Norway - Heaven of dreams

Situated at Northern Europe, Norway is one of the most beautiful countries in the world with famous majestic mountains, bays, lakes, and lots of modern cities. 

Found in 997, Trondheim is the oldest city in Norway. This city is proud of a rich cultural herritage as well as major center of Norway. Although the city's area is modest, there are various cultural and artistic events taken place in Trondheim.

Lysefjord is one of the famous fjords of Norway. Every year, it has 300,000 visitors come to visit and discover the exceptional natural beauty.

Rago National Park, located in Sørfold - Nordland county, has an area of 171 kilometers square. This is also a place where there are so many beautiful natural scenery that makes all visitors astonished to admire.

Geirangerfjord is a fjord in the Sunnmore, in the southernmost part of More og Romsdal county. It is considered the most beautiful bay in the world and was recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.

Lofoten Islands is the place owning beautiful natural scenery which is attracted to tourists. Even though it is located in the Northern Hemisphere, the warm climate makes Lafoten difference in this icy land.

Bergen is a port city located in the southwest of Norway; it is considered the gate to the spectacular and majestic bays. Bergen is the second largest area in Norway after the capital - Oslo.

Coming to Berlevag, an urban county of Finnmark, visitors will have opportunity to admire the Northern Lights. This is an extremely interesting scientific phenomenon showing the full color of light in the night sky.

Gjende Lake in Jotunheimen is 18 miles long, with the blue color, and surrounded by towering mountains blue water color characteristics.

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Decoding Japan by questions

Which time to travel to Japand; why is everything in Japan so adorable, etc. Those are some questions that travelers often wonder about this beautiful country.

What is the most ideal time to travel to Japan?

Japan has a lot of festivals, and they are taken place in all four seasons; Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter. However, the best time to travel to this country is in the early of April, when cherry blossoms bloom everywhere and you're like entering into a wonderland. Besides, this is the time that companies are working hard, and students are busy to go to school, so most of the attractions are not too crowded.

The worst times to travel to Japan are at the big and long national festival, when expenses are increasing and the roads and attractions are full of people. There are 3 times you should avoid, they are: New Year Eve, golden weeks, and Obon festival. In addtion, you should also avoid coming to Japan in the rainy season.

Are obese people discriminated in Japan?

The answer is YES. Japan is one of the countries with low rates of obesity in the world. Most Japanese are slim. However, fat people are not discriminated too much.

Is Japan large?

Japan has an area of 377.944 kilometers square, rated at the 62th in the world above Germany, Finland, Italy, etc. Japan has 6.852 islands, and four large islands which are Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku.

Is Kyoto the capital city of Japan?

Kyoto used to be capital city of Japan from year 794 to 1868; after that, the new government moved capital to Tokyo. To many Japanese people, Kyoto is their "official capital city". Nowadays, Kyoto is one of the historical city, and is a famous destinations for travelers from all over the world. There are over 240 temples and tombs in this city. Many people praise this ancient capital as the most beautiful city in the world.

Japan is not only a modern country but also retains many traditional value

Does Japan has poisonous snakes?

Snakes appear in Japanese history as often as Geisha, Samurai, and Ninja. Poisonous snakes are found in the major islands of Japan; Okinawa has the most. Therefore, Japanese government has erected lots of warning signs of poisonous snake throughout the country.

If you are hiking or jogging in Japan, you will be encouraged to wear long pants, socks and shoes carefully. Each year, thousands of people are hospitalized after being bit by snakes, but the number of people dead because of poisonous snakes are very low, less than 1%.

What is Kappa monster?

Kappa is a monster living in rivers, streams, and is a legendary monster in Japanese folk culture. Kappa's height is as tall as a child and have many similarities with lizards. They are very good swimmers. On their head has a hole to contain water, and if the water in the hole are filled, they are still powerful. 

Kappa - the scary monster in Japanese culture.

This species love eating cucumber; therefore, in the Edo period, parents often engraved their children's name on cucumbers, and throw them into the river with the believe that they will protect their children from the attack Kappa.

Kappa is an imaginary character, and it is not true, but in many periods, the Japanese still believe it existence. At some rivers, they still put warning signs of this species Kappa. 

Why is Japan called Japan? 

In Japanese, Japan is read as Nippon. In the last century, Portugal was one of the first countries to trade with Japan. They are also the first to try spell the name Japan (Nippon) into Latin for easy call. 

Initially, they translate Nippon into Jippon. Then the French pronounce as Japon and finally, in English, it is pronounced as Japan. Therefore, today, Japan is called Japany in English. 

Why is everything in Japan so cute?

According to many tourists traveling to Japan, this country has many adorable things, cute products; simply because the Japanese like that. Since people like cute things, products produced by many Japanese companies should also follow this trend if they want a great sale.

In Japan, everything is decorated the cutest.

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10 places to travel in November

(Gotravelings.com) November with the cool weather is the ideal time for traveling. Here are 10 places that you should visit in this month.

1. Maroc

In November, the heat in Maroc's desears is going down dramatically which is only around 32 celcius degree. That's why this is an ideal time for travelers who love sunbathing or discovering deserts. You also can visit the capital city Marrakesh to go shopping, or register for tours to the Atlas.

2. Canary Island, Cyprus

The weather in Canary is very beautiful in this season. The temperature is around 20 celcius degree which is a great temperature for wandering, or swimming. You can also visit Larnaca city to discover and learn about the culture and history of  Cyprus area.

3. Normandy

The countryside Normandy in France with the magnificent cities such as Boulogne, Calais will definitely impress all the travelers. The fresh and cool climate also support visitor to travel around the area.

4. India

November is a great time for travelers who love parties and festivals. Especially, visitors can enjoy in the lighting festival Diwali of the Hindu which is taken place in 5 days. During this festival, Indian people will light up candles during the night, which makes India really beautiful and sparkling.

5. Germany

November is the time when the German start to shop to prepare for Christmas Eve. In all the markets, German people sell everything from sausage, photos to the sparkling pine tree decorated stuffs. The great places to visit in Germany is the ancient city Nuremberg, Munich, or Berlin.

6. Birmingham

The second biggest market for Christmas after Germany and Austria is in Birmingham, Enlang. At this time last year, 5 millions visitors from all over the world came to visit 193 shops in Victoria square. And this year, the exhibition taken place on 15th November is expected to welcome more visitors.

7. Zermatt

Zermatt is a famous skiing place in Switzerland in particular, and in Europe in general. Here, visitors can stay in the beautiful woody mountain house, and enjoy special delicious meals of North Europe area.

8. Sao Paulo

People who love sport will surely not miss Sao Paulo in November this year; because in the 25th of November, the Grand Prix Formula 1 will be taken place here.

9. Paris

Paris is always the city for people who love art and the beauty. In this November, there will be a paintings exhibition of the artist - Salvador Dali opened in this place. As a painter surrealist, to enter his exhibit, you will have to go through an egg into and out of a brain model.

10. London

This year is the year of events in London. This November, in the capital of United Kingdom, there will be a photography exhibition at Tate modern museum. The exhibition also shows famous costumes of Hollywood stars. There is also Bonfire firework festival in Battersea park which is expected to attract a lot of visitors.

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The Balinese Adventure in Indonesia

Bali has that magical and mythological feel to it and why not? It is a land filled with ancient temples, volcanic lakes, beautiful architecture and religious festivals. Bali is a land with ethnic culture and beautiful color. It is one of the several islands of Indonesia, situated between the islands Java and Nusa. The Balinese people are well known for their ethnicity and their creativity. In spite of modern influences, Bali has retained much of its ancient lineage in the form of sculptures, paintings and art and culture.

Pura Besakih  

 Mother Temple of Bali, Indonesia (Source)

This thousand year old temple is one of the biggest temples in Bali. It is situated on the slopes of Mt. Agung. There are three main temples dedicated to the Trinity: Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu. A visit to the temple is considered a special pilgrimage for the people of Bali.

Terraced rice paddies

 

Terraced Rice Paddies (Source)

 A beautiful landscape between Candidasa and Amalpura.

Tanah Lot

 Sea Temple of Bali (Source)

Built by one of the last priests who came to Java in the 16^th century, this temple is built on top of a rock surrounded by sea on all sides. The temple is mainly to offer homage to the guardian spirits of the sea.

Gunung Batur

This is the shadow of where we’re standing.

Gunung Batur - Symbolic of the female element (Source)

It is one of the still active volcanoes at an altitude of 5,635 feet and considered one of the second holiest mountains on the island.

Ubud

  Center of Balinese paintings (Source)

Ubud’s Museum, Purl Lukisan is a wonderful place to observe and appreciate the Balinese art. Art work of famous artists like Hans Snel, Antonio Blanco and Arie Smith can also be seen here.

Things to do in Bali

Though only an island, Bali has innumerable activities that can be indulged in.

Don’t miss out on the many beautiful beaches here like those of Nusa Dua, Sanur and Kuta. You can laze around here.

Shop for exotic items made of wood, leather, carvings and stone. Bali is well known for its exquisite handicrafts, antiques, artifacts, stone carvings, paintings and masks. There are lots you can choose from.

Have fun tasting the many different dishes made out of the staple food of Bali – rice.

Go for submarine diving or take a walk in the ocean. If possible, try out white water rafting.

For the adventurous, bungee jumping and surfing are great options while those wanting an aerial view of all the exotic scenery can go for a helicopter ride.

Currency 

Foreign currencies can be easily exchanged here with ATMs available in most places.

Traveling in Bali 

Traveling in Bali is simple and uncomplicated. You can make use of buses, mini buses and bemos (actually a minibus or van with a row of low seats on either side) to move about within towns. Cars can also be hired and motorcycles used but do be wary when you are going alone as you need to be careful when you are on your own.

- Best Tourist Desniation -

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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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Coming to Washington DC to see Cherry Blossom

It is said that the ideal season for traveling to the capital Washington D.C of the USA is Spring (from March to May), or Autumn (from September to November).

However, to have the most wonderful and memorable trip to America, you should go in the beginning of Spring, when thousand of cherry blossom tree blooming. At that time, the weather is warmer by the sunglight. It is believed that the atmosphere in Washington DC is full of Spring with thousands of flower fragrancy, especially at the sunrise.

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Been to Seoul, Korea - a Charming Traveling Destination

With over 10 million people, a figure that doubles if you include neighboring cities and suburbs, Seoul is the largest city in South Korea and the unquestioned economic, political and cultural hub of the country. By some measures, it is the second largest urban agglomeration on the planet, after Greater Tokyo.

There is evidence for settlement in this area as far as 18 BC but Seoul as the capital city of South Korea has a history back to the 14th century. Seoul was the capital of Korea before its occupation by the Japanese and subsequent division following World War II. Since 1948, Seoul has been the capital of South Korea. Occupied twice during the Korean War by Communist forces, the city was extensively rebuilt and today is one of Asia's modern metropolises.

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Getting to Belgium from London: Plane, Train or Bus?

I’ve travelled to Belgium back and fourth a couple of times in the last month and each time I’ve done it differently depending on which is the cheapest option. The main ways to get to Belgium are by flying, taking the Eurostar or taking the bus. Before you travel, make sure you take a look at each method of transport to see which offers the best price and convenience for you.

1. Eurolines - The bus from Victoria coach station is often the cheapest option but the problem is the amount of time it takes to get there. Coaches depart daily from London to Brussels and other Belgian destinations including Antwerp, Liege, Bruges and Ghent, so if you don’t mind spending around 8 hours on a coach then it’s certainly the cheaper option. You don’t have to worry too much about baggage allowances because you’re allowed to take two medium sized suitcases and if you’re travelling from anywhere outside London, you can get a special rate connection fare on National Express coaches for as little as £15 return. Buses make refreshment stops, have reclining seats and on-board toilets. Return fares cost as little as £35 and the added advantage is the city centre to city centre service, meaning you’re dropped off right in the centre of the destination you’re travelling to.

2. Eurostar- The best thing about travelling on the Eurostar is that you get free onward train travel from Brussels Midi to any other Belgian station. It’s well worth it, so when you’re booking your ticket, make sure you select “any belgian station”. Check the Eurostar website regularly as it’s a bit like train fares- sometimes you can get a cheap deal on a ticket, and other times it’s rather expensive. The Eurostar departs from Kings Cross St. Pancras, which is an incredibly modern and trendy station with some great restaurants and cafés for eating. It’s incredibly quick and easy to get to Belgium-you can check in up to 30 minutes before departure and it only takes around two hours to get there! If you’re booking last minute you can select to print your boarding pass at home or collect your tickets at the station.

3. Plane- Check on the Easyjet and Ryanair websites for cheap flights from London and other UK airports to Brussels. Other budget airlines flying to Belgium include Jet2, bmi and flybe. If you’re looking to fly to an airport outside of Brussels, such as Antwerp, check out Air France and Brussels Airlines. I always check the Skyscanner website to check out the cheapest fares. The advantage of flying is that you can depart from an airport outside of London but the disadvantages are baggage allowances and getting to and from the airport. Remember that Ryanair flies to Brussels Charleroi, not the main Brussels Airport.

- Vitoria at Pommie Travel -

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Handbook Traveling - part 3 - Lost in a Jungle 2

In the first part of the article series "Handbook Traveling", I have already mentioned about how to deal with the problem of being lost in the jungle but nobody know to find you. I have suggested some ways that you can apply in order to find the best way to get out of the jungle maze. In this part, the situation is that you are lost and somebody figure it out and organize a search to find you; but it does not mean that you stay still and just wait for those people. Hence, what should you do??

>> Handbook Traveling - part 3 - Lost in a Jungle 1

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Redlight district - the famous place of Amsterdam

Redlight District is the most famous place of Amsterdam. This is the old quarter of the city, including many coffes shops, cafe bruns, and the red houses. Coffes shop is the trading and drug consumption place. Cafe Bruns (Brown cafes_ are typical pubs in Netherlands. Red houses are also the places for playboys, or luxurious customers/visitors.

 

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Madagascar - The most special island in the world

Forget Hollywood fripperies, Madagascar is like no place else on earth. In fact, all things considered, it barely qualifies as part of Africa: the two are separated by hundreds of kilometres of sea and 165 million years of evolution – long enough for Madagascar’s plants and animals to evolve into some of the weirdest forms on the planet. Nowhere else can you see over 70 varieties of lemur, including one that sounds like a police siren, the world’s biggest and smallest chameleons, and the last stomping ground of the elephant bird, the largest bird that ever lived. Near Ifaty in Southern Madagascar you will see forests of twisted, spiny ‘octopus’ trees and in the west, marvel at the bottle-shaped baobabs, especially the Avenue du Boabab near Morondava. And be on the look out for the carnivorous pitcher plant found around Ranomafana, there are over 60 varieties of them. Not for nothing is Madagascar regarded as the world’s number one conservation priority.

And the people are no less interesting: arriving here some 2000 years ago along the Indian Ocean trade routes, they grow rice in terraced paddies, and speak a language that has more in common with their origins in Southeast Asia than with the African continent. Their culture is steeped in taboo and magic, imbuing caves, waterfalls, animals and even some material objects with supernatural attributes. Hill peoples live in traditional multistoried brick houses with carved balconies and, in some areas, dance with their dead ancestors in the ‘turning of the bones’ ceremony.

Throw in a soupçon of pirate history, coastlines littered with shipwrecks, great regional cooking, some of the world’s longest place names, and unfailingly polite and friendly people, and you’ll experience a refreshing take on the overused ‘unique’ tag.

We’ve cherrypicked 5 unforgettable things to do in this truly unique place.

Trek the rainforest and take a hot tub

Parc National de Ranomafana is known for its hot springs and lemur-inhabited rainforest. Head out at dawn for a guided trek in search of the beautiful bamboo lemurs. Later, cross a spindly bridge over the village’s huge gushing river to find a line of hot tubs in little rooms. Once submerged in the piping hot water, you relax you instantly. Stay at the wonderfully friendly and low key La Palmerie hotel for home-cooked banana crepes drizzled in chocolate and the chance to meet Dadalira, an 106-year-old local man who has lived through the country’s most dramatic highs and lows.

Breakfast Malagasy style, and haute cuisine too

The French left a lasting impression when they colonized Madagascar. There are croissants everywhere. Dine Malagasy style at a hotely, one of the slightly dingy roadside establishments, serving up stacks of fried dough balls (mofobols) and super sweet coffee with condensed milk. Other choices will include deep-fried bananas and rice cakes. It’s hardly fine dining, but the people watching and hospitality make the experience priceless.

On the other end of the culinary scale, you’ll find La Varangue, a highly regarded restaurant in Antananarivo. Master chocolatier Lalaina Ravelomanana, who was recently voted among the world’s top five chefs has created a menu to die for, including a taster menu and mains such as grenadine zebu steak with apple cannelloni, a mystery item called explosion du chef and, of course, lots of lovely chocolate. Eat out on the veranda over looking the city or in the stylish interior decked with intriguing relics.

Simplicity and a lakeside safari

At Camp Bandro at Lac Alaotra, you can glide across the island’s largest lake in a dug out canoe at dawn in search of the gentle bamboo lemur or Bandro. As the sun comes up, your guide pushes through the thick reeds into what looks like planet Pandora. Papyrus shoots up around you, and the grey bamboo lemurs never fail to charm. It’s not easy to get here – it takes twelve hours in a minibus taxi on bad roads – but it’s worth it. The camp itself consists of two basic bungalows in stunning garden of roses and includes three delicious meals a day, a bucket shower and access to the lake every morning.

Meet Mother Nature’s most curious creatures

There are four national parks in Andasibe’s rich rainforest, so wherever you are, you can hear the eerie call of the island’s largest remaining lemur species, the Indri. Stride through the thick rain forest and look up to find the huge monochrome creatures high above your head. Spot fat, green Parson’s chameleons and the bizarre giraffe-necked weevil. Take to the quiet Mitsinjo forest for a night walk to hear the frog chorus and spot minute mouse lemurs. For a closer look, visit Vakona Lodge’s lemur island, a sanctuary for rescued lemurs that once lived in captivity.

Give something back

You’ll be struck by the hospitality of the Malagasy and also the poverty. Spend the day at Akany Avoko in Antananarivo – it’s home for around 120 homeless kids. As well as funding their education, the charity provides the children with craft workshops, where they can make bags, clothes and screenprint t-shirts; a garden to learn how to grow vegetables; cookery classes; career lessons and training in sustainable energy. You’ll be greeted by the English director, Steve Wilkinson, and get to wander round the school, meet the children, visit the craft shop, and have lunch in the cafe.

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