10 U.S. City Nickname Origins

Tell anyone that you're taking a trip to Beantown or The Big Apple and they'll likely know exactly where you're headed. Many cities across the country have adopted popular nicknames that are almost as well-known as the city itself. But where did these funny monikers come from? Read on to learn the origins of everything from "The Windy City" to "The City of Brotherly Love."

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Ideal Traveling Destinations in 2011

In 2011, which places in the world do you want to travel ? If you haven't got any idea in mind, please refer to the ideal destinations introduced below.

South Africa

South Africa is a hot destination for the world during Summer 2010 when acting as the host of a successful World Cup season. How about 2011? The monumental works imposing in Cape Town and Johannesburg Center are still waiting for you. It is not very hard for you to admire them as the moment for World Cup.

Stockholm - Sweden

If you are a fan of the works "Girl With the Dragon Tattoo) of Swedish author - Stief Larsson, you can explore the capital city of Sweden - Stockholm through the eyes of of the main character in the film adapted same name. However, why don't you explore the real Stockholm?

You can wander through many narrow streets of the vicinity Sodermalm, where the writer lived and had the inspiration for his book; but do not be a foolish looking everywhere for Hedestad, because this town is merely the product of imagination. Instead, please take a trip on boat from the center of Stockholm to Sandhamn.

South Pole

100 years after the the Norwegian explorer - Roald Amundsen - honored as the first person to find the South Pole, discovering Antarctic becoming one of the first choice of those who like to conquer nature.

However, you do not have to go to Amundsen-Scott Station at 90 degree south to enjoy the freezing feeling; just take a step to the border of this icy continent to feel it!

New York - The USA

For tourists, NY - which is famous for the name "Big Apple", is always an inspiration that you cannot miss. In 2011, people have another reason for going to this destination - 10-year anniversary of the disaster of the U.S on 11th September, 2001.

The National Monument 11/9 will be completed on this occasion right at the Twin towers, and the underground museum is also being deployed.

National Park in Canada

If you are a nature lover, Canada should definitely be out in the top list of your traveling destinations.

The first National Park of Canada - Banff in Alberta was established 125 years before. The festival for celebrating 100-year of establishment will be held in 2011, which is promised to bring to the tourists the relaxing time and interesting experiences .

Stretching from Cape Breton Highlands in Nova Scotia to Auyuittug tundra in Nunavut province, the Northern Canada has 36 National Parks for you to choose in pleasure.

London - UK

An attention booming in London these days is for the preparation for the wedding day of Prince William and Kate Middleton, which will be held at Westminster Abbey church.

The wedding took place on 29th April will be the opportunity for people to admire again the Royal jewelry from royal wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana Spencer.

If you plan to visit this foggy capital, just go to Straffordd County in West London to visit the Olympic Park Avenue, where the 2012 Summer Olympics will be taken place.

Although the work is still in progress, at least you will have the opportunity to witness this great constructing work.

Puerto Rico

Beaches, tropical rain forest, etc have made this tropical island become ideal for filming some scenes in Part 4 of the film "Pirates of the Caribbean".

Although the wave of tourism has been slow down, the climate here is still great. You can take a rest under the umbrella and enjoy a cool atmosphere of the sea. A new ferry has been put into operation from the Old San Juan to Catano, where the famous rhum factory Bacardi was built.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania - USA

A devastating civil war in the past destroyed this country; however, the 150-year anniversary of the bloody conflict taken place this year will open a new look to the world about the remains of a heart-breaking past.

A national park community including more than 70 America-style parks which are associated with the instense fight and the events taking place during four years starting in 2011 will partly re-sketched picture of the battles, the people, and the key battlegrounds.

The conservationists hope that the attention of people around the world will contribute to the protection of this historic mark.

 

Machu Picchu - Peru

Hidden high above the Andes is Machu Picchy of the Inca empire. This shrine was only know to the outside world thanks to the discovery of the historian Hiram Bingham in 1911.

Events and Festivals celebrating for the 100 years of this mysterious city is planning to deployment. These events and festivals include many promotional activities for tourists about the traditional Inca culture. 2011 is also a year marking the spectacular return of Machu Picchu after a failed tourism due to the flood disaster .

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Valentine's Day - Where To Go ?

For those who are in love are expecting a special Valentine's Day. Roses, chocolate are too familiar and indispensable in Valentine's Day. If you have traveling hobbies, you will definitely no want to miss the opportunity to travel with your lover on the Valentine's Day. Here are 10 traveling destinations that may be suitable for couples.

1. Paris - A city of love

Many tourists often call Paris by a beloved name - A City of Love. You will not be fretful when go sightseeing on the boat on the Seine; or walking around Montmartre hill where Amelie acted; or sitting on a balloon Aeroparis and enjoying the city view from above. 

Ideal place for kisses: outside coffee lounge Cafe de l'Hotel de Ville, where many famous pictures of young couples have been captured by photographer Robert Doisneau.

Attention places: area around Pigalle Place where there are a lot of sex shops, clubs, and French-style tavern only suitable for adult. It also includes the famous Moulin Rouge.

Only suitable for: New couples.

Rating: 10/10

2. Venice - Italy

Venice is too majestic that you could not believe in your eyes. Magnificent! You will forget all worries when coming here at the weekend, and especially with you darling. The city often has big flood in February, but you still can lie on the bed to take a nap or to relax.

Ideal place for kisses: on a famous Italian-style Galdola boat heading to Rialto bridge.

Suitable for: romantic people

Rating: 10/10

3. Amsterdam - Holand

Amsterdam is famous for a low city with a interlacing canal system running through the city. These canals plus the architecture of the city create a picturesque Amsterdam - an ideal destination for sauntering or riding bicycle around. This is also a diamond trading center of Europe.

Ideal place for kisses: a romantic Cocktail bar at the 23th floor of Okura hotel.

Attention places: Amsterdam has various sex shops, clubs for homosexual, especially gathering mostly at Red Light District.

Suitable for: young and open-minded people.

Rating: 7/10

4. Rome - Italy

Rome is a capital city of Italy, so it looks really charming and has a classic beauty. Rome boasts of outdoor market, Roman square, and Sistine cathedral - where make you contemplate about the value of life when taking step here.

Let pray for the immortal and everlasting love of you and your darling at the La Bocca Della Verità which was built in the first century. It is believed that this place is really sacred, so that there are many couples coming here to pray for their love.

Ideal place for kisses: at midnight beside the Trevi fountain when there are a few people.

Attention places: The Vatican has a huge number of visitors; therefore you should be prepared if there is any unexpected chaos.

Suitable for those who want to warm up their love.

Rating: 9/10

5. Prague - The Czech Republic

Prague is one of the most romantic city in the world. You will be surprised when seeing a town from Middle-Age remained until now. You will also have chance to experience a travel on the river at the mid-night; and have a romantic dinner before returning to the hotel and enjoy a perfect night.

Ideal place for kisses: Charles bridge fro 14th century.

Attention: Prague is famous for sex tourism. There are many bars, sex shops everywhere.

Suitable for those who want all that special.

Rating: 8/10

6. Reykjavik - Iceland

Reykjavik  in winter will be a little cold but the lake water is still warm. There are many natural hot water pool which are the best choices for you to enjoy the lovely moment with you sweet-heart.

Ideal place for kisses: under the northern lights, and in February is the best time for enjoying views here.

Attention places: this city is also famous for the diversification of fruit, and the humidity is very hight.

Suitable for veteran couples.

Rating: 7/10

7. New York - USA

In New York, everything is very big and expensive, and Valentine's Day is not the exception. You should not  miss some romantic activities like go on a carriage ride on the Center Park which is covered by a thick layer of snow; skating at some outdoor ice rink, and watch the performances at Broadway Avenue.

Ideal place for kisses: at Brooklyn when watching Manhattan skyline.

Attention place: Liberty hotel at Avenue 10, which has been voted as a Best Transient Hotel of the city.

Suitable for everyone. This city can meet the requirement of everyone.

Rating: 8/10

8. London - The UK

London has almost all the necessary things for a romantic trip. You cannot help but to dine at the restaurants impressed with jewel, and dishes cooked by super-class chefs. You will have many choices to have fun and relax at this destination.

Ideal place for kisses: while sauntering along Southern Bank.

Suitable for hasten lovers.

9. Monte Carlo

Anyone who love fretty and troubled feeling will be attracted when coming to Monte Carlo. The great restaurant, casino, and the charming beauty of ancient schools are what you will easily see here.

Great place for kisses: at table where you play roulette and bet all at a rotation of chances.

Attention place: stay away from gambling tables, just enjoy the happy moment with your lovers.

Suitable for challenging people

Ratting: 9/10

10.Istanbul - Turkey

Istanbul is a fastest growing city in Europe. In fact, this city is half of Europe and half of Asia. Coming to this destination, you will have opportunity to enjoy the most romantic time with your darling by soaking in a traditional Hamams bathtub of the Turkish.

Great place for kisses: at the peak of The Buyuk Camlica - the highest place of the city - to catch the sunset with your lover.

Suitable for couples who like adventure

Rating: 7/10

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