the worlds most beautiful destinations for holiday

Monaco

2010-05-08T23:05:00.000-07:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Portugal

2010-03-19T23:15:00.000-07:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

greek islands vacation

2010-02-27T23:45:00.000-08:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

BELIZE

2010-02-20T02:08:00.001-08:00

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

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

snowboarding destinations

2010-02-12T23:37:00.000-08:00

Whistler, Canada

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

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

2010-02-05T23:19:00.000-08:00

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

New7Wonders of Nature Finalists

2010-02-03T09:58:00.001-08:00

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

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

New7Wonders of Nature Finalists

2010-02-01T08:21:00.000-08:00

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

The New7Wonders of the Nature Reserve List

2010-01-31T00:37:00.000-08:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

New7Wonders of Nature

2010-01-31T00:17:00.000-08:00

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

Amazon adventure

2010-01-29T23:26:00.000-08:00

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

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

Nepal

2010-01-25T06:57:00.000-08:00

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

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

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

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

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

KENYA

2010-01-22T23:54:00.001-08:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHILIPPINES

2010-01-20T00:45:00.000-08:00

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

Santorini,Greece

2010-01-19T07:15:00.001-08:00

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

Petra, Jordan

2010-01-18T07:52:00.001-08:00

Petra is the treasure of ancient world, hidden behind an almost impenetrable barrier of rugged mountains, boasting incomparable scenes that make it the most majestic and imposing ancient site still-standing nowadays.. It has been said "perhaps there is nothing in the world that resembles it", actually, for sure, there is nothing in the world that resembles it. The rock-carved rose-red city of Petra is full of mysterious charm, it was "designed to strike wonder into all who entered it"
Petra is considered the most famous and gorgeous site in Jordan located about 262 km south of Amman and 133 km north of Aqaba. It is the legacy of the Nabataeans, an industrious Arab people who settled in southern Jordan more than 2000 years ago. Admired then for its refined culture, massive architecture and ingenious complex of dams and water channels, Petra is now a UNESCO world heritage site and one of The New 7 Wonders of the World that enchants visitors from all corners of the globe.
The approach through a kilometer long, cool, and gloom chasm (or Siq) a long narrow gorge whose steeply rising sides all but obliterate the sun, provides a dramatic contrast with the magic to come. Suddenly the gorge opens into a natural square dominated by Petra's most famous monument, The Treasury (El-Khazneh), whose intricately carved facade glows in the dazzling sun.
More facades beckon the visitor on until the ancient city gradually unfolds, one monument leading to the next for kilometer after kilometer. The sheer size of the city and the quality of beautifully carved facades is staggering and leads one to reflect on the creativity and industry of the Nabataeans who made Petra their capital.
Petra is always breathtaking, and never to be forgotten. It flourished for over 400 years around the time of Rome and Christ (pbuh), until it was occupied by the Roman legions of the Emperor Trajan in 106 AD.
The Petra basin boasts over 800 individual monuments, including buildings, tombs, baths, funerary halls, temples, arched gateways, and colonnaded streets, that were mostly carved from the kaleidoscopic sandstone by the technical and artistic genius of its inhabitants.
Petra sights are at their best in early morning and late afternoon, when the sun warms the multicolored stones, you can view the majesty of Petra as it was seen first when discovered in 1812 after being lost by the 16th century for almost 300 years!

Lake Como - Italy

2010-01-16T23:34:00.000-08:00

Lake Como, Lago di Como in Italian, is Italy's most popular lake and also its deepest. Lake Como is shaped like an inverted Y giving it a long perimeter. The lake is surrounded by beautiful villas and resort villages as well as hiking paths and it's popular for boat trips and water activities.
Lake Como, a popular destination since Roman times, is a top romantic travel destination and a great spot for photography
Lake Como is a popular weekend destination for people from Milan so the weekdays may be less crowded. July and August are the most crowded months. Spring and Fall are the best times to visit as it is less crowded and the weather is usually pleasant. During the winter, some services may be closed, but you can ski in the mountains nearby.
Lake Como Attractions:
· Bellagio, known as the pearl of the lake, is in a beautiful setting where the three branches of Lake Como come together. It's easy to get to by ferry or bus from other cities on the lake. Read more in our Bellagio Travel Guide.
· The walled town of Como has a good historic center and lively squares with nice cafes. There are several walking paths near town. Como makes a good base if you're traveling by train. From Como you can take the funicular to the village of Brunate, 720m above Como, for hiking trails and beautiful views of the lake and the Alps.
· Villa d'Este, in the village of Cernobbio on the west coast, is the most famous of Lake Como's villas. The villa is now a luxury hotel on a wooded peninsula. Each of its 161 rooms is unique.
· Menaggio, against the mountains, is a lively resort with a lakeside promenade. Menaggio is popular with outdoor enthusiasts for walking or hiking, swimming, windsurfing, and rock climbing.
· Villa Carlotta, south of Menaggio, has beautiful gardens. You can tour the inside with its original 18th century furniture and art works.
· Villa del Balbianello, in the village of Lenno, is also worth a visit and has some unusual treasures. The villa was used as a set for one of the Star Wars movies.
· The fishing village of Varenna has picturesque narrow alleyways and streets below a castle and a lakeside walking path.
· Outdoor Activities - Biking, mountain biking, hiking, boating, paragliding and windsurfing. In the winter, you can ski in the nearby mountains.
· Cruises - there are some interesting cruises around the lake on commercial boats, mainly on weekends in the summer season.
· Camping - there are a number of campsites around the lake.

ROMANCE IS GUARANTEED

2010-01-16T00:22:00.000-08:00

VENICE, VENETO, ITALY
With its stunning architecture and mysterious passageways, Venice is the perfect hideaway for lovers. Glide down one of its many canals in a gondola, dine by candlelight on northern Italian dishes, and take a moonlit stroll through Piazza San Marco. Romance is guaranteed.
enice is one of the most important tourist destinations in the world, due to the city being one of the world's greatest and most beautiful cities of art[ The city has an average of 50,000 tourists a day (2007 estimate). In 2006, it was the world's 28th most internationally visited city, with 2.927 million international arrivals that year.
Tourism has been a major sector of Venetian industry since the 18th century, when it was a major centre for the grand tour, due to its beautiful cityscape, uniqueness and rich musical and artistic cultural heritage. In the 19th century, it became a fashionable centre for the rich and famous, often staying or dining at luxury establishments such as the Danieli Hotel and the Caffè Florian. It continued being a fashionable city in vogue right into the early 20th centuryIn the 1980s the Carnival of Venice was revived and the city has become a major centre of international conferences and festivals, such as the prestigious Venice Biennale and the Venice Film Festival, which attract visitors from all over the world for their theatrical, cultural, cinematic, artistic and musical productions
Today there are numerous attractions in Venice, such as St Mark's Basilica, the Grand Canal, and the Piazza San Marco, to name a few. The Lido di Venezia is also a popular international luxury destination, attracting thousands of actors, critics, celebrities and mainly people in the cinematic industry.
However, Venice's popularity as a major worldwide tourist destination has caused several problems, including the fact that the city can be very overcrowded at some points of the year. It is regarded by some as a tourist trap, and by others as a 'living museum'.The competition for foreigners to buy homes in Venice has made prices rise so highly, that numerous inhabitants are forced to move to more affordable areas of Veneto and Italy, most notably Mestre.

ROMANCE IS GUARANTEED

2010-01-16T00:20:00.000-08:00

PARIS, FRANCE
From its picturesque bridges to its outdoor cafes, no other city says romance like Paris. Stroll along the river Seine, picnic amid the flowers of the 61-acre Luxembourg Garden or toast the sunset from atop Montmartre as the City of Light sparkles below. Paris - c'est magnifique
Paris, the capital of France, is located in northern France on both banks of the Seine River, 145 km (90 mi) from the river's mouth on the English Channel. A total of 2,135,300 (2002) inhabitants live in Paris proper, and almost 11 million persons (1999) live in greater Paris (the Ile-de-France region), which is one of Europe's largest metropolitan areas. A city of world importance and the business, historic, intellectual, diplomatic, religious, educational, artistic, and tourist center of France, Paris owes its prosperity in large part to its favorable position on the Seine, which has been a major commercial artery since the Roman period.
See the ancient artifacts in the Louvre Museum as well as the Venus de Milo and the Mona Lisa. The Eiffel tower as also a destination in Paris, France. You can acturally take an elevator both day and night to get near the top of the tower. Paris is full of great culture and history.

MEXICO

2010-01-15T10:56:00.000-08:00

Mexico has been a vibrant and multifaceted tourist destination for many years, a Latin America leader, loaded with landscapes of every description from bleak deserts to monstrous mountains and superb beaches ranging from activity-stuffed resort areas to stretches of sand devoid of packaged life forms. Then there are the chart-topping ancient pyramid sites, strange and colourful festivals, varied wildlife, terrific weather [if you get your timing right], excellent public transport systems, superb undersea life on one coast and great surfing on the other, good food and booze, pleasant colonial towns and all at a reasonable prices. Mexico is what you make of it. Its multi-billion-dollar tourism industry is adept at satisfying those who like their travel easy. But adventure is what you’ll undoubtedly have if you take a just a few steps off the pre-packaged path. Activity-based tourism, community tourism and genuine ecotourism – the type that actually helps conserve local environments – are developing fast in rural areas. The opportunities for getting out to Mexico’s spectacular wild places and interacting with local communities are greater than ever – from world-class canyoneering near Monterrey or cooking lessons in the Veracruz countryside to hiking the Oaxaca cloud forests and snorkeling the coral reefs of the Yucatán.
Planning your first trip to Mexico? Be ready for more crowds, noise, bustle and poverty than you're accustomed to, especially if it's your first trip outside the developed world. But don't worry – most Mexicans will be only too happy to help you feel at home in their country. Invest a little time before your trip in learning even just a few phrases of Spanish – every word you know will make your trip that little bit easier and more enjoyable.
Beach destinations :
The Mexican Riviera hosts destinations including Los Cabos, Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo, Ixtapa, Acapulco and Huatulco. Each of these cities has a flavor distinct and different from each other

INDIA

2010-01-14T01:39:00.000-08:00

India is one of the most preferred destinations that offer you diversity of attractions and charm. Great adventure trips are idle on the Himalayan regions in north India, many regions of Garhwal and Kumaon in Uttaranchal and Himachal Pradesh offers ample scope for winter sports like a thrilling expeditions of mountaineering, heli-skiing, snow skiing, that interest you more. Some of the best sports destinations of the world like Manali in Himachal, Garhwal Region in Uttar Pradesh and Ladakh in Jammu / Kashmir takes you to the wonderland where adventure enthusiast can indulge in various adventure sports activities.

It is India's vast geographical diversity that stock a magnificent scope for the adventure lovers besides the facility is available in quite a low price as compare to other western countries. Those who want to experience the wild and see mother- nature in its natural form and also to know the mystical existence of life and nature then travel to this vast land full of surprises.

The intrigue of historical monuments and holy temples, the mountains and its slopes with its dense tropical forests prove rich diversity of fauna and flora and of course the 3000 km stretched coastline promises the most exciting of sports and adventure activities in India. The best part is that these facilities exist all year round at different places in quite a reasonable price.
Bamboozling. There’s simply no other word that convincingly captures the enigma that is India. With its in-your-face diversity, from snow-dusted mountains to sun-washed beaches, tranquil temples to feisty festivals, lantern-lit villages to software-supremo cities, it’s hardly surprising that this country has been dubbed the world’s most multidimensional. Love it or loathe it, and most visitors see-saw between the two, India promises to jostle your entire being, and no matter where you go or what you do, it’s a place you’ll never forget.
Home to more than one billion people, the subcontinent bristles with an eclectic melange of ethnic groups, which translates into an intoxicating cultural cocktail for the traveller. For those seeking spiritual sustenance, India has oodles of sacrosanct sites and stirring philosophical epics, while history buffs will encounter gems from the past almost everywhere – from grand vestiges of the British Raj serenely peering over swarming spice bazaars, to crumbling fortresses looming high above plunging ravines. Meanwhile, aficionados of the great outdoors can paddle in the shimmering waters of one of many balmy beaches, scout for big jungle cats on a blood-pumping wildlife safari, or simply inhale pine-scented air on a meditative forest walk. And then there’s the food! From squidgy South Indian idlis (fermented rice cakes) to zesty north Indian curries, foodies can look forward to savouring a seductive smorgasbord of specialities.
Once you touch down on subcontinental soil, you’ll quickly discover that cricket – India’s sporting obsession – is one of the most spirited topics of conversation, along with the latest shenanigans in the razzle-dazzle world of Bollywood. However, it is politics – whether at the national, state or village level – that consistently dominates news headlines, with middle- and upper-class India also keenly keeping its finger on the pulse of international events. On the home front, economic matters feature high on the national political agenda. With one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, India has certainly made giant strides over the past decade. However, despite averaging an annual growth rate of around 9% in recent years, vast sections of the country’s billion-plus population have seen little benefit from the economic boom. Indeed, the government’s ongoing challenge is to spread both the burden and bounty of India’s fiscal prosperity. Not an easy task given that the gap between the haves and the have-nots is far from shrinking, and poverty is set to spiral upwards if India’s population rate continues to gallop beyond that of its economic growth

Machu Picchu, Peru

2010-01-12T12:27:00.000-08:00

In the ancient language of the Incas, Machu Picchu means "old peak," which only scratches the surface of Peru's top tourist draw. High in the cloud forest, the ruins of this former center of worship and royal retreat sprawl across the landscape, an awesome display of staircases, carved tombs and sacred temples. Natural beauty abounds in the tropical forest setting in the eastern Andes. Access to the "Lost City" is available via train from Cuzco or a multi-day hiking trail if you're feeling adventurous.
The ruins of Machu Picchu, rediscovered in 1911 by Yale archaeologist Hiram Bingham, are one of the most beautiful and enigmatic ancient sites in the world. While the Inca people certainly used the Andean mountain top (9060 feet elevation), erecting many hundreds of stone structures from the early 1400's, legends and myths indicate that Machu Picchu (meaning 'Old Peak' in the Quechua language) was revered as a sacred place from a far earlier time. Whatever its origins, the Inca turned the site into a small (5 square miles) but extraordinary city. Invisible from below and completely self-contained, surrounded by agricultural terraces sufficient to feed the population, and watered by natural springs, Machu Picchu seems to have been utilized by the Inca as a secret ceremonial city. Two thousand feet above the rumbling Urubamba river, the cloud shrouded ruins have palaces, baths, temples, storage rooms and some 150 houses, all in a remarkable state of preservation. These structures, carved from the gray granite of the mountain top are wonders of both architectural and aesthetic genius. Many of the building blocks weigh 50 tons or more yet are so precisely sculpted and fitted together with such exactitude that the mortarless joints will not permit the insertion of even a thin knife blade. Little is known of the social or religious use of the site during Inca times. The skeletal remains of ten females to one male had led to the casual assumption that the site may have been a sanctuary for the training of priestesses and /or brides for the Inca nobility. However, subsequent osteological examination of the bones revealed an equal number of male bones, thereby indicating that Machu Picchu was not exclusively a temple or dwelling place of women.
One of Machu Picchu's primary functions was that of astronomical observatory. The Intihuatana stone (meaning 'Hitching Post of the Sun') has been shown to be a precise indicator of the date of the two equinoxes and other significant celestial periods. The Intihuatana (also called the Saywa or Sukhanka stone) is designed to hitch the sun at the two equinoxes, not at the solstice (as is stated in some tourist literature and new-age books). At midday on March 21st and September 21st, the sun stands almost directly above the pillar, creating no shadow at all. At this precise moment the sun "sits with all his might upon the pillar" and is for a moment "tied" to the rock. At these periods, the Incas held ceremonies at the stone in which they "tied the sun" to halt its northward movement in the sky. There is also an Intihuatana alignment with the December solstice (the summer solstice of the southern hemisphere), when at sunset the sun sinks behind Pumasillo (the Puma's claw), the most sacred mountain of the western Vilcabamba range, but the shrine itself is primarily equinoctial.
Shamanic legends say that when sensitive persons touch their foreheads to the stone, the Intihuatana opens one's vision to the spirit world Intihuatana stones were the supremely sacred objects of the Inca people and were systematically searched for and destroyed by the Spaniards. When the Intihuatana stone was broken at an Inca shrine, the Inca believed that the deities of the place died or departed. The Spaniards never found Machu Picchu, even though they suspected its existence, thus the Intihuatana stone and its resident spirits remain in their original position. The mountain top sanctuary fell into disuse and was abandoned some forty years after the Spanish took Cuzco in 1533. Supply lines linking the many Inca social centers were disrupted and the great empire came to an end. The photograph shows the ruins of Machu Picchu in the foreground with the sacred peak of Wayna Picchu towering behind. Partway down the northern side of Wayna Picchu is the so-called "Temple of the Moon" inside a cavern. As with the ruins of Machu Picchu, there is no archaeological or iconographical evidence to substantiate the 'new-age' assumption that this cave was a goddess site

SCUBA DIVING SPORTS - MALDIVES SCUBA DIVING

2010-01-12T00:48:00.000-08:00

MALDIVES SCUBA DIVING
Maldives having an ideal water temperature of thiry one degrees of clear tranqulent water offers various dive sites spread through out 868km ( 539 miles) across the Indian Ocean Maldives has thousands of reefs, some in shallow waters of enclosed lagoons to deep sea ridges and ocean shelves. There are many dive centers and dive clubs operating all across the Maldives offering various packages.
Some of the most interesting dives consists of diving to shark site and feeding them by your hand. If you prefer a less adrenaline feel try taking a submarine dive and still get the great upclose views of a professional diver.
The Maldives are located in the Indian Ocean and stretch 900 kilometres from north to south. They are made up of over 1200 tiny, low-lying coral islands surrounded by white sand in 26 atolls. The islands are some distance from land, which means there is an abundance of marine life. Night dives are a must as the reefs become highly active, with predators on the prowl. The Maldives are particularly renowned for the large pelagics that visit the area, particularly sharks and rays. Reefs form channels and lagoons, but don’t expect many wreck dives as these are minimal and not very spectacular.
The Maldives has a wet season is between May and August, which reduces visibility and may restrict the number of accessible dive sites. The hottest air temperatures are from April to June. December to March has the lowest humidity and the clearest water, so may be a good time of year to visit. However, a plankton bloom in early May causes lower visibility, but attracts whale sharks and manta rays.
Divers generally visit the Maldives for the life they get the opportunity to see as well as for the rapid drifts that dominate the area. The recent coral bleaching caused by the 1996 - 1998 El Nino rise in water temperature has not altered the quality of the diving here. The coral is recovering quickly and the life on the reefs is prolific and more than enough to keep you occupied on a dive. It even appears that the amount of fish life has even increased since the bleaching. Always keep an eye out into the blue, away from the reef into the thermoclines below you - you never know what action you may drift pass! All boat dives are drift dives; shore dives are also possible if you don’t want to do two boat dives a day.
Diving may be in shallow reef gardens filled with fish, or round thilas (submerged reefs) in strong currents. The channels between reefs also make good drift dives. On drifts you will need an SMB and to pay attention to your depth. There are a few wrecks to break up the reef diving, although these are dived more for the fish life found on them rather than for the wrecks themselves. All divers are required to have a computer, these are available to hire from dive Centers. You may also like to take a reef hook for the drifts. There are hyperbaric chambers are located on Bandos (North Male) and Kurumathi (Rasdhoo). There is rarely any nitrox diving available.
If you are going to the Maldives purely to dive, a liveaboard may be the way forward. They give you access to a wider range of sites and get you to best sites early to see maximum amounts fish life. You will be required to have at least twenty logged dives to dive from a liveaboard. They are more expensive than day diving, but don’t forget that prices are all inclusive. Liveaboard itineraries vary dependent on season and weather conditions. If you want to thoroughly explore one area, day diving may be a better option, especially if you want to do other things apart from diving. There is always the possibility of getting the best of both worlds if you have a two-week holiday by spending one week on a liveaboard and one week onshore.
The lifestyle on the islands is quiet, slow-pace and simple, and there is not much to do on the surface other than relax on the beach when you are not diving, except for the possibility of indulging in other water sports such as windsurfing or sailing. Accommodation is generally basic and in the form of bungalows located close to the waters edge. A short swim from the beach will get you onto the fringing reefs. However, there are over one hundred resorts to choose from on the islands so you should be able to tailor your holiday to suit your requirements whether you are after something luxurious or something simpler. Food is to western standards as it is mostly imported. Travel times to the Maldives may make a holiday worth a two-week trip. Getting between the islands is possible either by boat or by seaplane. The best currency to take with you is US dollars.
Water temperature: 24°C (75°F) in February and July to 27°C (81°F) in April, May and September
Suit: 5mm shortie
Visibility: 15 - 40 metres (50 - 130 feet)
Type of diving: Reef and drift diving, very few wrecks
Marine life: Hammerheads, grey reef sharks, white tip reef sharks, eagle rays, manta rays, turtles, frogfish, triggerfish, surgeonfish, jacks, trevallies, snappers, napoleon wrasse, barracudas... the list is almost endless!
When to go: June to October and December to March
How to get there: The airport on the Maldives is located on Male, transfers from here are usually by Seaplane

FOR WINTER SPORTS ENTHUSIASTS - THE BEST WINTER DESTINATIONS IN THE EUROPE

2010-01-11T02:53:00.000-08:00

Interlaken, Bernese Oberland, Swiss Alps, Switzerland
A year-round outdoor sports destination, in winter Interlaken is the gateway to the Jungfrau region, with nearly 150 miles of ski tracks. Kleine Scheidegg-Männlichen is one of the world's most gorgeous ski settings, Grindelwald-First is more for the boarders and Mürren-Schilthorn offers amazing panoramic views.
Zermatt, Valais, Swiss Alps, Switzerland
Known for the famous mountain Matterhorn, Zermatt offers some of the best skiing in the Swiss Alps. The area is fantastic for downhill skiing, but those who do not ski can try their hand at mountain-climbing or hiking, or just enjoy the gorgeous mountain views from mile-high cable cars.
Zell am See, Austrian Alps, Austria
The picturesque lakeside town of Zell am See offers about 80 miles of local slopes, with beginner, intermediate and advanced runs all well represented. One hundred and twenty-five miles of cross-country trails offer gorgeous panoramic views. The neighboring town of Kaprun is famed for its glacier skiing.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Bavarian Alps, Bavaria, Germany
South of town on the Austrian border lies Germany's highest mountain, Zugspitze, rising nearly 10,000 feet and offering gorgeous glacier-top skiing. With almost 75 miles of downhill runs of all difficulty levels, Zugspitze also has 68 miles of cross-country trails, a terrain park and Germany's first superpipe.
St. Moritz, Engadin St. Moritz, Grisons, Swiss Alps, Switzerland
Every winter, St. Moritz attracts glamorous stars and famous politicians for a reason--its fantastic skiing. With several ski schools and an estimated 700 ski instructors in surrounding upper Engadine, it is a beautiful place for beginners to start, but St. Moritz also has plenty of offerings for more experienced skiers.
Val d'Isere, Savoie, Rhone-Alpes, France
Home to many ski slopes and schools, including the French National Ski School, Val d'Isere boasts tremendous skiing to complement its lively shopping and nightlife scene. While the schools appeal to beginners, intermediate and advanced skiers will also find more than enough challenging runs to keep them satisfied.
Skiing holidays to Kranjska Gora
Traditional winter package holidays are available with several leading tour operators, and can represent excellent value for money. Alternatively, for greater flexibility, and equally competitive prices, you may prefer to choose a ski hotel, apartment or chalet in Kranjska Gora, from the selection of accommodation in Kranjska Gora, and add this to a low cost ski flight to Ljubljana (for shorter transfers) or Salzburg, to create your ideal Kranjska Gora ski holiday. If you are visiting family or friends, you may not need to book accommodation in Kranjska Gora at all, and may wish to only search for cheap winter flights to Ljubljana or Salzburg.

FOR WINTER SPORTS ENTHUSIASTS - THE BEST WINTER DESTINATIONS IN THE U.S.

2010-01-11T02:50:00.000-08:00

THE BEST WINTER DESTINATIONS IN THE U.S.
Aspen, Colorado
If you are looking for a skiing resort that will test your skill, offer great slopes to practice new maneuvers and will prepare you for the next winter ‘X-Games’, then Aspen is pretty much the place to be. Aspen’s Snowmass sports eight terrain parks, four halfpipes and over 300 marked trails from more than 40 lifts. In short, it is a professional skier’s nirvana! Of course, for the faint of hearts, Aspen has a great nightlife, too, and can really show you a good time even without hitting the slopes as a pro.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
The location of Jackson Hole makes it a great skiing spot as it stands right next to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. The locals here are so good at skiing that even the so-called skiing experts come here and find out what their real skill level is! Skiing is much more than a sport when you hit the slopes at Jackson Hole, with the place being an absolute Mecca for professionals, much like Aspen. Theres plenty of hotel options in Jackson Hole for all types of travelers just take your pick.
Heavenly, California
It might sound a bit ironic for those who do not know that California also has great skiing slopes on one edge of the state. The stunning resort of Heavenly is less than an hour away from the Reno airport, close to the Nevada border at the south end of Lake Tahoe. Apart from all the snow, slopes, and skiing, California keeps up its tradition with big game casinos and jazz stars all packed on either side of these amazing slopes. Even if it’s skiing, in California it comes with entertainment.