Showing posts with label tourism. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tourism. Show all posts

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Costa Rica, a Paradise for Eco-Tourism

Costa Rica, a Paradise for Eco-Tourism
Word Count:
721
Summary:
Description of Costa Rica, a great place for eco-tourism with lots to see and do.

Keywords:
costa, rica, eco, tourism, travel, central, america, latin, jungle, rain, forest, scuba, diving, san, jose, volcano, arenal

Article Body:
For those who would like a destination for eco-tourism, Costa Rica is hard to beat.  For a little country in Central America that’s only 19,730 square miles, there’s definitely a lot to see and do there.  Costa Rica means ‘rich coast’ in Spanish, which is the country’s official language.  Located between Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south, Costa Rica is one of the most stable and prosperous of all Latin American countries.  There are tropical beach resorts on both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of the country for sun vacationers but the main attraction of Costa Rica is the eco-tourism.  For example, there is a wider variety of bird species in Costa Rica alone than in all of Europe and North America.
Surprisingly, there are diverse eco-systems and microclimates within Costa Rica.  In addition to the coastal beaches, there are dense jungles and rain forests with a wide variety of fauna.  Some of these forests are referred to as cloud forests because of the moisture of the mists that linger among the trees in some parts.  One forest has a cable car set up so that tourists can observe the plant and animal life at the treetop levels.  For the more adventurous types, there is a place where one can swing from tree to tree using a network of rope attachments.  There are also dry forests as well as colder barren volcanic tundras.  Quite extreme changes in microclimate can be observed even within 30 minutes of travel.  Some parts of the country have canal systems similar to those found in the Amazon and a few rivers offer excellent white water rafting. 
There are several volcanoes within the country and the extinct ones are easily accessible since they are tourist attractions.  A few have beautiful turquoise color lakes that have formed in the craters at the top of such volcanoes.  One of the more famous active volcanoes is Arenal where visitors can safely watch the eruptions from a nearby facility that has outdoor hot springs naturally heated by the mountain.
In addition to the many different birds that can be sighted, there is a wide number of other exotic wildlife including monkeys, sloths, jaguars, bats and reptiles that can be seen during one of the many available nature tours.  Every year, there are sea turtles that come to certain beaches to nest and this event attracts many nature lovers.  The wildlife in Costa Rica is not only rich on land or the air but also in the surrounding oceans.  For scuba divers, Costa Rica offers excellent diving opportunities and they are quite different from the waters in the Caribbean.  The higher amounts of plankton in the local seas attract more numbers of large marine animals than can be found in the Caribbean.
Coffee and bananas are some of the main exports for Costa Rica.  For coffee lovers, this is the place to sample some of the best in the world although it should be warned that the locals like their coffee quite strong.  Tours in the valleys will often go past numerous coffee plantations. 
Most tourists will fly into the capital city of San Jose.  Although there is some nice colonial architecture to see in San Jose, it’s not one of the nicer places to stay in Costa Rica.  The city is noisy and polluted but relatively safe.  One can use San Jose as a base for many day trips to the various rain forests, volcanoes and beaches.  Travelers can also fly into Liberia which is a town in the north part of the country.  This is a much quieter region and close to many of the northern resorts.  One option that many travelers take is to rent a vehicle and tour the country on their own.  However, the roads of Costa Rica are not the best with lots of potholes and mudslides are common during the wet season from June to November.  If renting a vehicle, a 4x4 is definitely recommended.
There is so much to see and do in Costa Rica that many visitors return to see parts of the country that they missed before.  The country is easily the most popular destination to visit in Central America.  Costa Rica now has tourist offices set up in North America for those who want further information.

Sunday, March 13, 2011

Corinth - uniting Peloponnese to Greece's mainland

Corinth - uniting Peloponnese to Greece's mainland
Word Count:
352
Summary:
The city of Corinth is geographically located in a narrow land area, known as the Isthmus of Corinth, which connects the region of Peloponnese to the mainland of Greece.

Keywords:
europe. greece, travel, vacation, holiday, tourism

Article Body:
The city of Corinth is geographically located in a narrow land area, known as the Isthmus of Corinth, which connects the region of Peloponnese to the mainland of Greece. The Isthmus of Greece, which was formerly used for the transportation of ships, is nowadays cut by a canal which is used for the purposes by which the isthmus was used before.
Corinth is the capital of Corinthia, a prefecture which belongs to the Greek region of the Peloponnese. Towards the western area of the city and the isthmus there is the gulf of Corinth, towards the east there is the Sacronic Gulf, and towards the south west, at about 50 miles, there is Athens. Besides this, there are several small islands or islets surrounding Corinth: Kechries, Lechaio, Isthmia, Ancient Corinth, and Examilia.
The city of Corinth has gone through several different époques as well as it has had a variety of denominations. One of the first denominations it had was Korinthos, but this name would change depending on different invaders and on who was in control of the town at different given periods.
The origins of Corinth date from as long ago as the 6th century BC, in the Neolithic Age. According to some discoveries, during the year 2000 BC, the city was almost entirely destroyed. Next in the town's history, another important event happened during the Mycenean period, when the Dorians tried to invade and take the control over the town. The Dorians failed the first time, but succeeded after trying again, and settled in Corinth for a while.
Nowadays, an important part of the old city of Corinth can not be visited anymore due to the fact that it was partially destroyed by an earthquake towards the last years of the decade of 1850. Despite of this, there still are many interesting historical spots that visitors can meet in the city and its surroundings, as well as a variety of entertaining things to do. Corinth, as well as the entire prefecture of Corinthia, is a very attractive Greek destination which combines an amazing historical past with modern life in a unique way.

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Barcelona Spain - So Much Fun In One Day

Barcelona Spain - So Much Fun In One Day
Word Count:
905
Summary:
The city of Barcelona, Spain, as all the Iberian Peninsula, has been clearly marked by its long history which dates to the Roman times. But what really left a deep impression and can still be fully appreciated today is what the Arabs left behind. Not only can you awe at the lovely cathedrals, temples and other buildings but you can feel it in the powerful, brave character of the people in Catalunya. The cities of Lleida, Girona, Tarragona and Barcelona make up the region call...

Keywords:
barcelona,spain,hotels,tourism,map,beach,rambla,airport,weather,travel

Article Body:
The city of Barcelona, Spain, as all the Iberian Peninsula, has been clearly marked by its long history which dates to the Roman times. But what really left a deep impression and can still be fully appreciated today is what the Arabs left behind. Not only can you awe at the lovely cathedrals, temples and other buildings but you can feel it in the powerful, brave character of the people in Catalunya. The cities of Lleida, Girona, Tarragona and Barcelona make up the region called Catalunya and with it an extensive shore line which starts at the French border and goes mid-way down the Mediterranean until the Community of Valencia.
Having so much coast, Barcelona has not only been able to captivate tourism in the summer with excellent beach resorts, hotels and water sports, but also thanks to its cultural and architectural activities. One of the most outstanding sights that everyone wants to see when traveling to Barcelona is the Sacred Family or as many people know it even though they do not speak Spanish is the famous Sagrada Familia at the Placa de la Sagrada Square. Antonio Gaudi, a renowned architect started to build a church for the needy in 1883. He, together with other architects, worked on this project which was supported by donations from those who cared. In 1898 he decided that he wanted his masterpiece to one of the most original known up until then and changed the typical bell towers which were always square to be rounded off. He also added the Swiss cheese appearance to them. By around 1923, the chapel called Saint Joseph, the east facing and the crypt had been completed. It had been worked on vigorously up until Gaudi died in 1926 and therefore buried in the crypt designed by him. Since then all the bell towers and other parts have been completed but it still has not been finished. But all around the city you can find gaudi´s works: La Pedrera, Mila House, and the park Guell. But The Sagrada Familia is still one of the most impressive pieces of architecture ever seen.
A city full of Museums and Attractions
But if you are looking for more strong emotions, then head over to the Picasso Museum. This museum is shared between five medieval palaces which contain a nice overall view of his different fazes. Therefore, it lets you travel from Malaga which was his home town to Paris, so well reflected in his paintings, to Russia and his captivating detailed ballet paintings and finally to Barcelona where he settled. This is an absolute must and even more interesting is that it costs so little, has long visiting hours to let you roam about, great public transport combinations and is found in the Cuitat Vella Parc. The Ciutat Vella ( the beautiful city ), was once the entire city of Barcelona until the end of the 14th century and was the principal and only surviving zones made up of four areas: The Gothic Neighbourhood, La Ribera, Las Ramblas ( flowered promenade ) and the Raval. It is so easy to find and get there because there are four distinctive landmarks that lead us by the hand as if it were a famous framed picture. Using the Catalunya Square as its left frontier, you go straight down Las Ramblas Street until you see the impressive Christopher Columbus Monument towering over you as soon as you reach the edge of the port. Leisurely strolling towards the north in the direction of the Olympic Port you come across the Cuitadella Park. At this point turn left to feast your eyes on the emotive Arch of Triumph some blocks away. Within this enclosed circle of narrow cobblestone streets and typically set up shops, you are wrapped up in living history.
It does not matter if you are an avid Barcelona Football ( Soccer ) fan and know that this team is usually called ´Barca´, or just a visitor who wants to enjoy a good match, do not forget to pass by the Nou Camp football stadium to reserve or buy your tickets. Football season is usually between September and May. This year Fran Rikard has led the Barca to win the Spanish Football League so there will be a lot of celebrations and neat souvenirs to buy.

The Costa Brava and Costa Dorada, as this area is referred to, has clean cared for beaches and caters to the tourist both inside the city as well as on the outskirts with a wide selection of accomodations. There chalets, semi-detached homes and apartments for rent or all kinds of hotels starting from a simple youth hostel, passing through a bed and breakfast type lodging to three, four and five star hotels. Whether you are going to be in Barcelona for a romantic honeymoon, just a quick weekend get away, family holidays or a business trip, you can enjoy yourself in one way or another.
You will never be bored because the information available on Barcelona can be easily found on the net, through travel agencies, or going directly to a tourist information booth when you arrive at the airport. This information is offered to you in many different languages and is usually free. It provides the traveler with precise information about museums and other monuments ( their prices and hours ), temporary exhibitions, banks, entertainment, restaurants and shopping areas, the sorts of hotels and where they are all located on very simple maps.

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Amorgos and its history

Amorgos and its history
Word Count:
350
Summary:
Amorgos is one of the most visited islands in the Cyclades of Greece.

Keywords:
europe, greece, travel, vacation, holiday, tourism

Article Body:
Amorgos is one of the most visited islands in the Cyclades of Greece. This island has a size of about 120 km2 and inhabited by around 1800 people can be found at the east of the Cyclades, next to Dodecanese. Anciently called Minoa, the origins of this city and its population can be found strongly attached to the Cretans who are believed to be the first inhabitants in this island.
The island of Amorgos counts with a very rich and interesting past, and therefore all those who enjoy historic spots would be able to have a great time while visiting it. Many centuries ago, Amorgos was used by the Ionians in order to go from their islands to mainland Greece. Many constructions and elements from such époque can be still observed nowadays since was important in shaping the island's culture and traditions.
Three of the main and most antique cities in Amorgos can also be still visited nowadays. These three cities are Militos, Efessos, and Alikarnasos and also are strongly attached to the époque in which the Ionians used to go through this island in order to reach mainland Greece in such a way that each one of them can tell a bit of the history of those days. These three cities count with the peculiarity of being autonomous although they share a same currency and have many other aspects in common as well.
The city of Arkesini, one of the main spots in Amorgos, contains several appealing and unique characteristics. One of these interesting characteristics tourists could find in Arkesini is the antique walls that surround it and which were part of many important historical events.
It is also interesting to know that the island of Amorgos has received many different names throughout its history, and still, nowadays, it receives a variety of denominations. Among the names tourists could find Amorgos is called nowadays, there is the name of Pagali, Psichia, Patagy, Yperia, and Karkisia. This way, tourists should not be surprised or confused when they hear, read or see any of those names in reference to the town of Amorgos.

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Amorgos and its history

Amorgos and its history
Word Count:
350
Summary:
Amorgos is one of the most visited islands in the Cyclades of Greece.

Keywords:
europe, greece, travel, vacation, holiday, tourism

Article Body:
Amorgos is one of the most visited islands in the Cyclades of Greece. This island has a size of about 120 km2 and inhabited by around 1800 people can be found at the east of the Cyclades, next to Dodecanese. Anciently called Minoa, the origins of this city and its population can be found strongly attached to the Cretans who are believed to be the first inhabitants in this island.
The island of Amorgos counts with a very rich and interesting past, and therefore all those who enjoy historic spots would be able to have a great time while visiting it. Many centuries ago, Amorgos was used by the Ionians in order to go from their islands to mainland Greece. Many constructions and elements from such époque can be still observed nowadays since was important in shaping the island's culture and traditions.
Three of the main and most antique cities in Amorgos can also be still visited nowadays. These three cities are Militos, Efessos, and Alikarnasos and also are strongly attached to the époque in which the Ionians used to go through this island in order to reach mainland Greece in such a way that each one of them can tell a bit of the history of those days. These three cities count with the peculiarity of being autonomous although they share a same currency and have many other aspects in common as well.
The city of Arkesini, one of the main spots in Amorgos, contains several appealing and unique characteristics. One of these interesting characteristics tourists could find in Arkesini is the antique walls that surround it and which were part of many important historical events.
It is also interesting to know that the island of Amorgos has received many different names throughout its history, and still, nowadays, it receives a variety of denominations. Among the names tourists could find Amorgos is called nowadays, there is the name of Pagali, Psichia, Patagy, Yperia, and Karkisia. This way, tourists should not be surprised or confused when they hear, read or see any of those names in reference to the town of Amorgos.

Monday, December 6, 2010

A Quick History of Sydney for Prospective Travelers

A Quick History of Sydney for Prospective Travelers
Word Count:
524
Summary:
Sydney is a city full of rich history that any traveler would like to discover for themselves. It is an ideal vacation destination for those travelers that want a sense of history and development as well as great weather and nearby activities.

Keywords:
sydney, travel, sydney history, holiday, vacation, trips to australia, airfares, cheap flights, travel guide, tourism, travel itinerary, discount flights, web fares, tourist attractions, tourism NSW, NSW

Article Body:
Copyright 2006 Tom Dinic
As the state capital of New South Wales (http://www.visitnsw.com.au/) in Australia, Sydney is certainly full of rich history that any traveler would like to discover for themselves.  Established in 1788 when Briton Arthur Phillip claimed Australia for England, Sydney has grown to be one of the more famous cities in the world, boasting over four million people for the population.
Situated along the Sydney Harbor, Sydney is known as the ‘Harbor City’ in which travelers and residents can enjoy such sights as the Sydney Opera House and Harbor Bridge.  A previous host of the Summer Olympics, Sydney is certainly creating a destination for the travelers of today and the future.
The indigenous Australians (http://www.dreamtime.net.au/) once roamed the lands of Sydney and the surrounding areas for approximately thirty thousand years.  And while their numbers dwindled before the arrival of Arthur Phillips, they still inhabited the area and made their homes in the region.
In the past, there were three different languages spoken in Sydney: Darug, Dharawal, and Guringai.  Many of these languages also have separate dialects for various tribes and clans.  These languages are all but gone now, but rock carvings remain to tell the stories of these ancient peoples.
In 1770, James Cook was the first to see Australia and note its existence.  This led to the British convict settlement as founded by Arthur Phillip.  Founded in Sydney Cove, this settlement was named after the British home secretary.  A few years later in 1789, a virulent disease spread over the land, killing the indigenous populations—many believe that this was the result of smallpox.
By 1820, there were few aborigines left and the period of civilization began: the education and Christianization of the natives.  With the leadership of Governor Macquarie, the city of Sydney began to take a more organized form.  Roads and wharves were constructed and local development was rapid.  People began arriving from Britain and Ireland in order to find a new life for themselves.
This influx of people led to some of the first villages and later towns in Sydney.  As the era of gold rushes came and went, the development of suburbs and improved transportation also blossomed.  The construction of railways and tramways in the nineteenth century aided this rapid development.  By the twentieth century, Sydney already had a population of over a million people.  While the Great Depression hit Sydney hard, the Harbor Bridge (http://www.sydney.visitorsbureau.com.au/page2-03g.html)  was still completed during that time.
With the second highest immigrant population of any larger world city, Sydney is an interesting mix of culture and expression.  In fact, forty-five percent of the population is said to be migrants of some relation.  This makes for a different feeling in the city—one of acceptance and sharing, rather than segregation.
This allows Sydney to be an ideal vacation destination for those travelers that want a sense of history and development as well as great weather and nearby activities.  Sydney is more than a vacation hotspot; it’s where time has shown that anything can be achieved with patience and hard work.