Showing posts with label BEAUTIFUL WORLD. Show all posts
Showing posts with label BEAUTIFUL WORLD. Show all posts
BEAUTIFUL WORLD - 11 places to go in 2014
11 places to go in 2014
December 14, 2013 -- Updated 0554 GMT (1354 HKT)
Panama: Canal's 100th birthday
The Panama Canal's 100-year anniversary arguably is not, in and of itself, a top five reason for visiting the
country in 2014. But the events surrounding the big day and Panama's other attractions certainly are.
Brazil: The World Cup
If you're a football fan, or a beach fan, or a party fan, or a wildlife fan, and especially if you're all of the above,
Brazil will be hard to beat as a destination in 2014. Hosting the World Cup during June and July,
it also offers great areas like the Amazon basin and the amazing Iguazu Falls.
Myanmar: Tourism 'Master Plan'
Myanmar has been touted as "the next big tourism destination" for a few years already, but getting around the
country has proved tricky. That's started to change already and next year it's going to accelerate under
a new tourism "master plan."
Iceland: Best Northern Lights for years
"With NASA scientists predicting that an 11-year cycle of solar activity will peak this winter, for the first few months of 2014 the Northern Lights are expected to put on their most spectacular display for the next decade," says David Phillips, operations manager for Explorers Astronomy Tours.
Ecuador: Becoming a 'tourism powerhouse'
In the last few months Ecuador's new Minister of Tourism, Vinicio Alvarado, announced a $600 million investment
in tourism over the next four years as part of a plan to become a "tourism powerhouse."
It's probably the best vacation spot you haven't yet considered, unless your name's Julian Assange.
It's probably the best vacation spot you haven't yet considered, unless your name's Julian Assange.
New Zealand: 2,500-kilometer cycle trail
If doing more exercise is one of your 2014 resolutions (and this time you mean it), an extended trip to New Zealand could provide the means. The 2,500-kilometer Nga Haerenga cycle trail in New Zealand will be completed in 2014, showcasing the best of the country's landscape, culture and heritage.
Costa Rica: Officially approved beaches
If you're the type that likes awards and official stamps of approval before buying your vacation, the beaches in
Nosara in Costa Rica just winked at you.
They're likely to become popular in 2014, thanks to the recent award of a Blue Flag -- an international
They're likely to become popular in 2014, thanks to the recent award of a Blue Flag -- an international
certification awarded to beaches that offer top quality and environmentally friendly experiences.
Japan: Brand new festivals
The 50th anniversary of the bullet train, several new festivals (in a country already in possession of some bizarre ones), a new luxurious cruise train called Seven Stars offering visitors a spectacular new way to explore the
prefecture of Kyushu -- there are plenty of reasons to visit Japan in 2014.
East Africa: One visa, three countries
Spotting gorillas in Uganda and rhino in Kenya will become a less complicated affair in 2014 after changes to visa regulations come into effect.
"Visiting the mountain gorillas in Rwanda is a trip of a lifetime, but the magical experience itself lasts just one hour once you get up close to them," says Brad John-Davis, general manager for PEAK Africa.
"Visiting the mountain gorillas in Rwanda is a trip of a lifetime, but the magical experience itself lasts just one hour once you get up close to them," says Brad John-Davis, general manager for PEAK Africa.
San Sebastián: Culture and food capital
This Spanish city says it has moreMichelin stars (a total of 16) per square meter than any other place in the world.
It's also gearing up for its 2016 stint as European Capital of Culture. Get there before everyone else does urges Daniel Fesenmaier from Temple University's School of Tourism and Hospitality. Management.
Tallinn, Estonia: Tunnels and Titanic meals
Tallinn's beautiful old town is reason any year to head to this under-visited city, but in 2014 its most popular tourist attraction will become significantly more accessible, thanks to plans to complete excavation of the tunnels
beneath the famous bastion walls. A Titanic Artifact exhibition has also recently opened, hosting several
gala dinners inspired by the last night on the doomed ship.
INDIA - Top 10 Places You Must Visit When You Come to India
Article by Sushmita Ghosh
India is said to be a vast and diverse country with various forms of culture, languages, places etc. It provides the travelers with sacred temples to beaches to mountains to superlative cities and many more. India has always been praised for welcoming its tourists with great warmth. Often called as Incredible India in terms of tourism, there are many places which are in itself beautifully serene and historic to see. Lots of tourists are attracted with the places in India and visit every year which makes their trip a memorable one. Since India has got variety of places to visit every year, there are few places which are a must to visit whenever coming to India:
10. AJANTA AND ELLORA CAVES
Ajanta and Ellora caves are situated in Aurangabad District of Maharashtra considered to be the most famous archaeological places in India. In spite of two different destinations they are often mentioned together due to their rock cut structures. The Ajanta caves was built during 2nd century BC with 30 rock cut cave monuments whose construction was done in two phases: 1st group of caves built in 200 BC and 2nd group of caves built in 600 AD. The caves consist of beautiful paintings and sculptures which are considered to be masterpieces of Buddhist Religious Art having figures of Buddha and depicting Jataka tales. After being covered by jungle these these caves were rediscovered by a British forest officer named John Smith in 1819.
Ellora caves were built by the Rashtrakuta rulers which comprises of 34 caves structures excavated out of Chandrani Hills. It depicts the Indian Rock Cut Architecture.
It is believed that the Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monk meditated inside and performed rituals in the Viharas and Chaityas of both the caves. These caves are under the protection of Archaeological Surveys of India and are designated as an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ellora caves were built by the Rashtrakuta rulers which comprises of 34 caves structures excavated out of Chandrani Hills. It depicts the Indian Rock Cut Architecture.
It is believed that the Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monk meditated inside and performed rituals in the Viharas and Chaityas of both the caves. These caves are under the protection of Archaeological Surveys of India and are designated as an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
9. DARJEELING
It is known as the Queen of Hill Stations or Visitor’s Paradise which is the first hill station to be established by the British. It is said to be surrounded by peaks of Himalayas and Buddhist monasteries and is located in the state of West Bengal popular for its Toy Train which runs to give us a sight of beautiful nature , tea production, the highest peak of Darjeeling The Tiger Hills giving a awe aspiring view of Mt.Everest as well as Mt.Kanchenjunga, trekking destination Singalila National Park , Himalayan Zoo and many more follow.
Darjeeling Tea which is famous for its pleasant aroma and taste is the best thing to have while exploring the place. Thus, Darjeeling is a place which should be visited to explore the clean fresh mountain air and natural splendor.
Darjeeling Tea which is famous for its pleasant aroma and taste is the best thing to have while exploring the place. Thus, Darjeeling is a place which should be visited to explore the clean fresh mountain air and natural splendor.
8. VARANASI
Earlier known as Banaras is considered to be the oldest city in the world. Varanasi is situated on the banks of Holy River Ganga in Uttar Pradesh. This city gave rise to Hinduism and Jainism and according to Hindus the Ghats of Varanasi is sacred for the Hindu rituals. Due to unique change of flow of the Ganga river there was a development of the ancient city named Kashi in Varanasi. People from different parts of the world come specially to bathe and pray in the Ganga river along with the other religious bathing rivers of Varanasi and sip the Ganga Jal to purify themselves. It is believed by the Hindus that dying in Varanasi or flowing ashes in the river of Ganga brings salvation.
7. RAJASTHAN
Known as the Land of Royals is a city which depicts the images and glimpses of the lives of brave Maharajahs, Rajputanas, warriors along with the forts and the palaces. Many of the palaces or “havelis” have been converted into big heritage hotels for the tourists. It is a complete blend of Indian culture that attracts people from different regions of the world. Rajasthan is the home to most of the stunning places to visit which include on the top its capital Jaipur known as the Pink city of Rajasthan where people can have a sight of the Ajmer Fort, Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, City Palace and various other heritage monuments.
Next comes Jaisalmer known as the Golden city of Rajasthan which is close to the Thar desert. The most famous part of Jaisalmer is the jaisalmer Fort which unlike other forts of India, is the oldest “living” fort which consists of shops, havelis ,etc. where people still live and work. Camel Safari in the sand dunes of Jaisalmer is a memorable experience.
Udaipur known as the City of Lakes. City Palace built in a flamboyant style is considered to be the largest palace in the city of Rajasthan situated near the East Bank of Lake Pichkola and the Lake palace of Udaipur is the most famous one which is located in the Jag Niwas island of Pichkola Lake. Other lakes like Sateh sagar lake, Swaroop Sagar, Udaisagar lake are some of the beautiful lakes to visit in Udaipur. These lakes and palaces along with lively cultures attract many tourists to this city.
Blue city of Jodhpur, beautiful deserts of Bikaner, hill station of Mt.Abu are some of the more interesting places to visit in the city of Rajasthan. Thus, Rajasthan is all about old charm, delight, camels, culture and for its warm hospitality towards its tourists.
Next comes Jaisalmer known as the Golden city of Rajasthan which is close to the Thar desert. The most famous part of Jaisalmer is the jaisalmer Fort which unlike other forts of India, is the oldest “living” fort which consists of shops, havelis ,etc. where people still live and work. Camel Safari in the sand dunes of Jaisalmer is a memorable experience.
Udaipur known as the City of Lakes. City Palace built in a flamboyant style is considered to be the largest palace in the city of Rajasthan situated near the East Bank of Lake Pichkola and the Lake palace of Udaipur is the most famous one which is located in the Jag Niwas island of Pichkola Lake. Other lakes like Sateh sagar lake, Swaroop Sagar, Udaisagar lake are some of the beautiful lakes to visit in Udaipur. These lakes and palaces along with lively cultures attract many tourists to this city.
Blue city of Jodhpur, beautiful deserts of Bikaner, hill station of Mt.Abu are some of the more interesting places to visit in the city of Rajasthan. Thus, Rajasthan is all about old charm, delight, camels, culture and for its warm hospitality towards its tourists.
6. MUMBAI
Called as the Amchi Mumbai by the citizens of India is a city of dreams, glamour, fashion, film , stars being the capital of Maharashtra. It is a city that never sleeps and is the biggest metropolitan city as well as the financial capital of India. Whenever one hears the name of Mumbai first things that comes to the mind is Bollywood filM industry which gave success to many stars. Famous street foods like the Pao Bhaji., Bhel Puri, Vada Pao are a delight to eat. Most tourist visiting places include The Gateway of India, Haji Ali Dargah, Juhu Beach , Marine Drive , The Taj Hotel and many more impressive old monuments. But the most famous Mannat SRK’s bungalow is the one which anybody would like to have a sight of.
Being one of the most populous cities of India, it is the place with full of surprises and ample of facilities where people come to pursue their dreams.
Being one of the most populous cities of India, it is the place with full of surprises and ample of facilities where people come to pursue their dreams.
5. KASHMIR
Described as the Paradise on Earth due to its natural beauty is surrounded by the great Himalayas on one side and Pir Panjal mountains on the other. The valley of Kashmir is decorated by the spell bounding lakes , crystal like sparkling water streams, apple orchards, snow clad mountains, breath-taking beautiful hill stations with lush green pine forests along with the serene landscapes make it more worth to visit the place. Various lakes such as Wular Lake, Dal Lake and Mansbal Lake along with the various hill stations namely Verinag, Daksum, Yusmarg, Pahalgam etc. are some of the must visiting venues of the Kashmir Valley. Staying in a house-boat is something which anybody wants to experience. Kashmir even provides with trekking activities along with water rafting, wildlife, and the list continues. Thus, Kashmir is the satisfactory place for a tourist due to its spirituality or adventure explorations.
4. DELHI
Delhi known as the capital territory of India showcases the ancient past as well as the modern present being divided into two parts of the old city of Old Delhi and the well planned New Delhi respectively. National Meuseum, Craft Meuseum, ancient architectural monuments like the Red Fort, Qutub MInar, Jantar Mantar, Humayun’s tomb, Lotus temple, India Gate , Parliament house are the most popular tourist places to visit built during the Old delhi times. Dilli Haat, Chandni Chowk, Janpath are some of the famous bazaars where tourist can go for shopping. Chats and kebabs of old Delhi makes one to visit the place again and again along with the luxury spas, bars and restaurants. Thus, it’s interesting to explore both the kinds of Delhi whenever visiting India.
3. KERALA
Situated in the south west region of Malabar coast is refered as the God’s own country and even is the most cleanest city of India. Its unique culture and traditions, art forms, sand beaches, magical festivals , wildlife sanctuaries make Kerala one of the most popular tourist destination in India as well as the world. The most famously Backwaters which are chain of lagoons and lakes lying back to Malabar sea coast provide a relaxing experience where one can calm the mind riding on houseboat getting sight of the amazing views of nature. Kumarokom, Astamudi lake, Vembanad Lake are some of the most famous backwaters to visit.
According to the National Geographic Traveller, Kerala is ranked as one of the “Ten Paradises of the world” due to its greenery, varied demography , ecotourism initiatives, Ayurveda, yoga, health care, followed by many more. Thus, one can sooth and revitalize oneself by visiting this natural beauty of its own Kerala.
According to the National Geographic Traveller, Kerala is ranked as one of the “Ten Paradises of the world” due to its greenery, varied demography , ecotourism initiatives, Ayurveda, yoga, health care, followed by many more. Thus, one can sooth and revitalize oneself by visiting this natural beauty of its own Kerala.
2. AGRA
Agra located at the banks of Yamuna river is known for its Mughal archaeological monuments. But the most famous monument for which Agra is known is the Taj Mahal which served as a symbol of eternal love of Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz. This monument which took 22 years to get completed was finished in marble thus considered to be the most beautiful and fascinating monuments which a person cannot forget to explore.
Taj Mahal has been ranked as one of the three World Heritage sites in Agra and characterized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the world.
Apart from this, Agra Fort, Jama Masjid, Fatehpur Sikri are some of the must tourist attractions and the pethas of Agra are a must to taste. Thus, Agra for its historical significance and archaeological monuments stands 2nd in the list of the must visiting places in India.
Taj Mahal has been ranked as one of the three World Heritage sites in Agra and characterized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the world.
Apart from this, Agra Fort, Jama Masjid, Fatehpur Sikri are some of the must tourist attractions and the pethas of Agra are a must to taste. Thus, Agra for its historical significance and archaeological monuments stands 2nd in the list of the must visiting places in India.
1.GOA
Renowned for its pristine and beautiful beaches Goa is the biggest tourist attracting place in India in spite of being the smallest state. It attracts more than 2 million tourists every year just because of its vivid nightlife, tasty seafood, churches. Baga and Anjuna are the most famous beaches of Goa where the tourist can relax by having sunbathe or indulge in any water sports like jet skiing, windsurfing, paragliding and lots more. The beautiful churches are a must to visit along with the Wednesday Flea market. Goa’s popular drink- Fenny and by enjoying to the tunes of the music played by the DJ’s on the beaches can help in refreshing up the mind.
Due to its mix blend of national and international cultures, limelight, cooling beaches it makes it more worth to visit this serene place again and again topping the list.
Source: http://listdose.com
BEAUTIFUL WORLD - Eerie beauty of the toxic bubbles
Eerie beauty of the toxic bubbles: Pictures capture highly-flammable methane trapped just inches below surface of frozen lake
- - Bubbles are formed when plants on the lake bed release methane gas, which freezes
as it reaches the lake surface - - Scientists believe that if the temperature of the planet continues to rise, gas could be
released into the atmosphere - - Stunning photographs taken at Lake Abraham in Canada by Darwin Wiggett
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Despite their beautiful appearance, these strange white bubbles trapped just inches under the surface of this frozen ice are in fact highly-flammable pockets of toxic gas methane with potentially deadly effects.
The bubbles are formed when plants on the lake bed release methane gas, which freezes as it nears the cold surface of the lake, with further bubbles stacking up below.
These stunning photographs of the phenomenon were captured on the frozen ice over Lake Abraham, located in Alberta, Canada, among the foothills of the Rocky mountains.
Phenomenon: Despite their beautiful appearance, these strange white bubbles trapped just inches
under the surface of this frozen ice are in fact highly-flammable pockets of toxic gas methane
Ice work: Canadian photographer, Darwin Wiggett, 52, risks his life on the potentially unstable frozen lakes in order to capture the perfect picture
The artificial lake was created in 1972, with the construction of the Bighorn Dam, and named after Silas Abraham, an inhabitant of the Saskatchewan River valley in the nineteenth century.
Canadian photographer, Darwin Wiggett, 52, risks his life carefully navigating the potentially unstable frozen lakes in order to capture the perfect picture.
He said: 'Keeping your fingers working, staying warm, making sure you or your equipment does not blow away and being safe on the ice is the hardest part.
'It's very dangerous because the lake is a man-made reservoir and the water levels change over the winter season cause sheets of ice to collapse and seams of the ice to weaken where the lake water and shoreline meet.
'You need to be able to read ice conditions well to know if you are safe. Crampons, cold weather clothing gear and experience in high winds are necessary for those wanting to venture on the ice.'
Methane is a deadly greenhouse gas and 25 times more heat than carbon dioxide, unless you burn it first.
Some lakes, have 'hot spots' where the methane bubbling is so strong that ice never forms, leaving open holes big enough to spot from an aeroplane.
With over 20 years of experience, Darwin can spend days out on the ice waiting for the right conditions.
Darwin added: 'I have been shooting on Abraham Lake for 10 years and leading workshops and tours with my partner Samantha Chrysanthou and our company oopoomoo.
'Not counting the years of perfecting the art and craft of photography, a good shot can be almost immediate, if conditions are good, and can take days if conditions are not favorable.
'My friends and family love my photos but they don't get why we choose to go out in the cold to do photography.'
Frozen solid: The bubbles form when methane gas is released by plants on the lake bed.
The gas rises and as it reaches the colder surface of the lake freezes, forming these spectacular
formations, with more bubbles stacking up below