Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Asia's Wonderful Waterfalls

Asia is indeed blessed with natural wonders, from the pristine white beaches to the exceptionally beautiful nature reserves and parks, thus it is of no wonder why tourists from various part of the globe love to spend vacations and holidays in Asian countries. These natural wonders also include the spectacular and breathtaking waterfalls which are scattered in the continent of Asia. If you are more into nature trips, the following list of famous waterfalls might help you in deciding your next holiday trip.

Jog Falls in India is the largest and the tallest waterfall in the country. It is comprised of four waterfalls named Raja, Roar, Rocket and Rani. The sight of these waterfalls during the monsoon season is just exhilarating, however the hydroelectric developments in the upstream robbed the beauty of these waterfalls during the rest of the season.

Aptly named as the most picturesque waterfall in China, perhaps in the whole Asia, Detian Waterfall is located in the Karst hills of Guangxi Province of China and in the district of Trung Khanh in Vietnam side. It is currently the 4th largest waterfall along a national boarder. It is a multi-tiered waterfall with a 30 meters water drop separated into 3 falls by rocks and trees. Definitely a must-see attraction when you book an airfare to China.

Regarded as Thailand’s largest waterfall, Thi Lo Su Waterfall is a sight to behold with its multi-segmented and multi-tiered water course. It’s famous to its visitors not only because of its scenic beauty but for the certain grace and character it possesses which allows people to swim in some of its tiers.

Unchalli Falls at Karnataka, India is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the country. It’s impressive for its reliable flow, its rather unusual flow which seems like vidfoss-like and the dramatic scenery around its lush surroundings. If you’ll visit this waterfall around midday, you can see a rainbow appearing in the waterfall’s rising mist.

With a 74 meters height and 81 meters width, Huangguoshu Waterfall is regarded as one of China’s biggest waterfall. It has a classical squarish shape with a character of thunderous wall of water to graceful parallel watery columns. Most of the tourists who have visited this waterfall cannot help but capture the magnificent sight over and over again with their camera. So check your camera when you check your air ticket to China on your departure date.

Mae Ya Waterfall at the Doi Ithanon National Park is popular to its visitors because of the triangular cascade of its waters. Truly , a postcard-perfect sight that’s why most of the tourists who come to see Mae Ya always bring along a camera to capture the picturesque scenery.

If you love the wonderful view at the Mae Ya Waterfall, you’ll surely appreciate the beauty of Nohkalikai Falls which is located at the forgotten northeast corner of India. Its reliable flow plus the color of the cliff and the bright blue pool at its base entice tourists to come to this place for several times.

The peaceful setting and the laid back atmosphere of the Nachi Falls in Japan provides reason for tourists to purchase an airfare to Japan to see its exceptional beauty and indulge in the tranquility the place offers to its visitors. It is considered as the country’s tallest permanent vertical waterfall having 133 meters height. It is said that this waterfall is among the few where you can see a pagoda or from within a genuine old temple.

The towering 97 meter waterfall of Kegon Falls at Chuzenji –ko, Japan is known for its grandeur and setting. It has a forceful and tall cascade with spectacular sights from the different angle of the waterfall. Sightings of brilliant rainbows during the mornings are usual sights here.

Regarded as the “husband and wife waterfall” of Japan, Ginga and Ryusei Waterfalls is one of the most visited and photographed attraction in the Land of the Rising Sun. It is quite unusual to see two waterfalls tumble side by side being split by a giant rock. The scenery is just extraordinary with the lush surroundings backed by the snowy mountains at the wilderness of the Daisetsuzan’s backcountry.

No doubt, each waterfall possesses unique charm and varied picturesque scenes, just prepare your self to be amazed by the wonders of nature!

Monday, January 9, 2012

Famous Bridges

Taking pictures is one of the things that tourists of every generation enjoy especially when traveling to a place with attractions famous all over the globe for its beauty and historical significance. Bridges with magnificent designs and spectacular views are among the most photographed structures. Here’s the list of the famous bridges all over the world that might help you in planning your holiday.

The Great Belt Bridge in Denmark is one of the famous bridges in the world. It is divided into two sections by the island of Sprogo - the eastern and western part. The eastern bridge is 254 meters (833ft) above sea level making its two pylons the highest points in Denmark. It is also considered as the bridge which has the third longest main span in the world, crossing the deepest part of Storebaelt between the islands of Zealand and Sprogo. On the other hand, West bridge is 6611 meters (21689ft) long rail and road bridge connecting the islands of Sprogo and Funen.

One of Switzerland’s main tourist attractions is the Chapel Bridge in the city of Lucerne. It is a 204 meter long oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe. This bridge is believed to be built around 1333 to help protect the city from attacks of its enemies. Paintings from the 17th century depicting the some events from the history of Lucerne can be seen inside the bridge. The bridge and paintings were destroyed by a fire in 1993 but they were quickly rebuilt.

In China Chengyang Bridge, the most famous rain and wind bridge in the region of Dong Minority was built in 1916. It is the largest of all wind and rain bridges measuring 64.4 meters long, 3.4 meters wide and 10.6 meters wide. This bridge which was made up of wood and stone, without nails or rivets stretches across the Linxi River. Until now, the bridge is still in heavy use.

Brooklyn Bridge is one of the tourist attractions in the city of New York. It has become an iconic landmark and every tourist who spends for an airfare to New York includes visiting this bridge as apart of itinerary. This bridge which spans across the East River connects Brooklyn to Manhattan. From the time of its completion in 1883 and for several years, it was named as the longest suspension bridge in the world. One can stroll along the wide pedestrian walkway and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.

A bridge that reflects the masterpiece of the ancient Roman bridge building can be found at Alcantara, Spain. Alcantara Bridge was built by an order of a Roman Emperor Trajan around 98 AD. Crossing the Tagus River, the bridge was built with two arches, one in the middle and one at the end to honor the emperor who initiated its construction. Both of the arches were destroyed during the war between the Moors and the Portuguese.

Sydney, Australia takes pride of having the largest bridge in the world. Sydney Harbour Bridge is a steel arch bridge that took eight years to build. It is considered as one among the most photographed iconic landmark in the city. Most of the tourists who purchased airfare to Sydney make it a point to see this magnificent bridge up close and document the moment by taking several pictures.

Crossing the Neretva River in the city of Mostar in Bosnia Herzegovina, Stari Most (“The Old Bridge”) was built by the Ottoman Turks in 1556. It served its purpose for 427 years until the Bosnian War in 1993 when it was destroyed. The bridge was rebuilt and opened to in 2004. It has been a tradition for the young men of the town to jump from the bridge to the river however since the water is very cold it is considered as a risky feat and only skilled divers should attempt to do it.

Another bridge well-known for its magnificent architecture is the Si-o-se Pol Bridge in the city of Isfahan, Iran. Made up of bricks and stones, this bridge is considered as an example of Safavid bridge design having 33 arches. It measures 295 meters long and 13.75 meters wide.

Japan has the longest suspension bridge in the world, the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge also known as the Pearl Bridge. It measures 1,991 meters (6532ft) long spanning the Akashi Strait in Japan connecting Kobe on the mainland and Iwaya on Awayi Island. The construction of the bridge took 12 years and was opened for traffic in 1998.

Tourists who will take a boat ride along the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy will get a chance to see the Rialto Bridge which is the oldest bridge among the four bridges spanning the Grand Canal. This stone bridge was predicted to collapse because of its audacious design however it defied its critics and has been considered as an architectural icon of Venice.

Charles Bridge is a famous stone bridge with a Gothic design spanning across the Vitava River in the city of Prague, Czech Republic. The bridge serves as the significant connection between the Old Town and the area around the Prague Castle because it is the only way to cross the Vitava River. It is one of the most visited sights in the city of Prague.

Tower Bridge is a must-see structure if you will be purchasing airfare to London to spend a holiday. A truly magnificent sight, the bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge across the Thames River. It consists of two towers tied at the upper level by a two horizontal walkways where one can see the panoramic view of the city. It got its name being situated nearby to the Tower of London and has become an iconic symbol of London.

Anyone crossing the Millau Viaduct in Millau, France will surely be captivated by the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape and the bridge itself. Millau Viaduct is the tallest vehicular bridge in the world having a pylon’s summit of 343 meters (1125ft) which is slightly higher than the Eifel’s Tower.

Internationally recognized as the symbol of Los Angeles and California, Golden Gate Bridge is a masterwork of Architect Joseph B. Strauss. It is a suspension bridge spanning the strait of Golden Gate between San Francisco and the Marin County to the north. The bridge was designed to have a red-orange color to make it easily visible through the fog that frequently covers the bridge.

Ponte Vecchio which means Old Bridge is a Medieval bridge across the Arno River in Florence, Italy. It is the only bridge in Florence that survived the World War II. The bridge is popular because of the shops built along the structure consisting of jewelers, art dealers and vendors of souvenir items.

With all the affordable airfare deals available online, seeing all these architectural wonders is not impossible. Just keep on searching and you’ll find one which will surely fit your budget.

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Exploring Mighty Moscow

Moscow, being the largest city in Russia is one among the famous tourist destination in Europe. Its architecture and sights are truly unique, offering a wonderful time for discoveries to its tourists.

Shopping is one of things a tourist can enjoy while visiting Moscow. Where could be the best place to do it other than the largest and most over-the-top shopping malls in Moscow – the Gum and Tsum. Housing expensive brands such as Burberry, Joop!, Hermes and Moschino, visitors and locals like to have a stroll in its capacious and architecturally stunning hallways. Cafe Tsum is an ideal place to rest and unwind after hours of checking out the various products displayed in each mall.

A trip to Moscow won’t be complete without visiting the “Patriarshy Prudiy” which means Patriarch’s Pond. It is a square-shaped pond surrounded by Stalin era apartments located near Mayakovsky Square. This pond depicts the period of Stalinist Russia and the surrealism that somehow still pervades Russia. It has been said that the best time to appreciate the beauty of Patriarshy Prudiy is during the morning, in the fall or spring. It’s a part of Moscow that everyone cherishes tourists and locals alike.

Hordes of people feeding the pigeons or reading the papers are usual sights at Pushkin Square. Historically known as “Strastnaya”, it was renamed to Pushkin Square in honor to Alexander Pushkin, universally known as the father of Russian literature. A statue of Alexander Pushkin was also erected in the square. Located at the very heart of Moscow, Pushkin Square is considered as one of the busiest square not only in Moscow but all over the world.

Watching a movie in a cinema that has been around for decades partaking in the history of the city of Moscow will surely leave a deep impression to any visitor. 35MM is one of Moscow’s most storied cinemas located at the corner of the Garden Ring. Although there is no surround system or stadium seat in this seasoned movie outlet, movie goers who have been used to watching films at 35MM especially those people who just love to watch the Soviet and Russian films continue to patronize the cinema for its historical value.

O2 Lounge which is located at the 12th floor of Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Moscow is a hang-out place for those who would like to feel important, rich and sexy. Locals insist on calling the place as Oh-Two Lounge instead of its real name Oxygen Lounge. It is a place for the people who belong in the higher status of society simply because only those people can afford the exorbitant price of sushi and champagne being served at the lounge by beautiful ladies. While enjoying the expensive food and drinks, visitors who care to step into the balcony are treated with the spectacular view of the city including the panoramic view of the Kremlin and the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour.

Just love watching the city lights while having a drink? Swiss Otel’s City Space Bar & Lounge located at the 34th floor of the building is a perfect place to be. It offers breathtaking scenery of the city’s skyline and skyscraper. The House of Music which is just next door features some of the highest-caliber classical music concerts so you might as well try it too to complete a wonderful evening.

If you will be traveling with your kids, you will be rewarded with hugs and kisses after spending a day at the Gorky Park. It is an amusement park named after the literary author Maxim Gorky. The park has children’s play areas, fun fairs and various amusement rides. It is also a perfect spots for picnics and camping.

Any one who is planning to book a flight, an air ticket to Moscow must not forget to pay a visit to Winzavod. Housed in this one-time factory turned into a series of galleries, is the concept store “Cara & Co” well-known to the opulent people for its Belgian and Australian designer clothing with an array of expensive household items. Sightings of the city’s rich and famous people are common things at Winzavod as this is the place to go for fashion shows and art exhibitions.

Krysha Mira is the place to go if you would like to experience the night life in the city of Moscow. It would be wise to have a company who knows a good deal about the high-end night clubs just to be sure you’ll have lots of fun not loads of trouble after having a drink.

Spending for an airfare to Moscow will also give a visitor a chance to see the tomb of the father of the Russian Revolution. Lenin’s Tomb is a mausoleum in Red Square that serves as the current resting place of Vladimir Lenin.

Monday, January 2, 2012

Top 10 Destinations for New Year Celebration

It is holiday celebrated by everyone regardless of race and religion, thus every part of the world gets into the festive mood and set exciting activities to celebrate the end of another wonderful year and welcome the New Year. While most people would like to celebrate with families and loved ones, some take advantage of the holiday vacation to travel abroad and see how other countries celebrate New Year. Here are some of the top destinations for a memorable New Year celebration.

Tokyo starts the celebration on the 29th of December until 4th of January, so if you would like to have a longer period of New Year celebration, then Tokyo is the place to be. Although most of the tourist attractions are closed for the holidays, the bustling metropolis is full of fun-filled activities for everyone. Clubs and restaurants are packed with people while the entire city is jumping with loads of fireworks, singing and dancing. Tourists will surely be thrilled to join the locals with their traditional way of welcoming New Year. It is by eating Toshikoshi Soba (New Year Noodle) and listening to Juya No Kane (The Watch-Night Bell). The noodle which is long signifies long and healthy life while the Watch-Night Bell used for countdown rings 108 times at the temples across the country to symbolize getting rid of unhappiness, poorness and the likes. Tourists also get the chance to visit the Imperial Palace which opens to the public only for New Years Greeting celebration and on the birthday of the Emperor.

Celebrate New Year ahead of other countries by going to Sydney Australia because of the time difference. Visitors and locals alike will surely be amazed of the stunning fireworks display with the accompaniment of lively music exploding over the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. Every year, more than a million people gather around Sydney Harbour to join the countdown party and watch the spectacular Midnight Fireworks. The sight of exploding fireworks can be seen at its best from one of the boats in the harbour, adding magical moments to a more romantic setting.

Traveling to London is another way to have a wonderful New Year celebration. You will surely be captivated by the sight of astonishing fireworks launched into the sky off the 135 meter London Eye, projecting a light show throughout the city. This spectacular scene can be witness from rooftops and balconies however the Westminster Bridge and the north embankment of the River Thames provide the best views. The fireworks starts exploding in the sky after Big Ben struck 12 midnight and lasts for 15 minutes. River cruise is a romantic option to watch the fireworks while ushering the New Year.

Welcome the New Year in Spanish Style by taking part in Noche Vieja in Barcelona. The lively music of salsa and flamenco soar high in the entire city setting the festive mood for as long as a week. Experience the traditional Spanish way of celebrating New Year and join the locals do the countdown by eating 12 pieces of grapes, one grape following each bell sound. This custom is believed to have originated from the period of Roman Empire which symbolizes the sweet beginnings of a New Year from the sweet flavor of the fruit. Complete the holiday by participating in Cabalgata Delos Reyes Magos (Three Kings Parade) held on the 5th of January.

If you would like to have a romantic New Year celebration, book an airfare to Paris and join the Parisians as they say Bonn Annee. Head to Champ-Elysees and secure a spot along its famous streets early as people start to gather at 9pm to have a nice view in anticipation of the stunning fireworks display exploding at the top of the Eifel Tower. Toast with the locals to a flute of Champagne while watching the spectacular fireworks for an unforgettable holiday. For a magnificent view of the Paris skyline, go to Sacre Coeur in Montmartre to have the best view as you watch the fireworks launched from different parts of the city.

Italy offers exciting activities to its visitors for a splendid New Year celebration. Tourists will sure enjoy the La Festa di San Silvestro (the holiday that is celebrated in Italy on 31st December) and the Il Capodanno (Venetian style on 1st January). Treat your palate with the several course of authentic Italian cuisine in local restaurants complimented by glass of prosecco join the masked crowds in St.Mark’s Square for a countdown, where the bell of the church’s campanile announces the beginning of the new year. Fireworks display is also a part of the celebration with parties lasting until sunrise. It is a common tradition to wear red underwear as Italians believe that it will bring good luck for the coming year.

Have a memorable celebration at the New York’s Time Square as you join hundreds of thousands people gathered around the iconic landmark of New York for a New Year celebration. Millions of people all over the world look forward to see the Waterford Crystal New Year’s Ball descends from the flagpole on the top of One Times Square building. Enjoy the experience of seeing it up close up, dress warmly and be there early to have a good spot as people starts to gather as early as 3pm. The festivities continue after midnight with spectacular fireworks launched all around the city.

Experience a liveliest grand celebration as you witness the tremendous fireworks when you purchased an airfare to Las Vegas to welcome the New Year. Have a party of your life at the Las Vegas strip and be entertained with the best entertainers. If you are into a luxurious celebration, then Las Vegas is the perfect place to be.

Orlando is an ideal place also for a New Year getaway especially for families. Kids and adults alike are guaranteed to have a wonderful time at several tourist attractions such as SeaWorld, Universal Studios and Disney World. All of these theme parks prepared something spectacular for a magical night to usher the New Year. Visitors can enjoy the live entertainment throughout the day and the fireworks display at night.

Toronto also attracts a huge crowd of tourists and locals for its traditional New Year’s Eve Bash at Nathan Phillips Square which features some of the hottest pop artist performing live. People are treated with hundreds of songs from different performers as they await the countdown in midnight. There are also activities for children such as ice-skating, games at the Scarborough Civic Centre and festivities at the theme park in downtown Toronto.

Just take your pick and have a memorable New Year celebration!