Discovering the Treasures of Dijon France

You may have heard of Dijon because of the mustard that was named after it and is now distributed worldwide. But Dijon is also considered by many as one of the prettiest cities in France.
With its grand palaces, historic buildings, medieval streets,and lovely stores, Dijon is one of the must-see places in the renowned wine region of Burgundy. Amidst its strong medieval past, the city has emerged as cosmopolitan and partly industrialized. At the city center, you will find universities including the University of Burgundy, which brings in the young and more energetic crowd. But in other parts, Dijon remains generally laidback and quiet.
The owl or la chouette has been the icon of Dijon since the early 16th century. You will find this creature sculpted on the side of the Notre-Dame church. Despite World War II dawning upon this French region, Dijon's architectural jewels remain largely preserved. The town's great history includes being the chosen capital of the Dukes of Burgundy, who were at the height of their power during the 14th and 15th century. Aside from their political conquests, these Dukes are known for their penchant for the arts. Thus, it's not surprising that Dijon had become the regional center for music, painting, sculpture and architecture during the Gothic and early Renaissance times.
Head out to the Palais des Ducs et des Etats de Bourgogne (The Ducal Palace), and you will find the impressive Musèe des Beaux-Arts that showcases the massive number of valuable art pieces the city accumulated over the centuries since the Roman Period. Another great thing about this exquisite museum is entrance is free! After visiting Musèe des Beaux-Arts, make your way to the Philippe Le Bon tower attached to the Ducal Palace. You will need to climb 316 steps to reach the top but you will be rewarded with a gorgeous view of Dijon at the end. Another notable museum and a worthwhile cultural site is the Museum of Archaeology tucked within the Abbey Benigne.
One of the best things to do in Dijon is to just soak in the atmosphere by strolling around its most prominent areas like the Place Franáois Rude (Place du Bareuzai) which is another famous spot where locals love to hang out. The place is home to lavish traditional homes, a fountain and sculpture and a selection of bars and cafes.
The market hall or Les Halles is one of the liveliest places in Dijon and is an architectural gem, designed by Gustave Eiffel, the same architect who designed Eiffel Tower. It is highly recommended that you stop by this site especially during market days, which are Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. Here, you will find nice stores with lavish interiors, clothing boutiques, cafes and patisserie shops. And if you are looking for the local mustard to bring home, this place is certainly selling lots of it.
You can also do the self-guided walk around the city called Parcours de la chouette. The walk has 22 stops, which are marked by owl arrows and numbered owl plates placed in the ground. Before doing the walk, you can head over to the tourist office to grab guide book which gives a detailed description about each stop or attraction. If you feel you will easily get exhausted walking around, another viable option is to cycle. Dijon is cycle friendly city, and public bicycles are always available for rental at the 40 bike stands found in the city center.

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Chengdu China and Its Amazing Pandas

Chengdu's Shuanglui International airport is one of the busiest airports in the world. This makes the city an important international transport hub for the country. In addition, Chengdu is also the known gateway to the fascinating country of Tibet. In fact, once you step into this Chinese city, it is not hard to encounter Tibetans or taste Tibetan food. Just to its west lie two incredibly scenic natural areas, which are the Huanglong National Park and Jiuzhaigou National Park.
But Chengdu is much more than just a place of transit. It actually offers travelers an opportunity to see marvelous attractions and enjoy authentic cultural experiences. After spending a few hours exploring the city, you will soon find that it is quite laidback and has a lot of green space, making it a very livable city despite its massive size. Once here, don't forget to try out a local tea house at the riverside or the Kuanzhaixiangzi area, which is adorned with streets were built during the Qing dynasty.
At the center of Chengdu is Tianfu Square, marked by the large statue of Chairman Mao. Come by the square at noon or early evening and you will be treated to a water show accompanied by music. If you are looking for lively local action, take a walk along the old street called Kuanzhai Lane, or the People's Park where there is always some kind of singing, dancing and other forms of entertainment going on.
A visit to Chengdu is never complete without taking a closer look at the cuddly and adorable giant pandas. You can find these endangered creatures at the Chengdu Panda Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, which is the largest facility of its kind in the world. The primary objective of the Panda Base is to spearhead wildlife conservation efforts by promoting educational tourism instead of the novelty approach.
Currently, the research center takes care of about 60 giant pandas, but it is also home to black-necked cranes and red pandas. Aside from seeing the pandas up close, the facility is also equipped with a museum and a theater that showcases documentaries about these famous endangered animals. There is also a restaurant where you can dine as well as some stalls for souvenir shopping The best time to visit the panda center is in the early in the morning, at around 8 to 9 AM when the pandas are wide awake ready for feeding.
Nestled on Futou Mountain in a setting that simulates that panda's natural ecological environment, the Panda Base is only 10 kilometers north of Chengdu. You can easily ask your hotel or hostel to arrange a trip to the research center for you. Another option is to take a taxi from the downtown area or the public bus.
If you are unable to make it all the way to the center, you can always visit the Chengdu Zoo, which also houses panda bears as well as other interesting array of animals. If you still have a day at the Chengdu area, make your way to the Giant Buddha in Leshan, considered to be the largest one in the world.

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The Wonders of Santa Fe, New Mexico

Rising above 7,000 ft, Santa Fe is the capital of New Mexico and is soaked in a rich and vibrant history. There are a myriad of fascinating wonders in Santa Fe that a description of all would barely scratch the surface. Whether you're looking for architectural bliss, relaxing in the outdoors or exploring diverse cultures, Santa Fe is the place to be. The scenic Wonders of Santa Fe, New Mexico does not only stop at the Rio Grande, but includes a whole new landscape flourished with vivid colors. The Grande provides 40% of the city's water supply, and initiates from the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and gently flows through the capital.
Set on 199 acres of a former guest ranch, the Santa Fe Opera House is just 7 miles away from the city, and was founded in the year 1956. This music and theater production hall is recognized as one of the pioneers in cultural festivals and is set within a breathtaking backdrop. The Opera house attracts more than 80,000 visitors per year, and has facilitated more than 140 different opera and 140,000 distinct performances. Some of the renowned acts held here are Osvaldo Golijov's Ainadamar, American premiere of Tan Dun's Tea, The Tempest and the world premiere of Madame Mao.
Famous for its Romanesque architecture, the St Francis Cathedral is located in downtown Santa Fe, and was built in 1886 by Archbishop Baptiste Lamy. The cathedral due to its Roman influence and in contrast with the community is dominated by round arches, truncated towers, and windows imported from Clermont Ferrand in France. The cathedral was restored in 1986, which brought in new doors and bronze panels. What makes this cathedral one of the most significant wonders in this city is the fact that it is the longest running congregations in the United States.
The Canyon Road is rather one of the picturesque wonders in New Mexico and is within close proximity of a number of hotels, dining options and bed and breakfasts. The charm on Canyon Road is created by adobe architecture, and its diversity simply enhances its appeal. The Canyon Road is a great destination for discerning collectors as it expresses figurative, modern, contemporary, traditional and abstract art. While on Canyon Road, the boutiques and jewelry stores that run alongside are worth the visit for their unique fashions, sculptures, photography and dazzling handmade adornments.
Tucked away in a breathtaking natural setting, the Hyde Memorial Park is one of the must see wonders of New Mexico. Geographically set in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the park is just 8 miles away from the capital, and is a popular location for winter tubing on the snow covered peaks and camping and hiking in the summer. The aforementioned are just a few of the many wonders of Santa Fe, New Mexico to visit, without which your trip would be incomplete.

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Bharatpur - The Birdwatcher's Home of Keoladeo National Park

Rajasthan certainly is an amazing place with so many surprises. Home to a great history and rich cultural heritage the state is one of the places that best exhibit the features of the conventional India. It houses a string of interesting destinations, and Bharatpur is one of them. Founded by the Jat king Suraj Mal, Bharatpur is the former capital of the Jat kingdom. King Suraj Mal unveiled the city in 1733 and following him many popular kings of his dynasty ruled the city. Named after Lord Rama's brother Bharata, the city is was once known as an impregnable kingdom. It housed a grandiose fort called the Lohagarh Fort (the iron fortress), which still exists today. Aptly named, the fort withstood a number of British attacks. It housed three beautiful palaces and was the seat of the maharajas. These imperial buildings are a historical marvel exhibiting the best culmination of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles.
Bharatpur is also a religious city. The existence of a number of temples and shrines, such as Laxmi Mandir, Ganga Mandir, a Gurudwara, and Jama Masjid consolidates the fact that the place saw some great architectural innovation of the times. In this part, Lord Krishna is followed and worshiped the most, and it is believed that the past kings of Bharatpur were ardent devotees of this deity.
The city is an imperative part of Rajasthan state and is regarded as the "Eastern Gateway" to the state. It has long been a major highlight in north-western India tourism. The old forts, palaces, and religious shrines attract travelers from all over India to the city. However, it is the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary in particular that beckons backpackers to visit this amazing place. The other popular attractions of city include: Lohagarh Fort, The Palace, Government Museum, Moti Mahal, Jawahar Burj, Kishori Mahal, Ganga Mandir, and Laxman Mandir. The good thing is Bharatpur is a small city and all tourist attractions are easily accessible. One can easily hire local transportation resources to access the tourist sites. As a plus, some good hotels in Bharatpur also offer the transportation services.
The sanctuary is today better known as Keoladeo National Park and is the prime reason for Bharatpur to receive the large influx of travelers. It is a bird sanctuary and a world heritage site. Located just a few kilometers from the centre of the city, the national park is one of the best protected forests in India. There exists a temple of Lord Shiva on whom the national park is named. It was declared a national park in 1982 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Spread across an area of about 29 k.m. sq. and generally housing wetlands, swamps, woodlands, and dry grasslands, the national park is known for being the home to about 366 species of birds. It is a heaven for the bird-watchers and according to Sir Peter Scott, a British conservationist, is the "best bird area". It is particularly famous for Siberian cranes from the Arctic, migratory birds from Afghanistan, Bareheaded Geese from China, and Siberian Greyleg Geese. Although the sanctuary remains busy with travelers year-long but the best time for bird-watching is between October and February. Jungle safari is organized on daily basis and any type of hunting is strictly prohibited.
Since the city is a popular tourist destination, it is filled with a number of lodging options. Accommodation here comes in all budget brackets. If one is looking for a value-for-money accommodation, the budget hotels in Bharatpur are ideal options to pick.

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Bharatpur - The Birdwatcher's Home of Keoladeo National Park

Rajasthan certainly is an amazing place with so many surprises. Home to a great history and rich cultural heritage the state is one of the places that best exhibit the features of the conventional India. It houses a string of interesting destinations, and Bharatpur is one of them. Founded by the Jat king Suraj Mal, Bharatpur is the former capital of the Jat kingdom. King Suraj Mal unveiled the city in 1733 and following him many popular kings of his dynasty ruled the city. Named after Lord Rama's brother Bharata, the city is was once known as an impregnable kingdom. It housed a grandiose fort called the Lohagarh Fort (the iron fortress), which still exists today. Aptly named, the fort withstood a number of British attacks. It housed three beautiful palaces and was the seat of the maharajas. These imperial buildings are a historical marvel exhibiting the best culmination of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles.
Bharatpur is also a religious city. The existence of a number of temples and shrines, such as Laxmi Mandir, Ganga Mandir, a Gurudwara, and Jama Masjid consolidates the fact that the place saw some great architectural innovation of the times. In this part, Lord Krishna is followed and worshiped the most, and it is believed that the past kings of Bharatpur were ardent devotees of this deity.
The city is an imperative part of Rajasthan state and is regarded as the "Eastern Gateway" to the state. It has long been a major highlight in north-western India tourism. The old forts, palaces, and religious shrines attract travelers from all over India to the city. However, it is the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary in particular that beckons backpackers to visit this amazing place. The other popular attractions of city include: Lohagarh Fort, The Palace, Government Museum, Moti Mahal, Jawahar Burj, Kishori Mahal, Ganga Mandir, and Laxman Mandir. The good thing is Bharatpur is a small city and all tourist attractions are easily accessible. One can easily hire local transportation resources to access the tourist sites. As a plus, some good hotels in Bharatpur also offer the transportation services.
The sanctuary is today better known as Keoladeo National Park and is the prime reason for Bharatpur to receive the large influx of travelers. It is a bird sanctuary and a world heritage site. Located just a few kilometers from the centre of the city, the national park is one of the best protected forests in India. There exists a temple of Lord Shiva on whom the national park is named. It was declared a national park in 1982 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Spread across an area of about 29 k.m. sq. and generally housing wetlands, swamps, woodlands, and dry grasslands, the national park is known for being the home to about 366 species of birds. It is a heaven for the bird-watchers and according to Sir Peter Scott, a British conservationist, is the "best bird area". It is particularly famous for Siberian cranes from the Arctic, migratory birds from Afghanistan, Bareheaded Geese from China, and Siberian Greyleg Geese. Although the sanctuary remains busy with travelers year-long but the best time for bird-watching is between October and February. Jungle safari is organized on daily basis and any type of hunting is strictly prohibited.
Since the city is a popular tourist destination, it is filled with a number of lodging options. Accommodation here comes in all budget brackets. If one is looking for a value-for-money accommodation, the budget hotels in Bharatpur are ideal options to pick.

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Get Drenched in the Serenity of Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

The island - Sri Lanka is world-known for its exotic geographical setting. It has been blessed with the sheer creativity of nature. Nuwara Eliya is one among the most fascinating cities of Sri Lanka. The name of the city has been translated as the city of lights primarily because of the glorious wonders that it comprises within its territory. The city is replete with heart touching vistas and sights which you will come across while exploring it. The scenic views of sweet water buffalo daubed in an iridescent tint for the Tamil Thai Pongal festival will swipe you off your feet. One of the best scenes of the city includes the dusty and misty centre of town which serves as the backdrop of the Victorian post office featuring a classy clock tower and other fascinating sights. This glorious city represents the colonial times with its English country styled dwellings. The interesting Colonial and graceful half-timbered bungalows with green hedgerows and sweet-smelling rose gardens in the city reveal the essence of nature in its purest forms. Not just the bungalows, even their names showcase the English influence.
Nuwara Eliya affirms to be a perfect place to escape from the monotonous life of the people. The best way to escape from the busy life is to enjoy the weather here amidst the natural setting but also about brewing the best tea surrounded by aromatic tea gardens. Not just the tea gardens, one can also rejuvenate oneself by indulging in a game of golf in the elegantly lying golf course. If you are different from the serene-kind, then go for some adventure with some activities like horse racing and off road hill climbs via sports car. With such fascinations, this elegant city of Sri Lanka affirms to be a perfect tourist delight. However, some other places of interest are:
The Holy Trinity Church: favorite spot among the travelers, the church showcases charming Gothic architecture and collection of memorials.
Victoria Park and Gregory's Lake: The Park stretches itself to about 27 acres and has been adorned with magnificent lake that beautifies the park all the more. The bunch of tall eucalyptuses in the park is not to be missed while exploring the place with boat rides.
Central Market and Bale Bazaar: It is the best place to explore the local hues of the region via its clothes, handicrafts, authentic food and other related stuffs.
Festivals in Nuwara Eliya: Vesak Poya is the most prominent festival which is celebrated on full moon night in May. The full moon during this day marks the Buddha's origin, his illumination as well as his passing. With the moon shining, the sky further gets decorated by the sky lanterns and the island flickers with stunning clay coconut oil lamps.

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Moradabad - The Brass City of Uttar Pradesh and a Popular Tourist Destination

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Moradabad, better known as "Brass City" or "Peetal Nagri", is a chief industrial city in Uttar Pradesh. It is a major revenue city where the production of brass products and handicrafts is the main industry. The handicrafts products produced by the city alone account for 40 percent and above of the total handicrafts exported by India. The handicraft export business of the city is a multibillion dollars business and thus a key contributor to the state's economy. It is the administrative headquarter of the district with the same name and heavily populated. Since the city is a chief provider of work and opportunities, it is also a major educational hub. So, people in large masses come to Moradabad searching for work opportunities and good education.
Moradabad is one of the major cities of Uttar Pradesh. Lucknow, the capital of the state, is about 344 k.m. south-east of Moradabad. There are frequent buses and privately operated taxis and cabs running between the two cities. Compared to the state's capital, the city is much closer to the nation's capital; Delhi is about 167 k.m. away. There are national highways and other roadways connecting the city with Agra, Delhi, Noida, Dehradun, and Haridwar. Besides, accessing the city via trains is perhaps the most convenient and budget friendly mode to reach Moradabad. In fact, the Moradabad Railway Station is a major railway station of Indian Railways. It is counted amongst the top 100 railway stations in India. Additionally, an airport is under construction on the outskirts of the city that will connect Moradabad with all major Indian cities. As for now, the Pantnagar Airport of Dehradun is the nearest operational airport. The good thing is that one can easily get taxis and cabs to the airport from the main market. Besides, some of the top-rated budget hotels in Moradabad also offer airport pick and drop service.
Lately, with the growth of tourism in India, there is an increase in the number of tourists visiting the city. Filled with some captivating tourist allures, the city is one of the top tourist haunts in central northern India. Brass handicrafts are undoubtedly the prime attractions. The city is known for the beautiful brass utensils, interior decor, and figurines. The Metal World and Bartan Bazaar are the two best places in the city where one can get brass handicrafts.
Moradabad is also popular for its history. The culture of the city is highly influenced by the past Hindu kings and Muslim rulers. Before the region was captured by the Muslim rulers, the place was ruled by Panchalas, Nandas, Mauryans, Guptas and Maukharis. The foundation of the present Moradabad was laid by Rustam Khan, the Governor of Sambhal under the Mughal empire. He established the city in 1625 A.D. and named it after prince Murad Baksh. He also built a Jama Masjid in the locality, still existing in the city. Not only the masjid is a revered religious centre but it is also a popular tourist spot.
The other popular tourist attractions of the city include: Raza Library, Pataleshwar Temple, Kanva Ashram, Bade Hanuman Ji Mandir, Sai Temple, Mandawar Ka Mahal, Sita Temple, Lord Shani Temple, Rambagh Dham, Najibudaulah's Fort, Prem Wonderland and Prem Water Kingdom, etc. There are a number tour companies that one may contact. Plus, some of the hotels from Moradabad hotels list also offer tour services to their guests.

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Tradition and Tourism in Florence

Tourism in Florence is above all art tourism. The artistic past of this city is a great reminder that pushes millions of people every year to reach the famous Renaissance town in Tuscany.
The sights of Florence are different because many works of the highest importance that follow each other in the old town: the Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, the Uffizi Gallery, the Vasari Corridor. They are just some of the works that have made Florence famous in the world as one of the most important cities.
In addition to the great artistic heritage the Tuscan capital also offers more to visitors. The city is also one of the most popular spots for food and fine wines that are produced on the Tuscan hills near Florence.
Then there are the streets and historic squares typical of the city where even today you can see small shops that continue a tradition of craftsmanship handed down for centuries, small artisan shops that deal with local products. Some of them work for the famous antique shops of the city, these activities are concentrated in the historic Oltrarno, always the most characteristic and genuine of Florence, where you can still live the past and the small traditions. In this place the city is still the center of life in this neighborhood.
Speaking of workshops we have to remember the legendary goldsmith shops of Ponte Vecchio, which represent a real knowledge and tradition with regard to the processing of gold, so that in the city there are some schools that teach the ancient goldsmith processing methods. Goldsmith students who annually come from all parts of the world, excited to learn the ancient techniques.
Florence today is however not only tradition, the city has also become an important fashion center and absolute class events performer, like Pitti Moda.
Pitti in Florence is held in two annual events that bring to Florence the greatest designers and fashion personalities.In addition to being a major exhibition that attracts worldwide buyers Pitti is also a great event on the streets, transforming Florence for a few days.
Another event of the highest level which is held every two years in Florence is the Biennale of Antiques, where an exhibition has the most important antique dealers in the world, where antiques of the highest level are offered for sale, many of which are worthy of the most important museums.
Along with these great events there are so many appointments throughout the year, events that relate to the areas and the various interests; music of all kinds, exhibitions dedicated to the greatest contemporary artists and cultural debates, together with the many food and wine events.

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Daman - An Old City on Western Coast of India Bewitching Travellers With Unspoiled Natural Beauty

Daman is a city in Daman and Diu which is a union territory of India. Included in the Republic of India in the year 1961, the place was under the reign of Portuguese for more than 400 years. Portuguese took over the control of the region in 1539, a few years after the arrival of the first Portuguese ship on Daman port. They held their sway over the lands till 1539 when the Indian paramilitary force finally seized the lands out of Portuguese control. Today, the city is a municipal council in the district of Daman and is the seat of judicial administration.
Situated on the western coast of India the union territory is neighbored by the states of Gujarat and Maharashtra. Mumbai and Baroda are the two nearest major airports from the city. The distances are 170 k.m. and 300 k.m., respectively. There is also a small local airport in Nani Daman. It is small, yet equipped with all the modern amenities. There are a couple of good cheap hotels in Daman that are situated close to the local airport. These hotels are ideal options to pick from if one seeks the advantages of staying at a good hotel that have the advantages of close connectivity to airport.
Surat, one of the chief commerce cities in western India, is quite close to Daman and Mumbai, the commerce capital of India, is about 160 k.m. away. The city is easily accessible from the prime commerce cities of Western India that are in the neighborhoods of Daman. The National Highway 8 is the connecting road between Daman and nearby Indian cities. In addition to the roads, the city primarily depends on the railway lines for connecting it to all major Indian cities. The nearest railhead to Daman is in Vapi, the other chief commerce city of the union territory. The distance between Daman and the railhead is about 15 k.m. The good thing is that one could easily get taxis and cabs from the city's commerce centre.
Daman is one of the handful places in India that were ruled by the Portuguese for a considerate long time period. During their reign over the place the Portuguese hugely influenced the culture, life, cuisine, and outlook of the city. The city is marked at different areas by the old remnants and structures left by them. The close proximity to the cities of Gujarat and Maharashtra have made the place a popular weekend getaway for locals of the cities.
Apart from the old Portuguese history, Daman is also popular for its natural beauty. The place enjoys the benefits of being situated at an apt location. Nature has blessed it in abundance and there is no shortage of good natural sites to visit. The beaches are very popular amongst the tourist. They are amongst the most beautiful pristine beaches on western coastline of India and perfect sun-kissed beaches with shallow waters and long streak of palm trees. The good thing is that there are a couple of hotels in Daman with rates best suiting budget of many travellers that are situated close to the popular beaches. If one seeks for lodgings at a tranquil place near to the beach then the beach hotels are ideal options to pick from.
To name the most popular attractions of the city: Jampore Beach, Church of Bom Jesus, Moti Daman, Devka Beach, Mirasol Water Park, Chapel of Our Lady of Rosary, Nani Daman, Pergola Garden, Somnath Mahadev Temple, Jetty Garden, and Kadaiya Lake Garden.

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Lisbon - Enigmatic Capital of Portugal

As a European city, Lisbon is cosmopolitan, multifaceted, cultural and unique. It is surely one city worth visiting not because it is the capital of Portugal but because it genuinely offers wonderful things to travelers. Situated on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, the city is one of the rare ones in the Western Europe region to be facing the water.
Thus, when in Lisbon, there's really no need to go far for a relaxing beach getaway or to witness a spectacular sunset. Although it's cosmopolitan, the city has an easy-going vibe. With its heritage sites, old architecture, narrow alleyways and white hued limestone buildings, a day would not be enough to fully explore Lisbon. But because of its large selection of attractions or things to do, it has the capacity to cater to a wide range of visitors. It also does not hurt that city is one of the more affordable destinations in Western Europe.
Because it is compact, it is very much possible to visit the major sites on foot. But if you must use transport, try out Lisbon's charming old trams. Terreiro do Paco is the largest square in the Lisbon, and has also become an iconic landmark for the city. The best way to enjoy it is to go a stroll around and along the river, while soaking in the lovely laidback atmosphere. Another famous square to check out is Rossio. This bustling area is favorite meeting and hangout place for locals.
Lisbon has a great love affair with certain style of music called Fado. Everywhere throughout the city, you will hear this type of music. It is definitely played in small patio restaurants but you will also most likely hear it sung on the streets and neighborhoods like Madragoa and Alfama.
The Santa Justa Lift, built in 1902, is another site worth seeing. This turn of the century street elevator was designed and built by Raoul de Mesnier du Ponsard who was a student under Gustave Eiffel, which explains the construction method being similar to the Eiffel Tower. The elevator connects the upper and lower parts of the city and is a fun photo opportunity as well.
One attraction in Lisbon that has become a must to a number of tourists is the Castle of Sao Jorge. As this is the highest spot in the city, you will need to make an extra effort to climb the hill to reach it. But once on top, you are guaranteed amazing vistas of Lisbon and the Tagus River, which makes a very fair reward. And if you enjoyed your high altitude experience, you should also head over to Bairro Alto; a district perched on a hill and populated by restaurants, bars and narrow streets. This is where the party revelers go and stay until dawn. Lisbon indeed has one of the best nightlife scenes in Europe. Nightclubs are found in prominent areas of the city, and they are usually housed in old docks and mansions.
Many will agree that the one of the most beautiful parts of the city is the monument complex of Belem (Torre de Belém), which is hailed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historic Jerónimos Monastery and the Belem Tower are among the most notable buildings in the complex.
If you like nature, there's Parque das Nacoes that will cater to this preference but if it's beach life you seek, make your way to the mouth of the river and on to the coastal road. Here, there are rows of beaches complete with a slew of resorts, marinas and villas to choose from. Some of these sandy stretches are perfect for swimming, other that are located further along the coast boast excellent surfing conditions.

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Day Tours Worth Trying In Sydney

Sydney is a very popular city in Australia and it happens to be a very popular spot for tourists and visitors from all walks of life. If you are one of those who wish to enjoy the city in a day, then day tours might be just what you need to have a taste of it all. There are so many tour operators in the beautiful city and day tours offered here will take you to come of the best areas including the famed Sydney Harbor Bridge and the Royal Botanical Gardens where you can enjoy views of the Sydney Opera House. There is just so much to see and enjoy in this city and the day tour package you choose will determine what areas you get to visit.
The Port Stephens Dolphin tour - This day tour just like the name suggests is perfect for those who love dolphins and marine wildlife in general at the popular Port Stephens Dolphins. Most packages will also include a visit to the Australian reptile Park and Stockton Bright wilderness where you can try sand boarding. It is amongst the best Sydney day tours you can choose.
The Blue Mountains tour - The Blue Mountains is definitely a must visit while in Sydney and this day tour will ensure you enjoy the very best of the great mountains. Also included in the tour is a visit to the famed magical Three Sisters Rocks where aboriginal dreamtime legends rule the sacred site. Other areas that can be covered during the tour include rainforest boardwalks, Katoomba and Megalong Valley as well as Featherdale Wildlife Park where Australian classic wildlife can be enjoyed.
The Jenolan Caves tour - This Sydney sightseeing tour will take you through Leura, Wentworth, Lawson and Blaxland townships as well as Katoomba which is the home of the Blue Mountains. You will love the Grand Arch, located in Jenolan Caves, which happens to be the main highlight of the tour and is home to limestone caverns that are gamed across the world. You also stand the chance to enjoy the magnificent Blue Lake and the Chifley, imperial or Lucas caves during your day tour. The Caves House is a must visit as it holds great significance having been a holiday retreat for the rich in the city back in 1920s.
The Hunter Valley tour - It is the best for those who wish to explore Hunter Valley wineries, villages, and towns and enjoy some fine cuisine from here. You can be sure to visit Wollombi the historic township as well as the Lindemans Winery that has world fame attached to it on this Sydney day tour. In the Hunter Resort, you can know the ins and outs of a winery and have a delicious lunch together with fine wines. Other areas that could be included in your tour are Hunter Valley gardens and Hunter Valley cellars. In essence, this is the ultimate day tour in Sydney for wine lovers. Those who love fine dining will also find the tour amazing.

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Weddings And Places: Top Wedding Venues In Brisbane Australia

Happily ever after starts with the perfect wedding venue and where is the best place to start to find the perfect venue? Australia is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and if you happen to be planning to hold your wedding there, then Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland, Australia, might be the right site for you.
Glengariff Historic Estate
Nothing makes a wedding perfect than experiencing a nostalgic one. Glengariff is the oldest family estate in the city having been a dairy farm for over a century and recently renovated into a vineyard and winery. It is now considered as one of the best venues for special events. From an outstanding view of the mountains, the Dayboro Valley, to formal gardens and stone arbours, one can have their ceremony and reception at the same place.
New Farm Park
Garden weddings are quite popular in this subtropical country and one of the popular wedding sites is the New Farm Park. The park boasts of horticultural delights that your eyes will certainly feast upon. Bright purple flowers from the Jacaranda tree during spring time cover the park with its splendor. Get to enjoy your reception overlooking the river or enjoy it surrounded by beautiful and breathtaking Jacaranda and Poincianas.
Castle in the Rainforest - Paronella Park
Hidden within a lush tropical forest is an old Catalonian-inspired castle, a waterfall and a hydro-electric plant is the Paronella Park. The park was built as a private home for Jose Paronella. The Park includes the castle, the Tunnel of Love, a Museum, a Café, tennis court and cabins. Many consider the place as one of the most romantic places on Earth.
Waterfront Wedding - Harrigan's Drift Inn
If you love a panoramic view of Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the Harrigan's Drift Inn offers a breathtaking view of the marina and the Calypso Bay. Harrigan's offers several packages starting from an affordable price for a Fireplace and Garden reception to a tailor-made marquee that can cater up to 120 guests. The inn has its own wedding coordinator and as such they can take care of all the preparations for your special day. From table decorations to the menu, music and entertainment, one only needs to stay back and relax for their special day.
Custom House
Right in the city's downtown area is another romantic place that can serve as your wedding reception. The Custom House is a premier heritage facility overlooking Brisbane River and the Story Bridge. Behind the grand Corinthian columns that flank the exterior of the facility, one would also find a stunning ballroom inside. The place not only serves as a wedding venue but also caters to corporate events.

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Bewitching Bentota in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, being a tropical heaven is known for its incredible cities that beautify its island-terrain. Bentota is one of such prosperous cities of Sri Lanka which we are going to discuss in this article. This city in Sri Lanka got its name from the River Bentara which flows along its side. Bentota with its fascinating glory beautifies the south western coastal edge of Sri Lanka. It is prominent as an elegant coastal town with rustic splendor. The famous Bentota Bridge connects these two aspects of Bentota - the rustic and the natural together. These two aspects primarily hold many attractions which lures the travelers.
Bentota is extensively opulent in housing natural glory. The glory is further glorified with flourishing coconut and palm trees that provide shade as well as shelter. Emerald is the colour which prevails in the city with almost every shade of green. This dominant color city looks all the more appealing with the azure backdrop of the sea. Apart from the attractions, the place boasts interestingly amiable population where the friendly, simple and grounded locals make travelers feel like home away from home. The best places to check out on a trip to Bentota are:
Bentota Beach: As we already know that the place is affluent in housing natural splendor, but the most famous among those natural wonders is the Bentota Beach. Nature has incredibly crafted this beach with immense grandeur. The region is formed by the two distinct sections: Beruwala Bay Beach and Bentota Bay Beach. It has been listed under the most famous twin beaches of the world. The glorious coast of Bentota is adorned with palm-fringed twin-beaches whose compelling charm mesmerizes each and every traveller. Travelers are often quoted as saying that the splendid splendor of the place leaves its imprints on the soul. The best way to spend a vacation in here is to go for the Bentota beach resort.
Bentota resort: It has been bestowing the luxurious and aesthetic essence to travelers since 1970s by the most famed architect of the time Geoffrey Bawa. The resort further organizes various interesting activities like stage show and mask dance for the entertainment of tourists at frequent intervals in its open air theatre.
Water sports at Bentota: being a coastal paradise, water sports and activities is a most admired attraction here. The coastline offers an array of thrilling and adventurous water activities that every traveler who loves to explore the sea seeks during their holiday. The place provides opportunity to experience almost all the exhilarating water sports including snorkeling, diving and sailing, wind surfing, water-skiing and deep-sea fishing. The best time to enjoy such activities is from October to April to ensure a safe and secure holiday.
Induruwa Beach, Brief Garden and Galapatha Buddhist Temple are other alluring attractions of the place.

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Madrid: One of the Sexiest Cities

On the night that I arrived to Madrid, I had slowly settled in to my friend David's city centre flat. I slipped into bed and cracked open the window of the guest room and a cool Spanish breeze welcomed itself in. As I breathed in the chill midnight air and released a long sigh, I thought to myself, "This place is truly wonderful."
The three months that I had spent in Spain I was able to visit a handful of cities; Madrid, Barcelona, San Sebastian, Bilbao, Toledo, Alcala de Henares, Córdoba, Aranjuez, Móstoles, and Patones (for climbing). Of those cities, I've spent the majority of the time in Madrid, and after the trip came to an end, I had come to the conclusion that Madrid is a seriously sexy city.
As discretion, I should add that I am in no way claiming that Madrid is "the" sexiest city in the world (although I'll probably have a few Madrileños who will tell me otherwise). I am simply stating that Madrid is one of the sexiest cities. I also know that I was not the first to visit the cities of Spain and certainly was not the first to explore the subcultures of the country, but Madrid's modern yet historical characteristics were nothing short of charming.
Of all the things I have considered, the following things on the list were the most significant:
Cost of Food:
Food is pretty cheap in Madrid, and while cheap is not often synonymous with sexy, your ability to enjoy luxuries (in some cases even like eating out,) is more probable, especially when your dollar is able to go a little further. In restaurants like "El Tigre", you order a drink and get a free platter of tapas. Granted they're not mind-blowing, you can still have a great time socializing with friends without busting your budget.
Curfew:
When I had to take an early flight to Belgium, I had to take a cab at 4am in order to get to the bus stop in the centre of Madrid. I was afraid, very afraid, but also very determined.
Being the smart girl I was, I decided that dressing like I was homeless would be the most effective in deterring criminals. After all, criminals don't mess with other criminals.
As soon as I arrived to my bus stop though, I was both amazed and relieved to see tons of people sprawled all over the streets. I'm not talking 20-something partiers or ravers, mind you. The people have the mindset of work-to-live, not the live-to-work mindset that most North American's are familiar with. That meant two-hour lunch breaks as opposed to our one-hour (or even half-hour) lunch breaks. Thankfully for me, that also meant that at 3am, all sorts of people of all ages were still out on the street. There was no stigma that only partiers or ravers were out at that hour, people were out simply because they want more time to spend with their friends. How they're still able to go to work in the morning? Don't ask me...
Fashion:
In Madrid, fashion isn't reserved for the runway. I'm sorry Vancouver, but you're not winning any awards here. From what I've observed, people dressed better in Madrid, period. The choice of clothing that was worn on a daily basis, even on a grocery store trip, would be me, trying. I'm not sure if that's knocking Vancouver's style or just my own personal ability to dress myself, but I digress. Does it help that Zara was born in Spain? Probably not.
Patios:
When I'm with friends in Vancouver, hanging out is going for a hike or heading to the beach to soak up the sun. We are after all, situated in a spectacular coastal location, surrounded by stunning and chiefly pristine nature... but in Madrid, a city far from nature or the coast, hanging out more often than not meant grabbing drinks at a Patio, or "Terraza" as the locals called it. (That's pronounced Terra(tha), by the way.)
In this Spanish city, chances are there will be a terraza not far from your doorstep, and it will be quite good. It was also here that I learned the art of Patio-hopping. You see, as a North American, when I go to a restaurant to eat, I will eat, and then I will pay and leave. (We don't like to be the inconsiderate jerks that occupy an otherwise empty table.) But when you're in Madrid, you eat, and then you talk with your friends for an hour, and then you order more drinks. When you finally pay and leave, you head to another terraza and get more drinks. I won't lie, it seemed like overkill to me, but that my dear friends, is patio-hopping... ( and I also solemnly swear that I am not an alcoholic).
Patio-hopping never-the-less is an art, or in my case, an art of being patient... or the art of not questioning why we have to stay for so goddamn long.
Architecture:
Modern yet classical; with a country this old, it's hardly a surprise that a city as metropolitan as Madrid could stay fixed to it's roots. From the Museo Nacional Del Prado (which boasts some of the world's finest arts) to Parque del Retiro (which once belonged to the Spanish monarchy), the architecture somehow still remained relevant to this day. When you feel uninspired, you can also head to the Palacio de Cristal to get some creative stimulus.
Culture:
At the end of the day, I could only chalk it up to culture. The overwhelming feeling of unity, when Real Madrid played against Atlético Madrid in the Plaza de Cibeles during the World Cup of 2014, was enough to explain why the city was so sexy, and it all boils down to passion. Madrileños feel a strong passion towards their city, the same way that Vancouverites feel a strong passion towards the outdoors, and it's a thing I quickly learned to respect. I love my own city of Vancouver to bits, and as an overall outdoorsy girl, I would have it no other way. But after living in a city like Madrid where the allure of the city will reel you in one way or another, I can honestly say that this city will no less place as one of the sexiest cities in my books.

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Finding Providence

Gondolas and vineyards are not even remotely close to what you think of when you think of Providence, Rhode Island. To be fair, how often do you think of this destination? What seems like a neglected place on the map compared to other destinations, will surprise you in terms of what it has to offer. Read on and let's see just some of the activities and attractions that await you on your trip!
If you want some sightseeing and shopping, that's easily combined when you go to the Arcade Providence. It's the country's oldest indoor shopping mall and still has many shops to choose from. It was built in 1828 and the architecture is just splendid! Check out unique stores like the Goddess Closet and Carmen & Ginger. If you don't make it to the Arcade, there are plenty of small mom and pop stores that you can wander into during you trip to Providence.
Food seems to always hold a huge chunk of my heart and wallet when I travel. Food tours and restaurants hold the top spots on my list of things to do. In Providence, there's the added pleasure of visiting the Culinary Arts Museum at Johnson & Wales University. Walk through and explore the cookbooks, art, photographs, and many other things related to everything food.
After having satisfied the foodie in you, go look at the stars. This doesn't mean you have to throw yourself on a mat to enjoy the starry night (although I'm sure you can find a spot). It does mean taking visiting the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium though. Keep in mind that the planetarium has its show at 2 PM every weekend only. The rest of the museum can be seen every day from 10 AM until 4 PM.
If you have the time and really want to tasty some local wine, rent a car and drive about an hour out of Providence to Scituate, Rhode Island. It's here that you'll find Verde Vineyards. There are tasting every weekend, one at 11 AM and one at 5 PM. Soak in the tranquility with some of their wine and perhaps some lunch that you can bring onto the grounds.
This small destination packs a big punch! This is only a small taste of what can be experienced in Providence. Go and find out what else they can offer you on your next trip!

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Pushkar - The King Of All Pilgrimages And The Place Of Supreme Devotion

Pushkar falls in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan. It is one of the five most sacred dhams in Hindu religion. Hence, pilgrims and visitors come to this place throughout the year. There are many places to visit in Pushkar such as Sri Sawai Bhoj temple, Atpateshwar Mahadev, Varaha temple, etc. The Pushkar Lake that is at the heart of the region and gives its name to it is said to have been formed by Lord Brahma himself. The main temple is the Brahma Temple that was built in the 14th century. Pushkar is called the king of all pilgrimages (Teerth Raj).
Pushkar stands as one of the holiest place in Hindu mythology and because of this place commands a huge religious sentiment across India. Devotees arrive at Pushkar in large numbers and it all looks like a grand carnival. During November, a large camel fair is held here. Besides the world-famous Pushkar fair, some other carnivals are also held here, such as the Nagaur Fair, Tejaji Fair, and the Blue Lotus Festival that is held in the month of February. Pushkar Fair is a grand ceremony in itself and the whole town seems to be entirely indulged in merrymaking and recreations. More than 50,000 camels can be sighted in Pushkar during this fair. Several stalls line up along the places, selling jewellery for camels. It is an experience in itself to see how all the animals are washed and cleaned and then adorned with the jewelleries and clothings. An interesting ritual of nose piercing of camels also takes place here. There are around 400 temples in Pushkar which implies the kind of atmosphere and religious tenor that echoes in this town. There are 52 ghats where people take bath before offering prayers and homage. The reverberation of pujas and chantings, beatings of drums and the sound of devotional prayer songs offers a unique scene for the thousands of devotees and wraps them in the fabric of one religious sentiment. The whole mystic aura and the silver bells ringing from the camels is totally interesting for someone who visits Pushkar for the first time.
Since thousands of pilgrims reach the town of Pushkar every year, there are all ranges of hotels in Pushkar. From budget and economy to mid-range and luxurious hotels, you would find all sorts of accommodations here. Since the rush of visitors never slows down, it is recommended that you make your room reservations in advance so that you can indulge in your acts of devotion and exploration with a complete peace of mind. Usually, if you are traveling to Pushkar during the months of November, you need to book an accommodation 4-8 weeks before your date of arrival. It is said that every devout Hindu must visit this abode of Lord Brahma at least once in a lifetime. In case, you are planning to visit Pushkar, you would like to make your reservations and arrangements in advance as mentioned.

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Portofino - The Pride of Liguria Italy

Portofino is one of the lovely coastal villages in the Italian region of Liguria. Facing the Ligurian Sea and nestled on a crescent-shaped bay, the village's port is a favorite destination for many luxury yachts. Despite its small size Portofino has earned a reputation of being a splendid resort town. Its beauty and low-key vibe has been attracting many artists and prominent personalities, who are just yearning for a laidback and relaxing holiday.
One simple yet memorable thing to do in Portofino is to walk around town, visiting the various artisan workshops. In these shops, you can witness how the exquisite patterns are done on the region's notable product - the bobbin lace. To see the beautifully colored houses that reflect the maritime heritage of the town, stroll over to the port. While here, you can hire a boat to cruise through the gorgeous Gulf of Tigullio.
The village may not have as many landmarks as other bigger tourist destination in Italy, however, it is a place where you can enjoy the serene and relaxing atmosphere of a charming Italian seaside village. Nevertheless, if you still the need to sightsee, Portofino is has a couple of outstanding attractions. One of them is the Portofino Church San Giorgio, which was built in the 12thcentury. These days, you can still find some relics brought by sailors after they participated in the Crusades. If you walk outside the churchyard called parvis, you will get an amazing panorama of the sea.
After the church, consider stopping by the town's fortress situated in a hanging garden. The Brown Castle (Castello Brown) is easily recognizable with its distinct architecture and decorations made of slate, marble and bas-reliefs. Walk to Punta del Capo and admire the imposing lighthouse guarding the bay. But before you do, make sure to bring a camera because it will be hard to resist taking a few photos of this scenic spot. To experience the art of Portofino, head out to the Gothic Oratory of the Brotherhood of Mary Assumed, which houses a collection of precious art work. One of the more prominent pieces in this collections is the wooden statue of the Assumption of the Virgin, which is created during the 12th century.
Portofino and the rest of the Ligurian region is quite well known for its splendid cuisine; so do not visit the village without trying out its tasty dishes. Some of the major food offerings in the village are seafood based for the fish lovers. Also, a notable dish that all visitors should try is the Lasagna di Portofino, which features a scrumptious pesto sauce. For a quick fix, do as the locals do; go to Piazzeta late in the afternoon or early evening, to feast on some of their famous apertivo snacks like the Genoese focaccia. Partner your meal with Giancu de Purtufin, a locally made wine from grapes grown in the Liguaria area, and you can definitely say that you had genuine culinary experience in Portofino.
Summer season in Portofino is quite exciting as the village usually holds many special events during this period. The feast day for San Giorgio, the patron saint of the town is celebrated on the 23rd of April. The celebration is marked by a procession and a bonfire at the town's main square, Piazzetta. On top of the feast day, Portofino also hosts several competitions and international regattas during this time.

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The City of Taj Tour

The city of Taj - Agra - is located at the northern part of India in Uttar Pradesh, sitting on the west side of the river Yamuna. It is around 200 km away from the national capital of India - Delhi. Agra is the most preferred and renowned tourist destination. Taj Mahal - the seven wonder of the world adds more charm to this city endowing it a relatively distinct place in world tourism. Agra consists of the most beautifully designed historical monuments Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri and Agra fort which has been listed under the UNESCO World heritage sites. This is yet another reason for Agra being the most popular tourist destination among the world.
Taj Mahal was constructed in around 1631 to 1648 by the orders given by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. This spectacular pure white marble monument was built as a memorial for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. It is considered as a symbol of pure and eternal love. It has the most bewitching architecture in India and the world. It is truly a gem created by the Mughal emperor which is adding on to India's pride. This marvelous love monument manifolds the glamour and bliss in itself. It is difficult to describe the beauty and serenity of this architectural wonder in words. No doubt on why this monument has gained so much fame and admiration from all over the world.
This internationally famed city once had been the capital city in the Mughal reign and therefore the Mughal influence can be clearly visible in the architectural buildings and the local cuisine too. Agra owns some of the best Mughal cuisine and dishes which cannot be found anywhere else. It's been famous for its rich culture, and prestigious monuments which still have the historical stories and traditional values intact with them. Akbar's tomb in Sikandra, Chini ka Rauza, Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb, Mariam's Tomb, Jama Masjid, are some of the monuments which is a must to visit when travelling through Agra. Some of the beautifully designed gardens like Soami Bagh, Ram Bagh and Mehtab Bagh add the charismatic effect to this city making it more beautiful.
Apart from historical monuments and enigmatic gardens, Agra has a lot to offer to the visitors who seek contemporary attractions. Modern Agra offers myriad avenues of entertainment to its visitors, some of which are the movie complexes like Bhagwan, Sriram, Surya, Roxy and Anjana. Circuit house complex is yet another place including Sur Sarovar and the Golf Course to enjoy and spend some quality time.

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Bangalore - From Being a Cantonment to Becoming a Metropolis and IT Powerplace

Bangalore is touted as the Silicon Valley of India. It is a city bustling with hopes, dreams, and a lot of opportunities. It is also blessed with some nice tourist attractions within its periphery and around. Hotels in Bangalore range from luxury to economy and offer a range of choices to their guests. The local cuisine which mainly comprises of the South Indian dishes is a must try while in Bangalore.
Bangalore is the most promising city in terms of Information Technology and remains an active hub of potential opportunities for the youth. People from various parts of India arrive here to explore their career opportunities. This capital city of Karnataka has a rich culture and diverse background. It is also a major center for engineering studies in the state. For many years it has remained a lifeline city of the state. It is well-connected to major rail and road routes and has its own International airport. This city has been in existence since the 16th century when it was part of the Vijayanagar empire. It stands as the fifth largest city of India. It is often called the Garden City ot the City of Gardens. According to folklore, the name of the city originated when a famished king of the Vijayanagar empire was offered a modest meal of boiled beans from a compassionate woman.
The word Benda Kaalu in Kannada means Boiled beans and Ooru means a village. Hence formed the name Bendakaalooru which got modified as Bangalore and then finally Bengaluru. Bangalore is divided into two parts - one is the old Bangalore and the new and modern setting is the original cantonment area. The whole city extended and developed around the Mud Fort and its Petha area that was founded during the 15th century by Kempe Gowda. As the British arrived here in the beginning of the 18th century, they liked the salubrious climate of Bangalore which was pleasant and beneficial for the army. Hence, this city became their cantonment back then.
Although the old city remained under the rule of the then king, the cantonment became a base for the army of the British time. During the 1970s, immigration to Bangalore saw a steep rise and it is then that the city started to grown as a cosmopolitan place and later on became a huge metropolis. It can be understood from the fact that the city that covered an area of 75 sq. km came close to 200 sq. km. by 1990s. The population too saw a steep rise during this period. Bangalore is a nice place to explore and it has been declared an A class city of India. Visitors from all over come here looking for complete refreshment and many of them who seek luxury and comfort to the optimal stay in the 5 star hotels in Bangalore.

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Manesar - An Upcoming City of Haryana and a Popular Tourist Destination

Manesar is one of the fastest developing cities of India. It is an agricultural town which since 90s has been a chief site for the establishment of a large number of industries. It is also a part of National Capital Region and is the place that house some of the government entities carrying national level importance, namely NSG, National Brain Research Centre, and National Bomb Data Centre. The city is on the path of rapid transformation and many have already started calling it the "New Gurgaon".
Manesar is served by National Highway 8. It is about 20 k.m. from the district headquarter, Gurgaon. It is well-connected to Delhi. Taxis and cabs can easily be availed from both the cities. It takes around an hour to cover the distance in a vehicle. Presently, the city doesn't have a railway station, the nearest being in Gurgaon, Pataudi, and New Delhi. The Gurgaon railway station is the closest one and about 18 k.m. away. However, backpackers often prefer Delhi railway station as it is the largest and most significant railway junction in central India and is easily accessible from Manesar. Delhi also houses the nearest airport, both domestic as well as international.
With improved infrastructure and a large number of hotels ranging from luxury to cheap hotels in Manesar, today, the city generates a lot of attention amongst tourists across India. It is a popular weekend getaway for the locals of Delhi and Gurgaon. The place also sees an increasing influx of tourists from all over India. Evidently the recent developments made the place prominent on the Indian map. For a tourist the city stores a couple of interesting attractions. There is a stark contrast between IMT Manesar and the villages occupied regions. IMT Manesar is the centre of all the development and industrialization. It is here where exist all the sparkle and glamour of modernization including shopping centres, multiplexes, international food chain of restaurants, etc. The villages on the other hand are still minimally modernized and ooze the charm of old days. They are the perfect offbeat getaways for the tourists visiting the city.
Manesar is a culture rich place. Locals take great pride in the traditional dance forms, art, music, and folklores. Loor, Chhatti dance, Jhumar, Gugga, and Gangaur Puja are the popular dance forms here. Tourists take great pleasure in watching the dramas, ballads, and dance. Apart from that shopping wooden gift boxes, wooden utensils, and wooden toys also remain a popular activity amongst the tourists.
The most significant landmarks and points of interest in Manesar that a tourist should not miss to visit, include: Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Faridabad Shiva Temple, Surajkund Lake, Faridabad Town Park, Mata Sheetala Devi Temple, Damdama Lake, and Sidhdata Temple. Besides, one will also find a number of Manesar hotels providing tour services to their guests.

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Explore Kentucky: Louisville

Bourbon, horse racing, and bluegrass are not the only things that symbolize Louisville. They are, however, the most enduring.
Any horse lover worth their salt knows that Louisville is the best place to immerse oneself in all things horses. It's where one can find Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby Museum after all! Always check to make sure that you will be visiting at a time when the museum is actually open. There are several tours to choose from and it all depends on what you want to see and how long you want to spend at the museum.
If you're a bourbon lover, Louisville is the perfect place for a trip! The Buffalo Trace Distillery, where the aromas will envelope you in all things delectable and delicious is only about an hour drive from Louisville. The distillery has several tours you can choose from so that you know that your experience is exactly or as close to what you want. If you are huge fan of Buffalo Trace then you'll love that all the tours include a tasting. If you're a fan of Jim Beam, visit their American Stillhouse. This is only 30 minutes from Louisville with guided tours. Much like most distilleries, the Jim Beam stillhouse also offers bourbon tastings.
While there are many places to eat, choose an establishment with good food that you can only experience during your trip to Louisville. Wagner's Pharmacy has been synonymous with Churchill Downs for decades. This establishment, open since 1922, is very homey and unpretentious. They serve breakfast and lunch. Proof on Main may be what you're looking for if you want something a bit more modern and still very much the style of Louisville gastronomy. It's found in the 21C Museum Hotel with a bar that has over 75 Kentucky Bourbons to choose from. The artwork that you see in the restaurant are actually rotating exhibits! The food is made with ingredients provided by local suppliers. Even more interesting is that Woodland Farms, a supplier of bison, is also owned by the founder of the 21C Museum.
Speaking of the 21C Museum, it's also a pretty neat place to visit during your trip. All the art work displayed is strictly from the 21st century, hence the name 21C. I would recommend checking out their website before your visit to see what special events or exhibits they may be offering during your stay.
In the end, Louisville is more than just for the horseraces and bourbons. It's for memories, laughter, and great food. It's about the time spent together in a place that's wonderful.

Sabrina Toth is a certified travel associate and owner of Toth International. Check out her website at http://www.tothinternational.com or email her at Sabrina@tothinternational.com to see how she can help you with your travel needs.

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Rameshwaram - The Temple Town of South India and Home of the Lord of Rama

Rameshwaram meaning "Lord of Rama" is a highly revered pilgrimage in India with a strong association with Lord Rama and Lord Shiva. It counts amongst the seven most revered holy places in the country and is situated on top of an island which is separated from Indian mainland by the Pamban Channel. According to Hindu mythology it is the place from where Lord Rama built a bridge to Lanka (now Sri Lanka) in order to rescue his wife Mata Sita who was abducted by Ravana, the demon lord. There exists an ornate, old temple at the centre of the place. It is called the Ramanathaswamy Temple and is the nerve centre of the town. The temple is dedicated to the Lord of Rama, referring to Lord Shiva. The prime deity is a lingam of Lord Shiva and is seen with utmost respect by the Shivates as well as Vaishnavites. Apart from that the place is also known for the sacred water tanks, called Tirthas or Theerthams that are spread all over the island. Taking a dip in the water tanks is considered to very auspicious as it is believed that doing that washes-off the sins.
Rameshwaram is one of the most visited places in the country and there is hardly anytime in a year when it is not busy with tourists and pilgrims. The large number of tourists in the town has resulted in a large concentration of hotels and other lodging options. There are hotels of all kinds starting from the luxury equipped plush hotels to budget hotels to hotels in Rameshwaram with tariff best suiting travellers with constrained budget.
Being a spiritual destination majority of travelers visit the town with religious purposes. It is said that a pilgrimage to all revered Hindu sites is simply incomplete without a visit of the town. The Ramanathaswamy Temple is the prime attraction of the town. It is the main point of interest as it attracts every single traveler visiting the place. It is an ornate temple known for its massive sculptured pillars, a very long corridor (the longest in the world), and a 38.4 metres tall Gopuram.
Gandamadana Parvatham is perhaps the next most-visited place in the island. The site houses the imprints of Lord Rama's feet imprinted on a Chakra. The spot is also considered auspicious and there is almost always a horde of people trying to get a glimpse of the foot prints. Additionally, the site is also the highest peak on the island and is known for offering panoramic views of island as well as the Bay of Bengal.
The other significant places and points of interest here that are must to visit include: Badrakaliamman Temple, Five-faced Hanuman Temple, Kothandaramaswamy Temple, Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge or the Pamban Bridge, Nambu Nayaki Amman Temple, Dhanushkodi, Agnitheertham, Satchi Hanuman Temple, and Sugreeva Temple.
There is a 2340 meters long rail and road bridge connecting the island with mainland India. The good thing is that the town has its own railway station featuring a good concentration of hotels near Rameswaram railway station. The Rameshwaram Railway Station is a small terminus connected to Chennai and Madurai. Chennai is the most preferred transit point to access the holy town as the city houses excellent and state of art airport and railway station. However, the nearest airport is the Madurai airport which is about 174 k.m. away.

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Satara - The Historic City of Maratha Kingdom in the Midst of Seven Mountains

Satara is a town in Maharashtra at an altitude of 2320 feet. It is situated at the confluence of Krishna and Venna rivers. According to historic accounts, the town was established in the 16th century and it was the seat of the king. Tourists keep visiting this old place and spend a couple of days exploring it during their stay in the Satara hotels. Satara holds a significant past in the state as it was invaded in 1296. In 1663, Shivaji won the Satara Fort and it served as part of the Maratha Kingdom. His direct descendents reside in Satara even today. At Powai Naka, a unique statue in which Shivaji is standing beside a canon is situated, showcasing the essence and royal honor of gone times. Kaas Plateau situated in Satara is now a World Natural Heritage Site.
Ajinkyatara is a famous fort which is situated on one of the seven hills that surround Satara. This 16th century fort now hosts a television tower. The other main attractions in Satara are Koyna Dam, Thoseghar Waterfall, and Pratapgarh Fort. There is the Shiv Sagar Lake for a tranquil and picnic spot. Besides all these, there are various temples in the Satara town, which are quite popular around here. Some of them are Natraj Mandir and Dholya Ganapati. Boat tours are one of the fun activities for tourists in Satara. For those who take birdwatching as a hobby, Mayani Bird Sanctuary is a place of interest. The town has a cricket stadium as well. Sajjangarh Fort is also a nice spot for more historic accounts and for an overview of the area from its elevation. This fort also has the samadhi of Sant Ramdas. The popular local sweet Kandi Pedhe is a must try in Satara. Satara is a calm and quiet place and hence it can a perfect destination for spending a long vacation. Its tranquil surroundings and lush grasslands offer an escape from the humdrum of urban chores.
Many tourists visiting Mumbai go on to explore more places in Maharashtra and Satara is one of those. The old monuments and forts and various books depicting the ways and customs of old times of this place are worth checking out. The town is worth exploration at a moderate pace and hence a week's time spent in Satara looking into its history or beautiful vicinity is definitely worth it. It is 250 km from Mumbai and about 115 km from Pune. You can take the train or reach by bus as well. The other way to get to Satara is to book a private taxi. There are many budget hotels in Satara and you would not have any issues finding a good accommodation at a reasonable tariff. You can also ask for taxi services at the hotel, where you make your stay, for a sightseeing tour.

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Eating Out in Hanoi

Hanoi, in common with most modern capital cities, offers a wide range of gastronomic experiences and dishes to suit most palates and pockets. Although local Vietnamese cuisine is dominant, and offered in a variety of forms, restaurants of all the major international food purveyors are well established: Chinese, Thai, Indian, Japanese, Italian, and even an Irish pub for those who favour a lunch of the liquid kind. Cuisine in Vietnam is underpinned by more than 70 years exposure to French culture so one can be sure of good basic standards and being served crisp freshly baked bread.
Hanoi is a city of lakes and two are of special interest. Located at the centre is the lake of the redeemed sword (Ho Hoan Kiem), home of a famous giant turtle. Circled by roads and narrow strips of parkland, it is the social centre of the city and a place where many people congregate in the evenings and at weekends. For the tourist, it is a number-one priority and an excellent place to first sample Vietnamese food. One can choose between eating on a terrace at the lakeside or on a balcony several storeys high, enjoying a panoramic view across the lake. To the north of the city lies the West Lake (Ho Tay), much bigger than Ho Hoan Kiem and the home of fair-sized ships. Here one can experience a romantic dinner on an evening cruise and afterwards sit at a lakeside terrace enjoying a drink accompanied by live music.
Hanoi is full of towering office and apartment blocks, some combined with shopping malls, cinemas and swimming pools. In one such commercial complex to the west of the city known as 'The Garden', is a good Italian restaurant which also offers some Mexican dishes. In the more central district of Dong Da, just off Thai Ha street, is a highly recommended restaurant offering sushi and other Japanese dishes.
For those on a limited budget, looking for an alternative to American fast foods, one can recommend the numerous small restaurants offering the typical Vietnamese dishes of beef noodles (Pho Bo) and chicken noodles (Pho Ga). For a price of about one dollar one can purchase a tasty and satisfying meal, often with hot or iced green tea included. Some noodles restaurants also offer alternative inexpensive dishes of fried rice.
However modest one's budget, one should take care to eat at a properly established restaurant on a busy street where one will find tables with chairs or stools of normal height, and a generally clean and airy environment. It is best to avoid the cheapest establishments in alleyways with low stools and tables, where standards of hygiene may not be to international standards. Rest assured that following these few guidelines, eating in Hanoi is as safe as anywhere, and one can be free to enjoy the full range of gastronomic delights that Vietnam has to offer.

John Powell
John Powell weaves a tale of tension and intrigue into the lives and loves of the Mainu family and their friends, against the rich social, cultural, economic and political background of the first four decades of Ghana's independence, in his two novels: The Colonial Gentleman's Son and Return to the Garden City.

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Traveling to San Francisco, California

San Francisco is the home of Alcatraz Island. Alcatraz was a federal prison which held Al Capone and George "Machine Gun" Kelly, who were very notorious criminals in the time period in which the prison was open. You can ride a boat to the island and tour the prison. While your there you can pay for headphones and you actually hear real prisoners voices telling about their time in the prison.
San Francisco is also the home of Golden Gate Park which is 1017 acres big. There are numerous things to do there. There is hiking and biking trails throughout the park. You can rent bicycles to ride there. The de Young Museum, the San Francisco Botanical Gardens and The California Academy of Sciences are all there. We went to the California Academy of Sciences while we were there. You can learn all about various kinds of science topics and there are also numerous marine animals housed there. Also there are numerous daily programs about different science related topics. Right near the Golden Gate Park is the famous Golden Gate Bridge. We drove across the bridge two times because we went the wrong way trying to go somewhere. I am directionally challenged. If you want you can also walk across the Golden Gate Bridge unless your like me and scared of heights. I would imagine that it would be a great view of the Bay.
When we were there we drove down the street that's called "the crookedest street in the world" which is Lombard Street. It is also very steep too. The street twists and turns like your following a snake down the hill. You can also walk down it too. When we drove down there was a large number of people there looking down the hill and walking down it too.
There are too many things to list here of things to do in San Francisco. Here's my small list of things to do depending upon the length of time your there and what kinds of things you like to do and see. There is Pier 39 where a lot of the sight-seeing trips by boat leave from. Pier 39 is where you can see lots of sea lions. Their bark is very similar to a dogs if you have never heard them. In addition Pier 39 has a lot of shops to buy souvenirs at and numerous eating establishments.
A list of other things to see and do are Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower, Chinatown, Fisherman's Wharf, Ghiradelli Square, Snow Lake, San Francisco's Famous Cable Cars, and Boudin's Bakery. Getting around San Francisco is a challenge and parking is expensive. For ways to get around there are cable cars, buses, streetcars, trolley buses, light rail, and bike taxi's. If you choose to drive your car around San Francisco just know that parking is fairly pricey. Also when you cross a bridge expect to pay anywhere between $4 to $8 per car to go across the bridge. You only have to pay the bridge fee one way across the bridge.
Hotels in San Francisco are also fairly expensive. When my family and I went we stayed in a hotel in Pinole and it was around 15 miles from San Francisco. It was a decent hotel with a breakfast buffet and it was about half the price of a hotel in San Francisco.
This is just a small portion of the stuff that you can do in San Francisco. It would depend on how much money you have to spend and more importantly how long your vacation is.

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The City of Kota

Kota also known as 'Kotah', is one of the major destinations as far as the economy and culture of Rajasthan are concerned. It is the twenty-fifth largest district of Rajasthan state. The location of Kota is about 250 km away from the state capital of Jaipur (Pink City of India). The tourists having Rajasthan in their travel plan also choose holiday in Kota packages too for a unique travel experience. The district of Kota is located at the banks of Chambal River, which has a rich history of centuries long culture and heritage. Kota is also well known as an educational hub with many famous medical and engineering coaching centers here and students from all over the country flock at Kota.
History of Kota
The city of Kota was a part of Bundi in the Rajputana dynasty. Back in 17th century, Kota was separated as a dignified princely state. The known history of Kota dates back to 12th century AD during when Rao Deva conquered this territory and formed Bundi and Hadoti. Next, during first half of the 17th century, Rao Ratan Singh, who was the ruler of Bundi shared a smaller portion of Kota with Madho Singh, his son. From then, Kota's fame stated as a key hub of the Rajput culture and gallantry.
After 17th century, Kota had an exponential growth in terms of revenue, trade, and power. The most famous ruler of this region Maharao Bhim Singh played a vital role in the growth and establishment of Kota as a superior city. Kota is still the major trade center for commodities as wheat, rice, millet, coriander, pulses, and oilseeds as well as industries like textile weaving, milling, dairy, distilling, metal crafts, chemicals and fertilizers etc.
Geography and climate
Kota is ideally located at the banks of Chambal River towards the southern tip of Rajasthan. The location cartography of Kota is 25.18°N 75.83°E. The total area covered by Kota district is nearly 318 square kilometers and the elevation of this region is 889 feet (271 meters). The borders of Kota are the Rajasthan districts of Tonk, Sawai Madhopur, and Bundi and the Chambal River forms a natural boundary between Kota and these districts. With the proximity of water-rich Chambal River, Kota has a highly fertile land and greenery plus there is an excellent city planning which ensures high-end irrigation facilities.
As per the Köppen climate classification, Kota weather is classified as a semi-arid climate. The temperature of Kota, as at almost all parts of Rajasthan state, remains high throughout the year. There is a long summer, which is basically hot and dry, starts from March and run through early July. There is a cool climate during monsoon period, but with high humidity and torrential downpours. The ideal weather in Kota starts from November to February, which is the wintertime here. The temperature during this period hovers around 26 °C to 12 °C.
Things to do in Kota
The major visitors to Kota are tourists, businessmen, and students preparing for engineering and medical entrance exams. There are many things to do in Kota for leisure travelers and shoppers. The major day touring spots in Kota are Jagmandir Palace, City Fort Palace, Rao Madho Singh Museum, and Kota Government Museum etc. For the Hindu devotees, some ancient and architecture rich temples to be visited in Kota are Godavari Dham Temple, Kansua Temple, and Garadia Mahadev Temple etc.
The lush greenery and soothing ambience of Chambal Gardens, enjoying the wilder charm at Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, shopping at the streets, and exploring the ancient forts, monument, and temples in and around Kota everything make a trip to Kota a truly memorable experience.

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Crossing the Road in Vietnam

To any European contemplating crossing a busy city street in Vietnam other than by a footbridge, the best advice would be, 'Don't.' Locals step straight into the traffic stream, trusting all drivers and motorcyclists to make micro steering adjustments to pass ahead or behind them and most seem to emerge safely on the other side, but if you haven't spent long years at your mother's side rehearsing this manoeuver it is best left un-attempted.
At most major road junctions in Hanoi, footbridges have been provided. These are almost totally neglected by the adult population but one does occasionally see children or a nervous foreigner ascending the steps. The very old and decrepit however, quail at the prospect of the long climb, and still plunge into the melee, claiming the right to proceed at whatever snail's pace the years have left them. The same privilege is assumed by those carrying a large or heavy burden or pushing a trolley. The refuse collectors who abound during the last hour of daylight assert absolute priority for their large wheeled bins.
Under most of the footbridges, the authorities have erected a waist-high steel fence running for a hundred metres or so on either side of the bridge on a central island dividing the two traffic streams. If this is intended to encourage people to use the footbridge it is rather ineffective. The young, male and athletic can be seen easily negotiating this barrier and the others cross beyond its extension.
Those visitors who find it essential to cross a busy road at a location devoid of a footbridge may succeed if they have enough patience. Long experience has proved that there are occasional breaks in the traffic, except during the rush hour, when one could in theory cross safely. However, one must be careful that no traffic is coming in the wrong direction or taking the opportunity to shoot out of a secluded alleyway, or even a house or shop doorway. Cyclists, especially, often ignore the rule of the road, and all vehicles at times attempt an excursion on the wild side.
Many people are familiar with the signs painted on the road at pedestrian crossings in London. They tell one to 'look right' and 'look left' and guarantee the safety of the crossing. One won't find any such guidance in Hanoi, and if it was there, it would only add to the danger. Pedestrian crossings are painted on the road but they are totally ignored by all traffic. The golden rule is 'look both ways' when attempting to cross each carriageway.
There is one other way to cross a road in Hanoi in an emergency, and that is to ask a fit, able and trusted local person to be your guide. This should only be ventured by those who have nerves of steel and a good life insurance policy. Take firm hold of the proffered hand and keep the eyes tightly closed!

John Powell
John Powell weaves a tale of tension and intrigue into the lives and loves of the Mainu family and their friends, against the rich social, cultural, economic and political background of the first four decades of Ghana's independence, in his two novels: The Colonial Gentleman's Son and Return to the Garden City.

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Santa Marta: The Prettiest Bay in the Americas

Santa Marta, the oldest city in South America, boasts an unparalleled architectural heritage from the banana boom times. It is the capital city of the Magdalena department, which is in the Caribbean coastal region.
Founded on July 29, 1525 by the Spanish conquistador Rodrigo de Bastidas, this city, which is located in the bay of the same name, is one of the main tourist destinations of the Colombian Caribbean. several conquering expeditions started out in, the most important of the being Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada's expedition, which culminated in 1538 with the discovery of the Sabana de Bogotá and the founding of the city of Santa Fe de Bogotá.
The average temperature is 28 ° C. Dry weather is predominant due to the breezes from the Sierra Nevada. All the climatic zones can be found there because of the difference in the topography of the city.
Santa Marta has one of the most important national ports. Thanks to its geographical location it, has a natural draft that benefits sea trade. It is also the deepest port in the Americas and one of the safest in the world. Therefore, a large number of commercial vessels arrive in the city, which contributes to the economy of the region. Sociedad Portuaria de Santa Marta is the organization responsible for the ports.
Its location between the Sierra Nevada, with the highest peaks in the country, and the Caribbean Sea, attracts countless people to visit the variety of fauna and flora that can be found in the area. The city also has many cultural and historical sites, one of them being Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino. It was built in 1608, 5 km from the city, and it is a historical precedent of great importance since National Liberator Simon Bolivar passed away in one of its rooms on December 17, 1830. It was later declared a Sanctuary of the Fatherland, and the Bolivarian Museum can be found there today.
Accomodations and luxury hotels in Santa Marta are usually very popular because of the sheer number of tourists that the city welcomes every year. A very large portion of all the visitors that come to Colombia go to either Santa Marta or to its smaller, more secluded neighbor, Taganga. Both the city and its neighbor are among the top 4 tourist destinations in the country, the other two being Cartagena, Medellin, and the Quindio region respectively. Nothing but sun, fun, and heritage.

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