Padang -Padang Beach

There are two version of which beach to be called Padang Padang Beach. The most known one amongst the visitors are the one east of the bridge after Bingin beach. However, the local in Bukit (South Bali Hill) consider the Padang Padang Beach is the one west of the bridge. The coastline stretch are much longer and wider then the more popular Padang-Padang Beach.To get o this beach you have to pass private land where a small café and home located on it. Thank to God that the land is still own by a Balinese family. The view from the simple café on the top of the cliff is outstanding. A nice curvy coastline with still many coconut trees grow between the white sand beach and the cliff. At distance dreamland beach and even airport is still visible on clear day.

Almost a hundred steps down to get to the beach. Two building like huts are at the bottom. They use for fishermen meeting place as well as fishing tool storage. Only few outrigger boats still exist. There is also some sign of seaweed farming in here as we notice some wooden sticks are planted in line under the water.
If you walk on the beach all the way to the right, at the end of the coastline, there are big rocks. Small shrine is built on the top of one huge rock. Few more temples also located closer to the cliff, amongst spiky pandanous plant and coconuts. When the tide is low , it is possible to walk around the corner and see the common Padang- Padang in the other side. Around this corner is where the famous wave of Padang Padang is located.

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Opera Sidney

One of the most graceful constructions The Harbour Bridge, Sidney’s pride!
Ada sebuah tempat, sebuah patung, yang merupakan bangunan namun juga karya seni. It contains one hundred and fifty tons of concrete, and takes a height of about 221 feet, a width of 597 feet, with 66,420 feet of glass surrounding it. Berisi satu ratus lima puluh ton beton, dan ketinggian sekitar 221 kaki, lebar mencapai 597 kaki, dengan 66.420 kaki sekitar kaca itu. This is the Sydney Opera House, located in Sydney, Australia; considered a great architectural wonder. Ini adalah Sydney Opera House, yang terletak di Sydney, Australia; dianggap besar arsitektur heran.

Built in 1955, it was a challenge called onto the best architects of the world to build an opera house for Sidney, the capital of Australia. Dibangun pada tahun 1955, ia dipanggil ke sebuah tantangan arsitek yang terbaik di dunia untuk membangun sebuah gedung untuk Sidney, ibukota Australia. Only able to build upon a small strip of land that jets out into the harbor, it must contain 2 concert halls, holding 1000, and 3000 people each. Hanya mampu untuk membangun suatu strip kecil tanah jet yang keluar masuk ke pelabuhan, harus berisi 2 ruang konser, menahan 1000, dan 3000 masing-masing orang. Most importantly, it had to be beautiful. Yang terpenting, ia harus indah.

Indeed it was beautiful when completed -- as the vision of an architect for the building to be made of concrete shells soaring over the harbor as sails of a ship was accepted. Sesungguhnya ia indah ketika selesai - sebagai sebuah visi untuk arsitek bangunan dibuat dari beton kerang melonjak melalui pelabuhan sebagai Layar dari sebuah kapal telah diterima. His idea won, and so the construction began. Memenangkan ide-Nya, sehingga konstruksi dimulai. It took 15 years to gather enough money and to finish, but standing today is a spectacular work of art. Butuh waktu 15 tahun untuk mengumpulkan uang yang cukup dan selesai, tapi berdiri hari ini merupakan karya seni yang spektakuler.

The Sidney Opera house was designed by Danish architect Jorn Utzon and opened on 20 October 1973. Sidney Opera rumah yang dirancang oleh arsitek Denmark Jorn Utzon dan dibuka pada tanggal 20 Oktober 1973. It is known for the billowing, white, sail-shaped shells that form the roof structure. Diketahui untuk kepuh, putih, berlayar berbentuk kerang yang membentuk struktur atap.

The design won an international competition in 1957, but the building of the complex was beset by conflict and escalating costs which resulted in Utzon's resignation from the project in 1966. Desain memenangkan kompetisi internasional di tahun 1957, namun bangunan yang mengelilingi kompleks itu oleh konflik yg naik perlahan-lahan dan biaya yang dihasilkan dalam Utzon berhenti dari proyek pada tahun 1966. Read More..

Konstanz, Germany

Switzerland, Austria and Germany share the shores of Lake Constance, the largest lake in the German-speaking world. Visitors go hiking, biking and boating and maybe even take a zeppelin ride in honor of Count Ferdinand von Zeppelin himself, inventor of the helium-filled airship and a native of Konstanz.
Die-hard hikers can round the lake in 14 days, and bikers in two or three, but it's much more fun to mix it up. Many Americans fly into Zurich, Switzerland, then hop a train to descend the stairs to the Rhine Falls, Europe's largest cataract. The falls are riven by a jutting rock, a cleft that shoots foam and spray up in a moody mist evocative of a Romantic-era canvas.
The water around the edge of this lake in Germany is quite shallow and features some marshes which are home to approximately 250,000 different kinds of birds. Some merely nest there during their winter migration while others take up residence throughout the year. Amazingly these birds find room to live when the shallows consist of 14% of the entire surface area of the lake. The birds feed on shellfish, plants, and other things around the lake. Those touring Lake Constance, by bike or other means, will want to keep an eye on the marshes. Several species of threatened birds are fond of nesting amid the reeds and some blossoming plants—such as Siberian lilies—can be found.

There are over 30 species of fish to be found in Lake Constance. Yet pollution and over-fishing has damaged the aquatic ecology. However, conservation efforts have brought a species of fish back from the verge of extinction.

Those looking to take bike tours Lake Constance will not be disappointed. A circular trip around this lake in Germany is possible and is approximately 150 miles and takes around four days to complete. While you will remain near the lakeside, there are some hills to be climbed. Generally the bike path is paved but there are instances of gravel so be certain to pay attention. The signs for cyclists will change depending on where you are as each country uses a different style. Accommodations for those taking bike tours Lake Constance are readily available—there are both hotels and bed and breakfasts along the way. If you want to take bike tours Lake Constance you are advised to make reservations as this scenic activity is very popular, particularly during the summer and especially during July. Read More..

Yukon

The Yukon is well-known for its friendly people, distinct culture and historical ties to the Gold Rush. Vast and spectacular landscapes make it a top destination for outdoor adventure.

As one of the top five world destinations for RV travelers, river travelers, hikers and mountain bikers, the Yukon is ideal for outdoor activities. Hike, bike, dog-sled, river-raft, rock-climb, fish, snowmobile, and more. Catch "Gold Fever" when you try your luck panning for gold, or follow in the footsteps of gold-seekers on the Chilkoot Trail. Research your genealogy at the Yukon Archives and look for your family name in the list of Gold Rush participants. Travel to Dawson City in the heart of the Klondike and visit the historic cabin of author Jack London. Don't forget to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, one of nature's most awesome displays Read More..

Hunter in Alaska

A regulation requiring hunters on US Army lands to possess hunter education certification will go into effect in Alaska on January 1, 2000. US Army Alaska Natural Resources Chief Bill Gossweiler says the regulation has been on the books for two years, but Alaska implementation has been delayed because of the impact on hunters.
Gossweiler said Army commanders have been concerned that many Alaskans who use Army lands for hunting do not currently have the required certification and cannot obtain it in a short time. In other parts of the United States, most hunters do have the certification because every other state has some form of mandatory hunter education. The regulation was scheduled for implementation here on January 1, 1999, but delayed because of this concern.
The new regulation will affect hunters on Fort Richardson in the Anchorage bowl, Fort Wainwright in the Fairbanks area, and Fort Greely in the Delta Junction area. In addition to the bases themselves, Fort Wainwright and Fort Greely each manage large areas of nearby military lands south of Fairbanks and west of Delta. Civilian and military hunters extensively use these military reservations. A long-standing military regulation requires all hunters to obtain permits before using military lands in Alaska. This allows military personnel to direct hunters away from areas containing unexploded ordinance or active live-fire training exercises.
The new regulation does not affect Air Force lands.
Meanwhile, Alaska volunteer hunter education instructors are gearing up to provide necessary training in the areas affected by the regulation. Fairbanks ADF&G regional hunter education coordinator Bob Hunter says instructors in Fairbanks and Delta Junction are developing classes this summer and fall to meet the anticipated demand. Class schedule information
can be obtained from hunter information and
training program staff in Fairbanks (Bob Hunter – 907/459-7211) and Anchorage (Rod Perry – 907/267-2373). Alaska hunter education certification is accepted in other states and provinces that have these requirements.
Hunter education requirements are widening in Alaska. Beyond the military requirement, some younger Southcentral Alaska hunters will need to be certified next summer. Beginning August 1, 2000, hunters born after January 1, 1984 must have completed a hunter education course to hunt in Game Management Units 7, 14 and 15 (the Kenai Peninsula, the Anchorage area and the Mat/Su area east of the Susitna River). Read More..

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The Gulf Coast of Florida

Florida is often overlooked as a travel destination due to the amount of advertising the local theme parks do via the internet, print and television. The truth is that Southwest Florida has so much more to offer, families, singles and retired persons then the bells and whistles of the traditional theme park laden vacation.

The area of Florida located on the Gulf Coast of Florida midway between Miami and Tampa is a smorgasbord of vacation related activities and destinations.

For the sports minded there are more golf courses and hiking trails then you can possibly utilize in the average week long stay. Recent years have given rise to the sport of bicycle racing with events held throughout the year. The Tarpon tournaments held yearly in July draw visitors from all over the world to both watch and participate in this high dollar, adrenaline pumping fishing tournament.

For those looking to rest and relax, this coast is filled with pristine native beaches that boast native plants, animals, and birds. Shelling is the sport of kings on this coast as you can easily find perfect shells and fossilized shark’s teeth to fill your pockets. Manasota Key or any of the other keys will give you a feeling of being swept away, without making day trips difficult or time consuming.

For the academically inclined, there are also many historical sites and museums to visit locally or within driving distance to enrich your knowledge of American History.

An added benefit to the wide range of activities available is the cost. This area of Florida provides lower costs then resort areas like Orlando and Miami. The local population is overall friendly and will gladly direct you to the places they prefer to dine and shop, saving you even more money!

You can easily find great discounts on flights by flying into your choice of the following airports: Sarasota, Tampa, or Fort Myers. By having more then one area you can fly into, you can save even more on your air fare!

If you are looking for a low cost, high enjoyment vacation, reconsider the “Old School” Gulf Coast of Florida. Read More..

Taj Mahal Tour - be Part of the Magical History of the Taj Mahal

Nothing in the world can beat the magical effect of the Taj Mahal. Tourists who haven’t set foot in India dream to be here one day and tourists who have been here know what haunting beauty is all about. Admired worldwide as a symbol of love and beauty this beautiful Mausoleum seems like a dream woven in marble on a star studded night. Built by Shah Jahan for his lady love and wife Mumtaz Mahal the monument tells a tale of love, bereavement and mystery. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River this architectural marvel was constructed in marble and semi precious stones which were imported from China and Italy. A mere four hours drive from Delhi will take you to Agra. If you are venturing on a Taj Mahal Tour remember to include Agra Fort, Itmad-ud-Daullah's Tomb, Chini Ka Rauza and Sikandra as well to get an overall picture about Mughal architecture and Era. For a more endearing experience also visit the derelict town of Fatehpur Sikri enroute

Taj Mahal Tour commences with your touching Delhi. Make headway right away so as to reach fast and begin exploring early enough. Keep two days in hand for a thorough Taj Mahal Tour.After you reach Agra don't go to the Taj Mahal right away. Rather take your time to know this old city with its narrow lanes and Mughlai cuisine. Check out some of the handcrafted items on sale by the road. Strike a conversation with a local and know the present scenario of Agra. That's how a real traveler should travel.
Next day get up early in the morning to go to the Taj Mahal. A careful study of the architecture tells you that the Taj blends Hindu architecture and patterns along with Mughal designs and arches. The red lotus which is seen in Taj Mahal is actually a symbol of Brahma while the trident that features several times in the inner sanctuary of the tomb is a symbol of Shiva. If we keep in mind that Shah Jahan was a liberal ruler who was keener towards humanity in general rather than towards either Hindus or Muslims, everything falls into place. The inner chambers of the Taj are carved and designed with semi precious stones while the exterior facade is a study in geometrical patterns and symmetry.It is said that the Taj looks different in the early rays of the sun, in the afternoon and in the night.
Taj Mahal Tour would be incomplete without a visit to the Agra Fort. Situated right across the Yamuna overlooking the Taj it is said that Shah Jahan used to watch the monument of his love when he was imprisoned in the Agra Fort by his own son Aurangzeb. Read More..

Discover Sekotong, South West Lombok!

Sekotong, South West Lombok, is unique amongst the other dive locations around Lombok. Here one finds diving as individual experiences at exclusive new dive sites around the south coast, and special day trips with the chance to go exploring in undiscovered waters. Located in the tropical bay of Sekotong, an 1,5 hour drive from Senggigi you can find the Sundancer 5star resort, and the location promises tropical sun, fabulous diving and short ways to and from the boats.

With over 3,500 species living in the Indonesian underwater world, there is one of the richest diversities of marine life to be found in this Indo-Pacific region. In comparison, the Great Barrier Reef has just 1,500 species and the Red Sea only 600. The dive sites in South Lombok reflect a good cross-section of what Indonesia has to offer, and you can “Dive in” and be fascinated by turtles, white tip reef sharks, cuttle fish, moray eels, frog fish, ghost pipefish and much, much more. South Lombok presents itself as a highlight for photographers and all scuba enthusiasts.

There are varying conditions throughout the bay of Sekotong. From easy and relaxed conditions in the protected bay to exciting and adventurous diving around Bangko Bangko and further south. This enables Sekotong to offer a great variety of dive sites for the experienced, as well as for the beginning diver, as well as fun daytrips for snorkeling and families!

Not a diver? Not a problem. The fascinating islands along the south coast welcome you with white sandy beaches for swimming, snorkeling and relaxing. Join a boat trip and view the breathtaking scenery of Lombok’s coastline and experience the pristine beaches while the divers are on the way. During the breaks you can enjoy the relaxed picnic together and have fun. There are also quiet a few opportunities to get into diving. You can do a “Scuba try out” free of charge in the shallow water. A qualified dive instructors or dive master will explain the scuba gear to you, and you can try out how comfortable you feel in the water breathing "bottled" air. Read More..

Borobudur ( Budhis Mystery in Stone )

Firstly, we must compare Borobudur to a Mandala, that is, a geometrical diagram to assist meditation. Secondly, Borobudur is a magic model of the universe, conceived for the spiritual exercise of the monks.

Borobudur is the answer Buddhism - at a point in its history halfway between the appearance of its founder The Great Buddha Sakyamuni (Siddharta Gautama) and our time - gave to the ever-lasting enigma, that is, the relation of the unreal and illusive world in which mankind opereates and the ultimate reality behind it all. It is an answer of human religious feeling or spiritual feeling – the Union World of forms and Reality or Man and God.

The theatre of the relation between Man and God or forms and Reality expressed in Borobudur’s beautiful existence. Borobudur shows the three spheres of cosmos, that is, sphere of desire, sphere of form and sphere of formless (Kamadhatu, Rupadhatu, and Arupadhatu).

The basic section shows the law of cause and effect (Karma) from the Teaching of Buddha. The sight of the misery of this world will condition the mind of pilgrim to be prepared for the idea of liberation from the world. Evil actions will bring the suffering and good actions will bring the conditions to comprehend a more higher teaching.

The second section explaines the practice of the self-deliverence of Buddha Sakyamuni. We must release ourselves from the suffering but we cannot stop the suffering itself.

The following section teach us how we can learn from the footsteps of Boddhisattvas who offer themselves for the happiness of all beings. The boddhisattvas have succeeded in getting rid of all the attachment and attain the state of spiritual liberation for the happines of all living beings.

The final section is the greatness of all the Dhyani-Buddhas (Meditative Buddhas) with a primary highest Buddha called Adhi-Buddha.

Observing these facts, we can say that Borobudur Temple is a perfect masterpiece viewed both esthetic and religious settings, explaining the holy teaching of the Great Buddha Sakyamuni (Siddharta gautama), namely; Karmavibbhanga teaching, Lalitavistara which guides pilgrim to get rid of the sufferings, Jatakamala, Avadana, Gandavyuha and Bhadrachari or Maha Samantha Bhadracarita Pranidanangatha teachings which explain how the pilgrim must learn and follow all Boddhisattvas’ holy actions for the happines of all living beings. Finally, the pilgrim will encounter the Union World of Human and God, and attain the world of Absoluteness, Oneness, and the Ultimate Reality or also called Nirwana. Read More..

Belize- for an Adventure Filled Vacation

If you are looking for an adventure, unlike anything you have experienced before, Belize is just the right place for your vacation
. Discover a network of fast flowing rivers and cascading waterfalls, spectacular limestone caves, lush rainforests, world class fishing, diving, and snorkeling, mysterious Maya Ruins, and miles of beautiful white sand beaches. There is so much that makes Belize a paradise for travel lovers.

The following are just a few examples and possibilities for an adventurous vacation in Belize.

ATM Tour (Actun Tunichil Muknal)

Would you like to explore an ancient cave untouched for 1000 years? This popular site, popular among vacationers is as close as you will come. Near the Cayo District an ancient cave once used for Mayan ceremonies was discovered and left untouched, with human remains, and over 200 artifacts. Getting to the cave is just as exciting as you travel on foot for a 45 minute trek through the pristine jungle.. You will experience the natural beauty of Belize first hand with its abundance of exotic wildlife. ATM is a must for your Belize vacation.

World famous Barrier Reef

The Belize Barrier Reef is a precious natural wonder and the second longest reef in the world. Home to one of the most important ecosystems in the world, the reef has 70 coral species and 500 species of fish. It is a natural wonder, yet at your doorstep while visiting one of the many fabulous Belize vacation destinations. The reef provides excellent world class diving, snorkeling, and fishing opportunities. No Belize vacation is complete without visiting the Barrier Reef.

Tales of Mayan Legacy

One of the most important parts of Belize's history is the Mayan legacy of outstanding palaces and temples. These historical monuments stand proudly and attract vacationers in huge numbers.

The magnificent ruins of the ancient civilization are delight for everyone, not only history enthusiasts. While on your Belize vacation don’t forget to visit the famous archaeological sites like Caracol, Cerros, Lamanai, Actun Tunichil Muknal, Altun Ha, Cahal Pech, El Pilar, Nim Li Punit and Xunantunich.

Southern Belize with Unlimited Options

A favorite vacation destination, this beautiful, pristine area of Belize in the Toledo District embraces the sea, and possesses a lush jungle with many rivers and Mayan villages. Hike any of a number of trails leading to waterfalls and ancient caves.

And when it comes to fishing, there are unlimited options to round off your vacation. Port Honduras Marine Reserve, Punta Ycacos Lagoon, Monkey River, and Punta Negra Lake all offer first class fishing experiences. This is a good choice for a Belize vacation.

Sun Kissed Belize Beaches

The beautiful tropical beaches nestled by the Caribbean Sea are the best in the world. A relaxing vacation under the warm Belize sun with plenty of relaxing on any of the beautiful beaches is all you need to charge your batteries..

Choose from any of the island destinations, such as Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker, or on the mainland the Placencia Peninsula or Hopkins. Miles of absolutely beautiful serene, white sand beaches await your arrival on your vacation to Belize.

Scuba Diving

Due to unlimited scuba diving options in Belize, it has become one of the favorite dive destinations for scuba divers vacationing in Belize. It is simply up to you whether it is the coral reef or a shipwreck that you would like to experience during your vacation in Belize. However, the best diving spots include the world-known Outer Atolls - Lighthouse Reef, Turneffe Island and Glover’s Reef.

With so many interesting things to do during your Belize vacation, you’ll surely have the time of your life and will want to come back again and again. To make your Belize vacation, a memorable one, plan your holiday beforehand by consulting a reputed travel agency. A fantastic Belize Vacation Package can go a long way to enhance your enjoyment.

December to April is the peak tourist season in Belize. If you plan to visit around then, plan in advance and you can get some attractive vacation specials.

Getting to Belize which is in Central America is very easy. Major airlines such as American, Continental, Delta, US Air, and Taca Airlines run daily flights

lasting about two hours from several U.S. cities to Belize International Airport. Read More..

Surabaya Zoo – South Asia’s Largest Habitat of Wild Animals

Surabaya, one of the biggest cities in Asia is the second largest city in Indonesia while being the capital of East Java. When considering the main attractions in the area, “Surabaya zoo” takes a leading position as one of the most visited attractions. It is the largest zoo in Southeast Asia occupying a width of over 15 hectares and has been divided into several fractions for aquarium and brine, Bird watching, night animals and for a large variety of mammals.

The zoo was opened to public on the 31st August 1916 by a group of animal lovers. Now it is estimated that over 3,500 animals representing more than 400 species are housed in the zoo including Indonesia’s rare and other endangered animals in the world. The tower in the zoo is a fantastic way to enjoy an all-inclusive panoramic view of the entire zoo. Visitors who would love to get on the back of the biggest mammal on earth will have the chance to have an exhilarating elephant back ride and also a camel ride.

Some of the interesting animal species include the Komodo which is a gigantic lizard natively from Komodo Island, the bekantan monkey, some tigers from Sumatra, five flamingoes of South America and the Jalak, a parrot from Bali can be mentioned as only few that drag the attention immediately once entered to the zoo.

The zoo has become a mode of getting spellbound by its mesmerizing aquarium that contains thousands of diverse sea animals and reefs. With the increasing number of its species and tourists the aquarium has been modifies several times from its opening. The skyscrapers of the zoo happen to be nothing else but its gigantic trees that have grown so high that they hide the sky of one’s view from the ground. The zoo offers some other additional services such as dining facilities, children's playground and even insurance for and accidents. Read More..

Krabi beach Thailand

One of Thailand's best kept secrets, Krabi offers stunning limestone scenery, coves, bays, white sandy beaches and an equally interesting interior full of caves, forest, rice fields and plantations. This lovely province is being carefully developed with low rise hotels, open-air restaurants and local open-top buses adding to the charm of the place.
Located along the Andaman coast, in southern Thailand, Krabi is one of southern Thailand's most picturesque provinces. Midway between Phuket and Samui Island, with perfect beaches and a stunning interior. The province is famous for its great natural beauty, characterised by the limestone "karst" scenery that can be seen throughout the entire area.
The southern Thailand town of Krabi serves as base camp for exploring the province of the same name, a lush region of jungles, limestone cliffs and idyllic isles floating just offshore in the Andaman Sea. Buddhist shrines still used by local monks are tucked into the chambers of the town's top attraction, Tiger Cave. The riverside pier links travellers with ferries and longboats to the best scuba diving, rock climbing and white sand beaches on the coast. Read More..

Ruakituri river fishing spot for your weekend

For an overnight trout fishing trip I recommend the famous Ruakituri river in northern Hawkes Bay. Stay for 1 to 3 nights in a local farm cottage on the upper reaches.
Enjoy real back country wilderness fishing and the chance to catch a magnificent trophy brown or rainbow trout. This unique river is a must-fish spot in the North Island of New Zealand.
The Ruakituri River is known by anglers far and wide as the home of some of the strongest, wildest trout in New Zealand.
The Ruakituri is an isolated river that rises in the remote Urewera National Park north of Lake Waikaremoana, draining the Huiarau Range and flowing for many kilometres through rugged and remote bush-clad backcountry.
This relatively inaccessible river offers superb fly fishing for over 30km. There is another 20km of water in the headwaters for active anglers proficient in bushcraft and prepared to tramp.
Most trout are caught in the Ruakituri on well weighted caddis & mayfly nymphs. On summer evenings there is often an active splashy caddis rise on some of the more quietly flowing pools.
Farm cottage accommadation $ 25 per person, per night.
Fishing season: 1 Oct-30 June. Fly fishing only Read More..

Nine dragon lake

Nine Dragon Lake Scenery Zone is located in Nine Dragon Lake Town in the northwest of Zhenhai District, Ningbo. It is 19 kilometers away from Zhenhai urban district and 18 kilometers away from Ningbo downtown area. As one of the ten best new sceneries of Ningbo, Nine Dragon Lake Scenic Spot is surrounded by mountains on three sides with low hills as its main geographical feature. Nine Dragon Lake is made up of four lakes, namely, Peacock Lake, Phoenix Lake, Moon Lake and Swan Lake with an area of water up to 2 square kilometers. The whole scenery is superior in natural ecological environment with profound historical and cultural significance.

initially, we were concerned that we might get lost or not be able to find help if we needed it. Once we were there, we found the 1:50,000 scale topographic maps were somewhat difficult to use and sometimes inaccurate (South Agean islands near Agean Lake comes to mind). Maps with more detail would've been nice, but I don't believe any exist. The blazed/marked portages were almost always easy to find, and while we were often unsure until we found the portage, we never actually got lost.

We don't yet have a GPS for our wilderness trips, but I'm really inclined to get one for our next trip. It could have come in handy a few times on this trip. Thanks to Peg's good orienteering skills, we weren't in any real danger of being lost, it just took us longer than necessary to navigate through a few lakes that either had far too many islands (in my humble opinion) or, in the reverse case, lakes with very few distinguishing coastal or island landmarks. Read More..

Fernando de Noronha - Brazil

Discovered in 1503 by Portuguese this 7 mile long Remote Island offers exquisite experiences for a traveler seeking peaceful and relaxed time at beaches. The unspoiled and breathtaking beaches of Fernando De Noronha lying at the northeast coast of Brazil was declared as marine national park in 1988.Only 420 tourists are allowed on the beach at any time. If you are one among the lucky few then treat yourself to the spectacular natural beauty which lays within 21 islands a home to cascading waterfalls and natural swimming pools and white sand beaches. The water is full of exotic fishes, dolphins, lobsters, corals ideal for snorkeling and underwater diving. You can do surfing at Cacimba do Padre,Bode and Boldro considered as best surfing spots in the world. Porcos Bay has one of the most beautiful stretches of sand while Conceicao beach has long shores.If you are adventurous then dive into natural waters of Atalaia beach or Sancho Bay which is enclosed inside natural walls and you can go only by metal ladder hooked to the rock.

There are daily flights from Brazilian cities of Recife and Natal which takes approximately one hour and 15 minutes. You are also required to pay conservation tax (US $10) for each day you are on the island. There are dune-buggy taxi services with flat rate of US$ 4 which will take you to all the places. Be careful as the roads are rugged with high risk of accidents.
The best time to visit the island is from mid-December to February. The island has warm weather with rains in January to August. Explore, dive or surf at the archipelago beyond Fernando de Noronha by boat which leave daily from Port Santo Antonio.
There is no luxury or full service resorts since it is a remote island. There is just one hotel and about 70 pousadas or family run inns which provide three daily meals. The tourists are charged per person per night. Brazilian government has a rating system based on dolphins according to the requirements of tourists. It will help you if you know smattering of Portuguese but English is hardly spoken or understood here. You should also bring Reais the Brazilian currency to avoid any problems.
The island offers varieties of seafood .Try fish cooked in banana leaves with deep fried shark meat dumplings which are available in abundance at the island for other items are imported from mainland.

Diving - Fernando de Noronha is considered the best beach in Brazil for diving. To reach that category, the national park offers a wide diversity of places where you can dive with diverse difficulty levels. From March to November you can have up to 50 meters in the 16 different places for diving, that goes from the most easy but beautiful spot (Navio de Porto, 8 M) to the deepest Corveta V17 (up to 63 M) that is only for experienced divers.
Trials - Fernando de Noronha has 8 defined trails combining different views and arriving at different beaches. For example the Farol Trial has 2.5 Km along an amazing sequence of belvederes from where you can view incredible landscapes. Or if you want a trip back in time you can take the Pedra Alta Little Point Trial where you can see old stones and caves. Other famous trials are the Elizabeth Garden and the Emerald Coast.
Surfing - Fernando Noronha is a great place for surfing, not only for his natural beauty but also for the diverse beaches where you can practice good surfing. Between the several points in the island that are good for surfing, the most remarkable are: Laje da Cacimba and Conceicao. Read More..

Osaka Castle

Osaka castle is Osaka's most recognised landmark, originally built in 1583 by Hideyoshi Toyotomi as a symbol of his authority and power. After he achieved his goal of unifying Japan, 100,000 workers took three years to construct this castle.

However in 1603, Ieyasu Tokugawa increased in power after the Hideyoshi's death and established the shogunate in Tokyo. There remained a tense relationship between the two families and eventually in the Summer of 1615, the Tokugawa forces consisting of 200,000 soldiers seiged the castle. The castle was destoyed but rebuilt by the Tokugawa forces within 10 years.

The story of Osaka castle doesn't finish here though as it was destroyed once again only 39 years after its reconstruction, not by war but suprisingly by lightning and was left as it was until reconstruction in 1931. Unfortunately the castle is a concrete reproduction of the original.

Inside the castle exhibits Toyotomi's memorabillia, as well as displays relating to the history of the castle. Entrance to the castle is 600 yen, but the exhibition offers little interest to foreigners so its probably not worth the entrance fee but definately come here to look at the picturesque castle

Of special note are the grand gates and turrets along the outer moat. The steep walls that rise close to 30m high are made from huge blocks of stone that were transported to Osaka from quarries over 100km away. At the entrance to the Main Tower on the left is famous "marker gun," a cannon from the Tokugawa era that was fired every day to signal the noon hour.

If you have the time and patience you can search the walls for the family 'seal' engraved into some of the stones. This is the mark of the family who laid that particular section of the wall. If you visit the displays within the castle first there are examples of what and where to look. It is a nice way to spend a couple of hours and really gives you a connection with the history of the castle.

The museum is laid out across six floors, with the top floor being an observation deck and shop. The suggested route is to start at the top and work your way down. This is because the museum is laid out in reverse chronological order, i.e. the oldest displays are at he top. However this route requires a fair level of fitness, so we spent a few minutes enjoying the marvellous view from the observation deck wishing we'd taken the holiday route (one floor at a time starting from the bottom) instead.

• 1st floor; Theatre Room, Information, Museum Shop
• 2nd floor; Osaka Castle history (after the Tokugcswa Regime), Replica Dragon Fish, Replica Roof Tiles
• 3rd & 4th floors; Hidegoshi Toyotomi and his era (including models of the castle during this period), a full scale model of The Golden Tea Room (this is the tea room built by Hidegoshi Toyotomi).
• 5th Floor; Scenes from the ''Summer war of Osaka" folding Screen. This includes a miniature battle scene between the forces of Yukimura Sanada and Tadanao Matudaira.
• 6th Floor; the life of Hideyoshi Toyotomi, including his life story depicted in a miniature diorama. Around the walls are a number of monitors displaying holographic images of the Shogun at key points in his life. The narratives lead up to the two fateful sieges, the winter siege of 1614 and the summer siege of 1615, that led to the downfall of the Toyotomi family and the rise of the Tokugawa Shogunate.

The Castle is open from 9:00am to 5:00pm and costs ¥600 for adults and is free for children under 16. You can use the JR Osaka loop line getting off at Morinomiya Station (slightly longer walk), or, Tenmabash Station on the Tanimachi Subway line from Umeda Station. Read More..

"Donana" National Park in Spain

The Doñana National Park is the largest National park in Spain and one of the most important in Europe. The 50,720 hectares of protected land is located within several provinces of southern Spain. The park consists of several unique ecosystems benefiting from the mild climate. The park is home to many important plant species and a wealth of wildlife. Many rare birds migrate here.
The authorities have managed to protect the area yet make it available for public use and enjoyment in the form of campsites, recreation grounds and long, golden beaches. The various bird watching stations combine with excellent visitor information centres and planned walking or cycling routes. Each year the park receives hundreds of thousands of visitors.
Many of the villages and towns around the park are worthy of a visit. Such as the town of El Rocio, a unique and strange place of worship. Here you will also find a large lake (above) that is home to flamingos and other birds. Sit in the restaurant and enjoy the tranquility.
If its beaches that you require then head for Matalascañas, Mazagón or Chipiona.

One of the best ways to see much of the park is by means of a boat that sails from Sanlúcar de Barrameda and up the river, making two stops where guided tours are given. The office for bookings is located in the old ice factory in Sanlúcar. You will also find a very interesting visitors centre here with several displays. As you drive or walk through the park you will see vast expanses of low pine trees, tiny natural waterways and marshland. The area has always been of major importance to Spain. It began as a royal hunting ground and in 1964 the first 6794 hectares of land was purchased in order to protect it. In 1969 the Doñana National Park was declared and later, in 1978 it was given its own legal regime. In 1994 the park was declared a National Heritage site.
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Leka Island

The Leka Ophiolite Complex is 497+/- 2 million years old. The age was determined by examining weak radioactive minerals in the silica-rich lavas.
Later, the complex was eroded down to sea level and sedimentary rocks were deposted on top. These were later folded and lithified to the conglerates, sandstones, marbvles and shales we see today. They are found in a belt from Gangstøen, through Leka Camping, past Havna and north on the eastern side of Skeisnesset.
In this area of Norway where continental bedrock dominates, The Leka Ophiolite Complex is an exotic remnant of oceanic material. In some places the old continental bedrock breakes the surface. On the mainland (Gutvik/Austra), granitic gneiss is the main rock type. These rocks are ca. 1800 million years old and formed when granites undergo high stresses or temperatures.
The sedimentary rocks deposited in continental basins or on the continental shelf were folded during the Caledonian orogeny as well. On Solsemøyene we find this type of sedimentary rock. The rocks that were shoved deepest became so warm that they melted partially. There were also intrusions from melt from the mantle. This magmatic material formed intrusive rocks like granites, syenites and gabbros. In Horta, we find all three of these rock types together with metamorphosed sedimentary rocks. There are also granites on Sklinna.
On the path up to the Solsem Cave, we find what might be the country’s youngest rock - a conglomerate that is approximately 10,000 years old. It is formed by cementing loose grains and gravels to make a conglomerate and was formed after the last Ice Age. Read More..

The Ireland Temptations Revealed

Ireland is a popular tourist destination. This country offers unrivalled tourist attractions. This is what makes people come back time and again to Ireland. What makes Ireland as popular as it is now among tourists? What is its charisma that makes people want to go back?

Ireland is an 84,412 km land area with a total coastline distance of 3,172. It is considered as the emerald isle” because of its prominent greens. Its capital city is Dublin, known for its cosmopolitan and chic mood.

Ireland’s Tourist Attractions

Ireland is the home of the Irish race. The Irish contributes to the appeal of this country. They are the people who will welcome anyone with a smile. Hospitality and amiability are traits common to the Irish. These people are nurtured by culture and strengthened by history. Their ways are guided by Irish principles that have guided their ancestors.

Ireland offers an exquisite view and experience of nature at its best. There are several gardens to explore. The St. Stephen’s Green is one of the most visited garden attractions in Ireland. There are several more nature attractions in Ireland. It is in Ireland where you can take a walk surrounded by the unspoiled beauty of nature.

Ireland is a land of culture and history. This is evident in the many festivals celebrated in this country. Tourists can join in the fun and festive spirit of this country. There are festivals commemorating music and arts, films, children, literature, nature, youth and history. These fares and festivals are proofs to how the Irish revere their rich culture.

There are also several historical sites and heritage castles to visit in Ireland. Tourists can relive the earliest years of this country with the several museums. The national museum of Ireland can be visited in Dublin. There are museums celebrating literature, arts, and even transportation. The old castles, which used to serve as residences or fortresses, now serve as historical tourist attractions.

Staying In Ireland Made Easy

Getting to Ireland is easy with all the transportation modes in this country. There are land, water and air transportations operating in Ireland. Staying in Ireland is also a burden off the shoulders of tourists. There is a wide array of hotels and accommodations in Ireland. These hotels suit any type of budget and needs. They range from economy to luxury.

Indeed, there are countless reasons why tourists simply love Ireland. With all the attractions and complete comfort, there is no better home away from home” destination than Ireland. Read More..

The Biggest waterfall in the world "Niagara

For years Niagara Falls has been one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States and Canada. Visitors from abroad and North America cannot seem to shake their desire to visit this dramatic aquatic spectacle. But why exactly? The falls are not particularly convenient to any major U.S. city (apologies to Buffalo), which means visitors to the US will need at least two days to fit in a visit to Niagara. Furthermore besides the actual falls themselves, there is little in the way of cultural or natural points of interest in the area. That is unless you consider a visit to 'Ripley's Believe it or Not' to be a cultural experience. Finally, the climate in the Niagara region is rather daunting for much of the year. The area gets a lot of precipitation throughout the year and winter is definitely rugged in that region.

The short answer to why Niagara Falls has such a following is good PR. People from far and wide have heard of Niagara Falls. I recently asked a friend from Taiwan if she had heard of Niagara Falls before moving to the states. "Of course!", she replied, "we learned about Niagara Falls in grade school." She went on to explain that most people who grew up in Asia consider Niagara Falls to be one of the most important sites to see in the U.S. Its reputation is also strong throughout Europe and India. The thought of missing Niagara Falls is akin to missing the Great Wall or the Taj Majal on a visit to China or India respectively.

The real key to Niagara Fall's enduring lure, however, may be simply that it does not disappoint. The falls themselves have an undeniable dramatic beauty. Furthermore, the ever popular Maid of the Mist boat ride that takes tourists directly into the falls is truly thrilling. Beyond that, the town of Niagara Falls, Ontario has a certain dilapidated charm. As you stroll along Queen Victoria Park facing the falls on the Canadian side, you cannot help but get a sense of what it must have been like to visit in more innocent times; before we were jaded by extreme vacations and adventure tours. To think of someone actually climbing into a barrel and heading over the falls in 1901 (actually done for the first time by a 63 year old school teacher) still captures the imagination.

To get more insight into what impression Niagara Falls makes, I interviewed 40 people who had visited the Falls in the past several years. The survey, taken from a semi-randomly selected sample, is patently unscientific. However, the results are interesting nonetheless. (A few words about the sample: most respondents were not born in the US but were living here, the age range was from young adults to retirees, most had begun their trip in either New York City or Boston, and most had gone to the Falls on a bus tour.)

Here is a summary of the feedback:

Was it worth visiting?
A resounding yes. Most respondents acknowledged that the eight hour trip from New York City was long, but surprisingly few seemed to mind. Several people expressed how much they enjoyed seeing the countryside and getting a sense of the "real" United States. Those who included a visit to Niagara Falls as part of a tour of Canada were the least likely to complain about the distance. Only one respondent expressed regret that he made the trip. He said he just did not find the falls themselves that impressive and did not think it was worth the long bus trip.

Most recommended attractions?
Hands down the Maid of the Mist boat tour was suggested as the must-do activity. Several people also pointed out that this was the best way to view the falls for those who were not able to go to the Canadian side because of visa re-entry issues. The Cave of the Winds tour, which takes you by elevator to the bottom of the falls, got high marks for those who preferred not to take a boat ride. The helicopter tour also got raves, but only one person in the survey took a helicopter tour. The nighttime illumination of the falls got mixed reviews, with some calling it "stunning", while others found it "tacky". Several people who traveled with children also recommended exploring the town of Niagara Falls, Ontario. It offers typically touristy attractions that are sure to please kids.

How long should you stay?
Almost everyone answered either one or two days. A few people thought only a few hours were sufficient to see the sights, and no one suggested staying more than two days.

When should you go?
This is a little hard to decipher. Not surprisingly most people visited Niagara Falls in the summer. The few who did go in the winter said they were impressed by the falls surrounded by ice, but expressed regret that they could not go on the Maid of the Mist (it stops running in October). In short, it seems like you should not go to Niagara in the winter unless you are prepared for the cold. A few also recommended going in the fall to enjoy the foliage in Upstate New York along the way.

Bottom Line: Most people sampled in this informal survey thought Niagara Falls was a great weekend getaway and a good place to take visitors from abroad. If possible, include a stop in Niagara Falls on a visit to Toronto for a great long weekend trip from New York or Boston. Chances are you will not be disappointed in a trip to Niagara Falls if you go when you are prepared for the weather, do not stay more than two days, and do not have high expectations of the attractions outside of those related to the falls. Read More..

Bunaken The Snorkling Spot In North Sulawesi..

The total area of the Bunaken National Marine Park is 89 065 ha and includes the five islands of Bunaken, Siladen, Manado Tua, Montehage and Nain, as well as parts of the coastal area of North Sulawesi mainland. There are more than 40 dive sites around the islands and along Manado Bay.

Bunaken
Vertical walls, reef sharks, turtles, Pygmy sea horses and many surprises!
The eastern side of Bunaken Island offers superb wall diving and excellent snorkelling. The vertical wall has many cracks and small caves and is covered with soft and hard corals, gorgonians and huge sponges. Fishes are so abundant that it is impossible to list all the species found here.

Some examples are: barracudas, triggerfishes, parrotfishes, surgeonfishes, unicornfishes, wrasses, drummers, butterflyfishes, trumpetfish, trevallys, groupers, snappers, sweetlips, angelfishes, needlefishes and batfishes. Possible encounters include turtles, whitetip and blacktip reef sharks bumphead parrotfish, napoleon wrasse, eagle rays and blue-spotted stingrays The shallows are unbelievably colourful and full of life. Excellent spot for night dives, too
What has been said about diving on the east side of Bunaken (Timur):

"This is truly breathtaking, an incredible dive any time of day; but dived early morning or late afternoon, when the light begins to die and the fish start feeding in earnest, Timur is the diving equivalent of a religious experience. ...
There is more variety on this site, given the right conditions, than I have seen anywhere else in Indonesia. If it's in the fish guidebook, it's on this reef - and it would truly take a whole book to recite the species spotted on even a single dive.
Whatever you do and however you dive it, don't miss this spot. If you could do only one dive in North Sulawesi, this would have to be it."
(The dive sites of Indonesia, Guy Buckles, 1995)

The southern side of the island has beautiful coral slopes in a deep calm bay, as well as vertical winding walls with stronger currents. This side of the island has a high diversity of fishes, corals and sponges, and good spots for snorkelling.
There are huge schools of fusiliers, pyramid butterflyfishes, bannerfishes and damselfishes. Other species you might bump into are reef sharks, napoleon wrasses, hawksbill and green turtles, great barracudas, eagle rays, snappers, scorpionfishes and leaf fishes. Invertebrates include a variety of differently shaped hard corals, black corals, gorgonians, giant barrel sponges, nudibranchs and giant clams.

The dive sites on the western and northern sides of Bunaken are vertical walls abundant with reef fishes, sharks, lobsters, whip corals and giant gorgonians with tiny Pygmy sea horses. You might also see large emperors, red snappers, groupers, dogtooth tuna, eagle rays, giant trevally, turtles and barracudas. Even manta rays, mola mola, hammerhead sharks and whalesharks have been seen around Bunaken. Read More..

The Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, the so called “Lost City of the Incas”, has become a classic “see before you die” sight since it was rediscovered at the beginning of the 20th century by the American explorer Hiram Bingham. It is an unforgettable place – a set of excellently preserved Inca ruins perched on top of a mountain in the middle of the Peruvian Andes.

Machu Picchu is visited by almost a million people every year, and though the site is accessible by bus from the local town of Aguas Calientes, many people choose to trek the Inca Trail to get there. If Machu Picchu is one of the most famous historical sights in the world, the classic Inca Trail is one of the most famous treks; a four-day walk following an ancient Inca roadway and passing through a number of other Inca ruins before your first mesmerising glimpse of Machu Picchu from the ‘Gateway of the Sun’.

Sound exciting? It can be the trip of a lifetime, but if you are considering the trek to Machu Picchu, here are four things to be aware of…

Book ahead

In recent years, the Peruvian government has imposed tight restrictions on Inca trail treks in an attempt to lessen damage and erosion of the route and ease overcrowding. Only five hundred people (including porters and guides) are allowed to begin the trail each day, and you are required to book a permit to walk there. This means you typically need to book a place several months in advance, especially if you intend to trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in peak season (between June and August.)

Get in shape

While it is only a four-day trek, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is quite physically demanding, with high altitude passes and long days of hard walking. You don’t need to be a hugely experienced trekker to walk the Inca Trail, but some trekking experience and a decent general level of fitness are recommended.

When they try and trek the Inca Trail, far too many travellers fly straight in to Cusco from Lima and immediately start the trail. This can be a serious mistake, as Cusco itself is at over 3000m, and the trail itself goes even higher. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to acclimatise to the altitude. If you are flying straight into Cusco, it is a good idea to spend a little time at a lower altitude to give your body a chance to adjust, perhaps by taking a tour of the Sacred Valley before your Inca Trail trek.

Take the right equipment

Any reputable tour company will be able to provide you with a list of equipment, and some may even offer to rent equipment to you. As a bare minimum, you need some broken in hiking boots (trainers are not recommended!), several layers of warm clothing, a waterproof jacket or poncho, water bottle, good quality sleeping bag, and daytime trekking clothes. You may also want to take a pair of trekking poles – the stone staircases on the Inca Trail can be hard work on your knees!

Tip the porters

When you trek the Inca Trail, it is likely that most, if not all, of the camping and cooking equipment will be carried by local porters (pack animals are now banned from the trail). The treatment of the porters varies from company to company – some are well paid and well looked after, while others are definitely not. That’s another reason to go with a reputable company, who are committed to responsible tourism and have an established policies and practices regarding porter care.

Interact with your porter as much as possible (bringing some coca leaves as gifts is a good way to show your appreciation), and keep an eye on how the porters are treated – make a complaint after the trip if you feel that they have been hard done by.

Make sure that you bring some money to tip the porters at the end of your Inca Trail trek. The amount that you should tip varies with the quality of service, of course, but it is generally recommended that you bring between £25 - £35 in dollars or soles to cover the tips for your cook, guide and personal porter.

About the Author
Jude Limburn Turner is the Marketing Manager for Mountain Kingdoms, an adventure tour company who have run Inca Trail treks for many years. They now offer treks and tours worldwide, including destinations in North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Central and South East Asia.

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Egypt and Jordan

7 Wonders of the World… You may not name all of them but probably you know that most of them were destroyed by earthquake, fire, or other causes since Herodotus formulated his list in mid 5th century BC. Today you may only see 2 monuments: the remains of the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus in Turkey and the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt, the only one fully standing. Although Egypt has many to offer still thousands of tourists visit Egypt every year to see the Great Pyramid. In 2001 a corporation started an initiative to choose the New 7 Wonders of the World. The results were announced in 2007 and one more monument in the Middle East was selected as one of the new wonders: Petra in Jordan. Since then Jordan became a booming tourism destination. Although Egypt was not happy with the results still Petra’s selection increased the tourist flow to the region, and both Jordan and Egypt benefited from this traffic. The frequency and the short duration of the flights between these countries motivate North American travelers to visit both countries once they take the long flight to the Middle East. You’ll need at most 13 days to tour Egypt and Jordan; you can cover the major highlights and return home with mystical memories of the new and old wonders of the world.

It is suggested to begin with Cairo, the bustling city of North Africa. Don’t plan to begin touring on your arrival day, try to rest, recover from jet lag and keep your energy for the next day. Next morning why don’t you start with the famous Giza Pyramids? If you have booked a private tour in Egypt, probably you’ll meet your guide at your hotel and you’ll drive to Giza Plateau, located in the west bank of Nile, facing Cairo. Cheops, Chepren and Mycerinus are the three pyramids you will see in this plateau and their guardian Sphinx, the lion body human head mythical statue. If you are planning to enter the Great Pyramid you’ll need to arrive the gate early as the number of visitors is limited with 150. After Pyramids, visit the second highlight, the world famous Egyptian Museum. The museum that houses the largest Egyptian collection with more than 250.000 antiques extending over the past 5000 years. The famous Tut-Ankh-Amon collection is one of the most splendid parts of the museum. In the museum you may purchase additional ticket to visit the Mummy Room (cameras not allowed).

Your second day should begin early with a flight to Aswan or Luxor to join the Nile Cruise. You may not be really a “cruise type” but in Egypt, Nile cruise is the best way to visit Luxor, Aswan and other sights in between. If you begin from Aswan probably you’ll want to take the expensive excursion to Abu Simbel. It is a half day excursion but a must-see sight in Egypt. Flights to Abu Simbel fly early morning from Aswan and return by noon allowing ample time for cruise guests to board their ship. In Abu Simbel you’ll see the magnificent temples of Ramses II and Nefertiti.

Then you can join your Nile cruise ship where you’ll spend you next 5 days. Most cruise excursions will take you to Aswan Dam, to the Philae Temple and to a short sail by felluca’s, traditional sail boats to view the Agha Khan Mausoleum which is currently closed to visitors. On the way to Luxor ship will stop in Kom Ombo and Edfu. The Kom Ombo Temple was built in Ptolemaic Roman era for the worship of god Haroeris and Sobek, the crocodile god. Edfu Temple, located in the west bank of Nile, is dedicated to god Horus, the falcon god. This temple is the second largest temple after Karnak and its distinctive character comes from its huge structure that blends Greek and Pharaonic architecture. At the end of 3rd day on boat you will arrive Luxor, the greatest open air museum in the world.

Luxor tours begin with the Valley of Kings and Queens. Some of the most important tombs in the valley are the tombs of Tut-Ankh-Amon, Ramses III, Set I (Kings), and Nefertiti (Queen). Here you can also see the colossi of Memnon, Necropolis of Thebes and the temple of Queen Hatshepsut, established by the only woman who ruled Egypt. Three terraces of the temple are impressive. Then you’ll cross the river to the eastern bank of Nile to see the temple of Karnak and Luxor. Luxor temple was built for the worship of god Amon Ra. Karnak temples includes several temples and it begins with the spectacular avenue of Rams. Next morning you’ll disembark and may spend the day in Luxor to visit the Luxor museum or you can return Cairo via flight or train.

For a complete Cairo experience you must visit the Khan Khalili Bazaar, the most famous bazaar of Egypt built in 14th century. The market has a medieval atmosphere and is famous for its unusual, typically oriental souvenirs, and handmade crafts.

At the end of your 7 night in Egypt you’ve already covered the most important highlights. On 8th day you can stay in Cairo to visit Memphis and Sakkara or you can take a daily tour to Alexandria, second biggest city and the largest port of Egypt. The city was built by the order of Alexander the Great in 332 B.C and became the capital city of his reign in Egypt. Here you should visit the Pompay Pillar, Catacomb, Montazah Garden, National Museum and the Alexandria Library. You may stay a few more days in Cairo to visit the old Cairo, mosques, citadel etc. But if you have limited time I suggest you to take the early flight next day to Amman, Jordan.

Amman, the modern and ancient capital of Jordan, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the World. Although Amman is the first step to visit Petra, Dead Sea or Wadi Rum still it is advised to begin your journey from Amman where you can visit the ancient Citadel, the Archaeological Museum and the Roman Amphitheatre.

Next day you can drive along the King’s Highway, the ancient Silk Road, to Madaba that is famous with its Byzantine mosaics. In the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George you can see the earliest surviving original map of the Holy land in a mosaic floor dating to 560 A.D. Ten kilometres west of Madaba is the holly district of Mount Nebo, known as the site of the tomb of Moses. Here you can enjoy the spectacular view across the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea, even the spires of the churches of Jerusalem. Leaving Mount Nebo behind you are heading to Dead Sea, to the lowest point on earth, and the world's richest source of mineral salts. It's called the Dead Sea because nothing lives in it. Its salt content is six times that of most oceans. Plants or fish can not survive in the salty water but humans can float in the Dead Sea which makes swimming here a truly unforgettable experience. After this unique experience you are ready to head to Petra, but before Petra you have to visit Kerak, the city famous with the12th century hilltop fortress including galleries, towers, chapels, and ramparts that vividly recall the age of the Crusaders. Arrive Petra and enjoy a deep sleep as you’ll need your energy for the Indiana Jones adventure of the next day.

Red Rose City Petra, built by the Nabeteans who settled Jordan 2000 years ago, impresses travelers from all over the world with its desert rock carved monumental tombs, palaces, temples and the treasury. You’ll need to hike the 1.2 km canyon to reach the magnificent treasury. At the end of the fissure passage widens and you catch a glimpse of the astonishing monument that dominates Petra, El Khazneh (The Treasury). The rock face in which it is carved is sheltered from winds and rain so the Khazneh is known as the best preserved of all the monuments. On the way back you can enjoy the horse ride for a complete Petra adventure.

It is the 12th day of your journey, knowing you are approaching the end, you may prefer to slow down little bit. If so, I’d suggest you to head to sunny Aqaba, the red sea resort area where you can enjoy the sunshine and sea on your last day. But before going to Aqaba, the last must-see is the Wadi Rum, also known as Valley of the Moon; tourists explore the area in 4 X 4 vehicles. The landscape of Wadi Rum, with its immensity, colour and awe-inspiring shapes, creates an almost supernatural atmosphere. It was the setting for the film Lawrence of Arabia as most of our guests would recall. Passing by the Bedouin tents you will drive south to Aqaba, the red sea resort area where you can lie on the beach, close your eyes and spend a few moments to memorize the unforgettable mystical experiences you had in 12 days. The next day your final journey will be to Amman to board your flight back home.

About the Author
Nil Aykut is the Marketing Manager of Anatolia Travels. Anatolia Travels offer private and escorted tours to Turkey, Greece Egypt , Jordan & Morocco. More information at http://www.anatoliatravels.com
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Roman Colosseum

The colosseum, also known as the Coliseum, is a large oval stadium located in the center of Rome. It is one of the largest structures ever built during the Roman Empire, and it is considered as one of the great achievement of Roman architecture.

It was constructed at around 70 AD spearheaded by the Roman emperor Vespasian. It was only completed during the reign of Emperor Titus. The Colosseum was generally used for public events such as gladiator matches. These matches are comprised of gladiators who fought against other gladiators, criminals or wild animals. Other events held at the colosseum included mock sea battles, executions and animal hunts. During the medieval era, the use of the colosseum for public events ceased. Instead, it served such uses as dwellings, workshops and fortresses.

The colosseum condition has worsened due to natural disasters such as earthquakes. There have also been reports of stone-robbers taking away bits and pieces of the structure. However, it is still one of the most highly recognizable symbols of Ancient Rome. It is also a very popular tourist attraction to this day.

Aside from the amphitheatre, which played host to the gladiator matches back in the day, there are other attractions in the surrounding area. One such attraction is the remains of the Ludus Magnus, which is also known as The Great Gladiatorial Training School. As implied from the name, it was used as a training ground for the gladiators. Most of the area has been restored, such as the triangular fountains located within.

Other nearby attractions include the Armamentarium, which was an armory used to store weapons and defenses, the Summum Choragium, which was used to store machinery, the Sanitarium, which was used as place to treat wounded gladiators and the Spolarium, which was used to dispose of the dead gladiators and their various equipment.

The Colosseum is used today for religious purposes. Some Roman Catholic ceremonies, such as those involving Pope John Paul II, were hosted there. There are crosses littered in various areas surrounding the arena. During Good Fridays, the Pope typically leads a procession called the Stations of the Cross.

The Colosseum walls have large amounts of flora. There have been more than 600 different flora species discovered there. Previous attempts to remove the flora, due to concerns regarding damage to the architecture, have largely been unsuccessful as much of the flora eventually returned.

Common sights near the surrounding area of the Colosseum are men garbed in the traditional costume of the ancient gladiators. There are plenty of souvenir shops along the way as people are usually milling about from a leisurely stroll.

Today, the Colosseum is a highly visible structure due to its inclusion in a variety of media forms. Some movies, such as Gladiator or Jumper, use the Colosseum as a site for some of its scenes. Computer technology was used to restore the Colosseum to an approximation of its original state. The term colosseum is used for other entertainment facilities such as theatres and halls.

About the Author
For accommodation in Rome please visit: RomeHotels.me.uk. For more options HotelRome.me.uk | Rome Hotels Read More..