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Attractive places in Japan

2009-08-21T04:54:00.000-07:00

Cornwallis Beach

On the way to Huia, stop and check on the progress of the Auckland Regional Council's wharf restoration project at Cornwallis. (Wharf, Carpark)

Titirangi Beach

Just minutes from the Town centre along Titirangi Beach Road, this beach is ideal for parking up.

Watch wading birds on extensive mudflats exposed at low tide. There is a playground and toilets available also.

Armour Bay

An ideal place for families with children. Here they can frolic in the sea, indulge in a game of petanque or play games on the large flat common and there are rock pools to explore too. At the days end, after all that sun and sea enjoy a barbecue on site (you'll need some coins). For the energetic there are tennis courts (perhaps the City's most scenic ones) and a boat ramp for launching dinghies or kayaks.

How to get there
Take the road to Huia - go just past Parau and turn left at Armour Bay Rd at the sign marking Armour Bay Reserve.

Cranwell Park

Cranwell is the centre of recreational activities in Henderson with the Library, Aquatic Centre, Waitakere Recreation Centre, croquet and bowling clubs. A pleasant picnic spot among the historical trees - a link to the park's orcharding past and for the music fans there's a memorial to Elvis. Cranwell Park is the start of the Henderson Creek Walkway.

Hotels and resorts of Japan

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Seiryuso

The unique feature of M14101 is you can be released from everyday burden amid the depth and extension of the nature. The swimming spa (25m swimming pool with pure spa water) raises abundant vapor to the height of winter sky.

Our garden, a likeness of vast forest somewhere in the world, holds `Kelo (sauna)´, a naive log sauna with wood stove, `Palm Terrace ( a spa suite)´, with Fango-rassoul (fango pack in hamam)... and the hammock terrace, where you enjoy prolonged napping. Please breathe the mixture of pure mountain air and ozone from the Pacific, in our garden.

Besides having relaxing & enjoyable time at our new Garden Spa, we offer you another comfort in RilassarsI treatment, feeling Japanese ambience. Please start your refreshing vacation with our original herb tea and a madelaine, which novelist, Yukio Mishima favored. In traditional Japanese room, you can get 30 min. free Rilassarsi treatment, on your shoulder & back…Natural loofah sponge and aloe soap (Shimoda specialty) is ready for your bath time. A bottle of fango at Palm Terrace, Attivante / Freiburg, is also a gift for you.

Property amenities:
22 Japanese-style rooms-suites; 6 Japanese-style suites; Lift-Elevator; Car park; Air-conditionned rooms or restaurant.

Outdoor pool, Whirlpool, Hammam, Solarium, Hiking, Horseback, Fishing, Sailing, Diving, Kayaking.

Alpine Lodge Minakami

Alpine Lodge is situated in the mountain township of Minakami, one of Japan's premiere hot spring and ski resorts in the North of Gunma Prefecture. The lodge is primely located in the Yubiso area (valley of the hidden hot springs), which lies in the center of Minakami's 10 ski fields, with the closest field just 200 meters from the back door.

Guests have a variety of activities and adventures to choose from while staying at the lodge, from on-piste skiing and snowboarding to backcountry and snowshoe tours, Alpine Lodge has a package that is suitable for everyone.

Every weekend there will be various music and outdoor events ranging from acoustic live to DJ's and bands.

Property amenities:
Bar/Cafe;
Lounge with satellite TV, DVD and VHS players;
Club/movie theatre;
300 sq m wood bbq deck;
Shower facilities;
Giant baths - mens, womens, mixed;
Free washing machine;
Drying room;
Western toilets;
Pool table;
Free Internet and wireless Internet available;
Fully equiped communal kitchen;
Dinning room;
Ski demo center;
Gear shop.

Nearby attractions and activities:
10 ski areas, Japan's largest outdoor Hot Spring, Craft and cultural village. Whitewater rafting, canyoning, downhill MTB, paragliding.

Location:
Minakami has been one of Japans' best kept winter secrets. A hot spring resort town nestled in the Tanigawa Range in Northern Gunma, just 72 minutes by train from Tokyo.

Angel Seaside Minamiatami

When you've had about as much as you can handle, consider booking a lovely resort home at Angel Seaside Minamiatami, Atami-Shi Sizuoka. Rentals of timeshares at Angel Seaside Minamiatami provide affordable luxury.

Hotel Wakamizu

Hotel Wakamizu offers hot spring bathing and delicious Japanese food.
Enjoy a soothing soak in the warm water of Takarazuka Hot Spring, which was discovered about 700 years ago.

Hotel Wakamizu is located within 25 minutes from Osaka Station, 35 minutes from Shin-osaka and Kobe and 55 minutes from Kyoto. Our convenient location makes us the top choice among many onsen resorts in the Kansai / Kinki region. The open-air bath for ladies is filled with roses twice a week. Private baths are also available. We offer a high standard of food. Enjoy Japanese meals with your family and friends in the peaceful riverside setting.

Spend your dream holidays at Hotel Wakamizu.

Cities of Japan

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Tokyo

Tokyo is Japan's capital and the country's largest city.

Tokyo is also one of Japan's 47 prefectures but is called a metropolis (to) rather than a prefecture (ken). The metropolis of Tokyo consists of 23 city wards (ku), 26 cities, 5 towns and 8 villages, including the Izu and Ogasawara Islands, several small Pacific Islands in the south of Japan's main island Honshu.

The 23 city wards (ku) are the center of Tokyo and make up about one third of the metropolis' area, while housing roughly eight of Tokyo's approximately twelve million residents.

Prior to 1868, Tokyo was known as Edo. A small castle town in the 16th century, Edo became Japan's political center in 1603 when tokugava laysu established his feudal government there. A few decades later, Edo had grown into one of the world's most populous cities.

With the meiji restoration of 1868, the emperor and capital were moved from kyoto to Edo, which was renamed Tokyo ("Eastern Capital"). Large parts of Tokyo were destroyed in the great kanto earthqake of 1923 and in the air raids of 1945.

Osaka

With a population of 2.5 million, Osaka is Japan's third largest and second most important city. It has been the economic powerhouse of the Kansai region for many centuries.

Osaka was formerly known as Naniwa. Before the Nara Period, when the capital used to be moved with the reign of each new emperor, Naniwa was once Japan's capital city, the first one ever known.

In the 16th century, Toyotomi Hideyoshi chose Osaka as the location for his castle, and the city may have become Japan's capital if Tokugawa Ieyasu had not terminated the Toyotomi lineage after Hideyoshi's death and moved his government to distant Edo (Tokyo).

Yokohama

With a population of over three million people is Yokohama Japan's second largest city. Yokohama is located less than half an hour south of Tokyo by train, and is the capital of Kanagawa Prefecture.

Towards the end of the Edo Period (1603-1867), during which Japan maintained a policy of self-isolation, Yokohama's port was one of the first to be opened to foreign trade in 1859. Consequently, Yokohama quickly grew from a small fishing village into one of Japan's major cities.

Until today, Yokohama remains popular among expats, has one of the world's largest chinatowns and preserves some former Western residences in the Yamate district.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima has been the principal city of the Chugoku Region for hundreds of years. After its construction in the 16th century, Hiroshima Castle was the most formidable fortification for miles. Today, Hiroshima is a vibrant city and home to over a million inhabitants.

When the first atomic bomb was dropped over Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, the city became known worldwide for this unenviable distinction. The destructive power of the bomb was tremendous and obliterated nearly everything within a 2 km radius. One of the few buildings that remained standing afterwards has been preserved; known today as the A-Bomb Dome, it is a monument to the bomb's dreadful power.

After the war, great efforts were taken to rebuild the city. Predictions that the city would be uninhabitable proved false. Destroyed monuments of Hiroshima's historical heritage, like Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden, were reconstructed. In the center of the city a large park was built and given a name that would reflect the aspirations of the re-born city: Peace Memorial Park.

Despite the legacy of the bomb, Hiroshima has very much become a modern city. The downtown area is filled with places to shop, eat, and otherwise enjoy oneself. Another testament to Hiroshima's vitality is the Mazda Motor Corporation, which is based in the city. Mazda has a large factory outside the city center that offers visitors a museum as well as a look at its cars being assembled.

Economy of Japan

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Government-industry cooperation, a strong work ethic, mastery of high technology, and a comparatively small defense allocation (1% of GDP) helped Japan advance with extraordinary rapidity.

Japan's industrial sector is heavily dependent on imported raw materials and fuels. Japan is among world's largest and technologically advanced producers of motor vehicles, electronic equipment, machine tools, steel and nonferrous metals, ships, chemicals, textiles, and processed foods.

Comparatively, the agricultural sector is small. It is highly subsidized and protected, with crop yields among the highest in the world. Japan maintains one of the world's largest fishing fleets and accounts for nearly 15% of the global catch.

Although, economic growth was slow in the 1990s, it recently improved again. Japan's huge government debt, which totals 176% of GDP, and the aging of the population are two major long-run problems.

The currency of Japan is the Yen.

Culture of Japan

2009-08-21T03:17:00.000-07:00

Japan’s schizophrenic culture may leave you gasping for breath as you try to navigate its multifaceted depths. Over the centuries, Japan has been shaped by outside influences and has gone through periods of intense isolation. The result is a culture that is uniquely layered.

On the one hand, there are magnificent temples, serene shrines, kabuki, nō, tea ceremonies and museums full of remnants of its rich artistic heritage. On the other hand, there is stark, spare modernism—karaoke bars, video game parlours, Western fashion and minimalist urban living.

Traditional Japanese arts include crafts such as ikebana and origami, performances such as kabuki, unique architecture, gardens, martial forms, and cuisine. Manga is a traditional form of comic books that blends traditional woodblock printing and Western art. Anime, which is television and film influenced by Manga, is also renowned the world over.

Japan is no laggard in literature either. The Tale of Genji by Lady Murasaki is often described as the world's first novel. Modern novelists include Junichiro Tanazaki, Yasunari Kawabata, Kenzaburo Oe and Haruki Murakami. Kawabata and Oe have both received the Nobel Prize for Literature.

Sumo is considered Japan's national sport and is one of its most popular. Martial arts such as judo, karate and kendō are also widely practiced in the country. Baseball is a popular spectator sport.

History of Japan

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The earliest known inhabitants of this group of islands were hunters, fisherman and gatherers who came from Korea or Siberia, or by sea from Polynesia. The arrival of Buddhism in the sixth century influenced Japan significantly and introduced Chinese elements in political institutions, the writing system, and the lifestyle of the ruling class. Shinto deities took on Buddhist forms.

By the eleventh century, these influences waned and the country entered a long feudal period, during which different rulers and a Shogun (military leader) exercised power over Japan. This era lasted till the nineteenth century when the Tokugawa Shogunate’s reign, which insisted on strict obedience and loyalty and exercised almost fanatical control against outside influences, started declining. In 1868, the Meiji Restoration transformed Japan into a world power under the guidance of rulers dedicated to the pursuit of national wealth and strength. This was also the time that Westernization and modernization shaped the country into much of what it is presently.

While Japan sided with the Allied forces during WWI, it signed a tripartite pact with Germany and Italy in 1940 and WWII saw conflict with the US, with disastrous consequences—the release of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Japan was occupied until 1952 by US forces but a recovery program after that enabled the economy to expand rapidly, and Japan became the world's most successful export economy.

In recent years, a massive earthquake in 1995 and a poison gas attack on the Tokyo subway system as well as a sluggish economy have been concerns that the country has grappled with.

Attractive places in India

2009-08-20T10:14:00.000-07:00

Calangute Beach, Goa

Calangute is a beach that is around 16 kms from Panjim, North Goa. The most basic attraction is Baga Beach. The best time to visit this place is from December To February.

Calangute derives its name from the local vernacular word—‘Koli-gutti’, meaning land of fishermen. It is the most popular holiday resort in Goa popularly known as the queen of Goan beaches. The rainbow hued canvas of Calangute has welcomed everyone. Seemingly not all that long ago, Calangute was the beach all self-respecting hippies headed for, especially around Christmas when psychedelic hell broke loose.

There are hardly any palms, the sand is contaminated with red soil and the beach drops rapidly into the sea. But wait, there’s more… On the shores of the Arabian Sea, under the shade of palm trees, bathes the Queen of Beaches—Calangute. Some call it Kalyangutti (village of art) or Konvallo-ghott (strong pit of the coconut tree) because the village is full of coconut trees. There are picturesque agors (saltpans) at Agarvaddo, and Maddavaddo is full of madd (coconut trees). While Dongorpur skirts a bottle-green hillock, Tivaivaddo laces the beach. In Gauravaddo lived the gaudds or milkmen ran dairies. Calangute's heyday as the Mecca of all expatriate hippies has passed. It has undergone a metamorphosis to become the centre of Goa's rapidly expanding package-tourist market. Though it isn't one of the best Goanese beaches, there is however, plenty going on, especially if you don't mind playing a minor role in this stage-managed parody of what travelling is meant to be about.

TRAVEL INFORMATION :
Calangute is one of the best beaches in Goa. It takes just 45 minutes by road to reach to this busy beach and its resorts. Things have become very commercial at this place as of now. There is a drastic change in the outlook of this place which was once more of a fishing village. But today this place has transformed itself to one of the best tourist spots when it comes to beaches.

Corbett Wildlife National Park

Corbett Wildlife National Park: Set up in 1936 as India's first wildlife national park and possibly the finest, the Corbett National Park was established in consultation with the great hunter and conservationist, Jim Corbett. The wildlife park spreads over some 920.9 square km at an altitude of 600 to 1100 metres at the foothills of western Himalayas in the districts of Nainital and Pauri Garhwal. In its eventful 64-year life, it has grown considerably in size and now includes the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary as a part of its 1,319 sq km of reserved forest area.

Thoseghar water fall

Thoseghar is situated in Satara District.The most enchanting natural surroundings. A beautiful view of windmills at nearby Chalkewadi. During the Monsoon season Thoseghar is always the attraction for the picnic lovers. And now a days people are looking for different spots - especially in the rainy season.
Thoseghar is very famous for it's high Waterfall . These Waterfalls are very attractive and creates a loud noise in the calm nature. These waterfalls are also accompanied by a clean lake, dark woods and highly hilly region. You can enjoy various small waterfalls here which are about 15-20 meters high and one of around 500 meters high.

Marching Destination:
By Road: Thoseghar Waterfall is near to Satara City

Prince of wallace musuem

Prince of wallace musuem is located in Mumbai. Prince of wallace musuem femous for collaction of flora & Fauna.
Barely a stone's throw from the Gateway of India is the Prince of Wales Museum, a magnificent, but somewhat strange structure, built in a confluence of Gothic and Moorish styles, and crowned by a sparkling white dome. It boasts a good collection of ancient Indus Valley artifacts dating back to 2000 BC, plus some priceless Tibetan and Nepali Art.
There is an entire gallery devoted to Buddhist tankha scrolls and another to Tibetan bronzes, but the chief attraction here is the collection of over 2000 miniature paintings from the various art schools of India. Next to the Museum is the Bombay Natural History Society, which has an extensive collection of local flora and fauna.

Marching Destination:
By Road: Albert Museum is in Mumbai
By Rail : Mumbai is nearest Railway Station
By Air : Mumbai is nearest airport

Khandala

Khandala is situated in Pune District. Khandala is one of the important hill stations in the state of Maharashtra and is the pride of the Sahyadri mountains. Khandala is endowed with abundant natural beauty. It also provides a popular gateway from the hustle and bustle of cities of Mumbai and Pune. The picturesque green surroundings of this pretty hill station attract the travelers towards it.
Khandala is a small hill station. The town provides a panoramic view of the lush green hilly environs. Travelers throng this place to escape the hectic lifestyle of Mumbai city. They can enjoy the scenic beauty of this place by taking a walk around. It has a number of trekking trails around it.
The popular hill station of Lonavala is only 5 km from Khandala. Lonavala also has the same geographical settings as that of Khandala.There are a number of lakes around Khandala. Tugauli Lake, Lonavala Lake and Bhushi Lake are worth visiting; so is the Walvan Dam.

Resorts in India

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Snow Valley Resorts

Snow Valley Resorts introduces itself as one of the biggest Hotel of Manali having about 50 rooms, with all modern facilities and decorated with local touch. It is situated in the most posh area of Manali, the log hut area. This area is absolutely green and pollution free area. It is located among lush green deodar pine forest and surrounded with apple orchards. The hotel basks in the Sun throughout the day, making the guest feel comfortable and warm. Each room offers excellent view of the Snow clad Mountain Ranges, Forest & orchads.
Snow Valley Resorts is situated at Log Hut area, the only V.I.P. area in Manali, just 1.5 km away from the mall & bus stand.

Marc Royale Hotel

Marc Royale is a 4-star government approved hotel in Zirakpur. It offers a unique blend of most modern amenities and warm hospitality. The hotel has 34 well-appointed rooms with latest amenities. Banquet and meeting can be organized at its function halls. The hotel also has a multi cuisine restaurant and a well stocked bar. Live music and folk dance are organized for entertainment. The nearest railway station and airport are at Chandigarh.

52 tastefully appointed rooms and suites. All centrally air-conditioned with additional fresh air supply. And attached bath with hot and cold running water, channel music, CCTV with Star TV channels and refrigerator in every room plus, direct dialing from each room.

Coconut Lagoon Resort, Kumarakom

Coconut Lagoon is one of the leading Ayurveda resort Located in Kumarakom.It is a part of casino group of hotels. Coconut Lagoon has rightly carved its place among the top 10 heritage resorts of the world. The Coconut Lagoon is known for it's fine Kerala Cuisine and Ayurvedic Spa. An ideal place to relax and experience Kerala.

LOCATION:
Coconut Lagoon is 110 km from Nedumbassery Airport, 18 kms. from Kottayam Railway Station, 14 kms. from Kottayam Bus Stand and 72 kms from Cochin airport.

The resort is on a small island and can be reached only by boat. The accommodation consists of individual cottages built in the traditional Kerala style, relying heavily on wood and some with private pools.

HOTEL FACILITIES:
Room Service, Money Exchange Facilities, Credit Cards Accepted, Restaurant, Swimming Pool, Bar, Doctor on Call, Sunset Cruise, Ayurvedic Center, Health Spa, Expeditions, Country Boat and Fishing.

The Coconut Lagoon at Kumarakom has very comprehensive Ayurvedic Spa. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian science of health and longetivity, deals with the well-being of the spirit as well as of the body and mind. The resort offers, in addition to relaxing ayurvedic massages, complete seven and fourteen day Ayurvedic Rejuvenation packages, where a team of Ayurvedic Specialists take you through a routine of massages combined with yoga and spa specific diets.

Sun Village Beach Resort, Goa

Sun Village is situated near Arpora Beach,with 135 rooms set in the quite hillside on the outskirts of Arpora Village and Baga Beach. Overlooking calm countryside, paddy fields and salt pans. Eight Blocks on three floors surrounding the pool area offers high quality, well appointed spacious rooms with separate sleeping and living area.

TRAVEL INFORMATION :
Distance from Airport : 50 K.M from Airport,
Distance from Railway station : 55 K.M from Margao Railway Station.
Distance from Panjim : 15 K.M from Panjim cit

ROOM FACILITIES :
Accommodation are twin or double bedded rooms with separate living area, divan, ceiling fan, satellite TV, air-conditioning, mini-bar, telephone and balcony. Bathrooms with shower, wc, hot and cold water.

CONFERENCE FACILITIES :
Conference hall to accommodate 80 to 100 on theater style, 35 classroom, 25 "U" Shape and 80 for cocktails, well equipped with audio visual equipment and other basic conference equipment.

OTHER FACILITIES :
Facilities include swimming pool, paddling pool, Sun terraces, air-conditioned restaurant serving multi-cuisine, seasonal Barbecue restaurant, buffet restaurant, pool bar, lobby bar, Pub, health club with gym, Jacuzzi and massage, Pool-Table, Beauty Parlor, hair dresser, table tennis, board games safe deposit, doctor on call, Money exchange.

Live entertainment like folk dance, live music, theme nights etc., are frequent but limited during monsoon.

Cities of India

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Delhi

Being the capital of India and an integral part of the glorious history of the country, Delhi travel guide unveils the rich heritage of the country of India. Delhi, located in the northern part of the country, has a strong influence of the north Indian culture and derives its outlook from the Punjabi culture.

Delhi, India being a cosmopolitan city and the capital of the country is home to people from all over the country and is a melting point of various cultures. Delhi preserves the great Mughal architecture, which includes the most magnificent buildings and structures. With the presence of numerous historical and modern amusement sites, Delhi has always been one of the major tourist destinations of the country. Some of the popular tourist spots in Delhi are:

Red Fort: This elegant fort built out of red stand stone, is considered to be one of the most visited places of Delhi.

Qutab Minar: Built in 1199, it has a height of 72.5 meters from the base.

Jama Masjid: Built by Shah Jahan, it happens to be one of the largest mosques in India.

Jantar Mantar: This observatory was made by Maharaja Jai Singh.

Humayun's Tomb: Built in the 16th century by wife of Humayun, this grand structure is made of red sand stone.

Lodhi Gardens: It has man-made streams and is located around the tombs of Lodhi and Sayid rulers.

The Bahai Temple: Also known as Lotus temple, it was founded in 1986. It has the shape of a lotus after which the name has been kept. Some of the other places of interest for Delhi travel and tourism are:

Nizam-Ud-Din Shrine

Sisgunj Gurudwara

Chandni Chowk

Rajpath and India Gate

Bangla Sahib Gurudwara

National Science Centre

Old fort

ISKCON Temple

Nehru Museum and Planetarium

Lakshmi Narayan Temple

Dolls Museum

Chattarpur Mandir

Mumbai

Mumbai Location is in the Deccan region of India and it is the capital city of the state of Maharashtra. Mumbai location is perfectly set in the western coast of India, by the bank of the Arabian Sea. Mumbai can be called as an island city as it is made from the cluster of seven islands and its name is derived from Mumbadevi (the goddess of the koli fisher folk). Mumbai city consists of two different regions namely the city and the suburbs.

Location of Mumbai is ideal as this metropolitan city is easily accessed by the national and international visitors. Sahara International Airport of Mumbai lies at a proximal distance of 30km from the city centre and offers flight connectivity to all the major cities in the world. The main railway station is Chattrapati Shivaji Terminus is located in the centre of the city and both local and outstation trains ply from here. Other railway station of Mumbai are Dadar, Kurla and Churchgate. The road connectivity of Mumbai is attached to all the parts of India.
Previously Mumbai was known as Bombay and is very famous for the film city or Bollywood. Mumbai is an important commercial and cultural center. Business and trade are carried on large in Mumbai and majority of the foreign companies are based in Mumbai. Mumbai is also the financial capital of India and is a true cosmopolitan city with multiple shopping arcades, gourmet restaurants, nightclubs and interesting sightseeing.

Hence Mumbai acts as a great tourist centre and attracts tourist throughout the globe. Mumbai city in India is a famous city both from the cultural and commercial view point.

Lucknow

Lucknow is the capital city of the state of Uttar Pradesh in India. It is also the administrative headquarters of the district Lucknow and the Lucknow Division. Lucknow is a multicultural city famous for its beautiful gardens, delicious cuisine, poetry and music.

Lucknow in India is a historical place. From the days of the Nawabs till this day it has remained a center of political power. From the decline of the Mughal rule to the rise of the British power – Lucknow has witnessed it all. Numerous places of tourist interest are present here. Bara Imambara, Chhota Imambara, Jama Masjid, Lucknow Residency and Rumi Darwaza are some of them.

Lucknow has a number of shopping places. From the shopping plaza at Hazrat Gunj to the Aminabad market, to the Chowk and the Nakhas (Sunday market) – choices are plenty. Lucknow is famous for its Chikan (thread work) designs. This is a fine specimen of workmanship that is manifested on clothes, mats, bed sheets, etc. The city is also famous for its jewelry and ornament shops.

In Lucknow hotels are available at varying price range. There are luxury hotels as well as budget hotels and economy hotels. M.G. Marg, Rani Laxmi Bai Marg and Gomti Nagar are some of the places where luxury hotels are available. Budget and economy hotels are available in places like Rana Pratap Marg and Charbagh. The cuisine of Lucknow is famous for its individuality. Kebabs, korma, kaliya, zarda and kulcha are some of the popular dishes Lucknow is known for.
Lucknow is well connected to all the major places of India. The airport at Amausi provides links to the major cities of India through direct flights. Express and super fast trains can be boarded from Lucknow Junction and Charbagh station. Lucknow is also on the cross routes of some of the important National Highways.

Kolkata

Kolkata travel makes way for the tourists to the 'City of Joy'. Kolkata, which was formerly known as Calcutta, is known as the Cultural Capital of India. More than 300 years old, it is one of the largest metropolitan cities in India. The city is vibrant and full of life with a cozy cosmopolitan ambiance that never fails to engross and attract people from all over the world. The majestic Hooghly River flows by the city, enhancing its beauty just in the manner the Thames beautifies London.

Previously the Gateway to the country and the capital of the British Raj in India, Kolkata still bears the Victorian imprint on its landscape. Kolkata has witnessed a number of significant happenings of the colonial rule in India. The home of the cultural Renaissance of the early nineteenth century and a number of violent and vigorous nationalist movement, Kolkata continues to be one of the most culturally and politically happening city of India. Home to more than 10 million people, the life of Kolkata is a melting pot of heritage, art, culture, sports, politics and tourism – making it a blissful place for tourists.

The most important city in the eastern India, capital of West Bengal, Kolkata can boast of varied tourist attractions.like

Victoria Memorial

Howrah Bridge

2nd Hoogly Bridge

Town Hall

Kalighat Temple

Birla Planetarium

Fort William

Botanical Garden

Asiatic Society

Ashutosh Museum of Indian Art

Academy of Fine Arts

Nandan Complex

Alipur Zoo

Race Course

Science City

Millenium Park

Aquatica

Nicco Park

Economy of India

2009-08-20T09:30:00.000-07:00

India's population is estimated at more than 1.1 billion and is growing at 1.3% a year. It has the world's 12th largest economy--and the third largest in Asia behind Japan and China--with total GDP in 2007 of around $1.1 trillion ($1,100 billion), based on a 2007 year-end exchange rate of 39.5 rupees to the U.S. dollar. Services, industry, and agriculture account for 55%, 27%, and 18% of GDP respectively. Nearly two-thirds of the population depends on agriculture for its livelihood. 700 million Indians live on $2 per day or less, but there is a large and growing middle class of more than 50 million Indians with disposable income ranging from 200,000 to 1,000,000 rupees per year ($4166-$20,833). Estimates are that the middle class will grow ten-fold by 2025..
India continues to move forward, albeit haltingly, with market-oriented economic reforms that began in 1991. Reforms include increasingly liberal foreign investment and exchange regimes, industrial decontrol, reductions in tariffs and other trade barriers, opening and modernization of the financial sector, significant adjustments in government monetary and fiscal policies, and more safeguards for intellectual property rights.

Real GDP growth for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2007 was 9.4%, up from 9.0% growth in the previous year. Growth for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2009 was initially expected to be between 8.5-9.0%, but has been revised downward by a number of economists to 7.0% or less because of the financial crisis and resulting global economic slowdown. Foreign portfolio and direct investment inflows have risen significantly in recent years. They contributed to $255 billion in foreign exchange reserves by June 2007. Government receipts from privatization were about $3 billion in fiscal year 2003-2004, but the privatization program has stalled since then.

Economic growth is constrained by inadequate infrastructure, a cumbersome bureaucracy, corruption, labor market rigidities, regulatory and foreign investment controls, the "reservation" of key products for small-scale industries, and high fiscal deficits. The outlook for further trade liberalization is mixed and a key WTO Doha Ministerial in July 2008 was unsuccessful due to differences between the U.S. and India (as well as China) over market access. India eliminated quotas on 1,420 consumer imports in 2002 and has incrementally lowered non-agricultural customs duties in recent successive budgets. However, the tax structure is complex, with compounding effects of various taxes.

The United States is India's largest trading partner. Bilateral merchandise trade in 2007 was $41.6 billion. Principal U.S. exports are diagnostic or lab reagents, aircraft and parts, advanced machinery, cotton, fertilizers, ferrous waste/scrap metal, and computer hardware. Major U.S. imports from India include textiles and ready-made garments, Internet-enabled services, agricultural and related products, gems and jewelry, leather products, and chemicals.

The rapidly growing software sector is boosting service exports and modernizing India's economy. Software exports crossed $28 billion in FY 2006-2007, while business process outsourcing (BPO) revenues hit $8.3 billion in 2006-2007. Personal computer penetration is 14 per 1,000 persons. The cellular/mobile market surged to 140 million subscribers by November 2006. The country has 54 million cable TV customers.

The United States is India's largest investment partner, with a 13% share. India's total inflow of U.S. direct investment was estimated at more than $9 billion through 2006. Proposals for direct foreign investment are considered by the Foreign Investment Promotion Board and generally receive government approval. Automatic approvals are available for investments involving up to 100% foreign equity, depending on the kind of industry. Foreign investment is particularly sought after in power generation, telecommunications, ports, roads, petroleum exploration/processing, and mining.

India's external debt was $155 billion in 2006-2007, up from $126 billion in 2005-2006. Foreign assistance was approximately $3 billion in 2006-2007, with the United States providing about $126 million in development assistance. The World Bank plans to double aid to India to almost $3 billion a year, with focus on infrastructure, education, health, and rural livelihoods.

Culture of India

2009-08-20T08:01:00.000-07:00

The term culture refers to a state of intellectual development or manners. The social and political forces that influence the growth of a human being is defined as culture.

Indian culture is rich and diverse and as a result unique in its very own way. Our manners, way of communicating with one another, etc are one of the important components of our culture. Even though we have accepted modern means of living, improved our lifestyle, our values and beliefs still remain unchanged. A person can change his way of clothing, way of eating and living but the rich values in a person always remains unchanged because they are deeply rooted within our hearts, mind, body and soul which we receive from our culture.

Indian culture treats guests as god and serves them and takes care of them as if they are a part and parcel of the family itself. Even though we don’t have anything to eat, the guests are never left hungry and are always looked after by the members of the family. Elders and the respect for elders is a major component in Indian culture. Elders are the driving force for any family and hence the love and respect for elders comes from within and is not artificial. An individual takes blessings from his elders by touching their feet. Elders drill and pass on the Indian culture within us as we grow.

“Respect one another” is another lesson that is taught from the books of Indian culture. All people are alike and respecting one another is ones duty. In foreign countries the relation between the boss and the employee is like a master and slave and is purely monetary whereas in Indian culture the relation between the boss and the employee is more like homely relations unlike foreign countries.

Helpful nature is another striking feature in our Indian culture. Right from our early days of childhood we are taught to help one another in need of help and distress. If not monetary then at least in kind or non-monetary ways. Indian culture tells us to multiply and distribute joy and happiness and share sadness and pain. It tells us that by all this we can develop co-operation and better living amongst ourselves and subsequently make this world a better place to live in.

History of India

2009-08-20T07:57:00.000-07:00

One of the great early civilizations made its home in the Indus River Valley around 2500 BC along the Indus River valley. Its great cities were Mohenjo-daro and Harappa. Nobody is quite sure what caused their decline. Then between 1500 and 200 BC, Aryan invaders from Central Asia came to India and pushed the original Dravidian inhabitants south.

Over the next few centuries, several kingdoms rose and fell in different parts of the country, including the Maurya kingdom and the Gupta empire. India was invaded by various people including the Huns and the Mongols. Most notable were the Muslim Ghurs in 1192, who brought the entire Gangetic basin under their control within 20 years. In the south, the mighty Hindu kingdom of Vijayanagar, and the fragmented Bahmani Islamic kingdom came to power.

The Mughal emperors defeated the Sultan of Delhi in 1525, and ushered in another artistic golden age. The Maratha Empire grew during the 17th century and gradually took over more of the Mughals' domain. The Marathas consolidated control of central India until they fell to the last great imperial power, the British.

The British established their power over India by 1803 and started using the country as a place to make money. Unlike the Mughals, they did not assimilate into the culture, nor did they think of the country as their own. The treated the local Indian people as ‘natives’. The Uprising (also known as the War of Independence) in northern India in 1857 was the first mark of protest.

By the turn of the 20th century, Indians had started opposing foreign rule in earnest. The struggle for freedom was fought on many fronts by many people across the country, most significant of them being Gandhi who adopted a policy of passive resistance, or satyagraha.

India finally attained independence on 15 August, 1947. Muslim parties had fought for a separate country all along and so the country was also divided to form the separate nation of Pakistan. When the dividing line was announced, the greatest exodus in human history took place as Muslims moved to Pakistan and Hindus and Sikhs relocated to India. Over 10 million people changed sides and even the most conservative estimates calculate that 250,000 people were killed.

In the years after independence, India struggled to grow its economy but finally started doing that only as recently as five years ago.

Attractive places in China

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The great wall of China

For any average traveler who visits China for the first time, the Great Wall is always an indispensable fixture on the itinerary. Without it, a trip to China would be incomplete. The reason is simple: it is one of China’s most important cultural and historical symbols. It is also one of the best known ancient constructions in the world. The massive project stretches from Shanghaiguan in the east to Jiayuguan in the west, a distance of over 6,300 kilometers, covering eight provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions.

The Great Wall was first built as a defense line against nomadic incursions. Its military and strategic importance was unmatched by any other projects in ancient China. The construction of the wall began around the 7th-4th century BC during the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476BC). At that time, feudal states built walls for self-defense against the invasion of nomadic tribes. In 221 BC, after unifying China, Qinshihuang, the first emperor of China, had the walls linked up, reinforced and extended to form the Great Wall. During succeeding dynasties in later years, renovations were made in line with local geographic conditions, creating many enchanting sights. It was listed by UNESCO as its World Heritage in 1987.

Shanhai Pass, east end of the Great Wall

Jiayu Pass, west end of the Great Wall

Shanghai Meuseum

Shanghai Museum was founded in 1952 and moved to its current modern building in 1994. It is a museum of ancient Chinese art, with a collection of 120,000 precious artworks of 21 categories. Its rich and high-quality collection of ancient Chinese bronze, ceramics, painting and calligraphy is specially celebrated in the world.

Shanghai Museum includes the following galleries and exhibition halls:
Ancient Chinese Bronze Gallery (Woo Po-Shing Gallery of Chinese Bronze)
Ancient Chinese Sculpture Gallery (K.L. Watt Gallery of Chinese Sculpture)
Ancient Chinese Ceramics Gallery (T.T. Tsui Gallery of Chinese Ceramics)
Chinese Painting Gallery (R.R. Shaw Gallery of Chinese Painting)
Chinese Calligraphy Gallery (D.C.W. Teh, C.Y. Chu, R.S.Q. Ku, C.L. Luk and M.C. Tung Gallery of Chinese Calligraphy)
Chinese Seal Gallery (Lincoln and Lillian Chin Gallery of Chinese Seals)
Chinese Ming and Qing Furniture Gallery (Chuang Tzeyuen & Chuang Tzekong Gallery of Ming and Qing Furniture)
Chinese Minority Nationalities' Art Gallery (The Kadoorie Gallery of Chinese Minority Nationalities' Art)
Chinese Coin Gallery (C.V. Starr Gallery of Chinese Coins)
Ancient Chinese Jade Gallery (Joseph E. Hotung Gallery of Chinese Jades)
Zande Lou Ceramics Gallery
No. 1 Exhibition Hall (S.C. Ko Exhibition Hall)
No. 2 Exhibition Hall (Dr. K.K. Leung Exhibition Hall)

Li River

A well-known part of the Guilin River, it flows from the Piled Festoon Hill to "Bilian Peak" in Yangshou, covering a distance of 83 kilometres. This green ribbon-like river runs zigzag through a multitude of hills against a backdrop of steep peaks, luxuriant flowers and green hills along the shores are mirrored in the blue water, giving the visitor a poetic inspiration. In drizzly days, the peaks embraced by clouds and mists and river.

Blanketed over by light fog make people feel like in a fairyland. Sailing from Yangdi downstream to the south, one will soon see a hill with nine peaks and steep precipices by the riverside. This is the "None Horse" Hill. Viewed from afar, it looks like a colourful mural, examined at a close distance; it presents a vivid image of nine horses in different postures: standing, drinking, neighing and galloping….In misty or rainy days, the image of the horses are even more vividly outlined as if they were galloping through a curtain of clouds and mists. As the old saying goes, "Since an ancient time a mountain is as beautiful as painting; at present day, a painting is just as pretty as a mountain". If one really wants to count the number of horses a folk ballad gives a hint:" a man who can find seven horses will come second in the highest imperial examination; a man who can see all nine horses well come first in the highest imperial examination."

Further trip downstream after a right turn well soon bring one to see swift currents and clusters of strange rock. Looking through the crystal-clear water, one will soon find a yellow stone plate at the bottom, like a piece of yellow cloth, hence the name "Yellow Cloth Shoal". Then, one will see along the shores seven peaks in various shapes like seven gentle and sweet young girls standing gracefully. The mirror-like river gives a clear reflection of the beautiful scenery. "I see the green peaks clearly mirrored in the river, yet, my boat sails through as if just over the peaks". The Famous "Reflection of the Yellow Cloth Shoal" is here. Further downstream, one will see "Xingping Scenery", Yangshou Landscape", etc. After making a sightseeing trip on the Lijiang River, a head of a foreign said: "I have been to many famous foreign cities; none of them is as beautiful as Guilin." Tourists say: "A visit to Guilin is incomplete without a trip on the Lijiang River".

Heavenly Lake

The Heavenly Lake (Tianchi Lake) is situated to the east of the Tianshan Mountain range, north of Bogda Peak, 97 km south of Urumqi.

Known as Yaochi in ancient times, the lake surface elevates 1,910 meters above sea level, with an average depth of 60 meters. Surrounding the Heavenly Lake are snow mountains, glacier forests and grassland alpine lakes, featuring a vertical natural landscape belt.

The snow line of Mt. Bogda is 3,860 meters above sea level, making it rich in glacier resource. Numerous super-glacial rivers formed by the melting snow and ice, ice bridges, ice mushrooms and ice fountains can be seen on the glaciers.

There are many super-glacial lakes and moraine lakes scattered in front of the glaciers. The vast expanse of mountain land and forests at the foot of Mount Bogada are also rich in plant and animal resources.

Resorts in China

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Bao Yue Lou

When you've had about as much as you can handle, find great deals booking a home at Bao Yue Lou, Nanjing. Vacation lodging at timeshares such as Bao Yue Lou provide affordable luxury.

This newly upgraded resort with more than 500 years old has been one of the main icon in Nanjing,China. The resort is located in the city centre, within the vincinity of the famous reserve park-Mochou Lake Park, facing the magnificent lake. From the resort, one can travel easily by car to other of the local attractions: Museum, Ancient Castle of Zhonghua, Confucian Temple, Xuan Wu Lake,Zhonghuamen Train Station and many others.

Please note that Bao Yue Lou and Vacation Timeshare and Rentals, LLC are independent of each other. The timeshares displayed below are classified ads placed by the timeshare owners themselves.

Dianchi Garden Hotel and Spa

When you're planning your next vacation, rent a timeshare unit at Dianchi Garden Hotel and Spa, Yunan. Timeshare rentals at Dianchi Garden Hotel and Spa offer an ideal option for those seeking something larger than a hotel room to retreat to at the end of the day.

Set in the most beautiful garden,the Dianchi Garden Hotel is the finest resort in Kunming, capital city of Yunnan. You'll feel completely relaxed the moment you enter the lofty lobby & hear the gentle sounds of water falling in the rock garden The hot spring is unique among the wide range of high quality facilities.Wake up to the wonderful sounds of birds singing & let the gentle breeze embrace you!Enjoy scenic view of Western Hill forest Park direct from the resort.The Yunan Nationalities Village & the Dianchi Lake Beach is within walking distance from the resort.Stone Forest is 2hrs drive away.

Please note that Dianchi Garden Hotel and Spa and Vacation Timeshare and Rentals, LLC are independent of each other. The timeshares displayed below are classified ads placed by the timeshare owners themselves.

Beijing North Garden (Taiwei) Hotel

If you’re planning a trip with that special someone, look at available timeshares to rent at Beijing North Garden (Taiwei) Hotel, Beijing. Spacious resort timeshares at Beijing North Garden (Taiwei) Hotel is a better choice than hotels.

Beijing North Garden is conveniently located in many of the recreation and entertainment center with magnificent nature scene in Xisanqi. It is adjacent to many famous scenic tourist spots,such as the Great Wall, the Ming tombs, Summer Palace, Lugonquiao, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and Tiananmen Square. It is conveniently located by subway and taxis to many well-known shopping flee markets. Elegantly in a European-style facade structure, the newly renovated 3-star North Garden Hotel offers fine dining at Chinese and Western restuarants.

Please note that Beijing North Garden (Taiwei) Hotel and Vacation Timeshare and Rentals, LLC are independent of each other. The timeshares displayed below are classified ads placed by the timeshare owners themselves.

Paradise Hill Hotel Zhuhai

When a special occasion is on the horizon, find great deals booking a home at Paradise Hill Hotel Zhuhai, Zhuhai. Timeshare homes like those offered at Paradise Hill Hotel Zhuhai is a better choice than hotels.

Paradise Hill Hotel Zhuhai, an oasis of tranquility in the beautiful coastal Garden City of Zhuhai, is located on a picturesque location overlooking the sea. The resort has 5 restaurants which has panoramic river views. Recreational facilities include a golf driving range, tennis courts, swimming pools, health & beauty centres, sauna, massage and Karaoke Club.

Please note that Paradise Hill Hotel Zhuhai and Vacation Timeshare and Rentals, LLC are independent of each other. The timeshares displayed below are classified ads placed by the timeshare owners themselves.

Cities of China

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Beijing

Beijing, Jing for short, is the nation's political, economic, cultural and educational center as well as China's most important center for international trade and communications. Together with Xian, Luoyang, Kaifeng, Nanjing and Hangzhou, Beijing is one of the six ancient cities in China. It has been the heart and soul of politics and society throughout its long history and consequently there is an unparalleled wealth of discovery to delight and intrigue travelers as they explore Beijing's ancient past and enjoy its exciting modern development.

As the capital of the People's Republic of China, Beijing is located in northern China, close to Tianjin Municipality and partially surrounded by Hebei Province. The city covers an area of more than 16,410 square kilometers (6,336 square miles) and has a population of 14.93 million people.

Beijing is a city with four distinct seasons. Its best is late spring and autumn. But autumn is taken as the golden tourist season of the year since there is sometimes in the spring of recent years, a yellow wind. We suggest tourists visit Beijing during the months of May, September, and October when people can enjoy bright sunshine and blue skies. An abundance of international class performances are presented in May. If you like winter, you will have other chances to appreciate another landscape of Beijing. After skiing in Beihai and viewing the snowy sights on West Hill, enjoying the steaming hotpot is the best choice, which is really the fun of tour in Beijing. Please keep warm and remember to bring your down garments and sweaters when you visit Beijing in the winter.

Shanghai

In China there is a saying that 'Xian has witnessed 2,000 years of history, Beijing has witnessed 1,000 years of history while Shanghai bears witness to the last 100 years.' For anyone who is interested in the history of modern China, Shanghai serves as an ideal starting point. Regarded as the 'Oriental Pearl', the city has a unique and important place in modern China and its rich heritage is worthy of exploration.

Shanghai, Hu for short, is situated on the estuary of Yangtze River, a position that led to frequently unwelcome intervention from foreigners seeking to impose their exports on the Empire during the nineteenth century. However, in the 1920s and the 1930s, Shanghai became an important international trade center. With its advantaged natural conditions, rapid development and splendid oriental culture, Shanghai was famed as the 'Oriental Paris' and attracted many entrepreneurs and established businesses. In addition, many foreign scientists, literary figures and artists chose to live, give lectures or just experience the Chinese charm in Shanghai. They included Albert Einstein, Bertrand Russell, Bernard Shaw and the poet RabindranathTagore, to name but a few. However, by the middle of the 20th century, the glory of the city was in decline.

Now over 300 of the world's top 500 enterprises have opened branches in Shanghai, while many have their research and development centers or headquarters there. Pudong New Area has developed in just five years, and Lujiazui in Pudong has become one of the foremost world class financial and trade zones in Asia. Skyscrapers such as Jinmao Tower and Shanghai Global Financial Center dominate the skyline, while landmark constructions like Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Pudong International Airport and Shanghai International Convention Center offer the finest and best of modern facilities.

These economic achievements are due to Shanghai's progress in the fields of politics, finance, trade, culture, science and technology. Various important international events have held in Shanghai, including political conventions, commercial conferences, academic forums, sports events, cultural exhibitions, film festivals and fashion shows.

Xian

Xian, the eternal city, records the great changes of the Chinese nation just like a living history book. Called Chang'an in ancient times, Xian is one of the birthplaces of the ancient civilization in the Yellow River Basin area of the country. During Xian's 3,100 year development, 13 dynasties such as Western Zhou (11th century BC - 771 BC), Qin (221 BC - 206 BC), Western Han (206 BC - 24 AD) and Tang (618 - 907) placed their capitals here. So far, Xian enjoys equal fame with Athens, Cairo, and Rome as one of the four major ancient civilization capitals.

Xian is the capital of Shaanxi province, located in the southern part of the Guanzhong Plain. With the Qinling Mountains to the south and the Weihe River to the north, it is in a favorable geographical location surrounded by water and hills. It has a semi-moist monsoon climate and there is a clear distinction between the four seasons. Except the colder winter, any season is relatively suitable for traveling.

The night life in Xian has a unique glamour. Traditional ways include enjoying the night scenery around the Bell Tower, taking part in a Tang Dynasty Dinner Show, strolling on the ancient Big Wild Goose Pagoda Square and watching the music fountain performance. More modern and fashionable ways include singing in the KTV, hanging out in a bar, or dancing in a Disco. All in all, any experience in this ancient city will bring you fun and possibly a little surprise.

Tibet

Tibet (Xizang), the Roof of the World, remained unknown to the world until the beginning of the 20th century. The massive, snowy land has exerted an awesome draw on travelers and adventurers ever since. Its majestic scenery, mysterious and exotic religious culture, and wonderful people, reward every tourist with an indelible life long memory!

Tibet (Tibet Autonomous Region, TAR for short) borders Xinjiang, Qinghai, Sichuan and Yunnan internally while India, Burma, Bhutan, Sikkim, and Nepal meet its external borders. It covers a massive 1,220,000 square kilometers (470,920 square miles), which is about 12.8 % of the whole of China. With an average height of 4,000 meters above sea level, Tibet is encompassed by some of the world's highest mountains. The Himalayas to the south, the Karakoram to the west, and the Kunlun to the north are the dream lands of all adventurers and mountaineers.

Guangzhou

Guangzhou is the capital city of Guangdong, and the center of its political, economic, scientific, educational and cultural life. Sui (Ears of Rice) is short for Guangzhou and the City of Ram (Yang Cheng) is also an alias of Guangzhou. The kapok is the city flower and the kapok tree is the city tree of Guangzhou.

Guangzhou is located in the middle south of Guangdong Province, north of the Pearl River Delta. It lies close to the South China Sea, Hong Kong, and Macau. Zhujiang (The Pearl River), the third largest river of China, runs through Guangzhou and is navigable to the South China Sea. Situated in such an excellent geographical region, Guangzhou is called China's South Gate.

Guangzhou is famous as a hometown for overseas Chinese. It boasts the largest population of overseas Chinese people. These overseas Chinese do a great deal of good for Guangzhou: opening international markets, bridging Guangzhou and the rest of the world, and establishing many schools, hospitals, nurseries, kindergartens and rest homes in Guangzhou.

Economy of China

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China’s economy is the third largest in the world, after the U.S. and Japan, and as the second largest trading nation, its influence on the world economy continues to grow. China’s entry into the World Trade Organization was monumental in ensuring its growth on the world stage. This topic covers news on economy of China, including government policies, industry sectors, movement of companies, trends, and macro- and microeconomic subjects.

China's Economy is part of Business Exchange, suggested by Wei Ma. This topic contains 1,110 news and 458 blog items. Read updated news, blogs, and resources about China's Economy. Find user-submitted articles and reactions on China's Economy from like-minded professionals.

Culture of China

2009-08-20T03:25:00.000-07:00

What is a culture? Is it characterized by art or literature? Does it include actions, feelings, or thoughts? Is it ideas, objectives, or ways? What about beliefs or values, or customs or tradition? Is it something as simple as a field of activity or as complex as a neverending experiment?

Culture is all of these, but it is true that it cannot be truly defined by a single stroke of words. In everyday conversation, the word culture might refer to such fields as literature, art, or music; yet scientists who study culture see it as something more complex, a way of life as well as acting, feelings, and thinking. And even within these "definitions" of culture there are different views on what exactly culture is.

Painting a Scene

So what exactly is culture? The answer depends on you. However, it is not what culture IS that makes it so important and fascinating; it is what it means and what it represents. A culture defines and sets something apart from everything else. It makes something unique and therefore meaningful, not only to itself but also to the diversity of the world. A culture brings awe and inspiration as well as interest and curiosity.

For thousands of years, the Culture of China has attracted and moved many people from all over the world, being so unique and one-of-a-kind as well as elegant and inspiring. The Chinese Culture, a culture that has evolved for thousands and thousands of years, contains rare beauty and enchantment with history. It has drawn so much interest that it is integrating with other cultures. Have you ever eaten fried noodles or kung po chicken at a local Chinese restaurant? Or have you ever seen the traditional style of the ch'i-p'ao used for blouses and dresses? You might have even watched Mulan, Disney's new animated film based on a Chinese folk tale. The Chinese Culture has played an important role in world society, and in China itself.

With such a long history and old-living civilization, the Culture of China offers much more than anything or anyone could possible receive. For any country, and especially China, it is impossible to explore every little aspect of its culture. However, this site contains and explains general areas of the Chinese Culture for you to explore, the areas that have touched and lived across the world, the areas that best define China.

History of China

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Prehistory
For more than a million years ago, China was used to be inhabited by Homo erectus. The archeological site of Xihoudu in the province of Shanxi shows the earliest use of fire. The Peking Man is considered to be the most popular case of the Homo erectus which was found in 1923. The Neolithic age in China started as early as 10,000 B.C. During this period, the Yellow River valley became a cultural center where villages were formed.

Ancient Era
This period includes the reign of the Xia Dynasty (believed to have started some 4,200 years ago), Shang Dynasty (the longest dynasty in Chinese history with 31 kings), Zhou Dynasty as well as the so called Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period (a time during the 5th century B.C. when 7 well-known states remained and battled each other).

Imperial Era
The Imperial Age shows the grandeur of the following dynasties – Qin (the Great Wall of China began its construction), Han (philosophy of Confucianism was embrace), Sui, Tang, Song, Yuan (first dynasty that rules entire China with Beijing as capital), Ming (last construction of the Great Wall was carried out) and the Qing (introduction of the “Eight Banners” system and formation of the most complete dictionary of Chinese characters) as well as the purported Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms (period of political disagreement between Tang and Song).

Modern Era
By the dawn of the 19th century, historical personalities like Sun Yat-sen (孫中山，孙中山), Chiang Kai-shek (蔣介石，蒋介石) and Mao Zedong (Mao Tse-tung, 毛澤東) played important roles in establishing the future People’s Republic of China (PRC). During the Long March, Mao Zedong reorganizes the communists during the Japanese invasions that ended in 1945. In October 1, 1949 the People’s Republic of China was proclaimed, with Taiwan once again politically separated from mainland China.

Resorts in Nepal

2009-08-18T05:57:00.000-07:00

Haatiban Resort

Haatiban Resort is the only one of its kind. It commands the most awesome view of the gloriously majestic Himalayas and the fabled city of Kathmandu. From dawn to dusk, the horizon is simply breattaking, adorned with some of the world's highest peaks stretching for miles from east to west with Ganesh Himal to Sagarmatha (Mt Everest). When evening sets in, the glittering city lights below, will make you understand why Kathmandu is also known as "the city of lustre"

Once attuned to the pace set at Haatiban, we invite you to take the enjoyable pony rides, mountain biking, nature walks and treks to Champa Devi Hill (2054 metre) or Khokana and the Bungamati region, for the real taste of the Himalayan sights and sound. A trip to the famous shrine of Goddess Kali at Dhakshinkali is an eye-opener to the religious practices of the locals.

Haatiban Resort is conceived to set a pace where the mind and body will be at harmony.

Haatiban Resort situated some 400m above the historic valley of Kathmandu with pine and fir trees amidst nature located just a 15 kms drive away from Kathmandu city.

Guests staying in Haatiban Resort has a choice of comfortable cottages with commanding views of the Himalayan ranges and the standard/deluxe rooms fully furnished with a d'ecor of ethnic beauty overlooking the Himalayas - from the Ganesh Himal Range all the way to Mt. Everest. Guests could enjoy the pony rides, mountain biking or just leisure stroll to visits the temple of Dakshinkali, Pharping Monastery, Champa Devi Hill and the ancient Villages of Khokana and Bungamati.

Balthali Village Resort

Standing on a plateau, just beyond panauti above 40 Km away from Kathmandu, is a small sleepy settlement of BalthaliVillage which rests at the junction of Roshi and Ladku Khola rivers. High above the southern ridge of this exceptional hamlet stands Balthali Village resort an outstanding place of isolation and relaxation amidst a surround of typical Nepali countryside with terraced rice fields and ochre thatched farm houses. With snowy peaks of Dorjee Lhakpa, langtang and whole range of mountain rests clear and bright on the northern horizon. Whist the backyard is dominated by high hills of lush green Maharabharat Range which makes Balthali Village resort- a perfect place for solitude and thento relax midst countryside where time stands still, unperturbed, almost like the middle ages. this is a place to rediscover what nature does to your soul.............

Balthali Village resort is certainly not an ordinary place as many hotels and resorts have mushroomed extensively over the years. It is a very simple, unconventional, yet comfortable retreat centre with full modern amenitiwes of 14 doubled rooms with western style toilets and attached bath rooms, hot and cold shower flows freely and tasty Nepalese and continential cuisine is served at the large, roomy restaurant by the friendly, smiling local staff. The bar is fully stocked with local wines and native brews.

The area surrounding the Balthali Retreat is thickly forested with lixuriant growth of various floras. colorful rhododendron, mangolia and sal trees cover the hill that undulates and opens out to terrace fields.

After dusk a myriad of flickering lights below the valley of Balthali Village resort comes alive.Nature lovers and bird watchers can spend days exploring and discovering some exceptional species of wildlife, tradition and culture untouched by modernity. This 'off the beaten location' has endless trials leading to some ethnic tribes thus, offering excellent short hikes and mountain biking on the easy trials. Many of the sacred and ancient temples and monasteries such as Namo Buddha, Indreshwar mahadev, Brahmayani Temples are located in this region and still needs to be discovered and unviel its mysterious past.

There are a number of escellent short and long hikes from a day to 5 days within Balthali Village Resort and its surrounding gives you ample oppurtinity and time to explore this quaint natural heaven.

Godawai Village Resort

Godavari Village Resort is located just 7kms from Kathmandu city and 14kms from the International airport-far from the madding crowd, spread over 14 acres of lush green terrain the Resort boasts of 68 well appointed deluxe rooms of international standards with modern amenities. Traditionally styled cottages and buildings overlooking terraced rice fields and fantastic view of the great Himalayan range.

Godavari Village Resort is the ideal 'getaway' resort. One of the most popular activities for guests here is actually doing nothing! Relaxing by the pool and sipping a cool drink or watching the snowy himalayan peaks or the green terraced rice fields with a meandering stream is idyllic pleasure for most guests. However more strenuous activities like swimming, snooker, jacuzzi, sauna, tennis, skittle alley and mountain biking are available for guests.

Gokarna Forest Golf Resort and Spa

Just 30 minutes from the city centre of Kathmandu, capital of Nepal, is Le Meridien Kathmandu Gokarna Forest Golf Resort & Spa - ideally located in the 470 acre Gokarna Forest which was once the private hunting grounds of the Nepalese kings.

The serene setting of Le Meridien Kathmandu Gokarna Forest Golf Resort & Spa is overwhelming - deer and monkeys roam freely in this enchanting sanctuary. Activities on offer include jungle walks, secluded picnics and bird watching. Guests can also discover many local holy places of worship within the Gokarna forest.

For relaxation and pampering, guests can visit the resort's Harmony Spa, which combines therapeutic care in a natural environment and overlooks the lush valley below.

Golfers will be amazed by the resort's outstanding 18-hole golf course. Set against the backdrop of the snow capped Himalayas, the golf course was designed by Gleneagles Golf Developments and boasts the only Bent Grass Greens in South Asia making it one of the highlights of the professional circuits in the region.

Other leisure options include an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam, jacuzzi and the best equipped gym in Nepal.

Le Meridien Kathmandu Gokarna Forest Golf Resort & Spa offers 55 deluxe rooms and suites, an international cuisine restaurant, a Club house restaurant and two bars.

For business and leisure events, the resort offers conference and banquet facilities for up to 150 people.

Cities and Picnic Spots in Nepal

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Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur is in many ways the most medieval of the three major cities in the Kathmandu valley. Much of its glorious architecture dates from the end of the 17th century. The city is famous for its pagoda-style architecture. Tourists are more often attracted to the Hindu temples, pottery crafts, colourful markets and lively people of Bhaktapur.

Bhaktapur, as the names suggests, is a holy city with pagoda-style temples.
Bhaktapur is the third largest city in the Kathmandu valley.
Bhaktapur is also known by woodcarving artists, for it's cap known as Bhadgaon Topi, and for it's curd known by Nepalese as the `Bhaktapur ko Dahe' (meaning Curd made in Bhaktapur).
The markets in the city are very lively and colourful.
Places to Visit
Durbar Square
As you walk in, you cannot but be overcome by a feeling of inner harmony. Such is the art and architecture and the spacial layout here. The 15th-century Palace of 55 Windows, situated to the left as you enter through the city gate, inspires admiration. The National Art Gallery is also housed inside. The palace entrance, the Golden Gate, is a masterpiece in repousse art. In front of the palace building is a medley of temples of various designs. There is an entrance fee of Rs. 30 for SAARC nationals and Rs. 500 for other foreign visitors.

Taumadhi Square
It lies to the east of Durbar Square reached by a narrow brick-paved lane. The towering five-roofed Nyatapol temple presides over the square. The monument gracefully soars into the sky atop a five-story plinth. The stairway leading up to the temple is flanked by stone figures of deities and mythical beasts, each 10 times more powerful than the one immediately below.

Dattatreya Square
It takes its name from the Dattatreya temple dedicated to a three-headed combination of the Hindu deities Brahma, Bishnu and Shiva. If you want to experience the feel of the traditional urban layout of Bhaktapur, Dattatreya Square is it. Set in a maze of streets lined with richly ornamented houses, the square is famed for its many ornate Hindu monasteries known as Math. The National Woodworking Museum is also housed here. The Brass and Bronze Museum is across the street.

Potter’s Square
A two-minute walk south of Durbar Square brings you to Bolachhen, also known as Potter’s Square because of the many potters seen here moulding wet clay into different kinds of earthen ware. It has a display of fresh pottery left out to dry in the open square. This place can be approached from Taumadhi Square also. The elephant-headed Lord Ganesh is the patron of potters, thus the Jeth Ganesh temple in the square.

Siddha Pukhu
Siddha Pukhu, a pond dating back to the Lichhavi period, is better known as Ta-Pukhu, meaning big pond. Though situated right at the bus stop, it provides a serene atmosphere with its sashaying fish and the stone images of different Hindu and Buddhist gods.

Surya Binayak
Surya Binayak is one of Kathmandu’s most popular pilgrimage spots. Situated in a thick forest to the south of Bhaktapur, it is a 20-minute walk from the trolley bus terminal. The temple, dedicated to the Hindu deity Ganesh, is crowded with devotees especially on sunday.

Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is the largest city in the country. Nepal capital city is in shape of Khukuri knife and its glorious history dates back to two thousand years. Located in the bowl shaped Kathmandu Valley, the city is the cultural hub of the country and probably the most sought after tourist destination. The home town of Newaras is the meeting point of various ethnic groups.

Kathmandu city is the conjecture to the major routes within and outside the country. Most of the trekking expeditions and tours start from Kathmandu. The city itself is home to the historical monuments, cultural groups, architectural wonders and exotic tourist destinations. The famous durbar squares of Kathmandu are world famous and the Kathmandu valley is a Cultural World Heritage site listed by UNESCO in 1979.
Hanuman Dhoka (Durbar Square)
The square is the complex of palaces, courtyards and temples that are built between the 12th and the 18th centuries by the ancient Malla Kings of Nepal. It is the social, religious and urban focal point of the city. Taleju Temple, Kal Bhairab (God of Destruction), Nautalle Durbar, Coronation Nasal Chowk, the Gaddi Baithak, the statue of King Pratap Malla, the Big Bell, Big Drum and the Jagnnath Temple are some of the interesting things to see in this Square.

Swayambhunath Stupa
Also known as the monkey temple, the Buddhist temple of Swayambhunath is situated on the top of a hill, west to Kathmandu. The temple is considered to be one of the most popular, holiest and instantly recognizable symbols of Nepal. Large tribes of monkeys can be seen inside and around the temple. The golden spire of Swayambhunath stupa crowns a wooded hillock and offers a commanding view of Kathmandu city. This is one of the world's most glorious Buddhist Chaityas.

Boudhanath Stupa
The biggest stupa in Nepal is situated 7 km east to Kathmandu. Boudhanath Stupa looms 36 meters high and presents one of the most fascinating specimens of stupa design. There are more than 45 Buddhist monasteries in the area. The Bouddhanath stupa is also known as Khasti Chitya and is considered as one of the oldest stupas in the country.

Balaju Water Garden
The beautiful Balaju Water Garden is a famous tourist destination. It is situated below the Nagarjun Hill, about 5 km narthwest of akthmandu. The garden has an exotic bank with 22 stone waterspouts, carved in the shape of sea-dragons. The water garden also consists of religious shrines, fishponds and a replica of the statue of Budhanilkantha. The swimming pool inside the park attract a lot of tourists.

Budhanilkantha
This is one of the masterpieces of stone sculptures of Lichchhavi period. This 5th century statue is in the middle of a small pond and seems to float in water. The Budhanilkantha temple consists of a pond in which lies a great stone figure of the Hindu god Vishnu reclining on the coils of a cosmic serpent. The huge statue of sleeping Vishnu is believed to be carved from the single block of black stone of a type not found in the valley. It is believed that ages before the two hardworking farmers (husband and wife) discovered the statue when they were ploughing their field.

Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath Temple, with its astonishing architectural beauty, stands as a symbol of faith, religion, culture and tradition. Regarded as the most sacred temple of Hindu Lord Shiva in the world, Pashupatinath temple's existence dates back to 400 A.D. The richly-ornamented pagoda houses the sacred linga or phallic symbol of Lord Shiva. Thousands of pilgrims from all over the world come to pay homage to this temple, that is also known as the temple of living beings. The Pashupatinath Temple is the pride of Kathmandu.

Narayanhity Durbar
It was the Royal Palace of the Late King, His Majesty King Birendra Bir Bikram Shahdev of Nepal. The Shah kings moved to this palace from their old palace in the late 18th century. The new edifice was inaugurated in 1970 on the occasion of the wedding of His Majesty king Birendra Bir Bikram Shahdev. The palace takes its name from the Narayanhiti, a famous historic waterspout situated at the southern corner of the Palace. The Palace compound is immense, surrounded by high walls and guarded by soldiers.

Pokhara

Pokhara, the city of lakes, is blessed with extreme natural beauty. It is located at an altitude of 827m, 200 km west to Kathmandu valley. The city is famous for the adventure opportunities it offers that include sightseeing, white water rafting, kayaking and mountaineering.
The Fewa (or Phewa) Lake
Phewa Lake, majestic in stretch and beauty, is the second largest lake of Nepal. Foremost attraction in the lake is the pagoda style temple which holds the shrine of Barahi or Water Goddess. Another attraction is the amazing image of Mt. Machhapuchhre and Annapurna in the clear water of the lake. One is advised to view the south-eastern side of Phewa lake for it has the best views. Tourists can also indulge in activities like fishing and canoeing. Several varities of fish can be found in the lake. Nearby forest is the residence of numerous animals and birds.

Begnas Lake
Begnas Lake, the second largest lake of Pokhara Valley, is 13 km away from Pokhara. The lake is a nice destination for the tourists who want to pass some time in seclusion. They can indulge in activities like boating and fishing.Nearby jungle is the residence of more than 150 dpecies of birds. Water fowls can be observed from the northern part of the lake.

Gupteshwar Cave
Gupteshwar Cave or Gupreswar Gupha, considered sacrosanct by the locals, is 2 km from Pokhara airport. The 3km long cave has some large hall-like rooms and some passages where one is forced to crawl. A Shivalinga, phallic symbol if Hindu Lord Shiva, is preserved in the cave.

Davis Fall
One of the most famous tourist attractions in Pokhara is Davis Falls. Source of water in Davis Fall or Patale Chango (in Nepali) is Phewa Lake. The Fall looks very impressive specially during the rainy season. There is also a cave near the falls.

Mahendra Cave
A popular Pokhara tourist destination, Mahendra Cave has been named after the late King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev. The cave has been fitted with lighting system for convenience of the tourists. Mahendra Cave is known for its rock types and stones that glitter when a beam of light hits them.

Around Pokhara
Many popular trekking routes in the region start and end in Pokhara. Longer treks, which stretch for one to three week, like Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Sanctuary and Jomsom Trek commence in Pokhara.

Nepalgunj

The Western border town of Nepal, Nepalgunj is famous for the exciting treks to the Dopolo plateau and Jumla region. Known as the industrial and transport hub of the country, Nepalgunj has various attractions: Gharbaritole, Ganeshpur and Sadar Line to name a few. The border crossing, 6 km south of Nepalganj, is one of a limited number of places where non-Indian foreigners are allowed to cross the border with India.

Major Tourist Attractions
The multi lingual and multi ethnic city of Nepalgunj welcomes visitors to explore the other side of this industrial city. Nepalgunj offers a relaxing atmosphere to the tourists heading toward other destinations in Nepal. The following the main attractions of Nepalgunj.

» Gharbaritole
» Ganeshpur
» Sadar Line
» Koreanpur
» Belaspur
» B.P. Chowk
» Mini Zoo
» Muslim Bazar
» Indian Border Crossing
» Rapti River

Economy of Nepal

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There is nothing much to talk about when it comes to Nepalese economy. The data doesn't paint a rosy picture at all. In fact the picture looks grim. Nepal is among the poorest and least developed countries in the world. In fact Nepal doesn't stand anywhere to its otherwise developing neighbors such as India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Thanks to the Sub-Sahara African countries, it is not considered the poorest economy now. Nevertheless, with almost 45% of its population living below the poverty line, Nepal has to do much catching before being termed a Developing Economy.

Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy, providing a livelihood for three-fourths of the population and accounting for 38% of GDP. Most of the agriculture activities take place in the Tarai region. The sub-standard equipments and pesticides along with the medieval mode of agriculture make it a tough affair. The industrial sector is in a dismal condition. Industrial activity mainly involves the processing of agricultural products including jute, sugarcane, tobacco, and grain. These things are hardly considered industrial activities by New-school economists.

Due to its long stint with monarchy and feudalism, Nepal has one of the most uneven distributions of resources and wealth in the Asia. This has led to the birth of counter initiative movements such as Maoism. Security concerns relating to the Maoist conflict and counter insurgency initiatives have led to a decrease in tourism, a key source of foreign exchange. Nepal has considerable scope for exploiting its potential in hydropower and tourism. These are considered the up coming hot cakes in New-wave economy. Prospects for foreign trade or investment in other sectors will remain poor, however. There are lots of reasons for this such as the small size of the economy, technological backwardness, landlocked geographic location, civil strife and its susceptibility to natural disaster

Culture of Nepal

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Nepal's culture is greatly influenced by its music, architecture, religion and literature. Your first sight of Nepal may leave you speechless, the great quantities of temples, churches, monasteries and other religious buildings, the hurly-burly in the streets and the number of people and animals socializing on every corner of the narrow cobble-stone lanes.

Nepal has about thirty-six different ethnic groups and multiple religions and languages. Its music is similarly varied, with pop, religious, classical and folk music being popular. Musical genres from Tibet and Hindustan have greatly influenced Nepalese music. Usually, women, even of the musician castes, do not play music except for specific situations, such as at the traditional all-female wedding parties.

The architecture of Nepal is another art that has become an important part of the country's culture. Nepal's architecture can be divided into three broad groups, the stupa style, the pagoda style and the shikhara style.

Nepal is constitutionally a Hindu kingdom with legal provisions of no prejudice against other religions. The Hindu inhabitants in the country has been constantly over 80 percent since the 1950s. The second largest religion of Nepal is Buddhism, it is practiced by about 11 percent, while Islam comprises of about 4.2 percent of the population. The Kirat religion makes up nearly 3.6 percent of the population.

Nepal has many customs and beliefs that might be difficult to understand and not so easy to obey but this is the way of life to them and you should respect it when you are in their territory.

Do not feel offended if any Nepalese hesitates to shake hands with you because it hasn't been very long since the western traditions were introduced to them. Most Nepalese greet one another by a “Namaste”, a common act done by putting the palms together in a prayer like gesture.

It is customary to eat and deal with food with your right hand. They use their left hand to wash themselves after being to the toilet. Note that most Nepalese eat with their hands, forks and spoons are not very common.

Note that men and woman should always dress appropriately. Men should not walk or trek bare-chested, shorts are acceptable but it's recommended to rather wear long pants. Women are recommended to wear long skirts that cover the ankles, because exposure of a woman's legs can draw unnecessary attention.

Showing affection between men and woman in public is not acceptable. So avoid kissing, hugging, cuddling or even holding hands in public

History of Nepal

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Newars are thought to have lived in the Nepal Valley since the 4th century AD, developing a Hindu-Buddhist culture. The Gurkha principality was later established by RAJPUT warriors from India, and in 1769 they conquered lands beyond the present-day borders of Nepal. After incursions into northern India in which the Gurkhas were defeated, Nepal lost part of its territory to British India but retained its independence and enjoyed close ties with the British.It has maintained its close association with India since the latter gained independence in 1947.

Nepal, the world's only Hindu monarchy, was controlled by a hereditary prime ministership until 1951. The nation's first election was held in 1959, but in 1960, King Mahendra dismissed the cabinet, dissolved parliament, and banned political parties. A 1962 constitution created a nonparty panchayat (council) system of government. After a 1980 referendum approved a modified version of the panchayat system, direct parliamentary elections were held in 1981. A dispute with India led to India's closing of most border crossings from March 1989 to July 1990, and the resultant economic crisis fueled demands for political reform. After months of violence, King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev dissolved parliament. The opposition formed an interim government in April 1990, and a new constitution creating a constitutional monarchy and a bicameral legislature became effective on Nov. 9, 1990. Multiparty legislative elections held in May 1991 were won by the centrist Nepali Congress party; the Communists became the leading opposition party. Mid-term elections in November 1994, which were called after the government lost a parliamentary vote, resulted in a hung parliament and the communists, who emerged as the single largest party, formed a minority government.

Source: Grolier's Encyclopedia

Resorts in Norway

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Beitostolen, Norway

Beitostolen lies on the edge of the beautiful Jotunheimen National Park, just 40km north west of Fagernes, which means a short transfer of just 45 minutes. It is a compact, friendly ski resort with a choice of accommodation situated around the ski base, literally metres away from the slopes and resort facilities. The ski area has an excellent snow record (from November to May) and offers gentle, uncrowded slopes ideally suited to beginners and families who’ll benefit from learning in a safe, confidence-building environment. There is a good choice of other winter activities such as dog sledding and snowmobiling on offer, plus organised family-orientated activities everyday from 3pm so even the smallest family members can experience more than just skiing or snowboarding.

This compact resort of Beitostolen is situated around the base of the ski area. With all the resort facilities within easy walking distance, guests will find it extremely hassle-free to get around. For a small village, there is a surprising number of restaurants, bars and shops to choose from, plus a supermarket and bakery, all housed in attractive wooden cabins. Après ski tends to be low key during the week in one of the four bars in resort, but livens up on weekends and during public holidays when live bands often play. Off the slopes, there are plenty of activities to choose from and during the winter, organised family activities every day, geared towards parents and children.

Hotel Fleischers voss

Hotel Fleischers, Voss

Built in 1889, Fleischer’s is one of Norway’s premier family-run ‘Historical Hotels’, combining a scenic lakeside location with a welcoming atmosphere, excellent amenities, attentive service and first class cuisine. Beautiful wood-panelling and elegant decor ensure much of the original charm and atmosphere is retained.

Features - Hotel Fleischers, Voss

Indoor swimming pool and sauna (free)
jacuzzi & solarium (coin-op).
Comfortable lounges
games room
piano bar
child playroom
coin-op laundry
lifts.

Accommodation - Hotel Fleischers, Voss

115 rooms:

Standard rooms have bath or shower, wc, phone, sat. TV, hairdryer and minibar (most with guaranteed lake view).
No single room supplement during periods 1.1-13.2 and 7.3-27.3.
Beautifully furnished Deluxe Rooms all have lake view, sitting area, bathrobes, kettle and iron.

Meals - Hotel Fleischers, Voss

Extensive hot & cold buffet breakfast.
Excellent 3 course served dinner or buffet or 85 NOK credit towards à la carte men.

Clarion Hotel Royal Christiania

One of Oslo´s most modern hotels, the Clarion Hotel Royal Christiania has newly refurbished guest rooms and is close to most major tourist attractions.

The Akershus Fortress, National Gallery, Oslo Cathedral and the Royal Palace are just a short walk from Royal Christiania.

Clarion Hotel Royal Christiania also offers guests the use of the pool, steam bath and sauna until 22.00 each day while the SPA is open from Wednesday to Saturday between 10 and 18.

Hotel Rooms: 508. Hotel Chain: Clarion.

Rica Hotel Bergen

Located in the heart of Bergen, Rica Hotel Bergen is beautifully situated in the historic brick building of Tornøgården.

The modern guest rooms were renovated in 2008 and are now tastefully decorated.

Rica Hotel Bergen is only a short walk from the fish market and Bryggen.

Hotel Rooms: 159. Hotel Chain: Rica Hotels.

Myhregaarden Hotel

At this boutique hotel each elegant room has its own fireplace. Enjoy high class interiors and excellent comfort in an urban environment, close to Stavanger city centre.

Situated near to both the sea and shops, museums and cathedrals, Myhregaarden Hotel offers relaxation and easy accessibility to activities. All local transport options are located close by.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and at Myhregaarden guests are certain to get a tasty start with the buffet, created from the best local ingredients. Every morning home made bread is offered.

Attractive places in Norway

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Arboretum and Botanical Garden at Milde

The Arboretum was founded in 1971, occupies an area of 125 acres, part of which is planted with a variety of foreign trees and shrubs. Arboretum Milde is the most beautiful place to visit when Rhododendron comes to flower in May / June and when the Rosarium is at it's best in July / August. The area is very attractive with hills, rocky gorges, a small lake and a shoreline of several Kilometers. Good possibilities for walking in wooded surroundings and swimming.

Haakon's Hall

The largest and most imposing building of the royal residency in the 13th-century.

Håkon's Hall has taken its name from its first builder, King Håkon Håkonsson, and was erected between 1247 and 1261. In the latter year it was in use as "The Stone Hall" at the wedding and coronation of King Magnus Lagabøte (the Lawmender), Håkon's son and co-ruler. The hall was the largest and most imposing building in the royal residence at "Holmen" (the holm), the political centre of the 13th-century Norwegian kingdom. It was obviously built for the great occasions in the history of the monarchy and the realm, but also for practical daily use.

From the late Middle Ages onwards, Norway was without a resident monarchy, and the original functions of the hall lapsed. At about 1520 it was used for storage purposes. It was allowed to stand roofless during part of the 17th century, but sometime around 1680 it was refitted as the storehouse of Bergenhus Castle. It was precisely this storage function which allowed it to survive under various roof-forms, until, about 1840, it was rediscovered for what it had originally been.

The hall was restored in 1880-95 and richly decorated in 1910-16. In 1944 a German ammunition ship exploded in the harbor just below. The Hall caught fire, and was so damaged that only the walls remained. The present internal equipment of the building is the result of the following restoration. The walls are standing much as they stood after the restoration of 1880-95, but the stonework has been relieved of plaster. The Hall is again in ceremonial use on important occasions, and is also used for concerts.

With its base of 37 x 16,4 m and its three floors, the Hall is the largest secular medieval building still standing in Norway. It was built of local stone, and the corners, window and door casings were of worked soapstone. Its closest parallels were probably contemporary Gothic stone halls in England.

The original main entrance was obviously through the upper doorway in the south gable end, leading into the great hall. Access to this entrance was apparently gained by way of external wooden galleries and staircases. Today a new, covered staircase, used as the royal entrance, leads up from the palace yard. The public entrance is through a side building and further up to a new opening in the east wall of the great hall. From this passage one may also descend to the two lower floors of the Hall, each divided into three rooms.

Mount Floyen and the Funicular (Floybanen)

Magnificent views over the surroundings islands. Numerous paths offer easy walks through beautiful woodland terrain.

If you're looking for one of the best view over the city you should include a trip on famous Funicular. It will take you from the city center to the top of the Mount Floyen. Then you'll be 320 meters above sea level (1050 ft). Check out the magnificent views over the surroundings islands. Numerous paths offer easy walks through beautiful woodland terrain with lakes and mountains. During the summer the restaurant on top of Mount Floyen is open daily. The kiosk and souvenir shop is open all year. The Funicular Lower Station is situated 150 meters from the Fish Market.

Situated in the center of Bergen, walking distance from the Fish Market. Departures on the hour and every half hour from early morning to 11 PM, from May to August till Midnight. Extra departures when necessary. This funicular railway is also known as 'Floibanen' and 'Fløibanen' and 'Fløybanen'.

The Barque Statsraad Lehmkuhl / Cruise

Norway's oldest and largest sailing wessel.

The Barque 'Statsraad Lehmkuhl' is from Bergen. It is a three masted Barque, launched in 1914. She is Norway's oldest and largest sailing wessel.

Facts about Statsraad Lehmkuhl;
Length of hull: 259 ft
Height of rig: 158 ft
Sail area: 2000 sq. meters
Keel depth: 18 ft
Crew: 125 (100 trainees)
BRT: 1701 tons.

Bergen was a host for The Cutty Sark Tall Ships' Race in 1993 and 2001. Fullriggers, barques, briggs, schooners, ketches and cutters, ships with tall masts and bowspirits. Tremendous successes.

Sail Cruises
Imagine yourself, at the helm of the largest three-masted barque or helping to set more than 2000m2 of sail in less than one hour! You need no sailing experience beforehand; professional seamen will train you while you are aboard.

The «Statsraad Lehmkuhl» is not a passenger ship.
You come aboard as a trainee sailor, which means that you participate in the activities of the ship. You’ll be on duty alongside professional seamen – doing anything from being on watch or steering the ship, to working in the galley. The maritime traditions are kept active, especially the sail manoeuvres. For many people, going aloft up the rigging to furl or unfurl sails is one of the most exiting things on board. But this is absolutely voluntary. And there might be time for some shanty singing and a course in tying knots.

Cities of Norway

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Oslo

Oslo is one of the largest cities and has been the capital of Norway since 1814. The name of the city has changed from time to time as it was called Christiania from 1624 to 1878, and Kristiania from 1878 to 1924.

Oslo first founded its own municipality in 1837 and after its separation from the county of Akershus in 1842, a county of its own was formed. Oslo is the third largest Scandinavian city after Copenhagen and Stockholm. The Royal Family of Norway, the Government and the Parliament are also based in Oslo.

The city is located at the head of Oslo Fjord and therefore is surrounded by a lot of greenery and woody hills. For those who love hiking, trekking and other outdoor activities, the city is the best place to be in. All the attractions are nearby to each other and most of the parks are within a walking distance of ten minutes.

During the winter season, one can access all the eight ski centres in the city, or for the more adventurous individuals there are hundreds of kilometres of cross country trails in the snow covered forests and mountains. In 2007, the Reader’s Digest ranked Oslo number two on a list of the world's greenest and best cities to live in.

The city offers plenty of attractions, large shopping malls displaying the latest fashion and a wide range of restaurants serving the most delectable cuisines. Many opportunities and countless choices are what make the lively city of Oslo a desirable holiday destination.

Stavanger

Start your city ramble at the Breiavatnet lake, the city's radiant eye and in former times the city's great meeting place where people went skating in winter and fishing in summer.

Having taken the path round the lake, we recommend a visit to Stavanger's beautiful cathedral dating from 1125. The original church was built in the Norman style and, of all Norwegian medieval churches, it is the only one to have preserved its original design.

Cross Domkirkeplassen (cathedral square) and follow the cobbled Kirkegaten up to the Valberg tower. In former times, the tower was the highest point in the city and in 1853 the town wathmen started to use it as a watchtower to warn of fires.

You can go down the hill from the Valberg tower to Strandkaien and wander past the old waterfront warehouses. Nowadays, there are 60 of these waterfront warehouses remaining of an original total of 250 buildings.

Continue your ramble across the market square past the statue of the author Aleksander L. Kielland. Kielland liked to dress very elegant and always wore a hat and cape and carried a cane - an aspect of Kielland that the sculptor Magnus Vigrestad has succeeded in capturing.

Cross Rosenkildetorget and finish your ramble in Old Stavanger, where you will find Northern Europe's biggest and best-preserved concentration of wooden houses. More than 170 houses were built at the end of the 18th and beginning of the 19th century, and they are still in use as houses, art galleries and studios.

Bergen

Blessed with a spectacular, setting, Bergen is nestled beneath seven strategic hills and surrounded by picturesque fjords (narrow inlets). Founded in the eleventh century – and once home to Norway's Royal family – Bergen is now the second-largest city in the country. This scenic port town is divided into two main parts: Bryggen, the old city, is on UNESCO's World Heritage List, and the modern city, which contains many of Bergen's commercial and cultural attractions. Visitors should check out Bergenhus, the old medieval fortress; Torget, home of the bustling fish market (Fisketorget); Rosencrantz Tower, a fortified thirteenth century residence; Bryggens Museum, which recreates medieval life; and Bergen Aquarium, which is one of the best aquariums in Europe. A word to the wise – bring an umbrella when you visit because Bergen receives over 200 days of rain annually.

Economy of Norway

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Almost three quarters of Norway's land is unproductive; less than 4% is under cultivation and the country imports over 50% of its food. The vast mountain pastures are used for the grazing of cattle and sheep, and, in the north, for reindeer raising. Barley, wheat, and potatoes are grown. About one quarter of Norway is forested; timber is a chief natural resource and is the basis for one of the main industries. The beautiful Norwegian fjords and the midnight sun of the far north attract many tourists. Fishing (notably of cod, herring, and mackerel) is important, and fresh, canned, and salted fish are exported.

The country's chief industries are petroleum and natural gas production, shipping, and trading. Since the discovery of petroleum in the Ekofisk field in 1969, the petroleum and natural gas industries have become vital to Norway's economy, bringing increased employment, but also increased inflation and a vulnerability to fluctuations in the world petroleum market (most of the oil and gas is exported). Other mineral resources include iron ore, copper, lead, zinc, titanium, pyrites, and nickel. Aluminum, ferroalloys, and semifinished steel are produced. Almost all of Norway's electricity is supplied by hydroelectric power, and the country exports hydroelectricity as well. Food processing, shipbuilding, and the manufacture of pulp and paper products, metals, chemicals, and textiles are important to the economy. The great Norwegian merchant fleet carries a large part of the world's trade. Petroleum and petroleum products, machinery and equipment, metals, chemicals, ships, and fish are the main exports; imports include capital goods, chemicals, metals, and foodstuffs. The chief trading partners are Great Britain, Germany, Sweden, and France.

Culture of Norway

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Norway is a young nation with a long history, especially as a maritime nation. In spite of being joined to Denmark for 400 years, Norway retained a strong cultural tradition of its own, which, together with cultural impulses from abroad, produced its own unique diversity. This can be seen not only in museums and galleries, but also in the landscape.

In addition to its music, literature and art, Norwegian culture is evident in the traditional national costumes, or bunads, which are worn with pride on special occasions such as weddings, christenings and of course on 17 May, the Norwegian national day.

The Saami are the indigenous people of Norway and are today a minority group. They have their own parliament and live mainly in the county of Finnmark in northern Norway. The Saami people traditionally make their living from reindeer herding, hunting and fishing. They are proud of their heritage and produce beautiful arts and crafts.

History of Norway

2009-08-18T00:55:00.000-07:00

Norwegians, like the Danes and Swedes, are of Teutonic origin. The Norsemen, also known as Vikings, ravaged the coasts of northwest Europe from the 8th to the 11th century and were ruled by local chieftains. Olaf II Haraldsson became the first effective king of all Norway in 1015 and began converting the Norwegians to Christianity. After 1442, Norway was ruled by Danish kings until 1814, when it was united with Sweden—although retaining a degree of independence and receiving a new constitution—in an uneasy partnership. In 1905, the Norwegian parliament arranged a peaceful separation and invited a Danish prince to the Norwegian throne—King Haakon VII. A treaty with Sweden provided that all disputes be settled by arbitration and that no fortifications be erected on the common frontier.

The World Wars and 20th Century Norwegian Politics

When World War I broke out, Norway joined Sweden and Denmark in a decision to remain neutral and to cooperate in the joint interest of the three countries. In World War II, Norway was invaded by the Germans on April 9, 1940. It resisted for two months before the Nazis took complete control. King Haakon and his government fled to London, where they established a government-in-exile. Maj. Vidkun Quisling, who served as Norway's prime minister during the war, was the most notorious of the Nazi collaborators. The word for traitor, quisling, bears his name. He was executed by the Norwegians on Oct. 24, 1945. Despite severe losses in the war, Norway recovered quickly as its economy expanded. It joined NATO in 1949.

In the late 20th century, the Labor Party and the Conservative Party seesawed for control, each sometimes having to lead minority governments. An important debate was over Norway's membership in the European Union. In an advisory referendum held in Nov. 1994, voters rejected seeking membership for their nation in the EU. The country became the second-largest oil exporter after Saudi Arabia in 1995. Norway continued to experience rapid economic growth into the new millennium.

Politics In the 21st Century

In March 2000, Prime Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik resigned after Parliament voted to build the country's first gas-fired power stations. Bondevik had objected to the project, asserting that the plants would emit too much carbon dioxide. Labor Party leader Jens Stoltenberg succeeded Bondevik. Stoltenberg and the Labor Party were defeated in Sept. 2001 elections, and no party emerged with a clear majority. After a month of talks, the Conservatives, the Christian People's Party, and the Liberals formed a coalition with Bondevik as prime minister. The governing coalition was backed by the far-right Progress Party. But in Sept. 2005 elections, the center-left Red-Green coalition gained a majority of seats, and Jens Stoltenberg of the Labor Party once again became prime minister.

In April 2008, government officials agreed to amend the 1814 Constitution to loosen the ties between church and state. The monarch must still be Lutheran, but citizens are no longer required to raise their children as Lutherans. In the future, the church will appoint bishops instead of the monarch, and equal financial backing for other faiths and atheist communities must be provided by the state.

In June 2008, Parliament voted 84–41 to pass a new marriage act, granting homosexual couples the same marriage and adoption rights as heterosexual couples.

Picnic spots in Pakistan

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Clifton Beach

Clifton Beach, on the Arabian Sea, is a beach in Clifton, Karachi, Pakistan, one of the neighborhoods of Saddar Town. The beach has attractions for families and tourists, including beachside horse and camel rides, amusement parks, restaurants, and swimming in the Arabian Sea.

The whole beach area of Clifton and Seaview is considered safe and peacful even in times of political tensions.

A gated residential area called Seaview Apartments lies close to a section of Clifton beach known as Seaview beach or simply "Seaview". Further ahead lies Darakhshan Villas which comprises residential townhouses and huts.

Another attraction in this very area were the recently constructed Cineplex cinema houses for the entertainment starved people of Karachi, particularly for the people who reside in DHA and Clifton. This has happened after around three decades of cinema industry decline in Pakistan. Hollywood films are mostly screened here along with some selected Bollywood films. The cinema's are equipped with state of the art facilities and other entertainment sections.

The Defence Housing Authority is filling the beach area with sand to obtain more ground pushing the sea further back, which will change the shape and features of the beach.

Other beaches close to the city include Sandspit, Hawke's Bay, and Paradise Point - a sandstone rock promontory with a natural arch, but Clifton Beach is the most popular picnic destination in Karachi.

Resorts in Pakistan

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Marriott Hotel Islamabad Pakistan

HOTEL DESCRIPTION: WELCOME Ideally located in the heart of capital, Islamabad Marriott Hotel with its distinguished patronage, plays host to Heads of states, dignitaries, corporate moguls and leisure guests from across the world. A symphony of contemporary decor, IMH reflects the diversity, the grandeur, the style, the hospitality - intensified in an intriguing way. And only here will one experience those sublime moments Islamabad is famous for. The living embodiment of glamour, Marriot Hotel Islamabad, combines elegance with style to enhance a variety of guest rooms and suites. Introduce yourself to the unique delights, up-to-the-minute amenities, and homely comfort within an ambience of exclusivity. Hospitality and swank décor in deluxe and executive guestrooms make your stay a relishing experience.

Hotel Crown Plaza Islamabad Pakistan

HOTEL DESCRIPTION: Located in the city's bustling business district, in the heart of Islamabad, the distinctive Hotel Crown Plaza. welcomes both business and leisure travelers. As you will see from the moment you arrive, our hotel offers striking views of Margalla Hills as well as the natural beauty of Islamabad. Guest rooms that combine classic luxury with contemporary business tools. And a level of service that's a step beyond other hotels.

HOTEL ACCOMMODATION: Each of Hotel Crown Plaza's 61 quest rooms combines exceptional views and tasteful decor with the latest technological enhancements. Richly-appointed with handcrafted Oak furniture, marble bathrooms, and classical fixtures, each guest room is also equipped with state-of-art conveniences that make conducting business in your room truly a pleasure. Staying at Hotel Crown Plaza is surely a rare experience. You feel truly at home, right from the moment you enter the hotel until it is time to say you fond farewells and surely after leaving us you will have memories to last a lifetime.
It is centrally air-conditioned hotel with rooms comparable to any five star hotel in Pakistan. Each room has been tastefully as well as gracefully decorated and is equipped with all the due accessories to ensure smooth and seamless business operations in an absolutely comfortable atmosphere. It is for the first time in Pakistan that each room in Hotel Crown Plaza is provided with state of the art amenities.

Dream World Resort Karachi Pakistan

HOTEL DESCRIPTION: The area, which is accessible from all parts of the city, is adjacent to Gulshan-e-Maymar, off main Super Highway. Just 20 minutes drive from the Civic Center, sprawling over about 150 acres of land makeup the oasis of your dreams. An oasis, which is truly, literally, and virtually an oasis. An oasis that is all set and rolling to serve all your purposes, exclusively. A serene and tranquil gateway family resort for you and your family to rejuvenate the mind and the body.

At the Resort, you along with your family will be able to keep yourself busy and entertained for the whole day long, starting of with your breakfast and ending up with dinner! For such an entertaining, amusing and recreational distraction, you need.. well of course the Dream World Family Resort! A place where you will be assured security, privacy and the class of the people in all respects. This matter is not to be worried about as entrance to the Resort is restricted for members and their guests, exclusively. A person, who is able to satisfy all the aspects of the membership criteria, as set by the selection committee, can become a member along with his/her family.

HOTEL FACILITIES: Galaxy Restaurant (Hilltop) Housed in a beautifully octagonal building strategically located on a hilltop. It caters for over 200 guests, serving Chinese & continental delights.

LADIES SWIMMING POOL - Purpose built separate swimming pool for ladies only, offering best swimming and water games. Steam Bath, Sauna & Jacuzzi facilities are also co-located under the watchful eyes of ladies instructors and helpers. Outdoor Business and Conferences Dreamworld Beach Golf Course Fun for the Kids Motor Action Sporting Activities Water Slides Restaurants Upcoming Facilities Musical Dancing Fountain Cartoon Character.

Pearl Continental Hotel Karachi Pakistan

HOTEL DESCRIPTION: Located in the heart of the business hub and 15 km from the airport, Pearl Continental Hotel Karachi - is a preferred choice for discerning corporate and leisure travellers. Vibrant and progressive, it retains the warmth and the spirit of Pakistan, while offering a variety of rooms, stylish restaurants and contemporary business facilities, establishing itself as an undisputed, premier business hotel. Whilst not forgetting that Karachi is the city of dreams, an all enveloping sensory roller-coaster ride which leaves you delighted and inspired at the same time. There is a lot more to this city than what meets the eye.

HOTEL ACCOMMODATION: Deluxe Rooms - These elegantly appointed rooms are well equipped with modern amentias including mini bar, wireless internet connectivity, phone and fax, in-room safe, plasma TV, 24-hour in-room dining, laundry and butler service on demand. The Integrated Information & Entertainment System (IIES) brings you a feast of information services, world news, unlimited access to on-line movies and music.

Executive Rooms - In addition to all the facilities of the deluxe room, Executive and the E- floor guest rooms have free local telephone calls, 24 hour personalized butler services and express check in and check out for the executive floor guests.

Luxury Suites - Tastefully designed, these exquisite executive suites feature a living room with a guest washroom, a separate bedroom with scenic views. Larger in size as compared to the executive suites the deluxe suites come with a living and dining area, guest bathroom which offers both tub and shower cubicle and a separate bedroom. Guests in suites can avail the facility of complimentary breakfast, use of meeting rooms (subject to availability), 24 hour personal butler service and limousine transfers to and from the airport.

HOTEL FACILITIES: MARCO POLO: Guest’s favourite all day dining room with new look offers Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Buffet selection and Ala-carte menu. Sunday family brunch is very popular among guests.

DUMPUKT: Lobby level, overlooking the swimming pool, offers a wide range of cuisine from around the world. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (ala-carte).

TAIPAN: Lobby level, featuring exotic Chinese cuisine. Offers authentic Chinese schezuan and Cantonese style of cooking. The chefs have been specially flown in from mainland China. It is open for lunch (buffet) Sunday to Thursday and dinner (ala-carte) every night.

BISTRO: Lobby level. Provides round the clock service of snacks and beverages in the most popular chic and affordable restaurant in Karachi.

GRAPEVINE: A Sunken coffee shop in the lobby, serving light snacks, high-tea, juices, tea & coffee from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. A live band plays throughout lunch and dinner here.

CHANDNI: Our rooftop restaurant, provides a glorious view of the city by day or night. A perfect venue for executive lunches and romantic dinners for two. The restaurant serves buffet lunch and dinner throughout the week. Ala-carte menu is also available and the Chandni specializes in Continental and Pakistani cuisine which excels and out shines any cuisine served in Karachi.

SAKURA: It is with great pride and profound pleasure that we at Pearl Continental Hotel, Karachi announce the launch of Sakura the Japanese Restaurant to offer to our guests the most authentic Japanese cuisine in Pakistan. As you dine with us, you will not only savor the sumptuous flavor but also enjoy the spectacular interior design that actually makes you feel like you are dining in Japan. Located at the rooftop next to Chandni Restaurant, Sakura is made to capture your heart and soul and imagination.

The guests have access to all kinds of services and facilities to make their stay not only comfortable but also a memorable one.

The Pearl Continental Hotel offers complimentary airport shuttle service including travel desk facilities and provides hotel links to all major international cities having membership of Leading Hotels of the world consortium. Within Pakistan, Pearl Continental Hotels offers 5 star deluxe service in all the major cities of Pakistan through its nation-wide chain of Pearl Continental Hotels Pakistan.

The hotel features over 30 Channel Satellite TV, In-house movies, Fax machines in all suites and executive club's rooms, International direct dialing, Exclusive electronic safes, Non-smoking floor, Centrally air-conditioned environment, Beauty Salon/Barber Shop and a Shopping arcade

Besides these following services and facilities are available to our guests:

Laundry/Dry Cleaning
Parking
Airline Offices
Bookstore
24 Hour Room Service

Jewellery & Gem Shops
Baby Sitting
In-House Doctor
Business Centre
Authorized Money Changers

Car Rental
Travel Desk
Florist
Pharmacy

For the finest cuisine in the city, dine in any of our five restaurants. They offer a variety of cuisine ranging from unique Pakistani delicacies to sumptuous Chinese and Continental dishes.

We pride ourselves on the quality, presentation and health benefits of our carefully designed menus. Whether you decide to taste our fine cuisine in the hotel or satisfy your taste buds in our Chandni Roof Top restaurant, our master chefs always select only the freshest of foods and ingredients.

Shangrila Resort Hotel Murree Pakistan

HOTEL DESCRIPTION: Shangrila Resort Hotel Murree Hills is latest addition to the Shangrila chain of resorts, one of the oldest hotel chains in Pakistan . The relatively small and family owned and operated nature of our establishment ensures that clients receive the personalized service and attention they deserve. Shangrila Resort Hotel Murree is located in an exclusive corner of the hill station, providing our guests with panoramic views of the under laying valleys from every spot around the hotel. A mere 10 minutes away from the bustling center of the city. Shangrila Resort Hotel Murree Hills provide the ideal mix of privacy and proximity to the city. Whether you want to host a conference, organize a private function, or simply get away for a weekend, we provide a beautiful, peaceful, and private environment for all your needs. The hotel has recently undergone and upgrade, with an increase in the number of suites, addition of new dining and entertainment facilities, as well as the construction of several individual cottages, which are nestled in a secluded corner of the property, allowing our guests even more space for themselves.

HOTEL ACCOMMODATION: There are 60 centrally heated combination of suites and double rooms, each fully equipped with a mini bar, cable television and a telephone with direct dialing facility. The suites have two channels of their own. The older wing has been totally refurbished and the rooms are more luxurious and comfortable than before. The rooms offer magnificent views and a 24 hour service is available. Our discharging guests are also offered a choice of pillows ranging from soft, hard to orthopedic.

HOTEL FACILITIES:

Saffron
An elegantly decorated restaurant with stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Saffron offered the ultimate personalized culinary experience. The menu is a blend of continental and local favorites including our very own rendition of the ever-popular chicken karahi and chicken makhani. Saffron lies overlooking crisscrossing paths, beautiful hills and valleys. The restaurants outdoor patio allows you to dine under the roof of the world , in the most breathing natural surroundings our part of the world has to offer.

The Huqqa Pani Lounge

The Huqqa Pani Lounge with its gracious old world charm serves a variety of fruit flavored tobacco or sheesha. Apart from the snakes and drinks, the room offers a wonderful and relaxing atmosphere with a glorious view of Murree and the surrounding hills.

Angeethi - the Grill

The grill is located adjacent to the Huqqa Pani lounge and follows the same earthen traditional theme. So after relexing in the lounge, you can come and watch our chefs prepare a variety of mountwatering barbeque dishes.

The beautiful backdrop and the traditional ambience , combined with the delicious food make dining at The Grill an occasion to remember.

The Conference Hall is complete with state of the art audio-visual and multimedia facilities. It is an ideal location for seminars, meetings, workshops as well as coffee mornings, luncheon meetings and day trip for business lunches.
We are also well equipped for catering family gatherings, exhibitions, weddings and private parties. The Shangrila Resort Hotel Murree is the perfect setting for mixing business with pleasure, as the free time allows you to recharge your batteries and get away from it all.

Cities of Pakistan

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Karachi

Karachi, city in southern Pakistan, capital of Sind Province, on the Arabian Sea, at the northwestern edge of the Indus River delta. The hub of a sprawling metropolitan area, Karachi is the nation's largest city and its chief transportation, financial, commercial, and manufacturing center. Most of the international trade of Pakistan and landlocked Afghanistan pass through the city's busy modern port, centered on the island of Kiamari. Major highways and railroads focus on the city, and the modern airport here is a stopover and refueling point for intercontinental flights. Among the many products of Karachi are steel, textiles, chemicals, refined petroleum, footwear, machinery, handicrafts, and processed food. The city also is an important banking center and has a stock exchange. The University of Karachi (1951) and NED University of Engineering and Technology (1922) are here. The tomb of Muhammed Ali Jinnah, founder of Pakistan, is a landmark. An old settlement, Karachi was a small fishing and trade center when captured by the British in 1839 and annexed three years later. Under British rule, it became the chief outlet for Indus Valley cotton and grain exports. Karachi was the capital of newly independent Pakistan from 1947 until 1959, when it was replaced by the provisional capital of Rawalpindi (Islamabad became Pakistan's permanent capital in 1967.) During the early years of independence Karachi grew rapidly as the chief port and industrial center of West Pakistan, and many Muslim refugees from India settled here. Since the 1980s the city has been the site of violent eruptions between the rival political, religious, and ethnic groups. Population (1998) 9,269,265.

Islamabad

Islamabad, city and capital of Pakistan, northern Pakistan, in the Capital Territory, on the Potwar Plateau, near Rawalpindi. In 1959 the site of Islamabad was chosen to replace Karachi as the capital of Pakistan. Constantinos A. Doxiadis and other internationally known urban planners were commissioned to design the new city, and construction began in 1961. In 1967 Islamabad was officially made the capital, and work on the city's principal buildings, streets, and facilities was completed by the mid-1970s. The city is divided into eight largely self-contained zones, each characterized by its predominant usages (such as for government, commerce, light industry, or residential areas). Notable structures in Islamabad include the National Assembly Building, designed by Louis I. Kahn. The city is the site of Quaid-i-Azam University (1965). Population (1998) 524,500.

Lahore

Lahore, city, northeastern Pakistan, capital of Punjab Province, on the Ravi River. It is the principal commercial and banking center of the province. Although little industry is located in the city proper, Lahore serves as a distribution center for the heavily industrialized surrounding area. Manufactures include textiles, metal products, chemicals, machinery, glassware, and leather and rubber goods. An educational and cultural center, the city is the site of the University of the Punjab (1882), the oldest university in Pakistan, and the University of Engineering and Technology (1961). An atomic energy research center is located in the city. Lahore is the site of architecturally significant buildings and monuments, many dating from the Mughal Empire (circa 1526-1707), during which the city achieved great prominence. In 1849, Lahore fell to the British. When India was partitioned in 1947, Lahore was made capital of West Punjab. Population (1998) 5,063,499.

Peshawar

Peshawar, city, northwestern Pakistan, capital of North-West Frontier Province, near the entrance to Khyber Pass. The city is a commercial center and the traditional terminus of caravans from Afghanistan. Industries include handicrafts and the manufacture of processed food, footwear, silk, and cotton textiles. Peshawar University was established here in 1950. Also in the city is Peshawar Museum, which houses important collections of sculpture of the ancient Gandhara civilization. An ancient trading center known as Purushapure, the city was a target for invaders of the Indian subcontinent because of its strategic location near the pass. In the early 19th century Peshawar came under the control of the Sikhs, and in 1849 it was captured by the British. It has been the capital of the Pakistani North-West Frontier Province (except for 1955-70) since 1947. Population (1998) 988,055.

Economy of Pakistan

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Pakistan Economy registers a six to seven percent economic growth with its foreign direct investment escalating day by day. Pakistan , from the time of its independence started with a purely agricultural economy. But soon its industrial wing gathered momentum and soon Pakistan became the role model world over.

It is one among the growing economies of the World. The economic potentiality of the country is better judged only when we mark the positive growth rate of the economy since 1951.

The country has a total surface area of 796.1 thousand sq mi.

The Infant Mortality rate (per 1,000 life births) in the country was 74.3 in the year 2003.
Under 5 mortality rate (per 1,000 children) was 98 in the year 2003.
The adult male literacy rate (% of males ages 15 and above) was 61.7 in the year 2004.
The adult female literacy rate (% of females ages 15 and above) was 35.2 in the year 2004.

Pakistan Economy And Key Economic Indicators

The Gross National Income, Atlas method of the country (Current US $) has reached 90.7 billions in the year 2004. The GNI percapita Atlas method (Current US $) in the country was 600.0 in 2004.

The Gross Domestic Product (Current $) in the country was 96.1 billions in the year 2004 with an annual growth rate of 6.4 percent in the same year.

The average annual growth rate of GDP for the country is estimated at 6.5 percent for the period of 2005-09.

The following graph shows the annual average growth rate of the GDP in the economy.

Culture of Pakistan

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Pakistan's culture is very diverse. This stems from the fact that what is now Pakistan has in the past been invaded and occupied by many different peoples, including White Huns, Persians, Arabs, Turks, Mongols and various Eurasian groups. There are differences in culture among the different ethnic groups in matters such as dress, food, and religion, especially where indigenous pre-Islamic customs differ from Islamic practices.

Despite tense relations with India, Indian movies are popular in Pakistan. Ironically, Indian films are officially illegal, but they can easily be found across Pakistan. An indigenous movie industry exists in Pakistan, and is known as Lollywood, producing over forty feature-length films a year. Music is also very popular in Pakistan, and ranges from traditional styles (such as Qawwali ) to more modern groups that try to fuse traditional Pakistani music with western music.

Increasing globalization has increased the influence of Western culture in Pakistan, especially among the affluent, who have easy access to Western products, television, media, and food. Many Western food chains have established themselves in Pakistan, and are found in the major cities. At the same time, there is also a reactionary movement within Pakistan that wants to turn away from Western influences, and this has manifested itself in a return to more traditional roots, often conflated with Islam.

A large Pakistani diaspora exists, especially in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada and Australia as well as in the Scandinavian nations. A large number of Pakistanis are also living in the Middle east. These emigrants and their children influence Pakistan culturally and economically, by travelling to Pakistan, and especially by returning or investing there.

Perhaps the most popular sport in Pakistan is cricket, and large amounts of Pakistanis gather around TV sets to watch the Pakistani team play in World competitions, especially against Pakistan's rival India. Pakistan has one of the top teams in international cricket, one that won the World Cup in 1992. Field Hockey is also an important sport in Pakistan, Pakistan having won the gold medal at the Olympics a number of times in the sport. Football or Soccer is played in Pakistan as well, but is not as popular as cricket or field hockey. Polo is believed to have originated in the Northern parts of Pakistan, and continues to be an important sport there with large competitions throughout the year.

History of Pakistan

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Pakistan was created on the 14th of August 1947. The founder was Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah and was helped by a number of prominent Muslims all over India. Some of the men were, Nistar from the Frontier, Qazi Isa and Jogezai from Balochistan, Sir Abdullah Haroon from Sindh, Mamdot, Hyat, and Daultana from the Punjab, Liaqat Ali khan and the Rajah of Mahmudabad from the United Provinces, Nizamuddin, Suhrawardy and Ispahani from Bengal, and Bahadur Yar Jung from Hyderabad, Allama Iqbal, Chawdri Rehmat Ali, and many more.
Quaid -e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah at first backed the idea of one separate India free from the British rule, Muslims and Hindus living together and side by side. However, his views changed when the Hindu Congress party dominated by Hindus were not fair towards the Muslims and seeing this Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah left the Congress Party and joined the All-India Muslim League. He felt that when India would gain independence from the British, the British raj would be replaced by Ram raj, and Muslims would have no voice left and would be defenseless. Then he decided that the only way for Muslims and Hindus to live peacefully was separately as seperate nations, and this idea was first dreamt by Dr. Allama Iqbal. As a result the Pakistan plan emerged and this was declared at Lahore on 23rd March 1940 that Pakistan would be created for the Muslims. This declaration was called the Lahore Resolution or better known as Pakistan movement. Thus the struggle for Pakistan began.

When the time came for dividing the land between Pakistan and India it was decided that the Muslim majority areas would become Pakistan, and the Hindu majority areas India. The plan for the territories had been made and agreed upon by both parties, but Viceroy Lord Louis Mountbatten teamed up with Jawarlal Nehru and changed the map and gave India the areas which were supposed to go to Pakistan causing millions of people to migrate from Pakistan to India and also from India to Pakistan. Also, Mountbatten and Nehru played foul by making the Kashmiri ruler sign backdated and fake papers, which allowed India to land its forces in Kashmir and take control.

Pakistan had been betrayed repeatedly, and if Quaid would have objected to the new plan, Pakistan wouldn't have been able to materialize, and on top of that, Mountbatten had brought the date of independence forward causing the Muslims many of problems.The Hindus and the British were determined to destroy Pakistan in its early stages. They (the Hindus and the british) even withheld the assets which Pakistan was supposed to get, but Gandhi came to Pakistan's rescue and got those assets released. This was one reason why he was assassinated by the Hindus themselves, as they thought he was being soft towards the Muslims.

Jinnah's main force came from the students of Aligarh University, which was built by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan in Aligarh to help the Muslims of India achieve something in their lives.

When the partition took place millions of lives were lost in the bloody partition as the Muslims migrated from India to Pakistan (not all Muslims migrated to Pakistan from India), and the Hindus migrated to India. Raids were conducted by all the parties in retaliation to the ones which had already occurred. Hundreds of people lost their lives when the trains were sacked and pillaged and all the passengers killed.

Pakistan has fought three wars against India who was determined to destroy Pakistan from the start. Two of the wars were fought for Kashmir in which Pakistan only could reclaim a part of Kashmir, now called Azad Kashmir. But in the third war in 1971 Pakistan lost its land, East Pakistan, now called Bangladesh. Bangladesh gained its independence from Pakistan with India's help.

Picnic Spots in United Arab Emirates

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Al Boom Tourist Village
	Adjacent to Creekside Park, the village consists of a 2,000 seat banquet hall, a coffee shop, restaurant, amusement park, ornamental lake and a marina with five cruise boats. Its traditional architecture forms a stately city landmark. Located next to Wonderland Family Fun Park. It is open 7 days. Timings: 9am-1am. Entertainment includes evening boat cruises with dinner served.
ContactAl Boom Tourist Village - Tel: 3243000

Archaeological Sites
	There are three main archaeological sites in Dubai. They are located in Al Ghusals, Al Sufooh and Jumeirah. Al Ghusals and Al Sufooh have over 2000 years old graveyards. You can visit the excavation sites at Al Ghusais, Al Sufooh and Jumeirah where you will find artifacts from the 7th to 15th century.
ContactOff Road Adventures - Tel: 04 3432288

Bait Al Wakeel
	Built in 1934 by the late Sheikh Rashid, Bait Al Wakeel was Dubai's first office building. At the edge of the Creek near the abra landing, the building has been completely restored and now houses a museum devoted to Dubai's fishing and maritime traditions.

Bastakiya
	The old Bastakiya district with its narrow lanes and tall wind-towers gives a tantalizing glimpse of old Dubai. Immediately to the east of Al Fahidi Fort is the largest concentration of traditional courtyard houses with windtowers. In the past, the city was famous for a mass of windtowers which lined the Creek on either side. These were not merely decorative; they were the only means of cooling houses in the days before electricity.

Bedouin Village
	Some local tour operators offer the opportunity to visit Bedouin village outside Dubai. This provides an experience of the traditional desert way of life and may include camel-riding lessons. Those who want a desert safari experience with a difference may choose to stay at Al Maha, a unique luxury resort set in 3,300 acres of dunes off the highway between blankets, rugs, beads and a variety of other rural wares spread on the ground. Owners urge jockeys on to the finish line while trainers speedily follow the races in fourwheel drives which plough through the dust of the inside track. The atmosphere is contagious!

Burj Nahar
	Burj Nahar Built around 1870, the Nahar Tower was one in the line of defences to the east and north of the city. One of the three watchtowers guarding the old city, the restored Burj Nahar with its picturesque gardens in Deira is quite a popular spot for photography.
ContactTravelogue Tourism- Tel: 04 3550660

Deira Covered Souk (District)
	This souk specialises in textiles and is located in the Al Sabkha Bus station area, Dubai This is one of the main souks in Dubai and is well worth a wander and a barter.

Dubai Creek
	The Creek is lined by dhows and offers a picturesque glimpse of Dubai's trading heritage. It can crossed by 'abra' (water taxi) and tour operators offer day or night cruises.
ContactCreek Cruises - Tel: 04 3939860

Dubai Museum
	Al Fahidi Fort, which houses the Dubai Museum, is another imposing building. It once guarded the city's landlord approaches. Built around 1799, it has served variously as palace, garrison and prison. It was renovated in 1970 for use as a museum; further restoration and the addition of galleries was completed in 1995. Colorful and evocative dioramas, complete with life-size figures and sound and lighting effects, vividly depict everyday life in pre-oil days. Galleries rescenes from the Creek, traditional Arab houses, mosques, the souk, date gardens, desert and marine life. One of the most spectacular exhibits portrays the underwater world of pearl-diving, and is accompanied by sets of pearl merchants' weights, scales and sieves. Also on display are artifacts such as fine copper, alabaster and pottery objects found in 3,000-4,000 year-old graves at Al Ghusais. The main fort is a fascinating military museum.
ContactTiming Open daily from 8.30am - 8.30pm except Fridays: 3pm-8.30pm; Tel: 3531862

Dubai World Trade Centre
	The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) was established to stimulate trade and commerce in the United Arab Emirates in 1979. Over the past two decades, the DWTC has become a symbol of economic growth and prosperity in the Middle East. It undertakes three core activities: organizing exhibitions, providing hospitality services and property leasing. From humble beginning in 1979 to being a state-of-the-art complex today, the DWTC has recorded remarkable growth in all areas of its core activities. The Complex includes a 39-storey office tower, 492 serviced residential apartments with a sports club, seven international standard interconnected and purpose built exhibition halls, a 200-seat theatre, a congress center and a private member's business club.
ContactTel: 04 3321000

Gold Souk
	Dubai boasts one of the largest retail gold markets in the world, selling everything from ingots to intricately worked jewellery at bargain prices. The street-front stores hide alleys of smaller shops with glittering show windows.

Grand Mosque
	Situated on the Bur Dubai side of the Creek near the Ruler's Court, Grand Mosque was re-built in 1998 and now has, at 70 metres, the city's tallest minaret. It has 45 small domes in addition to nine large ones boasting stained glass panels, making it a distinguished landmark and important place of worship.
Address Al Mussalla Road (near Ruler's Court)

Hatta
	In the foothills of the majestic Hajjar mountains, Hatta is a comfortable resort, ideal for a weekend getaway. The historic Hatta fort overlooks the town. The area is a much frequented picnic spot, and is about one hour drive from Dubai.
Contact Alpha Tours Tel: 04 2949888

Hatta Mountains
	From Jurassic Park to Hatta in one swoop. Larger than life: The 30 metre long Dinosaur dwarfed by the Hatta Mountains. Stairs under its tail will lead to a room built in its stomach where replics of the stone Age will be kept. A white prancing horse adorns a hill on top at the farm. Visitors to the farm are greeted by a cannon. The driveway, internal roads and walkways are made of stone with pictures created from different coloured stones.

Heritage and Diving Village
	A traditional heritage village, located in the Shindagah area has been created where potters and weavers display their crafts. The Diving village forms part of an ambitious plan to turn the entire area into a cultural microcosm, recreating life in Dubai as it was in days gone by. Located near the mouth of the creek, this area is also popular in the evenings as a venue for its open-air cafeterias and live entertainment. Several shops also sell handicrafts. No entrance fees.
Contact Tel: 04 3937151

Jumeirah Mosque
	Located on Al Jumeira Road this mosque, one of the most beautiful of all, and a fine example of modern Islamic architecture. The beauty of the mosque, the city's largest, is seen at its very best particularly when floodlit after sundown, when the subtle lighting throws its artistry into relief. The mosque is one of the most visited and photographed sights. Tours are at 10am every Sunday and Thursday mornings. For tour information, contact the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, which is open 8am - 3pm, Sat-Wed.
Contact Tel: 04 3447755

Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House (Museum) Port Rashid, Dubai
	Shaikh Saeed was the grandfather of the present ruler and his house has been restored as a museum. Dating from the late 1800s, Sheikh Saeed's House was built in a commanding position near the sea so the Ruler could observe shipping activity from its balconies. With its windtowers and layers of rooms built around a central courtyard, it is a fine example of regional architecture. An ambitious restoration project has returned the house to its former glory and makes it a showcase for the history and development of Dubai. Sheikh Saeed's house can be visited as part of the Big Bus Company's tour of Dubai. The ticket price of Dhs 75 includes the entrance to Sheikh Saeed's House and Dubai museum as well.
Contact Tel: 04 3937139

Resorts in United Arab Emirates

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Kempinski Hotel Ajman

Sprawled along the shores of the idyllic small Emirate of Ajman, the Kempinski Hotel Ajman promises more beach per head with over 500 metres of private white sandy beach and crystal
clear blue waters.

Kempinski Hotel Ajman features 183 elegant sea view rooms and offers a wide range of international fine dining restaurants, bars and cafés. The Laguna Beach Club comprises of a modern fitness gym with a health club and aerobic studio. A range of sports facilities such as bowling, water sports and diving is also available on site. The Laguna Spa and Softouch Ayurveda Spa offer unique pampering and holistic treatments.

The hotel also offers meeting space for 5 – 1,200 persons in board and meeting rooms or the grand ballroom with a permanent stage. Furthermore, culinary theme nights and barbeque at the beach, cocktail reception at the art gallery, Oriental dining in an Arabic fort and team building activities such as beach Olympic Games can be arranged. Frequent daily shuttle bus to Dubai and Sharjah,

Emirates Palace

Emirates Palace, operated by luxury hotel group Kempinski Hotel and Resorts, showcases the beauty of Arabian culture, adhering to traditional themes and providing an affinity with the national identity of Unite Arab Emirates. Built in the style of a majestic palace rising from the sand, the colours of the Emirtes Palace, facade represent the different sand nuances found in the Araban Desert. The Palace is a n architectural wonder and an international landmark boasting a staggerign 114 domes all covered in mosaic glass tiles. Its elaborate design and unparalleled facilities were created with the sole purpose of whisking its guests into a world worthy of royalty where their wevry whim will be fulfilled and their every need catered to.

Radisson BLU Beach Resort Sharjah

Nestled by a beautiful white sandy beach, the five-star Radisson BLU Resort in Sharjah is a city landmark that caters to both business and leisure travellers. The resort is close to excellent shopping at the local Souks and Dubai´s many shopping malls, as well as the business district. Both Sharjah and Dubai airports are just a 25-minute drive from the hotel.
The resort has 300 exquisitely appointed rooms and suites, as well as casual and relaxing poolside cabanas.

Free Broadband including high-speed and wireless Internet access is available throughout the hotel.
The Bay Club offers two tennis courts and a bowling alley. You can indulge in our private beach and lagoon, and swimming pools for adults and children. A wide range of water sports including sailing and snorkelling are available. The resort has saunas for ladies and gentlemen as well as Swedish and Chinese massages, and a fully-equipped gym.

A wide variety of tours and excursions around the United Arab Emirates can be booked with the in-house tours and excursion desk. Café at the Falls serves up an international menu is especially popular for its buffets.

For a truly authentic Chinese experience, we welcome you to China Garden; and for a taste of Morocco and Persia step into Shahzadeh. Our extensive and fully-equipped conference facilities can accommodate a party or event for up to 800 guests.

Hilton Fujairah Resort

Soak up the sun on the Hilton Fujairah Resort's private beach and dive into the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Try your hand at tennis, golf and watersports or relax in the health club. Kids love the pool and exploring nearby Al Hayl Fort.

Take a trip to the Gold Souk or Kalba Lagoon or spend a day shopping in Dubai, then unwind in one of 4 restaurants and bars. Enjoy fresh seafood in the beachfront Sailor's Restaurant at the Hilton Fujairah Resort or a drink at the intimate Octavia Bistro and Bar.

Ninety minutes' drive from the airport, the Hilton Fujairah Resort has 2 meeting rooms for 16-200 and a business center and wireless internet access in public spaces. From a Hilton Guest Room Plus with garden views to a spacious Chalet with patio, all rooms have high-speed internet access.

Cities of United Arab Emirates

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ABU DHABI

Abu Dhabi is the capital of UAE and the largest of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates. The emirate, which holds 70% of the country's wealth, is also the largest of the former Trucial States. During the 20th century, Abu Dhabi's economic flow was mainly from camel herding, production of dates and vegetables, fishing and pearl diving off the coast of the city. Pearl export was the largest source of income of the city until oil was founded in 1958. After the emirates gained independence in 1971, oil became the main source of income and with this, it grew rapidly and emerged into an oil-producing city. His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahayan is the hereditary ruler of Abu Dhabi, and the current president of the United Arab Emirates.

Area & Location: Lies on the Persian Gulf regions, Abu Dhabi borders the emirate of Dubai to its north. Located at 24.4667° Latitude North and 54.3667° Longitude East, the city covers a total area of 67,000 sq. km. The city is located on a T-shaped island. It is home to 1,850,230 people, majority of them are expatriate workers and professionals from India, Pakistan, Egypt, Philippines and UK.

Tourist Attractions: Abu Dhabi, which is marvelously maintained and well-built with many high raising buildings is a popular tourist destination.

Transportation: Abu Dhabi International Airport is the prime access to the city.

Places of Attraction:The numerous high rising buildings in the city itself are a piece of attraction to the tourists. Al-Hosn Palace-the oldest building in the city is its major landmark. Horse and camel rides through the city delights those visiting here. Desert Safaris gives the people the real taste of the city. Abu Dhabi is a modern greenish city with plenty of gardens and parks and fountains. Corniche a 6-km long road, which has several gardens along its sides, is an amazing sight. Liwa Oasis, Rub Al Khali, Jebel Hafit Mountains, Ain AL Fayda Resort, Hili Gardens, Al Ain Museum, and Qattarah Oasis are other interesting points in the city meant to view and learn.

Sharjah

sharjah location and orientation throws light on the various geographical aspects and lay out of the city. Located within the geographical coordinates of 55.21° east longitude and 25.25° degrees north latitude, the city of Sharjah is situated on a three mile deep salt strip known as 'subkhat'.

As the third largest emirate of UAE, Sharjah covers an approximate land area of 2,600 square kilometers. The landscape of Sharjah is dominated by sandy deserts and mountains. Sharjah is the only emirate having land both on Indian Ocean as well as the Arabian Sea. The main provinces of Sharjah are the Batinah in the east coast. Hisn Dibba, Khor Fakkan and Kalba are other provinces. The orientations of the towns in Sharjah are mainly along the east coast.

The southern most tip of UAE lies in the Indian Ocean and is referred to as Khor Kalba. Rich mangrove vegetation fringes the coastline. The mangrove forest has been demarcated as a Nature Reserve and is a home to several endangered species. The gravel plains stretch along the coastal borders along the foot hills. The spectacular Hajar mountain range rises 2,500 feet above the sea level. Innumerable wadis, which are dried up river valleys, intersect the mountains.Khorfakkan, Kalba, Al Dhai and Dibba al Hisn are important towns located in the east coast of Sharjah.

Dubai

City and emirate in the United Arab Emirates, capital of Dubai Emirate. The city has a population of 1.35 million, the emirate of 1.4 million (2005 estimate).
Dubai is situated at the Persian Gulf and is divided into two parts by the Dubai Creek. Dubai proper lies on the western side; the part on the eastern side is called Dayra.
The economic base of Dubai is petroleum exports, port activities and international trade. The traditional occupations of pearl diving, fishing and camel breeding have lost most of their importance now.
Dubai is called the "Venice of the Gulf", its buildings being new and impressive, and set in between canals on the sea.

Economy of United Arab Emirates

2009-08-17T10:33:00.000-07:00

Great oil finds since the 1960's has brought UAE wealth and progress. Still, over the last 20-30 years, UAE's success in the Middle East is largely owned to a national focus on developing alternatives to the oil industries.
This involves very successful programs to turn designated ports of the Emirates into trade centres, development of industries, refining of oil as well as land reclamation.
Land reclamation has made the Emirates self-sufficient of fruits and vegetables. About 6% of the total territory of UAE is cultivated, and agriculture contributes 3% of GDP, employing nearly 130,000 people in 2001. One of the problems of agriculture is the extreme lack of fresh water, but UAE has built up industries of desalination. There is also good fishing outside the coast, bringing in more than 50 kg/inhabitant/year.
Still oil and natural gas is by far the most important to UAEs economy. Yet, it is only in 3 of 7 emirates where oil exploitation is of a major scale, but search of new reserves are going on in all the others.
As much as 40% of national budgets are used on the military forces. The aim of this is internal control, as well as the need of a defence towards Saudi Arabia.
UAE has since long enjoyed a considerable level of trade surplus, although there was a decline in this since the early 1980's, as wells were beginning to run dry. In the late 1990's the trade surplus averaged at about 30 billion dirhams (about 8 billion US$). In the early 2000's, this had increased to between 35 and 40 billion dirhams.
Higher demand from an increasing population and an expanding agricultural sector has caused a dramatic drop in water tables in the UAE; while much water is produced by desalination plants, there has also been a high increase in wells drilled. This has allowed seawater to encroach on lowlands, and many farms have closed down.
UAE's programmes for food production has largely been a great success, and the federation is now self-sufficient with wheat, nearly self-sufficient with fish. However, as fish are concerned, over-fishing has reached a level where it can have grave effects in the near future.
In order to accommodate foreign investments, free zones like Jabal Ali have permitted extensive rights to foreign investors, like the right to 100% foreign ownership, absence of taxes and duties and full repatriation of profits.
UAE has 6 international airports, located to individual emirates (Abu Dhabi has two), in a few cases ridiculously close. Ajman and Umm al-Qaiwain are without international airports. The busiest among them is Dubai, which served 18 million passengers in 2003, aiming at 30 million by 2010. The federation shares the airline, Emirates Airlines.
Trade is done through free-trade zones, especially Jabal Ali and Port Zayed; yet there is a 5% import tariff for all of the emirates, raised from 4% in 2003.
Tourism has been strongly promoted especially since the mid-1990's, the number of visitors passed 1 million in 1993. It is mainly Dubai benefitting from foreign visitors, seeing 2.5 million in 1999. In December 1999 opened the Burj al-Arab, promoted as one of the world's most luxurious hotels and among the tallest.
Dubai has also been promoting the sales of holiday homes, aiming at the wealthiest among foreigners. Four areas of artificial lands have been constructed, three of which are "palms"; Jumeirah, Jebel Ali and Deira. While real estate is expensive on these palms, it cannot be compared to the fourth project, "The World", first called "Globe Archipelago", where islands representing individual states lain out like a world map are sold for between US$15 and 50 million. Although all these projects are off the reach of most visitors, they have strongly helped promote Dubai as the new chic tourist destination.
The Emirati dirham was introduced in 1973, when it replaced the two currencies that were in common use in the emirates, the Bahraini dinar and the Qatar riyal. The official abbreviation is now "AED", changed in 1996 from "Dh". The AED was fixed to the US dollar in 1997, which has caused that the AED has lost its value to other major currencies as the USD has dropped in value (in 1997 1.12 to the ECU, in 2008 1.46 to the Euro).
Following the terror attacks on the USA on September 11, 2001, it became known that money transferred from the Citibank branches of UAE had been used to finance the attacks. Large funds on 62 accounts belonging to 27 individuals and organizations were frozen just weeks after. Measures against secret transactions and money laundering were imposed in October; the hawala system was exempted, a system transferring money to countries without a bank system. Hawala is by many believed to have emerged as the main system for transferring money in connection with international terrorism.

Culture of United Arab Emirates

2009-08-17T10:23:00.000-07:00

CULTURE
Islam is the official religion and Arabic the official language. The majority of the local population is Sunni. The communities have their own schools and social and cultural institutions. English, Urdu/Hindi and Farsi are also spoken. Traditionally, the people of Abu Dhabi are courteous, kind and friendly and quite hospitable both in social matters and in business. Foreigners. especially tourists and visitors are treated with generosity. But they in turn are expected to respect local customs, especially religious practice. and abide by the law of the land. During Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, non--Muslim foreigners are expected to refrain from eating. drinking and smoking in public places during the hours of fasting. In Ramadan official working hours are reduced. Shops compensate for the loss of business by staying open longer. The two Eids arc also the period when many people go abroad for holidays. It is, therefore, advisable to book flights in and out of the UAE well in advance.

NATIONAL DRESS
Native menfolk of the Arabian peninsula have a distinct form of dress. They wear an ankle-length shirt (dishdasha), usually white (or colored or striped in winter), a white, or sometimes red-chequered, headcloth (ghutra) and the twisted, black rope piece (agal), holding the gutra in place. Men of distinction and the Sheikhs also wear on top of their dishdasha a flowing cloak (abba or bisht) edged with gold braid. It may he black or brown. UAE women are very particular about their dress. They generally cover themselves from head to feet with a black cloak called the ahaya'.

CAMEL RACING
Reflecting the traditions of the desert, the role of the camel has been given much attention. Once it carried the people across the sands, providing at the same time milk, meat and leather, while its shoulder-blades were used as little 'blackboards' for children studying. Now proper school equipment is available from other sources, as is leather, but many local families still keep a few for meat and for milk. To encourage them to do so, the government offers subsidies to those who still keep this noble and historic beast of burden. The camel will more easily be noticed by the visitor, however, during the great camel races held in various locations throughout the country in the winter months, when owners from the Emirates and the rest of Arabia pit their fastest steeds one against the other. The major festivals attract many hundreds of camels to compete for prizes that total several million dollars. The top steeds can each fetch well over a million dollars. Camel-racing has become one of the country's most popular spectator sports.

BOAT RACING
Another tradition that has taken on new life in the years since the UAE was established is that of boat racing, now given substantial encouragement by the government in the form of handsome cash prizes. Two kinds of boats are used. The first is powered by a single sail that catches the wind to drive wooden boats of shallow draught fast across the surface of the sea. A couple of dozen such sailing boats scudding across the waves, their sails shining in the sun, is one of the most romantic sights to be seen anywhere. The other boats are powered by men, not the wind, great rowing boats of 20 meters or more in length, rowed by up to a hundred oarsmen straining every muscle to reach the finishing line. Boat races are held on special occasions throughout the year, to commemorate events such as the annual National Day holiday, and have proved a popular attraction for visitors, while, at the same time, keeping alive the maritime traditions of the UAE's sturdy people.

FALCONRY
More of an individual sport is that of falconry, whose origins among the Arabs date back many centuries, and are lost in the mists of time. Flying Saker or peregrine falcons prized for their strength or speed, the people of the Emirates practiced falconry in the past not merely as a sport but as a way of providing a useful supplement to their diet, or a tasty hare, or a well-fed bustard. Today, it is purely a sport. and one which is popular from the highest to the lowest in the land. Like other hinters, however, the people of the Emirates are concerned with the need to) understand and protect the environment, and the quarry which they hunt, lest it disappears.

FOLK MUSIC AND DANCE
Folk dances and music are integral to any celebration. Most dances are male-oriented. Everybody present at a joyous occasion is expected to join in. Dancers sway together in a line or a circle or clapping to the accompaniment of tambourines of various sizes, with rings or bells attached. Drums are an integral part of classical and folk music. A popular dance for females has young girls in flowing black tresses swing their heads in a hypnotic, undulating movement. Many popular songs are sung on special occasion. Both music and words, usually of a bedu dialect, are simply composed. The wedding provide the most popular occasions for traditional dancing. Dance groups may begin performing a week or more before the event. Most wedding music and dance is of local origin but some brought by immigrants have also been absorbed into the folklore. At functions attended by local dignitaries and state guests a particular folksong - the Ayyalah - is performed. This is basically developed from a war song whose purpose was to raise the morale of the fighting men

History of United Arab Emirates

2009-08-17T10:06:00.000-07:00

Prior to independence, the UAE was Trucial Oman, also known as the Trucial States, and the component sheikhdoms of the territory were under British protection.

Although, from 1892, the United Kingdom assumed responsibility for the sheikhdoms´ defence and external relations, they were otherwise autonomous and followed the traditional form of Arab monarchy, with each ruler having virtually absolute power over his subjects.
In 1952 a local body, the Trucial Council, comprising the rulers of the seven sheikhdoms, was established.
The object of the Council was to encourage the adoption of common policies in administrative matters, possibly leading to a federation of the states.

Petroleum, the basis of the area´s modern prosperity, was first discovered in 1958, when deposits were located beneath the coastal waters of Abu Dhabi, the largest of the sheikhdoms.

Onshore petroleum was found in Abu Dhabi in 1960. Commercial exploitation of petroleum began there in 1962, providing the state with greatly increased revenue. However, Sheikh Shakhbut bin Sultan an-Nahyan, the Ruler of Abu Dhabi since 1928, failed: to use the income from petroleum royalties to develop his domain.

In January 1968 the United Kingdom announced its intention of withdrawing British military forces from the area by 1971. In March 1968 the Trucial States joined nearby Bahrain and Qatar (which were also under British protection) in what was named the Federation of Arab Emirates.

It was intended that the Federation should become fully independent, but the interests of Bahrain and Qatar proved to be incompatible with those of the smaller sheikhdoms, and both seceded from the Federation in August 1971 to become separate independent states.

In July six of the Trucial States (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Umm al-Qaiwain, Ajman and Fujairah) had agreed on
a federal Constitution for achieving independence as the United Arab Emirates. The UK accordingly terminated its special treaty relationship with the States, and the UAE became independent on 2 December 1971.

The remaining sheikhdom, Ras al-Khaimah, joined the United Arab Emirates in February 1972. At independence Sheikh Zayed of Abu Dhabi took office as the first President of the United Arab Emirates.

Sheikh Rashid bin Said al-Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai since 1958, became Vice-President, while his eldest son, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid al-Maktoum (Crown Prince of Dubai), became Prime Minister in the Federal Council of ministers.

In October 1990, upon the death of his father, Sheikh Maktoum acceded to the positions of ruler of Dubai and Vice-President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates.

The UAE was a founder member of the GCC of the Gulf (generally known as the Gulf Co-operation Council) in May 1981. The GCC aims to achieve greater political and economic integration between Gulf countries, and from 1983 onwards, the United Arab Emirates took part in joint military exercises with the other member states.

Since the Arab-Israeli war of October 1973, in which it strongly supported the Arab cause, the UAE has contributed large sums of aid to Arab countries. Despite giving aid to Iraq in the Iran-Iraq war (1980-88), diplomatic relations with Iran were maintained, and the United Arab Emirates offered to mediate between the two countries.

In common with the other Arab states, the United Arab Emirates condemned the 1979 Camp David agreements between Egypt and Israel, and diplomatic relations with Egypt were severed. Full diplomatic relations were restored in November 1987. Commercial links have since been fostered by the two countries.

Resorts in USA

2009-08-17T09:37:00.000-07:00

Crowne Plaza Washington hotel

Washington’s "Crowne Jewel" has a new look and a new name, the Hamilton Crowne Plaza-Washington DC hotel. Restoration of this 1920s, boutique style hotel combines the tradition of Washington with modern amenities, including high speed Internet, a fitness center and a business center. A specially created women’s floor is designed with safety in mind. The new decor embraces a residential style with a focus on elegance and comfort, and features all the amenities of a first class hotel.

The pet friendly Crowne Plaza Washington hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of many Washington DC attractions: the White House, Smithsonian museums, Verizon Center, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, DuPont Circle, and Washington DC Convention Center. The hotel is one block from the orange and blue line of McPherson Metro station and 5 miles from Reagan National Airport.

With 7 elegantly appointed meeting rooms and an adjacent conference facility, the Hamilton Crowne Plaza is The Place to Meet, particularly if you need video conferencing capabilities and wireless high speed Internet access. Enjoy contemporary American fare and a casual setting in the 14K Restaurant, conversation and comfort at the unique round bar in the 14K Lounge.

Location. Location. Location. The Hamilton Crowne Plaza hotel is the place for business and leisure travelers in downtown Washington.

Hotel Indigo

Imagine, a 100% smoke free sophisticated boutique hotel whose focus is delivering guests peace, serenity and renewal. Quite deliberately the Hotel Indigo New York City-Chelsea has been designed as an oasis for travelers who yearn for an escape from the common hotel, but still need the convenience of a 24-hour fitness center and a world class restaurant.

Hotel Indigo New York City-Chelsea, located in the heart of Manhattan, provides convenience to dynamic shopping, the lights of Broadway, vigorous nightlife, and art galleries.

Hotel Indigo offers each guest a blend of modern contemporary living with the best in traditional hotel hospitality. Curl up in our over-sized beds with plush bedding, duvet covers and plenty of fluffy pillows. Complimentary wireless Internet access throughout the hotel is at your fingertips or use our business center if you prefer.

Relax and enjoy our exclusive restaurant for cutting edge cuisine or grab a Starbucks latte.

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites

Located in the heart of world-famous Hollywood, California, our uniquely designed hotel appeals to style-oriented guests desiring exceptional service and comfortable amenities.

During your stay at the Holiday Inn Express Hollywood, take time to tour the city and see all that Hollywood has to offer. We are centrally located near several historic tourist attractions such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Hollywood Bowl, Universal Studios, Paramount Studios, Sunset Strip, Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Our hip hotel in Hollywood is the perfect place to stay as you explore the city.

Built in 2008, our brand new Hollywood hotel is perfect for business travelers. We provide an alternative to local, traditional hotels without sacrificing any of the business amenities you expect. Our Hollywood hotel near the Los Angeles Airport (LAX) is just 20 min from the LA Convention Center and in close proximity to the LA Business District, the Century City Business District, ABC, NBC, the Warner Center and CNN.

At the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites in Hollywood, CA, we provide an oasis that inspires and re-energizes travelers. From our hip lobby and state-of-the-art fitness center to the convenient high-speed Internet access and a delicious, free hot breakfast bar, this Hollywood hotel provides all the amenities to make your trip to California a great one.

Holiday Inn

SAN FRANCISCO-GOLDEN GATEWAY

The Holiday Inn Hotel San Francisco Golden Gateway is located in the center of San Francisco, just steps away from the historic California Cable Car turnaround.

Located in lower Nob Hill, the Holiday Inn Hotel San Francisco Golden Gateway is near all major attractions: Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf , a few blocks from Union Square and Chinatown, and the hotel is less than 10 minutes from Moscone Convention Center , AT&T Ball Park , Candlestick Park and a couple blocks north of City Hall/Civic Center.

The 26-story, 499 room Holiday Inn Hotel San Francisco Golden Gateway offers fantastic city and bay views. Our tastefully appointed guest rooms begin on the 6th floor of the hotel and all offer flat panel TVs and free wireless Internet access.

Cafe' Marlette offers a daily buffet breakfast for quick and easy service, as well as a delicious a la carte menu. Interlude Bar & Grill is a casual bistro and sports bar, with pool tables, and large screen TVs.

The Holiday Inn Hotel San Francisco Golden Gateway is the perfect location for business or pleasure in the city by the bay.

Cities of USA

2009-08-17T09:19:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles

The heart of America's entertainment industry, Los Angeles is the city where people come to see and be seen. Famous streets such as Hollywood and Sunset Boulevard are consistently bustling, and the Walk of Fame and the prints outside Grauman's Chinese Theatre are can't-miss sights for the star struck. The Pacific Ocean's sandy beaches draw crowds out to areas like Venice Beach and Santa Monica for sunbathing, people watching and surfing. Entire districts of LA are dedicated to various predominant nationalities and are a great place for cultural exploration and good, cheap food. The complex blend of cultures has made LA one of the top restaurant destinations in the country, with innovative chefs creating new fusions of ethnic specialties.

San Francisco

Situated on a peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and its namesake bay, San Francisco is a compact city overflowing with cultural variety. The Russian Hill neighborhood contains the famous twisting block of Lombard Street and due east lies Chinatown, known for its bustling markets and authentic eats. On the northern side of the city, the restaurants at Fisherman's Wharf serve excellent seafood dishes while its pier is often filled with sea lions basking in the Californian sun. Farther west, the Presidio of San Francisco offers historical army buildings set on some of the most beautiful land in the city. Connected to the northern edge of the park, the Golden Gate Bridge provides fantastic sights out over the water.

New York

Bustling with activity, New York City is a place of vibrant energy, modern thought and national history. With each neighborhood and district sporting its own particular flair in cuisine, shopping and culture, there is more to see in the city than can be done in a day or even a week. Central Park, with its many family-oriented attractions, and the world-famous Statue of Liberty are just two of New York City's must-see spots. "The City That Never Sleeps" is an ideal place to indulge with an extravagant night out at an upscale restaurant followed by a Broadway show or shopping at the chicest stores in the nation. New sights and experiences are around virtually every corner in this hub of American commerce and culture.

Washington

The hub of national politics and a center of international interaction, Washington, D.C. is a bustling city rich with history and cultural flavor from around the globe. Walking between the government buildings, the sense of history and power in the downtown area is almost overwhelming. Some of the nation's most recognized buildings circle the National Mall, including the towering Washington Monument, the Capitol Building, the National Gallery of Art and the Smithsonian museums. Institutions such as Georgetown University and American University round out the city's reputation as a place of higher learning and modern culture.

Economy of USA

2009-08-17T09:13:00.001-07:00

This mini-publication discusses the factors that make the U.S. economy the world's most productive, competitive, and influential. It focuses on workers and productivity, small and large business, the service economy, goods and services, the role of government, and the concept of "creative destruction," the process where jobs, companies, entire industries come and go because of their success or failure in the marketplace. USA Economy in Brief includes colorful charts to illustrate, for instance, U.S. annual exports and imports and the U.S. trade deficit.

Culture of USA

2009-08-17T09:03:00.000-07:00

Meeting and Greeting

Greetings are casual.
A handshake, a smile, and a 'hello' are all that is needed.
Smile!
Use first names, and be sure to introduce everyone to each other.

Gift Giving Etiquette

In general, Americans give gifts for birthdays, anniversaries and major holidays, such as Christmas.
A gift can be as simple as a card and personal note to something more elaborate for a person with whom you are close.
Gift giving is not an elaborate event, except at Christmas.
When invited to someone's home for dinner, it is polite to bring a small box of good chocolates, a bottle of wine, a potted plant or flowers for the hostess.
Gifts are normally opened when received.

Dining Etiquette

Americans socialise in their homes and ‘backyards’, in restaurants and in other public places.
It's not at all unusual for social events to be as casual as a backyard barbecue or a picnic in the park.
Arrive on time if invited for dinner; no more than 10 minutes later than invited to a small gathering. If it is a large party, it is acceptable to arrive up to 30 minutes later than invited.
Table manners are more relaxed in the U.S. than in many other countries.
The fork is held in the right hand and is used for eating. The fork is held tines down. The knife is used to cut or spread something. To use the knife, the fork is switched to the left hand. To continue eating, the fork is switched back to the right hand.
If you have not finished eating, cross your knife and fork on your plate with the fork over the knife. Indicate you have finished eating by laying your knife and fork parallel across the right side of your plate.
If you are more comfortable eating in the Continental manner, go ahead. It will not offend anyone.
Feel free to refuse specific foods or drinks without offering an explanation.
Many foods are eaten by hand.
Food is often served family-style, which means that it is in large serving dishes and passed around the table for everyone to serve themselves.
Do not begin eating until the hostess starts or says to begin.
Remain standing until invited to sit down.
Do not rest your elbows on the table.
Put your napkin in your lap as soon as you sit down.
Leave a small amount of food on your plate when you have finished eating.

History of United States

2009-08-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

The first known inhabitants of the modern-day United States are believed to have arrived over a period of several thousand years beginning sometime prior to 15,000 - 50,000 years ago by crossing Beringia into Alaska.^[1]^[2] Solid evidence of these cultures settling in what would become United States territory is dated to around 14,000 years ago.^[3]

Research has revealed much about the early Native American settlers of North America. Christopher Columbus' men were the first documented Old Worlders to land in the territory of what is now the United States when they arrived in Puerto Rico during their second voyage in the year 1493.^[4] Juan Ponce de León, who arrived in Florida in 1513, is credited as being the first European to land in what is now the continental United States,^[5] although some evidence suggests that John Cabot might have reached what is presently New England in 1498.^[6]^[7]

The coming of Europeans began the Colonial history of the United States. The Thirteen Colonies, British colonies that would become the original U.S. states, were founded along what is now the country's east coast beginning in 1607, but various other European powers also founded settlements in what would become U.S. territory, both before and later. Due to growing disatisfaction with British rule, the thirteen British colonies fought off the British army in the American Revolutionary War of the 1770s and issued a Declaration of Independence in 1776. In early 1781, the Union of the States was legally established; half a year before the end of hostilities in the Revolutionary War. Two years later, Britain officially recognized the sovereignity and independence of the United States in the Treaty of Paris.^[8] In the nineteenth century, westward expansion of United States territory began, upon the belief of Manifest Destiny, in which the United States would occupy all the North American land east to west, from the Atlantic to the Pacific Oceans. By 1912, with the admission of Arizona to the Union, the U.S. reached that goal. The outlying states of Alaska and Hawaii were both admitted in 1959.

Ratified in 1788, the Constitution serves as the supreme American law in organizing the government; the Supreme Court is responsible for upholding Constitutional law. Many forms of social progress started in the nineteenth century; those advancements have been widely reflected in the Constitution. Slavery was abolished in 1865 by the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution; the following Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments respectively guaranteed citizenship for all persons naturalized within U.S. territory and voting for people of all races. In later years, civil rights were extended to women and black Americans, following effective lobbying from social activists. The Nineteenth Amendment prohibited gender discrimination in voting rights; later, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 outlawed racial segregation in public places.

The Progressive Era marked a time of economic growth for the United States, advancing to the Roaring Twenties. However, the Wall Street Crash of 1929 led to the Great Depression, a time of economic downturn and mass unemployment. Consequently, the U.S. government established the New Deal, a series of reform programs that intended to assist those affected by the Depression. The New Deal had varied success. However, once the U.S. entered World War II in December 1941, the economy quickly recovered, so much that the U.S. became a world superpower by the dawn of the Cold War. During the Cold War, the U.S. and the Soviet Union were the world's two superpowers, but with the end of the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union, the United States became the world's only superpower.

Picnic spots in United Kingdom

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Avon Valley Country Park

Avon Valley Country Park is located 4 ½ miles from the centres of both Bristol and Bath in the Avon Valley off the A4 near Keynsham along Pixash Lane. The park is open from spring to autumn from 10am-6pm, Mondays to Sundays, except bank holidays, (during children’s school holidays the park is open every day). There are concessions for senior citizens and under 2’s go free.

The park itself is designed as a riverside trail with well marked numbered signs with information about the many different animals, birds and plants. Along the nature trail there are fields of friendly and unusual animals including Shire Horses, Shetland Ponies, Fallow Deer and Donkeys, Llama and Wallabies, many breeds of Goat, Sheep and Cattle, several varieties of duck and wildfowl. Some of the animals are rare and exotic breeds and there is a compound with Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs. There are also pens with different kinds of Chickens, Turkeys and Geese and a special area containing the latest new-born baby additions to the park. There is a pet’s corner with guinea pigs, rabbits, goats chickens and a pony.

Small rowing boats are available free on the boating lake and there are also river boat trips. There are 20 good coarse fishing places along the 3/4 of a mile river park where you can catch carp, roach, perch, tench and eels.

Craigend Castle

Craigend Castle is situated in Mugdock Country Park near Milngavie, to the north of Glasgow. The castle was built in 1815 by James Smith and designed by Alexander Ramsay in a Regency Gothic style. Nearby Mugdock Castle also stands within Mugdock Country Park. Craigend was occupied variously by the Smith, Buchanan, Outram and Yarrow families, although it was later the home of Craigend Zoo towards the end of the 20^th Century.

Breathtaking cliffs: Rhossili Beach, South Wales

Situated on the tip of the Gower Peninsula with commanding views across the Bristol Channel and towards Pembrokeshire, Rhossili has spectacular cliffs, burial cairns and mysterious shipwrecks visible at low tide, so there is plenty for the family to see here. There is also plenty to do on the three-mile-long sandy beach that is popular with fisherman, surfers and bathers. The clifftop walks from the National Trust visitor centre to the old coastguard lookout combine activity with marvellous views out to Worms Head. There are plenty of places to eat in the nearby village of Rhossili with views of the beach stretching out into the distance.

Bedruthan Steps, Cornwall

Bedruthan Steps, Cornwall A few miles east of the manic crowds at Newquay, the Bedruthan Steps consist of a series of volcanic rock stacks, rising from the beach like mini mountains and making for a great walk along the fine white sand and the rugged coastline. The waves and the undercurrent are pretty rugged here too and swimming is prohibited.

The National Trust has created paths at the top of the cliffs to limit the damage caused by the many visitors. Steps down to the beach are steep; the name Bedruthan Steps originates from even steeper, treacherous, roughly cut steps that led to the beach in Victorian times.

Resorts in United Kingdom

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The Strand Palace

Location. The Strand Palace stands within the busy Strand district of London, England. Covent Garden is located two blocks away, and the River Thames flows two blocks from the hotel.
Hotel Features. The hotel's marble-clad lobby reflects is furnished with tropical flora and leather sofas. Restaurant options include the Strand Carvery that serves daily buffet-style breakfasts and offers a selection of grilled meats and a cold buffet. Open for dinner Monday to Saturday, and open for lunch on a Sunday. Johnston's Brasserie prepares modern European cuisine and continental buffet breakfasts. Mask Bar attracts a pre- and post-theater crowd, and boasts a bold black and orange colour scheme. Pub atmosphere predominates at Hops] Bar. Wireless Internet access is available in public areas of the hotel, and eight function rooms accommodate up to 200 guests. A shopping arcade includes a jewelers, and a souvenir shop.

Guestrooms. The Strand Palace offers 785 contemporary guestrooms distributed on nine floors. Rooms feature wireless Internet access for a surcharge, plasma TVs with digital channels and pay movies, and coffeemakers. In-room safes are provided. Club Rooms reflect earth-tone color schemes and feature laptop-compatible, in-room safes, Elemis toiletries, and include Virgin Active gym passes.

The May Fair

Location. The May Fair is positioned one block from the Green Park Underground Station in the glamorous May Fair district of London, England. Buckingham Palace is located five blocks away.
Hotel Features. A ruby-laden Baccarat chandelier presides over the hotel's lobby that showcases eclectic Russian, Thai, and Vietnamese objets d'art. Amba bar and grill serves British cuisine prepared in an exhibition kitchen. May Fair Bar features chic décor and serves their signature May Fair Mojito. Use of the 24-hour business centre is complimentary, while complimentary wireless Internet access is available throughout the hotel. Clef d'Or concierge staff lends sightseeing and reservation assistance. The hotel's complimentary fitness centre contains resistance and cardiovascular machines, each equipped with televisions. This fitness facility also contains a Power Plate that enhances workouts by means of vibration, an exercise regimen practiced by Madonna. Independently owned Casino Palm Beach can be accessed via the hotel lobby. The May Fair Wellness Center provides Zen-like atmosphere with jasmine waterfalls, granite heat-circuit floors, subdued lighting, steam rooms and Scottish and aroma showers. A full range of treatments includes Pevonia facials, Ayurvedic techniques, and Egyptian cleansing rituals.

Guestrooms. This nine-story hotel offers 406 air-conditioned guestrooms, all with contemporary décor featuring Asian design elements and individually selected artwork. Rooms reveal Italian-designed Cattelan beds with oversized leather headboards and built-in reading lamps. Select rooms feature Fendi furnishings and beds with ViSprung mattresses. Accommodations boast Quadria movie libraries and Bang & Olufsen entertainment systems with flat-screen televisions. Minibars are stocked to order. Marble bathrooms extend to dressing rooms, and are stocked with Gilchrist & Soames toiletries.

Renaissance Chancery Court

A Grade II listed building, the Renaissance Chancery Court is a grand, seven-storey Edwardian hotel located 500 metres from Covent Garden and West End theatres, and half a mile from the British Museum. The 356 guestrooms are all uniquely shaped due to the unusual structure of the building. All feature cherry-wood furniture, armchairs, objets d'art, and beds with Indian cotton pillowcases. Rooms come equipped with satellite television, video-game consoles, Internet connections, CD players, tea and coffee-making facilities, and minibars. Black-marble bathrooms include, bathrobes, heated mirrors and Penhaligon toiletries.
The hotel houses 11 meeting rooms, the largest of which can accommodate 400 people theatre-style. The business centre offers secretarial and support services, including fax and photocopying facilities. At the onsite spa, guests can unwind in the teak and gold-leaf relaxation room or sweat it out in the steam room and sauna. Ayurvedic and holistic therapies include traditional manicures and pedicures, and hot stone massage. Situated in one of the original banking halls, the Pearl Restaurant features marble columns and high ceilings. The à la carte menu offers modern European fare with an Oriental twist, and signature dishes include Rabbit Ravioli. The Bar at Chancery Court features mahogany panelling, green-leather sofas, and comfortable armchairs, and offers a lunch menu and bar snacks in the evening. The Lobby Lounge serves breakfast, a lunch buffet and traditional English afternoon tea. Guests can purchase Ede and Ravenscroft shirts in the boutique or visit the hair salon. The concierge and staff at the 24- hour front desk are on hand to advise on local sights and attractions. The hotel is situated 500 metres from the theatres of the West End and the shops, restaurants and nightlife of Covent Garden. London Heathrow Airport is 16 miles away and can be reached by car in around 50 minutes.

Quality Crown Hotel Paddington

Location. Located adjacent to Paddington Station, the contemporary Quality Crown Hotel Paddington stands within the Bayswater district of London, England. The Marble Arch entrance to Hyde Park is positioned 700 metres from the hotel.
Hotel Features. This stylish property offers dining at Garfunkel's Restaurant where the menu highlights international favorites. The Gallery Bar displays the works of local artists, and broadcasts sporting events on a wall-mounted, flat-screen television. Wireless Internet access is available throughout the hotel. Reception staff offer 24-hour business services and assist with sightseeing itineraries and reservations. A fitness center houses cardiovascular and strength-training equipment, and free weights.

Guestrooms. This smoke-free hotel offers 85 modern, air-conditioned guestrooms decorated with dark-toned furniture and earth-toned fabrics. All accommodations include wireless Internet access and flat-screen televisions equipped with satellite connections. Coffeemakers are included. In-room safes are provided. Bathrooms contain power showers, makeup mirrors and complimentary toiletries.

Cities of United Kingdom

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Birmingham

Birmingham is Britain's second largest city and is situated right in the heart of England. Friendly, bustling and thriving, Birmingham is one of our most visited cities and welcomes visitors all year long. Whether you come to Birmingham on business or pleasure, you will be delighted by the variety of things to see and do.

Home to the famous City of Birmingham Orchestra, and Birmingham Royal Ballet, Birmingham is a city of world class culture. Discover Birmingham's history in the museums and art galleries, stroll through it's centre and enjoy the diversity of shopping, from well known department stores to intriguing shopping malls and street markets.

Birmingham is the perfect base to tour from. You can enjoy outings to the historic and beautiful places in the Heart of England, which are all close by and surround the city.

Steeped in history and mentioned in the Domesday Book, records show that Birmingham was producing knives and tools as early as 1538. By 1639, Birmingham was manufacturing arms and supplied swords to the Parliamentarian side during the Civil War. When James Watt and Mathew Bolton perfected the design of the steam engine, in the late 18th century, Birmingham's proximity to the coal and iron deposits in north Warwickshire, quickly enabled it to become the principal centre of commerce and industry.

Earning it the title of "the city of a thousand trades" because of its vast diversity of manufacturing. Birmingham is still an important manufacturing centre today, producing among many other things, Chocolate, Cars and Jewellery.

Birmingham has always been a progressive city and has made innovative diversification: Recognising the potential of convention business, Birmingham has turned itself into one of the great meeting places in Europe, and home to three of the most prestigious venues of events and conferences.

Situated in the city centre is the International Convention Centre, which hosts meetings of world leaders in industry and politics. Members of the public are welcome to visit the centre, where they can enjoy the cosmopolitan atmosphere. The ICC is also the home of the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, in an elegant hall renowned for its wonderful acoustics.

Near by is the National Indoor Arena, which hosts shows and TV spectaculars, as well as many international sporting events.

London

London is a rich array of heritage sites, beautiful parks and natural areas, exceptional sports and community recreation facilities and a year-round calendar of special events are just a sampling of the many attractions that make London such an appealing place to enjoy leisure time.

Within the City Life topic links, you are sure to find activities and entertainment that cater to your special interests. You may even discover diversions you didn't know existed in London! For example, you have a comprehensive resource to learn about the flourishing artistic and cultural community in the portal website London arts.

Plenty of useful community information is also available on topics as broad as immigration to Ontario and as specific as city of London grant funding currently available.

Edinburgh

Built on extinct volcanoes atop an inlet from the North Sea (the Firth of Forth) and enveloped by rolling hills, lakes (lochs), and forests, Edinburgh invites exploration. This is a city of elegant streets, cobbled alleys, and incomparable sunsets.

Edinburgh (pronounced Edin-burra) is also a busy, noisy place with a spectacular landscape of hills and crags. The buildings of this vibrant capital city , from the historic houses of the Royal Mile to the elegant Georgian terraces and crescents of the New Town, offer the perfect complement to the natural setting. The city's layout is linear, in a pattern set by Castle Rock and Castle Ridge, down which the Royal Mile descends to the palace of Holyroodhouse. North of this lies a shallow valley holding the lovely Princes Street Gardens, with Waverley Station, the city's main railroad station at the eastern end. Above the gardens, and to the north is Edinburgh's main street, Princes Street. This is an ideal vantage point from which to view the castle and Old Edinburgh.

Edinburgh's famous castle is especially beautiful. Upon entering the city, it commands immediate attention. The eye of the visitor is drawn to the impressive structure rising high above everything else on its sheer granite cliffs. There are incredible panoramic views from the upper stories of the castle, including a clear view of the distant sea. The castle sits high on the huge rock formation that juts out as if in defiance of any who would seek to invade Edinburgh. Castle Rock, as it is known, is inaccessible on three sides, and has a long, descending ridge on the fourth side.

Studded with volcanic hills, Edinburgh has an incomparable location on the southern edge of the enormous Firth (River) of Forth. From the west end, beyond craggy Arthur's Seat and over the waters of the Firth of Forth, can be seen the Old and New Towns. Most of the city's sights are contained within these two districts: The Old Town is crowded with multistoried tenements dating from the 15th century and has ancient winding streets dotted with closes (entrances) and wynds (alleyways) on either side. The New Town, on the other hand, presents an orderly arrangement of Georgian buildings and a symmetrical grid of streets.

The effect of sightseeing in these two areas is that of stepping back in time, while still being in the present. At the same moment, you are in a totally intact medieval city, with all the original buildings, yet the people around you are from the modern day, and stores as we know them are functioning within the ancient structures. The contrast is incredible.

To the north of the city center is Leith, Edinburgh's main port, which has shed its rough, waterfront image to become a fashionable area of pubs and restaurants. Leith Links is a favorite with golfers. The Links claim to be one of the earliest sites of the great game, in fact, dating from 1593 when the first set of the official rules was formulated there.

Portobello to the east is where Edinburgh's citizens and summer visitors spend time on the beach. To the west, medieval South Queensferry sits in the shadow of two large bridges that span the Firth of Forth. To the south, near Holyrood Park, is picturesque Duddingston. The attractive streets of Duddingston run down to a loch which is part of a bird sanctuary. It is always thronged with geese and other interesting waterfowl.

Edinburgh is a fine destination for a family vacation. Small children will delight in just running up and down the Royal Mile. A ride on the double decker bus is also a treat. Older children will rise to the challenge of climbing the steps to Arthur's Seat, and exploring what remains of the castle. The important things to keep in mind are to vary the activities of the day and to move at a leisurely pace. As long as children have ample opportunities to exercise and play, and have meals at regular intervals, they can tolerate and even enjoy many of the museums and exhibits that are of interest to adults. Plan the day and then cross off about half of that ambitious schedule, and add time to "run in the park" or "watch the geese on the pond", and you have the basic ingredients for a day of smiles and good humor.

Edinburgh is filled with historic and literary association: John Knox, Mary Queen of Scots, Robert Louis Stevenson, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (creator of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson), Alexander Graham Bell, Sir Walter Scott, and Bonnie Prince Charlie are all part of its past.

Many visitors entering into the ongoing debate over which is the best tasting malt whisky served in Edinburgh. The contenders are many: Highland malts, Lowland malts, Campeltown malts, Islay malts, to name a few. Many other nations have tried to replicate Scotch whisky, but none has succeeded. There is no way to authentically reproduce the Scottish combination of damp climate and soft water flowing through the peat at just the right temperature to produce the malt that forms the basis of the beverage.

Edinburgh's close proximity to England, and its multicultural, sophisticated population set it apart. Its vibrant pub and club scene, its college population combined with the ever-growing Edinburgh International Festival and action packed list of cultural events, make this a city that is truly cosmopolitan and renowned world-wide.

Economy of United Kingdom

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The economy of United Kingdom comes under the group of High Income OECD countries according to the classification of economies by income and region, FY 2005 made by the World Bank. UK is considered as the fourth largest economy in the world, with Gross National income of $ 1680.6 billions (2003). In terms of purchasing power parity, Per capita GNI in 2003 was US $ 27,460. Average annual growth rate of GDP was 2.2 % during 2003.

Among the various sectors of the economy, the share of manufacturing in the UK economy has declined relative to the services sector. The service sector accounts for two-thirds of GDP, while manufacturing represents less than 20% of national output. Presently it is the world's leading trading power and financial centre. The financial and business services sector as a whole accounts for over 70% of GDP.

History of United Kingdom

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On May 1, 1707, the Kingdom of England (including Wales) and the Kingdom of Scotland merged as a political union known as the United Kingdom of Great Britain. This is the result of agreed terms, signed by parliaments of England and Scotland, under the Treaty of Union. Queen Anne is the first monarch of the United Kingdom of Great Britain.

The Act of Union 1800 merged the Kingdom of Great Britain with the Kingdom of Ireland to create the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland On January 1, 1801. This is the result of several centuries of historic events including the invasions of ruling Normans in Ireland, the Irish Rebellion of 1641, and War of American Independence. The union eliminated the separate Parliaments of Great Britain and Ireland creating an integrated Parliament of the United Kingdom. Ireland sent roughly 100 MPs to the House of Commons and 28 peers to the House of Lords.

During the 19th and early 20th century, the rise of Irish Nationalism emerged particularly in the Catholic population. Movement for the cancellation of the Act of Union is known as “Home Rule” and many campaigns have failed including the one in 1912 that passed the House of Commons but was voted out in the House of Lords. In 1916, an one-sidedly declared “Irish Republic” was announced in Dublin and resulted to the Anglo-Irish War that lasts until 1921. The Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921 formed the Irish Free State and left the British Commonwealth without constitutional ties with UK and 6 northern Irish counties remained part of the United Kingdom. The Royal and Parliamentary Titles Act 1927 renamed the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland to United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Picnic spots in South Africa

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Vaal River

The banks of the Vaal River in the Northern Cape of South Africa offer so much more than a quiet picnic. The river begins in the Drakensberg and flows into the Orange near Douglas, which in turns flows all the way to the Atlantic Ocean on the West Coast at Alexander Bay between South Africa and Namibia. Vaal means grey and is in contrast to the Orange River, which looks orange from the iron rich earth it flows through. I grew up on a farm, which had several miles of river boundary and pretty much all the good stuff happened at the river. Though we were constantly told that it was treacherous and dangerous, it flowed most of the time peacefully enough. It was a place for much needed solitude in a big family, as well as lively communal outings. Either way, its broad and stately flow restored our small human equanimity and perspective. On every walk we hoped to spot a leguan - its much diminished prehistoric menace still enough to break a leg with a swoop of its tail, its evil lidless stare enough still to thrill with brief fear as it slithers off a dead tree from which it is barely distinguishable into the water with not so much as a splash.

Less sinister but more dangerous were the boomslangs, which might suddenly slide over your shoulder as you walked under a tree or surprise you with a sudden hissing in the grass. Usually their fear exceeded ours and they were gone before we had properly registered their presence and walked on with only the hyena’s laugh or the bark of a baboon to disturb the silence. But it was not all dangerous – there was much that was peaceful and lovely, too. A particular joy was to see the kingfisher perched on a waving branch above the water, looking intently into the swirling grey mass before plummeting into it to emerge with a glittering squirming fish as it shot back up. The stillness of the veld became pregnant at the river, where the birds sang more readily, especially in the evenings when the world finally cooled down – also more quickly at the river. We listened especially for the wild high mournful cry of the fish-eagle and more carefully for the bubbling sound of the vlei lourie (Burchall’s Coucal) which promised rain.

Anything could happen at the river: it was a place to play, to take the horses and the dogs. It was a place to go searching for treasure - not entirely fanciful as alluvial diamonds are to be found there. We never found diamonds ourselves, though others did, but we did find a wonderful selection of agates and garnets and quartz. The ‘proper diggers’, as we called them, were a source of great fascination for us: they lived from one find to another – one week like kings and 51 other weeks like paupers and it seemed to matter not one jot to them where on this roller-coaster they found themselves at any particular time. Everyone went to the river – for various reasons: for walking for drawing, for fishing or digging, for wonder – alone or en familie. I can think of no better spot for a picnic.

Bushman’s Hill

Bushman’s Hill was another destination for an outing – either alone or with guests. Though we rarely picnicked on the actual hill – it would have seemed profane, I think. The hill stood not far from Big Tree (where we would eat) and dreamed of days long gone in the heat. On arrival we would scramble out and the hunt would begin – for the paintings, which gave the hill it’s name. They would surprise and delight at least partly because they were so hard to find. Delicate, faded – barely even there, the san rock paintings lay in the sun on this hillside a timeless joy.

They depicted, and depict still, a world and a way of life unimaginably different to our own. A precarious existence it seemed on the very edge of the possible. They made the desert inhabitable and yet have left so little trace of this feat. Perhaps part of its wonder lies in that – that it was so lightly done. So very unlike our own heavy existence on the world – carbon foot-printed as it is. The paintings were light, for all they are painted or even carved onto rock

Each of us had our favourites: I remember an Eland, proud clean ochre on a grey rock and giraffes and of course the people. Hunters or dancers – they were tiny and graceful and seemed to dance right out of the rock surface they were painted on or entirely unaware of their audience seemed to be heading into the rock – where another world beckoned. And much that I have learned about San rock art and its meaning, ritual and profound since, has confirmed these impressions.

Near the foot of the hill lay, perhaps ironically, the graveyard of the first missionaries to Pniel Estates. And a little further off the ruins of their houses. We wandered through these modest ruins and tried to imagine the life they led. Much maligned in history for being the fore-runners of colonial exploitation, the two clashing worlds lay here peacefully side by side: both gone except in some even more remote parts of Botswana.

Le Pique Nique - Boschendal

During the summer months Boschendal’s Le Pique-Nique area provides the ideal setting for an al fresco lunch of pre-packed picnics served in wicker baskets.

Tables and chairs are set in the shade, under the lofty, fragrant pine trees - perfect for a relaxed summer afternoon.

Collect your basket filled with pâtés, French bread, cold meats, salads, and cheese and biscuits and relax and enjoy the warm sun.
To complete the meal, dessert and coffee are served from the gazebo. The wine list offers the full range of Boschendal’s finest wines to enjoy with your picnic and to enhance your "Boschendal experience".

Chapman’s Peak Drive

Chapman’s Peak Drive is known as one of Cape Town’s most scenic drives. There are a few designated picnic spots, as well as numerous viewing spots, where you can pull off the road and enjoy this fantastic picnic setting. On warm days Chapman’s Peak is very popular with picnic goers as the views from the drive are spectacular. In summer, late afternoon is the ideal time to picnic as it’s not as hot and you have the pleasure of the sun setting over the tranquil Hout Bay. The length of the drive allows you to find your own peaceful spot where you can spread out your blanket, snacks and drinks and take pleasure in the panoramic views. Between sunrise and sunset you can get a half way pass if you are not driving to the other end of Chapman’s Peak, therefore avoiding the toll fee.

Resorts in South Africa

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Ambassador Hotel

Location. A Sea-facing Hotel In Exclusive Bantry Bay, Cape Town, South Africa, The Ambassador Hotel Lies Within One Kilometre Of Clifton's Four Beaches, And Six Kilometres From The Centre Of Cape Town.

Hotel Features. The Hotel's Scenic Pool Area Is Set Metres Away From The Rocks And Sea And Offers Guests A Private Spot For Sunbathing With A Drink From The Bar, And For Enjoying The Sounds Of The Ocean. The Hotel Offers A Complimentary Daily Shuttle Service To And From The Famous Victoria And Alfred Waterfront, Renowned For Its Restaurants, Shops And Boat Cruises Around The Harbour Area. Practical Amenities At The Hotel Include A Currency Exchange Service, A Pharmacy, A Mediterranean Delicatessen, And High-speed Internet Connections In Public Areas.

The Ambassador Hotel Offers A Complimentary Full English Breakfast. Guests Can Dine In The Ocean-facing Restaurant, Which Specialises In Fresh Seafood And Has Its Own Crayfish Tank, Or Enjoy Poolside Barbecues In The Evening.

The Cape Royale Luxury Hotel And Residence

Location. The Cape Royale Luxury Hotel And Residence Is Located In Cape Town, South Africa, One Kilometre From Two Oceans Aquarium And The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, And Two Kilometres From Clifton And Camps Bay Beaches; Table Mountain Is Three Kilometres Away.
Hotel Features. This Contemporary Hotel Has A 24-Hour Front Desk With Concierge Services, And Complimentary Newspapers Are Available In The Lobby.

Cape Royale Luxury Hotel And Residence Has A Number Of Contemporary Restaurants, Including The Tuscan Restaurant Mix, Which Has A Michelin Star Chef, And 1800?, Which Specialises In Steaks; There Is Also An Onsite Coffee Shop.

The Hotel Has A Business Centre, And Its Public Areas Offer Complimentary Internet Access; Computers Are Available For A Surcharge.

There Is A Health Club And Full-service Health Spa On Site, Including Eight Treatment Rooms; There Is Also A Bar And Swiming pool on the roof.

The Westin Grand Cape Town Arabella Quays

The Westin Grand Cape Town Arabella Quays Is A Modern, 19-Floor Hotel Overlooking The Vibrant Victoria And Alfred Waterfront, Five Kilometres From The Beaches At Camps Bay. The 483 Air-conditioned Guestrooms Feature Contemporary Decor. All Offer Satellite Television, Internet Access, Cordless Direct-dial Telephones With Voicemail, Minibars And Safes. Bathrooms Have Double Washbasins And Complimentary Designer Toiletries.
The Hotel Offers An E-butler Service, Available 24 Hours A Day, Helping With Any Queries Guests May Have, And There Is Also 24-Hour Room Service And A Front Desk Staffed Around The Clock. The Hotel Is Also Equipped With An Indoor Pool, Gymnasium, Steam Room, And Sauna, Plus The Altira Spa, On The 19th Floor, Provides A Full Range Of Treatments With Panoramic Views Of Cape Town And Table Bay. Guests Can Relax With A Drink In Two Cafes, Or One Of The Two Bars, And The Hotel's Facilities Also Include Gift Shops And Boutiques, Valet Parking, A Hair Salon, A Limo Service, Babysitting Services And A Fully Equipped Business Centre. There Is Also Hi-speed Internet In Public Areas. The Hotel Is Well Placed For Exploring Cape Town And The Surrounding Area; Robben Island Is An Hour's Boat Trip Away, And The Langa Township Is 20 Kilometres Away. Cape Town International Airport Is 22 Kilometres Away, A 30-Minute Drive.

The Modern Protea Hotel President

Location. The Modern Protea Hotel President Is Located In Cape Town, South Africa, In The City's Vibrant Bantry Bay Area, 500 Metres From Sea Point Beaches. Signal Hill And Clifton And Camps Bay Beaches Are Within Five Kilometres, While The Bustling Shops And Nightlife Of The Victoria And Alfred Waterfront Are Six Kilometres Away. The Hotel Is Seven Kilometres From Table Mountain.
Hotel Features. Offering Sea Views, The Six- Storey Protea Hotel President Is Nestled Around The Large Outdoor Swimming Pool. Inside, The Sleek Lobby Provides A 24-Hour Front Desk Offering Tourist Information On All Cape Town's Attractions And A Babysitting Service. Parking Is Complimentary At The Hotel.

At Protea Hotel President, Islands Restaurant Has A Nautical Theme Indoors And An Outdoor Terrace For Alfresco Dining. Traditional South African Dishes And Cape Wines Are Served For Lunch And Dinner And There Is Live Entertainment In The Evenings. The Oceanfront Senate Bar Serves Cocktails.

The Protea Hotel President Has A Business Centre. Small Groups Can Be Accommodated In The Meeting Rooms. Wireless Internet Access Is Available In Public Areas.

Cities Of South Africa

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Cape Town

Perched between the ocean and the mountain, with a national park as its heart, there is nowhere like Cape Town. Cape Town, the "Mother City", is the oldest city in South Africa and has a cultural heritage spanning more than 300 years.

The unique topography of the region makes it easy to orientate oneself as long as you remember that with Table Mountain behind you and Robben Island before you, you are facing north, looking across Table Bay and up the west coast of Africa.

It is in Cape Town that the Rainbow Nation really covers the spectrum. Between beautiful Cape Dutch homesteads, traditional dancers with painted faces performing in the streets, the smell of spicy Malay cooking and the taste of a well-made wine, this city will fill your senses.

The bells of St George's Cathedral alternate with the plaintive tones of the muezzin calling the faithful to prayer. Visitors give a startled jump, and Capetonians calmly glance at their watches, when the noon gun booms above the city - a relic from the days of sail when sea captains had to check their chronometers.

It has the top five national attractions in South Africa, all of which should appear on every visitor’s itinerary all year round. These include a visit up Table Mountain, either by cable car or manually climbing up routes of varying degrees of difficulty; and the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, internationally acclaimed as one of the great botanical gardens of the world.

The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, one of the city's main tourist attractions, offers the visitor a unique shopping and holiday experience on a scenic working harbour. Currently undergoing expansion, the complex features shops, restaurants, launch areas for short cruises and a variety of entertainment for those who flock through it by day and night.

Looking further offshore, visitors can take a boat ride to Robben Island, the former home of Nelson Mandela and several other political prisoners who fought against the apartheid government. Visitors to the island are taken on a tour of the old prison complex, as well as to a museum on the island.

Bloemfontein

Bloemfontein is the capital of the Free State. A pretty, medium-sized city, it lives up to its name which means "spring of flowers". There are thousands of rose bushes lining the streets, which create a wonderful spectacle most of the year, but especially in spring.

In the middle of the city is a small nature reserve called Naval Hill, where you can go for walks and see small game. Also nearby is the orchid house - another tribute to that lovely name.

Bloemfontein was the capital of the independent Boer republic of the Orange Free State until the Union of South Africa was declared in 1910, when it was made the judicial capital of South Africa. It is still the site of the Supreme Court of Appeal.

There are a number of museums dedicated to subjects ranging from natural history to warfare. Probably the most poignant memorial is the Women's Monument, erected to commemorate the tens of thousands of women and children who died in British concentration camps during the South African war (Anglo-Boer War).

Bloemfontein is very conveniently situated as a stopover point if you're driving between Cape Town and Johannesburg, and it is the closest major city to the Kingdom of Lesotho.

Johannesburg

Johannesburg is the major international gateway into South Africa so you are quite likely to spend, at the very least, a few hours in this rather misunderstood and misrepresented city. It's a vibrant and dynamic place with a throbbing pulse and an awesome sense of rhythm.

Everyone is on the move - doing business, making money, jogging, going to gym, cycling, partying till late, eating out, and attending shows, movies and exhibitions. If you're a city person, you will love Johannesburg.

The older part of the city is developing an interesting character - in parts somewhat neglected and a bit scary, and in parts humming with a new kind of vibrancy.

It is the de facto capital of Africa - in the centre of Johannesburg, you will find people from all over the continent, and in some pretty unusual and out-of-the way venues, you can sample their cuisine and jive to their music - not for the faint of heart, though.

Also in the city centre is the Civic Theatre, and the Newtown Cultural Project, with Museum Africa. But the head offices of major corporations, and the majority of businesses, have moved out to the northern suburbs and to Midrand - the burgeoning industrial, commercial, semi-agricultural and residential area halfway between Johannesburg and Pretoria.

The northern suburbs radiate a sense of opulence and prosperity. The many shopping malls carry a vast range of high quality consumer goods, including many luxuries, and the hundreds of restaurants and coffee shops offer a wide range of fashionable cuisines.

There really is a lot to do in Johannesburg. You could go on an escorted tour of Soweto, which is not the voyeuristic horror it sounds like. It's actually a mind-expanding experience as you see not only how other people live, but also how this resilient community contributed to South Africa's liberation struggle.

A visit to Gold Reef City is a fun day out with amusement rides and a reconstructed mining village, but it is a lot more authentic than most theme parks. The trip down a gold mine is a real eye-opener, but that's nothing compared to the paradigm shift many people may experience in visiting the Apartheid Museum, also at Gold Reef City.

And for the golf enthusiast, Johannesburg is a wonderful destination. The city boasts an ideal climate for spending time out on the fairways under the bright African sun, and golfers here are blessed for choice - there are golf courses aplenty in the city and more widely in its province, Gauteng.

Soweto

Infused with the history of the struggle against apartheid and abuzz with the energy of the city of gold, Soweto is a must-see for tourists who are looking for more than sun, sea and the big five.

With heritage sites, restaurants, shebeens and budget accommodation options aplenty, Soweto is well worth visiting, whether on a day tour or for a longer period to experience the real Soweto – a place of friendship, vibrancy and contrasts.

Soweto is the most populous black urban residential area in the country, with Census 2001 putting its population at close to a million. Thanks to its proximity to Johannesburg, the economic hub of the country, it is also the most metropolitan township in the country - setting trends in politics, fashion, music, dance and language.

Pretoria, city of jacarandas

Known as the Jacaranda City for all the purple blossom-bedecked trees which line its thoroughfares, Pretoria is a lovely, quiet city. It has a long, involved and fascinating history.

Here you will find many significant old buildings and some fascinating museums. The Transvaal Museum has wonderful natural history displays and is the home of Mrs Ples, the australopithecine fossil found at Sterkfontein in the Cradle of Humankind. Also worth visiting are the Cultural History Museum and the Smuts Museum, just outside town.

Probably the most heartening thing about the new government in South Africa is that, unlike many successful revolutionaries, we have not gone on an iconoclastic, monument-topping orgy. The Union Buildings changed overnight from a symbol of white, neo-colonial unity to one of true unity, and the iconic Voortrekker Monument still stands.

Ironically, though, the bust of one of apartheid's most ardent supporters, JG Strydom, which stood in Strydom Square near the State Theatre, toppled without any help other than gravity and the erosive quality of time on steel supports - on the 40th anniversary of the day South Africa became a white-governed republic.

It's a great town - there are quite a few open spaces where you can walk or mountain bike. Nearby is the Premier Game Reserve, next door to the Cullinan Diamond Mine, where the largest diamond in the world was found.

You could do a short horse trail at the Voortrekker Monument or through the Premier Reserve, taking a careful look at some white rhino and a number of eland - which are pretty much the size of a big horse. You could do a tandem skydive or a first jump at the Pretoria Skydiving Club, which is the largest in the country

Economy of South Africa

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Emerging from a long period when it was a pariah nation because of its racial policies, South Africa is an attractive emerging economy that is both modern and diversified. Paradoxically, the country still exhibits many of the characteristics of a less developed nation, including a distorted distribution of wealth and a thriving informal sector economy whose interactions are outside the law. The agricultural, industrial, and service sectors are well developed, however, and government plans to improve services and economic access to the poor and dispossessed offer the promise of modernizing the lagging elements of the economy.

The dominant forces which shaped South Africa's economy in the modern era exhibited themselves in 8 main periods. From 1910 to 1922, British influence dominated in economic and political terms, and a racially-segregated community was structured. When economic nationalism was born from 1922 to 1933, white mineworkers and farmers tried to establish a welfare state in South Africa. Between 1933 and 1948 English political power dominated again, and industrialization in South Africa occurred with less government interference. From 1948 to 1960 was the period of Afrikaner ascendancy (Afrikaners were the descendants of the original Dutch and German settlers). Between 1960 and 1973, black urbanization became important as a strong social force, and attempts were made to impart further institutional force to apartheid (the nation's official policy of racial segregation) via the homeland policies of President Verwoerd. The sixth period, between 1973 and 1984, was characterized by industrialization and the realization that the racial policy was economically damaging to the country. The seventh period stretches from 1984 to 1994, and can be seen as a period of transition during which economic growth decreased, mainly due to economic sanctions placed on South Africa by many nations. The eighth period started when apartheid ended and a democratic election took place in April 1994. The new government elected at this time initiated economic reforms intended to establish South Africa as a dynamic and more internationally competitive economy.

The free elections of 1994 became possible thanks to changes that had been occurring for years, as the government slowly removed many of the barriers to black political and economic participation. A new constitution, approved in 1993, followed by a plea by African National Congress (ANC) president Nelson Mandela (the nation's foremost black political leader) for foreign nations to lift sanctions led to a pledge of US$850 million in economic aid for South Africa by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). International financing sources saw the IMF funding as a signal to international investors that South Africa was a safe place in which to invest. International investment bankers and large Wall Street investment companies began trading with South Africa, thus opening the way to the current economic era.

The development of the South African economy has seen a long-term transfer from production based on agriculture to production based on industries. Once this transition had been made there was a period of sustained accumulation of physical and human capital. Consumers' spending patterns changed from spending on basic items and essential goods to spending on diverse manufactured and luxury items.

The nation's geography and topography have a significant influence on the country's economic development. The fact that South Africa has vast mineral resources is one of the reasons for its economic survival. In many cases, the country possesses large percentages of the world's known reserves of certain minerals, for example 88 percent of platinum group metals, 83 percent of manganese, and 72 percent of chromium reserves.

Since its early history, South Africa was shaped by its location on major global trade routes. In fact the country's oldest city, Cape Town, grew from a catering station for passing ships, established almost 350 years ago by the Dutch East India Company. Given that relationships between South Africa and other African countries have improved, the country's location on the African continent has earned it the title, "Gateway to Africa." South Africa has a rich variety of natural assets, making it an important eco-tourist destination. The wide variety of habitats accommodate numerous animal species.

South Africa has vast farmlands and climatic conditions that are ideal for agricultural activities. Even though South Africa has an erratic climate, its relatively large supply of arable land and modern methods employed in commercial agriculture are major reasons why it is largely self-sufficient in food supply.

Despite many good economic indicators in South Africa, though, the crime rate has risen to unacceptable levels. Particularly the high occurrence of violent crimes has led to the widespread belief that the police, judicial system, and correctional services are unable to cope with the problem. Large-scale black-market activities further fuel the crime wave in South Africa. Affirmative action, high taxes, and the rising crime rate have contributed to a renewed skills drain as many highly trained workers leave the country, a movement of workers the government needs to stop in order to preserve and develop the tax base. The loss of economically active persons in professional, technical, and managerial positions is particularly discomforting. Moreover, in South Africa, AIDS is a fast growing problem. More than 3.2 million South Africans are infected and living with the disease, with an estimated 1,500 infections taking place everyday. This health crisis is slowing South Africa's economic development because it decreases the number of people who can work.

Culture of South Africa

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Blending Western technology with indigenous technology, Western traditions with African and Asian traditions, South Africa is a study in contrasts. It also provides lessons in how cultures can sometimes blend, sometimes collide: for example, within a short distance of one another can be found the villas of South Africa's white elite and the tar-paper shacks of black day labourers, office buildings with the most sophisticated electronic wiring and one-room houses that lack electricity.

A great gulf still exists between the white minority and the black majority in matters of education and economic opportunity.

Daily life is better for most of its people, and culture and the arts, which sometimes were forced into exile, are flourishing in the free climate of the postapartheid era.

As they are everywhere in the world, patterns of daily life in South Africa are conditioned by social class, ethnicity, religion, and residence: the life of a black diamond miner in Limpopo province is much different from that of an Indian shopkeeper in Durban, an Afrikaner office worker in Johannesburg, or a teacher of English extraction in Cape Town.

As the government struggles to expand the economy in order to provide equally for all citizens, great disparities continue to exist. Yet, all these people are likely to enjoy much the same pleasures: the company of family and friends, films from the studios of Johannesburg and Hollywood alike, music and dance, and visits to South Africa's magnificent national parks and scenic landscapes.

The great mixture of cultures makes for a wide variety of food choices in the country, from the traditional food of various cultures to the cosmopolitan cuisine that is available in many large cities throughout the world.

A century and a half of white domination in most of the country (more than three centuries in the Western Cape) and the great extent of its ties to the global market economy have profoundly transformed black culture in South Africa. The strongest links to traditional societies have been through the many languages embodying the country's cultural diversity, whose nuances of idiom and sensibility carry over into the arts.

Decorated houses, Drakensberg MountainsIt may be argued that there is no "single" culture in South Africa because of its ethnic diversity. Today, the diversity in foods from many cultures is enjoyed by all and especially marketed to tourists who wish to sample the large variety of South African cuisine. In addition to food, music and dance feature prominently.

There is great diversity in music from South Africa. Many black musicians who sang in Afrikaans or English during apartheid have since begun to sing in traditional African languages, and have developed a unique style called Kwaito. Crossover artists such as Johnny Clegg and his bands Juluka and Savuka have enjoyed various success underground, publicly, and abroad.

The country's black majority still has a substantial number of rural inhabitants who lead largely impoverished lives. It is among these people, however, that cultural traditions survive most strongly; as blacks have become increasingly urbanised and westernised, aspects of traditional culture have declined.

Urban blacks usually speak English or Afrikaans in addition to their native tongue. There are smaller but still significant groups of speakers of Khoisan languages which are not included in the eleven official languages, but are one of the eight other officially recognised languages.

There are small groups of speakers of endangered languages, most of which are from the Khoi-San family, that receive no official status; however, some groups within South Africa are attempting to promote their use and revival.

The middle class lifestyle, predominantly of the white minority but with growing numbers of Black, Coloured and Indian people, is similar in many respects to that of people found in Western Europe, North America and Australasia. Members of the middle class often study and work abroad for greater exposure to the world's markets.

Asians, predominantly of Indian origin, preserve their own cultural heritage, languages and religious beliefs, being either Christian, Hindu or Sunni Muslim and speaking English, with Indian languages like Hindi, Telugu, Tamil or Gujarati being spoken less frequently, but the majority of Indians being able to understand their mother tongue. The first Indians arrived on the famous Truro ship as indentured labourers in Natal to work the Sugar Cane Fields. There is a much smaller Chinese community in South Africa, although its numbers have increased due to immigration from Republic of China (Taiwan).

South Africa has also had a large influence in the Scouting movement. The experiences of Robert Baden-Powell (the founder of Scouting) during his time in South Africa as a military officer in the 1890s, the South African Scout Association was one of the first youth organisations to open its doors to youth and adults of all races in South Africa.

Traditional art forms such as dancing and textile weaving are used as vehicles of ethnic identity and are carefully preserved, while modern art forms from painting to literature have flourished in the years since the end of apartheid. Still, much of this has taken place through private initiatives because major institutional support for culture has been largely abandoned, especially for cultural projects perceived as elitist or European in orientation; the closing of the National Symphony Orchestra in 2000 is one such example.

History of South Africa

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A number of the most primeval archaeological sites in Africa are located in South Africa. There are strong presence of relics confirming the existence of various species such as the Homo Habilis, Homo Erectus, and Homo Sapiens. The Bushman and Bantu groups were also early inhabitants with a developed livelihood system.

The arrival of the Portuguese in 1487 marked the beginning of South Africa’s written history. The Cape of Good Hope was discovered by Bartolomeu Dias after traveling the southernmost part of Africa. During the late 16th century, the English and Dutch began its expansion in most trading routes around South Africa. In 1795, Great Britain captured the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Town. The First Boer War (1880-1881) intensified the natives’ aspiration for independence. But the British reinforced themselves and won the Second Boer War (1899-1902). The Union of South Africa was established in 1910 and eventually was granted sovereignty from the United Kingdom. South Africa became a republic in May 31, 1961 and replaced the office of the Governor-General with the State President position.

Apartheid, an economical, legal and political discrimination against people who are not “Whites”, became more disputed resulting to sanctions and increasing oppression and disorder within South Africa. The National Party government lifted the ban on the African National Congress (ANC) and freed Nelson Mandela in 1990 after 27 years of sabotage imprisonment. South Africa demolished its nuclear armory and signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. In May 9, 1994, Nelson Mandela was voted as President through the country’s first universal suffrage general elections. The Parliament enacted the new Constitution and Bill of Rights after 2 years.

Resorts In Switzerland

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Alpine Chalet in Switzerland

Our chalet offers a coin-operated washing machine and tumbler dryer are available for all guests as are an iron and ironing board and a vacuum cleaner. An extensive collection of videos and paperback books (mainly in English) are at the disposal of the guests. There are extra toilets with basins and running water on each landing and in the main entry area. There is room for ski storage etc. in the main entry area. Ample, free, outdoor parking is reserved for all guests. The large, sunny garden (over 2300 square meters) has mature trees and is bordered by a trout stream (small children need supervision). In summer, garden furniture and a grill are available for use by the guests.

We are sorry, the building is old and there is no wheelchair access. Quiet, clean pets are accepted but the owners are responsible for any damage done by their pets. A welcome package (wine, orange juice, butter, tea, coffee etc.) is offered to guests who stay for a week or more. The owners will provide breakfast, if desired, at regular restaurant prices.

Details:
Large living room, bedroom, full kitchen, bathroom. Extra toilets on each floor. Large sunny garden with views of the Alps.

Villa amenities:
Washing machine, tumbler, dishwasher, TV, DVD player, radio, weather station, balcony, ironing board and iron, cleaning materials, bed linens, towels, owner lives on premises, garden, close to shops and train station, very quiet village. Pick-up and return to train station.

Location & Nearby Attractions:
Village center, large number of hiking trails and ski pistes, ice-rink, horse riding, cycling, heated outdoor swimming pool, Zermatt, Bern, Interlaken by train every hour.

Policy:
Deposit 30%. Cancellation up to 2 weeks in advance with return of deposit. Check-In 15:00, Check-Out 10:00 but we will be as flexible as possible. Minimum stay 2 nights. Smoking allowed. Pets allowed. Visa and MasterCard.

Beau-Rivage Palace

For nearly 150 years, Lake Geneva has reflected the dazzling lights of the Beau-Rivage Palace - entering the property transports you into another world.

This luxurious hotel is situated in Lausanne, a city known for its vibrant lifestyle. Located in 10 acres of private gardens on the banks of Lake Geneva, the elegant belle époque buildings of the Beau-Rivage Palace command breathtaking views across the lake to the majestic Swiss and French Alps beyond and is only 40 minutes from Geneva International Airport.

The 168 guest rooms and suites are richly appointed and offer the utmost in elegance and comfort and the 7 luxurious Executive suites were created to be unique in style.

Time seems to stop altogether, when you visit the hotel's spa. This vast spa is a haven for relaxation and pampering, offering a variety of massages and treatments. You will discover a wealth of beauty rituals from the world over and complete release from the stresses of daily life.

The hotel also boasts a private spa suite, an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi, fully-equipped gym and two tennis courts.

Whether you are travelling for business or leisure, the Beau-Rivage Palace provides impeccable service including and special children's programme to make your stay truly unforgettable.

For nearly 150 years, Lake Geneva has reflected the dazzling lights o

f the Beau-Rivage Palace - entering the property transports you into another world.

This luxurious hotel is situated in Lausan

ne, a city known for its vibrant lifestyle. Located in 10 acres of private gardens on the banks of Lake Geneva, the elegant belle époque buildings of the Beau-Rivage Palace command br

eathtaking views across the lake to th

e majestic Swiss and French Alps beyond and is only 40 minutes from Geneva International Airport.

The 168 guest rooms and suites are richly appointed and offer the utmost in elegance and comfort and the 7 luxurious Executive suites were created to be unique in style.

Time seems to stop altogether, when you visit the hotel's spa.

This vast spa is a haven for relaxation and pampering, offering a variety of massages and treatments. You will discover a wealth of beauty rituals from the world over complete release from the stresses of daily life.

The hotel also boasts a private spa suite, an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi, fully-equipped gym and two tennis courts.

Klosters Ski Resort, Switzerland

With its throngs of international visitors and its wide range of attractions, Klosters is one of Graubunden’s loved holiday resorts, whose village character has been widely preserved. Visitors, who value holidays in country surroundings, will have a sense of wellbeing here at 1200 m (3937 ft) above sea level.

Its proximity to Davos and the fast connection to the Engadine, offer new horizons to Klosters’ visitors. For those hungry for discovery, as well as sporting persons, Klosters is the ideal place for active holidays.

The Davos-Klosters region is an eldorado for skiing, carving and snowboard fans from all over the world. The most modern transport systems gives access to 6 extensive winter sports areas with a total of over 300 km (194 miles) of slopes.

For visitors with a valid guest card there is free travel on the Rhaetian Railway between Davos-Klosters (2nd classe) as well as on the local buses in both resorts.

Zermatt Ski Resort

This idyllic mountain village at the foot of the Matterhorn has developed into one of the biggest summer and winter resorts. There are no motorised vehicles in Zermatt. Besides electrically powered cars and bicycles, the only form of transport allowed is horse-drawn sleighs and carriages.

You will find the best conditions here for a restful and relaxing holiday.

Zermatt is located at the foot of the Matterhorn in the Valais Alps in the south of Switzerland at an altitude of 1,600m. above sea-level. The resort lies at the end of the Vispa Valley, which is reached via the town of Visp.

38 of Europe\'s 76 four-thousand-metre peaks are in the area surrounding Zermatt. Zermatt\'s ski area is connected to the ski area of Cervinia (Italy) via the Theodul pass (3,300m.) and the Testa Grigia (3\'480m.)

Swissotel Hotel Zurich

The Swissotel Hotel Zurich is located directly between the Zurich airport and the center of the city in the Oerlikon District. The Zurich Fair, Messe Zurich Exhibition Hall, and the Hallenstadion are some of the popular tourist attractions within walking distance of this Zurich hotel. Public transportation is conveniently located directly in front of the Swissotel Hotel Zurich. An airport shuttle is available for a small fee. The 347 rooms of the Swissotel Hotel Zurich are fully air-conditioned and equipped with a wide array of amenities. Guests can enjoy a trouser press, complimentary mineral water, electronic safe, wireless LAN, coffee/tea set, and DVD player. The 4 star Swissotel Hotel Zurich has an outstanding view of the city of Zurich, as well as the surrounding mountains. The hotel features a health club with a swimming pool, sauna, solarium, and fitness area. There are two on-site restaurants serving a variety of appetizing dishes, and a bar in which guests..