Explore Marrakech Morocco

Marrakech is a colourful, enchanting city of contrasts, allowing visitors to immerse themselves into the vibrant traditional atmosphere of the Medina, tour the palaces and mosques, take shade in the elegant gardens, and enjoy the modern amenities of Ville Nouvelle.



Djemaa El Fna:
There are few places on earth as exotic, or as strange, as Djemaa el Fna (Place of the Dead), the busiest square on the entire African continent, and much of the reason why travellers have been lured to Morocco for centuries. At any time of day there is something beguiling occurring on this public square, where wealthy sultans once beheaded enemies and criminals. Snake charmers, musicians, palm readers, gypsies, bedouins, dentists, men selling dried animal parts for potions, and an endless array of colours mix in a swirling rhythm of energy.

Wander around and soak up the atmosphere, or stop off at one of the stalls to sample harira soup, couscous, tripe, tajine, freshly squeezed orange juice, dried fruits or tea. For a great view and a chance to escape the hustle and bustle try one of the rooftop cafes overlooking the square, where you can relax with a cup of mint tea and enjoy the spectacle.

Koutobia Mosque:
Named after a bazaar of booksellers that once stood nearby, the Koutobia Mosque is one of the most stunning pieces of architecture you will find in Morocco. The mosque was constructed in the early 12th century by Almohad Sultan Abdel Moumen, and is topped by three golden orbs, offered, according to legend, by the sultan's mother as penance for missed fasting days during Ramadan. The red brick minaret stands approximately 70m high, and can clearly be seen from all points of the city. If you think the mosque looks vaguely familiar, it may be because it was used as a model for the Hassan Tower in Rabat and the Giralda in Seville.

Jardin Majorelle:
Majorelle botanical garden, owned by French fashion designer Yves Saint-Laurent since 1980, is quite stunning and offers a wonderful break from the otherwise dry, dusty cityscape - it is an oasis in the city if ever there was one. The blue hues, lush green plants from five continents, and small lily strewn ponds show a side of Morocco that you shouldn't miss. Designed by the expatriate French artist Jacques Majorelle in 1924, the shade of bold cobalt blue which he used extensively in the garden, and on the studio walls is named after him, Majorelle bleu.


Bahia Palace:
The Bahia (meaning "brilliance") Palace was built in the late 19th century by Si Moussa, Grand Vizier of the Sultan, also known as Abu Ahmed, a black slave who rose to power and enormous wealth. With plans to create the most magnificent palace of its time, Ahmed commissioned craftsmen from Fez to design the ornate building for him and his favourites concubines. Blending Moroccan and Islamic styles, the buildings are highly decorative and elaborate - arguably too much so for most modern tastes. A central, two-acre garden is surrounded by rooms intended for his concubines and is one of the highlights of a tour.

Menara Gardens:
Containing centuries-old olive groves and palm trees, the country retreat of Menara Gardens is an ideal place to flee the chaos of the city. To this day the original underground canals innovatively irrigate the 30,000 plus olive trees. Replacing older buildings from the 16th century, the current pavilion was rebuilt for Moulay Sulieman in the early 19th century and has a stylised European appearance, with arched openings and faux red bricks trimming them.

Saadian Tombs:

Situated in the north-west of the Kasbah, the beautiful Saadian Tombs date back to the mid 1500's and feature stunning coloured tile work, intricate carvings and grand marble pillars. Sultan Ahmed Al-Mansour, who ordered the construction of the mausoleum complex, was also the first to be buried there, and his tomb, not surprisingly, is one of the most ornate. The tombs were sealed in the early 1700's and nearly forgotten until 1917 when they were reopened.

Medersa Ben Youssef:
This medersa (Koranic school) was built in 1565 for Sultan Moulay Abdullah el-Ghalib of the Saadians and was the largest in Marrakech with several hundred teachers and students. In its heyday it was the preeminent medersa in Marrakech, but it was closed in 1960 and is now open solely for visitors. The complex is centred on a lovely courtyard, with a fountain and reflecting basin. The walls and doorways are ornately decorated in a variety of materials: look out in particular for the fine prayer hall containing the mihrab (prayer niche).

The Medina:
The ancient quarter of Marrakech inside the city walls is where most of the population resides and the major reason for its nickname "the red city". The 16km-long city walls and over 200 towers that circle the Medina all have a reddish hue that has become one of the city's defining characteristics.

The sprawling maze containing many souks follows the most traditional way of life, and its thick high walls conceal many treasures. Plain fronted doorways open out into pretty courtyards, revealing beautiful riads, restaurants and shops. Without question, the Medina is the most interesting part of the city. If you get lost, you can always pay a child to lead you out.

Ville Nouvelle:
Also known as the modern city and Gueliz, this section of town to the west of the Medina is filled with wide boulevards, modern shops, business amenities, hotels and restaurants. Though not nearly as atmospheric as the old town, it has its own charms and is a good place to stay. Being modern, it has a more international feel to it than the rest of the city, and is thus popular with expats and wealthy Moroccan business people.

Accra - The Paradise of Africa

Accra is the capital city of Ghana and its named is derived from the word "Nkran" which means "ants". It is interesting but peculiar at the same time that how can a big cosmopolitan be named after tiny insects.

The people from Ghana tribe were the first to settle in Accra. They migrated from their early settlement which was at Ayawaso. According to the Ghanaa people, Accra was a perfect site for starting a new colonization as they never had an opportunity to flourish back in their original settlement due to their rivals, Akawamu people. 

At the beginning, Accra’s economy was not as prosperous as it should have been. It did not have a prominent trading center but the early settlers lived a better life. Ports at Prampram, Ada, Dodowa and Akusa were well-known in the region. Nonetheless, Accra became a popular slave trade center amongst the Europeans who has established forts near the city. These forts were Ussher Fort and James Fort. However, the area became a popular slave trade center until 1807 when the slave trade ended. By the end of 17th century, the city saw a great change as the foreigners include Danish, British, French, Dutch, Swedish and Portuguese settled and built forts in the town.

In 1928, Accra saw a drastic change in its economy as it became the main exporter of cocoa. Another influential factor about the city was the good water pipeline system which, as a result, brought in many migrants. In the 20th century, the city saw development which strengthened its roots in Ghana making it one of the significant destinations. The city saw even more prosperity under the rule of Sir Frederick Gordon Guggisberg. He introduced several reforms, built bridge athwart the Korle Lagoon and established schools and hospitals. The city today provides a good living standard compelling a large number of migrants to board Accra flights.

Currently, Accra is one of the tourists’ destinations in Ghana. Some of the main attractions in the city include the National Museum of Ghana, the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences, the National Archives of Ghana and many more. Tourists who grab cheap flights to Accra also admire touring Ghana's central library, the National Theatre, Accra Centre for National Culture, a lighthouse and the National Sports Stadium.

Visit Ireland

Ireland is an island and the 3rd largest in Europe. Ireland is a heaven for tourists with its breath taking natural scenes and some interesting ancient buildings. To spend holidays in Ireland is the dream of every tourist.

Dublin is the capital of Ireland and is the most visited tourist destination in Ireland. The Dublin Castle is as old as 1204 AD and has some historical significance. The Spire of Dublin is a monument and is 398 ft tall. The top of the monument is lit and it seems like a beacon of light in the dark sky.

Achill Island in Ireland is a stunning island with natural beauty. The cliffs of Croaghaun are the third highest sea cliffs in Europe. The mountain Slievemore in Achill Island is quite interesting as it rises unexpectedly from the relatively plain area. The mountain has an abandoned village.

Stately homes, the grand residential buildings for the royals, were built in Ireland in 17th, 18th and 19th century. Some of them are Castle Ward, Castletown House etc are also famous tourist attractions. Some of these grand places are converted into Five Star Luxury Hotels.

There are three world heritage sites in Ireland.
1. Brú na Bóinne is a combination of tombs, standing stones and henges. Some of them are as old as 32 BC.
2. Skellig Michael aka Great Skellig, is a rare kind of rocky island in the Atlantic Ocean about 9 miles from the cost of Ireland. For six hundred years, the island has been the home of monastic life for Christian monks.
3. The Giant's Causeway is famous for 40,000 connected unique rocks called the basalt columns. This creation is due to some volcanic activity in ancient times.

There are several places to visit in Ireland but County Kerry of Ireland is the most attractive and scenic area in Ireland, as it has a lot of mountains and lakes. Kerry is one of the most popular tourist destinations. The Ross castle of Kerry was built in 15th century and stands today to be a tourist attraction. The Rings of Kerry is a trail for tourists and is as long as 179km. It sports beautiful scenes. Muckross house is a lavish mansion that was built in 1843 for a wealthy couple. It is a beautiful building.The famous killarney towers hotel is also in Kerry.
The Fenit Harbor in Kerry is a very busy port and it is used for many commercial purposes like fishing and trade.

The harbor is under the Irish State. The Fenit Harbor has been an old and traditional port and was used for landing timber, coal, grain etc. The port was also famous for its fish production but now it is not so and the fishing industry has been closed. It is due to the competition from bigger groups around the Europe and also due to the restrictions from the European Union. Samphire Island in Kerry is quite an attraction. A light house is built on the island. The island also sports the sculpture of Saint Brendan. This was made in 2004.

The Tourist Attractions in Mexico

Mexico provides about five thousand miles of incredible coastline and draws in large amounts of vacationers. The most popular spots to go to usually are spread along the gorgeous Caribbean and Pacific coastlines. I'll describe the most impressive areas to travel to.

Heading to the Yucatan Peninsula: The most famous place for holidays inside Mexico is the spectacular Yucatan peninsula. The Yucatan is situated in the eastern section of Mexico. It can provide access to the impressive tourist towns of Isla Mujures, Play del Sol, Isla Holbox and the beautiful island of Cozumel. The Yucatan is very well known for it's gorgeous, light beach destinations, hot weather conditions and ancient Mayan temples. The coast of the Yucatan Peninsula sits in the famous district of Quintana Roo, which includes an endless amount of miles of really good shoreline filled up with luxurious hotel accommodations, magnificent shorelines, spectacular Mexican cuisine and an excellent climate.


Exploring Cancun: The coastal town of Cancun is considered to be the main vacation place within Mexico and staying in Cancun is a beautiful experience. Perceived by a number of visitors to be the ultimate beach front resort in all of Mexico. The place is world famous for it's terrific shoreline and very clear sea, the region provides a number of different activities for tourists who would like to do much more than merely relaxing on the beach.

Going to see Cozumel: Cozumel island is found a few miles of the shoreline of the Riviera Maya. Cozumel island will provide popular beach destinations and also a peaceful setting. Going diving is a really popular activity on this island destination.

Seeing the Riviera Maya: The exquisite Maya Riviera will provide tons of beach destinations and sightseeing. The Riviera Maya is found south from Puerto Morales. This area is known for it's impressive shorelines and care free natural environment. You'll come across impressive deep sea diving experiences. You can find other sorts of interesting attractions for example going to see historical structures. The Mayans constructed enormous settlements in this part of Mexico have been undisturbed for many hundreds of years.

Going to see Puerto Vallarta: Great beaches, fantastic climatic conditions and large amounts of activities tends to make Puerto Vallarta a good destination. Prominent activities include going to the spectacular Bay of Banderas and also going on tours through the local tropical jungles on horseback. Additionally, Puerto Vallarta is a vicinity of Mexico that's attracted a variety of proffessional artists and is also well known for it's art.

Seeing Los Cabos: To numerous holidaymakers, Los Cabos is the most popular spot located in Mexico. Cabo San Lucas consists of outstanding shores and various activities including playing golf, reef fishing, plus a great nightlife. All of this tends to make Los Cabos an impressive spot for a considerable number of tourists.

Going to Morelia: Morelia is complete with marvelous structures, fascinating plazas, and even lovely courtyards. A large amount of vacation goers consider this city to be the most gorgeous destination here in Mexico. Morelia is over six hundred years old and has got a lot of Spanish architectures.

Going to Chichén Itzá: The historical temples found in Mexico are beautiful. The ancient remains of Chichen Itzá are definitely the most renowned Mayan ruins inside Mexico. It really is regarded as being the best Mayan center inside of the Mexican Yucatan. Be patient when sight seeing around Chichén Itzá, seeing as the place is one of the several regions of the ancient Mayan world. Make sure to take a look at the Great Pyramid as well as the Mayan star observatory..

The 10 most beautiful islands in the world

The 10 most beautiful islands in response to the images they evoke, the views of the tourists themselves, the trips and here are the list:

01 .- Bora Bora is the perfect image of what we all consider an exotic island
paradise. Beaches with clear water, clean sand, coral,calm and relax ...
 
02 .- Easter Island: Perhaps your choice is based on the mystery of the famous moaipopulate the island. His enigmatic mission has become an island remembered by all that even chose to be elected New Wonder of the World. 



03 .- La Reunion Island: an island of contrasts, with exotic woods, but with volcanoesassets inside, with beaches and the scenery is always inviting the Indian Ocean. 



04 .- Bali: of course, could not miss. Sure you hear the name just think of exoticdancers, in the ribbons of flowers around their necks, in Balinese music, on the beaches long and wide, in the rice fields dotting the landscape and of course, in their oriental temples. 



05 .- Ko Samui, in Thailand. It is an island that retains its charm because it is not yettourist. We almost dare to say that the charm of the virgin islands and isolated. 



06 .- Santorini, Greece. Oh, sunrise on Santorini. It is one of the most beautiful world. In the Cyclades, Santorini is an outbreak of white foam in the middle of a vast blue sea, deep blue as can be seen rarely, and with less blue sky, which is turns orange when sunrise and sunset. It's an oil, a box that explodes with color and flavor Traditional Greek. 

07 .- La Digue, Seychelles Islands. All we know by the name of the group of islands:Seychelles, but La Digue is the island known.This group of islands is one of the mostrequested by tourists. 

08 .- Capri, Italy. It is the perfect image of the typical Mediterranean island located off the coast of Naples. An historic island where we can enjoy not only its past but also its natural wonders such as the Blue Grotto. 



09 .- Galapagos Islands. For wildlife lovers, Galapagos represents a whole mapprehistoric animal. Apart from its spectacular seabed, also it is great for the turtles, iguanas and sea lions. 





10 .- Djerba, Tunisia. We could not miss another one of those islands capable of mixing the Mediterranean style with Arabic. Djerba is known for its palm trees, olive trees and their homes and those typical Tunisian rural mosques deep blue.

Phu Quoc – the largest island of Vietnam

Phu Quoc Island is situated in the Gulf of Thailand. Located off the southern coast of Vietnam and Cambodia, it is the largest island in Vietnam.

The 48 km long and 28 km wide island is closer to the Cambodian mainland than Vietnam. Phu Quoc Island forms a triangular shape and to the west of it is the Long Beach, the longest beach of the island.


Most of the accommodations in the island are along this beach. There are other varied accommodations available throughout the island ranging from cheap bungalows to beach resorts. Duong Dong is the largest town in Phu Quoc Island situated to the north of the Long Beach.

Even a few years back Phu Quoc was known for its fish sauce. Today it is known as one of the major Vietnam popular destinations.

During the colonial rule of the French and the war with America Phu Quoc Island was used as a prison. Ruins of the prison are visible even today. After Vietnam gained independence in 1975 this island was used as a re-education camp.

Nearly half the island lets you view the unspoilt beauty of nature. Phu Quoc Island is covered with forests and the beaches are deserted creating an enchanting environment in the island. It provides a spectacular view with the perfect fusion of its blue waters, sandy beaches, and beautiful landscapes. In a visit to the island do not forget to view the magical sunset from the beach. The famous beaches in the island, other than the Long Beach, are Bai Dan and Bai Sao. Away from the beaches are the pepper fields, the rain forest, and the Suoi Da Ban river with its waterfalls.

How to get there?

Phu Quoc Island, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam, can be reached by both air and boat. It is less than an hour’s journey by plane from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam to Duong Dong.

Vietnam Airlines make nearly four trips to the island everyday. Flights are available from Mekong Delta, Vietnam as well.

A ferry ride can be taken from the Rach Gia to the island. It takes around two and a half hours though it is better to avoid the ferry in rainy seasons.

Brisbane - Australia

Brisbane may be the third largest city in Australia, but is also one of the most underrated - and unfairly so. But although not regarded in such high esteem as its more popular cousins Sydney and Melbourne, Brisbane is not without its charms. Generally, Brisbane is a sleepy little town with friendly and hospitable locals and world class facilities and services. There has been an increased interest in the city in recent years, awakening the city from its slumber to become one of the most desirable places to live in Australia.

Even though foreigners have just recently seen the city's potential, locals have for a long time known their hometown has something special. A peaceful lifestyle, idyllic, laid-back atmosphere and high standard of living have locals relishing in the beauty and tranquility of the city. But even with the city fast transforming into a traditional urban hub, it remains as laid-back, friendly and charming as ever.


Accommodation


Brisbane offers a host of accommodation options to suit even the most discerning guest. Brisbane accommodation caters to all, from corporate executives in town on business, to laid back holiday makers.


There is an impressive range of hotels, motels, guest houses, self catering accommodations, backpacker hostels, apartments and B&B's to cater to all needs and budgets. Choose convenient accommodation in the city, or more tranquil lodging in the suburbs or more remote areas of the city. Brisbane is home to a variety of world class tourist hotels, all ideally situated close to the most popular attractions of the city. These hotels are geared towards offering tourists a world class experience in the city.


Brisbane may not be as well known as Melbourne or Sydney, but the city is home to some world class tourist experiences that are well worth the visit.


Attractions:


Alma Park Zoo - This pleasant family friendly destination is situated thirty minutes north of the city center.


Brisbane City Hall and King George Square - This is one of the most significant historical landmarks in Brisbane. City Hall also hosts free concerts throughout the year.


City Botanic Gardens - The Botanic Gardens is about a 10 minute walk from the city center. Here you can view a range of flora and enjoy pleasant walking and cycling tracks.

CityCat - The CityCat are river taxis that run up and down the river. This is a great and affordable way to discover the city at a peaceful pace.


Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary - This is the world's first and largest koala sanctuary, and is home to over 130 koalas. Play with an adorable koala, feed a kangaroo and view various other wildlife that makes this area its home.


Manly Boat Harbour - Manly Boat Harbour is located just 20 minutes from the city centre and the gateway to Moreton Bay Marine Park. Manly Harbour Village offers a variety of dining and shopping options, all overlooking the beautiful marina.


Mt Coot-ha - This is the tallest mountain in Brisbane, but ironically not actually a mountain in the first place. It is a popular look-out point for loving couples and teens across the city. It boasts a great view as well as a food cafe and restaurants. Here you will also find the Botanical Gardens and Planetarium.


Museum of Brisbane - This museum is situated in King George's square and features exhibits about the history of the city, as well as exhibitions of local artists.


Roma Street Parklands - Boasting 1800 unique plant species, Roma Street Parklands is the world largest subtropical garden within a city centre.


South bank - This is quite a recent development and lies across the Brisbane River. It features an artificial beach ideal for family day trips and is surrounded by restaurants, shops, and cafes. South bank is also a popular venue for live events and movies.


University of Queensland - The University of Queensland is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Australia.


Wheel of Brisbane - This is a large Ferris Wheel offering you a 60 metre view of the Brisbane River. Enjoy a fifteen minute ride in this enclosed, climate controlled gondola.


Activities:


Kangaroo Point - This is a popular spot for rock climbers and boasts wonderful views across the skyline. Other activities include abseiling, kayaking, rollerblading and bicycle riding. Barbecue and picnic facilities are also available.


Story Bridge Adventure Club - Here visitors can enjoy breathtaking views over Brisbane, the mountain ranges and Moreton Bay Islands.


Jan Powers Farmers Markets - Purchase the freshest fruit, crispiest vegetables and leanest meat from the many world class farmers markets across the city.


Ballooning - Imagine gently floating over the city, enjoying exclusive aerial views without interruption. Sail over Brisbane from the comfort and safety of a hot air balloon, and catch a glimpse of the spectacular


Glasshouse Mountains, the Gold Coast and the islands of Moreton Bay.


Cruise on the Brisbane River - There are numerous river cruise tours available on the Brisbane River.


Explore the city from a new perspective from the comfort of a bobbing river boat.


Live music - Brisbane has been known for its lively music scene, and has been named a music hot spot by Billboard magazine.


Moreton Bay and islands - The popular Moreton Bay offers an idyllic escape where you can enjoy many activities. Try sand tobogganing, four-wheel driving, diving or snorkelling or marine watching.