Showing posts with label Travel and Leisure. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Travel and Leisure. Show all posts

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Top 5 Most Famous World Attractions

Every country has some kind of attraction that gives it it’s claim to fame, some more deserving then others. Even the largest world potato manages to draw a large crowd of people eager to take a look. But there are more interactive, impressive, famous world attractions that can give you something new to experience, and fun to brag about.

Here is a list of 5 of the best world attractions, that you will actually want to see:

5). L’Aquariun de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain

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Located at the Port Vell, this aquarium is the perfect place to take the family. The many children’s activities that fill this enormous aquarium (the largest in Europe) will have your kids entertained for hours. The 21 tanks are filled with interesting and exotic marine life, which is education, and interesting, so you will be sure to enjoy the sights as well.

4). The London Dungeon, London, England

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One of the most popular tourist attractions in the UK, the London Dungeon is a huge exhibit featuring the macabre and gruesome, and introducing the visitor to the side of England that fairy tales tend to ignore. From the area dedicated to the Great Fire of London, to the room that exposes the horrible acts perpetrated by the infamous Jack the Ripper, anyone with a more morbid sense of interest will be fascinated here.

3). The Peak Tram, Victoria Peak, Hong Kong

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A tram system that runs along a route from the Central district of Hong Kong up to Victoria Peak, this railway has been up and running since 1881, when it was built by Alexander Smith, a businessman who owned a hotel located on Victoria Peak. Wanting to offer a more direct route to his establishment, he requested permission to create the Peak Tram, and the rest is history. Tourists and residents now can take the tram several times a day up and down, enjoying the breathtaking view along the way.

2). The Acropolis, Athens, Greece

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A collection of three temples, each depicting a difference aspect of the Greek Goddess, Athena, the Acropolis has long since been a focus of awe. Attracting millions of visitors a year, people will tour the temples, and the amphitheaters, taking in the structure of ancient beauty and grace. There is also a museum within these walls, that show off many of the original artifacts once found within.

1). The Eiffel Tower, Paris, France

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Long having been considered the greatest symbol of French architecture, the Eiffel Tower will always be one of the most visited, and recognized, structures in the world, as well as one of the most famous attractions. Built by Gustave Eiffel in between 1887 and 1889, this tower features an observation wing that gives the most incredible view of Paris you could ever imagine, drawing millions annually to it’s peak to witness the beauty of this city of love. There are two restaurants that have been added since it’s construction, the Altitude 95, and the Jules Verne, both of which are more then worth a visit.

Source :http://www.journeyetc.com

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Top 10 Tourist Destinations around the World



Graphic Source :www.wired2theworld.com

Paris

Paris tops the list of top 10 holiday destinations around the World. The capital of France, Paris or the City of Lights, is located by the River Seine and lies in the northern part of France and is a big city vibrant as well as attractive that is home to more than two million Parisians. Paris has some famous landmarks including the twelfth century cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris and of course, the world famous nineteenth century Eiffel Tower. Paris is also well known for the entertainment that one can savor including operas, of which the largest opera houses are the Opera Garnier as well as the more modern Opera Bastille.

Spain

Spain is a wonderful country that attracts many tourists thanks to its sunny climes and affordable holidays and there is also a lot to see and do in Spain. Spain is one of the most famous and popular holiday destinations in Europe. To name a few must see places in Spain include Estepona, Granada, Costa Calida, Valencia, Costa Blanca, and of course, Madrid the capital city!

United States

United States, or the United States of America, is one of the world’s wonderful tourist destinations, located in Northern America. United States boasts of such a great number of tourist attractions that it takes years to explore all of them! Few to mention are the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the Grand Canyon, the Mount Rushmore, the former spot of the World Trade Center in New York, Disneyland, Lincoln Park, and Las Vegas - the Entertainment Capital of the World.

China

The third largest country in the world – China is one of the important places in Asia, with great ethnic as well as cultural diversities. Apart from being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Wall, which can be seen even from the space, China has many fascinating tourist attractions from Shaolin Temple in Henan Province to Hong Kong to the gardens of Hangzhou.
Rome

Rome, a breathtaking city with a certain air of timelessness about itself, is the capital of Italy and the most populated commune in the country. The tourist season in Rome begins at Easter and continues up to October, spring and autumn being the peak periods when tourists pour in from various parts of the world. Some of the must see places in Rome include The Roman Forum, Concrete Roman Colosseum, The Pantheon, St Peterâ Square - The Colonnades.
Greece

Greece is a wonderful country that has a very rich history of culture as well as values and is home to the earliest civilizations and it also is the birthplace of the Olympics. Greece is a popular tourist destination that sees more than fifteen million tourists visiting the country every year to discover Greece for themselves. Greece has much to offer including the Acropolis, Peloponnese, Ancient Agora¸ Temple of Hephaestus, Athens, National Archaeological Museum¸ Andros Island, and several interesting festivals, like the Rockwave Festival.

Goa

Goa, with its charming beaches, thrilling nightlife, exotic cuisines, and historic edifices, and a unique blend of Konkani and Portuguese, it is one of the much sought after anytime summer holiday destinations in India. Another aspect you may note about Goa is the carnival atmosphere it wears all the time. This is a phenomenon you cannot sense anywhere else in India. For a vacation with a difference, this is the place you should visit.

Mexico

Mexico, or the United Mexican States as it is officially known, is a wonderful country located to the south of Texas and is a part of North America. Mexico is the seventeenth most mega-diverse country in the world having more than two thousand different species and it has ten to twelve percent of the biodiversity of the world.

Egypt

Popularly known as the land of pharaohs and pyramids - Egypt is one of the most popular tourist destinations in northeastern Africa. From attractions ranging from the red sea to the Sinai Desert and Cairo to Abu Simbel, Egypt is a magical destination which you must take a visit at least once in your lifetime!

Thailand

Thailand that was once known as the Kingdom of Thailand lies in Southeast Asia and it has been home to many indigenous cultures. The major influences in Thai culture are those of India and China as well as some of the other cultures from countries neighboring this beautiful country. Of special interests to tourists are the Island of Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, and of course the capital Bangkok.

Source : http://www.iho-ohi.org

Sunday, October 11, 2009

World famous beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka



Sri Lanka is surrounded by golden beaches and the beaches in Sri Lanka are the best in the world. Sri Lanka is the ideal holiday destination, and is a land of many appealing beaches, which are a major tourist attraction. Being a tropical island, it is endowed with an idyllic setting with swaying palms bending over the white sands lapped up by blue waters coral growths, pearl banks (North West) etc. So pull off your sandals and dip your toes into the clear, soft sands of the beach. As one travels along the western, eastern and southern coastlines one will come upon yet another identical and tempting tropical and panoramic view, which proves that this unique isle is the best place to relax and enjoy a perfect holiday.





With smooth velvety sands, ebb and flow of the tides, calm waters around the island there is everything that anyone to be entertained by. If you are keen on water sports, discover what an aquatic playground the beaches of Sri Lanka would provide. Snorkeling, windsurfing, angling and sailing are just a few activities if one wants to indulge in, Swimming diving, sunbathing and just relaxing are some of the favourite pastimes of the tourist. By the way, you would never miss beach seining still a favourite form of fishing in Sri Lanka and also stilt- fishing, a popular sight along the coast to the deep south.

Beruwala beach in Sri Lanka is ideal for swimming almost throughout the year
Here is a very good example of how a small sleepy fishing village with only a bay nearby is transformed into a grand holiday resort with numerous luxury hotels and other amenities inviting the tourist. This small town situated 56 kms south of Colombo possess a stretch of coastline dotted with palm trees, white sandy tracts and clean blue waters nearby. The bay remains ideal for swimming almost throughout the year and there is heavy tourism development centred around Beruwala

Galle

116 Kms South of Colombo, Galle is the chief city and one of prime importance in the south. It has an old-world charm pervading its air. This natural harbour was a famous landing place for foreign trades in the delays of yore. Today the place holds fame for its Dutch fort, lace making, ebony carving and gem polishing. Primarily built by the Portuguese and extended by the Dutch, this is now a WORLD HERITATGE SITE. Oldest building constructed by the Dutch here is occupied by the national Museum in Galle. A pleasurable activity one could occupied in while in Galle would be a stroll along the circuit of the walls of the fort and inside it. The latest addition to Galle is the SANATH JAYASOORIYA Cricket grounds.

Hikkaduwa beach in Sri Lanka is one of the beautiful destinations
Hikkaduwa is one of the famous tourist destinations in southern Sri Lanka. It is 98 kms south of Colombo and its beautiful beaches a lot of glamour to this town. It is the place where you can have a glimpse of the fascinating underwater world and see the creatures that inhabit the unfathomable depths of the sea. The famed coral gardens are located here. Just get hold of a glass bottomed boat or goggles and flippers and plunge into the ocean!.

Unawatuna beach in Sri Lanka, rank amongst the twelve best beaches in the world
Unawatuna Beach is located just south of Galle, the chief city in the south and 125km from Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. This 4km expanse of palm-fringed sand is said by some to rank amongst the twelve best beaches in the world. This beach is a paradise for all those who yearn to enjoy the silence of the sea and dive deep into the blue waters of the ocean. There is a reef protecting the beach, which makes it perfectly a safe haven for bathing. Other major attractions of this southern beach include shallow waters for swimming, and diving. Within its reach there is an accessible, reasonably well-preserved coral reef that serves as the base for snorkelling. For all those who fancy scuba diving, this tropical bay in the south will definitely catch your fancy since for the scuba divers; there are several wreck dives only 20-30 minutes away from the beach by boat. Thus it is the most favoured beach for all those looking for some exciting water sport activity like swimming, scuba diving or snorkelling.

Mount Lavinia

Just 12 km. south of Colombo, Mount Lavinia is the most popular beach because of its close proximity to the capital. It is situated beside a wind swept headland jutting into the waters of the Indian Ocean. Mt-Lavinia beach is noteworthy in historical value as well as in beauty. It is an ideal place to indulge in relaxation and enjoy the sea. The Governor's House built in 1805 by Sir Thomas Maitland now forms part of the famous Mount Lavinia Hotel. Mt-Lavinia Beach is quite busy on Sundays and public holidays with large crowds gathered to participate in many beach sports activities such as swimming, wind surfing, beach volleyball, beach rugby, etc. Music by Live bands & Entertainment by DJs keep the toes of the crowd tapping.

Negombo

Negombo is located 37km. North of Colombo and 6 km. from the Katunayake International Airport, Negombo is an ideal fishing town as well as a paradise for the seafood buffets. You can enjoy watching the old -world fishing crafts like outrigger canoes and the catamarans bringing a variety of marine fishes like seers, skipjacks, pomfrets and amber-jacks. In the lagoon lobsters and prawns are caught and served as fascinating delicacies in the nearby restaurants. There's much more in Negombo than just a sandy stretch of beach, where much history has been witnessed. During the time when Dutch were ruling the coastal areas of Sri Lanka, a fort, a canal and many a church was built and cinnamon cultivation took high priority. Remains of these provide a glimpse of the past and adorn the beach in Negombo along with fishing villages, which are sprinkled in the area.

Bentota beach in Sri Lanka is an ideal romantic beach holiday
If you are looking for an ideal romantic beach holiday Bentota located 62 kms south of Colombo is the ideal place to go. The place is a small town fast developing, teeming with growth of hotels, shopping arcades and cafeterias. There is also an open air theatre where folk and mask dancing is performance. This section of the southwestern coast gives a typical picture of a tropical beach dotted with palm trees; white sandy drenches and blue waters.

Ambalangoda beach in Sri Lanka has a beautiful stretch of sandy beach
Ambalangoda, on the southwestern coast about 85 Km from Colombo, has a beautiful stretch of sandy beach and a captivating rocky little islet off its coast. Ambalangoda is most famous for its mask carving a traditional cottage craft. You can find many types of traditional Sri Lankan masks beautifully painted with attractive colours in ambalangoda. These masks are used in sorcery and some traditional rituals.

Weligama

27 km. from Galle, Welingama is blessed with its picturesque shallow bay; broad sandy beach provides fantastic scenes for the eyes of a visitor. Weligama is also the home of the famous stilt fishermen, who standing on stilts closer to the beach wait patiently for their catch; look out for curd and treacle, which are in plenty here.




East Coast

The east coast has a lot to offer to the tourist. The uneven coastline is dotted with many bays and sheltered coves. In some beaches one can walk even a mile into the sea.

Trincomalee

Trincomalee is regarded as on of the most magnificent harbours in the world. Its exceptional beauty is commented by many a traveller for the island in the past. Horatio Nalson, Great Britain’s greatest Admiral and naval hero of the 18th Century described Trincomalee as the finest harbour in the world. The British, at one time wanted to use this as their chief naval base in the east. Trincomalee, 257 kms away from Colombo is also endowed with excellent beaches and perfect hang-outs for beach buffets and offers some of the best sea- bathing places in the country.

Nilaveli beach in Sri Lanka is ideally suited for sun bathing and diving
Nilaveli-situated at a distance of 271 km from Colombo-is a prime beach resort on the East coast. In the northern stretch of 'Trinco', known as Nilaweli, shallow beach goes up to half a mile into the sea. The hot wells and the Pigeon Islands are the important places of tourist interest in the vicinity. There is an old Portuguese/Dutch fort reminiscent of the Colonial era. The beach has ample water sports facilities including fishing and sea angling. Nilaveli is ideally suited for sun bathing and diving. A few metres from the coast are a small rocky island good for snorkelling. This, only 8 miles from Trincomalee once possessed the chief slattern in the South- East of Sri Lanka.

Batticaloa

It is the famous 'singing' fish and is at exit point of a picturesque lagoon made up of a series of connected lagoons filled with mangrove swamps that attracts tourists to this serene beach. Situated at a distance of 314 km from Colombo, Batticaloa is famous for its `Singing Fish' and picturesque lagoon. On full moon nights a faint but distinct musical sound rises from the lagoon waters. This is attributed to a noise emanated by a kind of fish found in the lagoon. A Dutch Fort near the lagoon is another tourist attraction and the whole area around bears signs of European occupation, by the Portuguese, Dutch and the British.

Kalkudah beach in Sri Lanka is a popular tourist centre with the fine bay Passekudah lying close by
32 km. from Batticaloa, Kalkudah is a popular tourist centre with the fine bay Passekudah lying close by. The calm reef-protected sea is an ideal place for having a sea bath. There is also a popular hotel along with other amenities required for the tourist. Kalkudah & Passekudah are two very fine beaches in the East Coast. Kalkudah Bay, a 2 km long wide stretch of beach-located 32 km north of Batticaloa-is well protected from the monsoons by an offshore reef. Passekudah Bay is another wide beach 4 km long, just south of Kalkudah. The two beaches form an ideal stretch for bathing, windsurfing and water-skiing.

Arugam Bay beach in Sri Lanka is one of five best places in the world for wind surfing

Located 314 Km to the East of Colombo, Arugam Bay is a fishing village. The town has a sweeping beach and a beautiful bay that is excellent for wind surfing, which is regarded as one of five best places in the world for wind surfing. The bay offers numerous possibilities for water sports and underwater photography. The many shipwrecks off the coast offer a tempting challenge to the divers.

Source :http://www.scenicsrilanka.com

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Top 5 Most Expensive Hotel Suites

The most important element of a vacation, aside from the destination, is the hotel where you spend your downtime. If you’re going to take a true luxury vacation, of course, it won’t do to have anything less than one of the most expensive hotel suites in the world.

Hotel Cala di Volpe in Costa Smeralda, Italy – Presidential Suite


Top 5 Most Expensive Hotel Suites - Presidential Suite at Hotel Cala di Volpe

1.Costa Smeralda—the “Emerald Coast”—in northern Sardinia, is home to many draws for the obscenely wealthy, not the least of which is this fabulous suite. The duplex suite has three bedrooms and as many bathrooms, an outdoor saltwater pool and a private gazebo and solarium.




2.Grand Resort Lagonissi in Athens, Greece – The Royal Villa


Top 5 Most Expensive Hotel Suites - The Royal Villa at Grand Resort Lagonissi

Another three-bedroom suite, the Royal Villa has two pools—an indoor pool and a heated outdoor pool. The nearby marina and beach cement the fact that this suite is a swimmer’s paradise. Visitors will also have access to a private chef to accompany the fully equipped kitchen, a butler and even a pianist.





3.Hotel President Wilson in Geneva, Switzerland – Royal Penthouse suite




Top 5 Most Expensive Hotel Suites - The Royal Penthouse suite at Hotel President Wilson

If you’d prefer a secure suite to an extravagant one, look no further than Switzerland. The Royal Penthouse suite boasts a private elevator, bulletproof windows, armored doors, surveillance cameras and even bedside panic buttons. Of course, it’s not all about security; the suite also features a number of period pieces and stunning views of Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva.

4.Four Seasons Hotel in New York, USA – Ty Warner Penthouse suite

Most expensive hotel suite

With a carpet that’s so expensive that anyone who walks across it must wear special booties provided by the hotel, ample views of the nation’s largest city, a 700 square foot library and even a waterfall in its Zen room, this suite—which covers the hotel’s entire 52nd floor—is truly a luxury location. It’s named after the founder of Ty Inc., manufacturer of the popular Beanie Babies stuffed toys.




5.The Hotel Martinez in Cannes, France – Penthouse Suite


Top 5 Most Expensive Hotel Suites - The Penthouse Suite at Hotel Martinez

The world’s most expensive hotel suite is located on the seventh floor of the Hotel Martinez, already a ritzy location with its Michelin-starred restaurant and prime location on the Croisette in Cannes. The suite itself consists of four bedrooms and an impressive terrace—complete with Jacuzzi—which commands an equally impressive view of the Mediterranean Sea.




Source :http://most-expensive.net