Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Vibrant Beijing … The Capital Of China And A Treasure Room Of Sights
Touring this city requires a lot of walking - a good physical condition helps if you are here - but mentally you never get tired of this dynamic metropolis.
With a 3,000-year history, sights, myths and tales from the past are found around every corner. It's why tourists love Beijing and believe me, Beijing loves its tourists too. The city has great restaurants featuring the world cuisine and some of the hotels match the best in the world. For the best deals on hotels in Beijing, check out http://www.hotelscombined.com/City/Beijing.htm?a_aid=4d780272
Let's take a closer look at some of the main sights and attractions.
Forbidden City
The former palace of Ming and Qing Dynasties, and now one of the most incredible museums in the world. It's so huge (800 buildings! 8,886 rooms! 720,000 square metres!) you need at least half a day to get a good impression of its beauty. The palace was forbidden ground for ordinary people until the fall of the empire in 1912.
Temple Of Heaven
Many regard this as the most beautiful temple in China. Located in the south eastern part of the city and surrounded by parkland, it's really a complex of buildings of which the main, beautifully decorated temple was built in the 15th Century. Not a single nail was used to build it and it still stands firm like a rock. Tiananmen Square Just outside the Forbidden City, and the world's biggest square: 880 metres long, 500 metres wide. This square simply breathes authority. Built in 1417, it has been the site of many historical and political events. It's entirely flat, except for two buildings: the mausoleum of Mao Zedong and the Monument to the People's Heroes.
Summer Palace
Just outside the city this park of 716 acres used to be the imperial garden retreat during hot summers. It was burned down in 1860 during the Anglo-French invasion but rebuilt in 1888, and once more in 1902 after another attack. The main building is the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity. The 60 meters high Longevity hill and the Kunming Lake dominate the park.
Further away, but still easily reached from the capital is the Great Wall of China.
If you're a fan of history and interested in Chinese culture, this city has so much to offer.
But make no mistake. Despite its historical sights and signs of communist glory, young people in Beijing live the life of today. And today in China means a country with a booming economy. Mobile phones and (copy) designer clothes are seen in every street, and people show a great interest in everything that comes from the western world.
It has given this crowded city a feel that makes tourists from all over the world feel welcome, even though much is so different from their life at home.
The broad boulevards of Beijing are now full of cars - yes, there are still zillions of bikes, but they're losing ground - and shops, business and entertainment flourish like never before. Beijing is a world on its own, and visiting this city is - like the rest of China - an experience you'll never forget.
With a 3,000-year history, sights, myths and tales from the past are found around every corner. It's why tourists love Beijing and believe me, Beijing loves its tourists too. The city has great restaurants featuring the world cuisine and some of the hotels match the best in the world. For the best deals on hotels in Beijing, check out http://www.hotelscombined.com/City/Beijing.htm?a_aid=4d780272
Let's take a closer look at some of the main sights and attractions.
Forbidden City
The former palace of Ming and Qing Dynasties, and now one of the most incredible museums in the world. It's so huge (800 buildings! 8,886 rooms! 720,000 square metres!) you need at least half a day to get a good impression of its beauty. The palace was forbidden ground for ordinary people until the fall of the empire in 1912.
Temple Of Heaven
Many regard this as the most beautiful temple in China. Located in the south eastern part of the city and surrounded by parkland, it's really a complex of buildings of which the main, beautifully decorated temple was built in the 15th Century. Not a single nail was used to build it and it still stands firm like a rock. Tiananmen Square Just outside the Forbidden City, and the world's biggest square: 880 metres long, 500 metres wide. This square simply breathes authority. Built in 1417, it has been the site of many historical and political events. It's entirely flat, except for two buildings: the mausoleum of Mao Zedong and the Monument to the People's Heroes.
Summer Palace
Just outside the city this park of 716 acres used to be the imperial garden retreat during hot summers. It was burned down in 1860 during the Anglo-French invasion but rebuilt in 1888, and once more in 1902 after another attack. The main building is the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity. The 60 meters high Longevity hill and the Kunming Lake dominate the park.
Further away, but still easily reached from the capital is the Great Wall of China.
If you're a fan of history and interested in Chinese culture, this city has so much to offer.
But make no mistake. Despite its historical sights and signs of communist glory, young people in Beijing live the life of today. And today in China means a country with a booming economy. Mobile phones and (copy) designer clothes are seen in every street, and people show a great interest in everything that comes from the western world.
It has given this crowded city a feel that makes tourists from all over the world feel welcome, even though much is so different from their life at home.
The broad boulevards of Beijing are now full of cars - yes, there are still zillions of bikes, but they're losing ground - and shops, business and entertainment flourish like never before. Beijing is a world on its own, and visiting this city is - like the rest of China - an experience you'll never forget.
Forbidden City of Beijing - A Magical And Overwhelming Place
The Forbidden City in Beijing is no longer forbidden territory anymore. And we should be grateful for that. Why? If you have had the honor to visit this extraordinary place, you will understand.
This stunning complex of imperial buildings, right in the heart of the Chinese capital, is one of the most magical sights in the world. It's so overwhelming that once you've been there, you'll keep talking about it whenever you have the opportunity.
Let's look at some facts.
The Forbidden City is the former palace of Ming and Qing Dynasties. It was planned and built from 1407 to 1420, and for its design and layout principles of Feng Shui were used. An estimated 200,000 workers helped to construct it.
The numbers explain why so many people were needed: there are 800 buildings with a total of 8,886 rooms. The word ‘city' is not misused as it measures 961 meters from north to south and 753 meters from east to west.
A 52-meter wide moat (6 meters deep) and an 8-meter high wall around the complex kept intruders (and ordinary people!) away until the fall of the Empire in 1912.
Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the buildings are used as a museum.
Again, the numbers are impressive. The Palace Museum holds no less than 340,000 pieces of ceramics and porcelain as well as 50,000 items of paintings. I regret to say that once you're there, you won't have time to see everything, but even a quick review can make you speechless.
The sheer size of the complex is impressive, but a problem at the same time. How can you make the most out of your visit?
If you go there on a guided tour, the guide will likely follow the middle path to save time. In two hours time you'll see the most important parts of the city, but since there's so much to pay attention to, you will hardly have time to stop.
If you go there alone, use a full day and come early. Don't plan to visit any other sights on that day, just the Forbidden City. If you take your time and enjoy what you see, you can spend half a day and still only see half of it.
Another good idea is renting the audio guide at the entrance.
Don't be intimidated by the crowd at the entrance. Yes, it's very touristy and it can take a while before you are in, but once people have got their ticket the crowd splits up in several groups.
Take a rest in the imperial gardens. Jingshan Park, with an artifical hill, is the most famous. You'll feel an emperor for a second when you sit there!
Finally, if you want to get into the mood, you could watch The Last Emperor, the first Hollywood movie for which the government of China allowed to film inside the complex.
This stunning complex of imperial buildings, right in the heart of the Chinese capital, is one of the most magical sights in the world. It's so overwhelming that once you've been there, you'll keep talking about it whenever you have the opportunity.
Let's look at some facts.
The Forbidden City is the former palace of Ming and Qing Dynasties. It was planned and built from 1407 to 1420, and for its design and layout principles of Feng Shui were used. An estimated 200,000 workers helped to construct it.
The numbers explain why so many people were needed: there are 800 buildings with a total of 8,886 rooms. The word ‘city' is not misused as it measures 961 meters from north to south and 753 meters from east to west.
A 52-meter wide moat (6 meters deep) and an 8-meter high wall around the complex kept intruders (and ordinary people!) away until the fall of the Empire in 1912.
Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the buildings are used as a museum.
Again, the numbers are impressive. The Palace Museum holds no less than 340,000 pieces of ceramics and porcelain as well as 50,000 items of paintings. I regret to say that once you're there, you won't have time to see everything, but even a quick review can make you speechless.
The sheer size of the complex is impressive, but a problem at the same time. How can you make the most out of your visit?
If you go there on a guided tour, the guide will likely follow the middle path to save time. In two hours time you'll see the most important parts of the city, but since there's so much to pay attention to, you will hardly have time to stop.
If you go there alone, use a full day and come early. Don't plan to visit any other sights on that day, just the Forbidden City. If you take your time and enjoy what you see, you can spend half a day and still only see half of it.
Another good idea is renting the audio guide at the entrance.
Don't be intimidated by the crowd at the entrance. Yes, it's very touristy and it can take a while before you are in, but once people have got their ticket the crowd splits up in several groups.
Take a rest in the imperial gardens. Jingshan Park, with an artifical hill, is the most famous. You'll feel an emperor for a second when you sit there!
Finally, if you want to get into the mood, you could watch The Last Emperor, the first Hollywood movie for which the government of China allowed to film inside the complex.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Grand Bahamas Island is a traveler's paradise
Are you willing to keep yourself away from the daily hectic schedules? It really becomes difficult sometimes that people may get to think about the choice of location for a vacation. Obviously, you would love to go to such a place that not only unwinds you from the problems in life, but also relaxes your body and mind. Grand Bahamas Island is the perfect choice for all those tourists, who want to spend some time aloof from the business world and their daily routine. Moreover, rest is really necessary to keep up and maintain the health of an individual. Grand Bahamas Island has lot to offer for wooing the senses of travelers.
It’s the natural beauty that is being left loose in the Grand Bahamas Island. The beaches, the mesmerizing views, water sports, cruises and many more is available for the tourists to have a wonderful time here. There is no doubt in it that Grand Bahamas Island has one of the most awesome looking beaches of the world. Just imagine you lying on the beach and having a sun bath or enjoying your favorite water sport. A mere mention of these ideas starts cooling the mind and refreshing wave vibes in your body. The Grand Bahamas Island has so much to offer that your vacations at this place can the most memorable experience.
Grand Bahamas Island is a home of some of the attractive looking destinations that offer every type of comfort and relaxation activities to the tourists. Nassau, Paradise Island, Grand Bahama, Abaco, Bimini and Eleuthera, Andros, Long Island, Cat Island, Inagua and San Salvador are few of the breathtaking places and that one must visit. Well, Grand Bahamas Island has about 700 small islands in it, but only around 30 are inhabited. It’s the best place to check out and experience the real fun. In fact, well planned Grand Bahamas Island vacations can double your joy of holidaying.
Are you really crazy about water sports? Do you love going for fishing and enjoying the view? Then Grand Bahamas Island is the perfect choice for you as there is everything that you could wish for. As far as commuting is concerned, you can take an hour long flight from Florida and then can move on to the selected destination on small ships. Grand Bahamas Island is the traveler’s paradise and has everything for the visitors. After all, it’s the natural beauty that has the magnetic power of attracting tourists and Grand Bahamas Island has this in abundance.
The main thing while coming to Grand Bahamas Island is that you need to have a proper holiday package. You are required to sit with your travel agent and discuss about your requirements. The travel agent would have every type of range for you to suit your budget. No matter what is the range, you can enjoy the Grand Bahamas Island. Who do not wish to give themselves some special time to indulge? Moreover, everybody in this world has the right to have some luxurious time for him or herself.
It’s the natural beauty that is being left loose in the Grand Bahamas Island. The beaches, the mesmerizing views, water sports, cruises and many more is available for the tourists to have a wonderful time here. There is no doubt in it that Grand Bahamas Island has one of the most awesome looking beaches of the world. Just imagine you lying on the beach and having a sun bath or enjoying your favorite water sport. A mere mention of these ideas starts cooling the mind and refreshing wave vibes in your body. The Grand Bahamas Island has so much to offer that your vacations at this place can the most memorable experience.
Grand Bahamas Island is a home of some of the attractive looking destinations that offer every type of comfort and relaxation activities to the tourists. Nassau, Paradise Island, Grand Bahama, Abaco, Bimini and Eleuthera, Andros, Long Island, Cat Island, Inagua and San Salvador are few of the breathtaking places and that one must visit. Well, Grand Bahamas Island has about 700 small islands in it, but only around 30 are inhabited. It’s the best place to check out and experience the real fun. In fact, well planned Grand Bahamas Island vacations can double your joy of holidaying.
Are you really crazy about water sports? Do you love going for fishing and enjoying the view? Then Grand Bahamas Island is the perfect choice for you as there is everything that you could wish for. As far as commuting is concerned, you can take an hour long flight from Florida and then can move on to the selected destination on small ships. Grand Bahamas Island is the traveler’s paradise and has everything for the visitors. After all, it’s the natural beauty that has the magnetic power of attracting tourists and Grand Bahamas Island has this in abundance.
The main thing while coming to Grand Bahamas Island is that you need to have a proper holiday package. You are required to sit with your travel agent and discuss about your requirements. The travel agent would have every type of range for you to suit your budget. No matter what is the range, you can enjoy the Grand Bahamas Island. Who do not wish to give themselves some special time to indulge? Moreover, everybody in this world has the right to have some luxurious time for him or herself.
The Bahamas
The Bahamas, officially called the commonwealth of the Bahamas, is an independent, sovereign, English-speaking country consisting of two thousand cays ( coral reefs) and seven hundred islands that form an archipelago. (a group of many islands) It is located in the Atlantic Ocean southeast of the United States; north of Cuba, Hispaniola, Dominican Republic and Haiti, and the Carribean Sea, and north west of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
East Of Florida
The closest island to the United States is Bimini, lying approximately 100 miles east of Miami Florida. Bimimi is known as the gateway to the Bahamas. The Island of Abaco is to the east of Grand Bahama. The south easternmost island is Great Inagua. Other notable islands include the Bahamas' largest island, Andros Island, M Eleuthera, Cat Island, Long Island, San Salvador, Acklins, Crooked Island, Exuma and Mayaguana. Nassau, the capital city of the Bahamas, lies on the island of New Providence.
Climate
The climate of the Bahamas is subtropical to tropical, and is moderately affected by the waters of the Gulf Stream, particularly in the winter. Conversely, this may prove dangerous in the summer and autumn, when hurricanes pass near or though the islands. While there has never been a freeze reported in the Bahamas, the temperature can fall nearer to the freezing point during Arctic outbreaks that affect nearby Florida
Bahama's Government
The Bahamas is a sovereign nation. Political and legal traditions closely follow those of the United Kingdom. The Bahamas is a member of the commonwealth of Nations. Constitutional safeguards include freedom of speech, press, worship, movement, and association. Although the Bahamas is not geographically located in the Caribbean, it is a member of he Caribbean Community.
Grass Root Culture
In the less developed outer islands, handicrafts include basketry made from palm fonds. This material, commonly called “straw”, is plaited into hats and bags that are popular tourist items. Regattas are important social events in many family island settlements. They usually feature one„ or more days of sailing by fashioned work boats, as well as an onshore festival. Some settlements have festivals associated with the traditional crop or food of that area, such as the “pineapple Fest” in Gregory Town, Eleuthera or the “Crab Fest” on Andros. Other significant traditions include story telling. Sailing and Track and field athletics are popular sports in the country. Football and rugby also have strong followings while American sports such as basketball, softball, baseball and American football are gaining popularity.
Sandals Resort At Nassau
The Sandals Resort being positioned on the beach front will present you with endless turquoise water beguiling your senses and inviting you to explore vibrant coral reefs beneath the surface in this quintessential island paradise. With its famed gaming establishments and ultra-luxurious shopping venues, as well as downtown Nassau's pastel pinks and blues and its bustling straw market, the Bahamas perfectly mingles the sultry island rhythm with a cosmopolitan sophistication to create the best of both worlds.
Best Of Old and News Worlds Meet In Nassau
The 330-year old city of Nassau displays many charming signs of its British Colonial heritage, from crisply clad, white-gloved policemen to the pomp and ceremony of the changing of the guard at Government House. Yet, underneath the gentility of the Old World ambiance throbs a vibrant Caribbean pulse that colors and enlivens every aspect of this booming place. From quaint colonial architecture, bathed in pastel pinks and greens, to the lilting sounds of Bahamians conversing in the streets and from the proud traditions of the past to the incredibly vivid Junkanoo rhythm of modern times, Nassau opens wide a window to its colorful past, while also inviting everyone to enjoy the very best of Bahamian living.
Shopping In Style
Sophistication reigns supreme in the elegant stores-many of which you can also find on the streets of London, New York or Paris-that line Nassau's main thoroughfares. Copious duty free shopping only makes your experience more appealing. If you prefer something a little bit more in keeping with the Caribbean vibe, you're also very much in luck, since Nassau is home to the largest straw market in the entire region. Simply every item under the sun that can be fashioned from straw is available here and don't forget, it's always a good idea to bargain! Want a truly authentic Bahamian shopping experience? Then head on down to the market at Potter's Cay and join in with the throngs of natives as they select fresh produce, conch and fish. Whatever your purchasing pleasure, Nassau is sure to satisfy.
After A Day On The Beach Why Not a Walk In the Cool Of the Evening?
Once you’ve soaked in the sunshine, claimed your own idyllic stretch of shoreline and sipped, dined and relaxed the day away, maybe “ you’ll be in the mood for a walk with that one you love. Perhaps along the breach area enjoying the tranquility of the beach setting as the evening begins to fall. Or perhaps you'll choose an evening stroll through town stopping for a tropical fruit drink at a side walk care. If you've chosen to bring your children then it may prove to be a walk in the evening, with the Atlantic breeze bringing a taste of refreshing coolness as your children excitedly take in the wonder of Nassau's mixture of old and new with a touch of the old colonialism which is a site and experience available few other spots on the globe.
God bless you as you travel and enjoy His creation, and rub shoulders with those that merit His highest desire: the people of the world.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Live Like a Sultan in Dubai
'Burj Al Arab', 'Bastakia Quarter', 'Heritage and Diving Village', 'Souk Area', 'Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House'… sounds familiar! Right? Well, these are just a few names, which add to the magnificence and splendor of the exotic land of Dubai. All the major attractions of this city would provide you with a fascinating insight into the city's heritage and culture, and would surely make your feel like the ancient Sultans who were known all across the globe for their splendid aura and opulence.
Since ages gone, people have known this land to be nothing but a mere 'stretch of sand dunes', but the real credit goes to the inhabitants of the land who have converted this land into one of the most popular tourist destinations of the world. So if you have been cherishing the desire to live like a Sultan in Dubai then wait no more and immediately start planning for your next vacation to Dubai.
On your first visit only, you are sure to indulge yourself in the rich and glorious past of the city when you would visit the picturesque heritage sites or the living museums where visitors can look back in time and explore the past of Dubai.
The hotels of Dubai truly make your experience the divinity that this land has to offer. Set in the heart of the Arabian land, Dubai truly brings you lavishness mingled with pleasure.
Al Qasr: - Built and designed in the style of a monarch's summer residence, this place exudes opulence and grandeur out of every corner. It is not only beautifully furnished but also has every desire of yours catered for. With a sea view and private beach at your disposal, you are sure to experience the lavishness and affluence that the monarchs used to enjoy during their rule.
Ramada Continental: - This is one of the many grand hotels in Dubai, which treats you like a prince during your stay there with its excellent palatial ambience. For many years this stately structure has been a favorite of the sportsperson as the famous Creek Golf Club is located at a short proximity from here.
Hilton Jumeirah: - Set amongst the exquisitely beautiful gardens on the pristine Jumeirah beach, this hotel is sure to make your dream of living like a sultan in Dubai a reality.
Al Khaleej Palace Hotel: - Brilliantly designed and tastefully decorated, the Al Khaleej Palace Hotel seems to be nothing but a stately empire of the prehistoric sultans. The ideal location, perfect room settings and the luxurious range of amenities truly make this place a traveler’s favorite.
The wealth of cultural and entertainment based activities in and around Dubai would surely let you submerge yourself in the pool of immense pleasure, and within a short span of your stay here, you are sure to feel the aura of the Mughal monarchs getting a hold of you. Do not be too surprised if after returning to your native land, all you can manage to dream of is huge chandeliers gracing your quaint little room or your bathtub as a pool filled in with milk and rose petals. After all, you dreamt to live like a sultan in Dubai.
Since ages gone, people have known this land to be nothing but a mere 'stretch of sand dunes', but the real credit goes to the inhabitants of the land who have converted this land into one of the most popular tourist destinations of the world. So if you have been cherishing the desire to live like a Sultan in Dubai then wait no more and immediately start planning for your next vacation to Dubai.
On your first visit only, you are sure to indulge yourself in the rich and glorious past of the city when you would visit the picturesque heritage sites or the living museums where visitors can look back in time and explore the past of Dubai.
The hotels of Dubai truly make your experience the divinity that this land has to offer. Set in the heart of the Arabian land, Dubai truly brings you lavishness mingled with pleasure.
Al Qasr: - Built and designed in the style of a monarch's summer residence, this place exudes opulence and grandeur out of every corner. It is not only beautifully furnished but also has every desire of yours catered for. With a sea view and private beach at your disposal, you are sure to experience the lavishness and affluence that the monarchs used to enjoy during their rule.
Ramada Continental: - This is one of the many grand hotels in Dubai, which treats you like a prince during your stay there with its excellent palatial ambience. For many years this stately structure has been a favorite of the sportsperson as the famous Creek Golf Club is located at a short proximity from here.
Hilton Jumeirah: - Set amongst the exquisitely beautiful gardens on the pristine Jumeirah beach, this hotel is sure to make your dream of living like a sultan in Dubai a reality.
Al Khaleej Palace Hotel: - Brilliantly designed and tastefully decorated, the Al Khaleej Palace Hotel seems to be nothing but a stately empire of the prehistoric sultans. The ideal location, perfect room settings and the luxurious range of amenities truly make this place a traveler’s favorite.
The wealth of cultural and entertainment based activities in and around Dubai would surely let you submerge yourself in the pool of immense pleasure, and within a short span of your stay here, you are sure to feel the aura of the Mughal monarchs getting a hold of you. Do not be too surprised if after returning to your native land, all you can manage to dream of is huge chandeliers gracing your quaint little room or your bathtub as a pool filled in with milk and rose petals. After all, you dreamt to live like a sultan in Dubai.
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