Posted on 21 October 2011. Tags: cruise, liners, top 10, Top 10 List, Top Ten, top ten list, travel, trip
Here are the top 10 cruise liners you should check out. Many of them will take you on a never before seen trip of a lifetime.
1. Princess Cruises
This is a British-American cruise line whose main office is in California, United States. Two of its ships were used on the TV show, the Love Boat. In 2013, it is expected that Royal Princess will become flagship of Princess Cruises.
2. Carnival Cruise Lines
Based in Miami, it was founded in 1972 by Ted Arison. It has the largest fleet so far in the world, including 22 vessels. Carnival Destiny is the world’s largest cruise ship in the world.
3. Disney Cruise Lines
This cruise line is fun for the whole family, especially those who have little children. An American corporation, it is owned by the Walt Disney Company. It does several expeditions to Europe, the Caribbean and South America.
4. Norwegian Cruise Line
An American corporation, Norwegian Cruise Lines controls approximately 8% of the cruise line markets. It is renowned for its Freestyle Cruising concept. There are no set times or seating measures for mealtimes.
5. Polar Cruise Lines
Polar Cruises provide expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctica. You can see polar bears and view penguins on their different trips. The cruise is small but is popular for those who want to see Antarctica for themselves.
Posted in Featured, Travel
Posted on 21 April 2011. Tags: culture, museums, sight, top 10, Top 10 List, Top Ten, top ten list, travel, trip, world
If you want to know about the history, culture or tradition of a place, museums should be your ultimate destination. You can check out the web or read books to gain some information of the past, but in a museum, you will be able to witness the ancient remains. Thus, it will help you form a better idea of the past. It is a place where you can get closer to history. Almost every state has a museum, which speaks of its past, and its glory. Though every museum will narrate some historical incidents, it does not mean every museum has same popularity. The artifacts, which are showcased in the museums, determine its popularity. If you want to enhance your knowledge of history, you need to know about the different museums that are located in different places. It is obviously not possible for each and every person to possess complete knowledge of all museums located across the globe. Yet, he can check out some selected museums. If you are interested to know about museums, you can surely check out the top ten museums in the world today
1. The Vatican Museums
Founded by Pope Julius II, the Vatican Museums are listed among the greatest museums. If you visit these museums, you will be able to witness some brilliant sculptures. Not only that, the art masterpieces of Renaissance period is also on display here.
2. Le Louvre
Located in Paris, Le Louvre or Grand Louvre is known to be the most popular art museums across the globe. This historic monument is home to around thirty five thousand historical objects that include prehistoric remains to artifacts of nineteenth century.
3. The British Museum
The British Museum, which was initially based on the works of scientist and physician, Sir Hans Sloane, now boasts of having a collection of over seven million different items. The museum, which was first opened to public in 1959, now attracts people for its huge collection of works on human culture and human history.
4. The Uffizi Gallery
Uffizi, located in Florence, is one of the most popular and among the oldest art museums of Western world. Botticelli’s work, The Birth of Venus, is the most popular attraction of this museum. Yet, you should not miss the brilliant works of Michelangelo, Da Vinci, Rembrandt, Caravaggio or Raphael, which are also displayed in this museum.
5. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Met or the Metropolitan Museum of Art, located in New York City, boasts of displaying a collection of over two million art works. For a proper tour of the museum, the authorities have classified the collection into 19 different curatorial sections. The museum is also known for hosting works of different noted artists.
Posted in Featured, Travel
Posted on 17 April 2011. Tags: africa, destinations, holiday, locations, places, sights, top 10, Top 10 List, Top Ten, top ten list, tourism, travel, trip, vacation
African continent is every travelers dream holiday destination where they can explore the splendor of the majesty of nature to the point of infinity. When one desires to “drink life to the lees” then he should unravel the mysteries in a land of varied flora and fauna coupled with the pristine indigenous culture of its inhabitants. Africa is a natural choice as one of the favorite destination from the perspective of tourism.
Tourism in Africa is one of its main revenue as well as employment generating source which if tapped properly will yield more in multiplier terms whereby many of the inherent economic imbalances owing to mal-distribution of scarce resources can be addressed to a considerable point.
Despite the inherent bottlenecks in infrastructure African continent does showcase ten holiday destinations where the inbound tourists can scout and romance be it in the lion safaris or an exotic cruise in the river Nile …. and the list is unending depending on the inquisitiveness of the holidaying people to explore the unknown world where perhaps the modern day civilization yet to set its foothold and blossom.
1. Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya)
The Masai Mara is located in south western part of Kenya bordering Tanzania. The rive Mara which flows in between the forest acts as a natural habitat for hippos and crocodiles. The forest is probably the lone and mute spectator which watches the annual migration that hordes of wildebeests and zebras undertook in this Masai Mara National Reserve from Serengeti which is fraught with dangers. Masai Mara National Reserve is proud to have domiciled a wide variety of wild life e.g. lions, leopards, giraffe, elephants, hippos etc. The best possible time to visit is between July and October. Another interesting point is to be noted that the adjoining areas of this forest are populated by the Masai tribes known for their distinct tribal culture, life style and traditions.
2. Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe/Zambia)
Victoria Falls situated in between Zambia and Zimbabwe in the southern part of African continent. Zambia’s Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls National Park are the two national parks that surround Victoria Falls. Every holidaying tourist are so enticed by the sheer beauty and charm of this fall that every year people just throng in numbers to have a glimpse of it. The best time to visit Victoria Falls is during the month of March to May. Plethora of different categories of adventure sports like bunjee jumping, white water rafting, abseiling, etc is there for those people who love adventurism to pep up their holyday package.
3. Pyramid (Egypt)
Egyptian Pyramids are one of the rarest historical monuments and widely acknowledged as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, actually symbolize the splendor of Egyptian civilization.
There are three important pyramids in Giza a place located near Cairo (the capital of Egypt), namely the Great Pyramid of Khufu, Pyramid of Kafhre and the Pyramid of Menkaura. Pyramid is a tomb built in memory of the departed soul of the Pharaohs (Egyptian kings are known as Pharaohs). Every pyramid will have a gigantic structure of Sphinx which is sculpted from a single block of stone.
4. Djenne (Mali)
Djenne is one of the oldest cities of the sub-Saharan region of Africa. It is located on an island in river Niger close to central Mali. With the efflux of time Djenne evolved into a center of Islamic learning and is still dominated the beautiful Grand Mosque at the market square bears testimony to that fact. The main attraction of Djenne is the Grand Mosque which is the biggest mud-brick structure to be constructed by the habitants of any region.
5. Cape Town (South Africa)
Cape Town is one of the fascinating places of the world that lure a good number of tourists each year. The main tourist attractions or holiday destinations are:-
a. Table Mountain which has a spectacular collection of flora and fauna quite unparallel in this region.
b. Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was put in prison for about two decades.
c. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Posted in Featured, Travel
Posted on 21 March 2011. Tags: destinations, holiday, locations, places, sights, spain, top 10, Top 10 List, Top Ten, top ten list, tourism, travel, trip, vacation
Among European nations, Spain is one of the most popular tourist destinations. It is not too expensive, it has many beautiful places you can visit and there are lovely resorts and hotels all around. The country is easily accessible from road, air and by the sea and the food is fabulous and the weather is good almost throughout the year.
1. Cordoba:
Many travellers believe that Cordoba is the most beautiful destination in Southern Spain. The city is testimony to the many different cultures which have thrived over here. It has been declared a World Heritage Site to preserve its unique ethnicity and the artistic wealth of its buildings and mosques. Small streets, whitewashed courtyards, beautiful alleys and homes are all part of the basic charm of this city.
2. Madrid:
The capital of Spain is dotted with Grand Avenues, enchanting palaces, museums and town squares which are bustling with activity. Plaza Mayor seems to be the place where everyone congregates and where the bars and restaurants never seem to close. There is a laid back feel to this lovely town and everywhere you can sense peace and joy.
3. Barcelona:
Barcelona has something for everyone. There are great museums and art galleries. The Gaudi buildings will fascinate and enchant you with their quirkiness and colour. Las Rambles never sleeps – there is always some show or performance happening here. The musical fountain at Placa dÉspanya is one of the best in the world.
4. Valencia:
Valencia is renowned for the world’s biggest food fight which takes place here in August, but it is also known for the Fallas festival which is held here in March. This quaint old city’s most popular attraction is The Silk Exchange which houses many impressive Gothic Style buildings which were a part of the commercial centre. The Cathedral is also worth a visit.
5. Seville:
Due to it’s splendid architecture and the magnificent cathedral Seville is one of Spain’s grand cities. Christopher Columbus’s tomb and the Giralda Bell tower are also other well known landmarks of this city. Located on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, it was earlier the trading hub during Roman times
Posted in Featured, Travel
Posted on 20 March 2011. Tags: canada, destinations, holiday, locations, places, sights, top 10, Top 10 List, Top Ten, top ten list, tourism, travel, trip, vacation
Canada tends to get overshadowed by its mighty next door neighbour, but it has a unique charm of it’s own and there are many places worth a visit in this very large and gorgeous country. It has some of the world’s most beautiful scenic vistas and many splendid beaches. The cities all have a charm of their own and you can spend many days travelling in this vast country.
1. Prince Edward’s Island:
A relaxed day doing nothing or a day at the beach or day walking around admiring the unusual red coloured cliffs, Prince Edward Island has all this and much more. The Prince Edward Island National Park stretches over 40 miles and has many scenic areas to wander through and enjoy
2. Vancouver:
Vancouver is the city which has something for everyone. You can enjoy the graceful beauty of this city, you can go whale-watching along the coast or you can go skiing up at Whistlers. If you are more of a city person then enjoy the excellent night-life and some of the superb eating places in Canada’s most vibrant city.
3. Niagara Falls:
No matter which side you look at them from, Niagara Falls is a sight to behold. From the Canadian side you get an excellent view from the Queen Victoria Park, and from the observation deck of the Skylon Towers. It is easily one of the most spectacular sights in the world. If you are visiting make sure you book your hotels accommodations online so you can take advantage of Niagara Falls best hotels.
4. Quebec City:
With a theatre and a museum in every corner, visiting Quebec City is like visiting France in North America. A very unique city, it is one of the last walled cities in the world. Old Quebec City has some beautiful Renaissance architecture and the mingling of various cultures is very evident in the food and language and ambience of this lovely city.
5. Banff:
A small little town, Banff is one of Canada’s most popular tourist destinations. It is so popular that often it seems very crowded. You are assured of wildlife sightings in the mountains nearby and of excellent scenic sightings also. Spend some time enjoying the natural beauty this small town has been endowed with.
Posted in Featured, Travel
Posted on 15 March 2011. Tags: destinations, holiday, locations, places, sights, top 10, Top 10 List, Top Ten, top ten list, tourism, travel, trip, United States, usa, vacation
Every traveller dreams of visiting the United States and spending some time in this vast and varied country. There is so much to see here and so many different types of experiences to be had here that it is difficult to choose just ten out of them. Here are ten of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States:
1. Niagara Falls:
None of the photographs of Niagara Falls really do justice to the grandeur of these falls. They cannot capture the thunderous sounds, nor can they give you a glimpse of the grandeur and magnificence of this place. Situated on the border between the US and Canada, over 12 million tourists visit these falls every year. If you have the time, do travel on the “Maid of the Mist” boat, to get a totally different view of the Falls.
2. Disneyland or Disneyworld:
Walt Disney’s gift to the nation, both these parks are among the most entertaining places to go to in the world. You do not need to be a child to enjoy the ambience, the joy and youthful exuberance of these amusement parks. The scary roller-coasters, the fairy tales brought to life, the array of Disney cartoon characters, and an overall atmosphere of an unbelievable fairyland are just a few of the reasons why this is a must-have of every tour itinerary.
3. New York – The Big Apple:
This amazing city is like no other in the world. The skyscrapers are a unique part of it’s identity but so is Greenwich Village on one side and Broadway on another side. Times Square is throbbing with life all through the day and night and you can just sit on one of the wrought-iron benches and watch the world go by. Visit Ground Zero to get a taste of history, albeit a recent one!!
4. Yellowstone National Park:
Located primarily in the state of Wyoming, this park is renowned for its many attractions ranging from fishing, hiking, camping, and boating. But above all the popular attractions remain the geysers and lakes and waterfalls. Old Faithful, their most popular geyser erupts at regular frequencies to spectacular heights.
5. Hollywood:
If you are a movie buff – then this is your Mecca. Situated in Los Angeles, it boasts of such attractions as the Universal Studio and the Sunset Strip and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Even though most studios have moved away from here, yet Hollywood retains its glamour and sense of movie history.
Posted in Featured, Travel
Posted on 09 March 2011. Tags: destinations, holiday, india, locations, places, sights, top 10, Top 10 List, Top Ten, top ten list, tourism, travel, trip, vacation
It is a belief among travelers that you need a lifetime to experience and enjoy India. She offers so many varied experiences and so many amazing places to see, that you never seem to have enough time to imbibe and relish all that you see around you. If you are planning to visit this beautiful country, here are ten of its best attractions.
1. Taj Mahal:
For most people, Taj Mahal seems to signify India. It is its most visible landmark, and it is the first destination on any tour of India. Just a glimpse of this monument to eternal love is enough to make you realize why it is among the wonders of the world. There have been many articles and books about it, but you have to wander around this marble and sandstone creation to get a true sense of how extraordinary it really is.
2. Hampi:
A World Heritage Site, Hampi in the state of Karnataka, was once the capital of the Vijaynagar Empire. Today the magnificent ruins stand as mute testimony to the grandeur which was once present there. Rich, vibrant history seems to still be a part of this area, and you can wander around for hours visiting the various ruins and natural delights around you.
3. Jaipur:
India is full of history and Jaipur is just teeming with it. Rajasthan has always had a colorful past and Jaipur has many places which are visible proof. The King’s palace and museum, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Amer Palace are but a few of the attractions of this place. You can even shop for some traditional jewelery and textiles to take back with you
4. Udaipur:
Another city of Rajasthan, Udaipur is also known as the “Venice of the East.” The three lakes within the town, innumerable forts and palaces and a combination of the old and modern, have made this city a part of every tourist’s schedule. Bright colorful clothes, an exuberant culture and simple yet proud race of people are the hallmarks of this region.
5. Ranthambore:
Once again, we are in the state of Rajasthan. Ranthambore is a famous tiger reserve and national park in Rajasthan. It boasts of excellent scenic vistas, great hotels and resorts and excellent opportunities to get a glimpse of the king of beasts.
Posted in Featured, Travel
Posted on 28 February 2011. Tags: best 10, best ten, holiday, places, sights, top 10, top ten list, travel, trip, vacation, visit, world
Unlike several years ago, the cost of traveling has reduced significantly and with proper planning you can see some of the most spectacular sites of the world. Discussed herein are some of the greatest locations that you can visit either alone, with a friend or family members.
1. The Pyramids and the Sphinx, Egypt
Once regarded as one of the wonders of the world, the Egyptian Pyramids and Sphinx tops the list. The three places that you can visit are the great pyramid of Khufu, The Pyramid of Kafhre and The smaller Pyramids of Menkaura. What many people do not more about is that each of the pyramids is a tomb for kings of Egypt. You only have to visit the place for you to realize the spectacular sight they are.
2. Santorini
Situated in Greece, Santorini is the second greatest place to visit on earth today. The island was created as result of volcanic eruption. What makes the island a spectacular place to visit? From the beautiful beaches to the tiny white villages, you will not miss a single thing to enjoy while at the place. Standing out are remnants of old Roman such as markets and theaters. There are shortages of activities that you can get involved, e.g. hiking amongst others.
3. Stonehenge
Stonehenge is located in the world comes third in the list boasting of stone monuments. In the vast location are several other structures from the Stone Age period. Its existence can be dated back to the 8000 BC. The site has some magical aspects to it as it gives you some sense of tranquility no matter what you are going through.
4. Italy
Regarded as the contemporary country of the Roman emperor, Italy has some of the most amazing sites you can visit. If you love terrain then there is the Alps for you as well as the flatlands of the PO river. Some of the most alluring features in Italy include the leaning tower. Other locations that you can visit while in Italy are Venice that is popular with love birds, Verona province and Pemonte well known for good wine.
5. Loch Ness
Located in Scotland, Loch Ness is one the biggest of the three lochs situated in the Great Glen. It has a hilly and wet catchments and has six major rivers that flows inside the loch
Posted in Featured, Travel
Posted on 25 February 2011. Tags: best 10 list, best ten lists, cultural, culture, destinations, holiday, places, sights, top 10, travel, trip, vacation
The lists of top 10 beaches are endless, so let’s concentrate on interesting destinations from another angle. Of course, it all depends on your personal preferences, but for cultural holidays you can’t beat these.
1. Athens, Greece
This is an amazing city with its mixture of ancient and modern. A wander around the Acropolis and seeing the Parthenon from so many places in the city has to be top of the list. The museums in this capital city are unique and if you have never been to Greece, then you really should make it the one place to visit on your bucket list.
2. Crete, Greece
The Minoan civilization is one that had the most amazing statues, architecture and running water. In the Palace at Knossos you can see the labyrinth where the Minotaur was supposed to have lived and devoured the maidens and young men sent to Crete every year. The whole island is steeped in myth and history and is just the place for people who want to combine culture with relaxing on pristine beaches.
3. Indus Valley, Pakistan
This area is unknown and unexplored by the West in comparison to Egypt for example. However the Indus Valley civilization was truly ahead of others not only in Asia but also in the world.
4. Prague
While this is not an ancient site in the same way as those mentioned above, it is well worth visiting, especially in springtime when the trees in the streets are in full blossom. There is the architecture to wonder at and the Torture Museum for those with a sense of the macabre.
5. Isfahan, Iran
This was once an important city in the Persian Empire and the artisans of the city still produce items which are exquisitely made and designed. The ornate gate at the entrance of the city is worth seeing and tourists will readily appreciate the beauty of this once splendid city.
Posted in Featured, Travel
Posted on 18 February 2011. Tags: best 10, best 10 list, caribbean, destinations, holiday, places, sights, Top 10 List, top ten list, travel, trip, vacation
With the winter setting in, your heart is longing for holidays in serene nature. You want to take a break from the monotony of your everyday life and spend some time with the close ones. Whether it is your family or friend, you can opt for Caribbean holiday destinations. Caribbean holiday tour is not all about cruise ships. You can get rejuvenated in the beautiful beaches at the Caribbean Islands. Caribbean beaches offer a complete holiday package for everyone. You can chill out in the beaches, or can enjoy some adventurous water sports with your friends. The nightlife here deserves a special mention as it is sure to spice up your mind. Caribbean beach destinations offer everything you may look for. Romance in the air of the Caribbean makes it perfect for any newly married couple. Caribbean islands are also the most appropriate place for planning a trip with friends. These islands have something for everyone, and that is why it attracts people of all ages. If you want to enjoy your winter in the Caribbean, you can surely check out the top ten Caribbean holiday destinations.
1. Bahamas
Bahamas is the best destination for someone who loves to explore islands. It boasts of seven hundred beautiful islands covered with white sand beaches. Turquoise water that surrounds the islands will surely warm up your soul. Apart from the natural beauty of this place, you can also enjoy activities like snorkeling and sailing.
2. Barbados
The beautiful beaches and coral island of Barbados will surely amaze you. The natural beauty of this place along with deep ridges, rolling hills, caves, lakes and wide range of flora makes it one of the best holiday destinations world over. To make your trip comfortable, you can find some of the best accommodation facilities here.
3. Dominican Republic
When it is a romantic trip for a young couple, Dominican Republic is the place to be. The second largest Caribbean island, which boasts of a remarkable history, earns huge revenue from tourism industry. The tourism industry of this island is making a consistent progress. Ecotourism is also a major cause of attraction here.
4. Puerto Rico
If you are planning a holiday with friends and want to participate in adventurous water sports like scuba diving or deep sea fishing, Puerto Rico is for you. The smallest island among the Greater Antille has excellent road connectivity network. It also has nine ports helping the trade and commerce in the region. Here natural beauty runs parallel with modernity, making it the perfect choice for any vacationer.
5. Jamaica
Jamaica, with a well-developed network connecting different parts of the world, can surely be listed among the top five holiday destinations of the Caribbean Island group. Though people can come by air, road or railways, road transport will be the best option. The natural beauty of the place with golf courses and clubs makes it an appropriate holiday destination.
Posted in Featured, Travel