CHARDHAM YATRA

One teaching around which all the faiths base their preaching is tranquility of mind, body and spirit. From the ancient times both man and divinity have just one prayer - Peace - for the alive and the dead. The Char Dham, also known as the Deo Bhumi - The dwelling of the Gods - provides just the environment where the God & the transcendent coexist.

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The Sacred Himalayas
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The Himalayas - the planets most imposing & highest mountain chain, is the universal legacy of all mankind. The inspirational quality of this "dwelling of Snows' has, since ancient times , motivated the sages & saints of our country and has fascinated travelers & pilgrims from all around the world for its breathtaking attractiveness & tranquil stillness. The four dhams obtain holy water in the shape of four rivers - Yamuna , Bhagirathi , Mandakini and Alaknanda .
Sri Badrinath Dham
Badrinath the place of the God Vishnu in his aspect of Badrinarayan, is the main of the four Dhams in India's Char Dham pilgrimage. Positioned in the hills of Himalaya, at an altitude of 10,248 feet above sea level is extremely famous among the hindus. The path to Badrinath is one of the very grueling one owing to the haughty mountainous topography, bends and cliffs.It is the most amazing and fine-looking place on this entire earth.......More

Sri Kedarnath Dham
Kedarnath is one of the very popular pilgrimages for the religious Hindu and is positioned in the Uttaranchal state of India. Kedarnath, where a shape of the Lord Shiva is respected as one of the twelve jyotirling , is one of the four sites in India's pilgrimage Char Dham. More

Yamunotri Pilgrimage
Yamunotri, the starting place of the Yamuna River and the place of the goddess Yamuna, is also considered to be one of the four sites in India's Char Dham pilgrimage. The holy place of Yamunotri is on the left bank and was initially built by Maharaj Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal. The place of pilgrimage of Yamunotri is one of the "four dhams" of Uttaranchal. Yamunotri shrine is positioned in the way opposed to Gangotri and the road divides and goes to Yamunotri from Dharasu, a position connecting Rishikesh - Uttarkashi.
Gangotri Pilgrimage
Gangotri, the pleasing pilgrimage in the lap of the Himalayas is the most blessed destination where Ganga , the river of life feel the ground for the first time.

Located at 99 km from Uttrarkashi, at an altitude of 3140 meter this shrine is dedicated to the Goddess and was costructed nearly 250 years ago by Amar Bahadur Thapa, the Gorkha Commande

The Ultimate Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotels

The Ultimate Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotels If you are visiting Fort Lauderdale, one of the main reasons that you are going is to see the incredible beaches. For this reason, it makes sense to make sure that you are staying in one of the great Fort Lauderdale beach hotels where you will be able to see and smell the ocean, watch the amazingly beautiful sunsets from your own balcony and be just a stone's throw away from the white sand beaches. Otherwise, if these types of hotels are not in your financial plan there are still many Fort Lauderdale motels that are both affordable and are still within walking distance from the beautiful beaches. Either way, you are sure to have a ideal vacation in an amazing city. You should ensure the room quality and the price including the cost. If the beach is your center, then try and find ones that are either right on the beach or are inside a couple of blocks of it so that it doesn't become a chore for you to get to where you want to spend most of your time. If you are into the city nightlife, then look for a hotel that is close to the main strip of nightclubs, pubs, bars and restaurants where you can party the night away with your friends. If you are into the arts scene, look for a hotel that is adjacent to the galleries, theaters and shops where you can easily go out shopping and browsing and then get freshened up before going out to the theater for some live entertainment. It is also important to look at what is inside the hotel rather than just what it is located close to. Assume about what it is you need out of a room. Is it simply a place to sleep and get ready for all of your excursions or do you need more?. If you are there on business or just need to keep in call with family and friends back home, then check and see if they offer internet service. If you are on a budget and don't want to go out for dinner too much, see if there are any rooms with a kitchenette or even just a microwave oven and ask if there is a complimentary breakfast that comes with the room. If you can't live avoid your morning coffee, then a coffee maker or espresso machine is a must inside the room. If you are staying for a little while, then a laundry service can be a life saver. Think about what it is that you will require to use the room for and then ask questions about it before checking in on the Fort Lauderdale motel that you would like to stay in. You can have a enjoying stay in these locations. Enjoying the delicate dining choices, vibrant nightlife and incredible sunsets, it is hard not to fall in love with the place. The Motels and the Hotels are really a home away from your home. Whether your cause for coming to Fort Lauderdale is for business or pleasure, the comfort that every one of the hotels and motels offer is sure to make your hang out here one that you will not easily forget.

Weekends are for discovering in Singapore

For those working and living in Singapore a typical work week would involve plenty of stress, tight deadlines, swallowing lunch and long hours staring at a PC screen. This is of course until the weekend arrives. And what better way to take charge and recharge with a weekend getaway as Singapore is perhaps the best place to do it since it offers access to Malaysia and Indonesia.

Singapore offers beautiful getaways that are all within a short drive or an hour’s flight. The options are endless, from lazing on beautiful stretches of beach with pristine clear water or indulging in the relaxing charms of a spa, it’s just the beginning.

Towards the north one could choose to travel to Malaysia or Thailand, towards the south there’s beautiful Indonesia. In the south a ferry ride lasting about 45 minutes could take visitors to Batam or Bintan. The beaches here are absolutely amazing and are the perfect way to spend the day for those who love the outdoors.

Another place to find good beach getaways is the east of Malaysia, in Johor where the choice is between Desaru, Tioman or Pulau Sibu. The beach areas face the South China Sea and the water at these beaches is a beautiful turquoise colour.

Should doing a bit of shopping lift one’s spirits then what better place to find a shoppers’ paradise than at Bangkok, Thailand which is approximately two hours away by plane and shouldn’t cost too much with many budget carriers offering affordable means of travel.

Once in Bangkok the many markets open during the weekend offer the best bargains, even more so for those who have developed their bargaining skills. On the other hand those who have developed the upper hand in being streetwise will know quite easily how to discern a genuine product from those that have been reproduced.

If residents or tourists are too tired to travel, then Singapore itself offers the beautiful island of Sentosa which is close enough to reach. The beach side area offers good restaurants and cheap enough accommodation. However, for those with an appetite for seafood then Kukup in Malaysia is a must. Once known as a fishing village it offers fresh seafood that is affordable and absolutely delicious.

Sometimes weekend getaways are unplanned and a simple Singapore hotel reservation even at the last minute at a hotel could perhaps be the best break one needs. A boutique style hotel such as the Copthorne King’s Hotel Singapore offers amenities like a sauna and outdoor Jacuzzi which are just what the doctor ordered to recharge those batteries.

Singapore Cable Cars – A Thrilling Ride

Singapore began using the cable car system in 1974 and since then it has served as a means of linking Singapore to the beautiful resort of Sentosa which is located close to the Harbour of Keppel.

When it opened in the 1970’s the cable car system was the first aerial transport means in the world to extend across a harbour. However, it was not the first aerial rope system as they call it, to extend across an ocean. Although tourists refer to it as a cable car and now locals themselves have got accustomed to call it that, it is actually not an aerial tram but a gondola lift.

As a means of promoting tourism this cable way was supported by the government of Singapore during the 1960’s. It begins from Mount Faber which is located in Singapore Island. The project cost over US $5 million and was opened in February 1974.

At the time that it was declared open the Singapore cable car system had only 40 odd cabins. It was a tedious job for cabin attendants as they had to manually open and close the doors securely. A popular show during the 1970’s was the Hawaii Five O, which was filmed using the cabins and thereafter the cable cars increased in popularity. It grew so popular that over 50 cabins were added soon after. Another interesting point to note is that the world’s first mass wedding celebrations were also conducted on the cable cars towards the end of the 70’s.

The cable cars are not only a symbol of Singapore’s development but during its early years it was a major symbol of pride for the country, which still continues today. In the 80’s the cable cars came into the limelight again during the Miss World pageant. This was when Singapore was hosting it and contestants were treated to a ride in its cabins.

In 1999, the cable car system which had already achieved many firsts added another to its list when it introduced glass bottom cabins at the rate of US$30,000 per unit. And in the year 2000 about six more glass bottom cabins were added to the system bringing the total number of cabins to 81. In 2004, organisers put together a thrilling competition called ‘Survivng the Sky’ where teams of two members each had to survive in a suspended cabin for the longest time, within a 24 hour period.

The cable cars have been a source of sheer thrill, and have delighted many who have got on board; a ride is definitely a must on the list of things to do when visiting Singapore. Another must is to make a visit to Orchard Road, and enjoy a meal at a café at the Orchard Hotel Singapore. This hotel Singapore offers some delectable Cantonese fine dining in its restaurants. Geared to care for leisure and business travellers, the hotel is the perfect place from which to begin one’s day out in Singapore.

The Sky Tower - a different view of New Zealand

An iconic structure adorning the skyline of Auckland City in New Zealand is the Sky Tower. The tower which is used as a dual purpose observatory as well as a telcommunications platform is over 300 metres in height, from the bottom to the very top of the tower’s needle like tip.

When compared to the great towers of the world, it ranks as number 13 and is the tallest free standing structure in the southern hemisphere. The tower is quite popular and anyone who travels to Auckland is always curious to know what the city looks like from the tower. It accommodates more than a thousand visitors a day. Part of SKYCITY which is an Auckland casino it was originally intended to be part of ‘Harrah’s Entertainment’.

A café and restaurant can be found on the uppper section of the tower. A highlight of the tower is its unique revolving restaurant, which rotates 360 degrees, and moves every hour. From the floor where the main observatory is located visitors will find three observation sections or decks as they are called. The tower’s main antenna is just above the popular ‘Skydeck’. The main deck is situated at a height of 186 metres.

Perhaps the best way to conquer the fear of heights would be to indulge in the 192 metre high ‘Sky Jump’ at the observation deck, where jumpers are capable of reaching speeds of about 50 miles per hour. The speed is controlled from the cable and is the ultimate adrenaline rush.

The Auckland Peering Exchange known among locals as ‘The APE’ is also located in the tower, and uses a powerful aerial for its broadcasting and communication work. The antenna is said to have the capability of linking more than 50 wireless microwave links, making the antenna at the Sky Tower one of the world’s biggest FM gatherers.

Another reason as to why the Sky Tower is so popular is the fact that it is used as a means of literally highlighting various causes. For instance the colours of various causes are showcased by illuminating the tower in those specific colours. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month the tower is lit up in pink, during the Chinese New Year the colours are usually gold and red.

Recently a new lighting system for the tower was installed whereby the floodlights were replaced by LED lights in a bid to conserve the amount of energy used to light the tower. The previous floodlights were in use since the tower’s inception in 1997. The new system that has been put in place is said to use only 60 percent of the energy required earlier.

Visitors to Auckland should make it a point to add the Sky Tower to their list of things to do. In addition to this, other sites like the Vector Arena are also a must and are in close proximity to the Copthorne Hotel Auckland City. This Auckland hotel offers lovely views of the city and has all the essential amenities to make one’s stay a memorable one.

India Tourism - Rich Art Forms and Cultural Heritage

India – a sanctuary of tourism delights, a civilization to tour through. Number of tourists visiting India is rising at an alarming rate. Tourists come to India for its wealth of sights, cultural exuberance, diversity of terrain and in search of that special something, an extra punch that only India promises and delivers. It is not wrong to say that tour to India can be organized for various purposes either for exploring natural beauty or for paying a holy visit to various pilgrimage centers, etc.

If you really want to discover the captivating splendor of India tourism, then places like Taj Mahal, Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan, Kerala are the best choices. Similarly, sacred destinations like Golden Temple, Konark temple, Khajuraho etc are the most sought after destinations for those tourists who want to make a holy visit in India.

India tourism is not classified to pilgrimage centre or heritage sites, even the animal lovers can have a whale of the time while roving around the famous Kaziranga, Jim Corbett, Ranthambore, etc., national parks which are real treasure of diverse flora and fauna of India. Experience & Uncover the enchanting splendor of India tourism by various tour Packages as like : heritage tours, adventure tour, wildlife tour, pilgrimage tour packages and many other tour packages.

These packages are tailor-made and can be further customized as per the needs and requirements of the tourists. Although, India is one such a destination which is visited by numerous tourists throughout the year round, yet tourists prefer visiting India during festive season of Holi, Diwali, Christmas, etc. to get a glimpse of high-spirited celebrations made by Indian people during these colorful festivals. It is not wrong to say that by availing these tour packages, one can surely get a brief insight of the eternal Indian tourism of which it boasts for.

An Orlando Vacation Villa in Windsor Hills Resort: The Ideal Disney Florida Holiday

An Orlando vacation villa offers the ideal Disney Florida holiday, particularly if it is situated in the magnificent Windsor Hills resort. Have you any idea just how luxurious these vacations in Orlando are? If you are still using hotels for your Disney holidays in Florida, then obviously not!

Nobody that has spent their vacation in one of these villas, especially in Windsor Hills resort, could ever use a hotel again. It's not only the cost, and we shall come back to that later, but mainly the sheer ambience, luxury and quiet that you get, and what more can you want on an Orlando vacation except perhaps the fun and entertainment for which any Orlando resort is famed.

Let's have a look at three distinctly different groups of people (you likely fit into one of them), and how they can enjoy a Disney Florida holiday using an Orlando vacation villa as their home base. Even if you can't identify with one of these, you will be close, I promise you.

1. The Small Family

The difference between a small and a large family is all relative of course (Ha! Ha!), but let's assume a small family comprises two partners and their two children - a boy and a girl aged about 12 - 15 or so. Had they booked a hotel, they would have had to have three rooms - kids of that age and different genders cannot share a room. This is a common situation, so you have, say, 3 hotel rooms in Orlando for 7 days, 6 nights.

I won't even estimate the prices of the hotel rooms, although a four-bedroom villa will cost less than $190 in high season. That sleeps 6, so even if your kids bring their friends, there's more than enough room. Three bathrooms, 4 TVs and 3 DVD players, and a PS2. You also get your own kitchen, so no having to pay for room service for a burger at the end of the night. If you aren't bothered about your kids' friends, get a 4 -bed condo for only $125 a night.

Thinks of these prices, and that's the last I will say about it. At $145, that's less than $50 per room, and at $125, it comes to exactly $31.25 each. You can get your own pool for $55 total extra for the week.

2. The Large Family

If you are on vacation with a large family - perhaps several children and some aunts and uncles, the price for a 6 bedroom Orlando vacation villa in the Windsor Hills resort comes to $24.50 each for a party of 10 in mid-summer. That gives you the ideal Disney Florida holiday in a luxury villa for less the price of a cabin or trailer/caravan.

3. The Golfers

The third group is the golfing buddies. They are not so much interested in Disney World Florida, but they will be in the Windsor Hills resort with all its sporting facilities, video rental and store. You can enjoy your day on the golf course, and then get back to your villa with a few beers from the supermarket (no hotel bar prices), rustle up a few burgers or hot dogs without paying room service, and sit by your pool enjoying a great evening. Maybe hire a video and watch that on your 50+ inch flat screen TV.

The one thing in common with each of these groups is that there is more than enough sleeping accommodation, you have a private pool, but best of all, you have your own kitchen, freezer, dishwasher and clothes washer/dryer. Saves you a fortune over hotels, and when you add to that the benefits of the resort then it's a no-brainer for your Disney Florida holiday.

The vast majority of people that have tried an Orlando vacation villa have never gone back to a hotel, cabin or anything else, and when that has been situated within the bounds of the Windsor Hills resort, only 5 minutes from Disney - easy walking distance - with all that the resort has to offer, then they have unanimously declared it sheer perfection as accommodation for their Disney vacation. They also question the ultra-low price when they first see it, but the reason is very obvious once explained.

No restaurant and staff, no daily cleaners, no waiters, bellhops, reception staff, bar staff, captains, laundry or anybody else needed to run a good hotel. No lights on all day or anything else needed by guests. It's just like home: sure, you have to clean up, but you can pay extra to have it done for you. However, don't judge your Orlando vacation villa just by comparing it to a hotel.

These villas are just like home, with separate bedrooms, some have games rooms and you also have a kitchen and lounge, with plenty entertainment units such as a games console, TVs, VCRs DVD players, some have Bose radios and all the rest that turns just a villa into a luxury villa.

If you intend having a Disney Florida holiday next year, book an Orlando vacation villa, and if you can get one in the Windsor Hills resort, then so much the better. See you there!

5 Occasions to Hire a Limo in London

A limo hire in London can give a glamorous and memorable turn to any occasion in your life. There are different types of limousines available to be hired in London that suits your taste aw well as the occasion. Before hiring a limo in London, consider the type and colour of limo you want to hire depending upon the occasion and number of people you wish to host. Limousine companies nowadays offer amenities like open bar, LCD televisions, audio systems, DVD players, ice coolers, mini kitchen, flashing lights, karaoke systems and a lot more, rather than just air condition and a trained chauffeur.

The top 5 occasions for limo hire in London are:

1. Weddings: Wedding is one of the most memorable occasions in your life. A limo hire in London can make your wedding more exciting and unforgettable. A limo ensures that the bride and the bridal party are picked up on time, surprising them with the innovative reception. While pink limos are for fairy tale weddings, white limos are quite popular for classic weddings. The cost of hiring a limo varies with the type of wedding. A two way journey to church and to the reception venue would cost much less than some lavish Asian marriage where the newly weds travel to temples in limos.

2. Parties: A limo hire in London can spice up your party and elevate your status among your friends and business associates. Whether it is a birthday bash or a wedding anniversary, give yourself and your guests a memorable experience. The neon lights, strobe lights, disco floors, the music system and luxurious ambience make you feel like a millionaire and present you with a perfect party experience. Unlike partying at home or at a club, your party can begin in a place and end somewhere else if you plan it inside a hired limo.

3. Executive Hiring: Travelling in a limo to corporate meetings makes a style statement for business executives. It is true that a limo hire in London would not get you faster but it will give you the feeling of a safe, secured, smooth travel and the confidence to face a demanding situation. Stretched limo in black is a popular choice for highflying corporate executives.

4. Hen and Stag Nights: An increasingly popular occasion for limo hire in London is hen and stag nights. This is the time when would-be brides and grooms celebrate their last night of independence in style. Wine, music, and lights are integral parts of the fun and celebration. The colour of the limo, ambience and amenities should be selected accordingly to match the mood.

5. School Proms: School prom is the short form of promenade, a formal dance or gathering of high school students held at the end of the senior year. This is one of the popular occasions for limo hire in London. Limousines have become an integral part of school proms in London. The most popular
limousine for this occasion is the ‘Hummer H2’ limo in black, white, pink and yellow. ‘Audi Q7’, ‘Baby Bentley’ and ‘Range Rover Sport’ are other top picks for school proms.

Compare the rates, models, and accessories offered by various agencies online to select an appropriate limo for any occasion. Now you are ready to celebrate your special event with the luxury of a limo.

asions to Hire Limos in Coventry

Be it a romantic evening or a fun filled night out with friends or if you want to impress a client or if it is any other special event, a Limousine should be your first preference for the transportation. There are very less number of people who don't get impressed by the style of limos and the facilities offered by them. There are different types of limos for different occasions. Some of the main occasions in which limos can be hired are:

Weddings
The wedding day can be made more glorious and precious by hiring the car for that day. Arriving at your wedding or at your reception in a limousine adds elegance, prestige and style to your personality making it a more memorable experience. A white stretch Lincoln Town car or a Chrysler Baby Bentley limo is just ideal for your special day. Limos can be hired for the best man, bridesmaid and the bride and the groom. What can be more graceful than the bride arriving and getting down from a limo on her very special day? For Asian weddings, Hummer limos or Audi Q 7 limos can be hired for the wedding day.

A Romantic Evening
Planning to hire a limo for a romantic evening with the special person is a great idea to start with. Arriving at the theatre or opera or a ballet in a limousine with your partner helps you to maintain your status and class. Ending the evening with a lovely dinner and drop at your home by the limousine ends the romantic evening with perfection.

Clubbing with Friends
If you are planning a night out for clubbing with your friends then hiring a limousine for the transportation is a great option. Inside a limousine car all types of facilities are available. A bar, music systems, proper lightings and other facilities are available to set the mood for a party. Hiring a limo is ideal for bar hopping and clubbing. The drivers of limousine cars are quite reliable. All your friends and you will be dropped safely at respective houses and this is because whenever a limo is given for hire, these services are also provided.

Meeting a Client
Hiring limousines for important business deals is a great idea. Any client would love to get a pickup from the airport by a limousine, waiting outside for him. Many deals depend on whether the client is impressed or not, in which case, a limousine can play a major role.

Sports Day
The most popular limos for sporting events are Hummer H2 limos. Getting a service to and from the event of a race day by a limo adds to your class and style.

A Trip to the Theatre or Opera
Hiring a limousine for a trip to the theatre or opera is no doubt a better option than hiring any ordinary car. A pink limousine to watch the musical drama is absolutely perfect for the evening.

Important Festivals
Any limousine car can be hired for an important festival or to celebrate a religious day with style and luxury.

Reasons and occasions are not limited to hire a limousine car. Whenever you feel like spending an event or any occasion with style and luxury, you may hire a limo and enjoy all its services and facilities

Best of Transylvania Motorcycle Tour

Although many prefer the warm and comfort of a car ride some chose to travel a different way. In change the seat belt into a driving helm, the car radio into the sound of the wind blowing through the ears and the four robust wells into two agile and fast ones. These people like to be in the heart of the adventure not to look at it, to be the ones to tell the stories, not listen to them, to touch not only to see

For these people Transylvania Live – Expert in Transylvania created a motorcycles tour, using BMW F650 GS, F800 and GS 1200 a tour focused on revealing the essence of Transylvania. Departing from Cluj Napoca, one of Transylvania’s largest urban centres and a city with an outstanding medieval atmosphere, one of the oldest settlements in Transylvania, dating back prior to the Roman period, the itinerary ventures into the heart of the county offering rides trough picturesque villages, breathtaking scenery and important cultural centres. The itinerary is complimented by excellent accommodations meant not only to provide you with all the comfort but also to introduce you to the local culture and capture the specificity of the visited area.

The journey will take you throughout Transylvania and the Carpathians Mountains; these are the very best parts of Romania. The main roads are mostly quiet and on the minor roads traffic is the exception. The scenery is magnificent. Unlike anywhere in the regulated EU there are limitless possibilities for gentle off road riding where a road bike is fine and where you might see a horse and cart every half hour.

From Cluj Napoca you travel to the little town of Turda and prepare to descend to the heart of one of the biggest salt mines in the country – Turda Salt Mines, with impressive halls named after kings and queens.

The journey continues to Medias. Its beautiful medieval centre welcomes the riders to catch a glimpse of the ancestral lifestyle of Transylvania. You’ll make the acquaintance of a unique artist, the only one who uses spider web for his paintings. Visit Sibiu, the European Capital of Cultural for 2007. Visit one of its major highlights, The Village Museum – an outdoor exhibition of peasant settlements from all over the country.

Breathtaking sceneries will accompany the riders as they travel through the he most crooked and challenging of Europe's roads for motorcyclists, the Transfagarasan (Transfagarasan Pass has about 6800 feet high).

Leaving the beautiful Transfagarasan road behind, visit the enchanted Bran Castle, Transylvania’s symbol. A former fortress guarding a commercial road, Bran dates back to 1377. In 1920, Queen Mary, the niece of Queen Victoria of Great Britain, turned the castle into a beautiful summer residence.
Ride next to Rasnov to visit The Peasant Citadel. Standing on top of a hill and overlooking an incredible Transylvanian landscape, Rasnov is the best preserved peasant fortification in Transylvania and the largest one in Eastern Europe, first documented in 13 century.
The road will next take you to explore Brasov, a city with an outstanding medieval atmosphere which has played a vital role in Romania’s history, both old and new. It is one of the best preserved medieval cities in Europe.

Sighisoara one of Europe’s most beautiful and still inhabited fortified cities with UNESCO European heritage site status is included in the itinerary. Sighisoara is also the place where Vlad the Impaler, known as Dracula, was born. Submerge yourself in the medieval atmosphere by visiting Sighisoara’s main attractions.

After that head for Dracula’s Castle on Borgo Pass, built in accordance to Bram Stoker’s imagination on the border between Transylvania and Moldavia. To test your courage, visit Dracula’s Coffin in the dungeon of the castle.

Explore the magical traditional land of Maramures, renowned for the art of wood carving, tailoring and pottery. Discover one of the highest wood constructions in Europe, Barsana Nunnery. It’s located in a gorgeous natural setting close to the banks of Iza River. It is considered one of the most beautiful monasteries of Maramures. This journey will also take you to the Merry Cemetery; it owes its name to the vivid colors of the headboards on which are painted scenes narrating the biography of the deceased. The images are accompanied by lyrical, ironic simple rhyming stanzas. Ride next to Baia Mare, the capital City of Maramures County, located at the foot of Eastern Carpathians, one of the most important urban centers in North Romania.

After traveling over 1485 km in 7 days, it is time to ride into the sunset, leaving the enchanted lands of Transylvania behind and returning home

Family Fun: Attractions And Activities For Those Visiting Maui By Crystal McKenzie

Maui provides a wide variety of options for all different types of visitors coming to the island including singles, couples and families. Although Maui has been known to be a romantic getaway spot, it is also one that has a wealth of options for the large amount of families that come to vacation on this magnificent island. The following paragraphs will highlight some of the popular family fun activities and attractions which will amaze and delight the entire family.

Specialty Sea Cruises

As Maui is surrounded by beautiful water, one may wish to take their family to an attraction where water is the key component. There are a number of specialty sea cruises that offer activities for families to take part in. One type of sea cruise that is extremely popular amongst families is the whale watching sea cruise. Held between the months of December and April, one can venture out into the ocean to catch a glimpse of these great animals. One particular cruise company that hosts tours of this nature is Maui-Molokai Sea Cruises.

Another wonderful sea cruise adventure to take part in is one which takes individuals on snorkeling tours. Snorkeling is a great activity for the whole family to join in, as it is not as in-depth as scuba diving can be yet individuals who go snorkeling can be in the water with a wide variety of sea life. There are a number of cruise companies which offer snorkeling tours as well.

Luaus

Luaus are a great place for families to get together and have a wonderful bonding experience on their vacation. The luau is not only a dinner but an all out event. Families can attend luaus and take part in delicious Hawaiian feasts while enjoying a number of festivities as well. Activities such as hula dancing, fire knife dances and drumming spectaculars are a big part of the luau. Luaus are held at a number of the hotels on the island and each has their own unique aspects to them.

Beaches

Visiting one or all of the many beaches on the island is a great thing to do with the family. While on the beach, the family members can swim, play beach games or simply bask in the sun while enjoying one another’s company. Some of the most beautiful beaches are located on Maui and taking the family to the beach for a day of sun and fun is a great family activity.

Helicopter Rides

For those parents who really want to wow the kids, booking a helicopter tour is a great way to show the little ones the island of Maui. From the sky, the family members will be able to see the lush forests, sparkling waters and vast countryside. Some helicopter rides even come in combination packages with other activities such as horseback riding included within them. Helicopter tours are extremely popular on Maui and there are a number of great helicopter tour companies that provide a wide range of options for families hoping to book one in order to see the island from overhead.

Hiking Tours

Hiking is quite a popular activity in the Hawaiian Islands and especially on the island of Maui. There is so much to see while hiking around the island and the wide array of tour types is evidence of this. One can book a hiking tour to see a number of magnificent areas on the island such as rainforests, waterfalls, craters and mountains. One should determine what tour is best for them by considering what areas they would like to see, the age of the children, the hiking ability of each family member and the amount which they would like to spend per person on a hiking tour. One really cannot make a bad choice when it comes to the type of tour to take as each setting has a uniqueness and beauty all its own.

Bike Tours

For those families who have older children, taking a bike tour on Maui is another great activity for the family to take part in. As many of the bike tours take individuals quite a good distance and cater to certain skill levels, companies may require that all participants be at least 12 years old or older in some cases. However, if the family is comprised of parents and teens, then considering a bike tour is a wonderful option. The bike tours vary in length, ability level and route, yet each has their own special qualities to them which make them a great activity to pursue on Maui.

The previously mentioned items are just a few different activities for families to try while they are staying on the island of Maui. The important thing to remember is that as long as the family is together, whatever activity is pursued is sure to be a great time.

Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=70366&ca=Travel

Shopping For Travel Souvenirs By Karen Joslin

Whether touring a novel destination or a favorite stand-by, one of the best parts of vacationing is bringing home souvenirs. Some people enjoy collecting particular items, such as coins, spoons, magnets, Christmas ornaments, or stamps. Of course, you'll also find mass-produced tourist trinkets at any popular destination. While there's nothing wrong with these items, they don't always impart the true feel of a place.

For more unique mementos, shop for native products. Not only are such items authentic to the region, you may also get a first-hand experience with the maker. For instance, crafters in Dominica create their goods while you watch. Since they make items differently every time, if you want something, buy it right away. That's a good rule of thumb in other places, too. Even if the item is still available, you might not be able to go back and purchase it.

Arts and crafts make great souvenirs. Some of the signature items you'll find in the Caribbean include carnival masks (Puerto Rico), batiks (St. Lucia and Barbados), Creole dolls (Martinique), caymanite (a semi-precious stone from the Cayman Islands), and modern interpretations of Taino cave paintings (Jamaica). If you'll be adding your purchase to your home décor, consider how it will fit in with what you already have.

In some cultures, haggling is expected and considered an important part of the social interaction. If you do haggle with vendors, keep it fun and remember that they need to make a living, too. Tourists from prosperous regions like the U.S., Canada, and Europe will likely find prices are still lower than those found in their home countries for similar goods. Even so, cost can be a consideration. Street vendors are more budget-friendly, and many of these artists are talented at what they do. Browsing their wares can be a lot of fun and yield unexpected treasures. When cost isn't an issue, art galleries and upscale boutiques showcase the best an area has to offer.

One of the most distinctive features of any culture is its music. Even if you don't attend a large concert, you'll often find musicians playing in public places. If you like what you hear and they've got CDs for sale, why not buy one? Or get some local music at a CD shop. When you're home and want to recapture the feeling of your vacation, just give it a listen.

Even consumable goods, such as cigars, coffee, food specialties, and soaps can prolong memories of your trip. Although they won't last forever, they can be an enjoyable reminder while you use them. Some, such as Sint Maarten's guavaberry liqueurs, may be difficult or impossible to find elsewhere.

In countries affected by colonial rule, travelers will often find goods from their mother countries, as well. For instance, Aruba offers traditional Dutch items like wooden shoes, windmills, and Delft pottery alongside native products.

Of course, there's always the lure of duty-free shopping. And even when shopping isn't duty-free, prices on luxury items may still be significantly less than what you'd pay at home. While these things won't be specific to your vacation spot, they can still serve as nice souvenirs. Many countries place limits on how much you can buy duty-free; after the maximum dollar amount, you'll have to pay taxes.

Travelers should be aware of other regulations regarding their purchases, too. While some goods may be easy to buy while you're visiting, they may not be allowed into your country. Produce, live plants, and animals are among the top offenders. Products made from endangered species may be both illegal to buy and to transport. If you're caught with banned items your souvenirs will be confiscated and you may be fined.

Wherever you journey, a little bit of research will go a long way towards ensuring that your travel mementos will provide you with many years of happy memories.

Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=69918&ca=Travel

A Quick Break From The Rat Race In Georgia By Richard Rspad

If you live in the South, the opportunity to take a day or weekend off from life is a must. Georgia offers the perfect combination of convenience and things to do.

When planning a short trip in the Southern United States, Georgia is a great place to start. Georgia is great for romantic retreats, honeymoons and family trips. Georgia offers mountain views, fabulous beaches and historic sites that are all perfect for that short relaxing stay. Whether you're looking for adventure or just a place to take in the beauty of the genteel South, Georgia offers all you are looking for and more.

One great city to visit in Georgia is Savannah. Cloaked in an air of mystery and the subject of books and movies, Savannah, Georgia is a quintessential Southern city. The city was founded in 1733, as Georgia's first city, when the colony's founding father James Oglethorpe landed there with the colony’s first 120 settlers. Savannah features 21 squares in a grid, making it America's first “planned city”. The exquisite architecture is characteristic of early Southern plantations and opulent 19th century mansions. While here, walking and trolley tours are available to see the city's many historic buildings and sites.

Savannah isn't all history, however. While here, one can shop to their heart's content, whether in the Historic District's cobblestone River Street shops or in the Southside's shopping malls. Savannah also has an antique district at the streets of Broughton and Bull, where those who prefer history in their souvenirs can find that as well. Eating in Savannah can be a grand experience, too, with restaurants here ranging from haute cuisine to down home country cooking and everything in between.

When planning a few days off in Georgia, you need somewhere to stay. Savannah offers historic inns and bed and breakfasts in the Historic District that can't be beat. One such inn is the newly restored Planters Inn, located on Abercorn Street. This inn offers Southern hospitality and warmth that's characteristic of Savannah, as well as fine dining at the Olde Pink House Restaurant. Packages are available for your stay at the Planters Inn, such as a Romance package that includes champagne and a horse drawn carriage ride.

Staying in Savannah, Georgia is an experience you won't soon forget. If you like to look at great architecture, shop, enjoy fine food and accommodations, this city is definitely for you!

Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=69989&ca=Travel

Secrets For Sensational Safari Photos By James Weis

Exploring wilderness areas on safari and viewing wildlife in its natural habitat is a breathtaking experience and to capture this experience photographically is especially gratifying.

When you’re on safari in Africa, you can expect to take most of your photos from within a Land Rover, car or boat since the vehicle allows a safe approach to getting close to wild animals. Some areas offer walking safaris with a guide, but photographing wild animals on foot is more dangerous and does not permit the close proximity of a vehicle or boat. Remember that stalking and approaching wild animals is potentially dangerous. Although most animals do not view a vehicle as a threat, almost all will run away from humans on foot. As a result, photographing wild animals on foot is far more challenging – plus, you have to carry all your equipment. For walking safaris, I recommend bringing only your best zoom lens as it offers the most versatility.

When photographing from a vehicle, it is best to turn off the engine before attempting to take any photographs. Although the vibrations from the vehicle’s engine may seem inconsequential, they will ultimately be noticeable in your pictures, especially if you are using a telephoto lens. Using a tripod from an open-air vehicle or boat is quite possible if you have a private vehicle or have only one or two passengers per row of seats. If you don’t have a tripod, be sure to use whatever support is available (bean bag, monopod, roof-top) to avoid camera shake.

Tips for Getting Started

The following are some tips to get you started on your safari photo adventure:

If you plan to be on safari for many days, be sure to bring enough digital storage. You never want to be faced with passing up an excellent photo opportunity or having to delete good images.

Know your camera - you don’t want to miss a shot! Because many scenes, especially those with a high degree of contrast, can fool your camera’s automatic metering, practice using your camera’s exposure compensation and also the different metering options (spot, center-weighted and evaluative).

Experiment with shooting moving objects and anticipating the action. Some of your best images will be of animal interactions and animals on the move (birds flying, zebras running, lions hunting).

Be patient and wait for things to happen - you’ll be rewarded with spectacular opportunities. Also, when you get to a location, really take time to listen and observe- most of my best sightings have come when the vehicle is turned off and listening for clues. Constantly driving around will not yield good results.

Try to include something in the foreground to enhance the sense of depth when photographing landscapes. Something as simple as a rock, a termite mound or a person will effectively add scale and interest to your composition.

Always be sure to focus on an animal’s eyes whenever possible. Having the eyes in sharp focus will make the difference between an image which works and one which is a throw-away.

Animals don’t stay in one place for very long, so be prepared. Always move cautiously, slowly and smoothly and stay the recommended distance when photographing or observing wildlife. ALWAYS be respectful of wild animals and never pressure or stress them.

Don’t hesitate to go out on “bad” weather days--some of the most striking images are captured during inclement weather.

In summary, for many people photography is one of the most essential parts of an African safari. Photographs are much more than just a record of where you have been and what you have seen—they are something to look back on in later years or a way of sharing your experience with friends and family back at home. In addition, many people get as much enjoyment out of taking the photos themselves as they do in seeing the animals and sights and they will take great satisfaction in their photos for years to come.

Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=71861&ca=Travel

Historically - Anne Frank House By Rahul Viz

Anne Frank was one of the Jewish victims of Nazi persecution during the Second World War. The building consists of two parts - a front house and a back annex. Otto Frank's business was located in the front house. The uppermost floors of the back annex became the hiding place. After more than two years the group was betrayed and deported. Anne and Margot died of typhus in Bergen-Belsen in March 1945, only a few weeks before this concentration camp was liberated. Otto Frank, the only member of the group to survive, returned after the war.

For more than two years Anne Frank and her family lived in the annex of the building at Prinsengracht 263 where Anne’s father, Otto Frank, also had his business. The Van Pels family and Fritz Pfeffer hid there with them. The doorway to the annex was concealed behind a moveable bookcase constructed especially for this purpose. The office personnel knew of the hiding place and helped the eight people by supplying them with food and news of the outside world. On August 4, 1944, the hiding place was betrayed. The people in hiding were deported to various concentration camps. Only Otto Frank survived the war.

During the hiding period Anne Frank kept a diary. In it she described daily life in the back annex, the isolation and the fear of discovery. Anne’s diary survived the war: after the betrayal it was found by Miep Gies, one of the helpers. When it was confirmed that Anne would not be returning, Miep gave the manuscripts to Otto Frank. In 1947 the first Dutch edition appeared. Since then the diary has been published in more then 55 languages.

At present, the rooms at the Anne Frank House, though empty, still breathe the atmosphere of that period of time. Quotations from the diary, historical documents, photographs, film images, and original objects that belonged to those in hiding and the helpers illustrate the events that took place here. Anne’s original diary and other notebooks are on display in the museum. In the multimedia space, visitors can go on a “virtual journey” through the Anne Frank House, accessing background information about the people in hiding and World War Two. A contemporary exhibition is presented in the exhibition hall.

Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=71767&ca=Travel

Cruise The Caribbean For Fun And Relaxation By Lorraine Weston

Ask someone to picture their perfect vacation, and you will usually get an answer that involves the words sun, sand and water. The perfect way to relax is to get far away from your daily routine and relax in the warm sun. If this sounds like the vacation for you, what you need is a Caribbean cruise.

If you truly want to experience the feeling of living on a boat, or, if you are looking for a cost-efficient way to see the Caribbean, you’ll find this aboard a mid-size cruise ship. Mid-size ships offer most of the luxuries of a large ship, but for a more economical price.

If you are nervous at the thought of sailing on the ocean, or, if you want to be pampered, a large cruise ship should be your choice. These ships contain their own swimming pools, spas, restaurants, dance floors, and much more.

No matter which size of cruise ship you choose, you will be sure to have the time of your life! No cruise would be complete without a few stops along the way, and your cruise ship would be stopping at some of the beautiful islands in the Caribbean ocean. You can shop for local hand-made crafts, explore the islands, or go sailing or snorkeling in the tropical waters. Some islands will host a feast or traditional performance – something you don’t want to miss!

If you only have a few days, or are travelling on a small budget, three and four-day cruises are available. Even though you may be away for less than a week, you’ll still come back feeling as refreshed and reenergized as if you’d been gone for a month! Often, all we need is a change of scenery and time to relax, no matter how long or short it is. If you want to get away from it all, splurge on a two-week Caribbean cruise; you’ll see more of the tropics and have time to get used to being waited on hand and foot!

There are numerous cruise lines to choose from, with ships sailing from several different ports at all times of the year. With a bit of research on the Internet or at a local bookstore or travel agent, you can find the Caribbean cruise that is perfect for you!

Resource: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=71821&ca=Travel