Talon to travel: Article

Sukhothai in Northern Thailand

Located in the valley of the Yom River, Sukhothai (meaning “Dawn of Happiness”) is a province in northern Thailand which verges on the central regions. It is around 427 kilometres north of Bangkok and covers around 6,600 square kilometres. The province was founded in the 13th century and was the first independent Thai Kingdom - the Sukhothai kingdom. It is most famous for the historic city of Sukhothai, the kingdom’s capital. The province’s temples and monuments have been restored to their former glory and Sukhothai Historical Park – a place with countless sites of historical interest – made into a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other places of interest include Ramkhamhaeng National Museum, Ramkhamhaeng National Park, Sri Satchanalai National Park and The Royal Palace and Wat Mahathat.

Sri Satchanalai (National Park)
Sukhothai is generally recognised as a place of historical significance. However, it is also home to a very beautiful National Park. Sri Satchanalai National Park is around 300 acres of flowers, greenery and wildlife with mountains throughout the parks length. One of the focal points of the park is Tad Dao – a 40-meter high waterfall. Others are Kang Kao cave, Tad Dean Waterfall and Pong Nam Dean. The one of the highest peaks in the park is Wang Chang which offers some tremendous views from its summit. The park also houses a number of ruins, comparable to those available at Sukothai Historical Park, although of another era. Although a World Heritage site like Sukothai Historical Park, Sri Satchanalai’s ruins are not as well restored, but this adds to the its charm and authentic feel. Some of the key sites to visit inside the park include:

• Wat Chang Lom
• Wat Khao Phanon Phloeng
• Wat Chedi Jet Thaew
• Wat Nang Phaya
• Wat Phra Si Ratanan Mahatat
• Wat Chao Chan
• Chaliang - an ancient city to the southeast of the park with two temples

Details: The park is open 08:00 to 18:00 and admission is 40 Baht. If you are have a vehicle you will be charged for that, too. The fees are 40 Baht for a car, 30 Baht for a motorcycle and 10 Baht for a bicycle.

How to get there: The following buses will get you there from Sukothai town:

Bus number: 27B

Air-conditioned Bus Number: 38B

You will need to ask the driver to drop you off so give him/her this:

Sri Satchanalai National Park written in Thai

Contact:
Sri Satchanalai National Park
P.O.Box 10 Tambol Bannkang
Amphur Sri Satchanalai
Sukothai Province
64130
Tel: (055) 619-214-5

Sri Satchanalai National Park
Sukhothai is generally recognised as a place of historical significance. However, it is also home to a very beautiful National Park. Sri Satchanalai National Park is around 300 acres of flowers, greenery and wildlife with mountains throughout the parks length. One of the focal points of the park is Tad Dao – a 40-meter high waterfall. Others are Kang Kao cave, Tad Dean Waterfall and Pong Nam Dean. The one of the highest peaks in the park is Wang Chang which offers some tremendous views from its summit. The park also houses a number of ruins, comparable to those available at Sukothai Historical Park, although of another era. Although a World Heritage site like Sukothai Historical Park, Sri Satchanalai’s ruins are not as well restored, but this adds to the its charm and authentic feel. Some of the key sites to visit inside the park include:

• Wat Chang Lom
• Wat Khao Phanon Phloeng
• Wat Chedi Jet Thaew
• Wat Nang Phaya
• Wat Phra Si Ratanan Mahatat
• Wat Chao Chan
• Chaliang - an ancient city to the southeast of the park with two temples

Details: The park is open 08:00 to 18:00 and admission is 40 Baht. If you are have a vehicle you will be charged for that, too. The fees are 40 Baht for a car, 30 Baht for a motorcycle and 10 Baht for a bicycle.

How to get there: The following buses will get you there from Sukothai town:

Bus number: 27B

Air-conditioned Bus Number: 38B

Contact:
Sri Satchanalai National Park
P.O.Box 10 Tambol Bannkang
Amphur Sri Satchanalai
Sukothai Province
64130
Tel: (055) 619-214-5

Sukhothai Historical Park
Sukhothai Historical Park is the main attraction in Sukothai Province. Located 12 kilometres from Sukothai town on the Sukhothai-Tak Highway, the Historical Park is a place of ruins and temples although certainly part of Thailand’s heritage, it also regarded as a World Heritage site under the auspices of UNESCO and the Thai Fine Arts Department. The capital of Thailand’s first Kingdom (founded in 1238), Sukothai has considerable historical significance and is a pleasure to visit. There the original city was surrounded by walls with 4 city gates. Today the walls house a number of sites worthy to visit. These include:

• The Royal Palace
• Wat Mahathat,
• The Ramkhamhaeng National Museum
• The Ramkhamhaeng Monument
• Wat Si Sawai
• Wat Traphang Ngoen
• Wat Traphang Thong
• Wat Chana Songkhram,
• Wat Sa Si
• Wat Mai
• San Ta Pha Daeng (the Deity Shrine)

Alongside these a further seventy worthy sites lie in the immediate vicinity. Sukhothai Historical Park ranks alongside Wap Phra Kaew as one of Thailand’s premier places to visit. As such, if you plan to visit the area, this is one place you ‘must see’.

Details: The site is open daily from 08.30 to 16.30. It is separated into five zones (north, south, east, west and central) and admission to each is 30 Baht, with the exception of the central zone where the admission fee is 40 Baht. Probably the easiest way to move around the zones is by rented bicycle which are available from the park at 20 Baht a day. However, a tram also moves from site to site and costs on 20 Baht per person.

How to get there: Possibly the easiest way to get to the ‘Old’ City from ‘New’ Sukothai is Songtaew – the fare is around 10 Baht from Jarot Withithong Road near the Yom River. Many people stop off at Sukhothai City Walls and Gates to take a look before moving on the Historical Park.

Contact:
Sukhothai Historical Park
Sukhothai
Amphoe Mueang - Muang Kao District
Sukhothai Historical Park
Sukothai
Tel. (055) 613-241 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (055) 613-241 end_of_the_skype_highlighting (Tourist Service Center: (055) 613-241 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (055) 613-241 end_of_the_skype_highlighting)

The Royal Palace / Wat Mahathat
The Royal Palace is in the centre of old Sukothai. This is a large site covering around 160,000 square meters containing two main compounds and completely surrounded by a water moat. The first of the main compounds is Noen Phrasat (the Royal Building), a site containing a stone inscribed by King Ramhamhaeng. The second is Wat Mahathat, Sukhothai's largest temple. The temple’s main ‘chedi’ is intact showing the traditional ‘Lotus’ style which demonstrates the Khmer influence particular to this area. The chedi sports Buddha images on its pedestal and images of a number of Buddhist disciples in adoration at its foot. Inside the temple's ‘viharn’ is an 8-metre-high Bronze Buddha image. The site also features figures of demons and animals with angels riding on their backs. The temple offers authentic Sukothai art and its crypt has a number of excellent murals. Wat Mahathat is a very important temple, supposedly the spiritual centre of the old Sukhothai. There are around 200 chedis within the temple compound and so there’s plenty to see and wander around. Well worth a visit.

Details: Sukhothai Historical Park is open daily from 08.30 to 16.30. The Royal Palace / Wat Mahathat are in the central zone and admission is 40 Baht.

How to get there: Possibly the easiest way to get to the ‘Old’ City from ‘New’ Sukothai is Songtaew – the fare is around 10 Baht from Jarot Withithong Road near the Yom River. Many people stop off at Sukhothai City Walls and Gates to take a look before moving on the Historical Park.

Contact:
Sukhothai Historical Park
Sukhothai
Amphoe Mueang - Muang Kao District
Sukhothai Historical Park
Sukothai
Tel. (055) 613-241 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (055) 613-241 end_of_the_skype_highlighting (Tourist Service Center: (055) 613-241 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (055) 613-241 end_of_the_skype_highlighting)

Article Source: http://www.discoverythailand.com/Sukhothai.asp

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Muay Thai

Muay Thai or Thai Boxing is the Thai name for a indigenous form of martial art practiced in Thailand and several southeast Asian countries including Cambodia (where it is known as Pradal Serey) and Myanmar where it is generally known as Lethwei.

Traditional Muay Thai has a long history in Thailand as a martial art used by the military. The military style of Muay Thai is called Lerdrit, while today's "Sport Muay Thai" slightly varies from the original art and uses kicks and punches in a ring and with gloves similar to those used in boxing. Muay Thai is referred to as "The Science of Eight Limbs", as the hands, feet, elbows, and knees are all

The training of a Thai boxer and particularly the relationship between boxer and trainer is highly ritualised. When a boxer is considered ready for the ring, he is usually given a new name by his trainer, usually with the name of the training camp as his surname. For the public, the relationship is perhaps best expressed in the ram muay (ritual dance) that takes place before every match.

The ram muay ceremony usually lasts about five minutes and expresses obeisance to the fighter's guru (khru), as well as to the guardian spirit of Thai Boxing. This is done through a series of gestures and body movements performed in rhythm to the ringside musical accompaniment of Thai oboe (pii) and percussion. Each boxer works out his own dance, in conjunction with his trainer and in accordance with the style of his particular camp.

The woven headbands and armbands worn in the ring by fighters are sacred ornaments which bestow blessings and divine protection: the headband is removed after the ram muay ceremony, but the armband, which actually contains a small Buddha image, is worn throughout the fight. After the fight begins the fighters continue to bob and weave in rhythm until the action begins to heat up. The musicians continue to play throughout the match and the volume and tempo of the music rise and fall along with the events in the ring.

Published At: www.Isnare.com

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Travel with Khao Sam Roi Yod Mountain Thailand.

Khao Sam Roi Yod Mountain Prachup Khiri Khan Province Thailand.

Khao Sam Roi Yod, The height from M.S.L. : 605 meters

Location : Kiu Buri District and Kho Sam Roi Yod Sub-District, Prachup Khiri Khan Province.

Thung Sam Roi Yod is a big pond this is the habitat of various kinds of bird, both local and migrated ones, altogether about 316 kinds.

Khao Daeng scenic viewpoint is around 400 meters away from The National Park-5.00 P.M is the best time to do so, as you can see the sunset and watch birds returning to their Sanctuaries in the evening.

This spot is 1.5 kilometers away from The National Park Headquarter.
Praya Nakhon Cave Praya Nakhon Cave is big and beautiful. At its roof, there is a hole where the sunlight can get in through. The most outstanding thing in there could be "Koo Ha Karue Had Pavillion" with four gable wall.
Laem Sala Beach Laem Sala Beach is the sand beach nearby "Ban Bang Pu". You can reach there in 2 ways :
- By Boat : Take a boat Ban Bang Pu for about 20 minutes.
- By Foot : From Ban Bang Pu intersection go to Khao Thien. Walk across the mountain for around 530 meters from Wat Bang Pu Temple.Mountain surround the beach.

Keaw Cave Keaw Cave is around 13 kilometers away from Headquarter. In the cave you will see beautiful Stalagmite and Stalactite.

Sai Cave Sai Cave is another beautiful cave in this area. It is in "Kung Ta-nod" village, 9 kilometers from Headquarter. You can park the footthill and walk further for about 280 meters.

Source: ArticleTrader.com

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SEA of Mist : Amazing Wonders in Thailand

If traveling to discover nature is like taking a journey to fulfill your life, then to witness a natural phenomenon such as the sea of mist would not be different from a reward for the travelers, who only wish to savor its spectacular sight. Seeing the sea of mist is considered a sort of luck, as the weather is unpredictable, there is no guarantee as to what you will get.

Waiting to see the sea of mist in the morning is like waiting for the stage curtain to unveil. As the pale sunlight reveals the vast mass of vapor over the forest, the sun appears over the horizon, then comes the moment you witness the sea of mist in its full splendor.

The sea of mist is extraordinarily beautiful in winter, especially in the North. However, it is also possible to see it in some parts of the North East and Central Thailand as well.

There are many places you can go to see the sea of mist.

The North

Popular spots to see the sea of mist in the North are:

Huai Nam Dang National Park, Chiang Mai
There is no need for trekking to see the sea of mist here. From December to February, you will also get to see blooming Sakura as a bonus.
Phu Chi Fa, Chiang Rai
This is the number one classic spot for sea of mist in Thailand. From the cliff, you can see the breathtaking view of the sea of mist spreading over Laos. In addition, Doi Pha, which is only 20 km. away is another well-known spot to see the sea of mist.
Mae Noei National Park, Tak
It is the perfect spot from October to February. Nearby tourist attractions are Mae Usu Cave and natural hot springs.
Mokoju Peak, Mae Wong National Park, Kamphaeng Phet
With some effort, you will get through a long and difficult trekking to see the picture perfect sea of mist. Peak season is from November to February.
Khao Kho, Phetchabun
The viewpoint is conveniently located in the resort among the mountains.
Doi Hua Mot, Amphoe Umphang, Tak
Namtok Thi Lo Cho (Falling Rain Waterfall) and rafting activities are also a must.
Phu Thap Boek, Phetchabun
Here, you can put up your tents and wait for the sea of mist in the morning and the “stars on earth” at night.
Other viewpoints in the North are:
Doi ,Si Nan National Park, Nan
Khun Chae National Park, Chiang Rai
Chae Son National Park, Lampang
Chiang Dao National Park, Chiang Mai
Doi Khun Than National, Lamphun
Doi Phu Kha National Park, Nan
Doi Luang National Park, Phayao
Taksin Maharat National Park, Tak

The North East

Pha Nok Aen Cliff, Phu Kradueng National Park, Loei. From October to January.
See pine woods, waterfalls, and maple leaves changing colors.
Phu Reua National Park, Loei. From December to January.
A natural rock garden and morning dew awaits you.
Pha Taem National Park, Ubon Ratchatani. From November to December.
The place where the sun rises before anywhere else in Thailand.

Also:

Na Heao National Park, Loei. From November to December.
Hin Chang Si Viewpoint, Nam Phong National Park, Khon Kaen. From October to December.
Phu Phan National Park, Sakon Nakorn. From November to February.

Central Thailand

Kaeng Krachan National Park, Phetchaburi. All year round.
Khao Laem National Park, Kanchanaburi. From November to January.
Srinagarindra Dam, Kanchanaburi. From September to February.
Pang Sida National Park, Sa Kaeo. From October to December.
Phu Toei National Park, Suphan Buri. From September to November.
Kui Buri National Park, Prachuap Khiri Khan. From October to February.

For more information on the sea of mist at the above national parks,
please visit www.dnp.go.th

Article Source : www.tourismthailand.org

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Waterfalls on Doi Inthanon - Chiang Mai

Mae Ya Waterfall: The North of Thailand is famous for its many waterfalls

and one of the most

beautiful in Chiang Mai province is Nam Tok Mae Ya. This waterfall is thought to be the highest in Thailand and is well worth the extra effort to get there.

Nam Tok Mae Ya is a beautiful, fanning cascade, dropping down an ever-widening series of steps. The water tumbles down a 100 m cliff in a series of spectacular leaps and National Park officials estimate that the Mae Ya River plunges more than 250 m at this point. At the bottom is a cool pool where children can swim and enjoy the pleasant picnic area. It is without a doubt, a photographic favorite for most visitors.

The 14 km route to get to Nam Tok Mae Ya begins in Chom Thong village. Mini-buses labeled in English Doi Inthanon Park can be hired at either Chom Thong or Mae Klang for the trip to the summit; the cost is about 500 baht for the round trip.

Mae Klang Waterfall: The Nam Tok Mae Klang Waterfall lies 66 km southwest of Chiang Mai city at the foot of Doi Inthanon Mountain. This unusual waterfall has been visited by Thai people for many years and is easily Chiang Mai's most photographed waterfall. Visitors continue to come in large numbers on any sunny day in the year to swim or simply unwind in this beautiful natural setting.

The waterfall is reached via Highway 108 to km 57 (just 1 km before the village of Chom Thong). Turn right onto Highway 1009 and continue 8 km to where the road forks. Mae Klang is 300 m straight ahead. The summit road forks to the right, reaching Park Headquarters near km 31 and the summit of Doi Inthanon at km 48. Once there, the waterfall provides a picturesque setting for picnics and relaxation. The area is fast becoming popular with many international visitors as well as local Chiang Mai families who own homes along the riverside.

The rapids and waterfall spill over a wide exposure of granite and can be approached closely. Rocky paths climb up beside the 30 m high falls and if you reach the top there is a fine view. Visitors are asked to exercise caution around the waterfall area and while swimming either above or below the falls. There are food, drink and souvenir stalls at the entrance and below the main falls. Across the bridge are the beautifully laid out gardens of the northern branch of Wat Chai Monkon, a famous Bangkok temple. In the grounds is a spectacular chedi containing a lift. There is also an enormous Buddha statue made out of one piece of Canadian greenstone. A well-maintained trail leads up the side of the waterfall and continues to the Visitor Center and beyond.

Mae Sa Waterfall: The Nam Tok Mae Sa Waterfall is 26 km from Chiang Mai city and is located at km 7 on the Mae Rim - Samoeng Road. This eight-tiered delightful waterfall occupies a natural setting among gigantic towering trees and always impresses visitors.

Wachirathan Waterfall: Nam Tok Wachirathan waterfall is on the route to Doi Inthanon and is a thirty-minute drive from Nam Tok Mae Klang. It is a beautiful scenic spot for picnics and is reached by a short, easy trail from the parking area. Nam Tok Wachirathan tumbles down a granite escarpment, creating a misty veil of great beauty. Visitors should be very cautious, as three people have tragically fallen to their deaths while taking photographs.

Just a short distance on the main road beyond the waterfall is the small Karen hill tribe village of Ban Sop Had. If you turn right just past the bridge you will find the village a few hundred meters up the dirt access road.

Siriphum Waterfall: Access to the Nam Tok Siriphum Waterfall is via the road intersecting with the main summit road on Doi Inthanon at km 30.4. The waterfalls are actually twins: two parallel plumes named for His Majesty King Bhumibol and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. An excellent view of the waterfalls can be enjoyed by walking along the track that forks left from the main road - just beyond the entrance to the guesthouse compound.

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Interesting Articles - Siam Cultural Park

Siam Cultural Park

When people think about tourism, most of the time they usually think of beaches, waterfalls, and mountains which are natural tourism. However other than those natural ones, Thailand also house many interest human-made tourist attractions. Like recently in Ratchaburi province, a newly built attraction opened for the public renowned Siam Cultural Park. Siam Cultural Park situates in Wangyen sub - district the district of Bangpae close to the famous Dumnurnsaduak Floating Market just a kilometer from Bangpae intersection on Petkasem road.The park was originated with the aim to conserve Thai traditions, cultures, and arts along with the shady natural park .

The park was originated with the aim to conserve Thai traditions, cultures, and arts along with the shady natural park . The Park is divided into six zones covering area more than 42-rai. The fist zone is housed to the Hall of Fame building which exhibits well-know important persons both Thai and foreign for example, M.L. Pin Malakul, H.E. Professor Dr. Sanya Dhammasak, President Ho Chi Minh, and Mother Terasa. Just a few steps from the Hall of Fame building and right before entering into the second zone, there are amazing and difficult-to-find-one trees in which a sugar palm tree surrounded by a bo tree, the tree the lord Buddha enlightened.

The second zone is called the Terrace of Buddha Image of Three Periods. The Buddha images reproduced from historical parks from three different periods, Ayutthaya , Sukhothai and Chiang Saen also known as Lanna. This zone gives an opportunity to explore three historical park in three different provinces in one place. The third zone is housed to a Jutaka Light and Sound Cave where the story of the Buddhist Saga Vessantara Jutaka is told with the aim to show the result the endless greed of human beings. Next to the cave lies a Herbal Drink house where a tradition refreshment drinks like Chrysanthemum, Rosella, Bael fruit, Lemon Grass, and Longan and Thai tradition sweets are served. The forth zone is exhibited Buddhist Monastic Cells which divided into regional styles where each cell housed two famous monks from the region. Crossing the bridge to the other side of the canal would bring visitors back to the past with the Thai traditional houses style in the fifth zone. This zone is also divided into regional styles where each styles has its uniqueness of architecture and design. Inside each house are artifacts to tell about the way of life of the people in the region. Crossing the second bridge would take visitors to the water-fall front for taking photos and enjoy coffee, tea, Thai sweets, ice-cream, and herbal drinks served by the Coffee House. After enjoy taking photos and the refreshments, walking along the footpath would finally take visitors to the footpath would finally take visitors to the last zone the Terrace of Avalokitasvara where the area is beautifully decorated with trees and flowers for the last shot before leaving the Park.

Siam Cultural Park is a very interesting tourist destination which shouldn’t miss in Ratchaburi province

Operating Hours

Monday -Friday : 9.00-16.30

Saturday -Sunday : 8.30-17.00

Annual holiday : 8.30-17.00

Ticket

Adult 50 B

Child 20 B

Article Source : www.tourismthailand.org

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Top 10 Cultural Tourist Attractions in Glasgow

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Glasgow - book-european-hotels.com

Glasgow is a complete treat for all due to having wide range of entertaining options. Glasgow is the gateway to the Scotland’s cultural heritage and cultural values. It has few of the finest gothic era architectural wonders that are now the part of the cultural heritage of Glasgow. However, Glasgow has so many tourist attractions such as it has finest eating out options, family entertainment choices, nightlife enjoyment spots, precious theatres etc but among all cultural attractions has got the number one position. We have enlisted top ten best cultural tourist attractions in Glasgow that are really “must visit” places.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum

This is an inimitable art gallery and museum in Glasgow that remains over flocked with over million tourists and foreign visitors every year. It underwent in major refurbishment and currently serving as one of the finest art galleries and museums in Glasgow. Kelvingrove art galley and museum is the most visited historical museum in entire United Kingdom while simultaneously being the number one tourist attraction in Glasgow. It has extensive collection of greatest and historical artists. The great collections consist of arms and armour and natural history. The artworks consist of European artworks, French Impressionists, Scottish Colourists, and Dutch Renaissance etc. The main building of this art galley & museum is itself a great piece of Spanish architectural artwork. It is made up of red sandstones that are blocked in a Spanish Baroque style and offering an eye catching view.

Great Architectural Works from Charles Rennie Mackintosh

Glasgow is blessed with the great and historical architectural works of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Mackintosh contributed a lot in the art and craft assets of Europe and specially those of Scotland. There is a great number of historical buildings and art collections by Mackintosh that are located in Glasgow. Few of the most significant architectural wonders by Mackintosh include: The Glasgow School of Art, the Mackintosh House, the Willow Tea Rooms, Ruchill Church Hall, Queens Cross Church, Martyrs’ Public School, and the Lighthouse etc. The Glasgow School of Art is a world famous art gallery that gets a huge traffic of foreign and local visitors every year. It is considered as the most significant masterpiece of the Mackintosh architectural works. The Willow Tea Rooms are another perfect example of the masterpiece buildings of the Mackintosh. This place was recreated partially while its various parts are preserved in their original shape. This place is perfect for having relaxing and private time with friends and family. Lighthouse is the perfect place to stroll around and believe me it would take your many hours without making you feel of time. Just take your camera with yourself while visiting Lighthouse.

The Burrell Collection

It is a great art collection gallery located in the world famous Pollok Country Park, Glasgow, Scotland. It is attracting millions of tourists and foreign visitors every year. This great art gallery contains extensive collection of gothic artworks including stained glasswork, tapestries, oak furniture, gothic weapons and armour, artifacts belong to ancient China and Egypt, Islamic artworks, Impressionist works by Cezanne and Degas, modern artifacts and sculptures etc. It is very easy to reach this great artwork collection venue in Glasgow. You can reach it through Pollokshaws West railway station.

Glasgow Cathedral

It is the heart beat of Glasgow and arguably inimitable architectural wonder that is gifted to the Glasgow city from the Gothic era. This cathedral is the most popular cathedral in Glasgow and it is also world famous for its historical and religious values. It remains open for tourists and foreign visitors but on charges while for worshipers there is no entry fee. The must see and popular points within this cathedral are the tomb of St. Kenitgern, Nave & Millennium entrance, and the Creation and the Clock.

Gallery of Modern Art

This is one the finest art galleries in Glasgow that is based on the collection of contemporary artworks. It is more commonly known as GoMA. This magnificent gallery is the home of various exhibitions and workshops, as well and attracting millions of tourists every year. This art gallery is ideally located in the centre of Glasgow city. The main building of this art gallery is itself worth to see because it is based in the neoclassical building within the Royal Exchange Square. The exhibites at this gallery include the great artworks of David Hockney, Sebastiao Salgado, John Bellany, Ken Currie, and Andy Warhol. There is a lot to do inside this gallery and tourists can easily keep exploring places in this gallery such as underground learning library, Education and Access Studio, cafes etc. There is a wonderful statue of the Duke of Wellington with a traffic cone. This cone is replaced on occasions by the officials and makes the statue more attractive.

People’s Palace

The People’s Palace and Winter Gardens are the significant glasshouse and leading museum in Glasgow. This people’s palace was originally built to provide a cultural centre to the people of Glasgow. The People’s Palace has now become the only museum in Glasgow that tells the entire story of Glaswegians and Glasgow city. Currently this place consists of museum, picture gallery, museum, glasshouse, and the gardens. This museum is a perfect place to learn about the history of Glasgow, its native people, and their lifestyle. This great museum and glasshouse gets heavy traffic of local and foreign visitors every year.

Museum of Transport

Wow! What a unique place with an extensive collection of transport models including ship models, road vehicles, railway and tramway models etc. This museum gets over half million tourists and foreign visitors every year. It has now closed and undergoing in renovation. At the same time it is relocating to new place and its reopening is expected soon. This museum contains the oldest cycling pedal and collection of Scottish built cars such as Argyll, Arrol Johnson, Albon, popular cars including Hillman Imp, Chrysler Avenger, Chrysler Sunbeam, ship models including Comet, the Hood, the Howe, the Queen Mary, and the Queen Elizabeth I & II etc.

Glasgow Botanic Gardens & the Kibble Palace

It is a wonderful place in Glasgow that is dedicated to the common public of Glasgow and tourists. It consists of various glasshouses and among them the most significant is the Kibble Palace. It is a must visit place that worth your attention. The Kibble Palace will cast a spell on you and will keep you under its magical influence for a long time period. Take your camera and enjoy a wonderful time with your family and friends.

Glasgow Science Centre

It is a totally a tourists place that also remains over loaded with local visitors. This centre was built purposely and consisting of three distinct buildings that are: the Science Mall, an IMAX cinema, and the Glasgow Tower. Glasgow Science Tower is the tallest tower in the world that is also the part of Guinness book of world record.

University of Glasgow

It is a historical university in Glasgow and the fourth oldest in United Kingdom. It is also the top ranked British university in the world. This university is one of the significant and most visited cultural heritage sites in Glasgow. It can only be explored via guided tour on particular days and timings. This university holds great importance in Glasgow and attracting literally millions of tourists every year.

Above mentioned detestations are the most significant and precious world famous cultural attractions in Glasgow. Each destination is unique for its unique features and values. While visiting Glasgow we highly recommend you these top ten cultural tourist attractions to be seen.

Credit by: http://www.book-european-hotels.com/Glasgow-Attractions.php

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Top 10 Things to do Whilst on Holiday in Barcelona

10) Turn up the heat with Flamenco dancing...

Set those pulses racing at a live Flamenco show. A great place to do this is Tabloa Flamenco Cordobes situated at Las Ramblas, 35. You can have dinner followed by an incredible display of rhythm, dance and live music.

9) The Nou Camp Stadium...

See the world's most beautiful game at the world's most beautiful stadium in an atmosphere like you've never experienced. If you're not lucky enough to get hold of tickets then go for a Barcelona FC stadium tour instead.

8) Take a master class in Paella...

Prepare one of Spain's tastiest dishes in a truly unique experience at Lifestyle Barcelona. Your three-hour gastronomic package includes a trip to the Boqueria Market before learning how to paella the authentic way. Wash down your culinary creation with complimentary wine.

Cheap flights to Barcelona for fantastic experiences

7) Barcelona by Helicopter...

What better way to appreciate the beauty of Barcelona than from 2000 feet? Take in panoramic views of Tibidabo, Agbar Tower and Montserrat Mountain. This is a must for romantics and thrill seekers alike.

6) Scoot around the city in style...

Bored of the usual guided bus tours? Then explore the city in style with a scooter tour. If you're looking for something that little bit different this is a cool and adventurous way to get around all of the famous sights.

5) Romantic hot air balloon ride over Catalonia...

Okay, so you're slowly drifting high above the tranquil Mediterranean Sea soon followed by the majestic Pyrenees. Sound appealing? Balloon flights are widely available near Barcelona. An experience of a lifetime!

Fantastic things to do whilst on holiday in Barcleona Spain

4) Barcelona Canyoning experience...

Could you abseil down a raging waterfall? Or launch yourself from a 20-foot ledge into a deep rock pool? This is Canyoning in Catalonia. Many packages take you to the neighbouring Pyrenees and are popular with holidaymakers looking for something different and adventurous.

3) VIP Tour on a Harley Davidson...

Experience Barcelona in a completely different way on the back of the king of all motorbikes - a Harley Davidson! You don't need a license to enjoy this unique experience because a private Chauffer will take you wherever you want to go. VIP Harley Tours are available at Cooltra.

2) Unwind with a Chocolate Massage...

Yes, you read correctly - a chocolate massage! You don't need a sweet tooth to enjoy this amazingly unique experience as you're covered from head to toe in chocolate and almond oil. Apparently it's great for your skin too. Is there a better way to enjoy chocolate without piling on the pounds? Who cares - I want one! For more details visit Lifestyle Barcelona.

1) Drive a Lamborghini Gallardo...

It's understandable if some of you are still preoccupied with thoughts of chocolate but this has to be the ultimate in flashy self-indulgence. Feel the power of 509 horsepower engine on a Spanish Formula 1 racetrack under the guidance of a Lamborghini driving instructor. So what are you waiting for... buckle up and push the peddle to the metal for the ride of your life.

Credit by : http://flights.jet2.com/barcelona/barcelona-top-10-guide.htm

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Flamingo Ecology

For many years, great studies have been done on Flamingoes especially on the Great Rift Valley lakes of Kenya and Tanzania. One of these lakes is the famous Bird watchers paradise - Lake Nakuru national park. It is here where over 1.5 million flamingoes wallow the shoes of alkaline waters rich in blue green algae. Many visitors on African Safaris are amazed with the panoramic view of the spending with great photos taken on vast African horizons and rocky cliffs.

Although the alluring ecstasy to take more snaps is immeasurable, there is need to pick on a frew facts about the Flamingo and why there is great need to conserve them and their few delicate habitats.

Species

There are 6 species of flamingoes in the world, At first glance, they may look similar to each other, but certain features such as size, leg colour or beak allow easy identification.

Today, we will major on the lesser Flamingo as we explore their vast and diverse facts as follows;

Behavior;

Flamingoes are itinerant species adapted to respond to changes in local environmental conditions, and thus depend on a network of suitable sites. They feed on species of microscopic cyanobacteria and benthic diatoms found only in alkaline lakes.

The characteristic feeding is primarily by swimming and filtering the algae and diatoms with a specialized bill that contains up to 10,000 microscopic lamellae. The Lesser Flamingos depend primarily on shallow saline/alkaline lakes, pans, wetlands and coastal areas within easy flying distance (i.e. 120-180 km) of a good feeding site for the parents.
They feed several hours each day when the surface of the water is sufficiently calm to enable them to feed. If the surface of the water is not calm, they are unable to feed and are confined to the limited areas of wet mud.

Species Classification

They are classified as "Near Threatened", nearly qualifying as threatened under criteria A3c: (A population size reduction of 30%, projected or suspected to be met within the next 10 years or three generations, whichever is the longer -up to a maximum of 100 years), based on a decline in area of occupancy, extent of occurrence and/or quality of habitat.
It is also listed in Columns A and B of the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Water birds (AEWA) Action Plan, Appendix II of the Bonn Convention (CMS) and Appendix II of the CITES convention.

Conservation

There are four separate populations recognized for conservation purposes;
1. The largest population, estimated to be 1.5 - 2.5 million individuals, occurs on the alkaline-saline lakes of the Great Rift Valley in East Africa.
Smaller populations occur in the
2. North-western India, estimated to be approximately 390,000 birds.
3. Southern Africa, estimated to be 55,000 - 65,000 birds.
4. West Africa, estimated to be 15,000 - 25,000 birds.

Maturity

They reach sexual maturity at 3-4 years of age and they breed following seasonal rains that provide the flooding necessary to isolate remote breeding sites from terrestrial predators and the soft muddy material for nest building. Nests are built from mud substrates where they lay eggs. The mean incubation is 28 days and Fledging is approximately 70 days.
The selection of breeding site is chosen in regard to; Inaccessibility to terrestrial disturbance from humans or animal predators and subject to seasonal flooding that is sufficiently shallow (and calm) to enable the construction of the traditional conical mud nests without them being washed away, but sufficiently deep and long lasting to prohibit terrestrial predators from reaching the nesting colony.

Threats to flamingo conservation

Most critical threat to the survival of the Lesser Flamingo (a factor causing or likely to cause very rapid declines >30% over 10 years or three generations) is the degradation of its specialized breeding and feeding habitats through
1. Altered hydrology and water quality
2. Wetland pollution,
3. Extraction of salt and soda ash
4. Disruption of its few breeding colonies by human activities

There are also threats of High importance (factors causing or likely to cause rapid declines (20-30% over 10 years or three generations)
• Poisoning (heavy metals, pesticides & cyanobacteria toxins)
• Diseases - Avian flu, cholera, mycobacteriosis
• Disruption of its few breeding colonies by human activities (particularly from nearby settlements).
and finally, threats of low importance (factors causing or likely to cause negligible decline)
• Human disturbance of non-breeding sites
• Collision with man-made structures
• Predation
• Competition with other species for food and breeding sites
• Harvesting of eggs and live birds.

Therefore, while doing your African Safari, please take time and give back to the conservation of this endangered jewel while at the same time minimize any interference that may contribute to them being more endangered.

Enjoy your view of Flamingoes.

Source: ArticleTrader.com

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Italy Travel Guide

Italy Holidays – Italy Tours & Adventure Travel Guide

Tours Italy Holiday Highlights

Culture & History – Museums throughout Italy showcase incredible collections of artifacts, archaeological finds and famous artworks. Visit Galleria Borghese in Rome, or the La Torre di Pisa in Florence. Italy has remained the center of European life for centuries and all is there to view in the historic sites and displays. Ruins of ancient Rome are still silhouetted against the skyline at twilight and the Christian Rome life is visible to the naked eye.

Sightseeing – You’ve often heard about or seen pictures of the famous spots in Italy, revered by those who have already visited. There are too many to list, but a few of those you must see are the Pincio Gardens, Quirinal Hill and the Spanish Steps in Rome. In Florence you have to visit Michelangelo's "David," of course, and stop by Piazzale Michelangiolo for some unbelievable sights. All through Italy, no matter your destination, there is sightseeing enough to keep you occupied for weeks and weeks.

Trekking – Along the coast and through the mountains of gorgeous Italy, the choice of adventures is yours on your tours Italy. A trekking holiday in Italy will show you the charm and beauty of this fabulous country, filled with history and incomparable sights. Take a pilgrimage route from Rome or hike Tuscany. The options are many and your enjoyment is guaranteed.

Cycling – Italy is a paradise for cycling, with safe roads and lovely views. Italians are gracious and respect the rider in all parts of the country, often calling out words of encouragement as you are touring. Pedaling the narrow streets of a tiny village, you will feel you are in some dream landscape. As you climb a pass in the mountains to the north, you will begin to believe you are on another planet. Try some remote secondary road between Milan and Lake Como. Cycling in Italy, among the rolling hills and vineyards, will win your heart.

Water Sports – With Italy surrounded on three sides with the azure seas, you can imagine that water sports are popular in all areas. Swimming and sailing, water polo and diving, rowing and motorboat racing all can be found at the seaside resorts. Play water basketball, invented by Italians, or water ski in the brilliant yet caressing sun. Beach holidays are wonderful in Italy.

Winter Sports – For the best in Italian winter sports you will go to the Italian Alps, with the major resorts and accommodating facilities. There the skiing will be challenging and exciting. Cross-country skiing is a favorite in Northern Italy, and in Central Italy you can find popular resorts such as Abetone and Campo Imperatore. But skiing isn’t everything. You will have plenty of opportunity to try your hand at ice hockey, figure skating or bobsledding.

Climbing – Rock climbing in Italy provides everything you’re looking for, from the big walls to navigating the pinnacles, from scaling the towers to one pitch climbs. Adventures on a climbing holiday in Italy highlight the diversified landscapes of this beautiful land, and you can be a part of it.

When to Go

The best time to travel to Italy is from April to June and in late September to October. At these times the temperatures are the mildest and there aren’t huge crowds. From June to the middle of September, the summer crowds can be busy. August is when the heat is intense and many Italians take a vacation for the entire month.

Top Tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking on your holiday.
There aren’t many public toilets. You can find some in large railway stations. Sometimes you have to pay for their use. And carry some toilet paper with you, as many public toilets won’t have any available.
When traveling on the train, ensure you get your ticket stamped at a yellow machine along the track. If you fail to get it stamped, the conductor on the train can hand-stamp it for you if you explain the situation.
Making phone calls within Italy will require a telephone card, which can be purchased from a tobacco shop with sign of a white letter T on a black background.

Italy Holidays In Focus

Culture and History

Rome is the best place to begin your cultural holiday in Italy. You can see many sides to this city, from ancient to medieval or from Christian to Renaissance. The Capitoline Museum in the Piazza del Campidoglio offers fragments from a gigantic sculpture of Constantine and artifacts range from those of the 1st century BC to the 17th century AD. The Keats-Shelley Memorial House is the apartment where the English poet, John Keats, spent the last months of his life. You can see memorabilia and paintings of Keats, Shelly or Byron. At Galleria Borghese you’ll discover several paintings by Caravaggio and some Bernini sculptures.

You must also visit the Napoleonic Museum and the Vatican Museum on your tours of Italy. The Colosseum and the Pantheon, as well as the Roman Forum go without saying. In Florence, see how the Medicis lived by touring the Palazzo Pitti. See the incredible leaning tower of the La Torre di Pisa and climb to the top for an aerial view. It’s 294 steps to the top and you are allowed only 30 minutes each visit. The Baptistery in Florence is also a place you must see, with descriptive artwork praised by Michelangelo. Climb the Campanile for a panoramic view of Florence.

Sightseeing On Tours Of Italy

Incredible sightseeing awaits you in Italy. There is probably no other country in the world so filled with such sights and sounds as that of this lovely country. In Rome the Arch of Constantine commemorates the Battle of the Milvian Bridge and you can see where the ancient temple of Jupiter stood on Capitoline Hill. Walk to the top when on the Janiculum Walk so you can see the lovely views of the Alban Hills.

At Pincio Gardens you will also find unbelievable vistas of Rome, especially at sunset. On Quirinal Hill, the highest of hills in Rome, you can discover St. Peter's dome in the distance. In Via del Corso you will see the famous street where in the 19th century numerous cafés, boutiques, and bookstores thrived. Now you can visit the present-day shops and cafés.

Don’t pass up a chance to see Michelangelo's "David" in Florence, or the inspiration of the Neptune Fountain, surrounded by delightful sculptures. Ponte Vecchio was built in 972 AD and is lined by the best goldsmiths and jewelers in Florence. You will have the opportunity to pick up some wonderful souvenirs and trinkets at Mercato Nuovo (New Market) and also see this fascinating market that has been in operation since the sixteenth century.

Trekking

Among the places that are popular trekking on an Italian holiday are the Valcamonica, where you can view incredible rock art, and along a pilgrimage trail called La Via Francigena. Hike the Cinque Terre or around the Ligurian Mountains for a terrific wandering journey. Tour the Amalfi coast and don’t miss the Island of Capri. See the rock carvings by trekking the Val Camonica in the Cal Camonica valley. Through small villages with narrow streets, past women draped with shawls and old men whittling on the stoops, you will see the best in Italy on a trekking tour.

Cycling

When in Italy in May, you can first take part in some spectator sports by watching the Giro d'Italia, a famous long distance bicycle race. But you want to cycle this lovely country yourself, cycle through Imperia and see breathtaking views with rich natural sites to see along the way. Bike the Ligurian Alps and perhaps catch a glimpse of some alpine hares or a golden eagle. In Lombardy, one of the largest areas in Italy, you will not only see wonderful hilly sections of the country, but also enjoy the lakes in the foothills of the Alps. Sleepy villages in the Veneto highlight the age-old tradition of cycling in Italy. One of the smallest regions of Italy can offer immense pleasure in your biking adventure as you cycle past plains, beaches and lagoons so you’ll find that Friuli-Venezia Giulia is magical in its wonders.

Probably the most fascinating area to travel is Tuscany. Moving along from the Tyrrheanian coast through the wooded slopes of the Apennine Mountains, you will be able to observe workers in the fields, thick forests and historic villages. If cycling is your passion then Italy will charm you with its incredible history and landscapes.

Water Sports

With over 5,000 miles of coastline, Italy has become one of Europe’s best summer holiday destinations. Facilities can be found to make your holiday more enjoyable, like deckchairs being made available for a small charge. You’ll find whatever you desire at the major resorts. There’s a large 219-mile stretch from France to Tuscany, which is known as the Italian Riviera, and the Adriatic or Amalfi coasts are also top choices. Surf in Mauro or go diving along the coast of Tuscany or Liguria. Rivers in northern Italy offer some great fishing. You can go sailing on any of the lakes throughout the country, such as Como, Lugano, Maggiore or Garda.

Winter Sports

The Italian Alps are the perfect choice for skiing and winter sports in Italy. Anywhere you find skiing, you’ll also find other winter fun, like snowboarding, bobsledding and snowmobiling. If you head west of Turin, you’ll be able to experience the resorts of Sauze d’Oulx or Sestriere in the Piedmont region. In the eastern regions of Italy, you can visit the Dolomites, but continue east and you’ll find some great skiing destinations and the resorts of Madonna di Campiglio and Cortina D’Ampezzo.

Further north, the Aosta Valley will be the area to visit, where you can take one of the highest cable cars in all of Europe and see the Matterhorn, Monte Bianco, and the Monte Rosa with a number of fabulous ski resorts. In Central Italy, Abetone in Tuscany and Campo Imperatore in Abruzzo to visit on your Italy holidays.

Climbing On Italy Holidays

For the best in climbing, you can try out the Dolomites, with multi-day excursions, retracing the paths of the pioneers such as Buhl, Solda and Comici. You will experience the peaks of the Alps, the Lake Garda Range and the Brenta Range. The Brenta Range actually belongs to the Central Alps and is bounded on all sides by valleys. You can spend many summer days here climbing a number of fine routes, with various levels of difficulty. At the north edge of Lake Garda, you’ll find a quality rock climbing area with about thirty limestone crags. Another place of choice is Lake Como, which offers a range of climbing experiences on vacations Italy. Try Muzzerone for some sea cliff climbing and exciting rock climbing near Naples.

Classic Itineraries For Vacations Italy

Take a canal boat tour in Venice to discover the charm of the world’s most unique city.
Visit the Pantheon in Rome and explore the history of this fabulous monument, saved from plunder and invasion through 20 centuries.
See the Galleria dell'Accademia museum in Florence and view one of the most famous statues anywhere, Michelangelo's David, portraying the ancient hero who killed Goliath with a little slingshot.
Tour the major cities of Italy by train, and see Rome, Milan, Florence and Venice in two or three weeks.
Take a tour of museums in Tuscany, in popular cities like Florence, Siena, Arezzo, and Livorno.

Article source by : http://www.puretravel.com/Guide/Europe/Southern_Europe/italy

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Top 10 Cities of Chinese Food

Chinese cuisine and recipes have been spreading around the world rapidly. Whether you are in the mood for basic comfort foods like egg rolls and chicken lo mein, or more sophisticated selection like grilled octopus salad and Peking duck, these spots will satisfy your craving for a taste of the Far East. So pick up your chopsticks and dig in at one of these Top 10 Chinese cuisines, listed in cities with the most famous food and cooking.

1. Beijing - Roast Duck

As the capital city of China, Beijing is home to almost all kinds of cuisines and foods in China, and tourists can taste any flavors that you want. Although Beijing accepts the Western food in recent years due to the rapid development, the local food is still the most popular attractions for the tourists. Roast Duck is no doubt the best representative of Chinese cuisine, which has a centuries-old history seeming to be even more popular than Donald Duck. The roasted duck with bronzed crispy shin and tender, succulent meat, served by dozens of restaurants, among which Quanjude and Bianyifang are the best famous. Besides, Beijing Imperial Court Food, Beijing Snacks, Imperial Official Food, Medicinal Food and Hot Pot are also the best and special flavors of Beijing City.

2. Guangzhou - Roast Suckling Pig

Guangzhou is universally known for its excellent food, and Cantonese cuisine is one the famous eight in China with different flavors and styles, by using diverse and delicate materials, exotic spices and various cooking skills. There is a saying: "Except for the Plane and the stool, Guangzhou people eat everything in the sky and on the earth", through which we can get some idea of the variety of Guangzhou's delicacies. The most famous foods include the Roast Suckling Pig, Dragon Fighting against the Tiger, Taiye Chicken, Stewed Wild Dog Meat, Shuang Pi Nai, Jidi Zhou, Yuntun Mian, Chang Fen, Guiling Gao and many special fruits.

3. Tianjin - Goubuli Steamed Stuffed Bun

Tianjin Dinging culture is renowned throughout China and the world, and not only the traditional Tianjin snacks, but also the cuisines from other regions of China can also be found because of its long and rich history and culture. Food Street is a fairly good place for tourists to sample these cross-cultural Chinese dishes and its traditional and famed snacks cannot be missed should you ever come to visit this charming municipality. Goubuli Steamed Stuffed Bun, Ear-Hole Fried Cake, Fried Dough Twist, Chatang, Guobacai, and Tangdui are the most famous and popular snacks in Tianjin and tourists always come to the Food Street to taste all of them.

4. Shanghai - Da Zha Xie

Shanghai, with so many business people rushing in, is not only China's economic and cultural center, but also a "Grand View Garden" for dinners of all tastes. Actually, Shanghai does not have a definitive cuisine of its own, but refines those of the surrounding provinces such as Jiangsu and Zhejiang. Known as Hui Cai among the Chinese, Shanghai cuisine is the youngest of the ten major cuisines in China, with a history of only 400 years. Shanghai Dishes aim at lightness in flavor, and beautifulness in decoration. The raw materials are well cut, and the colors harmoniously arranged. Sweet and Sour is a typical Shanghai taste. The Dim Sum of Shanghai foods and snacks are the Sheng Jian Mantou, Xiao Long Bao, Four Heavenly Kings, Da Zha Xie, Crispy Chicken, and Congshao Crucian Carp.

5. Chongqing - Hot Pot

Chongqing dishes are rich in flavor and use almost 40 different cooking methods in their preparation, and it is largely a hybrid of Sichuan cuisine and local specialty dishes. It would seem that people in Chongqing are never weary of eating, and thousands of restaurants and eating malls are scattered throughout every corner of the city, luring tourists from home and abroad with their different specialties. As one branch of Sichuan cuisine, Chongqing cuisine is noted for its distinctive spicy and pungent flavors, and they are spicier and stronger in taste. Chongqing is the birth place of the hot pot in China, designed to protect against the low temperatures and frigid winds of the winter. Nowadays, it has become more and more popular, widely enjoyed by people regardless of seasons and regions.

6. Foshan - Shuangpi Milk

Foshan is the hometown of delicious food of the Pearl River Delta, and eating in Foshan is a great praise for Foshan in history. Foshan chefs can cook almost everything into gastronomic delicacies, whether it is meat, vegetable or fruit. Influenced by its diversity of local flavors and specialties, Foshan has created a rich variety of dishes and snacks, and has formed its own food culture through hundreds of years of development and innovation. Additionally, the locals prefer to drink morning tea and evening tea, accompanied with some dim sum. The most featured snacks include the Foshan Manggong Cake, Double-Skin Milk, Nine Layers of Cakes, Wonton Noodle, Jidi Porridge, Goose Palm with Orange Peel, Sliced Frogs, and much more.

7. Hangzhou - Dongpo Pork

Hangzhou cuisine is the representative of Zhejiang Cuisine, one of China's eight cuisines, and it wins the reputation for freshness, tenderness, softness, smoothness of its dishes with mellow fragrance. A great poet of Song Dynasty once praised it as follows: there is no food that can compare with the Hangzhou cuisine. Famous dishes like West Lake Sour Fish, Dongpo Pork, Longjing Shrimp Meat, Jiaohua Young Chickens, Steam Rice Flower and Port Wrapped by Lotus Leaves, Braised Bamboo Shoots and Lotus Root Powder are widely known and popular among both local people and tourists. The best way to describe Hangzhou cuisine is the wide use of southern ingredients cooked in the typical northern manner, and this combination leads to a unique taste combing the dainty and the smooth, the crisp and the tender, the simple and the elegant, the small and the exquisite.

8. Nanjing - Salty Duck

Nanjing cuisine has fine cutting techniques and is skillful in timing, hence, it has thick flavor with tastiness of the four directions and caters to tastes of people from eight directions. It wins over many specifically by its freshness, fragrance, crispness and tenderness. The most famous delicacy streets are Dashiba Food Street located near the Confucius Temple and Shiziqiao in Hunan Street, and the restaurants situated in Xinjiekou and around Nanjing University are recommended. The most featured snacks and dishes include Nanjing Salty Duck, Baked Duck, Duck Blood and Sweet Potato Starch Noodle Soup, Fried Beef Dumplings, Steamed Dumplings, Soup Dumplings, Sour Vegetable Fish Soup, Crawfish, Return to Sauce Tofu, Stinky Tofu, and much more.

9. Changsha - Chou Dofu

Hunan Cuisine is one of the eight famous kinds of cuisines in China, known for its delicate use of pepper, which results in a pungent flavor. It consists of more than 4,000 dishes, among which more than 300 are very famous, characterized by its hot and sour flavor, fresh aroma, greasiness, deep color, and the prominence of the main flavor in each dish. In Changsha, you can taste the most authentic Hunan dishes, such as Spicy Young Chicken, Zuyan Sark's Fin, Braised Eel, Chicken, Dove and Sparrow, Changsha Maren Crispy Duck, etc. Tourists can never miss its most featured and delicious foods include the Bean Curd with Odor, Changsha Maren Crispy Duck, Deyuan Steamed Bun, Liu Defang Tangyuan, Kouwei Shrimp, and much more.

10. Chengdu - Hot Pot

Chengdu food and dishes culture is very famous at home and abroad, and there is a saying that "All good foods can be found in Chengdu". As the priority of the Eight Great Cuisines in China and famous all over the world for its richness and variey, Sichuan Cuisine is characterized by spicy and pungent flavor with a myriad of tastes, emphasizing the use of chili, red hot peppers and garlic. In Chengdu, there is a strange feature: lots of restaurants assemble to operate on the same street. Especially on the Yangxi Line, there are hundreds of restaurants operating different dishes: Sichuan Cuisine, Cantonese Cuisine, Chaozhou dishes, Northeastern Cuisine and even Korean Food. The most featured foods and dishes include the Hot Pot, Smoked Duck, Kung Pao Chicken, Twice Cooked Pork and Mapo Dofu.

Article source : http://www.chinatouristmaps.com/top-10s/top-10-cities-of-chinese-food.html

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Living in the Dominican Republic - The Ultimate Experience

Most people in the United States and Western Europe do not wish to retire in a fast paced city where they have spent several years working endless hours to make ends meet. After a certain age, one surely wishes to wake up in a place where it is possible to smell the flowers, take in easy and relax. Considering the retirement places in these countries can be pretty hefty, most people let their dream of retiring in a nice dwelling by the beach, die a slow death. Well, here is good news for them. Dominican Republic offers the ultimate tropical experience in the form of fantastic homes, condos, villas, sack, etc, perfect sandy white beaches and a laidback vibe. And the best part is that it is possible to have it all at a reasonable cost.

Is there really a catch? Surprisingly no! Investing in Dominican Republic real estate has become an "it" trend followed by Americans, Western Europeans, retires and baby boomers. Now is a better time than ever before to invest in a second home in DR. Dominican Republic offers a rare combination of hustle bustle of a busy place combined with serenity of a natural getaway. A very tourist friendly destination, DR is ancrazily bustling place during the peak season. And even for the rest of the year, there is never any dearth of events, activities, etc. Whether you are a golf aficionado or a beach bum or a nature lover, you will simply love it here.

If the thought of selling your home in another country and moving here altogether is giving you jitters then it is a safe idea to book yourself in a cosy vacation rental to see what the fuss is all about. In fact, with the help of easy mortgages available, a good scheme can help you keep both your homes so that you can shuttle back and forth.

Having the support and efficiency of a professional Dominican Republic real estate company can be of great help. They can assist you with everything from the documentation to renting your place out when not in use to getting a good mortgage deal. It is also a great idea to shop around for your realtor in the Dominican Republic online. Always go with someone who wants happy customers and not someone just interested in making fast money by selling you something you don't want.

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Italy Tours & Adventure Travel Guide

Guide - Italy

Italy Holidays – Italy Tours & Adventure Travel Guide

PureTravel Says
“Vacations Italy presents you with a host of incredible sights, many dating back to the start of Western civilization. The beauty and splendor of Italy knows no bounds, and the historical and cultural sites beckon those who love to learn more about our world. Travelling by train anywhere in the country is a simple task, and you can take in shopping and museums or participate in summer water sports. The route along the Amalfi Coast or touring Rome’s hub could be your opportunity to experience some of the most incredible sightseeing you’ve ever done.”