The Great Pyramids of Giza

By far the most famous of Egypt’s architectural wonders are the 3 Great Pyramids located at Giza, near Cairo. These monuments are hundreds of feet in height, and have survived the test of time for the last 4500 years. There are over a hundred pyramids of various sizes in Egypt, and more in neighboring Sudan. These monuments serve as tombs for the great pharaohs of ancient Egypt, and stand as testimony to the power and influence of these pharaohs.

When you stand at the bottom of the Great Pyramids, looking up at their magnificence, the feeling is indescribable. You begin to wonder just how the ancient people managed to construct this huge structure with only the help of the simple tools available at that time. And this feeling of awe intensifies when you take the opportunity to descend into the pyramids via the original entrances that were used thousands of years ago. When you touch the walls of the now-empty tombs beneath the pyramids, you will feel as if you were there thousands of years ago when the tombs were freshly carved. (One warning: You might not want to enter the pyramids if you are claustrophobic!)

The Sphinx

Next to the Great Pyramids at Giza is the enigmatic Sphinx. A gigantic statue with the head of a man and the body of a lion, the great Sphinx stares silently at the east, perhaps watching the sunrise, or perhaps protecting the great pyramids from whatever evils that may threaten to destroy them. The Sphinx is just as old as the pyramids, aging over 4500 years (or more, depending on which group of archaeologists you believe).

Almost everyone has heard of the Sphinx with its missing nose, and some might wonder how he actually lost his nose. (Do not believe what you saw in the Disney cartoon Aladdin) Almost everyone has seen many pictures, or perhaps the Discovery channel, showing the Sphinx in various angles. But you have to visit it, to stand there right next to it, to realize why both the Sphinx and the Pyramids are the most famous man-made structures in the world. Just the front paw of the Sphinx is larger than a human being!

The Wonders of the Nile

The architectural wonders of ancient Egypt are not limited to those at Giza. As you travel along the Nile River (incidentally the longest river in the world), you will come across other monuments. Chief of these is the Valley of Kings near Luxor. It is here that many kings from many of the ancient Egyptian dynasties were entombed. Each tomb is unqiue and is a wonder in its own right. Unfortunately, most of the treasure that was entombed with the pharaohs have long been stolen by tomb raiders. Only the well-hidden tomb of Tutankhamun managed to survive more or less intact to this day.

Further south, near the town of Aswan, are the famous temples of Abu Simbel. Constructed during the reign of Ramses II, better known as Ramses the Great, these two temples feature much-larger-than-life statues guarding the entrances. And beautiful hieroglyphs still adorn the walls of the temples.

The few monuments I’ve mentioned are just a small fraction of the many wonders that can be found in Egypt. If you have any interest in ancient civilizations, or want to know more about the wonders of ancient Egypt, you owe it to yourself to visit this ancient land before its wonders are eventually swept away by the sands of time.

If you are looking forward to Quebec fishing vacations then undoubtedly you are surely opting for a fascinating and entertaining pastime. With profuse ecological purity and complete northern isolation, fishing is indeed an exciting job here. Lake Trout in Quebec is the home of a variety of Pike, Arctic Char and Ouananiche. In the surrounding hilly region, you will find a number of streams and rivers, which have become the habitat of big brookies and behemoths weighing from 3 lbs to 9 lb trophies.

Middle of July is the ideal time for Quebec fishing vacations. Trout fishing generally takes place in the “Clearwater” which lies in the far north. A cluster of wooden cabins popularly known as the camp is located on one of the lake’s island. This area is mainly situated at the mouth of the “Clearwater” from where you are able to enjoy the fantastic view of the best Trout action.

If you have the desire to gift your family an implausible holiday package packed with lots of fun and recreational entertainment then vacation rentals in Stoneham Quebec are surely the right options for you to select. These vacation rentals are especially meant for you to enjoy the cultural adventures of the unprecedented beautiful Quebec. Vacation rentals in Stoneham Quebec are appropriate places to experience some wonderful moments of absolute calm and serenity. They also provide ample opportunities to experience the excitement of the astounding collections of wildlife and various coveted species of fauna and flora to admire and appreciate. Other family lodges, resorts and vacation cottage resorts offer play areas, children’s activity programs, beaches, water sports and games amidst the boondocks of nature.

In Quebec, many car rentals will provide rental facilities to enjoy the pleasure of this exciting province. In fact, car hire in Quebec is an inexpensive way to explore and experience the totality of this wonderful destination.

Some of the world-renowned parks are situated in Quebec. The Parc national de Miguasha on the Gaspe’s Chaleur Bay has successfully made its place on the UNESCO world heritage list. In the Charlevoix region of Quebec, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve has the responsibility of protecting two superbly panoramic parks. These include The Parc national des Grands-Jardins and The Parc national des Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie. Apart from these, Quebec is also a land of numerous gardens and museums. In short, the pristine natural scenario of Quebec is an experience to cherish forever.

The west coast of Holland is almost a beach from north to south. The natural protections against the sea are the dunes. These products of wind, sun and water are one of Holland’s most interesting creatures of nature. They are the natural habitat of endanger species and therefore well protected by the Dutch government.

The northern parts of the Dutch shore are the Wadden Islands. These Islands, Texel, Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland and Schiermonnikoog are now considered as World heritage. This decision has a great impact of the people living on these islands. Due to the new regulations it will be more difficult to build, or to propose for building, industry or business permissions.

The Dutch Wadden islands are very popular among the German and Belgium tourists. Texel is the biggest Dutch Wadden Island, and is also the island with the most possibilities. The island can be reached by a ferry which leaves from Den Helder.

It’s a short journey by the ferry takes about twenty minutes. Texel is famous for its vast flocks of sheep and birds, and for the pleasant villages. The variation in landscape on Texel is such that the island is often termed as ‘the Netherlands writ small’. These landscapes are worth seeing, too. Because
of their special value, the dunes of Texel have been designated as a National Park.

Vlieland is Next Island close To Texel. A great sandbank between Texel and Vlieland is the breading chamber of seals. Texel, Vlieland and Terschelling are situated close together. Yet those visiting these islands will discover completely different worlds. It’s possible to hop between these islands by small ferries.

Between the islands and Holland is the Wadden Sea. The Wadden Sea is teeming with life. Twice a day, the current of the flood tide brings water from the North Sea, rich in sediment and plankton, much of which sinks to the sandy bed.

In addition, the shallow water of the Wadden Sea warms up rapidly in summer. This means that algae and seaweeds are able to grow quickly. They form the basis of the enormous wealth of food that supplies the inhabitants of the Wadden Sea -countless fish, birds and seals.

It’s worth visiting the Wadden islands of Holland. To reach the islands you must to take a ferry from Den Helder for Texel. A ferry from Harlingen for Vlieland and Terschelling, A ferry from Holwerd for Ameland and a ferry from Lauwersoog for Schiermonnikoog.

In these countries there are a lot of organizations that need and appreciate any help from volunteers. You could profit from your holidays and visit countries like Argentina, Columbia, Venezuela and others where you could learn Spanish and have a different and lovely vacation. If you think that volunteering will only help others, you should know that any help will come back to you. You will always get in touch with people that do not speak your language and after you will talk more and more in Spanish you will surely improve your knowledge.

If you love to help others, travel around the world in a unique way and challenge your own abilities then study abroad Latin America will be an experience that you will always remember.

Located close to three hours drive from Brisbane, it is easily reached via the Bruce Highway just past Gympie. It is often known as the gateway to Fraser Island and is surrounded by the incredible Great Sandy National Park. On the final stretch into town there are tall trees on either side of the road, and thick forest as far as the eye can see. These eventually lead to white endless beaches popular for camping.

There are two camping grounds that stand out from the rest, Rainbow Waters Caravan Park, accessible just as you enter the town, and Rainbow Village Caravan Park, located in the heart of town. We have enjoyed numerous family holidays at these locations and each have a different atmosphere and cater to most travellers.

At Rainbow Waters, we noticed there was plenty of space for everyone, with trees and grasslands surrounding the entire park you feel instantly relaxed. Camp fires are permitted, great for that Billy tea and damper. There are pelicans on the river bank waiting to greet you, with the nearby jetty the best place to watch the fishing boats. With excellent amenities, a kiosk and restaurant nearby, it is an ideal place to set up especially if you have a boat and are keen to fish or get out into the calm waters. Bring the insect repellent as the midges come out at dusk.

Rainbow Village is fantastic for families with the pool and playground, barbeque areas and great facilities, and as it is within walking distance from the beach it is an ideal choice for those who want to be close to everything. Head to the beach in the afternoon to fish for dinner and enjoy the beach air. You might to need to call ahead to ensure there is plenty of spots still available, as it is very popular. Come prepared with as much of your own food as you can bring as there is only one grocery shop which can be expensive. We caught our dinners as much as possible, adding to the family fun.

There are a number of natural tourist attractions within easy reach. The coloured sands are the most popular, with bright red, orange and yellow sands amazing to look at. You can climb to the top of some of these sand dunes for incredible panoramic views of the coast. The combination of colourful sands with the long stretches of beach and deep blue waters is what attracts visitors from all over the world to stay in this untouched paradise. Surprisingly, tourism has not affected the friendly township and it is easy to unwind and enjoy the surroundings.

You can’t visit Rainbow Beach without a taste of Fraser Island. As the only way to travel around the sand island is by four wheel drive, you might want to look at the number of excellent day trips available. Choose from a number of walking, adventure or short day tours available which can be easily organised from the mainland. The ferry leaves from Inskip Point, which is also a haven for campers and fishermen.

Fraser is beautiful rain or shine. We headed out in the middle of a thunderstorm, and the scenery was still breathtaking. There was thick birdlife in every direction, giant trees in every direction, and freshwater lakes that are like an oasis within an oasis. Lake McKenzie is the most popular, the white sands setting off the blue of the lake beautifully. Lake Wabby can only be reached by a half hour relatively easy walk. It is the deepest lake on the island and is surrounded by sweeping sand dunes.

If you have the time, it is worth driving further north to visit Tin Can Bay, the main attraction being the dolphin feeding which start at 8am through to 11am. The drive is fantastic and it is worth a day trip to see this unique town. Rainbow Beach is unique in many ways, and is the ideal holiday destination. Come any time of the year and enjoy the chance to unwind and explore on the most beautiful places on earth

The Rossebuurt (Dutch for ‘pink’ or ‘red’ neighborhood) is in fact one of the oldest and most beautiful parts of the city with its long winding narrow, cobbled streets and utterly charming 14th century architecture, such as the gothic Oudekerk, or Old Church. The Red Light District simply oozes charm and one cannot help but admire the old buildings that lean at odd-angles, and the tree-enshrouded canals. Music, especially during the summer season, invites a person to linger just that little bit longer. The arrival classier eateries and great authentic restaurants such as Café Pacifico, one of Europe’s first Mexican restaurants make it appealing for any tourist. For the culture lover there is the very picturesque Zeedijk, the Jewish quarter, Waterloo Square and Nieuwmarkt Square which is just around the corner. Red Light District also boasts a string of unusual shops and pubs.

There is a certain charm to the area thanks to the old buildings leaning at odd angles overlooking tree-enshrouded canals, while inviting pubs, cafes and coffee shops tempts a person to linger longer. Music of every genre can be heard along the streets from a dozen or more venues late at night. Enjoy window shopping at night.

From this high vantage point with its fabulous views over the city, many visitors are shocked to discover that between the late 15th and early 18th centuries at this precise location as many as 300 women suffered the horrific and terrifying fate of being burned at the stake for the crime of witchcraft. During the 16th century more witches were burned here than anywhere else in Scotland.

After exploring historic Edinburgh Castle many visitors take a leisurely stroll along Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile. The Mile is the main thoroughfare of Edinburgh’s Old Town, running from the Castle, across the Esplanade, and down through the Lawnmarket, High Street, Canongate and Abbey Strand, to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of HM The Queen in Scotland.

Taking its name from a combination of its length and the fact that it was the route taken by monarchs travelling between the Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the history of the Mile is fascinating and engaging in equal measure.

This was the haunt of Deacon Brodie, upon whom Robert Louis Stevenson based his famous Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde character, and the notorious serial killers, Burke and Hare who, in the late 1820’s, murdered numerous vulnerable victims (the exact number is unknown, but at least 16) and sold their bodies on a “no questions asked” basis to a willing Dr Knox of Edinburgh University for dissection by his anatomy students.

When the pair were eventually caught, Hare, in return for his freedom, turned King’s Evidence on Burke, who was subsequently hanged publicly at the Lawnmarket on 29 January 1829 before a jeering crowd estimated at 25,000. Burke’s body was put on public display and his skin crafted into a variety of items, including a business card case, which can be seen today at the Police Information Point in the High Street. His skeleton can also be seen at Edinburgh University’s Anatomical Museum.

More venerable names have also lived along the Mile, including the likes of David Hume, the world famous Scottish empiricist philosopher, economist and historian, as well as Adam Smith, father of economics, advocate of free trade and author of The Wealth of Nations. His grave can be seen at historic Canongate Kirkyard, towards the lower end of the Royal Mile.

Other interesting stop off points along the Mile include St Giles Cathedral, the Museum of Childhood (free), the 15th Century John Knox House, the Museum of Edinburgh (free), and Canongate Tolbooth and The People’s Story Museum (free).

Lying almost at the end of the Mile is the controversial yet architecturally stunning Scottish Parliament building. Designed by talented Catalan Architect, the late Enric Miralles, and hugely expensive by any standards, the Parliament is a bold statement of Scotland’s new-found self belief and confidence.

Finally, lying at the very bottom of the Royal Mile sits the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This one time home of Mary Queen of Scots (who as most people know got her head chopped off while imprisoned by her English cousin, Elizabeth I) is set against the magnificent volcanic backdrop of Arthur’s Seat and beautiful Holyrood Park.

A walk down the Royal Mile is just one of the many things visitors can do in wonderful and cosmopolitan Edinburgh. The city oozes history, charm and sophistication and is an architectural treasure. Its heady atmosphere, particularly at Festival time, enchants, captivates and ultimately delights. A fabulous place for a romantic short break or just to escape to and unwind for a few days, no wonder then that so many find themselves eager to return to renew their acquaintance with this new-found friend.

As well as British Airways, a number of low-cost and international carriers fly into Edinburgh Airport, which is located just a short taxi or bus ride out of town. This coupled with excellent road and rail links to other parts of Scotland and the UK means that Edinburgh is highly accessible to all. A wealth of useful information on the best Edinburgh attractions can be found.

If it’s music you’re after then you can’t go far wrong in the music capital of the North West. With venues like the Carling Academy and Barfly, you can catch some of the hottest bands around. And Liverpool is not short of talent with bands like The Zutons and The Coral emerging in the last few years.

Of course, Liverpool hasn’t forgotten the Beatles. Mathew Street and the Cavern Club are still hugely popular. If you visit in August, you could stumble upon the world famous Mathew Festival (Bank holiday weekend) celebrating Merseybeat and all thing Beatles.

The city also boasts some of the best restaurants in the North West. Alma de Cuba and the Sir Thomas Hotel are regular haunts of the Liverpool glitterati so go star spotting and get some tasty food while you’re at it.

If you’re looking for culture then the city has more than enough museums and galleries to please. Highlights are the Maritime Museum, Museum of Liverpool Life, the Tate Gallery and the recently refurbished World Museum.

Finally, you cannot visit Liverpool without visiting the docks. The Albert Dock is just a fifteen-minute walk from the city centre and features restaurants and bars, one-of-a-kind shops and fabulous view across the River Mersey.

This beautiful city is one of the top tourist spot that the Philippines is proud of having. This place is bestowed with wonderful lands and waters that lures and tempts many tourists from and outside the Philippines.

Aside from that, the city has a wonderful history that adds in its magnificence! Originally, the term Davao means fire. It is from the word “daba-daba.” Interesting festivals marked the place. One of the most anticipated and well attended festivals in this city is the well known Dinagyang Festival. Aside from that, many other rituals are done in this place that highlights the gracious past and culture of the people. Davao City is bestowed by different tourist attractions that really lure many visitors from and even outside the Philippines.

Among the historical tourist attraction, the Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague is one of the must see. It is located in Matina, Davao City. This is an open air chapel that features the replica of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague and Our Lady of Fatima. Aside from the relics, the wonderful panoramic view of the coconut plantation and other fruit bearing trees adds in the magnificence of the city.

About 9 to 15 kilometers from the city cradles a shrine for the veterans of war - the Japanese Peace Memorial Shrine/ Cemetery. Even though that there is the term Japanese in the name, the cemetery is open to all sorts of races. Your trip to this city will not be complete if you will never get the chance to see and know the people of the place. Go and visit Davao Museum so you will surely have the chance to witness the culture and traditions of the city and of course the people.

Davao City is also known for the beautiful hand woven cloth and actually you can have a glance on this at the T’Boli Weaving Center. The T’Boli Weaving Center is located at the Insular Hotel Grounds, Insular Hotel, Lanang, Davao City. Your visit in the said place will be highlighted by the demonstration of the tribal women of South Cotabato of the traditional craftsmanship and art of the T’Boli Tribe. See how they weave and turn the native abaca into fibers. Witness how the strips turned into canvass of artistry by designing figures with the intricate of patterns.

Davao is not just a place gifted with great people but also it is gifted with splendid water. You can spend your time around the different beaches, which offer best summer activities. Dive and snorkel around its clear waters! One of the must see is the Muslim Fishing Village located at San Jose, Samal Island. In the said place, children can dive overboard while the adults will be busy side seeing over the magnificent view from the native huts built over the waters. Last but not the least, your stay at the city will not be totally complete without bringing home the ever delicious durian fruit.

Davao City is filled with beautiful sceneries and tourist attractions and of course with beautiful people with the heart of gold! Smiles will surely be a souvenir for any visitor or tourist who will spend time in beautiful Davao! Jose Maria Abada writes for Philippine-Travel-Guide.com.

The River Wye is one of the region’s most popular attractions and winds its way through the idyllic landscape, from Plynlimon to the River Severn, on a picturesque 150-mile journey. In the past, it was used to transport coal, iron and stone and played an important role in the region’s industrial heritage. Nowadays the river is popular with canoeists and water-sport enthusiasts.

The AONB designation covers almost 130 square miles, spanning the counties of Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Monmouthshire. It one of 40 designated areas found in England and Wales, and exemplifies the region’s beauty. Visitors will notice major contrasts between the tranquil lowlands of Herefordshire, to the dramatic gorges carved out by the meandering River Wye.

Wildlife is also important in the Wye Valley. Previously threatened species such as the Lesser Horseshoe Bat have benefited from the rich natural habitat and now flourish. This is also due in part to the designation of three SACs (Special Areas of Conservation) by the European Union Habitats Directive. These SACs have been bestowed on various regions found within the Wye Valley. They cover parts of the woodland, river and Lower Wye Valley area.

There are countless reminders of an eventful and intriguing past found throughout the Wye Valley region. Located on the river, Tintern Abbey is one of the finest examples. This Cistercian Monastery dates back to the 12th century and is one of the most impressive ruins in the UK. Much of the gothic church is still intact while the layout of other sections, while not as well preserved are still clearly evident. The industrial revolution swept through this region, the remains of which can still be seen today in the form of mills and furnaces, peppering the plush green countryside.

The villages found within the Wye Valley also contribute to the character of the Wye Valley region. Places such as Brockhampton, Devauden and Goodrich exude rural charm and offer the visitor a selection of museums and art galleries that showcase the historical and cultural influences of this idyllic land. Goodrich, with its splendid castle is one of the most notable towns, whose name is said to derive from the Doomsday Book. There is also a selection of market towns found within the designated AONB, such as Hereford, Monmouth and Chepstow, which hold farmer’s markets and market days throughout the week.

Some of the delights of the Wye Valley can only be found on foot, with heavy woods concealing almost 30% of the landscape. Thankfully there is a collection of footpaths and winding country lanes that criss-cross the region, providing visitors with access to large swathes of beautiful, untouched countryside. Popular with ramblers and horse-riders, they are a great way of exploring hidden beauty spots. To conclude, the Wye valley offers the visitor a blend of historical, cultural and natural attraction. From spectacular monastic ruins to the countryside charm of its hamlets, the Wye Valley is one of the most dramatic, beautiful regions the UK has to offer. John Dale travels throughout the UK, writing about the regions he visits. You can read an account of his travels through Cottages to rent UK