Travel & TourisnMay 31, 2008 6:53 am

France:World’s Most Popular Tourist Destination

Introduction

It is nigh impossible not to like France because the late French president Charles de Gaulle once remarked that how could one describe a country which has 365 kinds of cheese? There are many attractions in this deeply compelling and multifaceted land that draw millions of visitors back year after year.France’s  fairnesses are manifest, whether it is the chic boulevards of Paris, the sparkling ski slopes of the Alps, sunlit vineyards and sun-baked beaches, a dusty game of boules, or coffee and croissants in an undiscovered place.A tour of the majestic chateaux of the Loire, the glamorous jet-set lifestyle of the Mediterranean, or a relaxing picnic in Provence, where the air is fragrant with wild herbs and lavender? France, the largest country in Europe, is bordered to the north by the English Channel , the northeast by Belgium and Luxembourg, the east by Germany, Switzerland and Italy, the south by the Mediterranean with Monaco as a coastal enclave between Nice and the Italian frontier , the southwest by Spain and Andorra, and the west by the Atlantic Ocean.

Where to Go What to see in France

As the  most popular tourist place in the world, France manages to be all things to all people. For city slickers, Paris is one of the world’s truly great cities, with a myriad of attractions and diverse eating and drinking experiences. Few major tourist attractions of France lie in Paris, the fashion capital of the world, the trendsetter and a city of unparalleled chic. Also known as the City of Lights, Paris is a patron of the arts and artists.Some major attractions are :
  • The Grand Louvre
  • Notre Dame Cathedral
  • Eiffel Tower
  • Gustave Alexandre Eiffel
  • Musee d’Orsay
  • Rodin Museum
  • Centre Georges Pompidou
  • Musée Picasso Museum
  • The Palace at Versailles.

 

France Activities

France’s major sports activities are : Skiing,Hiking,Cycling,Horse riding,Golf,Spectator sports,Traditional sports&Traditional boules also called pétanque and Wine tours.

France Country & Tourist Information:

  • Location:Western Europe.
  • Area:545,630 sq km (339,054 sq miles) (not including overseas territories).
  • Population:60.9 million (2006 estimate).
  • Population Density:111 per sq km.
  • Capital:Paris.Population: 12.7 million (2.2 million in the city; 10.5 million in the suburbs) (2006).
  • Government:Republic since 1792.
  • Language:French is the official language, but there are many regional dialects. Basque Breton
  • Religion:Approximately 83% Roman Catholic; Protestant 2%; Muslim 5%; Jewish 1%; unaffiliated 9%.
  • Time:GMT + 1 (GMT + 2 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).
  • Electricity:220 volts AC, 50Hz. Two-pin plugs are widely used.
  • Head of Government:Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin since May 2005.
  • Head of State:President Jacques Chirac since 1995.
  • Telephone:Country code: 33.
  • Internet:Public access is available at Internet cafes in most cities.
  • Media:France enjoys a free press and has more than 100 daily newspapers.
  • Post:Stamps can be purchased at post offices and tabacs.
  • Post office hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1900, Sat 0900-1200.
  • Radio: Radio France Internationale (RFI) , Europe 1 , RTL

France Weather:

A temperate climate in the north; northeastern areas have a more continental climate with hot  summers and cold winters. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year with some snowfall in winter. The Jura Mountains have an alpine climate ,Lorraine, sheltered by bordering hills, has a relatively mild climate. Mediterranean climate in the south; mountains are cool with heavy snow in winter.European clothing is required, according to season. Light  clothing for summer in all areas and waterproof winter gear for the mountains all year round. In winter evenings ,the Mediterranean resorts often require a sweater or jacket  .

France Food & Dining

With the exception of China, France  provide a more varied and developed cuisine than any other country. Almost all restaurants offer two types of meal: à la carte and le.

  •  National specialties: Ratatouille niçoise, the stew of courgettes, tomatoes and aubergines. In the north of France fish and shellfish are the star features in menus. Alsace and Lorraine are the lands of choucroute  and kugelhof ,a special cake, quiche lorraine and tarte flambée . Lyon , the heartland of French cuisine, though the food is often more rich than elaborate. A specialty of this area is quenelles de brochet ,pounded pike formed into sausage shapes and usually served with a rich crayfish sauce. Desserts include these , soufflé grand-marnier; oeufs à la neige ,meringues floating on custard; mille feuilles ,layers of flaky pastry and custard cream; ganache ,the chocolate cream biscuit and fruit tarts and flans.
  • National drinks:Wine is the most popular alcoholic drink in France, and the choice changes according to region.Star French apéritifs are Pastis, Ricard or Pernod. The region of Nord Pas de Calais and Picardy brews beer and cider, Alsace is said to brew the best beer in France, coffee is always served after the meal, and will always be black, in small cups, unless a café au lait  is requested. Brandies  like Armagnac and Cognac and liqueurs  like Chartreuse and Genepi are also available.
  • Nightlife:In major cities such as Paris, Lyon or Marseille, there are many nightclubs which  are sometimes free of charge, but drinks are likely to be more expensive.

France Visa Information
  •   Passports:Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except the EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
  •   Visas: Not required by all nationals of countries  for the following durations:(a) nationals of EU countries for an unlimited period;(b) nationals of Australia, Canada and the USA for stays of up to 90 days.
                                       

                                                                                            
                                                 

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Travel & TourisnMay 28, 2008 6:19 am

Niagara Falls, Canada

Niagara Falls, Canada provides a vast array of year-round activities for your whole family. Beautifully-maintained biking and walking trails line the world-famous Niagara gorge while many golf courses, ball diamonds, playing fields, swimming pools and rinks combine local citizens and contribute to a strong sense of community.

 A Short History of Niagara Falls

Most of the early settled people in Niagara Falls were United Empire Loyalists. Arriving here just before and after the close of the American Revolution, their steadfast support of the British during that epochal event had brought them persecution and privation. Fleeing their homes in the former American colonies, they started their lives over again in various areas of what is now Canada, including the west bank of the Niagara River. The Lundy, Bender and McMicking families were among the Loyalists who became some of Niagara Falls’ earliest inhabitants.In 1848, the first bridge opened across the Niagara River. Designed as a suspension bridge for carriages and pedestrians, it was located where the Whirlpool Rapids Bridge is today. The new bridge was opened in 1855.By then, a small village named Elgin had grown up in the area around present-day lower Bridge Street. Elgin was a major divisional point on the Great Western Railway and was also at the Canadian end of an international bridge crossing. Consequently, it grew quite rapidly. In 1856,  enlarged town took the name Clifton.In 1881, Clifton changed its name to the Town of Niagara Falls. Not to be outdone, the following year Drummondville became the Village of Niagara Falls. Niagara Falls’ area and population increased dramatically in 1963 when the adjacent Township of Stamford amalgamated with the city. With the advent of regional government in 1970, Chippawa, Willoughby Township and a small portion of Crowland Township also became part of Niagara Falls.

Facts About Niagara Falls

The Falls at Niagara are about 12,000 years old. Falls were formed when melting glaciers formed massive fresh-water lakes one of which (Lake Erie) ran downhill toward another (Lake Ontario). The rushing waters carved out a river in their descent and at one point passed over a steep cliff like formation (the Niagara escarpment).Currently, Niagara Falls wears its way back another approximately 1 foot/year.The Niagara River flows at approximately 35 miles/hour (56.3 kilometers/hour).There are actually two waterfalls in Niagara, the American Falls and the Canadian Horseshoe Falls.The Horseshoe Falls are 180 feet (57 meters) high Man-made attractions of Niagara Falls include Maid of the Mist, Table Rock Scenic Tunnels, Spanish Aero Car, Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum, Marineland, Casino Niagara, IMAX Theatre, and the new Butterfly Conservatory.In 1959, the face of Niagara was changed when Louis Tussaud’s English Wax Museum was opened.The Minolta Tower rises 325 feet above the Horseshoe Falls.Skylon Tower rises 775 feet above the Falls.
 
In 1960, Roger Woodward was the boy who had survived a descent over the Falls after a boating accident above the Falls.Hydro Electricity generated in Niagara Falls at the Sir Adam Beck 1 and Sir Adam Beck 2 power stations from redirected waterflow serves the electrical needs of Southern Ontario and Western New York.Annie Taylor "Queen of the Mist" , a school teacher from Bay City Michigan was first person to travel over the Falls in a barrel on October 24, 1901.Niagara Falls Ontario Canada is known as the Honeymoon Capital of the world.The word Niagara comes from the word "onguiaahra" which means "a thundering noise".Until 1886, when the Statue of Liberty was erected, the Falls at Niagara were the symbol of America and the New World. Visitors from all over the world targeted Niagara as a must-see during a visit to North America. Water is redirected from traveling over the Falls in order to drive large hydro-electric turbines that produce electricity for Southern Ontario and Western New York State.One of the bloodiest battles of the War of 1812 took place on July 25, 1814 at Lundy’s Lane in Niagara Falls, Ontario… A total of 7500 Americans and Canadians fought for six hours. At the end, 1,000 soldiers lay dead or wounded.

 

 

 source:http://www.city.niagarafalls.on.ca 

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Travel & TourisnMay 24, 2008 8:22 am

A Visit To Russia

Introduction & History: A visit to Russia today is an encounter with an undiscovered land.  One of the most notable features of present day Russia is a renewed celebration of the wealth of its past and its potential for the future. Throwing off the blanket of communist uniformity, Russia today is a nation of enormous diversity and tremendous vitality. It is as if the cultural traditions of a century ago have re-awakened with a newfound strength - ancient cathedrals are being rebuilt and restored, colorful markets hum with activity once again and literature and the arts are quickly regaining the creative renown they enjoyed decades ago. A new Russia is now in full bloom.For most westerners,Russia is associated with its European cities–Moscow, St. Petersburg and Murmansk. Russia is the largest country on earth, with enormous tracts of land that have been opened to travellers only in the last few years.Just as Russia’s rich cultural heritage has once more come to life, its natural heritage too is a new country waiting to be discovered.With the dissolution of the Soviet Union there has been an enormous resurgence of interest in Russia’s pre-Soviet past, as well as a great deal of debate and reconsideration of the Soviet era itself.

The Russia Gazeteer:The Russian Federation covers 1/8th of the earth’s surface (6,592,812 sq. miles/ 17,075,400 sq. km.) from Europe to Asia. Even after the dissolution of the Soviet Empire, Russia is easily the worlds largest country. Vast plains cover most of Russia’s territory. Mountain ranges are found mostly in the eastern and southern regions, with the Ural Mountains constituting a natural backbone from north to south seperating European and Asian Russia.The country has a tremendous wealth of natural resources, producing 17% of the world’s crude oil, 25-30% of its natural gas, and 10-20% of all non-ferrous, rare and noble metals mined across the globe.Most of Russia’s territory is located in the temperate belt, though the range of climates and habitats spans from Arctic tundra and forest tundra to forests, forest-steppes and semi-deserts. Average January temperatures range from 0 to minus 5 degrees Centigrade in Western European Russia to minus 40-50 degrees Centigrade in Eastern Yakutia. Average July temperatures range from 1 degree Centigrade on the northern Siberian coast to 25 degrees Centigrade in Russia’s Cis-Caspian lowlands. Check the current four-day weather forecasts for Moscow and St. Petersburg.Russia has the world’s fifth largest population (148.8 million people) after China, India, the United States and Indonesia. It contains some 130 nations and ethnic groups including Russians, Tartars, Ukrainians, Chuvashs, Jews, Bashkirs, Byelorussians and Mordovians.Russia has the world’s fifth largest population (148.8 million people) after China, India, the United States and Indonesia.

Getting To & Around Russia:There are many ways to get to Russia. 

  • By Air:Daily service to Moscow can be found fom all major European capitals, New York, as well as Hong Kong and other Asian cities.
  • By Rail:Major gateways to European Russia are Helsinki, Warsaw, Prague and Budapest.Other trains run from Amsterdam, Athens, Berlin, Brussels, Bucharest, Frankfort, Paris, Riga, Talinn, Helsinki, Venice, Vilnius, and Warsaw to Moscow, or from Berlin and Brussels to St. Petersburg.To Siberia, be sure to experience the Trans-Siberian Railway which runs in either direction between European and Asian Russia.
  • By Bus:Bus service can be found from Talinn Estonia, Helsinki Finland, and from Kirkenes Norway way above the Arctic Circle to Murmansk.
  • By Car:A great way to see the country. Foreigners can legally drive on almost all of Russia’s roads and highways.
Russian Visa Requirements:In order to obtain a visa for a business/tourist trip to Russia, the following paperwork should be submitted.
  • Completed visa application form (one per person)
  • Copy of the passport pages
  • Three (3) standard passport-size pictures of the applicant
  • For business visas: Invitation from a duly registered Russian organization.
  • For tourist visas: copy of a telex/fax message from the Russian tour operator with appropriate reference and confirmation numbers that can be obtained through your local travel agency.The receiving organization must be duly registered as a tourist company in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, Moscow and be assigned a special index. That index and a tour reference number must be indicated in the confirmation.
Russian Art &  Architecture.From icons and onion domes to suprematism and the Stalin baroque, Russian art and architecture seems to many visitors to Russia to be a rather baffling array of exotic forms and alien sensibilities. Without any sense of the rich tradition of Russian culture, an appreciation of the country’s enormous artistic wealth becomes a game of historical anecdote–"the church where so-and-so took refuge from what’s-his-name"–or a meaningless collection of aesthetic baubles–"I like the blue domes the best."

Icons:The tradition of icon painting was inherited by the Russians from Byzantium, where it began as an offshoot of the mosaic and fresco tradition of early Byzantine churches. During the 8th and 9th centuries, the iconoclasm controversy in the Orthodox church called into question whether religious images were a legitimate practice or sacrilegious idolatry. Although the use of images wasn’t banned, it did prompt a thorough appreciation of the difference between art intended to depict reality and art designed for spiritual contemplation. That difference is one of the reasons that the artistic style of icons can seem so invariant. Certain kinds of balance and harmony became established as reflections of divinity, and as such they invited careful reproduction and subtle refinement rather than striking novelty.

The Great Experiment:The rising influence of European culture in Russia during the 17th and 18th centuries brought Russian artwork closer to the familiar traditions of western painting. It wasn’t until the end of the 19th century that the next great body of uniquely Russian artistic styles arose, having developed in conjunction with liberal forces of social reform. This modern movement took many different directions almost from its inception, and it would be impossible to describe all of them. However, even a very general acquaintance with their common ideas and interests makes their work much more accessible. From the start, the modern art movement was concerned with breaking away from the classical tradition and creating a new kind of art that was intimately engaged with the daily life of Russian society. It developed a renewed interest in traditional Russian art forms, including both decorative folk art and, of course, icon painting.

Architecture:For most of its history, Russian architecture has been predominantly religious. Churches were for centuries the only buildings to be constructed of stone, and today they are almost the only buildings that remain from its ancient past. The basic elements of Russian church design emerged fairly early, around the eleventh century. The plan is generally that of a Greek cross (all four arms are equal), and the walls are high and relatively free of openings. Sharply-sloped roofs (tent roofs) and a multitude of domes cover the structure. The characteristic onion dome first appeared in Novgorod on the Cathedral of Sancta Sophia, in the eleventh century. On the interior, the primary feature is the iconostasis, an altar screen on which the church’s icons are mounted in a hierarchical fashion.The centers of medieval church architecture followed the shifting dominance of old Russia’s cities–from Kiev to Novgorod and Pskov, and, from the end of the 15th century, Moscow.

Russia Outdoors:It would be easy to spend several decades getting to know Russia’s great cities alone, but visitors should know that there is far more to do in today’s Russia. That much of the country consists of spectacular and nearly virgin terrain makes Russia an adventuresome traveller’s dream. In the last few years, the Russian government has opened up enormous areas that for decades have been closed to virtually all human visitation. For the truly intrepid, Russia presents a lifetime’s worth of unexplored territory. For those whose spirit of adventure is leavened by a taste for relaxation, there are plenty of places to visit that are within easy striking distance of a comfy hotel, a river cruise boat, or even a major city. This page provides only a brief glimpse of the possibilities that now exist.

Mountaineering and Alpine Skiing:Russia possesses a number of great mountain ranges, some of which are barely known in the west. The Caucasus, Altai, Sayan, and Stanovoy mountains all offer fantastic mountain climbing, as do some of the peaks along the Kamchatka peninsula. Alpine skiing facilities are thus far rather limited in Russia, although they should improve rapidly in the next several years. The best facilities are to be found in the western Caucasus, around Dombay.

Hiking, Trekking, Hunting and Fishing: Hunting and fishing in Russia are activies apt to astound the average sportsman from the West. With so much territory having been closed to outsiders for decades, the rivers and mountains of Russia are still abundant with game. The country has begun to experience problems with illegal hunting and fishing expeditions in protected areas. However, there are many reputable companies that lead expeditions to the country’s legislated game preserves. Particularly in the Far East, opportunities for salmon fishing and bear hunting are unmatched anywhere else on earth.

 

source:http://www.geographia.com

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Travel & TourisnMay 21, 2008 9:56 am

Switzerland Tour

General Information:Switzerland is a dream tour destination for all. Its appearance, its beauty and charm though to be explored during a Switzerland Tour; still some degree of familiarity has to be attained to experience the zenith of enjoyment. In the whole of Western Europe, which is thronged by the travellers during the vacations, Switzerland attracts the maximum tourists every year.There are very few places that can equal the cleanliness and orderliness prevalent in Switzerland.something about Switzerland…
  • Official Name: Swiss Confederation.
  • Capital: Bern.
  • Population: 7,262,372.
  • Languages: German, French, Italian, Romansh (Latin-based language) and English.
  • Religions: Christian (Roman Catholic, Protestant).
  • Time Zone: 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (+1 GMT). Daylight Saving Time is observed from the last Sunday of March to the last Sunday of October.
  • Voltage Requirements: 220 volts.
  • Telephone Codes: Country Code, 41.
  • Passport/Visa Requirements: Passports required for Australian, Canadian, U.K. and U.S. citizens. Reconfirm travel document requirements with your carrier before departure

History ,Culture and Geography: Switzerland was formed in the year 1291 when the three cantons of Schwyz, Uri and Unterwalden joined together for the common purpose of protecting their borders. Switzerland is one of the oldest democracies in the world.Switzerland is an amalgamation of four cultures: French, Italian, Swiss-German and Romansh. On the basis of Geography, Switzerland can be divided into three seperate zones, each running in an east-west direction. In the north near France are the hilly and forested Jura; The central areas of Switzerland is a plateau region with forest areas, agricultural farmland, cities and lakes; and the south is covered entirely by the high Alps mountain system.

Weather: The climate or weather conditions of a country determine the best tourist season. A tourist planning for a Switzerland Tour should know the climatic conditions that prevail during all round the year to grab the best possible time to visit Switzerland.Though the highest peaks of the Alps receive a high snowfall the year-round (it’s rare July-September, however), yet Switzerland has a cool and cozy climate throughout the year. The best seasons looking to the weather conditions are Spring, summer and autumn.

Cuisine&Specialities: Switzerland is known for its cuisine the world over. The Switzerland cuisine is famous for the culinary dishes cooked with a raw and traditional touch. Fortunately in the whole of Western Europe, which is thronged by the travellers during the vacations, Switzerland has the best hygienic and cheap food outlets throughout the country.Unlike other cuisines, the Swiss cuisine is not known for its delicacy - but its unusual combination of meat-potatoes-and-cheese admired by the Swiss residents. The most popular and demanded ones are the yummy sauces made to supplement the vegetables and great desserts. Swiss people enjoy good food. Some favourite are.. Fondue, a concoction of Gruyère and Vacherin cheese which is melted and mixed with a little garlic, flour, kirsch and white wine, Other cheese delicacies are Emmental and Tête de Moine. Papet vaudoir is yet another swiss delicacy made from leeks and potatoes. Pork sausages or salami is very popular in Switzerland and comes in a variety of swiss recipes including Beinwurst, Engadinerwurst, Kalbsleberwurst (calf’s liver pâté), Knackerli, Landjäger and Leberwurst (pâté). Swiss delicacies such as Rösti made from shredded fried potatoes and Fondue Bourguignonne made from cubed meat with various sauces should not be missed.

Cakes and pastries:Swizerland is famous for its cakes and pastries. Especially wonderful is Leckerli. A Basle speciality, Leckerli is spiced honey cake topped with icing sugar or white sugar bear; Fasnachtküchli is a sugar-dusted pastry eaten during Carnival.

Wines:Swiss beer is a very popular drink among the Swiss. Swiss wines are great and are available throughout Switzerland. Popular Swiss spirits made from fruits includes Kirsch, Marc, Pflümli and Williams.

 
Nightlife:Nightclubs and discos with music and dance are common in most of the major towns and resorts. They also serve food sometimes. Cinema halls and theatres are also popular.

Special Events:The special events in Switzerland include The World Snow Festival at Grindelwald, Polo World Cup on Snow at St Moritz, Basle Carnival at Basle, International Motor Show at Geneva, Berne International Jazz Festival, International Dog Sleigh Race, Les Mosses, Allianze Swiss Open (tennis), Bernese Oberland, Montreux Jazz Festival, Swiss Alpine Marathon at Davos, Lucerne Festival etc.

Social Conventions:It is a Swiss custom to gift unwrapped flowers to the hostess when invited for a meal. But red roses should be avoided; Chrysanthemums or white asters must never be given as they are considered to be funeral flowers. Informal wear is widely accepted. There may be a dress code (jackets and ties) in First-class restaurants, hotel dining rooms and important social occasions. Tie a black tie only when specifically mentioned.


Accommodation: A tourist planning for a Switzerland Tour is always inquisitive about the accommodation arrangements available during that Switzerland Tour. Fortunately in the whole of Western Europe, which is thronged by the travellers during the vacations, Switzerland has the best of avenues available regarding the accommodation. Here under we are providing you the information valuable for you while your Switzerland vacation. Switzerland Tourism department is also introducing reasonable and comfortable staying facilities for the tourists visiting Switzerland every year.The major accommodation options for the tourists comprise of Hotels like:5-star (luxury),4-star (first class),3-star (good middle-class),2-star (comfortable),1-star (simple), Chalets and Apartments, Private Clinics, Camping and Youth Hostels.

 
 
 source:http://www.switzerlandtours.net
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Travel & TourisnMay 19, 2008 6:45 am

A tour to Mombasa City( Kenya )

Mombasa has a long, rich history dating back over 1500 years when it started as a trading port. The Portugese explorer, Vasco Da Gama, landed here in 1498 and established a Portugese colony at the coast. Arabs from Oman later took over the city, leaving their mark on the region. Mombasa has a vibrant Swahili culture. There are a range of hotels to the north and south of Mombasa, known as the North and South coast respectively.Mombasa has a long, rich history dating back over 1500 years when it started as a trading port.The Portugese explorer, Vasco Da Gama, landed here in 1498 and established a Portugese colony at the coast. Arabs from Oman later took over the city, leaving their mark on the region.Mombasa has a vibrant Swahili culture. There are a range of hotels to the north and south of Mombasa, known as the North and South coast respectively.

                                                                           Fact File on Mombasa:

  •  Altitude: Sea Level - 100mts: Location: South East Coastline of Kenya.
  •  Access from Nairobi: 500 kms by road &1 hour flight. Airport : Mombasa International Airport
  •  Facilities : 4 lodges and several camp sites
  •  Attractions: Fort Jesus, Mamba Village, Bamburi Nature Trail, Gedi Ruins.
  •  Access: Several international airlines fly to Mombasa from US,Europe and Asia.
Hotels and Beach Resorts in Mombasa: Mombasa Hotels are some of the best in the world, known for their high standards of service and quality. Mostly located on the white sandy beaches along the Kenyan coast, the beach hotels offer many facilities and a range of restaurants on site.

                                   

                                                                         What to see in Mombasa:

  •   Fort Jesus :Fort Jesus is a monumental piece of architecture built in the 16th century by the Portuguese. It has aa museum that displays various artifacts from the era where Mombasa served as a transit point for the slave trade and commodities. Its interior comprises of torture rooms and prison cells where slaves were kept in captivity before being traded. Weapons such as canons, which were used to defend the fort from invading foreigners as well as rioting locals, can be seen both inside and outside of the fort.

 

  • Mamba Village :Situated in Nyali, The Mamba Village is East Africa’s largest crocodile farm with over 10,000 crocodiles. Mamba Village is a very renowned tourist attraction in Mombasa. It combines crocodile farming, conservation, and ecosystem friendly quarry. Other activities within the Mamba Village are camel riding, horse riding and a unique "a la carte" restaurant specialized in game meat e.g. Croco-meat, Ostrich, Zebra, among other delicacies.

  • Bamburi Nature Trail : The largest animal sanctuary in Mombasa, Bamburi Nature Trail boasts of an large variety of animals. A walk around the trail is the ideal way to look at the various animals found within. The trail was a result of an unusual attempt to rehabilitate a giant quarry. There is a large number of bird species, several hippos, crocodiles, antelopes and giant tortoise.

 

  • Mombasa Tusks :The Mombasa Tusks are symbolic representations of entrance into the heart of the Mombasa town. They were built to commemorate the visit of Queen Elizabeth to the town in 1952, lying directly on the path from the port to the town. Ivory was considered to be an exquisite commodity during the time, and in essence the tusks were meant to embrace the Queen and the British Empire into the town and within its social structure.

 

 

 

source : http://www.shoortravel.com

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Travel & TourisnMay 15, 2008 5:21 am

Tours to Darjeeling

Darjeeling is also called ‘Queen of the hills‘. This famous hill station in the state of West Bengal in India is one of the highlights of Indian tourism and West Bengal tourism benefits significantly from the vast number of Indian and international tourists that visits Darjeeling every year. The town is also the capital of the Darjeeling district which is the northernmost district of West Bengal bordering Nepal. The town offers fantastic vacations in summer as well as winter. The view of the Himalayas, particularly the magnificent view of the Kanchenjungha is one of the major attractions of Darjeeling.The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, popularly known as the toy train,has become the symbol of Darjeeling.
Major tourist attractions in Darjeeling:Every nook and corner of Darjeeling fascinates the tourist. The mall, the sloping streets, the beautiful colonial buildings, the pines, temples, monasteries and even the whistling toy train combine to make Darjeeling one of the best hill stations in India. The major tourist spots in Darjeeling are-

  • Himalayan Mountaineering Institute:This institute is an interesting tourist spot offering information about mountain climbing and the history of mountaineering in the region. Mountaineering gears are on display here along with rare pictures related to Mt Everest and other important mountain expeditions. The institute was established in1954 after the successful conquest of Mt Everest, and offers training in mountaineering and rock climbing.
  • Bhutia Busti:This beautiful monastery situated on CR Das road was transferred in 1879 from its original location on the observatory hill. The monastery has an interesting library that contains many old Buddhist texts and scrolls.
  • Observatory Hill:This place is a popular point from where tourists can get a magnificent view of the entire region and Mt Kanchenjunga on a clear, sunny day.
  • Ghoom Monastery:Ghoom is the last destination of the famous Darjeeling toy train. Located six kilomerters from Darjeeling, Ghoom is home to the famous Ghoom monastery at an altitude of 2407 meters. The main attraction of the monastery is the 4.5 meter statue of Maitreya Buddha. 
  • Darjeeling Mall:The mall is one of the most popular places in Darjeeling. It is the center of tourist activities in the town and most of the hotels are clustered around the mall. The mall is also the location of the taxi stands from where tourists can hire taxis to the sites in and around Darjeeling. Many shops including old bookshops and curio stores are a major draw in the mall. The first site to welcome tourists at the mall is the local people offering pony rides and photographers clicking pictures of people as they ride the ponies. People tired from walking can take a break and sit on the many benches placed in the mall and sip the excellent tea sold by local tea vendors. There are many restaurants, cafes, and ice cream parlors around the mall. Early morning and evenings are the best time to stroll in the mall.
There are many other tourist attractions in Darjeeling. These include the famous tiger hill, Dhirdham temple, Lebong race course, and the handicrafts museum. Kalimpong, Takdah, Mirik, Lava, Lolegaon and Sandakphu are some of the important tourist spots near Darjeeling. A tour of Darjeeling offers wonderful opportunities for shopping and many adventure activities.Darjeeling, known as the queen of the Himalayas is situated in the Northern Part of the Indian state of West Bengal. The city is located in the Siwalik Range of the lesser Himalayas and is famous for its tea industry. The city is also famous for the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways which is one among the UNESCO World Heritage List. There are a large number of tourist destinations in Darjeeling making this place a wonderful holidaying experience. To the east, a dull orange sun emerged painting the sky with brilliant strokes of magenta, gold, orange and fuchsia. The snow capped Everest, Kabru, Kanchenjunga, Jannu and other peaks slowly emerge from slumber to start a new day. The sun worshippers gasp at the magnificent sight. As the fog lifts in the slowly penetrating sun, the town gradually comes alive. Amidst brewing of tea, the sing-song Gorkhali which is the local dialect, rises and falls like music.
Fast Facts:
  • Area  :  3149 square km
  • Altitude :   6710 feet
  • Languages :   Hindi, Gorkha, Bengali, Nepali, Tibetian and English
  • Best time to visit :   March to June and again from October to December
  • STD Code  :  0354

Among the major tourist attractions in the Darjeeling city, the most important is the Tiger Hill. It is situated about 2590 m and gives a splendid of the sunrise over Kanchanjunga. Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak is clearly visible from the Tiger Hill. Another important place to visit in the city is the Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park. These parks are located about 10 km from the town and have developed into wonderful picnic spot.The place has a scenic beauty and one can walk down to the Darjeeling Mall from here . Other important places in the city include the Ava Art Gallery, Mall, Batasia loop, Lloyd Botanical Garden, Nightingale park, Darjeeling-Rangit Valley Passenger Cable Car popularly called the ropeway, observatory hills, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and the monasteries to name a few. One can also visit places around Darjeeling like Kalimpong, Kurseong, and Mirik.
Temperature:

  •  Avarage Mean Annual Temperature: Max 14.9°C and Min 8.9°C
  •  Rainfall : 3092 mm
  •  Clothing: light woolen in summer and heavy woolen in winters.

There are a large number of Star, Heritage and Budget hotels which provide wonderful accommodation facilities in the city. The most important among them include the Windamere Hotel, Hotel Ivanhoe, Fortune Hotel Central, Himalayan Resort, Sinclairs, Anand Palace, and Bellevue Hotel to name a few. The city has also a very good transportation network with Bagdogra being the nearest airport and New Jalpaiguri being the nearest railway station. National Highway No. 55 passes through the city connecting Darjeeling with other parts of the Country.

 

 

source : http://www.touristplacesinindia.com
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Travel & TourisnMay 9, 2008 8:11 am

Tours to Mauritius

 About Mauritius:
 
Mauritius, also called the Republic of Mauritius is an island country just off the shore of Africa in the southwest Indian Ocean. It is located about 3,943 kilometers southwest of India and about 900 kilometers east of Madagascar. Apart from the island of Mauritius, the republic also comprises of the islands of St. Brandon, the Agalega Islands and Rodrigues.
                                              

Tourist Destinations in Mauritius:

The tourist destinations in Mauritius are many in number. From islands, beaches, bustling markets, wildlife parks, to amazing people and a vast amount of cultural heritage, Mauritius has a lot to boast about. The tourist destinations in Mauritius make the country a great favorite with travelers all over the world.  The many tourist destinations in Mauritius are spread all over the country and if you want to see it all, you will need to travel within the islands of the country quite a bit. But given the diverse nature of the attractive destinations and the very interesting facts associated with most of it, the traveling becomes a hugely exciting aspect of the visit.

Things to do in Mauritius

:
Mauritius is one of the most beautiful island nations in the world. Situated on the Indian Ocean, Mauritius has some of the most stunning tourist destinations. So naturally there are a lot of things to do in Mauritius. The things to do in Mauritius include sightseeing, golfing, beach excursions, shopping and so on.If you are a nature enthusiast, you will love Mauritius and the things to do in Mauritius. There are quite a few natural reserves, bird and animal sanctuaries, etc in Mauritius. Apart from the natural attractions, a tourist can find a lot of interesting activities here. The things to do in Mauritius are many in number and have always attracted many tourists. 

  Water sports in Mauritius:

Mauritius is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. With the mighty Indian Ocean forming a spectacular backdrop, Mauritius has always attracted many tourists. The island nation also offers many exciting tourist attractions and water sport is one of them. Water sports in Mauritius is one of the most famous attractions of the country. So if you are going to Mauritius, make sure you indulge in a lot of water sports. From scuba diving to underwater explorations, water sports in Mauritius is always a lot of fun. So whether you want to go on an adventurous dive or play alongside friendly dolphins, you can do it all in Mauritius.

Hotels in Mauritius:
 
The hotels in Mauritius play perfect hosts to the many tourists who visit the country every year. The Mauritius hotels are many in number and also are priced conveniently to suit the budgets of a vast group of travelers. From deluxe, luxury hotels to cheap hotels, a tourist will find it all in Mauritius.The luxurious hotels are a kind of tourist attraction by themselves. The grandly built hotels have all facilities from comfortable accommodation to entertainment arenas that make sure the guests have a very enjoyable stay. The budget hotels are also quite efficient and generally provide a good worth for money.The beautiful island nation of Mauritius has some of the most gorgeous hotels in the world. Located on the Indian Ocean, some of the hotels in Mauritius are situated on the beach, just by the beautiful blue sea. A stay in these hotels adds a lot of joy to your entire Mauritius experience.Apart from comfortable living and dining amenities, the hotels in Mauritius also offer many attractive facilities and packages to the guests. Most of the hotels in Mauritius arrange for water sports, land excursions and many other exciting trips.
 
Wedding in Mauritius:
 
The island country of Mauritius in the India Ocean is one of the most picturesque destinations in the world. Mauritius has long been a favorite tourist spot and now it has also gained popularity as a wedding destination. The never ending beaches, the perfect weather and the friendly atmosphere will add an extra dash of romance to your wedding to make it extra memorable. Have a wedding in Mauritius and cherish the memories for a lifetime.A wedding in Mauritius can take place at various venues. A secluded island off the Mauritian coast, on a yacht, underwater and the beach are some of the most unique and popular wedding spots. A good number of couples also choose to hold the ceremony at their hotels also, most of which have elaborate arrangements for weddings.A wedding in Mauritius can be very special and exciting, but the couple must abide by a few rules before tying the knot in Mauritius. For instance, the bride and the groom both need to b above 18 years. The couple also needs to stay in Mauritius for a minimum of 3 days in Mauritius before the wedding day. 10-year-valid passports must also be in possession of the couple.Mauritius is one of the most beautiful places in the world. The crystal, blue water of the Indian Ocean, the soft white beaches, coral reefs, unlimited natural attractions, animal and bird sanctuaries and a host of other picturesque locales make this country a dream destination for your wedding. So have a wedding in Mauritius and bring back with you a lifetime of happiness.

Honeymoon in Mauritius:


A honeymoon signifies all things beautiful and romantic, and Mauritius is almost an embodiment of that! Honeymoons in Mauritius are very popular nowadays and many honeymoon packages are available that will ensure you have a truly memorable honeymoon in Mauritius.Mauritius is rich in natural attractions. From beautiful beaches, remote islands, bird and animal sanctuaries to mountains, natural reserves and cliffs, Mauritius has a lot on offer. The innumerable water sports, the exciting land and water excursions and underwater explorations make sure you have a great stay while honeymooning in Mauritius.Mauritius is extremely romantic. A couple on their honeymoon can enjoy a beautiful sunset while sitting hand in hand on an isolated cliff, with coral reefs all around. Sounds romantic? Go for a honeymoon in Mauritius and discover many such treasures.A honeymoon in Mauritius is a great way to start off your happy life together with your beloved partner. The island, the people, the climate, the attractions, etc all greet you and soon you will feel at home.So while deciding on a honeymoon destination, you can decide on Mauritius. But before you visit Mauritius, make sure you have a valid Passport and a Visa if you are not a citizen of Commonwealth country, the EU, Japan or USA.

Spas in Mauritius:


A visit to a spa can always be a relaxing experience, and more so when you are on a vacation. The spas in Mauritius are world class and offer brilliant services to the tourists. So if you are in Mauritius make sure you check out some of the great spas in Mauritius.The spas in Mauritius are many in number and are well known for their service, amenities and the friendly staff who make sure you are relaxed from head to toe after the spa visit. The services that most of the spas in Mauritius offer are,

    * Scrubs
    * Wraps
    * Facials
    * Massages
    * Aroma Therapy
    * Hamam

Apart from the soothing services, a trip to the spas in Mauritius will also give you an opportunity to experience nature from close quarters. While most of the beauty products used at the spas are natural, extracted from plants and flowers, many of the spas are located in beautiful natural surroundings. The spas in Mauritius are found on sea beaches, in quaint gardens, in natural resorts and so on. Thus you can well imagine how calming a spa visit can be.

Go to Mauritius and experience the wonderful spas there. It will be worthwhile and a precious gift for yourself.

 

 

 source : http://www.worldtravel4indians.com

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Travel & TourisnMay 8, 2008 8:04 am

Chamba

Chamba is Ancient Capital of Pahari Kings situated on the bank of river Ravi at an altitude of 996 meters. Chamba was founded in 920 AD but King Sahil Verma who named it after his favourite daughter Champavati. Surrounded by higher ranges Chamba has preserved the ancient culture and heritage and Chamba is known for the elegence of its temples and handicrafts. Perched like some medieval italian village fortress, on a flat mountain shelf, overhanging the rushing torrent of the Ravi, it is the centre of a valley rich in ancient remains. In the centre of the town there is a spacious playgroung called the Chowgan, a grassy maidan, about 805 metres in length and 73 metres wide, where people gather for a social, political or religous meetings or a sports event. Chamba became the capital only in the 8th century and at the instance of Chamba, daughter of Rajesh Sahil Verma, who selected the present site and had it removed from Bharmour, 70 km away, also giving the new capital her name. Regular buses link Chamba with Dalhousie and Pathankot. Chamba is 56 km (via Banikhet), on the right bank of the Ravi at an altitude of 915 metres (3,000 ft) from Dalhousie and 122 km from Pathankot. There is also a 30 km long-foot path from Dalhousie to Chamba via Khajjiar which passes through thick deodar forests. Chamba lies in the bosom of the Himalayas. The mountains nature of Chamba made it difficult for the occasional conquerors to establish their supremacy over the local rulers and people. There was, therefore, no interference in the social and religous structure of the people. Chamba has preserved the anchent cultural heritage and civilization. The conservative character of the people haas tended to perpetuate the existing social customs and conditions.Still, there are old tribes i.e.   

Caddies and Pangwalas. For geographical reasons their customs, culture and habits differ from the people of the rest of the district. Chamba’s hills and mountains, rivers, lakes, springs and streams, green meadows and forests are of matchless charm. Among the most interesting objects in Chamba are a number of richly carved ancient temples which closely resemble those in Rajasthan. The most striking of these are the six temples lying in a row near the palace. Three of these are dedicated to Vishnu and the remaining to Siva. All the shrines have shikharas or spires which distinguish them from other hill temples that are usually pent-roofed. Some of the temples date back to the tenth century. The richly carved Laxmi Narayan temple is the oldest one. Chamba is the starting point for many of the treks into the 73 interior of the hills. A road branches off from here to Kashmir via Bhaderwah, and another to Pangi valley over the Sach Pass. The jungles around Dalhousie and Chamba abound in wild life. In the higher regions near the snow line are to be found, snow leopard, ibex and marmot. At th lower elevations brown bear; musk deer, leopards and wild pigs are seen. Pheasants, partridges and wild fowl are found in all parts of the valley.

 

source:   http://www.himachalonline.com 

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Travel & TourisnMay 6, 2008 6:21 am

Grazalema Natural Park

 

Grazalema Natural Park is located in the north east of the province of Cadiz  and in the north west of Malaga. A secure Zone for Birds, the Park spreads over  51,695 hectares and has the  greatest ecological importance in the south of the peninsula and therefore of great significance in Spain .

                                                     

 

Grazalema Natural Park has the highest rainfall (an annual average of over2,000 litres per square metre)in the Iberian Peninsula and is the most important western massif of the Subbetica range. Heavy rainfall and limestone terrain have created a limestone landscape rich in slopes, grottoes, caves and winding gorges.

Main activities are centred on woodcutting and cattle farming . The manufacture of woolen shawls and leather products are included in industrial activities; other sources of income are tourism, hunting and recreational fishing.The Sierra del Pinar forest is an important forest of Spanish firs considered as a vegetational relic of the tertiary period.
Initial eco-development experiments and other development initiatives have been carried out here. One of the main objectives in its management is to maintain a balance between human activity and the natural environment.

 

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Travel & TourisnMay 3, 2008 6:27 am

Costa Rica Tour

Costa Rica is the famous tourist spot in the world. It is situated at the tip of the isthmus of Central America; Costa Rica is in close proximity to both – the Pacific Ocean as well as the Caribbean Sea. The tiny republic of Costa Rica is often pictured as an oasis of political stability in the midst of a turbulent region. This democratic and prosperous nation is also one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet, an ecological treasure house whose varied habitats- ranging from rainforests and beaches to volcanos and mangrove swamps- support a fascinating variety of wildlife.
Tourist Attraction in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is mainly coastline which translates to super fine Costa Rica Beaches which are perfect for swimming, surfing and sun bathing. Not only beaches but also national park, active Arenal Volcano, Templo de la Musica, Costa Rica Butterfly Farms, and  Isla Del Coco National park all these are the attraction for tourist.

Beaches in Costa Rica
Manuel Antonia
•    Manuel Antonia is not only one of the Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches, but one of the most beautiful in the entire world. Perfect horseshoe bays bordered by soft white sands, dazzling blue-green waters, and hilltops piled with jungle and streaming waterfalls.


•    Tamarindo Beach is located in the north of the Nicoya Peninsula on the pacific coast of Costa RicTamarindo Beacha. The location is really appropriate for tourists who want to enjoy a relaxed and visually enticing environment. The area of Tamarindo includes much of the north western part of Costa Rica. A number of different beach fronts are to be found along the area north and south of Tamarindo Beach, and instantly to the south is yet another national park. Dolphins, manta rays, and the nearby coral reef make this an enormous spot for snorkeling, as well as some of the best sports to enjoy.

•    Jaco Beach Jaco Beachis one of the most popular beaches in Costa Rica. It’s proximity to San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica is very near. It offers great night life; surfing, central location, unique shops and galleries make Jaco a must for most itineraries.

Jaco Beach offers you unlimited fun and frolic. It is ideal for fishing, surfing, sun bathing or just relaxing and enjoying the exotic scenic beauty.

Jaco Beach offers miles of pure beaches, along with sizzling sea food. The rocky beauty of the northern beaches can only be enhanced by the feeling of having them all to you and your family. It provides many superior as well as standard acommodations as well. It offers you a perfect romantic ambiance to make you holidays all the more memorable and special.

•     Arenal Volcano Arenal Volcanois the most active volcano not only in Costa Rica but feature among the active volcanoes in the world that often spit fire.

The Arenal Volcano reaches a height of about 1,633 meters. It is conical in shape and the diameter of its crater is 140 meters. Though its existence can be traced back to nearly three thousand years, yet the geologists tout it as a young volcano possibly because of the fact that it still continues to show signs of growth.

•     Templo de la Musica is among the myriad tourist attractions in Costa Rica that act as a major draw for the foreigners visiting Costa Rica. The temple was ceremoniously opened on December 24, 1920 and formerly served as the venue for the speeches heavily laden with political significance and also acted as the seat for the interchanging of powers. The inspiration for building Templo de la Musica was derived from the temple dedicated to music and love in Versailles.

•    Tortuguero National Park, Tortuguero National parkNational parks are a sort of systematic endeavor to salvage the precious forests that were slowly getting obliterated from Costa Rica. When the need to conserve the unexpended wilderness occurred, the national park system was formed. Tortuguero National Park feature among the major national parks and a potential tourist attraction in Costa Rica.

Tortuguero National Park is characterized by its variety and diversity. The park boasts of eleven ecological habitats that range from rainforests to the herbaceous marsh communities. Tortuguero National Park is home to nearly 300 species of birds and a variety of amphibians, reptiles and mammals.

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