Vietnam Tour: The Hidden Charms

One of the most captivating countries in the region of Southeast Asia, Vietnam has gradually placed itself up on the world's tourism map as a fascinating place to visit, with a unique wealth of its own to offer visitors from other countries in the form of colorful cuisine, friendly people, picturesque landscape, and rich culture. Visitors from around the world, on the other hand, have now took notice of the breathtaking beauty that only Vietnam's natural landscapes can offer. In fact, the first five months of 2014 alone has seen an arrival of almost 11 million tourists bound for the Mekong Delta alone, with nearly 1 million accounting for international visitors. Indeed, Vietnam tour has caught up and is gradually showing the world what this country's hidden charms are.

As a backgrounder for future visitors, and to have a general idea about what to expect once inside the country, the following information about Vietnam will be useful:

Climate
Vietnam lies entirely within the tropics, but the fascinating fact is that the country is characterized by a climate that varies from area to area, with a general annual average temperature ranging from 22 degrees to 27 degrees Celsius. Cold, humid winters and warm, wet summers generally define the climatic condition of the north while the south is characterized by a monsoon season within the months of May to November, and is warm throughout the year.

Language and Ethnic Groups
Vietnamese is of course the country's official language, but each of the country's ethnic minority group boasts of its own dialect used in daily life. The country's rather small area of 330,000 square kilometers is home to 54 different ethnic groups. The Kinh people, at 86% accounts for the majority of the country's population. The remaining 14% accounts for all the other ethnic groups. The Kinh people are mostly based on the plains, particularly in the Red river Delta and the Mekong Delta, while the other ethnic groups are based on the mountainous regions. While each group has its own cultural traditions that differ from each other, they are all united by a common goal and desire for peace, and generally speaking, these ethnic groups that comprise the vietnamese people as a whole are warm, gentle, and visitor friendly.

Religions and Festivals
The land of Vietnam plays host to a myriad of spirituality and religious beliefs that range from Confucianism to Buddhism, as much as Taoism and Animism. Christianity also co-exist with this different religions, also playing an important role in the spiritual life of many Vietnamese.

Vietnam's most important festival is the Tet Nguyen Dan, or the "Feast of the First Morning". Often celebrated either in late January or early February and lasting two weeks long, the festivities welcome the coming of the Lunar New Year, and is also associated with ancestor worship. It is also a much awaited time for children, as they receive gifts from parents, grandparents, and relatives. Adults, on the other hand, gather together and wish each other prosperity and good luck. It is also during the Tet holiday when families go for reunions, and visits to temples and pagodas are also done during this festival. Other festivals are also celebrated, particularly during spring and autumn.

Food
Vietnamese cuisine is an array of colorful food that is really worth a visitor's time and effort. The local fare include beef pho, chicken pho, cold shellfish noodle, shrimp cakes, and spring rolls. The local beer, also known as draught beer, is also worth trying.

Hot Spots
Vietnam is naturally wealthy in terms of destinations that would truly amaze the senses with natural beauty. The Mekong Delta, for instance, draws hordes of visitors from around the world. Other places of interest include Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Cat Ba Island, Ho Chi Minh, and Hanoi. Beach resorts along the coastlines, as well as traditional eco-tours in areas such as mountainous areas are also available. Other points of interests are historical cities, towns, and communities.

With these and many other things to discover, a Vietnam tour package is sure to reward you with a breathtaking travel experience that only Vietnam can ever offer.

Joe Cruze III works for Lokopoko Travel, a provider of top notch Vietnam tour package and other exciting tour packages around Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.

Article Source: Joe_Cruze_III

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The Mystical Village of Bellapais

Standing in a protected position and appearing almost as if glued to the side of the Kyrenia mountain range, the façade of Bellapais Abbey is the distant view that first fascinates visitors and attracts them to explore this fascinating and ancient Cypriot village. Now lying in the Turkish part of the island, Northern Cyprus, Bellapais has an interesting history, but it is the atmosphere of the place that keeps bringing people back - and not just the atmosphere in the abbey, but the entire village.

Surprisingly little is known of its early history, but it is likely that the site of the abbey was first occupied and that the village grew around this. It has been suggested that the first construction might have dated back to the seventh or eighth century, however, the first documented occupation and building on the site was by religious leaders who had fled from Jerusalem around the end of the twelfth century. The site offered many benefits to them. If was difficult to reach and almost impossible to do so unseen, so was relatively easy to protect. Further, its mountainside location guaranteed a reasonable supply of water and some respite from the hottest weather. Originally called Abbaye de la Belle Paix (the abbey of peace), this gradually became shortened to the current form.

Just like Cyprus as a whole, Bellapais went through many changes under many rulers over the centuries. Although not infrequently plundered - often just for building materials - the Abbey today is still in a remarkable state of preservation and still forms the heart of the village. In fact, it is now used as a setting for art exhibitions and concerts, with the annual Bellapais Music Festival attracting performers from around the world. However, anyone who visits the abbey should spend a little time also wandering through the tiny surrounding streets. Meandering in seemingly every direction, each twist and turn brings new views of ancient buildings and occasional glimpses of the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean. Most of the property here remains residential, though in the small square and the area around the abbey, there are a number of restaurants and small shops.

Apart from the abbey, Bellapais is probably best known for being the home for a while of the author Lawrence Durrell, and the home seemingly for ever of what is known as 'the Tree of Idleness'. Durrell bought a home in one of the steep back streets, and it remains there to this day. He wrote affectionately and amusingly of his time here in the novel Bitter Lemons of Cyprus, and the Tree of Idleness is mentioned many times. The tree itself has the magical property that anyone who sits and drinks under its boughs will be "forever consumed with idleness". The tree also has the magical property that nobody is actually certain of its location and as there are two trees that each claim to be the genuine article, at least two restaurants have areas where you should presumably sit only if you are planning on retiring!

Today, despite being somewhat 'touristy', Bellapais retains a quite remarkable atmosphere. The abbey seems to exude a feeling of peace and tranquillity that is almost physical and that seems to spread out into its surroundings. Even in the restaurants and shops, there is the sense that life is something to be savoured and not rushed and a meal here in the evening can be quite spectacular, as the abbey is floodlit at night and forms a stunning backdrop to a leisurely dining experience.

There are many reasons to choose a holiday in Northern Cyprus, but a visit to Bellapais should definitely not be missed if you do.

For the very best of North Cyprus, do what I do and book through Cyprus Paradise!

Article Source: Richard_Bowles

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A Taste Of Culture: The Local Restaurants Of Honduras

In the larger Honduran cities such as Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula or La Ceiba American fast food restaurants abound, but don't expect to find everything you're accustomed to in Phoenix or Chicago. Pizza in the American chains tastes much the same but you will also find sides of tortilla soup, yuca and the ubiquitous Ensalada de Repollo, shredded cabbage with vinegar. Hamburgers are reasonably good but have a decidedly Latin flavor seasoned for local tastes.

For the true experience of Honduran gastronomical culture it pays to seek out the smaller comidores, preferably outside the city. While travelling from Santa Barbara to Intibucá and being particularly thirsty, we stopped at a little house beside the Rio Zacapa displaying a sign claiming to have the coldest beer in Honduras. Honduran beer is particularly good, and "the coldest" is even better! The lady proprietor made us comfortable in chairs around a table on the front porch, and we were not disappointed with the temperature of the beer. A menu hand-written on a chalkboard above the door listed a half dozen items from which we chose chicken tacos. Honduran tacos are rolled in a flour tortilla filled with meat, fine Honduran cheese, chiles and seasonings, baked or fried and covered with a tomato salsa. They very much resemble what Americans think of as an "enchilada".

Many tiny restaurants have no menu. They serve whatever the Señora happened to cook that day. All have bottled water and soda to be opened at the table, and most have beer, as we experienced in another little pueblo in northern Francisco Morazán. The little eatery had cobblestone floors, a door and walls but one half was open to the sky to allow natural lighting. It was really quite attractive even with the occasional dog wandering in to politely wait for a bone, only to be shooed out by the waitress. On this occasion they had pork chops, fresh home made corn tortillas, refried red beans and cabbage salad. The food was exceptional and the price unbelievably reasonable.

Many roadside shops specialize in only one or two items. Maybe some incredibly strong but remarkably un-bitter coffee and rosquillas or quesadillas. Rosquillas look like thin doughnuts but are made from corn and Honduran cheese and are not sweet. Quesadillas usually look like doughnuts also, fatter than rosquillas and slightly sweet with cinnamon flavor. A real treat when in season are fritas de elote, green corn cut from the cob and ground by hand into a batter and cooked on a grill like pancakes. Most vendors sprinkle them with powdered sugar or add honey, but just the natural taste of the corn is wonderful!

Another of the many treats in a lot of specialized restaurants, large and small, are pupusas. Though actually of Salvadoran origin they are wildly popular among Hondurans. These are like a thick corn pancake filled with meat, cheese, beans, chicharrónes, chorizo, chiles and/or whatever may sound good to the cook. Anyone visiting without having tried pupusas and the local chorizo has not really experienced Honduras!

Many visitors to Honduras cling to the restaurants in the major hotels, malls or American fast food chains because of a largely unfounded fear of local food and drink. Most restaurants in the larger cities are quite safe, and in the tiny local eateries those who avoid drinks with ice, drink only bottled water, soda and beer are not at all in danger. With a little vigilance and forethought these tiny places can be a quite rewarding cultural experience.

Lew Marcrum is a photographer and writer located in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. Primary genres include stock and travel concentrating on Latino and Central American culture, scenery, food and little-known potential tourist destinations.

Please visit us at: http://www.fotoscatrachas.com

Article Source: Lew_Marcrum

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3 Must Do Things On A Jakarta Holiday

Are you planning for a holiday to the island city of Indonesia? There are certain important facts that you should know before packing your bag and heading to the destination. Indonesia is a beautiful archipelago that comprises of approx. 17,508 islands. Jakarta is the capital city situated on the island of Java. Being the largest city in Indonesia, it is frequented by travelers all round the year to witness the Java Island, which is the most populous island in the world.

A travel package to Jakarta city means a retreat to the expansive city that carries a flavor of modern and traditional culture in apt proportions. While on a holiday package to Jakarta, you can do innumerable things. We have put together the top 3 must do things so that you are set for an exciting holiday to 'The Big Durian' called Jakarta.

List of things to do in Jakarta

1. Visit the Istiqlal Mosque
The Istiqlal Mosque is the fourth biggest one in the world and definitely a must visit location if you are travelling to Jakarta. Build in the 1960s, this mosque is located right in the central Jakarta and can hold 250,000 worshippers at a time. When visiting this sacred place, ensure to follow the right dress code.

2. Enjoy the colorful nightlife
Jakarta buzzes with a colorful nightlife as the sunsets. You can head to the numerous clubs and bars located here. Ecobar and Kemang are two places where you can catch the pulse of nightlife in Jakarta within a budget. If you want to enjoy good food and party hard, then Jalan Jaksa is the ideal place for a vibrant night escapade.

3. Collect antiques from Jalan Surabaya
Your Tour Package to Jakarta is incomplete without a visit to this wonderful, open-air antique market, Jalan Surabaya. Quite accessible from any part of Jakarta, you can explore this place abuzz with stalls that sell souvenirs, crafts and other exotic antiques. Make sure you bargain before making any purchase and ensure that you buy only the old antique and not some replica.

Conclusion
Indonesia is a beautiful country and home to 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites as of 2013. Tourism is one of the key attractions of Indonesia. While on a holiday to Jakarta, do not forget to explore the delicious Indonesian cuisine, its flora fauna, and its culture. Plan your Jakarta Tour Package such that you get the time to visit the famous locations in Jakarta.

Abhinav Kumar is a Prolific Mumbai-based freelance Content Writer Manager, who writes Travel related Blogs and Articles like Jakarta Tour Packages, Bangkok Tour Package.

Article Source: Abhinav_Gajanan_Kumar

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Celebrating Festivals in China's Most Popular Destination Shanghai

Shanghai is the largest, biggest and most prosperous city in China. It is renowned world over as the Oriental Paris. With a population of more than 200 million, it is the world's second largest city proper after Mumbai. In terms of modernity, Shanghai rivals Paris or New York, and boasts of a blended culture of the East and the West. Since time immemorial, Shanghai has a long history of being the gateway to China as well as the Yangtze River delta. Today, the city has become on e of the significant cultural centers and also the largest trade and economic center in China.

Over the years, Shanghai has flourished tremendously and emerged as one of the premier travel destinations in the world. A large number of tourists from across the world are getting instantly drawn to the city and visiting year after year. Shanghai is increasingly alluring the tourists in a big way with most of them choosing to return to the city time and again.

For history and culture buffs, Shanghai has become a favorite haunt these days. The city retains last vestige of China's unusual colonial past and increasingly drawing the tourists in large numbers. The architecture found along the Bund area greatly mesmerizes the visitors by portraying itself as a living museum of the colonial history of the 1800s. A visit to the Bund area is sure to take you down the memory lane and immerse in the thoughts of an era bygone.

This dynamic metropolis of China with its famous historical landmarks standing alongside modern and ever-expanding skylines is never going to let you feel bored throughout your stay in the city. Shanghai's oriental charm has continuously attracted renowned personalities from the overseas like Rabindra Nath Tagore, Albert Einstein and George Bernard Shaw. Book flights to Shanghai to explore and experience the city yourself. The city will just delight you with its umpteen festivals that are held round the year. Here are some of the important festivals being held during the months of September, October and November in 2013. Purchase your flight tickets to Shanghai well in advance that will help you save on your journey as well as help you reach Shanghai on time to attend these important festivals.

If you are traveling to Shanghai during the months of September and October, you will get opportunity to witness the Shanghai Osmanthus Festival, Shanghai International Music Fireworks Festival and Shanghai Tourism Festival. The Shanghai Osmanthus Festival will be held throughout the month of September. It will start from September 1 and last until September 30. This annual festival started in 1991. The festival offers a unique experience. You will get opportunity to taste different kinds of delicious food with osmanthus flowers in it. Visit the Guilin Park to enjoy the sweet fragrance of osmanthus flowers. The Longjing tea and perfume with osmanthus fragrance available in the park will also delight you.

Celebrate the Shanghai International Music Fireworks Festival when in the city during September and October. This year the Shanghai International Music Fireworks Festival will be held from September 30 through October 6. The festival started in the year 2000 and has since been regularly held on National Day every year in Century Park. This is one of the most significant international music fireworks events in China and also in Asia.

Shanghai is ready to delight you whenever you choose to visit the city. Don't miss out on these important festivals and have a memorable experience.

This article is posted by Jhonson Peterson behalf of FareBuzz.com that is leading Online Airline Tickets Booking Servies in USA & UK, offers cheap tickets to Shanghai booking online here.

Article Source: Jhonson_Peterson

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10 Random Facts About Iceland, Its History and Its Culture

Most people in English speaking countries know relatively little or nothing about Iceland. That's probably a good thing because most Icelandic people really do not want outsiders to know anything about their country. The 'why' of it will soon be obvious and therefore, it's important to share some of the amazing facts about this cold little country.

1. Iceland is entirely made out of ice. There is no soil or real land of any kind. It is part of the Great Canbera-Eyjafjörður North Sea Spoil. Therefore, nothing can actually grow there and most of their economy is almost entirely dependent upon selling snow cones to European sailors.


2. Because Iceland, as aforementioned is really an iceberg (a very large one), it is ever so slowly drifting toward the southeast of the U.S. and will, in 12,313.37 years, wind up off the coast of Miami, Florida, despite the northward flow of the Gulf Stream. Oceanographers are at a loss to explain how a really large chunk of ice like Iceland can drift against the current! But, it's real and it's happening.


3. Despite their being surrounded by water, Icelandic people are poor fishermen and more than 90% of their diet consists of the consumption of snow cones made out of nutritious, but tasty kelp which is part of the dissolved solids in some of their ice.


4. Iceland in its earliest human history was ignored, for the most part by Eric the Red who actually discovered the Canbera-Eyjafjörður North Sea Spoil and named Iceland... Iceland in passing on his way to discover what is now Detroit, Michigan in North America on or about 987 A.D. When he stepped off his extra long longboat he was reputed to have said, "Hvað, þessi staður er stórfurðulegur ís floe!" Which roughly translates to "Damn, this places is a freaking iceberg!"


5. It never rains in Iceland, but snows for roughly 325 days during a typical year. This has enabled the country to build world class ice skating rinks. Since most of their culture and clothing is based on frozen kelp-ice, Icelanders are very adept at ice hockey, figure skating, tobogganing and the necessary skill of ice weaving.


6. The prime minister in Iceland is called, "Á virkilega stór Ice strákur", which roughly translates to "The Big Ice Man". The Parliament is called "A heild búnt af minni ís fólki", which translates to "A whole bunch of smaller ice people".


7. Iceland was the first and only country to build a working airplane made entirely out of ice. Because of weather conditions, it could only fly in very cold climates and only during the winter and only at really high altitudes, as you would expect. The Icelandic people typically referred to it when it was operational as "Kaldur ís planið okkar". "Our cool [sic] ice plane".


8. In 1908, Iceland held the Winter Olympics, just outside of Reykjavík near the site of the Reykjavík Airport. Since Iceland was the host country, they were allowed to introduce their own sports to be played at the Olympic games. Their sports included ice hockey with ice skates made entirely out of ice. Which translated to "Fylgir íshokkí með ís skata gerði algjörlega út af ís". Also included was caribou hunting, Icelandic shot put with a shot put made out of ice and an Icelandic version of roller derby on ice skates, made out of ice. Needless to say, Iceland won every event and took home or kept (as it were), the gold. Because of their unconventional sports, the Olympic Committee, disqualified this Olympics, vowing never to hold another one in Iceland, unless they participated with more conventional sports. Further, they changed the Olympic rules to disallow the host country from making up its own sports.


9. Some of the world's greatest authors and song writers have been Icelandic. At least, this is what the Icelandic Tourist Bureau has stated in its tourism brochures. The difficulty in making this claim is that all of their books and songs are written in Icelandic and only Icelanders can read or understand them. According to them, the books and songs are really, really good.

10. Iceland is the only country in the world to publish a newspaper made entirely out of ice. Therefore, it is really hard to store copies of them in places like Ecuador, Brazil, Egypt, etc. On the bright side, Iceland is one of the most environmentally friendly places on earth. Since even their toilet paper is made out of ice, icelanders throw all of their old ice-paper products into the ocean and they just melt away leaving no negative impact on the environment.

Iceland is an incredible and extremely interesting country. The people are friendly, although somewhat cold as you find out immediately when you shake hands with any of them. They have a proud historic tradition and it's certainly a place you would love to visit, if you don't mind permafrost.

Nick is a humorist, writer, executive and serious writer of business as well as commentary. He was educated at St. John's University, Dartmouth College (MBA) and the US Air Force Institute of Technology. He has written two books: "In Search of the Silver Bullet" (How to be an entrepreneur and get funding) http://www.amazon.com/dp/1461135869 " The Low Road to Business Success: A How to Manual for those with Luck, Mediocre Talent & Intelligence": http://www.amazon.com/Business-Success-Mediocre-Intelligence

Article Source: expert=Nick_Schklair

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Top 10 Family Tourist Attractions In Dubai

Do you intend to take a family vacation over this holiday season? Enjoy a magical experience by choosing Dubai as your family vacation destination. With an abundance tourist attractions and family fun events to attend, Dubai, is a special place to spend your time off. To make it easy, I have assembled top 10 list for family fun events and general tourist attractions in Dubai.

Attraction #1: The Dubai Fountains. Out of several attractions in Dubai, the Dubai Fountains consistently ranked #1 among tourists and families as a favorite spot to visit during a holiday. The Dubai Fountain shoots water up in the air as high as 500 feet (as high as a 50-story building), choreographed to beautiful music. It's an unforgettable sight and experience.

Attraction #2: Dubai Dolphinarium. The Dolphinarium in Dubai is family fun place to visit. You can actually pick your own experience in the Dolphin Bay, from standing in shallow water with the entire family to scuba diving along the dolphins.

Attraction #3: Skydiving in Dubai. If you enjoy skydiving, you'll love the experience at Dubai.

Attraction #4: Dubai Desert Conservative Reserve. Love wildlife and conservation? Then you'll find the DDCR a special place to visit during your holiday. This reserve is a designated protected area for endangered Arabian Oryx.

Attraction #5: Dubai Metro. It's like the New York Subway Station, only better. The Dubai Metro is an advanced, advanced transportation station that you'll enjoy visiting during your Dubai visit.

Attraction #6: Wild Wadi Water Park. The Wild Wadi is situated between the world's most luxurious hotel, Burj Al Arab (another great stop in Dubai) and a 5-star, award-winning Jumeirah Beach hotel. It's also positioned directly on top of the Arabian Sea. The entire water park is themed around Arabian folklore and offers an unforgettably fun adventure for families and tourists alike.

Attraction #7: At The Top Burj Khalifa Experience. Enjoy the sights from the observation decks at the Burj Khalifa. You'll take in a breathtaking amount of scenery from what is nicknamed "the top of Dubai."

Attraction #8: iFly Dubai. Enjoy arcade games and entertainment centers? The technologically advanced iFly entertainment center in Dubai will leave your mind blown. It's a must stop if you've brought the kids along.

Attraction #9: Ski Dubai. There's really nothing you can't do in Dubai-and snow is probably the last thing on your mind when you're thinking of Dubai adventures. But Dubai actually features the world's third largest indoor ski slope, located inside the Dubai Mall of the Emirates. It's an experience that you'll never forget.

Attraction #10: The Lost Chambers Aquarium in Atlantis, the Palm. The mysterious ruins of Atlantis are re-captivated for exploration in this beautiful Dubai attraction. Great for the whole family.

Adewale Adelani

Passionate About Travel and Social Media Enthusiast

Since 2003, Hundreds of Happy Dubai Guests make their dream trip/holidays become a reality.

I write and talk a lot about Dubai as a travel destination of choice as well as social media as a tool in travel/tourism business. I love Reading, Giving, Sharing and I love my Family.

Visit my website http://www.travelwithdahla.com

Article Source: Adewale_Adelani

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Bangkok - The Different Types of Tours

Bangkok, Thailand, the city with many ups, downs and beautiful scenery, has so much to offer travelers and residents alike. With history that dates back centuries and the present-day revival, Bangkok can only be fully experienced in one way - a visit! Let's take a look at some of the features and tours Bangkok has to offer.

Need to Know Facts

The best time to visit Bangkok is between November and February. This is when the temperatures are comfortable, but the local beaches tend to be crowded. Monsoon season is not in effect, so flooding is not as big of an issue.

Residents speak the native language of Thai but many tourist areas offer English speakers that can help foreigners out. Bus drivers and taxi drivers tend to be less fluent in English, but there usually is someone nearby to help sort out any discrepancies.

Tours

If you are pressed for time, there are many tours that offer the ability to see the city and see it fast! You can catch public tours where you would be touring with groups of people, or there are private tours that you can set up to see the sites with only your party.

Bicycle tours are a great way to see the sites of the city without leaving land. Some of these tours see the neighborhoods of Bangkok while others offer views of the lush tropical forests surrounding the city. Bring comfortable shoes cause you'll be pedaling over many hills and bridges.

For those who would like to venture off the land, boat tours are available, and they come in many different forms. Taking a paddle canoe can get you into the tight spots that large dinner boats cannot travel. Areas that you may see from the water can consist of the popular "Venice of the East," an area that has long been under seen due to the increase in motor vehicle traveling around the city. Temples and trading houses are also popular sites along the river and can lead to hint on how the past was lived from the waterside.

Boat tours are very well known around Thailand. This is attributed to the fact that Thai people consider themselves jôw nám (water lords). If you are a couple in the area, the perfect romantic getaway on the water would be to take a dinner cruise. This allows for you to see the sites and also get a beautiful Thai meal served to you!

If you are old-fashioned, there are many walking tours offered around Bangkok that will suit your needs. Ranging from long to short, walking tours can be completely customizable or you can join a group to get the detailed walking tour.

Any way you look at it, Bangkok offers tours to quench your thirst, whether you are a walker, biker, or a boat rider. Step into the magnificent city that is Bangkok and take the time to learn and explore the culture and history of the ancient city that has marveled people for centuries!

We are a leading travel agency that offers a wide range of tour packages to South-east Asia. Our Bangkok free and easy tour packages are among the most popular travel destinations. Feel free to check them out on our website at www.lokopoko.travel/3-days-2-nights-bangkok-packages

Article Source: Jim_Rossi

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Attractive Places to Visit In Malaysia

Malaysia is a small country located in South-East Asia with a land area of 330,000sq km. It is a federal constitutional monarchy consisting of 13 states and 3 federal territories. Kuala Lumpur, an enclave within the state of Selangor is the capital city. Putrajaya is the seat of the federal government.

It is separated into two regions by the South China Sea; West Malaysia or Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak) on the island of Borneo.

Peninsular Malaysia is attached to the mainland Asia via Thailand in the north and it is connected to Singapore in the south with a narrow man-made causeway. East Malaysia takes up about a third of the northern island of Borneo and is bordered by Indonesia and Brunei.

Malaysia is located near the equator, and it is hot and humid throughout the year with an average rainfall of 98 in (250 cm) a year and average temperature of 80°F (27°C).

Malaysia boasts about 4700 km of coastal line with about 2000 km in Peninsular Malaysia and about 2700 in East Malaysia.

It is also home to the oldest tropical rainforest in the world. Approximately 60% of the Malaysian land is covered by forest.

Malaysia's strategic location along the Straits of Malacca and South China Sea has contributed much to its history and economy. It is the center stage for interaction of a wide array of nations in the past. Malaysia's history is riddled with traders from India, Indonesia, and China and foreign colonial powers such as the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British. The interactions and influences of these various nations can be seen in the different races, religion, traditions, culture and food that make up the Malaysian population along with the indigenous local population.

In 2010 the population of Malaysia was around 28 million, consisting of many ethnic groups. The Bumiputeras make up about 67%, whereas 24% is of Chinese descent and those of Indian descent and others make up the rest.

Malaysia successfully diversified its economy from dependence on agrarian, raw material exports into an emerging multi-sector economy based on manufacturing, services and tourism. In the 70's Malaysia used to be the world's largest producer and exporter of tin, rubber and palm oil. Today it is one of the world's largest electronic products exporter of computers, computer parts, refrigerators and air-conditioners. It is also the ninth most visited country in the world, with about 24 million tourists visiting it in 2010.

With the government's vision of achieving developed country status by 2020, Malaysia has seen tremendous transformation in the last couple of decades. And this presents the visitors with some of the most extreme contrasts. You can go up the world famous Petronas Twin Towers sky-bridge, the tallest twin towers in the world as you look down on small villages with wooden houses built on stilts. You can also catch the KL Tower with its revolving restaurant, the Kuala Lumpur City Center and 5-star hotels and less than an hour away in Port Klang you can have the best sea-food caught by the local fishermen and served fresh by restaurants built along the river.

Malaysia is also a shopper's paradise. Huge shopping malls are located around the country selling anything from world famous designer watches, clothes and accessories to locally made hand crafts and oil paintings. Notable malls are Suria KLCC, Berjaya Times Square, Bukit Bintang and the theme-park-like Sunway Pyramid. The malls are jam packed at day times as the locals try to escape the hot and humid temperature by shopping or window shopping in the air conditioned malls.

You can also visit many famous theme parks such as the Sunway Lagoon, the Lost World of Tambun and the recently opened Legoland. I-City in Shah Alam in the state of Selangor is famous for the Digital Lights. There is also natural hot springs that double as resorts such as the Sungai Klah Hot Spring in Perak.

Banjaran Titiwangsa in Peninsular Malaysia runs from Kedah in the north to Johor in the south. Many hills located in this mountain range had been developed for agriculture, entertainment and for purely to escape the hot and humid weather that Malaysia experiences throughout the year. Cool throughout the year these hill resorts serve as a refuge from the hot temperate weather. Cameron Highlands is famous for vegetable farming, Genting Highlands is known as City of Entertainment and is the home to Malaysia's only licensed casino centre. Fraser Hill and Bukit Larut [formerly known as Maxwell Hill] are two resorts that cater to people specifically wishing to escape from the hot and humid temperatures.

Malaysia in its natural beauty offers some of the most unique flora and fauna to the world. The human like Orangutan (Man of the Jungle) can be found in their natural habitat in Sabah and Sarawak. The world's largest flower with the smell of a corpse or rotting flesh, Rafflesia is also found here. Sabah also hosts the tallest mountain in South East Asia, the Mount Kinabalu.

Malaysia boasts some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in the world such as Pulau Tioman, Pulau Redang, Pulau Pangkor, Pulau Perhentian and the world famous scuba diving island that was featured in the Survivor series Pulau Sipadan. These are just a few of the many beautiful islands with crystal clear water that dot the Malaysian coasts. Pulau Langkawi offers a visitor the opportunity to view the natural landscape with its Sky Bridge, a 125m long and 700m above sea level.

Malaysia's pluralistic, multi-racial and multi-cultural population of Malays, Chinese, Indians and the indigenous population in Sabah and Sarawak makes it rich in traditions and cultures as well as a food lovers' paradise.

Though they maintain their own traditions, customs and religions, they share a common bond with other Malaysians that makes Malaysia truly Asia. Malaysians celebrate the Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, Hari Raya Puasa, Deepavali, Christmas, Hari Wesak and Hari Gawai. Thaipusam which is a religious festival celebrated by the Hindus in the country. It is celebrated in a grand scale in Batu Caves in Selayang. Hundreds of thousands of devotees will walk up the 272 steps to the limestone caves that is said to be 400 million years old.

It is not difficult to find Malay, Chinese, Indian traditional food as well as the blend of all three served at most restaurants and road side hawkers 24 hours a day. One can also find western restaurants serving spaghetti, pizza and sandwiches alongside the local banana-leaf restaurants serving chicken curry, fish head curry, rice noodles and "nasi lemak". And if you're longing for some good old fast food there's always McDonalds, Burger King and KFC in most urban areas.

It wouldn't be Malaysia if we do not talk about the local fruits, especially the king of fruits, the durian! The hard and spiked shelled fruit with its strong pungent aroma is a must-try for any visitor. However you'll be excused if you decide you do not wish to give it a try. Star fruits, rambutans, mangoes, pineapples and guavas grow in abundance in farmlands and in people's back yards. It would be nearly impossible to walk by a neighborhood and not see these fruit trees in the gardens.

Tourists can also experience the life of a local family by participating in the HomeStay program. The HomeStay program was created to allow tourists to stay with a local host family and experiencing the family's daily life. The tourist gets to work in the field, eat with the host family and doing all the chore that the host family does in its daily life.

Malaysia is indeed a wonderful country to visit. Its natural and man-made beauty with its multiracial population is eco-tourists' as well as a gastronome's paradise. With so much to offer, it is no wonder Malaysia is one of the most visited countries in the world.

http://www.touristfactory.com lists all the attractive places to visit in Malaysia. The reader will have a bird's view of what each state in the country has to offer to the tourist.

Article Source: Thiruchelvam_R

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Top 12 Cultural Experiences in Russia

Russia is the largest country in the world so it is no wonder that there are many interesting and unique Russian cultural experiences to see and participate in.

Russia is home to 160 different ethnic and indigenous groups. This diverse population has influenced everything from Russian language and literature to the arts, music and dance to the Russian lifestyle and traditions, food, architecture, and the media.

There are unique cultural experiences to be had in every corner of this amazing country.

1) Cooking Lessons

Get a hands-on taste of Russian cuisine with a Russian cooking lesson. Understand how history, culture and cuisine influence each other and gain an appreciate the art of turning basic ingredients into tasty, heart-warming dishes.

2) Arts and Crafts

Watch skilled craftsmen at work creating Buryat tapestry and Altai wood carving. Go on a city shopping tour to hunt for classic collector's items like matrioshka (Russian doll), valenki (felt boots) and Siberian ceramics or see the wares of ancient communities in the art museum in Irkutsk, or in Krasnoyarsk's Cultural Historical Museum.

3) Russian Ballet Theatre

Although the Russian Ballet can be seen when the Ballet Company travels to world, experiencing the romance and grace in their home country is like no other experience. Russian ballet theatre is renowned the world over. Home to the world's most prestigious ballet schools, Russia has produced many of the world's most celebrated dancers. 56th Parallel can add a Russian Ballet experience onto any tour but is highly recommended in Moscow, St Petersburg, Novosibirsk and Krasnoyarsk.

4) Russian Ethnic Groups

Meet the locals in remote villages and participate in daily life. Meet nomads and their horses in an isolated camp on the great Siberian plains, or experience a warm traditional welcome and rustic food in an authentic rural Russian home stay. a visit to one of Russians remote communities will leave lasting memories.

5) Russian Banya

This invigorating tradition is one not to be missed. You will shed your clothes and enter the Banya room, where your sweat will begin to run freely from every pore in your body. Traditionally, the next step involves an invigorating and strangely pleasurable 'beating' with a bundle of birch branches, followed by a bracing dip in an icy cold plunge pool.

6) Russian Troika

One of the most enchanting images of winter in Russia is the troika ('trio'), a sled drawn by three horses harnessed side-by-side. A troika ride can be a gentle and scenic, or it can take you through dashing through the snow at speeds of up to 50km per hour. As an honoured guest you will be able to enjoy the comfort of a traditional, beautifully decorated sled, warm coats and the guidance of an expert driver skilled in horse-keeping.

7) Shaman Ceremony

Experience this ancient and mystical tradition. The indigenous communities of Siberia provide an extraordinary opportunity to witness some of the world's best preserved shamanistic and animist traditions.

8) Sightseeing

In Russia and Siberia there is no shortage of widely known sights to visit. Each Russian sightseeing tour includes an informative guide who can answer all your questions and take the stress out of seeing the popular sites. 56th Parallel's new Moscow and Saint Petersburg tours make sure you get the most out of your time in each city, seeing the famous sites as well as visiting some lesser known but equally spectacular ones.

9) Try Traditional Food

Every 56th Parallel tour offers you the opportunity to enjoy some of the best cuisine Siberia has to offer. We are able to show you the best places to try traditional food because we have connections with local people and communities. Although food varies from region to region it is generally robust, filling and most importantly tasty.

10)Learn to Speak Russian

The best way to get the most out of your trip is to learn the basics of the language. Even the most basic understanding of the Russian language can be invaluable when trying to communicate and get around. We can organise Russian language lessons for you in major cities, either before or after your tour, or in your free time while on tour.

11) Experience Russian Festivals

Be a guest as Russian history and culture come to life in a colourful display of music and dance. As in other parts of the world, Easter, Christmas and New Years are major festival seasons in Russia. To allow you to experience these amazing festivals we try to align several trips a year with regional festivals such as the Baikal shaman festival, the summer festival in Yakutia, various ice sculpture exhibitions and ethnic music festivals throughout Siberia.

12) Russian Vodka Tasting

Distilled in Russia for well over a thousand years and intrinsically linked to celebrating, socialising and enjoying life, vodka holds a special place in almost every Russian's heart. A Russian vodka tasting experience will allow you to try different types of vodka from across the country. This experience is the perfect way to kick-start a night out on the town.

Russian Cultural Experiences

Discover more about these unique and awe-inspiring Russian cultural experiences to decide which ones you want to try on your next Russian adventure.

56th Parallel is a travel company specialising in adventure, culture and adrenaline travel and activities in Russia and Siberia.

Check out our blog, http://www.56thparallel.com/blog or like us on Facebook https://www.Facebook.com/56thParallel to discover more about Russian cultural experiences

Article Source: Misha_Schneider

Temples of Angkor Spiral Notebooks by VietnamandCambodia
Make a notebook at Zazzle

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Some Great Dishes to Try During Your Vietnam Tour

When it comes to Asian cuisine, Americans are most familiar with Chinese cuisine. After all, the Chinese have been in America, in large numbers, since the 1800s. Many immigrants and native-born Americans alike developed an appreciation for Chinese cuisine during the heyday of railroad construction in Western states in the 1800s. As a result, Chinese cuisine has remained a fairly constant popular alternative to the standard burger or fried chicken American mealtime options. Starting with the influx of Vietnamese 'boat people' in the late 70s and early 80s, Vietnamese cuisine has slowly entered the American culinary imagination. What's not to love? For health-conscious Americans, there are scrumptious and delectable imperial rolls made of rice paper, rice vermicelli, carrot slices, tofu, basil leaves, and dollop of hoisin sauce. For meat lovers, the classic ban mi sandwich offers some gastronomic delights. Obviously inspired by the long French colonial experience in Indochina, the ban mi sandwich incorporate french elements like liverwurst and marries it to Vietnamese tastes in the form of roasted pork and 'special sauce.'

When you go out on your vietnam tour, definitely check out the local versions of the two classic Vietnamese dishes above. Make sure to check out the local variations and improvisations of these classic dishes. Be on the look out for different ingredients and different sauces added to the mix. You are in for quite a culinary treat and adventure. However, there is one dish that you definitely have to try. Your vietnam tour just won't be a vietnam tour without it. We are, of course, talking about pho. This dish is the quintessential Vietnamese dish. In fact, regardless of which Vietnamese enclave you visit in the US or in France, you will be sure to find a place that serves up this delectable soup. The classic pho soup is made of beef stock and rice noodles. These are the classic ingredients of pho. Everything else is delicious improvisation. Most pho restaurants serve thai basil, mung bean sprouts, a lemon wedge and some other garnishes with your pho. The fun thing about pho is that there are so many local variations of it. As you wind your way through Vietnam, sample as many local versions of this iconic Vietnamese dish. Doing this is a vietnam tour in of itself. Make sure not to put too much garnish though. Don't disguise the flavor by putting too much garnish Instead, pay close attention to the base ingredients in the stock.

As for other Vietnamese dishes, you can explore the many rice and noodle dishes that fluctuate Vietnamese cuisine. You will clearly see the many strands of Chinese influences in Vietnamese cuisine. Enjoy local variations and enjoy comparing the Vietnamese version to similar Chinese dishes. Keep in mind, however, just because a Vietnamese dish seems similar to a Chinese dish, it can't be dismissed as a purely knockoff of Chinese recipes. Pay careful attention to the difference ingredient variations play in the overall taste, texture, and impact of a Vietnamese dish.

Kaden found the amazing Indochina on his travel map and really love his Vietnam tour experience. His trip on one of Vietnam tour packages was a blast. You can be the next to feel the same. I invite you to hottest tourists' spots in Vietnam.

Article Source: Kaden_Wilson

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Zimbabwe - The World Of Wonders

Zimbabwe's economy is largely dependent on exports of minerals, agriculture, platinum mining and tourism. It is a home to various cultures, beliefs and ritual ceremonies, craftsmanship in pottery, basketry, jewellery, carving, national parks, the great ruins, botanical parks, museums, the largest waterfall in the world, wildlife, and so much more. English is the official language apart from Shona and Ndebele. Set in the Southern part of the African continent, Zimbabwe is frequently visited by the visitors seeking solace away from the bustling city life.

Peak of Adventure!!

So if you want to be on-top-of-the world head to mount Inyangani (8504ft near the Inyanga National Park in eastern highlands of Zimbabwe), or the Vumba (lying 25 km in the south east of Mutare and Chimanimani mountain ranges) and treat yourself to a visual delight of lush green pine forests, ravines, sharp cliffs, shiny streams with sparkling trout and you might just get lucky to get a glimpse of rare wild life.

Moving down to the plains, the Hwange National Park (in between the Bulawayo and Vic Falls in Zimbabwe), offers hunting and safari expeditions adhering to the national conservation program can really test that 'adventurous' in you. Shoot with your lens [only]; leopards, antelopes, cheetahs and other exotic wild life.

History's Mystery

If you think history-is-mystery then visit the Khami (in the western part of modern city of Bulawayo), Dhlo-Dhlo (80 kms away from Gweru) and Naletale ruins (in Matabeleland north just 25 kilometres east of Shangani), and these ancient ruined cities are sure to capture your imagination, and if you want to indulge in something more spectacular and larger than life, the Victoria Falls is the place. 600 million litres of water per plunge, 1.5 miles wide, spray visibility 20 miles is sure to thrill the living daylights out of you.

Other attractions are the Modern Museum, Art Galleries, the Larvon Bird Garden, Ewanrigg Botanical Gardens, beautiful landscaped parks, and the Rhodes Matopos National Park, famous for its granite boulders jutting skyward from the bowels of the earth is sheer spectacle, and all this complemented with a pleasant climate makes Zimbabwe the 'Sunshine City'. Bulawayo is Zimbabwe's second city and a major commercial, industrial hub and favourite with tourists for shopping local stuff.

Bon Appetite!

Cornmeal is the staple food for Zimbabweans, which is used to make porridge or locally known as Sadza, which is eaten with a side dish consisting of lamb, beef, chicken or vegetables. For the tourists it offers a huge palate of local and international cuisine provided you are game for it! Springbok [African Gazelle], Kudu [Large Antelope] Impala [Antelope] or how about some Crocodile Tail or Warthog, sounds yummy but folks don't worry there is aplenty for those with lighter taste-buds. Harare Restaurant in the 336 Herbert Chitepo Avenue, Harare is ideal for tasting the delicacies including Warthog at the most exclusive rates.

Wild Geese Lodge, Amanzi's, Sopranos, Victoria 22, at Harare offer sumptuous, inexpensive meals and drinks, all with a colonial touch is sure to make your day and night! For the seafood lovers 'Fishmonger' is a must visit, gorge on lobsters, crabs, and fresh scallops and on your way back from the Victoria Falls, check out The Boma and enjoy being served beef, pork, fish and chicken on cast iron plates. Lager-lovers get blessed by the 'Witch Doctor', cheers!!

And if all this has failed to excite your insatiable appetite for adventure and fun, take a leap of the Victoria Falls [Bungee Jumping]. Zimbabwe will certainly not disappoint you as far as holidays are concerned. You can plan family holidays or honeymoon trip to Zimbabwe and can rest assured of the beauty and exquisiteness that you can view and experience.

So, go ahead and book your holidays now! Also, book well in advance to avoid any confusions at the end.

The author is an avid traveler who likes to write about travel destinations. She shares some exclusive travel tips and travel destinations on her blog http://detailedtravel.blogspot.in/. Get in touch for travel writing services.

Article Source: Prer_Malhan

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Bangladesh - A Charming Country Blessed With Natural Beauty

Bangladesh a country in South Asia is a diverse and intriguing mix of culture, tradition and unforgettable beauty. Spanning the fertile Ganges-Brahmaputra delta, the country was once a part of Bengal. As you fly over Bangladesh you will come across a mosaic of green farmlands and streaks of meandering rivulets that offer themselves in an unforgettable Kaleidoscope of colors. So book cheap flights to Bangladesh as sparkling rivers, breathtaking mountains and spectacular adventures are just waiting for you around every nook and corner. It is one of the most populated countries in the world and is a home to extraordinary historical sites that captivates the imagination of its visitors through its buildings and monuments that remind the present and future generations about glorious past of this amazing country.

The tourist spots in Bangladesh are still not that renowned but anyone visit the country will learn that there is plenty to see over here. It's tropical, mild winters and humid summers make it a perfect destination that can be visited throughout the year. Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh is located on the banks of bustling Buriganga River is the major economic and cultural center. The premier attraction of city is Lalbagh Fort, which is an unfinished fort dated 1678 is located in Old City. The area is also decked with some attractive mosques like Hussaini Dalan,the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque and star Mosque.The spectacular Hindu temples of Dhakeshwari Temple and Ramakrishna Mission are monumental masterpieces in this Islamic nation.

The city is also adorned with some amazing museums and gardens. Bangabandhu Memorial Museum is among the major attractions of city. The museum was originally the former residence of the father of nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman which displays rare collection of artifacts and photographs depicting his life. Among the other important museums worth seeing are Mukti Juddha Museum, Ahsan Manzil Museum and National Museum. The city is also decked with breathtaking beautiful gardens to enjoy recreational activities. Dhaka Zoo, Botanical Gardens and National Park are among the major scenic spots of city. So just grab the opportunity and book discounted London Dhaka flights and visits these amazing sights of national pride.

Beside the city of Dhaka the country is also adorned with other amazing attractions. Somapura Mahavihara is a UNESCO preserved site encompassing 27 acres. Artifacts, inscriptions and sculptures have been unearthed at the site makes it a worth visit destination. The Kantaji Temple is one of the grandest Hindu temples in Bangladesh. Another scenic spot is Cox's Bazaar which is located in Chittagong district is a 120 km long beach is a most remarkable tourist spot. Among other attractions of the site include Alameda Khyand a Buddhist monastery and Himchori which is a beautiful picnic spot.

If you visit Bangladesh, then you can't afford to miss a visit to Sundarbans, the mangrove forests which is one of the biggest in the world and is the UNESCO preserved site as well. This is indeed a land for sportsmen, the anglers and the photographers with its abundance of game, big and small and above all the Royal Bengal Tiger is majestic and graceful.

Linda Finnegan is an expert in the tourism industry and has extensive knowledge about flights to Bangladesh from UK and deals on Dhaka flights.

Article Source: Linda_Finnegan

 

Laos Tours: 5 Best Tourist Destinations in Laos

Laos is a country in Southeast Asia that has a geography that isolates it from the rest of the world. But this isolation from the rest of the world has only made a visit to Laos seem like a trip back in time. Laos tours are designed to be relaxing in order to complement fully its laid-back lifestyle and vibrant culture. But as more roads are opened into the sleepy country, hundreds of tourists venture into an adventure into its midst every year.

Here are the top 5 tourist destinations in Laos.

1. Si Phan Don

Si Phan Don is majestic. The term translates to mean "4,000 islands" but more than that, it has the great Mekong River coursing through them. While majority of the river is impassable because of the strong current, there are certain parts that are offer kayaking and boating. If you're lucky, you might even see some of the highly endangered Irrawaddy Dolphins at the Khone Falls nearby.

2. Plain of Jars

It's not every day that you get to see a plain filled with ancient jars. In some places, these jars wouldn't survive centuries because they could either get damaged with land expansions or stolen for their value. But not in Laos.

The plain of jars is usually included in most Laos tours. It is located around the town of Phonsavan. These stone jars are said to be prehistoric burial practices so they are closely associated to the culture and tradition of the ancient Lao.

3. Pha That Luang

The Pha That Luang is the most important infrastructure in Laos. It is golden so it's very hard to miss from afar. The stupa is located in Vientiane and has several terraces that represent the stages of Buddha enlightenment.

While on your Laos tours, your guide will tell you that the Pha That Luang was built in the 16th century on top of the ruins of the Khmer Temple. It is very rich in history so feel free to create new memories in it too.

4. Luang Prabang "The World Heritage City"

The Luang Prabang Province is one of the most beautiful areas in Laos. It is located nearest to the Mekong River and is home to several high valleys. In ancient times, the Luang Prabang was called the "Kingdom of a Million Elephants".

The entire province can be covered on foot so you don't need to hire any means of transportation. Also, it is amazing to see how the culture of this province remains to be intact and its beauty unspoilt.

5. Tham Ting (Park of Holy Caves)

This is a rather unusual place to see. Located in a cave above the Mekong River, the Tham Ting is a sanctuary to the many Buddha statues that it houses. The cave is an integral part of the people's religion. Every time a Lao visits a cave, it is imperative that a Buddha statue be left as a sign of respect and reverence. That is why the number of statues inside the holy cave increases every year.

Since Laos is located near the Mekong River, boats are among the best and most effective means of transportation. The mountainous area also makes it difficult for your ordinary cars and vehicles so the Lao became more creative and thought of the Tuk Tuks or motorcycle pulling a wagon with two benches. Enjoy your Laos tours!

For a hassle-free, exciting and within the budget tour in Laos, talk to a reputable tour operator such as Minmaxtravel. Minmaxtravel can arrange your tour so that your trip is memorable and extraordinary. With minmaxtravel, you only pay the minimum but you experience the maximum joy a Laos tour can offer.

Article Source: Jane_Susaeta