping Tips
In Hawaii, you’ll discover a world of shopping opportunities. World-class malls. Luxury brand stores. Factory outlet stores. Specialty stores and boutiques, and stores selling products made only in Hawaii. Many of the major shopping areas also offer free shuttle service between their location and major hotels.