Johannesburg Food Market Places

Whether you're thinking of heading to the city of gold, you just arrived, or you're just looking for something different. You'll find an array of markets scattered around the nooks of the city. Some known, some not so much, and the others; just waiting to be discovered by the adventurers out there.
Depending on your taste they're usually themed with varying pull factors whether it be, food-focused, the arts, crafts or clothing, however you'll usually find it's a combination of those and more.
Something that's prevalent to most of the markets in this city is the theme of art.
Here's a list of a few to get a hint of what's out there awaiting you, whether you're local or you're new.
The Neighbourgoods Market
The next time you're free on a Saturday and you're up for taking your taste buds on a memory trip, head over to Neighbourgoods in Braamfontein.
Spawning in a student-dominant part of town, the Neighbourgoods market is where culinary wizards gather to showcase what delicacies they have to offer.
From your apple crumbles to your truffles, your biltong (jerkey) to spinach pastries, and your 'pap' n' vleis'( a local favourite) to your various kabab's., you'll be sure to find something to suit your appetite.
It's dominantly food-focused but there are some stall's that also showcase crafts for sale such as the bamboo-shades, leather wallets and the sorts.
If you want more things arty, just go down stairs and head across the road to Kitcheners Carvery Bar- which is on Saturdays, a mini-market by day and a bumping club in the night -,where you'll find more of your artistic items mostly made by the people selling them.
And as a nice background to the good vibes you'll usually find live music being played there too.
Mini-market down Gandhi Square
Named after the famed historical figure, when one mentions Gandhi Square around Johannesburg, the image of noisy buses usually comes to mind.
But recently there's slowly been a growth in traffic, not in buses but in business.
Where, in a 5 minute walk away from the bus station you will find a mini-market place, sometimes featuring some live-instrument music performers, but mainly consisting of a selection of art dealers showcasing their African-themed creations for patrons.
They mainly consist of things such as, self-designed t-shirts, hand-made wrist bands, handmade sandals, and earrings just to name a few.
Sort of like a bridge between Carlton Center (shopping mall) and Gandhi Square, it's small compared to the others but the market still has something unique to offer.
Maboneng Precinct and Market on Main
Buzzing with a vast selection of things to do, and things to see, if you find yourself stuck on choice on what to do; simply just walking around the place will set you on a good start.
You can catch a bite at Market on Main, which similarly to Neighbourgoods, is a place focused on creating an attractive haven for food-makers to connect with food-lovers and enjoy some fresh delicacies of all sorts.
Head on upstairs and you will find an area centered around art, ranging from thrift clothing pieces, your bamboo-shades, photography pieces, handmade goods, and even an art gallery displaying the works of selected artists.
A great thing about it is the interconnectedness of it all, you come up from the ground with your food and drinks, head on upstairs to the art, then outside to catch a wider view of the area, go back downstairs crunching your way through the pebble flooring. Then up the road you go, where in a short walk you'll find yourself in the Maboneng Precinct.
There are more spacious established restaurants. You have other people showcasing hand-made goods on the streets. The vibe is young and arty, you'll see it even in the dressing style of the people. There's a roof restaurant, there's a back packers joint there's a... lot going on and hopefully you can extend the list through your own experience if you've managed to come this far in this article.
Hopefully I've sparked your curiosity. All in all Johannesburg has a lot to offer, if you're keen on exploring around you'll be sure to find some hidden jewels in the city.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9033778

Watch The Video »

Afflecks of the Northern Quarter

The Northern Quarter is home to independent restaurants, cafes, bars, records shops, and fashion stores providing people with uniquely Northern Quarter-styled goods by independent designers and traders.
Affleck or Affleck's Palace is an indoor market in the Northern Quarter. It serves as a venue for several different independent small shops, stalls, and boutiques. The name originated from a former office situated in its current location, called Affleck and Brown.
The independent nature of the market's stalls and shops make it a unique shopping center. The market beautifully replicates the Northern Quarter's eclectic charm.
You can buy different and uniquely made items from the designers and craftsmen themselves. Many stores sell homemade, limited edition and one-of-a-kind items so there really is a whole niche of unique items here. Local artists sell their work here, giving buyers a chance to have their very own art pieces.
Clothing
Affleck has vintage clothing stores, handmade clothing stores, and stores which sell clothes from different countries like Japan. They even have a store that sells corsets, burlesque wear, and sexy evening wear along with the usual prom and wedding dresses. They have fancy dress shops for all your costume needs. The Attic Theatrical Fancy Dress Shop has extravagant dress costumes, theme costumes, retro clothing, gothic clothing, Christmas costumes, Halloween costumes, medieval costumes, different costumes from different decades, superhero costumes, cartoon character costumes, and so many more.
Body Modification
Affleck also has body modification shops like The Tattoo Studio, which has both male and female artists to cater to the client's likings. The Tattoo Studio also does piercings in various parts of the body. They also have a selection of band merchandise like t-shirts, hoodies, bags, wallets, mugs, and hats that have new designs coming in every week.
Shiva is a shop specializing in body piercing jewelry, gift items, and specialist jewelry. Other stores also sell body piercing jewelry in Affleck's; one only has to be patient in looking for their needed design.
Crafting Materials
Affleck's also has craft material stores like those that sell beads - The Bead Shop - on the first floor. It is a well-established store that sells beads and jewelry making supplies. They even have beading classes throughout each week. They also sell an array of differently sized and colored ribbons.
Services
There are salons, barber shops, and massage parlors here, too. Chinese Therapeutic is a massage parlor that offers full body massages, head massages, and even hair cutting services for men and women.
Affleck's also has a café with a vintage feel. Located at the third floor, it also has a beautiful view. They offer hot and cold food, tea, coffee, and soft drinks along with vintage clothing and shoes.
Affleck's and the whole Northern Quarter is a really notable place in Manchester, especially if you're looking for creative finds. If you're looking to get artistly inspired then moving to Manchester is a great place to start. Browse through and find one of the many apartments Manchester has to offer and experience the creative ambiance of the Northern Quarter for yourself.

Watch The Video »

The Glories of Udaipur

Rajasthan is a state which comprises the most of the beautiful destinations present in the Great Indian Desert. Every city in Rajasthan showcases the sheer essence of the Thar Desert except Udaipur. Udaipur is a mesmerizing oasis present amidst the hot and humid desert. Udaipur is the city of lakes which is located in the stunning landscape of the Thar. It is quite a paradox in the humid desert of Rajasthan as the charming lakes and fascinating scenic beauty stands in contrast with the hot sandy terrain.
This city is dedicated and named after the person who established it - Maharana Udai Singh. The city is prominent by the name of the 'City of Dawn'. Poised elegantly at the foothills of Aravali ranges, Udaipur comprises bewitching scenic beauty. The exotic splendor of this city makes it the most stunningly picturesque city of the state. Standing gloriously since 1559, Udaipur is one of the prominent cities which showcase the intriguing ethnicity of Rajasthan at its best. The place is eminent for comprising the true essence of Rajput's vigor and way of life. This preferred tourist destination, Udaipur foretells a saga of courage, verve and pride of the country's most remarkable Rajput kings. Some of the significant residences of this romantic city have now been transformed into five star hotels.
This city is not only rich in terms of natural glory but it is historically and culturally affluent too. It is known for its enthralling palaces and glorious forts which are fortified with complex architecture. This city of dawn was ruled by the Mewar dynasty. This is the fact that explains why the wondrous palaces and forts stand as a tribute to the Mewar dynasty. The construction of this city is such that there are 5 gates that fringe the city. There were eleven gates but unfortunately now only five are left. The prime and the main entrance among the eleven gates is the Sun gate or Suraj Pol. It is also the longest passage of the city and is located at the eastern side.
The main attraction which any visitor should not miss is the City Palace. It is poised amidst the serene Lake Pichola. The palace is incredibly constructed by pure white marble and granite. It is the largest palace or one should rather say the largest complex in the state which comprises various palaces and Ghats in its interiors. It is an art piece of architectural excellence which showcases a unique fusion of Medieval, European and Chinese architecture. The artistic brilliance and perfect setting makes it the main attraction of Udaipur. Other captivating architectural edifices of the city include Chittaurgarh, the Jain temples of Ranakpur, the mountain retreat of Abu and the spectacular fortress of Kumbhalgarh.
Another attraction of the place is the striking forts which are now transformed into luxury heritage hotels that aim at keeping alive the royalty, culture and tradition of Rajasthan and their rulers. There are other luxury hotels too which endow a sheer essence of royalty while your stay in this glorious city.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9040255

Watch The Video »

Cycling and Bike Trails in Lake Havasu City

Lake Havasu City has some of the best cycling and biking trails of the world. If you love exploring trails on your bicycle, this city can be the most suitable place for you to head straight to. There are lots of open areas where you can cycle around in Lake Havasu City amidst fresh air and huge stretches of blue skies. Besides the hilly trails and the unending open roads, there are several other trails here, suitable for all kinds of cyclists. If you are adventurous at heart, there are the rough trails where you can try out your expertise while if you are keener for a relaxing cycle ride, you can set out on the well-paved paths of Lake Havasu.
Irrespective of the kind of cycling that suits you, the trails and the weather conditions in the city are just perfect for a bicycle ride. If you set out for a cycling experience in places like the Island Trail, you will not only have some good physical exercise, but also end up feeling invigorated, thanks to some of the most breathtaking natural scenes of the city.
If you are a biker at heart, there could be no better place than Lake Havasu City. There are areas here like the Sara Park that is suitable both for an amateur and a professional biker. In these places, you will get an opportunity to test your biking skill through all levels of difficulty. The best attribute about this place is that there is no need to bring your own bike; there are plenty of bike rental associations in all these biking trails taking care of your adrenaline rush.
In case you are a fairly experienced rider with paved, flat trails that have some climbs and descents, you may even hit the 8.5 mile trail that parallels Arizona Highway 95 through town, from north to south.
The best time of the year to bike your way through those pretty yet rough mountains of Lake Havasu is from October to April. However, you are likely to come across keen bikers here, throughout the year. The trails here not only have sparse traffic, but are also known for some incredible mountaintop views, thus making the place an apt destination to enjoy cycling while refreshing your tired souls.
The numerous trails in Lake Havasu City are suitable for people of all ages. You just have to choose the one most interesting for you. All round the year, several events are held on these biking and cycling trails in the city. You can easily be a part of these events and add excitement to your biking or cycling experience.

Watch The Video »

Bhopal: The Gorgeous City With Rich Heritage

Bhopal is the capital city of the state of Madhya Pradesh. It has also served as the capital of the former state of Bhopal and is the administrative quarters of Bhopal district and Bhopal division. It is also quite famous and is known as the City of Lakes for its various artificial as well as natural lakes. Moreover it is also one of the greenest cities in the country. The city has served as a major centre for educational institutes and information technology centres for the country. It is the 14th largest city of the country and 131st largest city if the world. Check out the hotels in bhopal railway station to avail a locational advantage.
It houses various institutions and installations of national importance. It is a Y class city and it has ISRO's Master Control city as well. It is also quite famous and is known as the City of Lakes for its various artificial as well as natural lakes. Moreover it is also one of the greenest cities in the country. The city has served as a major centre for educational institutes and information technology centres for the country. It also is the home to BHEL as well as Institutes of national Importance such as NLIU, AIIMS, and MANIT. Thus the city is a great educational hub. The city is the second largest Muslim-ruled princely state after the first one being Hyderabad. When the country achieved independence in 1947, the last Nawab wanted to retain Bhopal as a separate entity. This led to agitations against the Nawab during December 1948, that led to arrest of several major freedom fighters of the country. This includes major personalities like Shankar Dayal Sharma.
You can also head to Bhojtal, which is also called as the Upper Lake. It is a large lake and it was created after the lower lake since the population of the city increased. It lies on the western side of the city with a small island called Shah Ali Shah island. It also serves as a major source of drinking water for the residents of the city. This lake has also been called as Bada Taal or Upper Lake ("Big Pond"). Then until March of 2011, the lake was officially renamed as Bhoj Taal. Later on, a statue of Raja Bhoj was also installed. This statue is located on a pillar on one corner of the lake. It houses various institutions and installations of national importance. It is a Y class city and it has ISRO's Master Control city as well. It is also quite famous and is known as the City of Lakes for its various artificial as well as natural lakes. Moreover it is also one of the greenest cities in the country. The city has served as a major centre for educational institutes and information technology centres for the country. It also is the home to BHEL as well as Institutes of national Importance such as NLIU, AIIMS, and MANIT. Thus the city is a great educational hub. Check out the numerous luxury hotels in Bhopal to find a suitable place of stay.

Watch The Video »

The Highlights of Morocco's Imperial Cities

Travelers visiting Morocco are enchanted by the varied architecture, the Medinas on cobbled streets, the dazzling sands of the Sahara, and the stunning snow-capped Atlas Mountains whilst staying in brilliant Riads (traditional homes sometimes converted to hotels that have unique courtyards that conveniently ventilate the structure) on lush gardens in a labyrinth of culture, history and beauty. Surely Westerners have heard of the film Casablanca, the romantic 1942 film starring Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart. It takes place in the enticing city in northwest Morocco. What some of us do not know is Morocco has four "Imperial Cities" - each having been capital at least once and several times for a couple. They are, in no particular order: Fes (Fez), Marrakech, Rabat and Meknes. Interestingly, Casablanca isn't necessarily the most captivating city to visit. To the north of Casablanca, and also on the shores of the Atlantic, is the current capital of Rabat.
Rabat (meaning "fortified place" showcasing its prominent military importance) has a lesser population than Casablanca - slightly over one million inhabitants. It has a heavy French influence and houses the King and embassies. Its main languages are Arabic and French. Most escorted group tours go to the abandoned mosque (the Almohad ruler who started it died) with the incomplete Hassan Tower which is about half the intended size -approx 140 ft. Also commonly visited are the Royal residence (Dar-al-Makhzen), Pietri Square, the Bouregreg Marina, the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Rabat Archaeological Museum and the Riad district. Stop at a zoo (Zoo de Rabat), the gorgeous Andalusian Gardens or perhaps Les Jardins Exotiques de Bouknadel, the Mausoleum of Mohammad V, the Museum Mohamed VI of Modern and Contemporary Art, and the must-visit Chellah, an ancient Roman ruin. The weather and food are blissfully Mediterranean, therefore beach activities and lounging are constant go-tos.
Meknes, partially surrounded by ancient walls encompassing exquisite gates (such as Bab Mansour) considered some of the best-preserved of the Islamic world, was capital from 1672-1727. It is about 80 miles inland from Rabat and is a bustling, though less populated and noticed, city that some feel is easier to navigate. Intended by its creator, Moulay Ismail, to rival Versailles, a lot of it (including the walls) was leveled by an earthquake in 1755. The prices here may be more reasonable and the people more friendly. Some noteworthy sights are the Bou Inania Medersa, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, Dar Al-Makhzen, Jamai Palace (inside is the Museum of Moroccan Arts) and the El Hedim Square (Place El Hadim) providing entertainment such as snake-charmers, story-tellers, horse riding and medicine men. Nearby are souks and famous confectionary merchants. Fortifications were key to Ismail so there is an impressive stable (for 12,000 horses!) and granary. Maybe stroll through Moulay Idris if you have a good sense of direction. Take a guided tour through the rolling hills to the nearby amazing Roman ruins of Volubilis, perhaps the best preserved ruins in northern Africa.
Fez is considered the heart of Morocco - at least in a religious or intellectual sense (and it is more inland than coastal, like Marrakech). It also has a population of just over a million. See the medinas of old Fez (Fes el-Bali), the streets resplendent with an onslaught to the senses - narrow winding paths through food stands, silk and tapestry shops, brass and copper souks, mosques and bazaars and lots of people! Delight in bakers, butchers and spice vendors selling their delicacies. Along with the old Fes see the Chaouwara Tanneries, the Kairaouine Mosque and University (possibly the oldest university in the world), the Jewish Cemetery & Habarim Synagogue and the Medersa Bou Inania. The New Fez, Ville Nouvelle, was built by the French so it has the feel of a French provincial town. It has wide boulevards with delicious dining (cap the night off with some of the famous mint tea) and local entertainment.
Last of the Morocco Imperial Cities is Marrakech. It is dubbed the Red (or alternatively, Ochre) City because of red sandstone buildings built by Ali ibn Yusuf in 1122-1123. It is nestled about fifteen or so miles from the base of the Atlas Mountains, has a more semi-arid climate (compared to the coastal cities) and is replete with local markets (souks), gardens, monuments, palaces, food, fun and entertainment. Namely: Djemaa el Fna Square - the main entrance square that comes alive with vendors and performers that change throughout the day, the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, Ben Youssef Madrasa and Almoravid Koubba, for a start. You can browse the medina for wares such as traditional Moroccan lanterns or slippers. And of course, see craftsmen at work, purchase Berber carpets and dine sumptuously. Don't forget your mint tea!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9041428

Watch The Video »

Harrisburg Offers Tons of Fun Things to Do

With summer quickly approaching, it's time to start considering where to go for the vacations we've looked forward to all year long. Thousands of tourists will be headed for typical destinations like Disneyland, Florida, and Washington, D.C. Although those are all great vacation spots, there's nothing better on a trip than getting a little bit off the beaten path. If you want to spend your holiday in a city that has something for every age group, it's time to start considering all the things to do near Harrisburg and Hershey. Read on for some suggestions about where to go to make the most of your vacation.
Pennsylvania State Capitol
If you're looking for things to do near Harrisburg, visiting the state's capitol is a no-brainer. The building is absolutely stunning, designed in the American Renaissance style by architect Joseph Huston. With a five-story exterior covered in Vermont granite and a green-glazed terra cotta tile roof, you'll want to make sure to stop for photos. Make sure to check out the capitol's centerpiece as well, a 52-million pound dome inspired by St. Peter's Basilica. Guided tours are offered almost every day of the year to point out the architectural and artistic highlights of this magnificent building.
Hershey's Chocolate World and Hersheypark
There's no way that you can come to the Harrisburg and Hershey area without visiting the home of our country's favorite chocolate! At Hershey's Chocolate World, you can take the Hershey's Great American Chocolate Tour, create your own candy bar, ride on the trolley, attend chocolate tastings, and more. No member of your family will be able to say no to delicious treats in a fun environment.
If you're looking for something a little more fast-paced, then Hersheypark is perfect for you. This chocolate- and candy-themed amusement park offers rides and attractions for people of all ages. There are also tons of entertainment options, with 12 resident shows, seasonal concerts, and tons of opportunities to meet your favorite Hershey's characters. ZooAmerica, a year-round, 11-acre, walk-through zoo, is also adjacent to the park, and combination tickets can be purchased.
Harrisburg Senators
After a day of running around at an amusement park, a relaxing day at the baseball field may be the perfect way to unwind. Metro Bank Park is home to the Harrisburg Senators, a Double-A affiliate. In addition to offering great snacks, drinks, and sports, Metro Bank Park has recently opened up a Kids Zone full of inflatables and activities that your children will love. Reasonable prices make this a great option for a day in Harrisburg.
As you can see, there is no shortage of things to do near Harrisburg. Whether you want to learn more about your favorite chocolate or enjoy an exhilarating ride on a roller coaster, you're sure to have a great time on this vacation. Start planning today!

Watch The Video »

10 Facts About Africa - Did You Know?

Africa is largely considered by scientists to be the place for origin of all of mankind. The continent is vast - rich in diverse customs and culture, traditions, history, climates and topography.
Here is a list of ten interesting facts about the continent of Africa.
1. The largest waterfall in the world is the Victoria Falls. It has the largest curtain of falling water although it is not the highest nor the widest.
2. Africa is home to the largest hot desert in the world. The Sahara desert stretches over most of northern Africa from Egypt and Sudan in the east to Mauritania and the Atlantic Ocean in the west. It is 9.4million sq kilometers (3.6million sq miles).
3. There are about 2000 different languages spoken in Africa, including some originating from Europe and Asia.
4. Africa is the second largest continent in the world. The total area that the continent covers is 30.22 million sq kilometers.
5. The continent of Africa covers five time zones.
UTC-01 - Cape Verde
UTC+00 - Western European Time | Greenwich Mean Time
UTC+01 - Western Sahara Time | Central European Time | West Africa Time
UTC+02 - South Africa Time | Central Africa Time | Eastern European Time
UTC+03 - East Africa Time
UTC+04 - Mauritius Time | Reunion Time | Seychelles Time
6. Madagascar, in the Indian Ocean, is the largest island in Africa and the fourth largest island in the world. Africa has islands in the Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
7. Africa is the most multilingual continent in the world. A lot of people in Africa speak different African languages, some including European and Asian languages.
8. Ice hockey is played in South Africa, Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, Cote d'Ivoire and Kenya. The first African Nations Cup was held in 2009 in South Africa with three participating countries - South Africa, Morocco and Algeria.
9. The longest river in the world is the Nile. It is 6853 kilometers (4258 miles) long. Due to blocking of the river by a chain of volcanoes in East Africa, the Nile lost some headwaters and otherwise would be 1400 kilometers (800 miles) longer than it is today.
10. Africa has 54 sovereign recognised states. The newest of these independent countries is South Sudan.
There is so much more to learn about Africa, which is home to deserts, grasslands, thick tropical forests, steppe climates, humid subtropical and Mediterranean climates. The continent is surrounded by the Indian and Atlantic Oceans in the east and west, and the Mediterranean Sea in the north. Precious minerals and metals found in Africa include gold, copper, iron and steel, platinum, uranium, diamonds and other precious stones.

You will find this website a valuable resource for up to date information. From history and culture of Africa to accommodation and activities in Victoria Falls, and everything in between.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9053470

Watch The Video »

The Religious Island Srirangam

Srirangam is a beautiful religious island, which is surrounded by the river Cauvery and its distributary Coleroon, which is colloquially known as Kollidam. It is the favorite place of the devotees of Lord Vishnu. Sri Ranganathaswamy temple is located in the island of Srirangam. This town is connected to Trichy, which is one among the largest cities in Tamilnadu.
Surveys state that, the Srirangam temple is the biggest Hindu temple in the world, which functions till now. The area of the temple is 6,790,000 square feet and its perimeter is 10,710 feet. The popular Sri Ranganathaswamy temple is enclosed with seven Prakaras. The main tower of the temple, which is called Rajagopuram, is seventy two meters tall. It is the tallest temple tower in Asia. Apart from this main tower, there are 21 towers in the temple, each with uniqueness. All the towers in the temple are sculpted with excellent artwork by the ancient artistic legends.
The deity Lord Sri Ranganathaswamy is in the reclining posture. The history of this temple is very interesting, say the native people in the town. The idol of the god was presented by Lord Rama to Vibishana, who is the brother of the King Ravana. Ravana made a turning point in the Hindu epic, Ramayana. While taking it to his home town Sri Lanka, Vibishana placed the idol on the banks of river Cauvery, to worship. After worshipping, he could not lift it up and it was said that, the lord found his own place and erected himself. During the Chola dynasty, this temple was developed well and elaborated in all directions.
Srirangam town has a very good economy, as it flourishes many devotees. People from all over the world come to the town to worship the relaxing idol of Sri Ranganathaswamy. Vaikunta Ekadashi is the festival when the devotees from all over the world gather at this temple. As there are frequent visits by the devotees, the economical condition of the town is excellent.
The Tiruchirappalli International Airport in Trichy, serves well for the people who visit the temple from distant places. Frequent bus transportation is available from Trichy to Srirangam. This small town has a railway station too.
As Srirangam is a small town, many of the visitors like to dine in Trichy, which could be reached within 12 minutes from Srirangam. Trichy has an enormous number of international restaurants to supply all varieties of food for its international visitors.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9002621

Watch The Video »

There's Something About Paris

Paris is one of the - if not the -leading cities in terms of fashion, art and culture. Very few places have an image as refined as that of Paris. With landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Notre Dame, and its portrayal in movies as the City of Love, Paris is the most visited city in the world. It receives over 15 million tourists annually. And this number is growing. Most people know the major stuff there is to know about this grand city, however it has much more to offer. And in this article we'll tell you what you should do in your next visit to Paris as sometimes straying off the beaten path is a good way to enjoy a holiday.
The quai along the left bank of Port St. Bernard comes alive on warm summer nights with people picnicking, strolling and even ballroom dancing. From 1st June through to the end of August, dancers congregate along the bank near the 'Institut du Monde Arabe' to perfect their various styles of dancing like salsa, waltz and tango. It's definitely worth spending an evening or two.
Paris initially was a Galo-Roman City called Lutetia and it still has a lot of remnants from that time period. A coliseum, baths, remains of walls, pillars and carved stones are there for the explorer to find. The Roman Baths at Cluny are the most impressive Roman remains in the city. A close second is the Archeological Crypt near Notre Dame.
Many travelers to Paris do not experience Canal St. Martin. Grab a friend and share a drink at the edge of this canal. It's a popular treat with artists and locals so you'll have plenty of people to mingle with.
Besides the Roman remains, there is another piece of Paris' past living within its modern walls. The 19th century covered passages of Paris, which are remnants of the post revolution rise of the middle class in French society. They are mostly old fashioned shopping malls from that era. Discover them on your own or grab a tour guide.
Besides the world famous Louvre, Paris has a host of other interesting museums. The Museum of Comparative Anatomy and Paleontology provides a fascinating look into the world of 19th century science. Jardin des Palntes has a botanical garden, zoo and several natural history museums. Visit these if you're looking to spend a quiet few hours taking in French History and culture.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9068767

Watch The Video »

Boat Tours in Lake Havasu City: 4 Must-Visit Spots

If you are planning a tour to Lake Havasu City, you must be wondering about the must do's to avoid missing any of them. One of the grand factors about vacationing in Lake Havasu City is that you can enjoy some breathtaking views, especially when opting for boat tours. Just imagine how great it would be to travel up the Colorado River through the Havasu National WildLife Refuge and visit a lot of interesting rock formation and spots like the Devil's Elbow. In fact, during some of these tours, you can also get to visit the Indian Petroglyphs that are 3500 years old. You can also go on a specialized sunset tour or a sunrise tour and explore the beauty of Lake Havasu City at its best. Parker Dam, Copper Canyon, Balance Rock and Steamboat Cove are some of the other places that you just can't afford to miss during your boat tour in Lake Havasu City.
Here are four must-visit spots in Lake Havasu City that your boat tour shouldn't miss at any cost:

1. London Bridge: This is one of the oldest claims to fame of this city that you must visit if you want to explore the place to the fullest. While going under this bridge during your boat tour, you can enjoy some of the best views of Lake Havasu City.
2. Parker Dam: This is another place that features on the itinerary of almost every boat tour. This arch-gravity dam crosses the Colorado River. Apart from being one of the tourist hotspots, this dam is also used to create a reservoir and produce hydroelectric power. This dam ensures flood control as well by delaying and capturing flash floods.
3. Copper Canyon: Copper Canyon is quite popular among tourists since this is home to a lot of activities like biking, hiking, horseback riding and driving. While sailing on a luxurious boat, you can enjoy the natural beauty of this place. It's basically a group of canyons that contains six different canyons.
4. Balance Rock: This is another place that you simply can't afford to miss while going on a boat tour in Lake Havasu City. It's a huge rock mass that is situated on top of a narrow column of stone, in a precariously dangerous position. While visiting this place, you can get to witness the widely varied flora that the region is famous for. It's advisable to opt for a day tour for exploring this place better.

These are four places in Lake Havasu City that you must visit while going on a boat tour. So, the next time you plan your travel itinerary to this city, make sure to tick them off your list.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9073880

Watch The Video »

The Charming Inhambane Area of Mozambique

Situated in the Jangamo District in a province of the same name, Inhambane is one of Mozambique's precious historic towns. With its slow lifestyle and colonial architecture, the town reminds you of the times gone by. Because it stands on a peninsula with a great view of the bay, Inhambane is quite picturesque, and it has all the right features to charm any visitor.
Close to this African town are gorgeous wide beaches and clear waters. The town is also known for its world-class Whale Shark and Manta Ray viewing. Because it is a certified tourist hub, you will have no problem finding accommodation in Inhambane as it is populated by a selection of accommodation options ranging from lodges, hotels, self-catering cabanas to luxurious resorts.
Along the coastline stretching throughout the Inhambane region, there are plenty of activities to keep you engaged and excited. You can try scuba diving or deep sea fishing. You can also go canoeing by yourself or sign up for a charter boat excursion. Parts of the beautiful Inhambane region are other visitor magnet villages like Guinjata and Jangamo. These towns offer miles and miles of sandy stretches, mangrove forests and palm tree plantations.
Out of all the villages in the region, Tofo is arguably the most prominent, as it lures the most beach fanatics and sun worshippers. Located about 30 kilometers away, this fishing village sits on the eastern section of the Inhambane Peninsula. Although it is attached to a peninsula, Tofo has more of an island vibe. Aside from its sandy beaches and shimmering waters, you can also enjoy an excellent colorful local market.
If you are into scuba diving, Tofo is also one of the best spots in the region to enjoy the sport. The underwater world of Tofo is teeming with various creatures including sea turtles, manta rays, leopard sharks, devil rays, scorpion fish and potato groupers. The presence of abundant marine life is attributed to the large number of planktons making the area a wonderful viewing experience.
There are approximately 16 scuba diving sites, which have varying depths from 10 to 40 meters. But there are also deeper areas, which can be conquered by advanced scuba divers. Another great things about diving in Tofo is that you can do it year round. The visibility can be from 5 to 30 meters, depending on conditions such as currents, wind and tides.
Kitesurfing is also at its best at Tofo beach, because of the breaking waves and good swells. The village is also home to the marine research center, The Marine Magafauna Foundation, which provides visitors weekly presentations about the marine life in the region.
At the south of Tofo lies Tofinho, which boasts one of the best surfing breaks in the east African coastline. But if you're not a surfer, you can still enjoy your time at Tofinho by doing other activities like horse riding, kayaking, quad biking and island hopping. If you head out a few kilometers north of Tofo, you will find another popular village called Barra. This village is largely known for its 7- kilometer white sand beach that straddles between the mangrove estuary and the Indian Ocean.
To access the Inhambane Peninsula you can take a direct flight from Johannesburg, South Africa to the capital Maputo. From here, you will need to make land transfer arrangements to Inhambane and other villages.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9077447

Watch The Video »

12 Most Interesting Spots to Visit in Kolkata

When the English rule started expanding in medieval India, they established a new city as the capital of the British Empire and named it as Calcutta, after the name of one of the villages, which were developed to build this large city. Afterwards, although the capital of India was shifted to Delhi, Calcutta never lost its glory. Now, this city is renamed as Kolkata and still it continues to be a major attraction for common tourists, pilgrims and history lovers from all over the world.
As Kolkata is rightly called "City of Joy', you can enjoy yourself to your heart's content, in many popular sites, including historical monuments, spots of scenic beauty and even mouth-watering food centers. Being a city of more than 300 years, you can simply be tired of visiting the numerous tourist spots all over the city and also in the realms of its suburbs. But here only 12 main sites of tourist attractions are going to be discussed in short, which have been considered as the signature landmarks of Kolkata; so that you can have a prior idea about them and moreover, you do not miss to visit any of these magnificent locations.
Victoria Memorial - This huge white marble building that resembles Taj Mahal to some extent was named to commemorate Queen Victoria and opened for public in 1921. It lies at the heart of the city and surrounded by lavish greenery all around it, along with well-maintained parks. Now it serves as a museum that displays many rare oil paintings of the British Royals and also several Indian dignitaries of pre-independence period; along with their belongings, like swords or dresses or books, enabling you to have a look into the glorious past.
Indian Museum - This is the biggest and oldest museum of India, containing six sections for Art, Geology, Archaeology, Zoology, Economic Botany and Anthropology. There are total 35 galleries in these sections, housing various rare paintings of famous painters of Mughal period; several antique pieces, like ancient seals and coins; ornaments, armors and weapons of many medieval kings and warriors; different types of fossils from pre-human ages and mommies; skeletons of prehistoric animals, birds and reptiles; statues of various Hindu Gods, Lord Buddha and some Jain Tirthankars also are seen here.
Marble Palace - This palace got its name from its totally marble-made walls, pillars and floors, made by Raja Rajendra Mullick, a rich businessman of the 19th century. This manor is renowned for its huge collections of art, bought from various parts of Europe; which include various sculptures, paintings of renowned European painters, western furniture items, chandeliers, life-size mirrors, large clocks and other antique pieces of great value. Besides the main building, there is also a small zoo and a rock garden, built within these premises. But you need to obtain prior permission from State Tourism Information Bureau to visit this North Kolkata building, as some parts of it is still inhabited by the descendants of Mullick family.
Fort William - It is a fort built by the British during the early era of their rule in India, which they named after the then reigning king of Britain, William III. This huge octagonal fort lies on the banks of River Hooghly and it is noted for its star-like design and its huge area of approximately 80 hectares, surrounded by a deep channel. It has 6 large gates and five of its sides face the vast green land that is called 'Maidan' and considered as the lung of the city for the availability of fresh air here. As it is now occupied by the Indian Army, only some parts of it, like a church, boxing ring, football ground, market and firing range are open for the public.
Eden Gardens - If you are a cricket lover, then you cannot miss to visit Eden Gardens, the historical cricket ground of Kolkata, where many international cricket matches had been played and plenty of records had been set by different talented players. Apart from recalling the history of cricket matches played in this vast stadium, you can just enjoy its velvety green ground and rest anywhere of the surrounding stands, which currently have the capacity for holding more than 66,000 people at a time! Near this spot, you can also see Writer's Building, the red-colored historical Secretariat of West Bengal, which is currently under repair.
Kali Ghat Temple - This is an ancient temple that is extremely sacred to the Hindus, on the bank of a canal which earlier used to be the actual course of Hoogly River, but now just flows into the present course of the river. The temple complex is vast, comprising of several other temples, apart from the main altar that is dedicated to Goddess Kali; and also other building structures, used for various purposes.
St. Paul's Cathedral - It is a prominent Anglican church of North India and it is distinguished for its huge tower and spire built in Indo-Gothic style, along with the stained glass windows of attractive colors and two frescoes drawn in Italian Renaissance mode. Though it was built in the mid 19th century, this church had to be rebuilt in 1934, after being destroyed due to the earthquake. At that time, it was designed following the architecture of the central tower of the famous Canterbury Cathedral of England. You can also visit Rabindra Sadan and Nandan Cinema Complex, which are the two main cultural sites of the people of Bengal, just adjacent to this Cathedral.
Dakshineshwar Kali Temple - This temple complex was built on the bank of Hooghly River, in the 19th century, by Rani Rasmani, the queen of Janbazar in Kolkata. Apart from the main temple dedicated to Goddess Kali; there are also 12 temples that are dedicated to Lord Shiva and a Radha-Krishna temple, along with other buildings, over vast areas of 25 acres. This temple is more known for its close association to the famous Hindu saint of that time, Sri Ramkrishna Paramhansa.
Birla Mandir - Actually this huge temple of beautiful white marble is called Lakshmi Narayan Mandir though its main deities are Radha-Krishna. It is also commonly named as Birla Mandir, as it was totally funded by the Birlas, one of the richest families of India. This temple is worth seeing for its splendid architecture and stone carvings.
Birla Planetarium - This is the largest planetarium in Asia and its structure strongly resembles that of the Buddhist Sanchi Stupa. Though it is located amongst the most popular tourist sites of Kolkata, being next to St. Paul's Cathedral and opposite to Victoria Memorial; this planetarium is unique for its large observatory, containing latest astronomical equipments. You will love to watch the shows on various aspects of astronomy and space science, imparted in English, Bengali, Hindi and few other Indian languages regularly, between 12 noon to 7 pm.
Science City - This is the biggest science hub of India, planned by National Council of Science Museums in 1997. This extraordinary science complex, located on recently developed Eastern Bypass of the city is now considered as one of the major tourist attractions of Kolkata. The most popular features of this place are Dynamotion Hall, Evolution Park, Earth Exploration Hall, Space Odyssey, Maritime Center and the most enjoyable Science Park, which your kids will want to see again and again!
Eco Tourism Park - This is a newly built park in Rajarhat, in the Northern suburb of Kolkata. Inaugurated only 2 years back, it has already gained immense popularity among the common people, for amazing features, like Amphitheatre, Chinese Garden, Butterfly Garden, Bonsai garden, Cactus Walk, Bamboo Garden, Children's play corner, Water garden, Mist house and Utility corner. If you are a food-lover, you can enjoy in Food Courts and different restaurants here, including Bengali restaurant. There are 3 different kinds of Eco zones and a lake zone for the enjoyment of nature-lovers here.
Apart from the above mentioned sites, you can also drop in to see Shahid Minar, Howrah Bridge, South Park Street Cemetery; along with the famous Belur Math in close proximity to the city. Your kids will also enjoy visiting Millennium Park, Birla Technological Museum, Alipore Zoological Gardens and Agri Horticultural Garden.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9078086

Watch The Video »

12 Most Interesting Spots to Visit in Kolkata

When the English rule started expanding in medieval India, they established a new city as the capital of the British Empire and named it as Calcutta, after the name of one of the villages, which were developed to build this large city. Afterwards, although the capital of India was shifted to Delhi, Calcutta never lost its glory. Now, this city is renamed as Kolkata and still it continues to be a major attraction for common tourists, pilgrims and history lovers from all over the world.
As Kolkata is rightly called "City of Joy', you can enjoy yourself to your heart's content, in many popular sites, including historical monuments, spots of scenic beauty and even mouth-watering food centers. Being a city of more than 300 years, you can simply be tired of visiting the numerous tourist spots all over the city and also in the realms of its suburbs. But here only 12 main sites of tourist attractions are going to be discussed in short, which have been considered as the signature landmarks of Kolkata; so that you can have a prior idea about them and moreover, you do not miss to visit any of these magnificent locations.
Victoria Memorial - This huge white marble building that resembles Taj Mahal to some extent was named to commemorate Queen Victoria and opened for public in 1921. It lies at the heart of the city and surrounded by lavish greenery all around it, along with well-maintained parks. Now it serves as a museum that displays many rare oil paintings of the British Royals and also several Indian dignitaries of pre-independence period; along with their belongings, like swords or dresses or books, enabling you to have a look into the glorious past.
Indian Museum - This is the biggest and oldest museum of India, containing six sections for Art, Geology, Archaeology, Zoology, Economic Botany and Anthropology. There are total 35 galleries in these sections, housing various rare paintings of famous painters of Mughal period; several antique pieces, like ancient seals and coins; ornaments, armors and weapons of many medieval kings and warriors; different types of fossils from pre-human ages and mommies; skeletons of prehistoric animals, birds and reptiles; statues of various Hindu Gods, Lord Buddha and some Jain Tirthankars also are seen here.
Marble Palace - This palace got its name from its totally marble-made walls, pillars and floors, made by Raja Rajendra Mullick, a rich businessman of the 19th century. This manor is renowned for its huge collections of art, bought from various parts of Europe; which include various sculptures, paintings of renowned European painters, western furniture items, chandeliers, life-size mirrors, large clocks and other antique pieces of great value. Besides the main building, there is also a small zoo and a rock garden, built within these premises. But you need to obtain prior permission from State Tourism Information Bureau to visit this North Kolkata building, as some parts of it is still inhabited by the descendants of Mullick family.
Fort William - It is a fort built by the British during the early era of their rule in India, which they named after the then reigning king of Britain, William III. This huge octagonal fort lies on the banks of River Hooghly and it is noted for its star-like design and its huge area of approximately 80 hectares, surrounded by a deep channel. It has 6 large gates and five of its sides face the vast green land that is called 'Maidan' and considered as the lung of the city for the availability of fresh air here. As it is now occupied by the Indian Army, only some parts of it, like a church, boxing ring, football ground, market and firing range are open for the public.
Eden Gardens - If you are a cricket lover, then you cannot miss to visit Eden Gardens, the historical cricket ground of Kolkata, where many international cricket matches had been played and plenty of records had been set by different talented players. Apart from recalling the history of cricket matches played in this vast stadium, you can just enjoy its velvety green ground and rest anywhere of the surrounding stands, which currently have the capacity for holding more than 66,000 people at a time! Near this spot, you can also see Writer's Building, the red-colored historical Secretariat of West Bengal, which is currently under repair.
Kali Ghat Temple - This is an ancient temple that is extremely sacred to the Hindus, on the bank of a canal which earlier used to be the actual course of Hoogly River, but now just flows into the present course of the river. The temple complex is vast, comprising of several other temples, apart from the main altar that is dedicated to Goddess Kali; and also other building structures, used for various purposes.
St. Paul's Cathedral - It is a prominent Anglican church of North India and it is distinguished for its huge tower and spire built in Indo-Gothic style, along with the stained glass windows of attractive colors and two frescoes drawn in Italian Renaissance mode. Though it was built in the mid 19th century, this church had to be rebuilt in 1934, after being destroyed due to the earthquake. At that time, it was designed following the architecture of the central tower of the famous Canterbury Cathedral of England. You can also visit Rabindra Sadan and Nandan Cinema Complex, which are the two main cultural sites of the people of Bengal, just adjacent to this Cathedral.
Dakshineshwar Kali Temple - This temple complex was built on the bank of Hooghly River, in the 19th century, by Rani Rasmani, the queen of Janbazar in Kolkata. Apart from the main temple dedicated to Goddess Kali; there are also 12 temples that are dedicated to Lord Shiva and a Radha-Krishna temple, along with other buildings, over vast areas of 25 acres. This temple is more known for its close association to the famous Hindu saint of that time, Sri Ramkrishna Paramhansa.
Birla Mandir - Actually this huge temple of beautiful white marble is called Lakshmi Narayan Mandir though its main deities are Radha-Krishna. It is also commonly named as Birla Mandir, as it was totally funded by the Birlas, one of the richest families of India. This temple is worth seeing for its splendid architecture and stone carvings.
Birla Planetarium - This is the largest planetarium in Asia and its structure strongly resembles that of the Buddhist Sanchi Stupa. Though it is located amongst the most popular tourist sites of Kolkata, being next to St. Paul's Cathedral and opposite to Victoria Memorial; this planetarium is unique for its large observatory, containing latest astronomical equipments. You will love to watch the shows on various aspects of astronomy and space science, imparted in English, Bengali, Hindi and few other Indian languages regularly, between 12 noon to 7 pm.
Science City - This is the biggest science hub of India, planned by National Council of Science Museums in 1997. This extraordinary science complex, located on recently developed Eastern Bypass of the city is now considered as one of the major tourist attractions of Kolkata. The most popular features of this place are Dynamotion Hall, Evolution Park, Earth Exploration Hall, Space Odyssey, Maritime Center and the most enjoyable Science Park, which your kids will want to see again and again!
Eco Tourism Park - This is a newly built park in Rajarhat, in the Northern suburb of Kolkata. Inaugurated only 2 years back, it has already gained immense popularity among the common people, for amazing features, like Amphitheatre, Chinese Garden, Butterfly Garden, Bonsai garden, Cactus Walk, Bamboo Garden, Children's play corner, Water garden, Mist house and Utility corner. If you are a food-lover, you can enjoy in Food Courts and different restaurants here, including Bengali restaurant. There are 3 different kinds of Eco zones and a lake zone for the enjoyment of nature-lovers here.
Apart from the above mentioned sites, you can also drop in to see Shahid Minar, Howrah Bridge, South Park Street Cemetery; along with the famous Belur Math in close proximity to the city. Your kids will also enjoy visiting Millennium Park, Birla Technological Museum, Alipore Zoological Gardens and Agri Horticultural Garden.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9078086

Watch The Video »

A Guide to Shimla

Shimla is the Capital of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is one of India's most popular tourist spots. So there was good reason why British Empire had chosen it to be the "Summer Capital" of India.
CLIMATE:
The climate of Shimla ranges from a minimum of -7o C to maximum of 28 o C. The best climate to view the beauty of Shimla is during the summers that are the months of April to June. For those who like to try Skiing, Skating and the likes, November to January would be the best time to visit.
PLACES OF INTERESTS:
The Mall:
This is a shopping hub and has many restaurants, clubs, banks, bars etc.
Kufri:
Located 16km away from Shimla, it is famous for its Winter Sports like Ice Skating and Skiing.
Chail:
It was a summer retreat that was built by Maharaja of Patiala. It has the highest cricket pitch in the world.
Annadale:
This place, operated by Military, has lot of museums that show the Army related things. It has really long lawns that can be accessed by public. The lawns also have several flowers along the path.
Chadwick Falls:
A trip to the fall during the monsoons is an experience that must never be missed. Home to some of the old shrines, it gives immense pleasure to the tourists.
Jakhu Hill:
Its 2km from Shimla and this has an old temple of Lord Hanuman. The Hanuman Idol is staggering 108 feet high.
Shimla State Museum:
This museum has tried to protect the culture of the state which could be seen in the Pahari Paintings, Sculptures, Costumes, Jeweler and the bronze wood carvings.
Christ Church:
This is the Second Oldest Church in the Northern India. This church represents faith, hope, patience and humility.
Summer Hill:
Mahatma Gandhi visited this hill because of its quiet surroundings. Tourists looking to find peace of mind should use this place.
Tara Devi:
This temple is dedicated to Goddess of Stars on the Tara Devi Hill. This hill is also the headquarters of Bharat Scouts and Guides.
Rail Ride:
If one has to visit Shimla, never miss the rail ride that starts from Kalka and ends at Shimla. This rail line holds the Record in the Guinness Book for the steep rise in the altitude that is around 96kms.
WHERE TO STAY
Shimla is also famous for its Victorian style of Architecture. If one wishes to savor the legacy of British past, PRIM Resorts, Shimla welcome you with open arms. It's a heritage resort, built in 1893 by the British, has all it's furnishing in Victorian Style. It also houses several antiques that are over hundred years old. The Deodar trees that give an instant mood lift to the travelers surround this resort. The luxury resort is situated just 10kms away from the iconic Mall Road.

Watch The Video »

Shibuya, Sushi and Senso-Ji: Things to Do In Tokyo

Tokyo, in the 12th century was only a small fishing village called Edo. It rose to prominence in 1590 when Tokugawa Ieyasu made Edo his base and later upon becoming shogun; the center of his military government.
Since then Tokyo has been the capital of Japan and has thrived to become one of the top three cities of the world (according to different surveys). It is a unique blend of modern and old; of shrines and skyscrapers. It has goliath malls, amazing food, tranquil landscape gardens full of cherry blossoms - it is a city when pulls you in and it's hard to let go. For the tourist it is a must visit. Here we list some of the top things (mostly without cost) to do when you're in this great beast of a city.
Jog or cycle on the park paths and around broad moats which surround the Imperial Palace. There's a Palace Cycling course which you can take.
Senjo-ji is Tokyo's most famous Buddhist temple and is visited by scores of pilgrims. Join their footsteps and visit this great temple located in Asakusa. Nakamise-dori, the street along which this is located is lined with colorful shops from which you can take away cool souvenirs.
Explore the area around Tokyo's Harajuku Station. It is known as Harajuku and is located between Shibuya and Shinjuku on the Yamanote Line. It is a captivating area full of shopping and an insightful look into the teenage culture of Tokyo. For the latter visit the Takeshita Street (and its side streets), as they are full of trendy shops catering to the latest teen fashion. If you're more interested in shopping, Omotesando Avenue is the place for you, it has all the major brands as well as good cafes and restaurants serving a more adult audience. Harajuku isn't limited to shopping only; famous places like Meiji Jingu, Yoyogi Park (free to enter), Ota Memorial Museum of Art and Nezu Museum are all nearby.
Do you recall the famous crossing shown in every movie which is based in Tokyo? It's called the Shibuya crossing and a sea of humanity is seen to cross it every few minutes. Be a part of it.
For the Anime fans, Tokyo's Anime Center is a haven. It was made to market anime and hosts regular events, interviews with creators as well as voice actors and also sells unique merchandise. If you love your anime (as you should) be sure to visit this.
If you wish to get away from the bustle of the main city, look no further than any one of Tokyo's beautiful botanical gardens. The ones which are free to enter include Happoen near Shirokanedai Station, and those attached to the Four Seasons Chinzan-so and the New Otani Hotel in Akasaka.
And be sure to catch any of the numerous weekly festivals which take place in different areas of Tokyo. Fire walking, cherry blossom viewing and parades, these make for fun viewing.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9078863

Watch The Video »

Strasbourg - The European Gem

It may sound like a German name and it may have a German neighbor, but Strasbourg belongs to France and is in fact the capital city of its Alsace region.
Aside from being the home to significant European institutions like the European Court of Human Rights, and the European Parliament; Strasbourg is also known as rich historical place, particularly for the Grande Ile, which stands as the city center, the first of its kind to be hailed a UNESCO Heritage Site. The Grande Ile, which is a fortified medieval town, is where you can find Strasbourg's most impressive monuments and buildings like the Place Gutenberg, the Aubette and the Place Kleber, which are the main center square. It is therefore, only natural to begin your exploration of Strasbourg here.
Despite its long and highly celebrated history, the city exudes a dynamic and young vibe. Strasbourg allows you to experience arts and culture at their finest with its opera houses, theaters, museums and concert venues. Although the lingua franca is definitely French, you can still hear German being spoken in some of its areas.
When you head to the city's Old Town, one structure that will surely immediately captivate your imagination and take you back to the medieval times is the Strasbourg Cathedral. It is hard not to gaze at this cathedral with the greatest admiration as it is a magnificent representation of the Gothic art. Even from afar, it is difficult to miss this grand structure with its most recognizable 142-meter spire.
After seeing the Cathedral, take the chance to get lost in the alleys of Strasbourg's oldest section and enjoy the view of the lovely half-timbered houses lining the streets. If you get tired of walking around, take a rest at one of the cozy Alsatian style taverns also called winstubs. You can find a number of them at an area called Petite France. But this quarter is no ordinary place, as it considered by many to be the most scenic in Old Strasbourg! Here, you will notice many waterways as well as 16th and 17th century homes - all of which add to the eternal charm of Petite France.
Do you want to see Strasbourg from a different and very interesting perspective? Take the popular Batorama boat tour and you will get to experience all its major attractions in 70 minutes! As you cruise through the river canals, you will get great views of the Neustadt Imperial quarter, the Covered Bridges the Vauban dam, the tanner's quarter, the European institutional buildings and many more! Plus there will be a recorded commentary to inform and entertain you throughout your tour.
And if you have the time, don't just settle for the city center (no matter how alluring it may be). Go ahead and rent a bicycle; and like most locals, cycle to the different districts of Strasbourg. You will soon discover that each has its own personalities and charm.
To learn more about the best ways of experiencing Strasbourg, visit the Tourist Office on Place de la Cathedrale. The office serves the public from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, and also offers a range of excursions including bike tours and self-guided themed walking tours around the city.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9080333

Watch The Video »

Lagos, Portugal

A European summer holiday with family or friends can sound like a dream come true. However, there are more than the usual big cities or celebrity hot spots that should be considered as the destination. Lagos is one of those great places that gives travelers their money's worth when visiting and would explain why many Europeans flock there on their own summer retreats.
This is a port city found in southern Portugal and its history is so varied and interesting. It was instrumental to the Portuguese when they were exploring the world by means of the sea and would later attract many corsairs and pirates. Keeping that in mind, there are plenty of historical and architectural sites to take in during your stay. For example, St. Anthony's Church and St. Sebastian's Church are two places that shouldn't be missed. St. Anthony's, with its Baroque style, was built in 1707 to replace an even older church. St. Anthony's Church also houses the impressive Dr. Jose Formosinho Municipal Museum in an annex. The museum is broken up into several different sections covering: archaeology, sacred art, history of Lagos, ethnography of the Algarve, numismatics, mineralogy, and overseas ethnography.
St. Sebastian's Church was built in the 14th century and has a very interesting annex: a small bones chapel. If you have little ones that would be a bit traumatized by seeing skulls on the walls, either skip it or take turns watching the kids while the other goes in to view this. After touring St. Sebastian's you can either stop for some coffee or a small but delicious meal. If you want to continue exploring, visit the Governor's Castle or the Mercado de Escravos (slave market). The first was built in the 17th century and. Although it is a sad thing indeed that there was ever a slave market, it is part of the history of Lagos and Europe in general since this was the first slave market on the continent.
As always, there are lodging options for every taste and price point. If you don't want to be right in the center of town, there's always Quinta das Achadas. This is a farmhouse with 3 self-serve apartments where you can relax. When not touring Lagos ten minutes away, the pool here beckons travelers. However, if being in the center of town and the action is extremely important one can always stay at Tivoli Lagos. This four-star property allows you to explore the town and the beach. It has a free shuttle to take guests to the Duna Beach Club during their stay.
Whether you stay and explore Lagos during your entire vacation or perhaps venture out and have day trips, by the end of the holiday you'll be glad to have chosen Lagos as the destination. History, lovely beaches, and great food: the right ingredients for a fantastic time!

Sabrina Toth is a certified travel associate and owner of Toth International. Toth International is a travel management company that caters to the entertainment industry. For help with your travel needs

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9080873

Watch The Video »

A Guide to Beautiful Manali

Manali is a beautiful hill station nestled in the serene solitude of beautiful Beas valley at a height of 2,050 meters. Covered with alluring monasteries, sightseeing locations, lofty peaks, adventure avenues and so much more, this top hill station in India is the perfect get-away for travellers to unwind.
The crown of a destination 'Manali' is studded with number of glittering jewels in the form of places of tourist attractions. Let's face it; you don't come to Manali every day. So to ensure that you get the most out of your trip, we have come up with a detailed guide on must visit places in Manali.
Here is a guide to make your vacation to the Switzerland of India a filling one.

• To start off with, jot down the most popular tourist places of Manali and mark those that interest you.


• If you are an adventure enthusiast, prepare a list of adventure sports offered at this elevated town of Himachal and select the ones you would take part in.


• Now search the most convenient as well as value for money accommodation in the city. Prim Resorts can be a rewarding choice given its strategic location, pristine panorama and commendable hospitality.


• Now accordingly pack your bags and arrange itineraries. Follow these and your trip would be a remarkable experience.

Manali is a destination that serves all kinds of tourists, be they adrenaline junkies, history buffs, romantic couples, family on vacation or nature lovers. Manali has its own unique charm to please every guest. Here is a detailed list of places to see in Manali on your trip to this marvelous land.

• Solang Valley - Just the right place for adventure seekers, one can indulge in activities like paragliding, trekking, rock climbing, zorbing etc. at this snow-laden destination.


• Old Manali - Experience the richness of nature here and revel in splendid sightseeing.


• Mall Road - Satisfy the urges of the shopaholic inside you and binge on some traditional fabrics and historic artifacts.


• Rohtang Pass - A truly exhilarating destination, this mountain pass is one to marvel at and serves as the connection to various tourist cities of Himachal like Leh and Ladakh.


• Naggar Castle - A 15th century old palace, this castle is a retreat for history buffs.


• Tibetan Monasteries - Visit Manali Gompa, Nyingamapa Gompa, Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa and many more in Manali to experience peace and tranquility.


• Vashist Temple & Hadimba Temple - These two are one of the most famous temples of the town and are a must visit for Hindu Pilgrims.


• Jagatsukh Temple - A beautifully carved temple, this place is merely 6 kilometers from the main Manali town and an eminent attraction of the city.


• Beas Kund Valley - Watch erratic Beas River flow with its entire splendor here and treat you with activities like river rafting, river crossing or a romantic getaway.


• Bhrigu Lake - Conspicuous as "Pool of Gods", this sightseeing location attracts a plethora of visitors every year.


• Pandoh Dam - Built in 1977, the dam is constructed at a picturesque location and is a getaway for photography and nature lovers.

Where to stay in Manali?
Once you have made up your mind on visiting Manali. The next big question is where to stay in Manali? There is this offbeat resort in Manali you will find suitable to your rich taste.
Prim Resorts at Your Service
The boutique resort, away from the noisy clutter of urban Manali, is the best place to stay in Manali. Let us be your guide and a facilitator in this memorable tour of yours. With our skilled travel desk and efficient management we promise to make your journey to this beautiful hill station an unforgettable one.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9080915

Watch The Video »

5 Awesome Places To Visit In Tiruvannamalai

Tiruvannamalai is an Indian town in Tamil Nadu. If you are a tourist, the town has many great places that you can visit. Some of these places include:
Sri Ramana Ashram
Also known as Sri Ramanasramam, Sri Ramana Ashram is a shrine that is dedicated to Raman Maharshi who was an Advaita Vedanta philosopher. Ramana stayed here for over 28 years. The shrine is located at the foot of Arunachala hill and is regularly flocked by thousands of seekers. Many people visit the place in order to be close to the philosopher.
Arunachaleswarar Temple
Also known as Annamalaiyar temple, this temple enshrines Lord Annamalai and Goddess Unnamalai. Inside the temple ashes and Kumkum are offered as Prasad to all the devotees. The temple is located at the base of Annamalai hills and is open daily from 5.30 a.m. up to 9.30 p.m.
The temple covers 10 hectares making it one of the largest temples in India. It houses shrines, towers and many halls. One of the most notable halls is the thousand-pillared hall that was built during the Vijayanagar period.
Virupaksha Cave
This is where Sri Ramana lived for seventeen years. The cave is located in the eastern slopes of Arunachala. The cave is in the shape of the syllable "Om." If you want to relax, there is a stone couch outside the main cave.
The cave gets its name from Virupaksha Deva who was a renowned saint in the 13th century. Its believed that Virupaksha spent most of his life in the cave and its surrounding. After his death, his body was turned into ashes which are preserved at the cave's altar.
Adi Annamalai Temple
It's the oldest temple in the city and it was built over 2000 years ago. The name of the temple means "first" or "ancient." It's not as large as Arunachaleswarar temple, but it has very ancient architectural designs which will mesmerize you.
The architecture of the temple is based on stories of different deities which are illustrated in the form of images. In addition to the many images of deities, the temple also has many mini Lord Ganesha's statues.
Sri Ramanasrama
It's a peaceful place that is located 2km southwest of the city center. It's named after Sri Ramana Maharishi who was one of the first Hindu gurus to have an international following. Maharishi died in 1950. Many people from all over the world visit this place in order to enjoy the pure peace and simplicity that the place has to offer.

There are many other places that you can visit in Tiruvannamalai. For example, you can visit Idukku Pillayar among many other places. Welcome and enjoy the beauty of Tiruvannamalai!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9078836

Watch The Video »

Taking A Look At The Things That You Can Do In Tiruvannamalai

Tiruvannamalai town is a popular abode of Lord Shiva. The cool thing with the town is that it's located at an area where you can easily access it using air, train and road. If you are using air, the easiest access to the town is through Chennai airport that is 185 km away.
From Chennai, you should use road transport and it will take you 3.5 hours to get to Tiruvannamalai. There are many modes of road transport that you can use. For example, you can use taxis and buses. If you are using a taxi, you should expect to pay about Rs 2500. There are also many buses available. The cool thing with buses is that they are much cheaper than taxis.
What to Do In Tiruvannamalai
There are many things that you can do in Tiruvannamalai. Some of the things that you can do include:
Girivalam: this is a very popular activity where you walk barefoot around the Tiruvannamalai hill. Many people believe that the mountain is an incarnation of Lord Shiva; therefore, when you are walking around it you are walking on a holy ground. It's believed that when you walk around the mountain you will have a good fortune.
Grivalam is popular during the full moon day. It's also common during the first day of every Tamil month. The walk starts at the Arunachaleswara temple. This is also the place where the walk ends. The path is around 13 km. The cool thing is that the entire path is well maintained with concrete; therefore, you don't have to worry of hurting your legs. If you have a disability, you are allowed to use your wheelchair to "walk" around.
By foot, the walk takes 3-5 hours while by bicycle it takes 60-90 minutes. If you want to use a bicycle, you will have to rent it for Rs 10 per trip.
Karthigai Deepam festival: it's the most important festival in Tiruvannamalai and it's celebrated during the months of November and December. The most important event during the festival is the lighting of Deepam which is a large lamp made with many liters of ghee and a cotton wick that is several meters long. When the Deepam is lit, the light can be seen within a 30 km diameter.
The event is usually a big event as the radio stations and televisions in Tamil Nadu broadcast it live.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9078920

Watch The Video »

Thrissur - A Culturally-Rich City With Some Amazing Festivals

Thrissur is the third-largest city in Kerala. It is one of the cities where one can see a perfect culmination between the age-old traditions and the thriving modern-world. The city was originally called "Tiru-Shiva-Peru" which means the "big city of Lord Shiva". During the Britishers era the city was called Trichur, which is the anglicised version of the original name. Besides, the city was also called "Vrishabhadri Puram" and "Then Kailasam", both being related to Lord Shiva. Today, the city is one of the important commercial hubs of the state and is a modern city that is full of all parameters of modernization. The city is also the home to the headquarters of the Thrissur district that was formed following the independence of the country in 1949. This makes the city politically significant. Additionally, the city is also a prime centre of religious learning, which is a long-running tradition in the city since its origin.
The city shares excellent connectivity. Thus accessing it is an easy affair. The Thrissur railway station is a major railhead in the southern railway zone of Indian Railways and connects the city to all major cities in India. The good thing is that there are certain hotels near Thrissur railway station that are best known for offering a satisfactory stay at reasonable price.
The city is popularly called the "Cultural Capital of Kerala". There exist a large number of temples, churches, spiritual learning centres, mosques, shrines, and dance and literature academies. It is one of the most festival-rich, colorful city where every festival is celebrated with most fervor regardless of the religion. Thrissur Pooram which is also called as "the Pooram of all Poorams" is the most-celebrated festival in the city and falls between mid-April and mid-May. Kavakli or Puri Kali is the other biggest festival in the city. It is celebrated during Onam and is a major attraction puller. Trained artists perform different types of art forms and entertain the pilgrims and tourists. If one is about exploring and experiencing culture, the aforementioned festivals are the best time for Thrissur tourism.
The literal lineage of the city dates centuries back. It didn't take long for the city to gain a religious and-learning-hub-like significance since its origin. The city has one of the oldest and most-important temples of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. These are the Vadakkunnathan temple and the Guruvayur temple. Other than being the chief venues to worship, the temples were also the major religious learning centres. It can be said that the city is a melting pot of different religions and cultures. The region was the main entry-point from where Christianity, Judaism, and Islam entered the Indian subcontinent. The city also came to house the first ever mosque in India, the Cheraman Juma Masjid in 629 A.D.
The contemporary Thrissur is more inclined towards modernization. However, it still gives immense significance to its past, tradition, and cultural heritages. The city is a nursery for many entrepreneurs. It is one of the most developed cities in Kerala and a proof of the state's progress. It is a heaven for the shoppers. With a string of ultra-modern shopping-centres the city offers rewarding opportunities to shop anything and everything. Plus, these shopping malls are also equipped with some finest restaurants and eating joints. A couple of most-significant attractions of the city include: Chavakkad Beach, Athirapally Waterfalls, Kerala Kalamandalam, Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary, Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, Vadakkumnathan Temple, State Museum Complex, Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, Bible Tower, Chavakkad Beach, Vazhachal Falls, and Basilica of Our Lady of Dolours.
Simply visit the city for a memorable holiday. Booking advance flights tickets and hotels in Thrissur is advisable because during the peak seasons there is a horde of people eager to book their tickets and hotels.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9088624

Watch The Video »

4 Ideas for Self-Guided Tours in Lake Havasu City

If you are a globetrotter, you would obviously prefer to roam around the world on your own. While guided tours let you know about the history and heritage of a place to a great extent, self-guided tours have got their own charm. If you are planning to explore Lake Havasu City on your own, here are four ideas worth trying -

• Explore the outdoor locations - No matter whether you are going with a small group of friends or traveling all alone, you would surely love to explore the outdoor locations of Lake Havasu City. Simply take a relaxed walk around the wide open lake, explore the hiking trails around, or just relax on those vast pristine beaches - you can enjoy some of the best moments of your Lake Havasu City tour on these outdoor locations.
• Go for a combined tour - Planning to celebrate a crazy bachelorette weekend, full of thrill and excitement? If yes, simply opt for a combined tour plan. Indulge in some adventurous water sports, pamper yourselves with some of the most rejuvenating spa and massages, and check out the delicious cuisines at the city's various restaurants.
• Opt for bird watching - If you are passionate about wildlife and would love to do some bird watching, Lake Havasu City is your ideal destination. It has a wonderful ecological diversity and you can get to explore a different habitat just by driving an hour or so in any direction from the central location. In fact, you can visit the Bill Williams National Refuge that is located at 23 miles south of the city.
• Explore the local areas - If you are planning to stay in the city itself, consider roaming around on your own and get the essence of the local charm. You may even go for a city tour or a tour of the London Bridge. While strolling around the channel, be sure to explore the shops under the Bridge. Consider exploring the local breweries during the evenings and enjoy the local essence of the city. If you are looking for some extra adventure, consider going on a self-guided ghost tour of the London Bridge during the evenings.

These are some of the best ideas to explore Lake Havasu City on your own. If you take special interest in history and would love to know about the history of Lake Havasu City, you can also consider taking a tour of the Lake Havasu Museum of History.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9090244

Watch The Video »