Places you have to see before you die: Indonesia

This is one of those places that few people actually consider visiting but is actually a hidden gem. It has everything from ancient ruins, to amazing scenery, all the way to a lively modern living in Jakarta. A little-known fact about Indonesia is a fairly recent discovery that can literally rewrite history. Everyone believes that the Egyptians built the oldest pyramid 5000 years ago. But, a new discovery west of Java could change the way we look at history. The Megalithic Pyramid at Gunung Padang could actually turn out to be built around 20,000 years ago, making it the largest and oldest man-made structure ever discovered by man. The Pyramid is so large inhabitants of the area mistook it for a simple mountain. This discovery is even causing some historians like Graham Hancock to speculate that Indonesia could be home to the fabled city of Atlantis!

Places to visit in Indonesia

1. Yogyakarta

This city has everything from ancient attractions to shopping to food and culture. Explore the main street and the narrow valleys in search of silversmiths, puppet makers, street arts and food vendors, soaking in the culture, people and food of Indonesia as it has always been.

Yogyakarta serves as a historical and cultural hub for Java, Indonesia. It is the best experience for anyone to find the magnificent temples of Borobudur and Prambanan. Bathe in the remains of two great kingdoms of two different religion – Buddhism and Hinduism.

2. Mount Bromo

Do not miss out the majestic Mt Bromo at Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park. The National Park has a plethora of active and dormant volcanoes to choose from. Standing at 2329 m tall, it is one of the most iconic mountains in Indonesia. You may ride a horse or catch or rent a jeep all the way to the top and be in time to catch a sunrise. You will be rewarded with one of the most out-of-this-world views as the sun appears on the horizon over the blue misty volcanic craters. This is definitely one place you should put on your must-visit list in Indonesia.

3. Tana Toraja

A highland and the most popular destination in Southern Sulawesi, this cultural island in between mountains are simply unique. Let yourself be draped in its rich culture, traditional villages and fascinating ceremonies that would wow even those who thought they have seen it all.

4. Baliem Valley

The best place to explore the Papua area in Indonesia, you may find tribes, which are still practising rites and ceremonies from ancient times in the shadow of misty purple mountains.Trek and explore the lands of Lani, Dani and Yali tribes in this remote Papua.

October 13, 2017October 25, 2017

Places you have to see before you die: Greece

Places you have to see before you die are definitely a list on every person’s bucket list. All the travelers I know are major history buffs. But it doesn’t take an archaeology professor to appreciate the beauty and the grandeur of the ancients. From the giant structures built with the crudest forms of technology to the amazing stories behind every corner and within every crevice. And no place on earth has amassed such fame for its history as Greece.

Thousands of stories were told of its greatness and hundreds of games and movies tried to emulate the epic-ness of its history and mystery of its tales. Who on earth has not heard of the all mighty Zeus, or the 12 labors of Hercules? Greece should be on every bucket list there is, and here are some of the best places to visit when you are there.

Mycenae

Mycenae is an archaeological site near Mikines in Greece, located about 90 kilometers (56 miles) southwest of Athens, in the north-eastern Peloponnese.

In the second millennium BC, Mycenae was one of the major centers of Greek civilization, a military stronghold which dominated much of southern Greece. The period of Greek history from about 1600 BC to about 1100 BC is called Mycenaean in reference to Mycenae. At its peak in 1350 BC, the citadel and lower town had a population of 30,000 and an area of 32 hectares. Walking through Mycenae will take you back to a time when things were much simpler and much more complicated at the same time. The place has a breath of magical mystery when you walk through, it is as if the old gods of Greece still wander the halls lamenting a time that once was.

The Acropolis

The Acropolis of Athens is one of the places you have to see before you die. it’s an ancient citadel located on an extremely rocky outcrop above the city of Athens and contains the remains of several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon. The word acropolis comes from the Greek words Akron – “highest point extremity” and polis – “city”.Although there are many other acropoleis in Greece, the significance of the Acropolis of Athens is such that it is commonly known as “The Acropolis” without qualification.

While there is evidence that the hill was inhabited as far back as the fourth millennium BC, it was Pericles (c. 495 – 429 BC) in the fifth century BC who coordinated the construction of the site’s most important buildings including the Parthenon, the Propylaia, the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike.

When you think of ancient Greece this is the place you think off. Houses all over the world have pictures of this ancient city and souvenirs in the shape of its most famous building, the Parthenon.

Santorini

The most dramatic of all the Greek islands, Santorini is best known for the cliff-top towns of Fira and Oia, which lie on the west coast, overlooking the deep, blue sea-filled caldera. Made up of typical Cycladic whitewashed cubic buildings, many of which have been converted into boutique hotels with infinity pools, both Fira and Oia are considered romantic destinations, popular for weddings and honeymoons. Things to do include sunbathing and swimming at the black volcanic sand beaches on the south and east coasts and visiting the archaeological site of Akrotiri, an Ancient Minoan settlement buried below lava following the volcanic eruption that created the caldera, some 3,600 years ago. The island has an airport and is served by ferries and catamarans from Athens’ port, Piraeus.

So out of all the places you have to see before you die, Greece is definitely one of them, with its tremendous mountains, ruins and beautiful beach sceneries

October 11, 2017October 11, 2017

Places you have to see before you die: Rome

There are many places you have to see before you die since the world is a great big and magnificent place and we have so little time to see it all. Traveling the world and seeing its wonders is one of the most gratifying things any person can do throughout his/her lifetime. And no matter what type of human being you are, you will love Rome.

Rome is one of those magical places that has impacted every other nation on earth at one point or another. Whether through its through conquest, language or philosophy. Rome’s influence can still be felt all over the world.

Which is why Rome is one of the Places you have to see before you die!

The Colosseum

Visiting a place such as the Colosseum in Rome is bound to humble anyone. The gigantic structure was once home to some of the world’s most brutal tournaments and competitions that saw people get torn limb from limb by man and beast alike. Its a place where the fates of hundreds were decided to the bellowing cheers of the crowd.

The History

From the tombs of emperors to chapels dedicated to the old Gods, Rome was the epicenter of it all. From the Pantheon to the Colosseum, from Vatican city to Castle St. Angelo, from the Sistine Chappelle to the Egyptian Obelisks of Rome… History is the one thing that you can never miss in Rome. Even the very streets you walk on, are more ancient that Italy itself!

The Art

Rome is the home of the great artists like Botticelli and Micheal Angelo that fascinated the world with their art. They inspired millions and told the story of the Bible in ways that no words can express. The churches in Rome are enough of a reason to pick up your tickets right now and leave for Rome. They are the canvases upon which the masters laid their art for all to see.

The Food

When I say the words “good food” most people automatically assume I am talking about Italian food. There is a reason that great food is synonymous with Italian food. To have an original culinary experience you must go there and try it yourself. Nothing can be better.

The Wine

Italian wine. Need I say more?

Rome must be on everyone’s bucket list. Its just one of those places that praise can never do justice. It is as close to perfection as anything man has ever built!

October 6, 2017October 6, 2017

5 Great Things To Do In Dubai

Burj Khalifa

Dominating The Skies

The world’s tallest tower, standing over 838 meters tall, dominates the Dubai skyline, but the true majesty of the building is best appreciated up close or, more accurately from the top. On a clear day, the view from the observation deck on level 124 is simply mesmerizing. And if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, check out the view from the luxurious “At The Top Sky Lounge” on the 148th floor. You can always choose to stay for a meal in the clouds, at the “At.mosphere” restaurant on the 122nd floor.

The Dubai Mall

A shopper’s paradise

One of Dubai’s best spots. Having over 1200 shops and more than 150 restaurants the place is more than just a simple shopping mall. It is home to a huge indoor theme park, an ice rink, a massive indoor waterfall and serves as home to the famous “Dubai Fountain” and the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.

Challenge: Can you see it all in a day?

The Dubai Fountain

The Dancing Waters of Dubai

Vegas got nothing on this massive water show in Dubai. Located at the base of Burj Khalifa, and right outside the world famous Dubai Mall, its bound to stop you dead in your track. With massive water jets reaching over 150 meters high, mixed with unique choreography and lighting, the fountain is bound to earn its place in your book of memories. The fountain has two shows during the daytime, and one show every half an hour at sundown!

Palm Jumeirah

A palm-shaped island

This is probably what you think off when someone mentions Dubai. A massive Palm shaped island in the middle of the ocean. One of the reasons the expression only in Dubai exists. Palm Jumeirah is a feat of human ingenuity and has become a defining trademark for Dubai. When you are there you should definitely visit the iconic Atlantis, The Palm. The island is littered with high-end hotels and restaurants that only Dubai can provide. You should definitely check it out!

Dubai Creek

Ancient trade routes

Dubai may be famous for the glitz and glamour of its sky-high towers, but the real heart of the city is, and always will be, the Creek. The saltwater estuary is the original site where the Bani Yas tribe settled, and its waters were vital for what used to be Dubai’s main forms of economy: pearl diving and fishing. Today, the area is awash with the history of the emirate, as it’s home to the Dubai Museum as well as the labyrinthine alleyways of the gold, spice and textile souks. While at the Creek, a ride across the water on a traditional abra is a must, and at an unbelievable AED1 per ticket, it’s easily the best value tourist attraction in the city.

October 1, 2017October 11, 2017

Top 20 go to countries in the world

There are 195 countries around the globe that a person can travel to and visit, some of them are perfect summer destinations where you can lay by the beach and relax under the sun, while others are perfect for sitting in a warm cabin and enjoying the beautiful countryside full of mountains. Not to forget the various cultures and historical monument scattered on every continent.

But here are top 20 go to countries that were voted best to visit by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler:

20. Morocco: The home of Casablanca is a treasure trove of spice markets, surrealist landscapes, jaw-dropping mosques, and world-class surfing. The cuisine is like none other, with a mix of Arab, African, Persian, and French flavors.

19. Canada: From wilderness camping on Vancouver Island to a stay at North America’s oldest Ritz-Carlton in Montreal, Canada offers travelers all types of experiences. A ride down the toboggan lanes in Quebec City is a must in the wintertime.

18. Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are a few of the hot spots to explore in Japan. Home to more than 2,000 breathtaking Buddhist temples and shrines, Kyoto was voted the No. 1 city in the world by Travel and Leisure magazine this year.

17. Ireland: From castle hotels to boisterous pubs and the greenest countrysides your eyes will ever behold, Ireland is a feast for the senses. CNT recommends renting a car and taking the world’s longest road trip on the Wild Atlantic Way.

16. Portugal: Small but mighty, Spain’s neighbor has a distinct culture, cuisine, and language. In the summer, head to the western village of Comporta, Portugal’s answer to Ibiza. And no trip to the country is complete without a glass of port wine from the Douro Valley.

15. Mexico: Look out Spain and Italy, Mexico’s culinary scene has entered the ring. The country logged three restaurants — Pujol, Quintonil, and Biko — on the 2015 World’s 50 Best Restaurants List. All three are in Mexico City.

14. Netherlands: Forget why 20-somethings flock here. Go to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and other crannies of this gorgeous country for the incredible museums, unparalleled coffee, and stunning countryside. We suggest splurging on a stay at the newly built Waldorf Astoria — a collection of six townhouses with a Guerlain Spa — on Amsterdam’s oldest and most storied canal.

13. Sri Lanka: If you’re lost, this is where you can find yourself. Fill a backpack and take the island’s “charmingly decrepit” railway to wherever. Buy fritters and curry dishes from train hawkers, look out onto seemingly endless tea fields, and hop off to see sites like the Golden Temple of Dambulla and the famous markets of Pettah.

12. Vietnam: Wandering chef Anthony Bourdain says going to Vietnam changed his life. “It just seemed like another planet; a delicious one that sort of sucked me in and never let go,” he told CNT. We’d be happy just to sip Vietnamese coffee and eat pho all day, but the adventurous can descend into the world’s largest cave, Hang Son Doong, in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.

11. South Africa: Cape Town ranked No. 6 on CNT’s Readers’ Choice Awards for the world’s best cities. With the glorious Table Mountain and one of South African hotelier Sol Kerzner’s luxurious One&Only resorts, it’s certainly a draw, but the vineyards of Franschhoek and the safari lodges of Kruger National Park also beckon.

10. India: From the sandy beaches of Goa to the ancient Buddhist caves of Ajanta, the sites to see in the second-most populous country in the world are endless. Far from the crowds of Mumbai, northern Kashmir is often described as India’s Switzerland, where the pace is slower and the skiing is quite good.

9. Turkey: Go to Turkey to see the gorgeous mosques, majestic castles, and natural wonders such as Pamukkale (aka “Cotton Castle”), a plethora of white travertines filled with mineral-rich water. Also, go for the newly built Soho House in Istanbul’s romantic Beyoğlu district.

8. Thailand: Whether you choose to eat your way through Bangkok, island hop around Phuket, or board the glamorous Eastern & Oriental Express, Thailand will seduce you with its vibrant culture, exotic cuisine, and utopian resorts. Recently there’s been a rise in holistic health and wellness resorts, where you can detox and refuel with yoga and Ayurvedic spa treatments.

7. New Zealand: This is a destination for adventurers. You can rough it in a cabin with no electricity on the beautiful Great Barrier Island, submerge yourself in the healing waters of Maruia Springs, hike through volcanic terrains in Tongariro National Park, or enjoy world-class fly fishing in Queenstown, where you can also get what many say is the best burger on the planet at Fergberger.

6. Australia: Melbourne, Australia, was named the most livable city in the world by the Economist Intelligence Unit this year, so naturally, it’s a great place to travel as well. CNT recently explored Melbourne’s Mornington Peninsula — Australia’s answer to the Hamptons — with vineyards, beaches, and a thriving culinary scene. The peninsula is about a three-and-a-half hour drive from one of Australia’s most beautiful natural wonders, The Twelve Apostles.

5. Greece: CNT named Athens, Greece, one of its cities to watch in 2015. In the midst of a financial disaster, a spate of new museums, hip hotels and shops, and pop-ups are spurring a cultural renaissance in the capital city. For travelers, the turquoise waters and salty air of Mykonos will always be a draw.

4. Spain: Since Ferran Adria’s elBulli restaurant rose in Catalonia, Spain has been the world’s undisputed epicenter of cutting-edge cuisine. Planning an entire vacation around the fine-dining restaurants you want to splurge at and the most famed tapas spots is a good idea. A Fodor’s forum suggests visiting Spain in April for the best weather. You can also catch Barcelona’s food-filled April Fair then.

3. USA: CNT readers are highly drawn to America’s gleaming metropolises, family-friendly theme parks, and beautiful nature. New York’s Catskill Mountains, Georgia’s Golden Isles, and an investment banker’s hotel passion project in Montana, The Ranch at Rock Creek, are a few of the destinations that the magazine’s editors recommend.

2. France: The country that gave us cabaret, Champagne, and hundreds of cheese varietals is one of the most romantic places on earth. In the springtime — an excellent season for a trip to France — the editors of CNT tout Morzine for some of the most beautiful hiking you can imagine. Under two hours by car from Morzine, Lake Annecy is an enchanting detour.

1. Italy: Who can resist the call of pasta and beautiful people? Not many, according to the CNT readers, who’ve voted for Italy as the world’s best country to travel for five straight years. Italy is all about leisure — sip wine for hours in Venice’s Piazza San Marco, make friends with a hammock on a villa in Tuscany, or sunbathe on the cliffs of Riomaggiore.

The following information was provided

by: http://www.businessinsider.com/the-20-best-countries-to-visit-according-to-travelers-2015-10/#5-greece-cnt-named-athens-greece-one-of-its-cities-to-watch-in-2015-in-the-midst-of-a-financial-disaster-a-spate-of-new-museums-hip-hotels-and-shops-and-pop-ups-are-spurring-a-cultural-renaissance-in-the-capital-city-for-travelers-the-turquoise-waters-and-salty-air-of-mykonos-will-always-be-a-draw-16

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