Friday, May 31, 2013

Luxor, Egypt

Come To Visit Our Awesome City Luxor , Egypt, Africa

By Jojo Sam

Come to visit my lovely city, if you are one of those people who admire of visiting famous antiquities, if you passionate to smell of the ancient days, Sure you will think to come to visit Egypt. In Egypt you will find awesome historical places, that historical places starts from Giza pyramids and extend to Valley of the Kings at Luxor. Here at Luxor, you will enjoy with the wonderful worm weather, and a wonderful hospitality of the kind Egyptian people.
Luxor is the most ancient city in Egypt. It lies in Upper Egypt at the north of Aswan. In the past, Luxor was the capital of ancient Egypt. It was called Teba. It was built at the age of the pharaoh Mina. Now it’s called Luxor.
Do you know why Egyptian called it Luxor instead of Teba! I’ll tell you, when the Arabs came to Egypt to conquer it in 640 AC Arabs found a huge number of pharaonic structures and palaces, which make them to name it Luxor ( City of palaces) Because It has a lot of ancient palaces which called Luxor in the Arabic language.

Luxor has the third of the world’s monuments nearly. It has a lot of ancient tombs and temples, such as The Karnak Temple, The Luxor Temple, The Valley of the Kings, The Queen Hatshepsut Temple and The colossi of Memnon.
When you come here, be sure you will enjoy with every moment of your tour. You can enjoy Kebash Road or may you love to sail in a Nail tour in the River Nail. All amazing thoughts you can find it in my city (Luxor) especially if you come at winter, here the weather is worm at winter in a magical way that make all foreigners prefer to vist Luxor in winter.

When you are here, I advise you to take care of taxi drivers, they are so greedy about money. So that you are advised to move with your tour guide in a stated plan and avoid moving separately. In common all Egyptians ( My country people) are so kind welcoming to all coming people as tourism is one of the most important source of national income for all Egypt.
When you decide to come here don’t forget to plan to visit all Christian historical ‎places in Egypt especially the Old ministry at Asuit Mountains where Jesus Christ ‎had visited it during the journey of The Holy Family.‎

Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta, Indonesia,  Southeast Asia

By. Tyara P Hansel

The City
As a capital city of Indonesia, Jakarta sure has a lot of interesting to offer. Whether you’re an
adventurous traveler, party traveler or just looking for a new destination or your next family holiday, you will always find anything you want in the city. Jakarta is divided into five areas; Central Jakarta, West Jakarta, South Jakarta, East Jakarta and North Jakarta. Each area has its own uniqueness. Central Jakarta is popular for its business district, but it has also abundant of historical sites and museums. South Jakarta is possibly the hippest area of the city with numerous shopping centers (Pondok Indah Mall, Plaza Senayan, Senayan City, Lippo Mall Kemang and Lippo Mall Kemang –just to name a few), restaurants, bars and interesting hang out spots.

If you love some outdoor or aquatic activities, North Jakarta is the best place. From Ancol, you can take a boat ride to some beautiful islands of the city. Yes, you read that right. Jakarta has several islands that worth the visit, it’s called Kepulauan Seribu (Thousand Island), with many islands to discover including Tiger Island, Pramuka Island, Pari Island, and Tidung Island. If you’re looking for a nice object to shoot, spend a day at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah –a miniature of the archipelago- in East Jakarta, or if you want to shop for more, take a cab to two humongous malls in West Jakarta: Mall Taman Anggrek and Central Park, I’m pretty sure you won’t leave the mall empty handed.

The Food
If food is your main concern, then you can relax. The city has a wide range of food available for every pocket –from modest street hawkers to an exclusive fine dining restaurant, so you’ll be good. If you don’t have sensitive stomach, you can try some of the low budget streetside food stalls, as they offer local dishes in a very affordable price. Soto Betawi (coconut milk soup with gravy, mixed beef, lungs, liver, tripe and celery, usually served with rice and emping crackers), Kerak Telor (traditional spicy omelette dish made from glutinous rice cooked with egg and served with fried shredded coconut, fried shallots and dried shrimp topping), Nasi Gila (sausage, chicken, meatballs and lamb ladled liberally
over white rice and garnised with a handful of crackers) and Gado Gado (traditional salad consist of vegetables, tofu, potatoes and peanut sauce dressing) are a must-try. Or else, you can just point at any international restaurant in the city –from Chinese, German, Korean, Thai, American, French, Middle Eastern, Indian to Japanese food, Jakarta got it cover. One thing though, never drink the tap water anywhere.

The People
People are mixed, some are nice and friendly, and

Ottawa, Canada

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, North America

By Erica Roberts

Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, and is located in the province of Ontario. At Toronto's Boring Awards, which took place near the end of May, it was voted Canada's most boring city, but anyone who lives here knows that's a joke! Ottawa has a lot to offer both tourists and locals. If you're paying the city a visit, there are many tourist attractions you definitely won't want to miss. Luckily, most of these are located downtown. Most importantly, you won't want to leave without seeing the Parliament Buildings, the political hub of Canada, where the Canadian Senate and House of Commons meet to make all of the important decisions about how the country is run. You can also view the Prime Minister Stephen Harper's house, located a few minutes away from the Parliament Buildings by car, and you will be able to pay a visit to the Supreme Court of Canada, Canada's highest appeal court, also located downtown. Both the Supreme Court and the Parliament Buildings offer guided tours. While you're at the Parliament buildings, make sure you visit the statues of Canadian
historical figures outdoors—it's fun to climb one and have your picture taken!

You won't want to leave Ottawa without also visiting the downtown's Byward Market. The 'Market' might be best known for its happening bars, pubs, and nightclubs for party animals of all ages, but it also has a great selection of restaurants, specialty food shops, and outdoor stands selling things like unique jewellery and woven products. A great restaurant to dine at in the Byward Market is Tucker's Marketplace, which offers an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet every weekday. If you're lucky enough to be having a birthday while you're in Ottawa, you'll be able to help yourself to the buffet for free. If you do end up hitting the nightclubs, young people will especially enjoy the East-coast inspired Pier 21, Pub 101, and the Liquor Store Party Bar. Older folk may prefer the ambience of three stellar Irish pubs: Patty Boland's, the Aulde Dubliner Pourhouse (known by locals as just the 'Pourhouse'), and the Heart & Crown.

If you're the artsy type, make sure you pay a visit to the National Gallery of Canada, which is downtown and features amazing displays of Canadian art, including authentic Inuit art. The National Arts Centre is also located in the heart of Ottawa's downtown, and hosts many concerts and

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Kidapawan City, Philippines

Explore Kidapawan City, Philippines, Southeast Asia
By:  Virgie Cadiente.

About The City:
Kidapawan City is located in the island of Mindanao, Province of Cotabato, Philippines. It is nestled at
the foot of the splendid Mt. Apo, the highest  mountain in the country.  The city’s name originated from Manobo (the city’s early settlers) words “Tida” which denotes spring and “Pawan” which denotes highland.  It is originally called Tidapawan  but the arrival of Christian settlers from different parts of the country has caused the transformation of the word Tidapawan to Kidapawan.  The city is also a home for several kinds of exotic fruits like durian, rambutan, mangosteen, lanzones, marang and banana,  thus obtaining the title  “The City of Fruits and Highland Springs”.  Fortunately, the city is deified with a propitious climate being positioned outside the typhoon belt.  Having a wet and dry season, December and January are the coolest months with April and May as the sultriest months are.

How To Reach Kidapawan
Kidapawan  City can be reached by air, sea and land transportation.  For air transportation, you can visit the following airlines:
1. Cebu Pacific Airlines
2. PAL Express
3. Philippine Airlines
Route (international tourists): Country of Origin to Manila
            Manila to Davao City
            Davao City to Kidapawan City – by bus, van or taxi only ( 2 hours)
If you want to take a bus, go to  Ecoland Terminal but if you want to

Manchester, England

Manchester, England, Europe
By Simon Parry

Not just home to the greatest football team in the world, Manchester is also often revered as the UK’s
unofficial second city—but shh! Don’t tell Liverpool. It’s got everything: history, music, rain, an eclectic nightlife, rain, rich architecture, food, high street shopping—oh, did I mention rain?
Manchester certainly lives up to the nickname, ‘The Rainy City’, but if you can brave the drizzle and live to tell the tale, you’re sure to have a story worth telling. This is especially so if you decide to take a tour of the city’s landmark buildings.  Step back in time to the Victorian period with neogothic cathedrals, town halls, railways and pubs, or jump further back to the industrial revolution with old cotton mills, canals, and museums.

Once you've had your cultural fix of history, museums, and art galleries— of which there are many—it’s time for a spot of retail therapy.  From the high street shopping of the Arndale and Market Street, to the back street shopping of Afflecks and the Northern Quarter, Manchester really does cater for all. There are just as many vintage record shops, clothing boutiques, tattoo parlours, and independent comic book museums  as there are H&M’s and Topshop’s. And if you’ve a flare for the alternative side to fashion, look no further than Afflecks Palace, home to eclecticism.
Shopping can, of course, work up an appetite, which is why Manchester pays homage to all the culinary styles of the world with over three hundred restaurants. Yes, you heard right— three hundred! That includes some of the most reputable restaurants in the UK, and the amazing Red Hot World Buffet.

There are also a collection of hidden gems scattered about, just waiting to be discovered in the backstreets of the Northern Quarter, including several superbly British tea houses.
They say on the sixth day God created MANchester.  Once the night comes alive, that could be true. When it’s time to party, no city in the UK does it better than Manchester. Dance music, pop music, R&B, metal—you name it, Manchester’s music scene has it. This great city has also been known to produce some of the world’s most influential music in recent times, from the likes of The Stone Roses, The Smiths, and Oasis, and who knows, you just might catch the next big thing in one of The Rainy City’s many clubs and bars.
So get the umbrella at the ready and take a trip into Manchester City Centre, where both the people and the places are larger than life and everybody is up for having a good time.

Europe

Santa Cruz, California, USA

Santa Cruz, California, USA, North America

By Sarah Bargetto 

Having brought you amazing waves and surfing expenditures, Chris Rene from the X-Factor, the movie Chasing Mavericks, the legendary Santa Cruz logo, James Durbin, a talented American Idol participant, and one of California’s best schools, UCSC– Santa Cruz, California is a paradigm of perfection, or as close to perfection as one can get!
Santa Cruz, California, home to friendly beach bums and thrill-seeking wave riders, is located in Northern California in the United States with a population of approximately 60,000 local residents. Santa Cruz’s beautiful beaches and “gnarly” waves prove it to be an ideal summer vacation to young families and a lax getaway for couples of any ages. To the locals, Santa Cruz is a sacred place of beauty, a mix of lush forests and eternal coastlines.

Geography
Santa Cruz is positioned on the north side of the Monterey Bay, which provides coasts for many surrounding towns and mountains filled with towering redwoods make up the backside of the city. Within Santa Cruz County, there are a multitude of small beach towns and residential areas and neighborhoods such as Capitola, Scott’s Valley, East and West Cliff, and Aptos that encompass Santa Cruz City itself. There are a few main streets that run through the county, allowing for easier access and navigation including River St., Mission St., Soquel Dr., and 41st Ave. Although these streets may be the busiest, they virtually take you anywhere from one town to the next.

All About the Locals
In Santa Cruz, the term “locals” is taken with pride. Most Santa Cruzians feel a sense of ownership over the town, and are sometimes protective. But this does not stop their great hospitality and interest in sharing the great place they call home.
Most people believe that the locals are sun-kissed beach-goers and skilled surfers, when they are much more than that. They are an ethnically diverse population, they are stewards of the earth, and they are a family-driven community. The most important matter to the local citizens is the quality of the beaches. There are many organizations, which strive for cleaner beaches, and local high schools contribute and collaborate as well. The main concern most locals have is the disrespect that travelers and tourists have, leaving trash and tarnishing the marine and terrestrial environment.


The locals also partake in activities such as any other city or

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Taichung, Taiwan

Taichung, Taiwan, Asia

By Lianne Choo

Taichung: Taiwan’s Third Largest Jewel
Explore a world of food, culture and nature.

Taichung is the third largest city in Taiwan and is a jewel that many tend to overlook. Stay off the
beaten path and shrug aside the more obvious travel choice of Taipei and head further south to discover Taichung’s endless array of food, culture and nature. With a mix of luxury condos and colonial buildings, Taichung is a brilliant collision of old and new.

One of the things that Taichung is most famous for is bubble tea. Bubble tea is said to have been created at the original Chun Shui Tang teahouse so whether you are a fan of bubble tea, you have to make the effort to head over just so you can say that you had the ‘world’s original’ bubble tea.

Something else to experience in Taichung would have to be a night market. Head to the Feng Chia night market, the largest of its kind in Taichung. Stretching over several blocks, you are in for a real sensory treat. Must-try foods are Taiwan’s famous popcorn fried chicken, chicken chop, fried squid, stuffed chicken wings, stinky tofu, and grilled sausages.

One of Taichung’s main attractions is its maze of streets. Comprising of endless restaurants, auto garages, bars, and boutiques, Taichung offers visitors a vibe that closely resembles that of Japan. That being said, Taichung residents have a love for karaoke and these singing parlors are abundant in the city. Taichung is not well known for its nightlife and many say that clubbing is almost non-existent. However, all Taichung residents need to have a good time is a microphone and some cheesy music and they are all set to enjoy the rest of the night.

When navigating the narrow streets, beware of impatient scooters as they are known for paying zero
attention to their surroundings. The rule of thumb is to look out for them because they certainly are not going to look out for you. Collisions are common and are usually settled quickly without the interference of the police. Scooters are the main form of transportation for most Taichung residents although many others opt to drive or take the bus, which is an extremely efficient form of public transport. Visitors are advised to rent a car as this will give them the chance to explore Taichung’s myriad of natural wonders located outside the city centre.

Dakeng Scenic Area is the closest form of nature available to the Taichung urbanites.  Located 30 minutes away, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking and camping. Although it can get rather busy over the weekends, it remains pristine and perfectly maintained.

At the end of the day, one of the best things about Taichung is its people. Even though many do not speak English, they will try their level best to help tourists out, making Taichung one of the nicest and friendliest places in the world to visit.

asia

Cairo, Egypt

Cairo, القاهرة" - Al Qahira” Egypt

By Reham Rassmy


Cairo is the capital of Egypt, and one of the most beautiful cities in the Middle East which is famous for its unique history.

"Jewel of the East", as it is sometimes called, had been established by the Fatimid Commander “Jawhar the Sicilian” on year 969 AD.
When you visit Cairo, especially the Islamic places such as Khan El-Khalili, Al-Hussien, Al-Azhar, you feel like you are living in the old centuries and by the way, our famous late author (Nobel Prize Winner in Literature) Mr. Naguib Mahfouz, used to write his novels while enjoying his stay at Al-Fishawy coffee in Khan El Khalili.
Cairo and Giza are Known as Great Cairo, so when you are in Cairo you can visit the Egyptian Museum (known also as Cairo Museum), Old Islamic & Coptic Cairo, Khan-Khalili, a Nile Cruise at the sunset time, Pharaonic  Village, Azhar park, Whirling Dervishes shows in Saqiet El-Sawy, Cairo Opera House, many great Malls such as Citystars mall in Heliopolis, Tahrir Square off course where the Egyptian Revolution against the former president has occurred in 2011, Media production city in 6th of October, and much more..... are some of the places that are worth a visit when you are in Cairo, to name a few

In Giza you can visit: Great Pyramids, Saqqara, Memphis and Dahshur if you have time , Don’t miss going there, it is worth visiting by all means.

A lot of Egyptians enjoy their weekends and vacations in the open air, they love having small boats at the Nile (felouka), enjoying traditional culture in Saqiet El Sawy, and many of them like going to malls where the most and various brands are exists.

Cairo has an extensive road network, rail system, subway system and maritime services.
Road transport is facilitated by personal vehicles, taxi cabs, privately owned public buses and Cairo microbuses. Cairo, specifically Ramses Square, is the centre of almost the entire Egyptian transportation network.
The best time to enjoy Cairo in a good weather is during October to April, so If you are travelling in Summer so Loose and light cotton clothing is absolutely essential. For women it is strongly advisable to dress conservative specially when visiting churches and mosques women should not wear shorts, mini-skirts or tank tops.
Bring shirts that cover your shoulders or T-shirts are fine, cover your legs with long, cotton skirts or jeans. If you follow this formula, it indicates a respect for the culture.

When you are hungry, you have various of traditional and tasty Egyptian fast food that is being served everywhere you go, such as Koshary (rice, lentils, caramelized onions, garlic and chickpeas, pasta and tomato sauce), fava beans (ful medames) and falafel, these are the most famous traditional food that you will find wherever you go. In addition to global restaurant companies, which offer their services everywhere.

Egyptian people are very friendly, helpful, and have a great sense of humor. Most of those people have graduated from universities and many of them speak good English and can communicate with you well if you need some help.
 If you want to visit a country that mixes traditions and modernity, I recommend for you my beloved Egypt, I am sure that this visit will remain in you mind for a very long time.
At the end, we have a famous saying that whoever drinks from the Nile he must get back again.

Paris, France

Paris, France, Europe

By Murielle Lucie Clément

One of the most beautiful cities in the world, Paris is often called “The City of the lights”. It is very true; that with her many streets lights and lighted shops windows till the middle of the night, Paris looks
gorgeous. During the day, one can visit numerous places (Place de Ternes, place Saint Michel, Montmartre, Jardins du Luxembourg, Boulevard Saint Michel, Saint Germain) museum (among them Le louvre is surely worth a visit to admire La Joconde), walk alongside the Seine. At night, one can visit many theaters (Châtelet, Les Bouches du Nord, Bercy), go to the opera or see films in many cinemas. This is common to all big cities in the world. But Paris is not like the other cities in the world. Paris has the Eiffel tower and the Champs Elysées!


Situated in the seventh arrondissement of Paris, the Iron lady towers the Seine near Quai Branly, just in front of the Iena Bridge. This tower is 324 meters high (if we consider the antenna at the top) and was build in 1887. During 41 years, it was the higher building in the world. Many people and personalities were against the construction; but nowadays it became the most popular symbol to represent the Elysées capital. Since 24th of June 1964 it is part of the long list of France’s historical monuments. In 1991, UNESCO declared it, along other Paris’ monuments, part of the world’s patrimonies.

Close to it, a huge place with green and decorated with statues and sculptures, fountains and stairs made of marble: le Champ de Mars and opposite to it “La Place du Trocadéro”. Wonderful surroundings where youth and elderly people cohabitate on sunny days.

In Paris, of course, there are also lots of restaurant and smaller places to eat. A very celebrated place
is Maxim’s. The rendezvous of celebrities, French and foreign as well. Among the world famous hotels, one will go to Hôtel Lutetia, where during the war the Gestapo agents took quarter. After the war, people coming back from the camps were hosted in the beautiful chambers, waiting for their return to the villages where from they originated.

Like many other cities Paris has a long and interesting history. A visit to Paris is the assurance not to be bored. Gastronomic escapes, cultural occupation, slandering along streets from which history drips at every corner is awaiting to tell you many well kept secret and well known anecdotes.

You can join Paris, by air, by train, by car, even by boat sailing the Seine from Le Havre and passing
Rouen, another wonderful historical city.

Murielle Lucie Clément


europe

Cape Town, South Africa

A jewel at the southern end of Africa

By Anton Venter





Cape Town is the capital of the Western Cape province of South Africa. The city is the country's most popular tourist spot with pristine white beaches arranged around a peninsula. Restaurants offer international cuisine with local flavours added to the mix. Accommodation is available that suits every budget from backpacker to jet-setter.
Cape Town is the southern point of South Africa where the first settlers landed in 1652 to start the long journey of the country's development. The city is not the actual dividing point between Atlantic and Indian Oceans. That honour goes to Cape Agulhas, further south from Cape Town. There are a number of museums that depict Cape Town’s unique history. Many buildings have been preserved over time and those who appreciate historical architecture will not be disappointed.
The 2010 World Cup Soccer resulted in an upgrade of sport stadiums that included Cape Town. The event united the cultures of Cape Town. It showed that black, coloured, white or any colour in between can forget about their differences and make the city a place where tourists feel welcome and safe.
Wine lovers who visit Cape Town are in for a treat. The wine regions around the city are all within five to thirty minutes’ drive from the city. These regions include Durbanville (within Cape Town area) and regions outside the city, e.g. Stellenbosch, Paarl and Somerset West. All these wine farms offer tastings and many of them have also opened some of their vineyards to mountain biking with trails that vary from easy to strenuous.
The long list of restaurants represents cuisine from almost every country in the world. Some restaurants specialize in local cuisine (African, Cape Malay and Afrikaans) and their ambience is often enhanced by music and even dancing.
African menus typically include red meat, game, chicken and “pap” (porridge) with gravy. These restaurants can be found in well-heeled tourist spots as well as townships. Barbequing is a favourite pastime on weekends, combined with beer drinking and watching sport like rugby. You’d be hard pressed to find anything but red meat and sausage on those barbeque grids. An alternative to the grid is a “Potjie”, where a pot is hung over coals to slow-cook a stew of meat and vegetables. Other popular Afrikaans and Cape Malay foods include Bobotie (a kind of meatloaf) and Chakalaka (a garnish of Indian origin). Some of the desert favourites are Koesisters (twisted pastries) and Milktart.
Seafood features well on Cape Town’s menus. A variety of shellfish and line fish is available at most restaurants. Traditional local ways of processing fish are “Bokkoms” (dried and salted fish) and smoked “snoek” (a local fish snubbed by some due to its many bones but very tasty when smoked).
Open-top busses will take you to most tourist spots on the peninsula. Specialised tours are available to the "townships" where low-income housing can be seen with small businesses thriving on the streets. No visit to Cape Town will be complete without a trip up the cable car to the top of Table Mountain, the iconic feature of the city. From here you have views that compare with those of the world's most spectacular cities. The Victoria and Alfred waterfront has departure points for a selection of boat trips around the main harbour and out to beaches such as Clifton. Another favourite destination for a boat trip is Robben Island. There you will find a museum that commemorates the years when there was a fully functioning prison on the island with Nelson Mandela its most famous inmate.
In addition to the standard bus service, the city is phasing in a brand new rapid transport system with dedicated lanes for buses. It has not reached all suburbs yet, but already includes a route from the airport into the city centre. Metrorail trains run only on major routes around the city, but outlying stations include Stellenbosch, Paarl and Somerset West.
Minibus taxis provide a cheaper alternative to regular sedan taxis, but their courageous drivers may not be for the faint-hearted. Some locals are uncomfortable with minibus taxis, but they’re safe as long as they are used within regular hours. Minibus commuters have adopted a unique sign language for hailing a taxi. Using only one hand they communicate with the “gaatchie” (conductor) of an approaching taxi about its route and destination to ensure it’s the one for them.
Cape Town has some interesting outings for nature lovers. Two of these are within twenty minutes’ drive from the city centre. The World of Birds is situated in Houtbay, a vibrant fishing village on the western side of the peninsula. You can stroll through the largest bird enclosure in Africa, carefully watched by owls. Butterfly World is near Klapmuts, north-east of the city. Here you can mingle with free-flying butterflies within safe distance from scorpions and spiders.
Within thirty minutes from the city on the southern side of the peninsula, by car or a scenic train route right next to the ocean, there are the quant fishing villages of Kalk Bay and Fish Hoek. There is a good variety of restaurants in Kalk Bay, the most popular being the Brass Bell, which over the years has developed into a hot spot for younger people where you can choose from six dining areas that range from formal to informal. Those interested in antiques and books should reserve at least half a day to browse the shops in Kalk Bay.
General information
All banks are open Monday to Friday 8h30 to 15h30 and Saturday mornings. Some banks are open on Sunday mornings. ATMs are in abundance. Temperatures vary between 13° and 28°C through winter (May to August) and summer (September to April). Tap water is safe to drink. English is spoken everywhere while some locals speak Afrikaans, the language that has its roots in Dutch.
As far as security is concerned, the same international travel rules apply in Cape Town. Don’t have valuables on display and don’t venture into suspect areas late at night.






Monday, May 27, 2013

Singapore, Republic of Singapore

Singapore, Pearl of Asia

By Siny Sebastian


Enter the realm of the Lion city and you are sure to be enthralled by the beautiful sights that this wonderful and vibrant country is proud to show the world. The enchanted metropolitan island city with its diversified cultures, cuisines and vivacious night life has been able to charm and allure multitudes of modern globetrotter to its shore.
One of the most remarkable features of this island country is that it has been able to constitute 50 % of its area with greenery along with modern sky touching scrapers and subways. In spite of being one of the most densely populated countries, it still has 50 major parks and 4 national reserves within the small area and for this reason it is called the Garden City.
A look back into the history tells how the country got its name from the Malay word “Singapura”. According to the legend, Sang Nila Utama, a Srivijayan prince, landed on the island and, catching sight of a strange creature that he thought was a lion, decided to found a new city and thus “Singapura” or the “Lion City” was born.
Tourism is a major industry in Singapore and therefore we readily accept and seize any new and future oriented trends in leisure and entertainments. As a result of which, tourists consider Singapore as a place which is always full of fresh and new surprises and as a place worthy of repeat visits.
The diversity that the country offers in terms of religion, language, cultures are unparalleled when compared to its size. Tourists are able to communicate easily with the local people since English is one of the main languages along with Chinese, Malay and Tamil. Due to multiculturalism, there is no single set of culturally acceptable behavior.  People are of friendly nature and it is not uncommon to see shopkeepers and customers of multiple races engaging in animated conversations.

Singaporean food cuisine is touted as the potpourri of all cuisines. Food in particular is a steal, since
there is an extensive array of mouth - watering cuisines to satisfy every palate. The legendary hawker centers and coffee houses are open 24/7 and furthermore it is possible to relish these excellent hawker foods for under $5 for a generous serving. It is a paradise for the food lovers since they can try the local favorites like Laksa, roti prata or Chilli Crab or indulge in the international cuisines like Mexican, South East Asian, American, European and Middle Eastern cuisine in this clean city.  International fast food joints such as McDonald’s, KFC can also be seen in most of the shopping malls and is very much visible throughout the region.
Due to the excellent public transport system, it’s very much easy to move around the region. Most of the citizens travel by using bus, train and taxis. Train mode consists of both MRT and LRT. Taxis are also

Sunday, May 26, 2013

St. Paul, Minnesota, USA

St. Paul, Minnesota

By Pamela Sampson


St. Paul, is as diverse a city as they come. It offers big city experience in some areas while other places feel completely suburban. It is divided into many unique neighborhoods. As you There are just so many things to see and do here.
drive through the different areas of the city each place is distinctly different. It is the state capital of Minnesota and one half of the “twin cities” (a common nickname for Minneapolis/ St. Paul).

Mickey’s Diner is a famous little boxcar restaurant tucked right in the middle of it all. It is located near the Children’s Museum and Excel Energy Center where the Minnesota Wild Hockey team plays. If you like pizza, there is another lesser known place called Red’s Savoy Pizza on 7th street. Cossetta’s Italian Market and Pizzeria is an old favorite for many Minnesotans in the area. It opened in 1911 and just recently got a makeover.

History buffs will be excited to see Fort Snelling. Como Zoo and Observatory is located in a much more suburban area of the city. The zoo is free and they also have rides and a water area for the kids. Another thing that makes Como a favorite is the polar bear exhibit, which is not available at the bigger Minnesota Zoo. The Children’s Museum has four exciting levels of fun and imagination. They have everything from a play grocery store to a paint room to a stage for kids to get up and sing. The Science Museum located just down the road, offers learning for kids and adults. They have many different exhibits to keep everyone entertained.

If you come for a visit in the summer there will surely be plenty to keep you entertained. At the end of summer is “the great Minnesota get-together”. The state fair is never dull, with all the food you can find on a stick. Also held at the fairgrounds is “Back to the Fifties” in July.  You can even rent a bike if you choose and see the city in a whole new light.

If looking for some more adult fun, check out St. Paul’s nightlife. Station 4 is a little club where
they offer live music and local bands usually play. If you want less of the “typical tourist” scene it is a great place to go and be sure to leave a note on the chalkboard bathroom walls. In the area of St. Paul known as Dayton’s Bluff, there is a very popular place called the Minnesota Music Café. They have performances from local blues and rock bands, but they have even had headliners like Jonny Lang play.
St. Paul is rich with history and can be a very fun and exciting place to spend time. From Excel Energy Center to James J. Hill House to Como Zoo and Observatory there is such a wonderful feel to this city. There really is something here for everyone.

Alexandria, Egypt

An invitation to Alexandria, the pearl of the Mediterranean

By: Amna El-Tawil

When you hear the word Egypt, you think of the pyramids, the sphinx and pharaonic temples. What Alexandria has to offer is a slightly different Egyptian experience, however. This Mediterranean city has its own distinct culture and even its own unique weather. This is where Mideastern meets Mediterranean, and where the small city feel intertwines with metropolis features, leaving you with that very distinctive Alexandrian sensation.


What to wear
Alexandria is a pleasure to visit in every season. In winter, it’s at its quietest. The streets are washed with the pouring rain, and lay glistening under the city lights. It is one of the very few cities with rainy winters in Egypt. While hot blooded locals cover up in parkas and coats; those coming from cold countries will not feel the need for warmth. In fact, December in Alexandria is only slightly colder than summer in London during the day.  The winter temperature falls between 10 degrees Celsius at night and 20 degrees in the morning.

Alexandrian summers are all about the sea, the beach and the long sea-side Courniche.  You can go jogging in the morning while enjoying the scenery, and then have a light breakfast at one of the many sea view cafes. You will want to pack the lightest possible cloths. The temperature is usually in the mid-thirties and rises to forty degrees Celsius during the day. Summers in Alexandria get crowded as it is
considered a vacation spot for many locals from other cities. I would say the perfect ‘summer’ experience you can have in Alexandria would be in May and June. The heat is not as brutal, the beaches not as crowded, and the sunshine beautiful as ever.

Where to go

Bibliotheca Alexandrina
The modern day Library of Alexandria was built as a tribute to the Ancient Library of Alexandria that was accidentally burnt on the hands on Julius Caesar in 48 BC. Marc Anthony later gifted Cleopatra a collection of books to replace the burnt books.



Library and Museums
The modern day library is considered the main French library in Africa, and houses a rich manuscript museum, in addition to a museum of late Egyptian president Sadat; Nobel Prize winner and the initiator of the first peace treaty with Israel in the Middle East.

Concerts and Events
If you are looking for a night of free or very cheap, yet high quality entertainment, check the Bibliotheca Alexandrina’s event calendar. The library is home to many cultural events, and is considered the perfect place to attend a film viewing, a short lecture, a play or even a topnotch underground music concert (you would be surprised how good some of the local bands are).

· Down Town Alexandria
This is one of my favorite places in Alexandria, specially in winter. Down town Alexandria is the ultimate place for a long walk while window shopping and people-watching. You will find many merchants; some may be pushy, but a simple firm ‘no’ will put them off. If you are looking for souvenirs, this is where you will find them, just make sure you haggle to at least half the starting merchant offer.

Souvenir merchants in front of Qaitbay Citadel, down town
If you are lucky enough to have the chance to visit in winter, stroll the down town Alexandria streets for a feel of aged class and splendor in the ancient cafes and restaurants. Two restaurants you must try during your visits are located in down town: Santa Lucia; an upscale Italian offering live entertainment, delicious food, and the best service in town, and China House; a restaurant located on the roof of Cecil hotel offering one of the best views of the Courniche and the sea.

Helsinki, Finland

MyCity – Helsinki, Finland

 By Denise Ruthmann


Helsinki is the capital of Finland and it is lying in the very south of the country. The city has its very own charm and is not comparable to any other north European harbour town, because it has been influenced by Russian and West European cultures. With its great location directly at the sea, rich culture, the exotic seeming Finnish language and the kindness of its people Helsinki presents itself as a welcoming and attractive city, which remains long time in a visitors memories.



Most interesting is the very center of Helsinki. Here you can find modern shopping malls as well as individual little shops, international restaurants from all over the world as well as traditional Finnish cuisine, art, culture, entertainment and much more. It has been built in the style of classicism by its famous architect was Carl Ludwig Engel.
The most famous building in Finland is located in the center as well: The white cathedral or Tuomiokirkko in Finnish.

 You can find the beautiful building printed as a motive on countless postcards and also the inside of the cathedral is worth a visit. Right in front of the Tuomiokirkko lies the popular Senat Square which is surrounded by small shops and cafés and often venue of public gatherings and markets. Close by you can find the popular Kauppatori, a marketplace directly at the harbour which offers regularly creative, fresh and delicious products for all seasons. Especially interesting in the area of the Kauppatori are the ships which can bring you to Stockholm in Sweden, Tallinn in Estonia and Suomenlinna. The latter is a beautiful Finnish island right in front of Helsinki. In former times it was used as a sea fortress. Nowadays the island is a part of  the city and also inhabited by some. Suomenlinna is a green and lovely place with breathtaking views on the sea and loved to be visited by tourists as much as by Finns.

Beside the center also the parks of the Finnish capital are worth mentioning. Most well-known is a park called Kaivopuisto. This park is one of the oldest and most beautiful parks in all over Helsinki and lies directly at Helsinkis' coast. From here you have a perfect view on the sea, ships and small islands. The meadows of the park offer a great opportunity for picnics during summer time. Especially at the 1. of May, the official Finnish Vappu holiday, a visit in Kaivopuisto is the best hint you can get. At this occasion every year half Helsinki seems to gather in this park and celebrates Vappu with a lot of fun, music, beverages and grilled food.


So don't hesitate any longer, but come to visit this, both lively and lovely, city in the far north.

Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

Viva Las Vegas

By Virginia Fidler

I live in Las Vegas.  If New York is the City that Never Sleeps, Las Vegas is the City That Winks.  Sin City doesn't take itself seriously.  It's all laid back.  There is an abundance of gambling, of course, but you can visit Las Vegas, never enter a casino, and still have the time of your life.



Vegas has absolutely no limits on when businesses can operate, so you can take care of business all night long, 365 days a year.  And you don't need to set foot on the Strip.  Public transportation takes you wherever you want.  Take a light sweater with you, because Vegas can hit the nippy 50s during the night.

Buy a car at 2:00 am and bring it to the all-night mechanic for a tune up.  Drop off your dry cleaning at the 24 hour dry cleaning place down the block.  Feel like some shopping?  It'll take awhile for your car to be fixed, so check out the electronics stores that's open.  You'll want some clothes for your trip, so see what the retail boutiques have on sale at 3:30 am.  Needless to say, most markets and drugstores never close.  And if your teeth start to hurt, drop by the never-closed dental clinics.  Dental hygiene doesn't stop at 4:00 am.

Of course, you need to be in shape for the new jeans you just bought, so stop by the numerous all-night fitness places.  The night is almost over, so you'll want to face the day looking fine. Choose one of the many beauty spas that never close and get your hair and nails done.  Before you get breakfast, catch the latest number one flick at a 24 hour cineplex.  And don't forget, if you feel like getting married, this is the place.

No doubt, you're ready for breakfast.  There are literally thousands of places where you can get your eggs, but don't forget that Las Vegas is filled with culinary giants.  It's where the likes of Michael Mina, Emeril Lagasse and Wolfgang Puck have opened shop. Vegas knows culinary bliss.

If you're in Las Vegas for a few days, take a side trip by bus or helicopter to the Grand Canyon.  It's an unbelievable experience.



Come to Las Vegas.  Since the casinos don't make their profits on rooms, luxury rooms are dirt cheap.  The entertainment is first class.  Every type of food can be hand, and the margaritas are 99 cents.  Shop at exclusive designer stores or go for discount outlets.  Where else do you find six (count 'em) Louis Vuitton shops within a few short blocks?
Viva Sin City!  There's no place like it.


Rivne, Ukraine

Picture By: ukrainetrek.com 

by Yulia Vashchuk

Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is rich in cultural wealth and natural resources. Rivne is a city in northwest of this beautiful country. It has the status of the regional center, but it still remains as a small quiet town with a sincere, friendly and open people. You can see a lot of them walking in a nice square in the center of a town. If you arrive in Rivne and have nothing to do just go to its center. There you will feel what you are ready to do. Everyone who gets there feel friendly atmosphere and ease in your heart.
At a first glance the rhythm of life there may seem slow but people live here an active life. They just know how to relax if they want to do that. Young people engaged in a variety of sports. The most common are speedway and football. Basketball, volleyball, rugby, baseball and hockey are also popular. World Women's Checkers Championship  was in Rinve in 2011.
There are a few museums in Rivne. The most interesting and newest is an Amber Museum. Amber is known for its healing features and is produced in Rivne region.
If you like cultural centers you can visit Drama, organ hall, cinemas and art galleries.


Other ways people spend leisure time here are ice skating, rollerblading, skiing and skateboards. A lot of people visit gyms. In summer you can ride a bicycle or have a picnic. There is a beach on a river Ustya. In the end of spring people begin to spend a lot of time there having picnics and getting a suntan. Going out of town for a picnic is also very popular. There are a lot of woods there. If you wish you can pick berries and mushrooms there.
There are a lot of cafes and restaurants in Rivne. So if you feel freezzy walking in Winter you can find some quiet place to drink coffee, hot tea or to eat some tasty Ukrainian or non-Ukrainian meals. If you like fast food there is McDonalds and a lot of cafes serving pizza. You can have a picnic in one of the squares if you wish.
If you wish to have fun you can visit one of the disco clubs or karaoke.
There is a brewery and a bakery in Rivne. So you can try a lot of tasty things from there.
To get to their job people mostly use buses, trolleybuses and cars. But some sporty men use bicycles. It is easy to get to their work for people who live out of town because there are two bus stations and a train station in Rivne. To the closest places buses go every 15 minutes.
Religions of citizens mostly are Orthodox and Catholics. But there are nearly 26 of other confessions.
What to avoid there? Do not share how much money you have with the robbers. ))
Foreigners are frequent guests and always leave the city with lots of positive experiences.

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Grecia, Costa Rica

Invitation to my city: Grecia, Costa Rica

Written by Dovile Vaigauskaite


Grecia, though called after European country (in Spanish "Grecia" means Greece), is a typical Costa Rican town. What I like about it is that it is not too big and not too small - it is just perfect. No traffic jams, only few traffic lights, lots of people walking to take care of their errands in hundreds of little shops. You can find almost anything you need here, even a cinema!

Attractions:

Grecia canton has approximately 78 000 inhabitants, although the city itself is much smaller - approximately 15 000 persons call Grecia town their home. Situated on the southwestern slope of famous Poas volcano, and being only 40 minutes ride from San Jose International airport, Grecia is a perfect touristic spot. Most of the visitors are drawn here for its famous metal church - the Cathedral of Our Virgin Mercedes.

After yet another fire had damaged old wooden church back in the 19th century, the locals decided to re-build the church from metal so that no fire could damage it ever again. The metal sheets were shipped all the way from Belgium in 1890 (although some urban legend states that the Belgian metal came to Grecia by mistake: it was meant to be shipped to Greece, and not Costa Rica). The locals take great care of their beloved monument - the church's facade is being painted every few years, although the color always remains the same, deep bordeaux. If you are interested in the history of Grecia canton, visit Regional Museum of Grecia, situated next-door to the church.



Another local attraction is the snake museum  "Snake World" (Mundo de los Serpientes in Spanish), situated in the outskirts of Grecia. It is quite famous among the snake fans, as this place is known for breeding a variety of species, some of which are quite rare. Snake World has around 150 snakes of 50 different species. I am not a big fan of these reptiles, but even I found the tour very interesting and informative (I could not believe how much of misconceptions we have about these animals). Recently, the museum has become a center for rescued wild animals, which means that you may be lucky to see other than snakes animals too.


Costa Rica is a land of nature, abundant in waterfalls. Grecia is proud of one too - Los Chorros waterfall. You will not be ran over by masses of tourists here, as the place is mostly visited by locals. So if you can, head there on a weekday instead of a weekend. Also, bring your lunch: the place has few spots with tables and benches, great for a picnic. Getting to Los Chorros is best by hiring a taxi.

Grecia is a great place to stay overnight and do some day trips. Sarchi, famous for its woodwork artisans, is only 10 minutes drive away. Make sure to visit the factory of the chariots ("carretas" as they are called in Spanish) and the church in the main square. You can see the Poas volcano, famous for being the most accessible volcano in the world, from Grecia center: it is only 45 minutes drive away. If you do go to see Poas, make sure to stop at La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Although the ticket price is a bit much (35 USD), it is totally worth it. The Gardens do not only have 5 most beautiful waterfalls, but also a butterfly observatory, frog pond (most of the frogs that live there you would never see in wilderness), a hummingbird garden, aviary, snakes (yes, more snakes), monkeys' house and even jungle cat exhibit. This is one of my favorite local attraction.

Local food:

Grecia is a great example of typical Costa Rican life. Most residents work in farming sector, growing sugar cane and coffee. Therefore, Grecia is a perfect place to indulge your thirst for coffee. Make sure to grab few bags of local coffee to bring home (any Costa Rican coffee bought in a supermarket is good). If you are interested in how coffee is grown, visit Doka Coffee Plantation: their tours and coffee are famous worldwide. My favorite place to take coffee in Grecia is Las Delicias, a cafe situated on the corner down from the church. Its a great spot for people-watching and for some tasty deserts.

Costa Rican traditional food is quite simple yet tasty. Most typical dish is a so-called "casado" (translated from Spanish, a married man's meal), which comprises rice, beans, salad, fried plantains, meat/poultry/fish of your choise, and fried egg. With one dish like this you will be satisfied for almost a whole day, and you will pay 4-5 USD for it in Grecia. I recommend "El Rancho de Nelson", a family owned restaurant not far from the church, on the same street as the bus station. Make sure to try their milk shakes.



If it happens to be a warm day (Grecia has a very comfortable climate as it is never too hot or too cold), go to ice cream parlor "POPS". I truly believe they have the best ice cream in the world. My personal favorite is coconut and mango.

Every Friday afternoon and Saturday morning there is a local farmers' market (on the road to shopping mall "El Ingenio"). Visiting the market is an experience of its own, where you will definitely see fruits and vegetables you have never seen before.

Local peculiarities:

Although Grecia is a small town, having a map with you is a good idea as it is easy to get lost. Bear in mind, that there are no addresses in Costa Rica. As shocking and scary as it may sound, locals have lived without them for ages, and most foreigners survive too. You find places through geographic indications, e.g. 100 metros south of the church. Having a compass (or a good GPS) will help a lot. And make sure you know which church exactly is meant...

You can reach places by public bus or taxi. Grecia, and the surrounding towns and villages, are very safe and taxi drivers will not try to cheat you on the fare. Still, make sure the taxi meter is on, to avoid any possible misunderstandings.

Costa Ricans are known to be the happiest people in the world. Actually, the thing that attracted me to this country were its people. They will always smile and help you, even if they do not speak English or are busy with something else. Due to their politeness, Ticos (as Costa Ricans are called) will avoid saying "no" or "I don't know" not wanting to disappoint you. However this can cause some inconveniences when you ask for directions, and a good-intending Tico sends you totally the wrong way. It is always a good idea to ask another person the same thing, just to make sure you are headed the right direction.

People will greet you with "pura vida", which literally translates to "life is pure" and is used as "how are you?" in English. However, "pura vida" means much more than this - it is a Costa Rican way of life. Take things easy and enjoy the moment. I hope you enjoy Grecia, my pura vida town.

central America

Pokhara City, Nepal

Pokhara City, Nepal, Asia

by Suman Ojha

Pokhara is the most beautiful city of country Nepal. It is a valley bounded by gorgeous green hills.
Within the valley also, there are little hills which culminate the beauty of the city. Beyond the surrounding hills are the snow-white mountains that can be seen from several parts of the city and more vividly from top of the nearby hills. Pokhara is a little heaven on a small land.

Nature has blessed the city with a number of bounties. It is also called city of Lakes. There are several lakes within the valley among which
Fewa Lake and Begnas lake have been the heart of the city. In addition, there are several adventurous caves like Mahendra Cave, Bats’ Cave and Gupteshower Cave. Devi’s Fall is another interesting and should-be-visited aspect of Pokhara. This is not the end, Seti River which flows through the heart of the city is well known for the George structures it has created through the path. These are only the natural gifts of the city; besides, there are several culturally and religiously valuable assets as well. World Peace Pagoda (at the top of hill surrounding Fewa Lake), Matepani Gumpa and Bindabasini Temple are other important cultural places for tourists.
A lot of opportunities are also available for adventurous people. If one wishes to see the whole valley in a glance, s/he might go to Sarankot Hill. It’s a tall hill on the western side of Pokhara valley from where you can get a telescope to view the every detail of the city. Moreover, you can do Paragliding over the Fewa Lake and in the sky above the city to enjoy the all round beauty. If this doesn’t satisfy you, then experiencing the world's steepest, fastest and tallest Zip Line will be waiting for you to give the ultimate thrill.
If tourists happen to visit around the New Year (January 1), they become lucky to experience Street Festival at the Lake Side (area near Fewa Lake). During this festival, Lake Side glows in light for the whole night. Moreover, during the time of October and November, tourists can see people celebrating Dashain (the greatest festival of Hindus). The festival runs for 10 days and all the people throughout the country celebrate this festival regardless of their religion. People take ‘tika’ on their forehead and blessings from their elders. Relatives living far away meet together on the occasion of Dashain festival and share their happiness and sorrows. Similarly, Holi is another exciting festival that is celebrated here. In this festival, people play by throwing colored powders on each other. It is believed as a celebration of victory of divine over the devil in the ancient past.
Tourists can move from one place to another within the city in public buses. However, if they have enough money, taxis can be easily available to them. In addition, they can hire a cycle for short rides and bike for long distance tours.
Another interesting speciality of Pokhara is Rainfall. It is the city that has the highest rainfall record throughout the country. Monsoon season is the best time to visit Pokhara for rain lovers. However, it can be annoying if the days become cloudy and one doesn’t get chance to get the view of bright mountains. Also, heavy rainfall might be unfavorable if one is planning to do boating. Yet, if you are fond of rafting, this is the best time for you.


These were only a few things about Pokhara city. No absolute beauty can be described in words, since it lies in the eyes of the beholder. So, visit Pokhara city and explore its immense beauty and hidden treasures.



Saturday, May 25, 2013

Prague, Czech Republic

By Richard Barkand


If you take away the political borders, you might realize that Prague is located nearly in the center of Europe. It is part of the reason why many multinational companies have established offices in the Czech Republic’s capital city. It also helps to explain why so many travelers criss-crossing the continent make a point of adding Prague to their agenda.
But there is much more to the city than just a convenient stopping point. You know you are in an interesting place when you discover that the “New Town” district was first established in the year 1348.

Two of the most famous landmarks in the city are the Charles Bridge (construction began in 1357) and Prague Castle. But you do not have to limit yourself to only those two places. The neighborhoods on either end of Charles Bridge are full of narrow, crooked streets lined with restaurants, pubs, and craft shops. The weather is generally very pleasant from April to October, so you probably won’t mind losing track of time or your sense of direction.
Another must-see is the astronomical clock in Old Town Square. At the start of every hour, the clock performs a short, whimsical show. The square itself is full of beautiful buildings in different styles of architecture.



The public transportation system is modern, reliable, and inexpensive. An unlimited 24 hour pass costs 110 CZK (around $5.50 USD). Most locals buy a pass annually which costs around $240 USD.
One thing that the city has not been known for is its cuisine. The traditional meat-centric dishes are readily available in nearly every neighborhood pub. One interesting and slightly unusual dish is called Svickova. It consists of marinated beef in a cream sauce with knedliky (dumplings) and, oddly, cranberries and whipped cream.



If you want something lighter, that’s ok. In the last five years, there has been a mushrooming of vegetarian restaurants and specialty shops offering fresh alternatives.
Speaking of mushrooms, for those who venture outside the city, mushroom picking is a favorite hobby of many Czechs. Go for a walk on one of the many well-marked hiking trails and you will certainly find people carrying baskets full of the various types of mushrooms growing in the forest. In fact, on summer weekends the city can feel a little empty. Many families have a chata (cottage) where they go to get a break from urban life.


Prague is also famous for its beer. And they do take their beer seriously here. The larger breweries employ inspectors who make visits to pubs and restaurants to check that their product is stored, poured, and served properly. Many microbreweries have sprung up recently to add more variety to the local beer culture.
After all, there is no better way to end a day of walking around the city’s stone and brick streets.
europe

Alba Iulia, Romania

Alba Iulia,  The Fortress of Transylvania

By Bogdan Alexandru Suciu 



             Alba Iulia is a city full of wonder , the heart of Romania, the fortress of Transylvania. This city , without doubts , had the biggest and the most important role in the history of  Romania . From Alba Iulia the nation began to flourish.
Alba Iulia is located in a tourist area and it is very attractive to travelers, who are  received and welcomed with great hospitality on this land. The tourist potential of the area finds its reflection in a broad constellation of evidence of  a past millennia, expressed in chain monuments of architecture and art, in a variety of natural beauties.
  Alba municipality was in ancient times a human civilization hearth where specific Romanian folk customs and traditions exert a special attraction for tourists from home and abroad.
If you are new on this land  , there are a variety of  possibilities to develop. So here are some great attractions for the passionate tourists. One of the most interesting things to see is the exchange of guard ceremony that takes place on Saturdays and on Sundays at the Third Gate. The entire ceremony takes place as it used to be in the medieval period, when Alba Iulia was probably the most impressive fortress from the Eastern part of Europe.




During this ceremony , the riders with their horses  and the soldiers use to march and surround  the fortress to the delight of the public that come in large numbers.

Alba Iulia is full of other attractions for example The Orthodox Cathedral, known as Coronation Cathedral, is the artistic expression of our national unity achieved by the Act of 1918. The building has a shape like a Greek cross. The entrance to the church is through an open porch with large arches, supported on four columns with capitals.
Another very important historical monument located near the Orthodox Cathedral is The Roman Catholic Cathedral built in the thirteenth century. It is the most valuable monument of early Transylvanian medieval architecture, harmoniously combining the elements of the Gothic and Roman architecture.


Near the Roman Catholic Cathedral we can find the statue of Michael the Brave, one of the greatest rulers of Romania.  There are many other monuments , historical buildings , National Museums where you can find valuable objects from ancient times that have more than 2000 years of existence , the union Hall, the Old part of town and a very big fortress surrounded by channels , caves and caverns and if I will mention them all probably I will not finish today with the enumeration. Another thing that I would like to say and emphasize is that only the entire fortress has more than 10 tourist routes and during these routes you can ride horses and drive using the  medieval carriage.
In the end I would like to mention one more monument. Having a great importance for the Romanian culture the Library Bathyaneum is a major  historical objective for Alba Iulia. It is known worldwide for its collections of great value representing manuscripts and rare prints
So what are you waiting for? Do not waste your time ! Come and visit Alba Iulia, The Heart of Romania !
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