Posts Tagged ‘culture’
Why Thailand Is A Great Holiday Destination
April 25, 2010
On the must see list for any world traveler should be the country of Thailand. It is well known as a top tourist destination for people all over the world. Many people fall in love with the country and return time and again.
One could go on and on about the many great reasons to visit Thailand. It has cultural and historic sites that date back thousands of years as well as some of the greatest beaches on the planet. It’s no wonder tourism is one of it’s major industries.
If you like to mix in culture and history along with sitting at the beach than Thailand is the place for you. The many Buddhist temples that dot the countryside, along with many great palaces can fill your days with sightseeing. You can also experience the beauty of an Issan dance troop at one of the many cultural centers for a little added enjoyment.
The capital of Thailand is Bangkok. It is a very metropolitan city that can cater to all tastes. It has a very vibrant nightlife to offset the hectic big business atmosphere of any large city. It is also home to some of the countries best known temples and palaces.
Thailand has some of the best tropical beaches on the planet. White sand, tall palm trees, and azure blue waters setup an ideal tropical resort setting. The crowd of visitors to the place includes, backpackers, families, and single tourists. There really is something for everyone.
One of the top islands is Koh Samui. It was once a sleepy beach visited mainly by backpackers looking to take in the full moon parties and cheap accommodations. It’s popularity has grown and now there are just as many families and high end resorts as their are backpackers. It still has some great tropical beaches and world class SCUBA diving.
Also high on the list is the island of Phuket in the Andaman Sea. It is comprised of three main resort locations. Kamala Beach, Karon Beach, and Patong Beach are the most popular. While Patong is know for its nightlife, Kamala and Karon are a little more laid back and family friendly. Phuket is also close to James Bond Island, a very popular day trip.
Thailand is well known as a travel destination for many very good reasons. If you are looking to try something a little different and experience a bit of Asia, then you should definitely have this as a stop on your itinerary.
Robert writes a series of Pattaya Thailand hotel reviews for the website Pattaya Thailand Essentials.
An Introduction To The Tourist Places In Syracuse
April 21, 2010
Syracuse is one of the oldest consistently occupied places in the whole Italy. Archaeologists place the first settling in Syracuse at about 800 BC which makes Syracuse nearly three thousand years old. Today, Syracuse is a small town with a population of only around 120,000.
However, the prosperous history of Syracuse is evident in many of the historical sightseeing opportunities that are to be found around the city. Below we’ve mentioned just a few interesting things to do in Syracuse.
The Cathedral in Syracuse is probably among the oldest in Italy as the original structure upon which it is erected used to be a Greek temple dating back to the 5th century BC. The Cathedral is open for the public to view and is probably a good place to start a sightseeing tour of Syracuse because it is quite centrally located.
Archaeological artefacts from Syracuse and other centres of art can be seen in the Paulo Orsi Archaeological Museum that boasts of having a wide-ranging collection of exceptional Roman and Greek artefacts in the entire county. This museum is open to public for an entry fee of 4.50 Euros.
The Syracuse Neapolis Archaeological Park is a great excavation place that depicts the nature of life in Syracuse in the early Roman period.
You can roam about the site at your will if you pay an entry pass fee of 4.50 Euro. The major landmark of this site is the Greek theatre that dates back to the 5th century BC.
There is also a Roman amphitheatre which is around 2000 years old, and would have been used for gladiatorial battles.
As the name would indicate, this museum is dedicated to showcasing art from the medieval era right up to modern day contemporary art.
There are various works of art in sculpture and painting that can be found in this museum in Syracuse although there is an emphasis laid on local art.
Cycling across Italy is a wonderful way to enjoy the charm of rural Italy. For more detailed guidance on things to do in Syracuse please click on the preceding links.
Historical Tourist Places In Vicenza
April 7, 2010
Vicenza is a small town situated in the north east of Italy. Vicenza is the capital of the Veneto region which also includes the renowned Italian town of Venice. Vicenza is situated about 200km east of Milan. The town of Vicenza has a population of just over 110,000 and has traditionally been a major centre of the Italian textile industry.
In later years Vicenza has become a manufacturer of computer parts. Even though Vicenza is not a major city on the average tourist’s travel plan, it’s closeness to Venice and the presence of a few constructions and sights of attraction make it worthy of at least a short stop over. Below we’ve described a few of the sightseeing highlights of Vicenza.
The Basilica Palladiana that belongs to the 16th century and was designed by the famous sculptor Andrea Palladio whose works inspired the renaissance artists of Italy a great deal is one of the most significant architectural wonders of Vicenza.
The Basilica Paddiana is centrally located in the Piazza dei Signori which makes it easily accessible and a best place from which to embark on a sightseeing tour of Vicenza.
Tourists who relish in viewing the pieces of art should make a visit to the Civico Museum in Vicenza where several finest pieces of art that manifest the beauty of the Italian art are displayed. This museum is kept open between 9am and 5pm.
The Monte Berico Basilica is another architectural wonder that is located atop a hill in the fringes of the town of Vicenza. A panoramic view of the entire town can be had from this Basilica and hence the atmosphere here is serene in nature.
The current building on this spot in Vicenza dates back to the 18th century, although the significance of the actual place dates back much further.
This is supposedly the place where the Virgin Mary made two supernatural appearances. This basilica in Vicenza opens at 6.15am and closes at 7.30pm, although it closes for two hours in the afternoon from 12.30.
The Archaeological Museum in Vicenza may not be an important tourist spot but it boasts a good collection of artefacts that belong to the local areas and that were excavated recently.
The list of things to do in Vicenza cant be fully listed in a few hundred words. If you would like to read more about interesting things to do in Florence click on the link.
Tourist Destinations In Rome
April 2, 2010
The Colosseum in Rome draws great number of tourists from all corners of the world at all times of the year and so it is the most popular of all the tourist spots in Rome. Tourists can be seen thoroughly revelling in the Colosseum by taking photographs.
The Colosseum in Rome was the most important of the gladiator arenas in Rome and regardless of its age, its architecture stands in place.
The Palatine in Rome is a vast excavation of a part of the city of ancient Rome and provides some of the most insightful and amusing sightseeing enjoyments to be had in Rome. The Palatine in Rome used to be the wealthiest residential district of Rome and is replete with the remains of Roman mansions and the royal palace of Emperor Domitian.
Put aside some additional time to visit the Palatine in Rome because of its large area to be covered and since its proximity to the Colosseum is known it will be desirable to cover both the places in a single day. By spending 8 Euros you can see both these places.
The Roman Forum in Rome is an excavated area of what used to be a chief market place and public area in the ancient city of Rome. Public buildings and squares with statues on display are among the sightseeing attractions at the Roman Forum. Guided sightseeing tours of the forum are available in English at a cost of 4 Euros. This sightseeing attraction in Rome is open from 9-5 daily.
Capital Hill in the USA has its predecessor in the Capitoline Hill in ancient Rome. This was the ancient Rome’s headquarters of the municipal government and city council. A vast building that is excavated is an attraction here among several other unearthed pieces by the archaeologists.
In the major public square is situated the statue of Marcus Aurelius at the Capitoline Hill. There is also the world’s oldest Museum present in the Capitoline Hill. A visit to this Museum is a must.
The church of St Mary in Aracoeli is another major sightseeing attraction to be seen here complete with its magnificent fresco painting on it’s inside walls and a statue of Jesus.
The Piazza Venezia is the most popular tourist destination in Rome if you are to have a panoramic view of Rome. It houses the tomb of the Unknown Soldier and also the St. Mark Basilica.
A cycling tour of Italy is a pleasant means os seeing the countryside at a slow pace. For further info about Italian cultural assets click on our guide to things to do in Rome.
Details About The Tourist Places In Pisa
March 20, 2010
Pisa is a small town with a population of less than 100,000 situated in the north of Italy. Pisa is known chiefly for its leaning tower; however, there are some other tourist attractions in Pisa worthy of a visit. Pisa has a long history and served as a strategic naval base during Roman times.
Pisa rose to occupy the apex in military and economic fronts during the 12th century when it was considered as a chief maritime force and trading city as a result of which the major part of its architecture could be dated back to the 12th century. We have described a few of the tourist spots in Pisa below.
The Leaning tower of Pisa is without doubt the most well known sightseeing attraction in Pisa and probably one of the most known in Italy. Paradoxically, had the tower not been deficient it is doubtful that it would be so famous. Nevertheless the slant in this tower attracts tourists from far and wide who come to be photographed in front of the tower.
There is a limitation apropos the admission into Pisa due to safety reasons, however visitors are allowed to get into the tower from morning till the daily limit is reached. It costs 15 Euros towards the admission fee that may be paid in advance for certainty.
The baptistery in Pisa is where the majority of citizens in medieval Pisa would have been baptised into the Christian religion. The original structure of the baptistery in Pisa dates back to the 12th century although it was not fully finished until two centuries later.
As a result this piece of architecture in Pisa is very beautiful as it embraces both Romanesque and Gothic impacts. Once inside the baptistery you can find the pool-like shape carved out in the middle of the building which would have been filled with water and into which people would have been submerged as part of the baptism process.
The Cathedral in Pisa is an excellent evidence of Romanesque architecture that is so typical of the Tuscany region of Italy.
The building itself is believed to be built in the 11th century with grandiose interior supported by 68 columns. Green and white marble interiors are the attractions of the Cathedral in Pisa. Entrance fee to this Cathedral is 2 Euros.
A comfortable visit of Pisa is possible with the help of boat journeys that cost 5 Euros and that help the tourist to visit all the tourist spots in Pisa by travelling down the River Arno.
If you have an interest in art from the renaissance then be sure to read our guide on sightseeing in Florence. If you want further information about sightseeing in Pisa follow the hyperlinks.
What Are Some Of The Top Las Vegas Attractions?
March 20, 2010
Any trip to America and the west coastal area needs to take in a trip to Las Vegas. This city is famous the world over for many things and can make a great destination for anyone from families to couples and groups of friends looking to have a good time. But what are the top Las Vegas attractions?
The main reason for the fame of the city is because of all of its casinos and its links to the mob. Gambling is the number one draw for people to come here and they certainly will come from all over the world in order to take part in one of the many different gambling games that are on offer. With the glitz and glamour of the strip to see you will always be able to stroll down and find a superb casino where you will be able to try your hand at all sort of games. You can also get involved in one of the many shows on offer and sample some of the super stars and their talents who are constantly in the city.
Another common association with the city is the fact that people will often elope there are just get married. It has almost become something fashionable to do and many people will just have a quick ceremony in order to seal the deal rather than going through all of the effort and expense of a big wedding.
So what about all of the other things that the place has to offer. What can families get involved in?
Well, first of all you have the fountains at the Bellagio. This is one of the most famous land marks in the area and something that really needs to be seen for anyone going to the city. In fact, being that they are right in the middle of town you will not be able to miss them, with the water jets shooting all the way up to about 250 feet and encompassing an area of over 1000 feet. The best time to see these great fountains in during the evening when they are all lit up with different colours and choreographed to some great music.
Another great place to go if you are interested in wildlife is the lion habitat which is strangely situation in the MGM grand hotel and casino. Here you will get a number of lions all living in a natural world over several levels.
You can also take a look at secret garden and dolphin habitat. This is pretty much considered to be the official zoo in the city and it houses plenty of wonderful animals. If you are looking for anything that is comparable to sea world then it is certainly advised to set aside some time right here and take in all of the dolphin shows that you can manage.
Last of all, you should also make sure that you check out the adventuredome theme park. This is set inside and has all of the great offerings of one of the worlds best theme parks so should thrill adults and children alike.
Canadian auto club offering travel discount to its members such as: New York City vacation packages and Disney Theme Park Tickets
The Most Interesting NY Neighborhoods
February 28, 2010
Listing great things about Manhattan is the easiest thing in the world, there are so many of them. This vibrant, cosmopolitan city is loved by both those who live there and those who visit. A trip to New York is on everyone’s wish list.
I’ve done a great deal of exploring since I became a resident of Manhattan and the diverse people and places just blows me away. The only problem with New York is the sheer size of it; you never feel fully part of it, however hard you try.
Let’s leave the negatives behind and focus on the best that Manhattan has to offer. These are just a few of my personal recommendation for you to check out next time you come to take a bite out if the big apple.
I’ve tried out many places to eat and drink since I’ve been living here, and my favorites are in the eclectic East Village.
If you want to shop for clothes, grab a drink, or choose from a great variety of food styles, the East Village is the place for you. Geared towards the younger age group of twenties and thirties, this square mile is busy, vibrant and very cosmopolitan. The Lower East side borders it at the bottom and it’s very easy to cross from one to other without realising it.
Patrons with more maturity tend to congregate in the coffee bars that are set amongst the trees on the sidewalks of the West Village. Chic clothes boutiques attract a classy clientele, yet the area retains the vibrancy that New York is famous for.
If Bohemia isn’t your style and you want to spend some time at one with nature, then head for the Upper West Side. This area is home to the world famous Central Park, a beautiful place to relax for a few hours and watch the world go by.
I hope I’ve got across you what a great place Manhattan is, and that no trip to New York is complete without visiting this wonderful borough. Oh there’s more, believe me, but that’s enough for today!
This author additionally regularly blogs on topics like full over full bunk beds and the full platform bed.
How To Be A Mindful Traveler
February 25, 2010
These days, consumers are becoming more mindful about how their lifestyle affects the environment. For this reason, more people are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. One such area that is seeing an increase in ‘green’ consumers is the travel industry. More travelers are now becoming more mindful of the environment when they travel.
The following are a number of ways to be a mindful traveler:
1. Make sure that you book a flight on an airline that recycles the refuse left from serving beverages and food to their passengers. To help offset your carbon emissions, consider direct flights to your destination.
2. When you book your hotel, consider smaller accommodations. For instance, a homestay is much smaller and cozier than a large hotel. If you stay in a big hotel, check to see if there are any ‘green’ hotels in the area. Eco-friendly hotels will have implemented such ‘green’ measures as water conservation programs, energy efficient appliances, recycle and composting programs, and energy reducing programs. They will also incorporate ‘green’ practices in guest rooms such as recycling baskets and shampoo and soap dispensers. You can also do your part by using the same towels and linens during your stay and turn off the air conditioner and lights when you are away from the room. As well, consider a longer stay. If you stay in one spot instead of traveling from one hotel or resort to another, you will be reducing your carbon footprint instead of taking more flights.
3. Instead of using a rental car in your destination area, take advantage of public transportation such as a bus or hotel van. Whenever possible, try walking. It is good for your health, the environment, and you can get an up-close and personal look at the community.
4. When you are out in the community, be sensitive, and ask permission to take pictures of the locals. When possible, eat foods that have been grown locally rather than eating foreign foods that have to be imported. Make sure that you do your research before you go on your trip. It will help prevent any misunderstandings and will help show your respect for local customs and dress. It is important to be generous such as giving good tips. Make sure you do not engage in excessive haggling so you do not upset any vendors.
Before you leave home, you can begin your trip being ‘green’ by turning off your lights, turning down the thermostat, and adjusting the air conditioner. During your flight and while staying at your destination, there are many things you can do to be mindful of the environment and people. Not only will you be doing your part to conserve and protect the environment, it will make your trip even more enjoyable and memorable.
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