Friday, June 28, 2013

Windhoek, Namibia, Africa


By Jothea Hite

Namibia is a huge country with a small population due to its desert nature. With a population of 2,1 million according to the 2011 census, you will understand why the size of the capital city of the Republic of Namibia is what it is. With only 322 000 inhabitants counted in the same census, it seems like a village compared to capital cities such as London or Paris. Yet, we are a very cosmopolitan city with cultures from all across the globe. I have read reports by travellers that recommend tourists to skip Windhoek and that it is a boring city, but having lived here for nearly 25 years, I beg to differ.
As a melting pot of African, European and also Eastern cultures, I would say that Namibia’s true identity does not lie in its cities and towns, but rather in its natural beauty that spans millions of years.
Windhoek is not hundreds of years old like many European cities. It is only a 174 years old – and that’s taking it back to the settlement by Jonker Afrikaner, an Orlam captain, as a result of a spring that could provide water for his livestock. The German army founded the city again in 1890 after years of hostilities and strife. This brings the age of the city to only 124 years in European terms.
The German influence in architecture is still very evident in the older parts of town. A couple of well-preserved German shop-fronts still grace the main street, Independence Avenue, which in German times was know as Kaiser Strasse.
History is not only German, however. In front of the Tintinpalast – seat of Government situated East of Independence Avenue, you will find Parliament Gardens and a statue of Hosea Kutako, one of the many heroes of the Namibian independence struggle.
Being located at such a high altitude affords Windhoek the most moderate climate in the entire Namibia. Our winter days are basked in sun, with night-time temperatures often dipping to under zero, while our summers can be very hot and dry. Despite our location in a summer rainfall area, Windhoek is termed as semi-arid. In extreme years, we’ve had
virtually no rain, while we can usually expect an average of 300mm per year.
So, what we cherish most is our blue skies! We get depressed when it is dusty and dry and grey, because we are so used to crisp, clear blue skies. Then the mountains surrounding Windhoek stand guard around the Windhoek valley and you cannot but feel at home.
Home is meat in Namibia and you should not leave Windhoek without having a taste of the best beef or game sirloin or fillet you could find. Local delicacies called biltong and and droëwors (dried beef or game meat and dried sausage) are eaten by all; true to our Namibian meat-eating tradition, which is augmented by a good dose of German sausages,  cold meats and of course, beer made in the German tradition.
Windhoek does not have much of a night-life, but you will find many clubs and bars if that is what you want to do in Africa. If you prefer to rather watch the African sunset, make sure that you are on top of the roof of a well-known hotel or at one of the old castles in town. During the day, visit one of the many coffee-shops or restaurants in the town centre to feel the true buzz of life in Windhoek.
Serious party-time is very linked to the German Wika-festival and the Oktoberfest, but also the ǀAiǁGams Festival that is held by the City of Windhoek.
What I love most about Windhoek is the fact that you can drive for five or ten minutes and be out in the country. Windhoek is relaxed and laid-back and that is probably why I would not want to live anywhere else in the world.  

Sunday, June 23, 2013

Barcelona, Spain, Europe

So, are you thinking about visiting Barcelona?


By Natalia Ulla Garrido

As someone who currently lives abroad, I find it very encouraging that, whenever I mention to someone that I’m from Barcelona, I get a big smile in return.  Most of the people I have encountered while travelling or living abroad have been to Barcelona, even very young people. It’s a popular destination for those people eager to earn more about Spanish and Catalan culture.

While Spain was for a long time regarded as a tourist destination for British or German families looking to spend their holidays in a warmer climate, drinking beer and disregarding the local culture, things are slowly changing. Barcelona is now considered as one of the most cosmopolitan, innovative, bohemian and cultural cities in the world.

When you think about it, Barcelona has it all: First of all it’s nestled between to mountains, both belonging to the city and easily accessible by public transport.

One of the mountains (Montjuic) is a huge “park”, home to many famous stadiums, swimming pools, actual parks (visit “La font del Gat”, a cute little isolated park decorated with little fountains and gardens), viewpoints, a castle, an outdoor cinema at the base of the castle, tennis courts, horse riding, a whole town-museum (el Poble Español) and even a free indoor climbing tunnel.
The other mountain (Tibidabo), has also a castle and an amusement park, among other things.

But even the urban city itself is full of contrasts. From grand avenues lined-up by breathtaking historical buildings (like the Diagonal), quaint little cobblestoned streets in the old quarter (El casco antiguo), to the modern new “city” built for the Olympic athletes in 1992, along the beaches of Barcelona, which is now a residential and recreation area, full of gardens, sculptures and other street art, palm trees along a beautiful wooden-floored promenade (in some areas it even has outdoor music playing), shopping, restaurants and bars.

When you visit Barcelona, ask yourself

Monday, June 17, 2013

Rome, Italy, Europe

Rome, Italy


Roma caput mundi (Rome, the head of the world)

by Vincenzo Mele

History

Rome was found in 753 B.C. , where the river Tiber flows into the Tyrrhenian Sea. This made it  a very important communication node. It is also shielded from the Apennines mountains, making the climate very good.
These facts convinced the first shepherds and traders to establish himself in Rome. Then, thanks to an impressive military force, Rome expands its territory, from Italy to Europe, Africa and Asia (America had not been discovered yet !).

Since 1870  Rome is the capital of Italy, having a population of about 3 millions.


Be aware.
 When you arrive in Rome, landing at Fiumicino airport (or Ciampino airport) ,  a lot of people will ask you to drive you to the city center. TAKE ONLY A REGULAR TAXI  (white car) . The cost of transportation from airport IS FIXED and is written on the door of the car.

What to see
Rome has too many thinks to see. It's impossible to see all, also if you stay long time. So it's better to plan where to go, discarding other thinks to be saw next time.

Following list show  neighboring sites. It  will help you to save time:

1 Colosseo  (Colosseum) ,  Foro Romano , Chiesa di San Pietro in Vincoli (this Church is not the more known San Peter Basilica (= big Church) in Vatican city)

2 San Peter Basilica , Cappella Sistina and Musei Vaticani

3 Piazza Navona

4 Trastevere, where you can eat well and cheaply .

Rome has a lot of churches. Inside each you can find almost  always pictures, statues , etc of very important artists.

Parks
Most important Rome parks are:

1 Villa Borghese, near to famous via Veneto. Inside there is the Museo Borghese, with the statue of Paolina Borghere (sister of Napoleon)

2 Villa Ada

3 Villa Doria- Panphili


Transportation
One of the bad aspects of Rome are public transportation

Charlotte, North Carolina, USA

Charlotte – the Queen City


By Anne LaFriniere

Welcome to Charlotte, the Queen City! Charlotte is called the Queen City (and you will see crowns on signs all over the city) in honor of Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III of England. The early colonists thought it might bring them favor from the King.
Charlotte is the biggest little city you will ever visit.  It has all the conveniences, culture and attractions of a big city yet still has maintained its small, hometown feel.  It has southern charm and hospitality yet is very progressive in its style, its economics and its development.  For many years, it was the second largest banking center outside of New York City!  Public transportation has been increasing over the past few years with the addition of a light rail and “green business” is more and more common. City leaders are being elected for higher state positions and even some have been appointed to the White House team in Washington D.C.  You will note that Charlotte does not have a downtown; they have an Uptown thus called because the city center is on a hill.
There is a saying that you only visit Charlotte once because once you have, you move here! There is so much to do, see and experience within Charlotte and a very short drive outside of Charlotte.  Here are the highlights.
Food – Charlotte wooed Johnson & Wales College of Culinary Arts away from Charleston and it has put this city on the map.  It is now known for the very wide range of

Friday, June 14, 2013

Panama City, Panama, Central America

Panama City, Panama


 By Ricaurte Xavier Mendoza

Panama City is now one of the most exiting cities in America to visit and enjoy!     During the last several years, Panama City has turned into a first world city with a very interesting mix of traditions and modernity, surrounded by all sorts of activities and places to visit.
What to visit:

Panama Canal
A trip to the Panama Canal is a once in a lifetime adventure and experience. The Panama Canal is one of the most popular tourist attractions in world, with tours offered by cruise boat, allowing individuals to see the canal up close in daily operations. Visitors will be able to sail through the canal, admiring the beautiful scenery, experiencing history at its finest. You will learn the history of the canal, while experiencing the sensation of sailing from one ocean to another.

Casco Viejo
Casco Viejo is a cultural gem of Panama City. This historical district was established around 1673 by the Spanish colonists, the church, and other settlers. This gem was on one of the richest and most densely populated neighborhoods of the Americas. Today, this energy-filled corner has been restored; the buildings that had once served as home have been transformed into museums, gourmet restaurants, shops, and upscale residencies.

Amador Causeway
The Amador Causeway is an architectural must see for all. This unique landmark is both a roadway and a walkway that connects Panama’s mainland to the four small islands; Naso, Culebra, Perico, and Flamenco. Crossing the roadways you will see a magnificent view of Panama City’s skyline, bridge of Americas and the Panama Bay.
Travelers can enjoy a wide range of attractions such as a gaze at the cruise port, the marina, a day at the Fuerte Amador Shopping, dining at the restaurant plaza, and a day at the Figali Convention centers.  The Marine Exhibition Center of the Smithsonian Research Institution also attracts several visitors as it allows an up close and personal look at the creative nature of the Panama Country.

Taboga Island.
The Taboga Island, thought surrounded by