All The World Travelling

10 Deepest Caves of the World

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 04:03:00 -0800

Our ancestors were using caves as shelter from wild animals and the forces of nature. Perhaps, this base necessity however, has always been eclipsed by man’s curiosity and desire to explore the mystical and enigmatic air inside the abyss.
Here I have compiled 10 deepest caves of the world. I hope you will like it.

Krubera-Voronja Cave

Cave of Kruber, Voronja is the deepest cave in the world with recent measurements extending to a total depth of 7188 feet. It was the first cave to be explored to a depth of more than 2 km down.

Illuzia-Snezhnaja-Mezhonnogo

It is two times larger than the world’s deepest cave and is the second deepest in the world. Located in Georgia, the cave is renowned for being dangerous and very difficult to work in.

Gouffre Mirolda

The cave measures 5685 feet. It was the first cave to be explored below 1 km. The record however, was beaten within a matter of years.

Vogelshacht and Lamprechtsofen

The cave system has so far been proven to be 5354 feet deep. Incredible really, that’s over a mile. Notwithstanding this, explorations continue, so this could be only the tip of the iceberg.

Reseau Jean Bernard

This is a 5256 feet deep cave in the French Alps, in Samoëns. The cave has at least 8 entrances. Until 1980, it was considered to be the deepest cave in the world.

Torca del Cerro del Cuevon

Torca del Cerro del Cuevon also known as T-33 and La Torca de las Saxifragas. Together, these two form the deepest cave in Spain. It is considered to be the most technically difficult in the world.

Sarma

Sarma is in the Caucuses range, Georgia. It goes down up to 5062 feet. Sarma has the biggest potential to surpass Voronja and break the world record for being the deepest cave.

Shakta Vjacheslav Pantjukhina

The Bzybsky Massif in Georgia is renowned as rich in caves. More than 400 are present and just one of them that made it to our list of the deepest caves in the world which is Shakta Vjacheslav Pantjukhina. It is 4948 feet deep.

Sima de la Cornisa – Torca Magali

This is a caving system in the Picos de Europa Mountains in Spain. An international team of speleologists explored the cave last summer and managed to go down, in what they call a “bottomless pit”, to 4944 feet.

Cehi 2

Cehi 2 is slovenia’s deepest cave. It is located on Italian Slovenian borders. It is about 4982 feet deep. The depth is twice than the height of tallest man made structure in the world.
source

Best Bungee Jumping Sites

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 04:01:00 -0800

Bungee jumping is one of the most daring adventure sports around. What leaves most people breathless during a bungee venture are the rebounds that occur due to the stretching and snapping of the cord. Bungee jumping was first practiced as a rite of passage for the youths of Pentecost Island in Vanuatu.

Since the modern times, several records have been made and broken by bungee-jumpers world over. The Guinness Book of World Records of the highest bungee jump was by AJ Hackett from Macau Tower of China from an altitude of 233 meters.

Here I have compiled some of the most exciting bungee jumping sites around the globe. I hope you will like it.

Ledge Urban Bungee, Queenstown NZ

Queenstown offers a perfect combination of wild adventures and serene beauty. The Ledge Urban site is known for its unique runaway jumping style. It has a height of about 47m.

Graskop Gorge, South Africa

As a potential bungee jumping site, Graskop Gorge offers you a peerless freefall from a height of 18-19 stories of Freefall slide.

Alta Vila Tower, Brazil

The Alta Vila Tower of Nova Lima attracts site seers and bungee jumpers alike since it commands a breathtaking view of the mountain-surrounded Belo Horizonte. It has a height of 71 meters

Corinth Canal, Greece

The Corinth Canal works as a connector between mainland Greece and the Peloponnese. If you like to plunge down to the canal’s depth, just take a bungee jump from the bridge which is 79m high.

Pont de Ponsonnas, France

If you deem suspension bridges as the most exciting bungee jumping spots, this is something you can positively rave about. Pont de Ponsonnas Bridge has a height of more than a 100m.

Navajo Bridges, USA

Navajo Bridge of Marble Canyon spans across the Colorado River right over the Grand Canyon. The autumnal beauty of its natural setting makes it a lovely bungee jumping spot.

Perrine Bridge, USA

You do not need a permit for year round bungee jumping from this bridge connecting the Twin Falls area to the Jerome County. You can find several BASE jumping compeers to share the excitement.

Bloukrans Bridge, South Africa

This unique highest single span arch bridge adds much to the giddy raptures of bungee jumping. It is the highest commercial bungee jumping venue internationally with a height of 216 m.

Macau Tower, China

This 338 m tall tower holds the provisions for an observation deck for relaxing as well as for undertaking daring sports like bungee jumping or ‘sky jumping’. It counts among one of the giddiest entertainments that Macau has to offer to its visitors and locals.

Royal Gorge Suspension Bridge, USA

Hanging above the Arkansas River, this suspended bridge is an all-time favorite bungee-jumping spot because of its amazing height of 321 m.

Best Diving Places of the world

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 03:59:00 -0800

The allure of the sparkling oceans is a call that many cannot resist because of their love for marine beauty and adventure. If you belong to that gang, splashing around the romantic beaches and islands of the world should be one of the most wonderful ways to have fun.

The excitement of water sports redoubles if you are visiting some of the topmost diving destinations of the world. If you are a diving freak and raring to go places, you should not miss these real interesting facts about the best diving places of the world.

Here I have compiled some of the most fascinating diving places of the world. I hope you will like it.

The Bahamas, Western Atlantic

The Bahamas are an archipelago consisting of 700 islands extending over 100,000 square miles and it has warm ocean current influences which are responsible for the vivid marine life particularly the extensive coral reefs.

Papua New Guinea, Bismarck Sea

Papua New Guinea stands at the confluence of three seas namely the Bismarck Sea, the Solomon Sea and the Coral Sea and hence a rich site for marine flora and fauna.

Galapagos Islands

Galapagos Islands archipelago is a real paradise for scuba divers because of its wide array of gorgeous marine life and challenging geographical conditions. You must know how to tackle the marine creatures, and depth of the dive spots to enjoy the experience.

Rangiroa, Polynesia

The vast coastline of Rangiroa will tell you that it counts among the largest atolls of the world and definitely the biggest one of the Tahiti Islands. This place offer fantastic glimpses of marine wealth of French Polynesia.

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Riviera Mayo is a reef formation of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. You can see the wonderful natural phenomenon in the formation of the carbonate caves due to the commingling of fresh and saline waters.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

While you take the plunge into warm seawaters of Great Barrier Reef, you can catch sight of over 400 coral species and other endangered species of sea animals.

Little Cayman, British West Indies

The Little Cayman Islands is a UK dependency situated in the Caribbean Sea just to the south of Cuba. The north part of the island containing a protected marine park is best for diving.

Bonaire

The geographical location of Bonaire is perfect for the flourish of aquatic flora and fauns. It’s perfectly calm waters and natural shelter from trade winds encourages the growth of corals and makes a beautiful location for diving.

Bikini Atoll, Marshall Islands

Bikini Atoll and lagoon is one of the prospective sites for diving, fishing and other water sports. Bikini Atoll has also remained an experimental ground for nuclear tests conducted around the 1950s.

British Columbia, Canada

British Columbia is the most amazing diving destination of North America, thanks to its extraordinary variety of sea-life. While scuba diving you can see the beauty of the colorful algae that add to the beauty of the marine world.

10 Most Beautiful Palaces of the World

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 21:08:00 -0800

The palace is the most important building type in any country. In many ways it represents the highest level of the traditional architecture. The design palaces are focused on the order and logic so as to play up the sense of imperial power, which has distinct characteristics of nation and time.

Defined as a magnificent residence, especially for those who are Head of State or of royal lineage, many palaces are now used for other purposes like hotels, museums or parliaments.

Here is a list of some of the most amazing palaces in the world. I hope you will like it.

Chateau de Chambord

The royal chateau de Chambord, France is one of the most recognizable fort in the world because of its very distinct French Renaissance architecture that blends traditional French medieval forms with classical Italian structures.

Alhambra

The Alhambra is a palace and fortress complex of the Moorish rulers of Granada in southern Spain. The fortress was constructed during the mid 14th century, occupying a hilly terrace on the southeastern border of the city of Granada.

Potala Palace

The Potala Palace is located in Lhasa, Tibet. The Potala Palace was the chief residence of the Dalai Lama. Today the Potala Palace has been converted into a museum by the Chinese.

Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is in France. Versailles is not just famous only as a building, but as a symbol of the system of absolute monarchy of the Ancien Régime. Garden of Versailles is one of the most beautiful in the world.

Summer Palace, China

The Summer Palace is a palace in Beijing, China. The central Kunming Lake covering 2.2 square kilometers was entirely man made and the excavated soil was used to build Longevity Hill. In the Summer Palace, one finds a variety of palaces, gardens, and other classical-style architectural structures.

Schonbrunn Palace

Schönbrunn Palace is a royal residence in Vienna, Austria. One of the most important cultural monuments in the country, since the 1960s it has been one of the major tourist attractions in Vienna. The palace and gardens illustrate the tastes, interests, and aspirations of successive Habsburg monarchs.

Mysore Palace

The Palace of Mysore is a palace situated in the city of Mysore. India. It was the official residence of the former royal family of Mysore. It is now one of the most famous tourist attractions in Mysore.

Pena National Palace

The Pena National is the one of the oldest in Portugal. The palace stands on the top of a hill above the town of Sintra, and on a clear day it can be easily seen from Lisbon.

Forbidden City, China

The Forbidden City was the Chinese imperial palace from the Ming Dynasty. It is located in the middle of Beijing, China, and now houses the Palace Museum. For almost five centuries, it served as the home of the Emperor and his household, as well as the ceremonial and political centre of Chinese government.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is the official London residence of the British monarch. Located in the City of Westminster, the palace is a setting for state occasions and royal hospitality. It has been a rallying point for the British people at times of national rejoicing and crisis.

10 Most Magnificent Aquariums in the World

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 21:07:00 -0800

The impression the world’s most stunning aquariums leave can only be described as magical, beautiful, and ravishing. Whether it is the largest aquarium in the world or an innovative acrylic cylinder, visiting these places will make you believe that you step into an underwater world.

Here I have compiled some of the largest and magnificently built aquariums in the world. I hope you will like it.

Oceanarium, Portugal

Lisbon’s aquarium is fully dedicated to the ocean’s ecosystem. The complex, opened in 199. The queen of this underwater kingdom is the sunfish the heaviest bony fish in the world (1,000 kg).

AQWA, Australia

Another place where you can experience the underwater realm with its abundant marine life is the Aqwa, the Aquarium of the Western Australia. The AQWA’s fish collection includes 8 different types of sharks.

Oceanografic, Valencia

The Aquarium in Valencia lies in the heart of the stunning futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. It is the largest open-air oceanographic park in Europe that takes up 110,000 square meters of space.

The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, Japan

This is the second largest and one of the most enchanting aquariums in the world. Its main tank is so large that it deserved to be named Kuroshio Sea. It holds 7,500-cubic meters of water.

AquaDom, Berlin

The AquaDom is the most unusual of the world’s aquariums. It is a 25 m tall acrylic glass aquarium of cylindrical shape. The built-in glass elevator takes visitors up on a tour through the aquarium filled with around 2,600 fish of 56 species.

Dubai Mall Aquarium

This is a record-breaking aquarium featuring the largest acrylic panel, bigger than the one at Churaumi Aquarium in Okinawa. The aquarium features around 33,000 fishes and sea animals of 85 species.

Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium has around 100,000 animals of 500 different and is largest aquarium in the world which contains around 8.1 million gallons of sea and fresh water. Georgia Aquarium is the only aquarium outside Asia that keeps the whale sharks.

London Aquarium

The Sea Life London Aquarium is located on the ground floor of County Hall on the South Bank of the River Thames in central London, near the London Eye. It first opened in 1997. The aquarium claims that a million visitors a year view its displays.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Monterey Bay Aquarium was founded in 1984 is located on the Pacific Ocean shoreline in Monterey, California. It has an annual attendance of 1.8 million and holds 35,000 plants and animals representing 623 species.

The Deep Aquarium, England

The Deep is a large underwater aquarium situated at Sammy’s Point, Hull, England. It opened in March 2002. Billed as ‘the world’s only submarium,the tanks contain thousands of sea creatures including seven species of shark, 2.5 million liters of water and 87 tones of salt

10 Most Luxurious and Scenic Train Rides of the World

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 21:03:00 -0800

In a modern world where traveling between destinations is viewed as a waste of time and resources, it is hard to actually comprehend the beauty of some of the most spectacular rides on the planet. Far less comfortable, yet far more beautiful and interesting, the time spent between two destinations is equally captivating and offers many sights and sounds.

While we are very much in a century where we have ‘no time to stand and stare’, there are still some awesome train rides across the globe where the trip itself turns into a destination.

So here I have compiled some of the most luxurious and scenic train rides of the world.

Glacier Express

Arguably the slowest ‘express’ on the planet, the 180 mile ride on this delightful route offers to catch a glimpse of the magical panorama that lies on its path.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Linking some of the best cities of Europe including London, Venice, Rome, Budapest or Prague, the Orient Express is the most charming way to travel on tracks.

Pride of Africa

The Pride of Africa is a train journey that no nature lover should ever miss if they wish to explore the beauty, majesty and the hidden grandeur of the spectacular Dark Continent at a leisurely pace.

Euro star

While not many will really be happy with the fact that you get to spend plenty of time in the Euro star under the sea, it sure offers a great mix of comfort and class.

Flam Railway

This train ride is one of the world’s longest fjords Sogne Fjord. The ride looks both enthralling and hair-raising with its narrow passage way and the unforgettable sights.

Eastern & Oriental Express

Stretching between the ultra-modern Singapore and Bangkok, and traveling through lush green tropical forests, the Eastern and Oriental Express is modern, stylish and comfortable.

Royal Scotsman

It’s the most expensive train ride on the planet. The trip offers a great passage through little known waterfalls, mountains and valleys; it is obviously not for everyone.

Alaska Railroad

The famous Alaskan Railroad offers you a multitude of tours and packages that will take you through an exclusive journey across glaciers, waterfalls, rivers, mountains and all the snow that covers the region.

The Ghan

Connecting Adelaide, Alice Springs and Darwin, the Ghan is the ultimate Australian rail adventure that is coupled with unparalleled luxury. The journey takes you through Australia’s most beautiful regions and the special service on the train will pamper you as you go along.

Jungfraubahn

The journey might be short, but traveling to the highest railway station in Europe has its special appeal and the ride itself will present you with views of mountains, rivers and valleys that will all look postcard-perfect!

10 Best Countries for Medical Tourism

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 21:40:00 -0800

In the last decade, medical tourism has hit the tipping point as a viable alternative to overpriced domestic procedures. Why buy a $3,000 dental crown treatment in the United States when you can get the same thing–plus a flight, hotel, and fun tourism opportunities far less in Hungary?

Here are the 10 best countries for medical tourism, ranked by appeal, specialties, and popularity.

Lithuania

If you’re interested in latest-craze stem cell treatment, look to the Baltics for treatment. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, which helps cancer patients and people with blood diseases, is all the rage in Vilnius, the capitol of Lithuania. They also do more mundane treatments, like gastric bypass and back surgery.

Turkey

Every year, nearly 200,000 people head to Turkey for eye treatments like Lasik surgery. Once your new peepers are intact, tourism companies bus you around to see beautiful sites, like the Blue Mosque. Sounds like a deal!

India

Ayurvedic treatments, yoga, and meditation have long been staples of Indian health tourism. Now, millions of people are also taking annual “dental holidays” to India because quality procedures can be as much as 10 times cheaper than at home. For example, a root canal only costs about $100.

Israel

Israel is famous for its low-cost cancer treatment centers. Once that marrow transplant takes, you can recover with special therapies that use Dead Sea mineral salts.

Costa Rica

Costa Ricans are famous for growing old gracefully. Now we know why: Costa Rica is leading the world in what they like to call “age management” in beautifully-located “medical spas.”

Hungary

German influence and an influx of former healthcare professionals have contributed to Hungary’s state-of-the-art medical technology. Dental procedures, from crowns to root canals, cost 40-60% less than western prices. Apparently, the anesthesia is world class but I guess you probably won’t remember.

Egypt

Prices for plastic surgery in Egypt are 60-70% lower than corresponding treatments in the US or UK. A thigh liposuction, for example, is done for a mere $260 in Egypt. The same procedure can cost up to $2,000 in the US and $3,000 in the UK.

South Africa

South Africa specializes in medical safaris. You visit the country for a safari, make a stopover for plastic surgery, and get the chance to see lions and elephants. The first human heart transplant was performed here in 1967, so quality shouldn’t be of concern.

Malaysia

Malaysia’s quality of care, low prices, and beautiful beaches attract customers seeking a range of treatments. You can get your knee replaced, face lifted, and cataracts removed, and then spend hours recovering on the serene beach.

Thailand

A Research of a group of Thai men and women has lead to the creation of one of the world’s best medical systems. Phuket, Thailand is world renowned for “aesthetic” plastic surgery procedures such as otoplasty and blepharoplasty.

source

10 Most Luxurious Cruises of the World

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 21:36:00 -0800

Cruises make wonderful family vacations. Large cruise ships cater to all ages and many offer interesting and educational age-specific children’s programs. With over 60 cruise lines and almost 300 cruise ships to choose from, selecting the right cruise line for your family is often difficult.

Here I have compiled some of the most luxurious cruises of the world. I may have missed out some. So feel free to comment. Thanks.

Silversea, Silver Shadow

Silversea is the only six-star cruise liner in the world. It has lavishly decorated Owner’s Suite, Kitted out with plasma TV, a CD player, a Lavazza espresso maker, complementary butler service.

Windstar Cruises, Wind Spirit

Carrying just 148 privileged passengers; the Windstar Wind Spirit is a motored sail yacht like no other. Inside, you’ll be able to relax with a drink, enjoy a five-star meal, gamble the night away, or get the adrenalines pumping in the sea by the Water sports.

Crystal Cruises, Crystal Serenity

Crystal Serenity ups the glamor stakes in the world of cruising, with one of the highest guest-per-space ratios at sea. It features new hip dining venues such as Tastes, Silk Road and The Sushi Bar.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney isn’t just for kids. Enjoy adult-oriented amenities, such as the spa, fitness center, nightclub, several gourmet restaurants, and an adults-only retreat with good coffee, books, and WiFi Internet access.

Carnival, Spirit

Little touches make this cruise extra special, such as an escort for ladies entering the dining room. Other unexpected freebies include bottles of champagne on arrival, a complimentary in-suite mini-bar, drinks, and wine with lunch and dinner.

Regent, Seven Seas Voyager

It has a constellation theater, casino, fitness center, aerobics room, swimming pool, miniature golf course, paddle tennis court, and onboard Carita Spa one of the most luxurious spas in the world.

Orient Express, the Road to Mandalay

This five-star ship offers a super-luxurious cruise up the Ayeyarwady River in Myanmar. Your needs will be more than accommodated as you relax in your well-appointed state cabin.

Royal Caribbean, Freedom of the Seas

This ship has an interactive water park, cantilevered whirlpools, a rock-climbing wall, a miniature golf course, a full-size basketball court, and an ice-skating rink.

Nikki Beach at Sea

When it opens in 2009, the $498 million cruise liner will offer it all. The floating resort comprises a super Las Vegas-style casino, modeling agency, indoor theater, outdoor concert arena, shopping arcade, and a cosmetic surgery clinic.

Queen Mary 2

QM2, as it is better known, is as grand as cruising gets 15 world-class restaurants and bars, five swimming pools, a casino, a ballroom, a theater, and a planetarium.

source

10 Most Beautiful National Parks of the World

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 01:11:00 -0800

National parks are wholly an American invention, but it is one thing that started there but has gone on to spread around the globe. More than 130 countries now have taken action to protect certain areas within their borders to ensure that the natural resources there are protected for future generations to come.

Here I have compiled some of the most beautiful national parks of the world. As they are so many I may have missed out some. So feel free to comment.

Snowdonia National Park, Wales, Great Britain

Snowdonia is a lovely mountain park, with Mount Snowdon, which is comprised of slate, rising to 3560 feet. It is spectacular in its own right, due in part to its peaceful nature.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

You sure have heard of this one – the Grand Canyon is one of the major wonders of the world, and no matter how ‘touristy’ it may seem to want to go there, one glimpse of the sheer size of this gorge will blow you away.

Kruger National Park, South Africa

This is perhaps the most impressive wildlife viewing area in the world. Millions of acres of habitat and little development give visitors an opportunity to see many large African mammals and magnificent birds.

Deosai National Park

The Deosai National Park is located in the Skardu, Pakistan. The Park is located on the Deosai Plains that are among the highest plateaus in the world. Deosai is well known for its spring season when it is covered by a carpet of millions of flowers and a wide variety of butterflies.

Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory, Australia

This World Heritage Site is jointly managed by the Aborigines and the Australian government. It has magnificent vistas, great waterfalls, stunning displays of Aboriginal rock art, and is habitat to an awesome predator, the saltwater crocodile.

Iguazu National Park Argentina

This park protects one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu Falls and the surrounding subtropical forest. A thrilling experience is the short boat ride and walk along the catwalks to the most striking of the hundreds of falls.

Sagarmantha National Park, Nepal

The park includes Mount Everest, among other prominent mountains. It has distinctive wildlife and small picturesque Sherpa villages with their monasteries.

Madain Saley National Historic Park, Saudi Arabia

This region, the Biblical Midian, is mostly undulating desert, interspersed with huge rocky outcrops and lush oases. Here, between 500 B.C. and 100 A.D., the Nabatean people created 125 monumental cut-rock tombs and facades that are standing today in a remarkable state of preservation.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Plitvice Lakes National Park is located in inland Croatia. In moderately mountainous terrain, the park features small lakes and streams and beautiful waterfalls everywhere. Because of the geology of the area, travertine is evident in most of the water features, giving them distinctive blue-green colors and exceptionally clear water.

Hortobagy National Park, Hungary

It was the Hungary’s first national park. It has several endangered bird species and is a refuge for the Przewalski horse and migratory waterfowl.
source

5 Tips For A Green Vacation

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:59:00 -0800

Ah, Summer is almost upon us, and that means most American families are plotting madly to get out of town for a week.
Photo:
Image from Kaydee did on Flickr
Never mind that the economy is in the tank, or that you'll use just under half of your vacation days at once-- it's time to go to the beach! But wait... before you slam the kids in that minivan and speed off: there's a greener way.
5. Don't Travel As Far
In one of those special instances where environmentalism saves you a ton of money, the simplest piece of advice is one that most Americans aren't likely to follow, even in this hour of $4.00 gasoline: stay close to home. Heck, even stay home: if you live in a major city, there are probably loads of museums, parks, baseball games, and restaurants that you haven't been to. But if you MUST travel-- try to stay within 100-150 miles of home. Your wallet, and the planet, will thank you.

Photo:
Image from Stuckincustoms on Flickr
4. Find A Green Hotel
This may seem like a monstrous task, but it's not-- check this registry of environmentally friendly hotels. They're standing ready to assist in your eco-escape, conserving waste, and committed to reducing their toll on the planet.
Photo:
Image from Flickr
3. Take the Train
Rail travel isn't quite dead in the U.S., which is good, because it features some of the lowest carbon emissions per-traveler of any form of transport. In order of most polluting, it goes: airplanes, cars, trains, and coach buses--but I don't know many people who think of Greyhound as a good way to get around anymore. "Boost that failing government-subsidized rail system, America!"
Photo:
Image from Flickr
2. Buy Local Souveneirs
This is hard, seeing as how we're nationally addicted to airbrushed t-shirts and plastic toys, but buy local goods when you travel. Supporting a local artist doesn't just do more for the economy of the place that you're visiting, it cuts the cost of transporting all of those mass-produced tourist trap souvenirs. And besides, taking home art, or cooking ingredients from a place you can't get at home, is far more interesting.
Photo:
Image from Flickr
1. Minimize Waste
I know, that seems like a gimme-- but it's not. Turn off your thermostat when you're not home. Take the pets to a sitter, or board them, rather than leaving them in the house with some neighbor stopping in to check on them. Pack a couple of water bottles so you don't have to buy bottles of water everywhere you go. Common sense still applies on vacation, as odd as that seems.
Photo:
Image from Flickr

Dakeekathlrimjingia Point Just Rolls Off The Tounge, Doesn't It?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:58:00 -0800

Alaska, one of the few places on the North American continent where names predating the arrival of European settlers are still in common use, is updating its registry of place names.
Photo:
Image from Rick Clark on Flickr
This will no doubt shed more light on the living history of the still largely isolated state. With such luminaries as Lost Temper Creek, Eek, Chicken, and, in that pre-European tradition, Sagavanirktok, (a villiage named after an Inuit word for strong current) one can't help wonder how difficult the job of updating Alaskan place names might be.
The previous edition of the "Directory of Alaska Place Names", last published in 1971 by the U.S. Geological Survey, ran over 1,000 pages, and has received periodic appendices ever since. Despite the USGS website offering the information in an up-to-date format on their website, Alaska-based Todd Communications is printing the updated version of the directory for a 2009 release, with the idea that a book is more easily browsed and enjoyed than the digital reference presently available.
And what of the places in Alaska's vast wilderness that don't have names?
They may never get them, reports the state historian-- Alaska has a philosophy of protecting nature, even from man's impulse to label.

Walking Along the Scariest Path in The World

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:55:00 -0800

Photo:
image via Wikipedia
The area of El Chorro situated in the south of Spain is renowned amongst travelers and mountain hikers for its stunning scenery and climbs, yet this is not the main attraction on offer, El Chorro is host to one of the most dangerous walkways in the world, built by workers to transport materials between the Chorro and Gaitanejo Falls.

Amid the beautiful scenery, the El Chorro gorge is also host to a few caves which have began to excite many archaeologists. One cave named “Trinidad Grund” contains cave paintings that may date back 25.000 years.
Photo:
image via Wikipedia
Nevertheless, it is most known for its hair rasing walkway constructed in the early 1920’s, known as El Camino del Rey This path is flanked on the right side by a huge gorge and the other has no handrail offering no protection from falling kilometers down. To make matters worse, it hasn’t been maintained for several decades - some parts of the walkway have fallen increasing its potential fatality.
As you can imagine, many travelers and adventurers have walked the path, but local authorities were forced to close the King’s walkway to the public after a number of tourists lost their lives in the venture.
The Spanish officials say they will provide the necessary funding for the restoration of the King’s walkway. After maintenance is completed, the path may be reopened to tourists, but you have the chance to take a few nervous steps on it, I leave you with this breathtaking video:

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

10 Best Places to See Sunset in the World

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:23:00 -0800

Most of us associate sunsets with beaches or water. Watching the sun slowly descend and disappear beyond the horizon while a riot of color bursts and paints the sky with bright hues. We also picture sunsets with anything tropical when white sandy beaches, clear blue water and palm trees, frame the coastline creating the perfect backdrop for a sunset.

But sunsets embellish any setting, and the effect is just as stunning when it’s experienced beyond the waters. Here I have compiled some of the best places to see sunset. I may have missed out some so please feel free to comment.

Sentosa Island, Singapore

Sentosa is a small island just off the coast of Singapore. The sunsets here take on a unique beauty as there are dozens of oil refineries in the distance on the horizon, & as the sun dips the smoke from the refineries make for a dazzling display of color.

Ipanema Beach, Rio de Janeiro

Everything is beautiful at this beach let alone the sunset. After a long day of doing absolutely nothing in the hot sun, a person can come here to relax, sit at a beachside cafe and watch the day turn into night.

The Maldives, Indian Ocean

The Maldives is an island nation in the middle of the Indian Ocean famous for its untouched beaches, and serene beauty. The sunsets are amazing.

Cape Town, South Africa

There isn’t an experience like watching the sun set on Christmas Eve as you sit on the strand looking at Table Mount in the distance, and reflect upon the long day you spent on the beautiful beach.

Grand Canyon, Arizona

Well it’s a big canyon, in the middle of a huge desert, which is completely isolated hence the word deserted being a derivative of desert. And when the sun sets here, well the colors are truly amazing.

Great Pyramids, Egypt

This is beautiful just to think about. A large red ball of fire dropping below the desert horizon but just before it does it stops just long enough to be even with the pyramids and give you that image you’ve been waiting your whole life for.

Serengeti, Tanzania

Pure beauty is the sun setting on the African plains as you watch an antelope herd from the back of a Land Rover. Not many people get to experience that.

Taj Mahal, India

I don’t know if anyone reading this has ever seen a picture of the sun setting just beyond the Taj Mahal, but if they have then they surely understand why it takes such a high spot. There aren’t many places in the world to see such a sight as a sunset like this.

Santorini, Greece

Universally considered the world’s best place to watch the sunset, the northern village of Oia offers spectacular views of the ocean, the island of Ios in the distance, and the sun dipping into the Aegean.

Santa Monica Pier, Los Angeles

There’s nothing quite like watching the sunset from the Santa Monica Pier. Imagine the setting waves crashing along the shore, a seal lies on the beach after a long day and ferries wheel light up the pier, people are playing miniature golf all of that coupled with a sun setting into the beautiful Pacific.

The Hillscapes of the Cinque Terre

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 6 Feb 2012 23:31:00 -0800

Photo:
Image: Federico
With summer just around the corner, it’s time again to think about where to spend one’s vacation. One region’s photos have been all over the Internet yet it gets misrepresented frequently. We’re talking about Cinque Terre in northern Italy, not one town but five in the province of La Spezia in Liguria, famous for its scenic beauty, colourful houses and much more. Time to set the record straight.
The name Cinque Terre means “five lands” and refers today to the villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore on the coast of the Italian Riviera (from north to south).
Manarola is probably the most photographed village because of its assortment of colourful houses nestled comfortably on the cliff.

Manarola in (almost) natural colours:
Photo:
Unknown photographer via xemanhdep
Then again, the picturesque harbour of Vernazza might be the most photographed:
Photo:
Image: pizzodisevo
Here, the colourful boats that can usually be found in one of Cinque Terre's many harbours:
Photo:
Image: Idefix
The Cinque Terre region is well known for its beauty and attracts many visitors each year, not only from Italy and Europe but from all over the globe. Good that car traffic is not allowed and that visitors are instead forced to discover the region on foot, by train or by boat. A hiking trail of varying degrees of difficulty connects all five villages.
But even roaming around the five towns requires some sturdy shoes and a solid constitution:
Photo:
Image: in da mood
Over the centuries, the villages that make up Cinque Terre have carefully been built on terraces, right up to the top of the cliffs. Even today, modern buildings have not been constructed, giving the villages their distinct look with steep, cobble-stoned roads, stone houses and lots of colour.
A timeless, scenic street in Corniglia:
Photo:
Image: pizzodisevo
Cinque Terre was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1997 and together with Portovenere and the islands of Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto forms the Cinque Terre National Park, a project set up in 1999 to conserve and protect the distinct characteristics of the landscape.
View of the Italian Riveria from Riomaggiore:
Photo:
Image: Rob Inh00d
For those not too impressed with scenic beauty, a visit to any of the villages of Cinque Terre will still be worth their while as the region is famous for local delicacies like the two locally made wines (Cinque Terre and Sciachetra), olives, pesto sauce, focaccia bread and farinata, a crunchy pancake popular as a snack.
And then there are always the beaches, which all five villages have plenty of. Below is a giant Neptune statue in Monterosso al Mar, fittingly right on the beach. Don’t miss the typical Italian stone structures, now taken over by cacti and other succulents.
Monterosso al Mar:
Photo:
Image: Lee Coursey
Houses in Riomaggiore, all with the typical green shutters to keep the summer sun out:
Photo:
Image: Rob Inh00d
For those of us who won't make it to Italy this year, we can at least enjoy the pictures. Again and again.
Vernazza at night:
Photo:
Image via Leslie Italy
Source: 1, 2, 3

The Enthralling Symmetry of Beach Umbrellas

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 5 Feb 2012 02:15:00 -0800

Photo:
Image via miss lissa
A day at the beach: people, beach towels, chairs, sand, the smell of sun tan lotion, sea, sun and beach umbrellas. What seems like random beach activity is actually quite an organised environment, from colours to chairs to those saviours of the pale – the beach umbrellas whose arrangements structure life at the beach. See for yourself how the whole beach experience has become less haphazard and more picturesque.
All-natural umbrellas mimicking the desert mountain range in Kalawy Bay at the Red Sea:

Photo:
Image: joadl
Did you know that an umbrella is colloquially also called gamp, mush, brolly, umbrellery or – our favourite – bumbershoot, a fancy Americanism from the 19th century? Whatever you call your parasol, meaning shield (para) from the sun (sol), it is a beach essential.
Overwhelmingly orange with bursts of turquoise – Positano at the Amalfi Coast, Italy:
Photo:
Image: designatednaphour
Now you see it, now you don’t – camouflaged beach with palapa umbrellas in Tenerife:
Photo:
Image: Piotrus
Left right, left right, don’t you dare step out of line! Neat beach in Pesaro, Italy:
Photo:
Image via tripadvisor
Red, blue and green beach umbrellas and chairs in rows at Mamaia Beach, Romania:
Photo:
Image: phototouring
Under my umbrella, 'ella, 'ella at Cliffside Beach, Nantucket, in the 1950s:
Photo:
Image: Louis Davidson
Dot, dot, dot and round the bend – beach life in Monterosso al Mare, Cinqueterre, Italy:
Photo:
Image: Barbara Weibel
At the end of the day at Sunny Beach somewhere in Bulgaria:
Photo:
Image: Victor Frankowski
Surreal night beach in Roquetas de Mar, Spain:
Photo:
Image: Frank C. Müller
What are you waiting for, get your bumbershoot, your camera and a good book and get out there!
Source: 1

Bora Bora from Above

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 5 Feb 2012 02:12:00 -0800

Photo:
Image: Miloslav
Is there a limit to how much beauty one can take? We don’t think an overdose of beauty has ever harmed anyone, so here’s Bora Bora from above: white beaches, turquoise water, lush green vegetation… some islands have it all. Oh wait, did we mention the lagoon, the barrier reef and the extinct volcano yet? Enjoy!
Bora Bora is one of the 16 islands forming the cluster of South Pacific atolls that make up the Society Islands, the biggest and most well-known being Tahiti with the region’s capital, Papeete. Nine of those islands, the northwestern ones, make up the Leeward Islands, the administrative subdivision that Bora Bora belongs to. The Society Islands are part of French Polynesia and have been a colony since 1880. They cover almost 1,600 sq km (610 sq miles) and are populated by 228,000 inhabitants.
Green mountains in blue waters:

Photo:
Image: Tim Mc Kenna
Bora Bora’s share of that population is a mere 4% with 8,900 people who live on 29 sq km (11 sq miles). However, given that the island’s main source of income is tourism, the amount of people on the island on any given day is actually higher.
In Polynesian languages, the reef islets around Bora Bora are called motus. They were formed by the broken corals and sand surrounding an atoll. The ones shown below are medium-size motus at about 300 m in diameter.
Motus with Bora Bora in the background:
Photo:
Image: makemake
Bora Bora exemplifies what Charles Darwin called an “almost atoll,” a barrier reef island formed by an oceanic volcano with a fringing coral reef. Over the course of the years, as the surrounding coral reef grows upward, the island with the volcano sinks. The fringing reef becomes a barrier reef that maintains itself while the inner part of the reef with less favorable conditions for corals turns into a lagoon. A further stage would be the extinct volcano being carried below the ocean surface by subsidence while the barrier reef remains.
Photo:
An animation of coral atoll formation: NOAA
The islands name is said to go back to the Tahitian Pora Pora, meaning “First Born.” Polynesian settlers in the 4th century called the island Vava’u. Undisturbed until the 18th century, the island was first sighted by Dutch explorer Jakob Roggeveen in 1722. He didn’t stop though on his way to Terra Australis and discovered Easter Island instead. Bora Bora was safe for another 47 years until James Cook sighted the island in 1769. Eight years later, he landed and since then, Bora Bora has had its fair share of visitors.
Whoever visits these blue waters doesn't really want to leave:
Photo:
Image: Duncan Rawlinson
In 1820, the London Missionary Society arrived and promptly founded a Protestant church in 1822. French admiral Abel Aubert Dupetit Thouars hardly lost time and declared the island a protectorate of France in 1842 that has remained under French jurisdiction ever since.
Bora Bora came close to some violent action during World War II when the United States, after entering in the war in December 1941, decided to make the beautiful island their South Pacific military supply base. In no time, an oil depot, air strip, seaplane base, defenses and seven massive naval canons reminded everyone even at this remote location that the world was at war.
Strategic location in the South Pacific - can you spot any war remnants?
Photo:
Image: Christopher Kendall
Luckily, the American presence on Bora Bora was never contested and thus the island saw no combat. The airstrip became French Polynesia’s only international airport until the ‘60s and all military paraphernalia not used elsewhere tourist attractions. And the thousands of soldiers stationed on Bora Bora? Well, what do you think? Would you leave once fate dropped you in paradise? Exactly. So though the base was officially closed in June 1946 and quite a contingent of military personnel left for home, many refused to leave and made Bora Bora their home. And probably lived happily ever after.
The classic island picture:
Photo:
Image: Jean Sebastien Roy
Below are three photographic renditions of Bora Bora, Tahaa and Raiatea (from top to bottom). The left image is a Landsat image with clouds and reefs; the center one is an SIR-C image with waves, wind effects and unobstructed island topography; and the one on the right an SRTM-image that adds topographic height and colour coding.
Keyhole or footprint?
Photo:
Image: NASA/JPL/NGA
Today, Bora Bora is known for its scenic beauty and stilt bungalows that offer tourist accommodation throughout the year. And, luckily, Bora Bora has been photographed even from space so that we don’t even need to hop onto a plane; all we have to do is click to share this natural beauty.
Upscale bungalows on stilts:
Photo:
Image: Duncan Rawlinson
All that's left of the old volcano - the peaks of Mount Pahina and Mount Otemanu:
Photo:
Image: Mila Zinkova
View from the lagoon:
Photo:
Image: Jacopo Werther
Bora Bora under cotton clouds as seen from Space:
Photo:
Image: NASA
Sources: 1, 2, 3

The Incredible Terraced Chalk Ponds of Pamukkale

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 3 Feb 2012 23:56:00 -0800

Photo:
Image: Sunrise1
What looks like a winter wonderland is actually a summer landscape with hot springs, crusted with calcium deposits. Pamukkale, in south western Turkey, is a natural mineral-bath spa first built by the Romans around a sacred hot spring and still open to the public as the Sacred Pool today. Let’s find out more about this natural phenomenon and see some stunning pictures.

How can this not be a winter wonderland?
Photo:
Image: yasushi00
What exactly happens at Pamukkale? The calcium-laden water from natural hot springs cascades over a cliff and forms the incredible white terraces that look like they're decorated with stalactites. They are travertines, actually, calcium deposits frozen in stone as the water cools in the open and the calcium separates and attaches to the soil.
Chalk terraces:
Photo:
Image: Patrick-Emil Zörner
The hot springs are said to be more than 2,000 years old and the Romans first built the spa city at Hierapolis, capitalising on the natural beauty and the hot springs’ health benefits. A visitor to Pamukkale in 1967 remembers the springs:

“The water was still pouring freely in floods over the cliffs, refreshing and re-purifying the white travertine cascades. Shopkeepers put bottles of local wine into the channels of hot water, and after a few days, each bottle would be completely coated in pure white calcium. What the wine tasted like I can't say, but the bottles were beautiful in their coats of pure white calcium.”

Soon, word of Pamukkale’s beauty spread and the number of visitors increased: They came by car, bus and taxi; first from neighboring cities, then from further away and even abroad. The village at the foot of the "cotton castle" (Pamukkale's translation from Turkish) turned into a proper town in no time, with tea and snack stalls, restaurants, hotels and motels to accommodate the growing number of overnight visitors.
The town of Pamukkale at the foot of the hot springs today:
Photo:
Image: Kitkatcrazy
Photo:
Image: Michael Frey
Unfortunately, as is often the case, too much attention is not always a good thing. The only road connecting the hot springs with the world ended right next to them, causing a lot of pollution. People even rode bikes and motorbikes up and down the slopes. Hot water from the springs was used to fill hotel pools and waste water collected in the springs’ pools, turning them brownish. Some visitors walked around in the springs with their shoes on and others mistook them for private bathtubs and washed themselves in them with soap and shampoo. Soon, Pamukkale lost its glory and attracted fewer visitors.
The hot springs of Pamukkale:
Photo:
Image: Mila Zinkova
This was Pamukkale’s unprotected state until the Pamukkale-Hierapolis area was declared a World Heritage Site in 1988. In the 1990s, local authorities undertook a development project that restricted access to the site and imposed restrictions on visitors. Though some of the measures might not be ideal – the drop-off point is quite far from the springs and no transport is provided – at least efforts are being made to protect this unique site and to restore its former glory. Pamukkale is still very much worth a trip.
Pamukkale boasts many Roman ruins, here the amphitheatre:
Photo:
Image: Joonas Plaan
More structured fun today:
Photo:
Image: Ivar Abrahamsen
Sunset over the Pamukkale terraces:
Photo:
Image: Wolfgang Beyer
Sources: 1, 2, 3

The Land of Cuckoo Clocks & Environmental Beauty

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 3 Feb 2012 23:54:00 -0800

Photo:
All images via MySwitzerland
Although often associated with banks, cuckoo clocks, chocolate and cheese, it's less commonly known that Switzerland is also one of the most environmentally friendly countries in the world. Travelling there offers fresh alpine air and spectacular mountainous scenery, but behind the scenes, less appreciable things are going on to keep it that way. Discover why Switzerland is keeping it green and what you could savour by taking an eco-friendly trip there.
Green wonderland: A typical Appenzell house in typical Appenzell countryside

Photo:
In Switzerland, you might want to stay in a green resort like Palace Hotel St. Moritz, a luxury hotel that incredibly manages to heat itself by extracting energy from ice-cold water sucked from Lake St. Moritz. As for travelling around the country, low-polluting train travel is easily accessible – the Swiss are the keenest rail users on the planet – and Switzerland is also a bike friendly nation with a growing number of nature parks to explore on two wheels.
One prominent green landmark is Oberburg near Burgdorf’s Zero Energy House, the first building to be heated totally by solar energy. Meanwhile, the soon to be completed, high-tech Monte Rosa Hut, overlooking Zermatt 3000 meters up in glacier country, will be up to 90 percent energy-independent. Add an abundance of organic products to buy and lake water of such good quality that you can safely drink it, and Switzerland begins to sound pretty darn green and clean.
Green Fantasy: Spring in the Swiss canton of Thurgau
Photo:
Compared to most countries, Switzerland takes a pretty tough stance on pollution. A record-setting 96 percent of the glass used in Switzerland is recycled, and it also boasts a unique and pioneering system whereby old batteries are turned into raw materials for manufacturing new products. Switzerland’s electricity-generating network is almost CO2-free, and it has brought in ground-breaking legislation to help further reduce the amount of pollution.The Swiss also charge fees for their water and waste management services and apply environmental taxes to promote personal responsibility.
It’s refreshing to hear about Switzerland’s environmental policies; some green lessons are there to be learned and shared.
Learn more here: sustainable Switzerland
Photo:
Source: 1

Bolivia’s Interminable Mirror to the Sky

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 3 Feb 2012 04:14:00 -0800

Photo:
Image: digitaljunglist
Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia is a place people don’t just visit. Rather, they inhale its vastness and colours with every fibre of their being. Salar de Uyuni is a place of superlatives – the world’s largest salt flat, world’s biggest reserve of lithium, the best place on Earth to callibrate satellites – in short: a visual miracle and mirror to the sky. Be warned, the following pictures will be unlike any you have ever seen!
Modern sky caravan:

Photo:
Image: Micah MacAllen
Salar de Uyuni is located in Bolivia’s southwestern regions of Oruno and Potosi, near the peak of the Andes at an altitude of 3,650 m. More than 40,000 years ago, the area was part of the giant prehistoric Lake Minchin that has since dried out, leaving behind the two lakes, Poopo and Uru Uru, and the two salt deserts, Salar de Coipasa and Salar de Uyuni. The latter is the larger of the two and at 10,582 sq km (4,085 sq miles) is around 25 times the size of Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats.
Visitors grappling with the vastness of the place and the high altitude are in for a special treat during the rainy season in the winter: The whole desert turns into a shallow pool with a smooth surface, a gigantic mirror in other words.
The salt desert after the rains, at sunset:
Photo:
Image: Luca Galuzzi
Many a visitor, blinded by the reflecting sun and lost for words upon being immersed in this natural beauty, is said to have forgotten about their camera, simply gaping in awe...
... while others feel like jumping among the clouds:
Photo:
Image: Lorena Fernandez Calvo
Standing on a giant mirror:
Photo:
Image: Ezequiel Cabrera
Considering Salar de Uyuni’s remoteness, it is quite a popular place, and not only with tourists. Miners working in Salar produce a whopping 25,000 tons of salt every year; still a drop in the bucket compared to the overall reserves of 10 billion tons of salt that Salar de Uyuni has to offer.
Salt is harvested the traditional way in Salar de Uyuni: The salt is piled up into small mounds so that the water can evaporate, then it is dried over fire and finally enriched with iodine before it is brought elsewhere for packaging.
Salt mounds, reflected endlessly:
Photo:
Image: Consuelo Poblete
Salar de Uyuni also holds half of the world’s reserves of lithium, used to make high-energy density lithium batteries, an untapped resource so far. Let’s just hope that once a mining plant is built, it won’t interfere too much with the magic of Salar de Uyuni.
As is not hard to imagine, Salar de Uyuni provides an excellent target surface for testing and calibration for satellites, or more specifically their remote sensing instruments. The clear skies, dry air, minimal elevation deviation, large, smooth surface and high surface reflectivity during the rainy season make Salar de Uyuni five times better geared for satellite calibration than the ocean’s surface.
Where the sky never ends - what could possibly top Salar at sunrise?
Photo:
Image: Edank
... Salar de Uyuni covered with hundreds of pink flamingoes and their reflections:
Photo:
Image: Phil Whitehouse
Once a year, in November, Salar de Uyuni becomes the breeding ground for three South American flamingo species: the Chilean, James’s and Andean flamingoes. The flamingoes feast on the microbes attracted by mineral and potassium deposits that crust the shallow salt lake like a ring of snow. Says Molly Beer who experienced all of Salar de Uyuni’s highlights during a recent tour:

“The landscape was ever-changing and never expected: the water and the rocks first were red, and then turquoise and green with minerals and microbes. The creatures we came across were unearthly, let alone unlikely in their barren, windswept habitats.”

Where the sky never ends…
Photo:
Image: YoshiVic
Definitely worth a trip. Some day. Until then, we’ll just feast on the pictures. Again and again.
Sources: 1, 2, 3

The Chapel that Rises 280ft from a Massive Lava Plug

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 3 Feb 2012 04:13:00 -0800

Photo:
Image via gronze
Saint Michel d’Aiguilhe in Le Puy en Velay in southern France seems to grow out of the rock it was built on in the 10th century. The steep climb – 268 steps to the top, 85 metres (280 ft) up – did not deter pilgrims then and likewise doesn't deter visitors now. The history of this well-preserved church is fascinating and the views are simply stunning.

Photo:
Image: Tom Maisey
A volcanic plug is created when magma hardens within the vent of an active volcano. Usually, the plug is thrown out in the eruption that follows the extreme pressure build-up the plug causes. Sometimes, a plug is preserved and while erosion removes the surrounding rock, the erosion-resistant plug remains and forms a distinctive landform.
Plug and play - the church at night:
Photo:
Image: pe_ha45
The volcanic landscape in the Auvergne in southern France produced just such a volcanic plug in the city of Le Puy. Because of its distinct shape and prominent location, the rock “needle” (aiguilhe in French) has been a special and sacred place since it was first spotted by humans. In prehistoric times, a dolmen was built on top of the rock, a single-chamber tomb made of three upright stones and a large, flat, horizontal one on top.
The Romans dedicated the rock to Mercury, the messenger god with the winged shoes. When the area was Christianised, the rock needle was consecrated to the archangel Saint Michael (Saint Michel). The chapel of Saint Michel was built by Bishop Godescalc and the deacon Trianus in 962 to celebrate the return of Saint James from the pilgrimage. It was a simple square sanctuary with two small apses and frescoes, all still visible today.
The cave-like interior of the church; no dogs, no flash, no talking, no mobiles allowed:
Photo:
Image: Panoramas
Le Puy was the starting point for one of the main roads to Santiago de Compostela, the popular pilgrimage destination after Rome and Jerusalem, dedicated to Saint James. Many pilgrims started their journey with a visit to Saint Michel and the little chapel on top of the rock became quite famous, even in the 10th century.
In the 12th century, the chapel was considerably enlarged – no doubt to accommodate the growing number of visitors. The result is what we see today, though the prominent bell tower was destroyed in 1275 and not rebuilt until the 19th century.
Made it! Atop the stairs and in front of the 12th-century portal:
Photo:
Image: Panoramas
The portal’s multicoloured stonework points to Islamic influences:
Photo:
Image: Giulio Nepi
In 1955, workers restoring parts of the church got quite a shock when they found sacred artifacts under the alter that had been there since the church was built, among them an 11th-century wooden crucifix and a metal Byzantine cross. It is said that in 1429, Isabelle Romée, Joan of Arc’s mother, came to the chapel to pray.
Saint Michel d’Aiguilhe, towering over Le Puy:
Photo:
Image: Alexander Hoernigk
If you look at the above image as a thumbnail, you’ll see that the rock seems to form a smiley face.
What makes Chapel Saint Michel d’Aiguilhe so special is the harmony with which rock and chapel merge, creating a sacred site extraordinaire.
Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4

The Finger Lakes

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 3 Feb 2012 04:12:00 -0800

Photo:
Image: Eflon
What’s not to love about the Finger Lakes, a series of 11 glacial lakes oriented like the fingers on a pair of hands? There’s fishing, boating, camping, biking, hiking, ballooning and not to forget the many scenic wineries. We’ve found some lake reflections that make already beautiful scenery even more stunning.
Perfect mirror at Honeoye Lake:

Photo:
Image: Jules Zysman
The Finger Lakes originated as a series of northward-flowing rivers and were formed over the last two million years by glacial carvings of old stream valleys. The longest ones, Lake Seneca and Lake Cayuga, are among the deepest in North America and go below sea level, to 618 feet (188 m) and 435 feet (133 m), respectively.
View to the bottom of the sky at Canandeigua Lake:
Photo:
Image: Lauren Mackson
One wouldn’t necessarily connect New York State, known for its harsh winters, with wine production. But the Finger Lakes are an ideal local for wineries because of their mild climate, even in winter when the lake effect causes warmer lake water to reduce the chill for surrounding areas. This residual summer warmth protects the grapes from spring frost and early frost before the harvest. A similar phenomenon can be observed in Long Island, also a surprising location for wineries, as it profits from the ocean effect.
The Glenora outlet at Seneca Lake:
Photo:
Image: Eflon
Burkett Mills behind the Main Bridge in Penn Yan:
Photo:
Image: vincenzooli
The individual lakes of the Finger Lakes are named after Native American tribes, most of them belonging to the Iroquois. Here are the lakes from west to east and their meanings:
1. Conesus – “Always Beautiful”
2. Hemlock – the only lake not named by the Native Americans
3. Canadice – “Long Lake”
4. Honeoye – “Finger Lying”, the shallowest of the lakes
5. Canandaigua – “Chosen Spot”
6. Keuka – “Canoe Landing”, the only lake that forks
Sunset at Keuka Lake:
Photo:
Image: Mary Witzig
And a beautiful Keuka Lake morning:
Photo:
Image: Mary Witzig
7. Seneca – “Place of the Stone”
8. Cayuga – “Boat Landing”, the longest of the lakes
9. Owasco – “Floating Bridge”
10. Skaneateles – “Long Lake”, the third deepest at 315 feet
11. Otisco – “Waters Dried Away”
The breathtakingly beautiful shore of Otisco Lake:
Photo:
Image: Matt Champlin
Onondaga (“People of the Hills”) is the unofficial 12th Finger Lake and Oneida Lake, technically not part of the Finger Lakes, is often referred to as the thumb.

Kayaking on Conesus Lake in the fall:
Photo:
Image: Matt Champlin
Below is an image of the Finger Lakes taken from the International Space Station. One can clearly make out how the snow cover cannot persist along the largest lakes, Cayuga and Seneca, because their shorelines are slightly warmer due to lake temperatures being higher than air or land temperatures.
The Finger Lakes as seen from Space:
Photo:
Image: NASA
For those inspired to make a trip, a great way to experience much of the Finger Lakes’ wildlife and natural beauty is to stay at a campground in one of the many state parks. Hiking trails start in front of your tent and lead you to the region’s many gorges and waterfalls.
Emerson Park at Owasco Lake:
Photo:
Image: Lida Rose
Sources: 1, 2, 3

Cappadocia As Seen From Above

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 3 Feb 2012 02:43:00 -0800

Photo:
Image via tripadvisor
Cappadocia is Turkey's land of milk and honey – a magical place where fruits, vegetables and probably candy grow in abundance, all within a fairy tale landscape of pillars, minarets and houses hewn into rock amid breathtaking views. The largest part of the ancient region is now part of Turkey’s Nevsehir province in central Anatolia but has had a bit of a turbulent history under many rulers.
Cappadocia looks and sounds like an Italian dessert, don’t you think?

Photo:
Image: Desmond Kavanagh
Well, this should convince you – Cappadocia in winter:
Photo:
Image: Izzet Keribar
Hot air ballooning is very popular in Cappadocia because it is probably the best way to view the amazing landscape in a leisurely and environmentally friendly fashion. No wonder up to 45 balloons take hundreds of tourists every day – a business that started 20 years ago.
Almost touched the tip of the prehistoric volcanic rock house:
Photo:
Image: Daniel Garcia Peris
And from a bit further away, a true fairy tale landscape:
Photo:
Image via urbanchristiannews
Turkey's very own white cliffs of Dover:
Photo:
Image: Frank & Roz Reinhard
Cappadocia’s distinct landscape was formed by volcanic eruptions. The volcanic tuff left behind was shaped by the wind and the Kizilirmak river over tens of thousands of years to produce the tableland with the stunning chimney rocks of today.
Looks like the old Kizilirmak river bed:
Photo:
Image: mekiaris
The fairy chimneys, also called hoodoos, tent rocks or earth pyramids, are tall, thin spires of rock found in hot, dry areas. They are composed of soft, sedimentary rock below and a piece of harder stone on top that erodes more slowly and protects the chimney from the elements.
Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys seen from the air:
Photo:
Image via mehmetguide
What is amazing is how the architecture was integrated harmoniously into the landscape from the first cave dwellings hewn into the rock, to the area's incredible rock-cut temples, and even modern towns.
There’s actually a whole town hiding in this rugged landscape, can you spot it?
Photo:
Image: 300td.org
A rock-cut temple in the Ihlara valley:
Photo:
Image: Karsten Dörre
In the town of Ortahisar, everything revolves around rocks:
Photo:
Image: suncodel
The earliest record of the name Cappadocia stems from inscriptions of two Persian kings in the late 6th century BCE and the Cappadocians are also mentioned in the New Testament. Apart from brief quasi-independent periods, Cappadocia has seen its fare share of foreign influence.
After Persian rule until the 4th century BCE, Alexander the Great tried to rule Cappadocia and after him, the Romans and the Armenians in turn fought over it. Later it became a region of the Byzantine Empire (the continuation of the Roman Empire in the Middle Ages) until it firmly came under Turkish rule by the 12th century. In Turkish, the region’s name is Kapadokya but is still referred to by its old name because of the historical and cultural significance.
Here’s a fascinating 15th–century map with Cappadocia in the north east:
Photo:
Image: Electionworld
The underground cities of Cappadocia are quite elaborate as they were used as hiding places by early Christians before Christianity became an established religion. Originally remnants of the first human settlements in prehistoric periods, early Christian settlers developed them further and constructed elaborate networks of narrow tunnels and chambers that even had ventilation and water wells. They were used for daily living, working, meeting and praying. The largest underground city complex is the one in Derinkuyu – it has eight floors and extends 85 m below ground.
Here some impressions from the Derinkuyu underground:
Photo:
Image via bldgblog
Well, regardless of what one likes best about Cappadocia – the landscape that inspires daydreaming, the environmentally friendly construction, the hot air balloon rides or the vastness of the volcanic landscape – all are excellent reasons to make a trip. And we're sure you'll find it reassuring to know that the Goreme National Park and the rock sites of Cappadocia have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

10 Best Places to Spend Autumn

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 2 Feb 2012 06:25:00 -0800

Autumn is that time of the year when you realize that the holiday’s over and that it’s time to get down to some serious work. No more sandy beaches, tropical islands or other sunny locations. However, the fact that the weather has got colder and that you can practically smell the winter doesn’t mean that travelling is over.

In fact, autumn offers great new opportunities at smaller prices as not every tourist knows where to go and what it is that can be done in this season. So let’s begin an autumnal journey! Here are some of the best places in the world where you will enjoying spending your autumn. I may have missed out some so please feel free to comment.

GERMANY

There is still a whole lot to do if you come later in this country even if the weather might play some tricks on you. If you’re lucky enough you might enjoy sunny days and a blue sky and also the harvesting time, which is something not to be missed.

CHINA

You may have never thought about visiting China in the autumn, but this is also a perspective definitely worth taking into consideration. The view is absolutely breathtaking, so it will be easy to understand why it has inspired so many painters.

FRANCE

France is another country filled with autumn attractions really worth taking advantage of. For the romantic in you and enjoying the colors of the leaves and watching them fall is just the right thing to do.

USA, YELLOWSTONE

Even though this country has definitely a lot to offer in any season, this particular location is one that could keep one busy for an entire autumn. The park offers some very good accommodation, but you will not spend a lot of time here as the site practically invites you to go out.

Canada

See some of the highest tides in the world and enjoy the vivacious reds and deep pumpkin oranges. Tree variety and colors are similar to New England’s, yet crowds are minimal.

Scotland

Where better to escape for an autumn break or day out than Perth shire where the seasonal spectacle of changing autumn colors has captivated visitors for many years.

England,Surrey

More than 1,000 tree and shrub species established on a hillside overlooking lakes. The gold, silver and scarlet of turning maples, and the yellow of lime leaves, stand out boldly against the background of evergreens. Photographers find great reward here.

Italy

This season is an excellent time to visit Italy. As is the case with many destinations in the Northern Hemisphere, when the worst of the summer heat has faded it makes way for some of the loveliest weather you could experience all year long.

The Tatras Mountains,Poland

Tallest crop in the Carpathian range, the Tatras mark the Polish – Slovakian border. Alpine characteristics such as high altitude meadows, steep rocky cliffs and sparkling, icy glacial lakes add to the appeal of the towering peaks to hikers, climbers and winter sports enthusiasts.

Central Park, NY

Now this is MY favorite. You can’t beat an autumn stroll along the pathways, lakesides and bridges of Central Park, New York as the leaves turn yellow in bright sunlight.
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10 Most Beautiful Luxury Islands

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 2 Feb 2012 06:18:00 -0800

Don’t know where to spend your dream vacation? Do you want to experience the luxury on one of the most beautiful islands on Earth? Do you want to feel the tropical breeze underneath palm trees as turquoise water splashes you…?

So here I have compiled some of the most beautiful luxury islands. I hope you will like it.

Cocoa Island, Maldives

If the name itself doesn’t light up your imagination, just think of long walks with silky white sand under your feet, beautiful lagoons, five star resorts like the ones you’ve seen in those fancy brochures, exotic local specialties… There are 33 villas in this magnificent resort

Palm island, Saint Vincent

Once you get there, you’ll never want to leave this tropical paradise. It is quite small but don’t let the size fool you. There are 40 guest rooms which couldn’t be maintained better.

Necker Island, British Virgin Islands

It was all tropical forest and beautiful sand beaches until the owner added the luxury. If you have an extra to spear, for $47.000 a day you can have the time of your life in this paradise.

Musha Cay, Exuma cays

It is made of 4 private islands, southeast of Nassau in the Bahamas. This one is for diving addicts – the underwater sights you see here, you won’t be able to forget them even if you try.

Barbados, Caribbean

Paradise called Barbados was discovered by tourists years ago but still hasn’t lost a bit of its charme or exclusiveness. Tons of celebrities still visit it every January. The island itself is flat which means luxury hotels great restaurants are aplenty along its breathtaking, white-sand coastline.

Cousine Island, Seychelles

As one of 115 islands of the Seychelles, this breathtaking island is part nature reserve and a part luxury resort. You can get there by helicopter only.

Mustique, West Indies

Located in the southern Caribbean, this private island offers you true tropical paradise. The company owning it puts nature on the pedestal by protecting it very much in each way. They allow only selected people (mostly royalty and celebrities) to come and enjoy here.

Bermuda, North Atlantic Ocean

Don’t let the mysterious Bermuda triangle keep you off this paradise – once you reach the shore, you’ll know it’s worth the sailing to get there! The best place to stay at is the Fairmont Southampton. You can spend your day at hotel’s private beach club or just take advantage of numerous field trips offered!

Mnemba Island, Indian Ocean

Although just minutes from the coast, it is a world of its own! Rent one of the 10 exclusive lodges and enjoy beautiful sunset while lying on fabulous white sand. Go scuba-diving and swim with giant turtles and tropical fish while the coral reefs surrounding the island protect you.

Turtle Island, Fiji

Once you get there, you’ll see that Fiji is nothing as seen on brochures. It is far more beautiful! Turtle island itself has more than half a million trees planted by its owner, numerous private beaches, luxurious (and Eco friendly!) villas… Get on that plane and get ready for the lifetime experience!

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10 Best Skiing Destinations in the World

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 1 Feb 2012 01:52:00 -0800

Summer still isn’t over but for those of you who can’t wait to go skiing, here are some destinations you should consider visiting. You won’t regret visiting any of them. I have included most of them from United States and Canada. So if you know any other, do share it in our comment section and make our list more accurate.

So here are some of the best skiing destinations in the world. I hope you will like it.

Telluride Ski Resort, Colorado

This one is also a snowboarding paradise. It has 84 snowboard trails plus the biggest snowboard park in the region. If you get tired of skiing or snowboarding, Telluride offers you variety of night clubs.

Lake Louise, Canada

Lake Louise is great in April because of numerous events happening over there at that time. But you will have a great holiday in winter as well as Lake Louise is one of Canada’s most beautiful resorts.

Red Mountain Resort, Canada

If you like the snow but you don’t fancy skiing or snowboarding, the resort offers some other activities like snowmobiling or dog sledding. However, if you do like to ski and snowboard, this resort won’t disappoint you as it has great tracks for both.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Wyoming

I would recommend this one for more advanced skiers because half of 110 runs are aimed at that group. But if you like the challenge, why not give it a try?

Alta Ski Area, Utah

This one isn’t snowboarding paradise but is excellent for skiing. Plus the place is famous for it’s numerous barbecue parties so if you are a fan of both, you will have a blast!

Lake Tahoe, Nevada/California

It features more than 500 runs for snowboarders and skiers of all abilities. Besides that, it has a great shopping zone and numerous great dining places. If you are staying longer, I suggest you visit Reno which is nearby.

Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort, Oregon

I would recommend this one for spring skiing vacation, because the wind can get nasty during the winter. The night life isn’t something either. But be assured that there are plenty of restaurants instead.

Alyeska Resort, Alaska

This is a fantastic skiing resort. Great numerous runs for beginners as well advanced skiers. One more thing worth mentioning is that it is not crowded and you won’t have to stand in lines anywhere.

Breckenridge Ski Resort, Colorado

You could be unsatisfied with the crowd as the place if quite popular but great runs will make you forget it. You can also enjoy great night life, shopping, fine dining and much more.

Green Spot, Pakistan

This is my personal favorite. It is a small skiing resort near Nathia Gali which is one of the most beautiful valleys of Northern Areas of Pakistan.
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