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Travel – Lethem – A town in the border area of Guyana

Traveller — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 19:38:52 +0000

Lethem is a town located in the border area in Guyana, situated in the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo Region of the South American Country. It was named after the Governor of British Guiana, Sir Gordon James Lethem. He was governor from 1946 to 12 April 1947. It is on the Takatu River that borders with Brazil and is opposite to the town of Bonfim. It is the capital of Region 9 and links to Georgetown villages. The Takutu River has a bridge known as the Takutu River Bridge and links the two countries. This bridge brings Brazilian goods to Georgetown harbor; a link between northern Brazil to the Atlantic coast port of Georgetown. The town is 280 feet above sea level. Lethem comes under Guyanese Highland plain. This region includes the cities Lethem and Paramakatoi. It is a non-Hispanic nation in South America along with Suriname, French Guiana, and Brazil.
This town is a part of Guyanese Rupununi savannah and includes lots of cashew trees and mango and coconut trees in its flora. There is a cashew processing plant in Lethem in St. Ignatius. Its main economy area are the plant and mineral extraction, and tourism. At Easter time, a rodeo event takes place which is a tourist attraction.
This place’s main events include Mashramani (Mash), Phagwah (Holi), and Deepavali (Diwali). This place is same as that of English-speaking Caribbean. It is also a founding member of the Caricom. Guyana is populated with Amerindians and is a blend of Indo-Guyanese (East Indian) and Afro-Guyanese (African) cultures like that of Trinidad. It has same types of food, festive events, music, sports, etc. to that of West Indies.
The town is a mixture of Caribbean and African culture and heritage. The official language is English but has a Caribbean accent to it. The others accents are Creole and Amerindian dialects. This place was initially a Dutch Colony and by 1815, British took its possession.

Attractions of Lethem and around in Guyana:
• Rupunni Savannah is in the southwestern part of Guyana. It is on the Brazilian border and the Rupinni River. This region has a land area of 15,000 square kilometers. It has termite mounds, creeks, and Amerindian villages and cattle ranches. To reach the Rupununi Savannah, pass the Iwokrama Rainforest which is a rainforest management.
• The Kanuku and the Moco Moco mountains and falls are the attractions of the place. The savannah divides the Kanuku Mountains into North and South Rupununi and this area is known for its mountains, fresh water systems, various Amerindian villages, large rustic cattle ranches and majestic termite mounds that are tall up to six feet.
• Rodeo Event: At Easter time, a rodeo event takes place which is a tourist attraction. It is said that this sport event turned cultural festival was introduced by an American from Dakota, named Ben Hart during the late nineteenth century. It became an annual tradition in the Rupununi by the local ranchers.
• Orinduik Falls: This is the most visited falls of Guyana. It is situated on a highland river called Ireng River. This river lies on the border of Brazil and Guyana and joins Takutu River and then the Amazon River. These falls fall from Pakaraima Mountains and create a beautiful scene. The name Orinduik Falls is given after Orduik, which is the Amerindian name of an aquatic plant present at the falls. There are several herbal plants here. The surroundings are soothing and relaxing and one can rejuvenate the mind and body. It is an eye for natural lovers and enjoyable site for children and family and one can also go for swimming here.
• Dadanawa, Guyana: This is also called as the Melville’s Ranch and is located on the Rupununi River in Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo Region of Guyana. It is spread over an area of 2,000 square miles. It is also known to be the largest and most isolated cattle ranch of the country. The name is based on an Amerindian name from of the local Wapishanan of a mountain, Dadinauwau, which is close to Dadanawa, Guyana.
• St. George’s Cathedral, Georgetown, also known as St. George’s Anglican Cathedral: It is situated on Church Street. This church has one of the tallest wooden structures in the world and is the second tallest wooden church with its height being about 43.5 meters.
• Demerara Harbour Bridge, Guyana: This Bridge is a floating toll bridge of length 6,074 feet long. It was opened in 2 July 1978 and is one of the longest floating bridges in the world. The construction of Demerara Harbour Bridge, Guyana was assisted and started under British Government. The bridge is 1.25 miles long and has 61 spans with even small crafts being able to pass through. This bridge links people of Georgetown to people living in West Bank Demerara and to enhance business and trade in the country.
• Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology, Guyana: This is a museum of anthropology that is one of the oldest museums of the country. It was open to public in 1982 though opened in 1974. It was run by a NGO of Government of Guyana. This museum houses collections and artifacts related to culture of Guyana.
• Kaieteur Falls: It is situated in the centre of Guyana and on the Potaro River. It is one of the natural wonders. It has a single drop of 741 feet which is the largest in the world. It is located in Kaieteur National Park. It has a series of cascades with a total height of 251 meters (822 ft). It is known to be five times higher than the Niagara Falls and two times the height of the Victoria Falls. It is the 123rd tallest according to the World Waterfalls Database and the 19th largest waterfall in terms of volume and in their estimation, the 26th most scenic waterfall in the world.
• Iwokrama Canopy Walkway: It was opened in 2003 of November. It is a 154 meter long Canopy Walkway from heights of 30 meters. One can see the birds like the Green Aracari, Scarlet Macaw, Guiana Toucanette or Channel-bill Toucan and Red Howler Monkeys.
• Providence Stadium: It is on the north bank of the Demerara River and is the largest sports stadium in the country. There is a mall near called Providence Mall.

Best time to visit / climate:
The climate is Tropical and moderated by northeast trade winds. There are two rainy seasons which are from May to mid-August and mid-November to mid-January. There is a threat of floods in the rainy seasons and so it is best to avoid this time for tourists.

Location on Google Maps:

View Larger Map
Or click and paste the URL below on your browser:

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Lethem,Guyana&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=36.863178,56.513672&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Lethem,+Upper+Takutu-Upper+Essequibo,+Guyana&z=12

How to get there:

Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to visit Guyana: Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Canada, Dominica, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Grenada, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Luxembourg, Montserrat, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, United Kingdom, United States.

By plane:
Trans Guyana Airways and Roraima Airways have daily flights between Georgetown and Lethem. There is a small municipal airport in Lethem. The flights go between the Ogle airport on the East Coast and the Lethem airstrip which is about two hours.
The Timehri international airport which was named in honor of the indigineous displaced peoples of Guyana and which was renamed Cheddi Jagan International Airport. There are daily international flights into and out of Cheddi Jagan International Airport which is about 40km south of Georgetown. International flights include flights to the US, Canada, UK and the Caribbean with Caribbean Airlines.

By car:
The road link from Bonfim in the Brazilian state of Roraima to Lethem is the only way to the Guyana Coast. The road between the capital of the Brazilian state of Boa Vista and Bonfim has been a highway.

Get around:
Minibuses travel throughout Guyana and are the cheapest way to travel. Many parts of Guyana are separated by large rivers which can be traversed by way of river taxi. Taxis are a good way to get around in Georgetown or also rent cars.

Places to stay (hotels / restaurants along with website / contact numbers):

• Virtualtourist.com
• Tripadvisor
• Yahoo Travel
• guyanahotels.com

Blogs / Sites about Lethem:

• Travelblog.com
• Travelpod.com
• Travelblog.org
• http://en.wordpress.com/tag/guyana/

Images and photos of Lethem:

• Google Search
• http://www.maplandia.com/guyana/airports/lethem-airport/

Videos from youtube for Lethem:

Georgetown to Lethem

Moco-moco Falls, Lethem-Guyana

Travel – New Providence – A Caribbean island

Traveller — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 17:54:33 +0000

New Providence Island is dominated by the capital Nassau and is a Caribbean island, being the most populated island in Bahamas. Its best attractions are the small vessel harbors in the Caribbean.
The Spanish were the first to deport slaves to this place, and as a result, a small English colony was formed. This island was a nest for pirates as it was close to New Providence harbor and they attacked ships returning to Spain laden with wealth, gold and silver. Now, the Americans have taken over with tourism and two-third of the Bahamas population is housed here.
The cities of New Providence include Nassau, which is the capital, and is on the eastern side of the island. New Providence is 21 miles in length and 7 miles in width. Paradise Island is located to its north and both are linked by two bridges.

Bahamas Attractions

• Power boat Adventures: This is in the capital Nassau. One can enjoy stingray and shark encounters, with the iguanas and have a good lunch. It is scary for some of the tourists as the wave might cause the boat to shake around.
• Bacardi Distillery: This distillery was established in 1962. This is a production house for rum that is sold on the island. One can take a tour and taste sample cocktails and buy them at the store. Its gift shop is still in running mode but the distillery was closed in 2008.
• Blue Lagoon Island and Dolphin Encounters: This is an exciting tour and cruising through Nassau Harbor on large, high-speed catamarans to the beautiful private island, giving a just perfect trip. Dolphin Encounters also offers a close encounter with California sea lions along with Dolphin swim.
• Daq shack: This is a local flavor to Cable Beach. It is situated direct from the Wyndham and Sheraton. The local straw market, food and cigar vendors are part of the shack. One can enjoy Caribbean music and have fun.
• Arawak cay: This is a cay which is known for its Fish fry. The local flavor of fish can be tasted here. Other Bahamian cuisines are also available.
• Stuart Cove’s Dive Bahamas: This is a notch, swimming with sharks and diving expeditions are available.
• Nassau: This is the capital of the Bahamas and is on New Providence Island. This is a colonial Caribbean city which has modern American culture. It is a combination of old and new in its facilities with an old-world charm. Many of the town’s buildings are dated back to 18th century.
• Junkanoo: This is known to be the biggest event in the Bahamian calendar. This is a street carnival which is held on December 26 which is also known as the Boxing Day. On New Year’s Day Junkanoo groups rush all through the town. Nassau town is the centre of this festival. Junakanoo music is played which has African rhythms and medley on cacophony. Every year the costumes are made from the scratch.
• Dolphin Encounters: Dolphin encounters are where one gets to swim with dolphins. One can also watch from the side. This is located on Salt cay.
• Bahamas Historical Museum: This museum is housed in Nassau and exhibits the pre Columbian times to present times, around 50 years of the history of Bahamas. It has interesting historical artifacts.
• Pirate Museum: This is a tour which takes us to a journey to the heart of downtown Nassau and back to 1716. There is a replica of the pirate ship “Revenge” which can be boarded and seen from the inside.
• Aqua venture at Atlantis Paradise Island: The Atlantis resort that is located on Pirate island houses the largest water park of the world and is spread on a 97-acre Park. There are many waterslides and river rides with special effects that are great fun.
• Bimini Islands: These islands are a group in the Bahamas with an underwater cave system. It is 50 miles (80km) east of Miami and has an area no larger than 10 square miles (26 sq km). The main island of North Bimini, is seven miles long (11km).
• Paradise Island: This Island is connected to the New Providence Island by two bridges. This island has a variety of beaches and hotels and resorts. Cable beach is the popular one.
• Freeport, Grand Bahamas Island: This Island has white beaches and aquamarine seas and is fifty miles, that is, 80 km, east of Miami. Free port is an inland which is preferred by visitors for stay or they choose Lucaya which is a seaside suburb.
• Andros Island: This is the largest island in Bahamas. This island is ideal for scuba divers and fisherman. This island is not that developed but tourist enjoy on the island.
• Exumas Islands: The Exumas comprises of a myriad set of islands and cays. They are spread over hundreds of miles. There are two parts of the islands, the largest is the Great Exuma and the little is the Little Exuma.
• Long Island: This Island hosts one of the main events of Bahamas, a yachting race called Long Island Regatta. It is held in the town of Salt Pond every may. People from all over the world come here to watch it. It is one of the unspoilt islands of the Bahamas.
• Eleuthera Island: This Island has no hotels nor cruise ships and hence not very crowded. It is spread almost 100 miles (161km) but is at most two miles (3km) wide. Harbor Island is considered to be its satellite island.
• Hartley’s Undersea Walk: One can take a walk along the oceanic floor here. Diving is popular and is easy with the use of undersea botanical helmet which is useful for a normal breathing experience and dry hair.
• Pine tree Stables: Here people are taken on a two hour Bahamian horse back ride. This ride starts from Freeport and through the Pine Tree forest, through a castle and then to the dunes and along the beach.

Best time to visit / climate:

This island has a tropical marine climate and the waters of Gulf Stream are warm. The place is attacked by hurricanes and tropical storms and floods. The hurricane season lasts (officially) from June to November. The hotels charge their highest prices during the peak winter period from mid-December to mid-April and are the peak period for touring. Late summer or summer is the best time to visit the place.

Location on Google Maps:

View Larger Map
Or click and paste the URL below on your browser:

http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=New+Providence,+Nassau,+Bahamas&sll=25.06,-77.345&sspn=0.264352,0.44014&gl=uk&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Nassau,+The+Bahamas&ll=25.060099,-77.345123&spn=0.279903,0.44014&z=11

How to get there:
Visitors from US, Canada, EU and Japan do not need an advance visa for stays of up to three months.
By plane: the capital Nassau, on New Providence, and Freeport, on Grand Bahamas are the largest airports of Bahamas. There are smaller airports in other places.
By boat: The capital, Nassau, on New Providence Island is one of the world’s busiest cruise ship ports, and is served by ships that originate from Florida, Freeport on Grand Bahamas Island.
Getting around: One can go by Bahamasair from Nassau or take bus services from Nassau/New Providence or take a taxi or rent a car to go around the place. Mail boats are served in almost all islands in Bahamas and are the cheapest mode of transport.

Places to stay (hotels / restaurants along with website / contact numbers):

• Tripadvisor (hotel, restaurant)
• Wheretostay
• Caribbean.com
• Bahamas-travel.info

Blogs / Sites about New Providence:

• Travelpod.com
• http://www.newprovidenceblog.com/
• nj.com
• Travelbuddy.com

Images and photos of New Providence:

• Google Search
• Trekearth.com
• Tripadvisor.com
• pbase.com

Videos on youtube:

Destiny’s Day of Paradise and New Providence

Nassau – Bahamas New Providence Island – by Esther Borbas

Snorkeling Southwest Reef, New Providence, Bahamas

Travel – Herrera, Panama – named after the general, General Tomás Herrera

Traveller — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 19:07:58 +0000

Herrera is a province located in Panama. It was named after the general, General Tomás Herrera. This province got its existence after the division of the Los Santos province. Chitre is the capital of Herrara and lies on the coastline of the province. Towards its north are the provinces of Veraguas and Cocle, to its south is Los Santos, to its east are Golfo de Parita and to its west is Veraguas.
This province was created in 1854. There are nine provinces in Panama and Herrara is the third biggest in terms of sugarcane production. The economy is also dependent on sugarcane production, along with retail, equipment repair, banking, and domestic service. The other main industries include dairy, cattle, commercial fishing, alcohol, ceramics, clay products, mosaics, and cement.
This province is popular for its festival Del manito ocueno which originated in the city of Ocu. There are many carnivals held in Chitré, Parita and Ocú. Chitre’s carnival is the most famous in Panama. In addition, Herrera is known for the best pottery in the country.
This province is divided into 7 districts:
1. Chitré District. Corregimientos that includes the cities Chitré (capital), La Arena, Monagrillo, Llano Bonito and San Juan Bautistas.
2. Las Minas District. Corregimientos that includes the cities Las Minas (capital), Chepo, Chumical, El Toro, Leones, Quebrada del Rosario and Quebrada El Ciprián.
3. Los Pozos District. Corregimientos that includes the cities Los Pozos (capital), El Capurí, El Calabacito, El Cedro, La Arena, La Pitaloza, Los Cerritos, Los Cerros de Paja and Las Llanas.
4. Ocú District Corregimientos that includes the cities Ocú (capital), Cerro Largo, Los Llanos, Llano Grande, Peñas Chatas, El Tijera and Menchaca.
5. Parita District Corregimientos that includes the cities Parita (capital), Cabuya, Los Castillos, Llano de la Cruz, París, Portobelillo and Potuga.
6. Pesé District Corregimientos that includes the cities Pesé (capital), Las Cabras, El Pájaro, El Barrero, El Pedregoso, El Ciruelo, Sabanagrande andRincón Hondo.
7. Santa María District Corregimientos that includes the cities Santa María (capital), Chupampa, El Rincón, El Limón and Los Canelos.

Attractions of Herrera:
• La Casa Vegetariana: One can get vegetarian food with wide varieties of fruit drinks and soya bean milk etc.
• Gamboa Rainforest Resort: This resort has a magnificent view of the rainforest. There are adventure programs around the Panama Canal area.
• Portobelo National Park: This is a park which offers snorkeling opportunity and kayaking the mangroves and this place is famous for the Spanish and the pirates.
• Colon: Colón is a sea port that is on the Caribbean Sea coast of Panama. This is a city that is on the entrance to the Panama Canal and is capital of the province by the same name. It is also known as the second city of Panama. It is located on Manzanillo Island. It is surrounded by Limon Bay, Manzanillo Bay and the Folks River. It now includes the towns of Cristobal, Rainbow City, Margarita, and Coco Solo, and the former U.S. Army base of Fort Gulick.
• El Casco Viejo: This is a Spanish colonial city, established in 1671. This city was established after the downfall of Panama Viejo in battles and until 20th century, this city was Panama City. Panama bay and other sites depict its history with Spain, France and United States.
• Iglesia de San Francisco de la Montaña: This is a church that dates to 1727. It has unique Baroque architecture and is a declared National Historical Monument on January 27, 1937. About Seventeen kilometers from Santiago, the San Francisco de la Montaña Church is stationed. This church has hundreds of hand carved pieces and is known to have the oldest baroque group of altars of the continent. These altars are painted or covered with gold leaf. These altars have Scared scriptures carved on them with scenes. It is a reflection of Spanish Catholicism with Indian culture. This is located a few kilometers away from the Pan American Highway.
• La Laguna, Las Colinas: This place is near the mountains and beaches zone. One can enjoy being at the top of a mountain or explore the pre mountain tropical forest with birds, plants and wildlife.
• Palacio de Las Garzas: There are many historic buildings in this area.
• Istmo Brew Pub: This pub provides the tourists with locally brewed beers and imported beers.
• The Panama Canal: This canal is about 77 km (48 miles). It is a shipping canal, located in Panama and this canal joins the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean; it is a key for maritime trade. The traffic is about 1000 ships in the early days and much higher right now. This canal has its own measurement system called Panama Canal/Universal Measurement System (PC/UMS) in tons. It is one of the largest engineering projects of the times. The route is via the Drake Passage and Cape Horn at the southernmost tip of South America.

Best time to visit / climate:

Herrera has a tropical wet and dry climate. The dry season is from January to April whereas the wet season is in remaining year. The best time to visit this place is in the dry season.

Location on Google Maps:

View Larger Map

How to get there:
There is a large regional bus terminal in Chitré from where there are bus services to and fro to the destinations like Las Minas, Las Tablas, Los Posos, Ocú, Panama City, Pesé, Santiago, and Tonosí. Chitré has a small airport that has flight service to and fro from Panama City on Aeroperlas.
To reach Panama City:
By plane: Tocumen International Airport is outside Panama City. This airport offers services for Copa Airline, American Airlines (Dallas/Ft.Worth, Miami), Delta Airlines (Atlanta, Georgia), Continental Airlines (Houston, Newark), Avianca (Bogotá, Colombia) and TACA (San José, Costa Rica and San Salvador, El Salvador) along with major Central American airlines, and several South American airlines and European Airlines. There are direct flights between Tocumen and New York, Newark, Washington D.C., Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, Orlando, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, Amsterdam, Madrid, and all major cities in the Caribbean area, Central America and South America, like Santiago de Chile.
By train:
Between Panama City and Colon, only one train service operates with a passenger car. This ride offers a scenic ride with views of the Panama Canal and the tropical rainforest.
To get around in local taxis is the best way of getting around.

Places to stay (hotels / restaurants along with website / contact numbers):
• Hotels at allstays
• Hotel at virtual panama
• Hotels at gtahotels
• Hotels at maplandia
• hotels at exclusive hotels
• Hotels at costaricalink

Blogs / Sites about Herrea, Panama:

• Blogs and reviews at travelblog
• Blogs and reviews at travelpost
• Blogs and reviews at the panama realestate

Images and photos of Herrea, Panama:

• Images at google
• Images at tripadvisor
• Images at Panama Pictures
• Images at Topix

Videos of Herrera, Panama:

Caballo en plaza Colonial de Parita (Herrera-Panama)

Herrera Province, Panama

Herrera Cathedral, Chapel,Center, Azuera Peninsula HD

Travel – Hamilton (Bermuda) – the administrative centre of Bermuda

Traveller — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 19:05:39 +0000

Hamilton is in Pembroke Parish and is the administrative centre of Bermuda. It is known to be the largest city and the present capital of Bermuda after St. George. This city has a large number of museums, some fine buildings and some great architecture, along with a fine Anglican cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity. There are many forts, fortifications and bits of Royal Naval heritage and a modern blend of cinemas, along with a variety of shops, bars, hotels and restaurants. Apart from these this city has markets, gardens, stalls, beaches, squares and plazas with wide streets, boulevards and walkways.

The main attractions in Hamilton are:
- Anglican Cathedral of The Most Holy Trinity
- Barr’s Bay Park
- Bermuda Farmers market
- Bermuda Historical Society Museum
- Bermuda National Gallery
- Bermuda National Library
- Bermudiana Arcade
- Cabinet Building and Cenotaph
- Canon’s Court
- Cathedral of St. Theresa
- City Hall
- Law courts
- Par-la-Ville Park
- Royal Bermuda Yacht Club
- Sessions House
- Victoria Park
- Washington Mall

Few of the popular attractions are:
• Bermuda Forts: There are large forts and smaller batteries on the island. They were built from 1612 to 1957. Almost 100 fortifications are built on this island. The larger ones are restored while some are on displays. Some can only be reached by boat.
• Fort Hamilton: This is a Victorian fort and has a view of Hamilton Harbor. The fortification dates back to mid-19th century. It was the times of rift between Britain and the USA. The ramparts are mounted with 18-ton artillery pieces (to date unused) capable of firing 400-pound (181kg) cannonballs through iron-hulled vessels. There is a small beach nearby known as Clarence Cove. There is a house known to be the residence of Royal Navy’s regional commander and the house is dated from the early 19th century.
• Harrington Sound: This is a big inland sea that is five miles (8km) northeast of Hamilton. The sound is associated to the changing tides and water rush below the bridge connecting. One side is Flatts village on north side and the other side is south side.
• Crystal Caves: The caves are on the land between Harrington Sound and Castle Harbor. One can see stalactites and stalagmites formations. There is a lake known as Cahow Lake which is at a depth of 55ft (17m). Palm garden is another attraction nearby. Further located are Leamington caves which has underground pools.
• Bermuda Maritime Museum, Pender Rd., and Royal Naval Dockyard: One can go for 1/2 a day to the Royal Naval Dockyard. During the American Revolutionary War, the island had naval bases. This island had been the base of the British Royal Navy which relocated the headquarters of its Atlantic Fleet here from 1812 to 1957. The tourist attractions include the old limestone storage buildings, fortresses which were redeveloped by the Bermuda Government. There are shopping centers too.
• Bermuda Perfumery & Gardens: These gardens are for nature lover. There is horticulture and jungle spread with flora like hibiscus, passion flowers, Easter lilies, thumbergia, night-blooming cerus and other flowers. This is known to be the oldest and best perfume shop which also shows how the scents are made. The perfumery is in an old farmhouse that was built around 250 years ago.
• Hamilton City Hall, Repton, Church St, Repton: This hall is known to be built in 1960. It has two galleries and a theatre. The Bermuda Festival of the Performing Arts take place here, and others like the magical Evening of Jazz concert etc. are performed in this hall.
• Scuba Look, Hamilton, 11 Blue Hole Hill, Hamilton: This is on the east side of Bermuda and at Grotto Bay Beach Hotel. It is the only dive operator.
• Bermuda Aquarium, Museum, and Zoo, 40 North Shore Road, Flatts Village: This aquarium has a centerpiece of a 140,000 gallon replica coral reef which is special and there are Over three hundred birds, reptiles and mammals and 200 species of fish housed in this centre.
• Devil’s Hole Aquarium, Harrington Sound Road, Hamilton: It is a small aquarium but one has to look for reef fish and turtles with bait.
• Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute, 40 Crow Lane, East Broadway, Pembroke: This is just outside Hamilton which takes tourists to an underwater expedition.
• John Smith’s Bay Beach, Hamilton Parish: This is another nice pink sand beach.
• Shelly Bay, North Shore Road, Hamilton Parish: This bay has lots of shallow water. It also has a large playground ideal for families with small kids. It is not far from Flatts Village and the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo are also nearby. This bay also has Restrooms, beach rentals, food concession.
• Bermuda Railway Trail: This trail was dismantled after 17 years in 1948. It is now a public walking trail from St. George Town in the east end, through Pembroke Parish near the City of Hamilton and on toward Somerset Village in the west end. On the way one can find trestle houses, station houses and railway ties and views of the island and waters.

Best time to visit / climate:
The climate of Hamilton is sub-tropical, the weather being sunny and hot all year round. July, August and September are hot enough. The best time to visit Bermuda is from spring through to autumn. The warm waters of the Gulf Stream give it a quasi-tropical atmosphere. Overall, Bermuda has a mild, humid subtropical maritime climate; strong winds are common in winter. The hurricane season is from June to November. It is best to avoid this time of the year.

Location on Google Maps:

View Larger Map

How to get there:
Hamilton is accessible from all parts of Bermuda.
By plane: Bermuda International Airport is the airport operating in Bermuda and is located in St. George’s parish which is beside Castle Harbor. This airport serves daily flights from Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charlotte, Newark, New York, Philadelphia, Toronto and Washington, together with less frequent flights from other US and Canadian cities. British Airways fly from London (Gatwick) to Bermuda.
By boat/yacht: The cruise ships operate from the ports of Baltimore, Boston, Bayonne, New York, Norfolk, Miami/Ft Lauderdale, and Philadelphia on the eastern seaboard of the United States.

Get around: All locations in and around Hamilton are easily accessible by foot.

Places to stay (hotels / restaurants along with website / contact numbers):

• Wikitravel.org
• Tripreport.com
• Tripadvisor
• Travel at Yahoo

Blogs / Sites about Hamilton (Bermuda):

• http://blog.laurellkhamilton.org/
• Travelblog.org
• Travelpod.com
• http://ca.loadedweb.com/cities/ontario/hamilton/blogs/
• http://www.travbuddy.com/Hamilton-travel-blogs-520444

Images and photos of Hamilton (Bermuda):

• Google Search
• Travel-tips
• dere-street
• Travelpost

Videos of Hamilton in Bermuda from Youtube:

Hamilton Bermuda, HD Video

Cruise ship, Front Street, Hamilton Bermuda

Bermuda Hamilton Harbor

Hamilton Harbor

Travel – Cayenne – the capital of French Guiana

Traveller — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 15:20:09 +0000

Cayenne is the largest city of French Guiana and the capital. French Guiana is located in the Amazon region of South America, with the status of being an overseas region and department of France. Cayenne is on an island and at the Atlantic coast on the banks of estuary of the Cayenne River. The city’s slogan and motto is “Fert Aurum Industria” which means “Work brings wealth”. It is having approximately population of 100,323. This city is served by Cayenne-Rochambeau Airport which is in the commune of Matoury and is a suburb of Cayenne. Cayenne is situated at 268km of Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni and about 64km of Kourou.
Distances with some cities:
• Paris to Cayenne – 7100km.
• Paramaribo, capital of Suriname to 342km north-west.
• Macapá, capital of the federal state of Amapá (Brazil) which is to 554km south-west.
Cayenne main economy is its industrial centre for Shrimp industry.
Cayenne is the chief town of six cantons:
? The first canton (North West) has 3,935 inhabitants;
? The second canton (North East) has 5,730 inhabitants;
? The third canton (South West) has 8,017 inhabitants;
? The fourth canton (Centre) has 5,955 inhabitants;
? The fifth canton (South) has 9,750 inhabitants;
? The sixth canton (South East) has 17,207 inhabitants

The official language of French Guiana is French but Creole is also widely spoken. Few understand English here. On the Maroni river, Taki-taki is spoken and basic Portuguese and basic Spanish are understood.

Attractions of Cayenne:
• Marshes of Caw: This is located in the Cayenne region and is a natural reserve. It is very attractive for nature lovers. One can see abundant wildlife in here.
• Cayenne Zoo: This is also in the Cayenne region and is a zoo that is situated in a tropical rainforest.
• Place des Palmistes: This is known as the “place of the cabbage trees” and has monuments and gardens. This place is full of palm trees because of which it’s got its name.
• Avenue du General de Gaulle: This is also in the Cayenne region. This is a well known street for hotels, eateries and boutiques.
• Place Grenoble: This is also in the Cayenne region. This is one of the main town squares with full of public buildings.
• Place Victor Schoelcher Market: This is also in the Cayenne region and is the Cayenne’s main vegetable market.
• Cayenne River: This is a known river to take a walk and enjoy the atmosphere around.
• Musee Departemental: This is also in the Cayenne region and is a museum that was an old Creole home. It has a finest area’s collection.
• Fort Ceperou: This is also in the Cayenne region and is a fort that dates back to the 17th century. It is located on a high hillside location with perfect views.
• Fort Diamant: This is also in the Cayenne region and is a government structure dating back to 17th century.
• Remire-Montjoly Beach: This is a beach that is in the Cayenne region and there is an old sugar mill with some ruins. It has great views of the beach.
• Village Chinois (Chinatown): This is also in the Cayenne region. This village is full of restaurants and markets and a bustling fish market.
• Emerald jungle village: This village is the best of the eco tourism. It is in the Cayenne region and has the solar powered lodge which is a French Foreign Legion post. This is abandoned now. The building comprises of a library and on the property lie the botanical trail.
The lodge conducts excursions which are through eastern French Guiana and canoes and mountain bikes are also available on rent.
• Hattes Beach: This is a single nesting site for the giant leatherback turtles and one in the world. These turtles nest from April to July which is peak season for more than 200 leatherbacks. Their eggs are known to hatch from July to September. Even green turtles nest here along with Olive ridley turtles and hawksbill turtles. This beach also has a local museum giving information regarding turtles.
• Salvation islands: Its Local Name is Îles du Salut and these are tropical islands and a group of islands that are known for being a brutal penal colony established in 1852. The group of islands are three and they are Île Royale, Île St Joseph, and the Île du Diable which is also known as the “Devil’s Island” being a penal colony from 1852 to 1953.
The population of these islands is about 2000. These islands are located in shark infested waters. These islands are for the prisoners now.

Attractions around Cayenne:
• Kourou Space Centre (Centre Spatial Guyanais): This is a Science museum and a space centre in the Kourou region of French Guiana. It is known for more than 500 launches that started in the 1960s. One can take a guided tour and view its six launch sites that are the region’s most popular attractions.
• Kourou River: This is in the Kourou region of French Guiana. There are organized rides in pirogues, traditional hollowed-out log canoes.

Best time to visit / climate:
Cayenne has a tropical monsoon climate with minimal seasonal variations. The dry season lasts for two months of the year, September and October, and the other seasons are wet. It is best to visit this place in the dry season. Cayenne has a copious amount of precipitation during the year

Location on Google Maps:

View Larger Map

How to get there:
Cayenne-Rochambeau Airport (CAY) serves this area. The different flights that serve are:
• Surinam Airways to Surinam.
• Air Caraibes toBelem (Brazil), Fort-de-France (Martinique),Panama City, Paris, Point a Pitre(Guadeloupe), San Jose (Costa Rica), Santo Domingo (Dominican republic) and Port au Prince (Haiti).
• Penta, to Brazilian Amazon.
• TAF to Brazil
• Air France to France, Martinique and Guadeloupe.
• From France, with Air France and Air Caraibes.

Places to stay (hotels / restaurants along with website / contact numbers):

• http://wikitravel.org/en/Cayenne#Sleep
• http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g294076-Cayenne-Hotels.html
• Tripadvisor
• http://www.hotelscombined.com/City/Cayenne.htm
• http://www.hotelscombined.com/City/Cayenne.htm

Blogs / Sites about Cayenne:

• http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-city/French%20Guiana/Cayenne/tpod.html
• http://www.yukiba.com/12938-french-guiana-south-america-photo.html
• Bugbitten
• http://www.travbuddy.com/Cayenne-travel-guide-949089

Images and photos of Cayenne:

• Google Search
• http://www.galenfrysinger.com/cayenne.htm
• http://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotos-g294076-Cayenne.html
• http://www.ddbstock.com/frenchguiana1.html

Videos on Youtube:

Cayenne, French Guiana : The Beach

Cayenne, French Guyana

Best Photos near Cayenne, French Guiana

catholic cathedral… Cayenne, French Guiana

Travel – Fribourg, also known as Freiburg (in Switzerland)

Traveller — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 19:14:11 +0000

Fribourg, also known as Freiburg is in the district of Sarine. It is the capital of the Swiss canton of Fribourg and is located on the river sides of Saane/Sarine, on the Swiss plateau. It is a cultural border between French and German. The Old city of Fribourg is on a small rocky hill above the valley of Sarine. Fribourg is at an altitude of 581metres (1,906feet) and is 28 kilometers southwest of Bern.
Fribourg is an economic centre and was founded in 1157 by Herzog Berthold IV of Zaehringen. It comprises of architectural sight, Old city, 200 Gothic styled houses, town houses, monuments and cathedral churches. The population of Fribourg is predominantly Catholic. There are number of monasteries and churches in Fribourg and these are known for its architecture, sculpture and painting. The Franciscan monastery was donated by Jakob von Riggisberg in 1256, the Augustinian monastery was founded in the mid 13th century, and a Capuchin monastery (1608), another on Bisemberg (1621), an Ursuline monastery (1634), and a Visitandine monastery (1635) are the monasteries that prevailed in Fribourg.
Today it is the seat of the Diocese of Lausanne, Geneva and Fribourg. The people of Fribourg speak French, German and Italian, with majority being French. The other languages of the area are Albanian, Serbian, Spanish and Portuguese.

Places to see:
• Bern Bridge, (Bus 4 to Palme): This Bridge is a wooden bridge which is 40m long. It is a renovated bridge and is the only wooden bridge left in Fribourg.
• Berne Gate, (Bus 4 to Palme). This gate has a winding staircase and is 24m high. This gate was built back 1270 and 1290. The doors are original.
• Bibliothèque Cantonale et Universitaire: This library has photographs, books, and audio-visual materials, medieval documents and transcripts.
• Cathedral of St. Nicholas, Rue des Chanoines 3 (From the SBB station, bus 2 or 6): This Cathedral was constructed in 1283 and was completed around 1430. It has been the Cathedral of the diocese of Lausanne, Geneva, and Fribourg since 1945. There are a total of 13 bells in the western tower and bell tower of the choir. The western tower is open to the public and provides a view high above the city.
• Chemins de fer du Kaeserberg, Fondation des Chemins de fer du Kaeserberg: This museum exhibits a network of miniature railways with 2045m of track through a model of Switzerland. The model is built on three levels on a scale of 1:87. The show lasts approximately 90 minutes.
• Espace Jean Tinguely Niki dè Saint Phalle; This is a museum that displays major works from both artists. It also holds temporary exhibits. The museum in a building from 1900 that was once used to shelter trams.
• Fontaine Jo Siffert, Grand-Places: This fountain by Jean Tinguely was dedicated to the memory of his friend Jo Stiffer. The specialty of this mechanical fountain varies depending on sun, clouds, and ice.
• Musée d’Art et d’Histoire: This museum is of art and history. It is housed in Fribourg’s only Renaissance building, The Ratzé Palace. It comprises of paintings and statues from the 12th to 19th centuries as well as historical remains that depict political, religious, and business aspects of life in Fribourg during that period. There is also a slaughterhouse that contains paintings and stone statues from the 19th and 20th centuries.
• Musée de la Bière Cardinal (Cardinal Beer Museum): One can learn the history of the brewery and ancestral brewing methods, housed in former storage cellars.
• Zaehringen Bridge: This is a suspension bridge and is an original piece. It was built back in 1834 and replaced in 1924 with concrete. The bridge is 165m long and spans the Sarine River. There is a footpath beneath the roadway. For a clear view, the Bern Gate or Bern Bridge is the best option. From the steep slope, Whole of the Old town can be viewed.
• Old Town: The Old Town of Fribourg is also known as Basse Ville. It comprises of churches, fountains, ancient bridges and medieval buildings with over 200 Gothic facades dating from the 15th century, cozy cafes and warm restaurants throughout the area.

Events: St Nicholas Day, held in the first week of December.

How to get there:
• By train: Fribourg is accessible by the SBB. Trains run from Geneva airport, Geneva, Thun, Lausanne, St. Gallen, and Bern and Zürich.
• By plane: There is an intercity train from Zürich airport to Fribourg (1hr 41min). Zürich airport is Switzerland’s largest international gateway with flights from all over Europe and North America, Asia, Africa and the Middle East and is 160km from Fribourg. Fribourg can also be accessed from Basel’s Euro Airport within 1hr 48min by bus and train. Bus 50 takes you from the airport to the Basel SBB in 17 minutes and runs frequently throughout the day. There are connections every hour from the Basel SBB to Fribourg. Euro Airport is an international airport servicing many cities throughout Europe and is 140km from Fribourg. Geneva airport is also 140km from Fribourg with direct train links that run hourly.
• To go around: The best option to go around is by foot as all of them are at walking distances.

Best time to visit / climate:

The best time to visit Fribourg is summer that is June-August. The time is right to walk around and visit the places.

Location on Google Maps:

View Larger Map

Driving directions from Zurich to Freiburg on Google Maps:

View Larger Map

Places to stay (hotels / restaurants)

• Booking.com
• Tripadvisor (hotel, restaurants)
• Accorhotels.com
• http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/fribourg.htm
• http://www.hotels-and-more.ch/en/fribourg/
• http://www.hotelclub.com/Switzerland/Fribourg-hotels/ (for cheap deals)

Blogs / Sites about Fribourg:

• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fribourg
• http://wikitravel.org/en/Fribourg
• Expat Blog
• Travelpod.com
• Travelblog.com
• Travelpost.com

Images and photos of Fribourg:
• Google Search
• http://www.travel-images.com/switzerland6.html
• Infohub.com
• Tripadvisor
• http://travel.webshots.com/album/175454697LbZCYJ
• http://photobucket.com/images/Spirit%20Club%20Fribourg/
• e-architect

Videos of Fribourg:

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPqExvVCQ3s

FRIBOURG REGION (Switzerland) – Lakes

FRIBOURG REGION (Switzerland) – Mountains

Arrival in Fribourg, Switzerland

Summer 2007 in Fribourg, Switzerland (time lapse)

Gallipoli in Turkey: A memorial of sacrifice and courage

Traveller — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 17:23:17 +0000

Gallipoli is a peninsula in the north-western part of Turkey, with the Aegean Sea lying to its west and the Dardanelles strait to its east. It is the site of the bloody and tragic battle, the Gallipoli Campaign or the Battle of the Dardanelles, in which a total of about 60,000 soldiers lost their lives. The Gallipoli Campaign is just another battle in the long list of battles that were fought during the First World War, but it remains etched in the memory of every Australian, New Zealander and Turk. In 1915, during the First World War, the British and its allied forces attacked Gallipoli, in order to capture Constantinople and gain strategic advantage. What ensued was an eight month long battle which resulted in the Ottoman armies defeating Britain and its allies. Thousands of Australian and New Zealand soldiers lost their lives in the battle, which turned out to be a defining moment for both Australia and New Zealand, as the people of these countries discovered a feeling of nationalism that brought them together to achieve a new national identity separate from their mother country, Britain. The battles are commemorated every year by all Australians and New Zealanders on ANZAC Day, 25th of April.
Even for the people of Turkey, the Battle of Canakkale, as it is known there, is a source of inspiration and pride. Turkey celebrates Canakkale Zaferi (Canakkale Victory) on the 18th of March every year, to commemorate their victory over the allies. The peninsula is a sacred site for Turkey, Australia and New Zealand, and has many monuments that have been erected in the memory of the soldiers who died for their countries. Every year many tourists, mostly from Australia and New Zealand, visit Gallipoli, an epitome of courage, sacrifice and love for one’s motherland.

Best time to visit /Climate:

The best time to visit is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant.

Location on Google Maps:

View Larger Map

Driving directions between Ankara and Gallipoli in Turkey (on Google Maps):

View Larger Map

How to get there:

By plane: There are regular flights operated by Turkish Airlines, between Istanbul airport and Canakkale airport. From the airport one can take a taxi or bus to the ferry port.
By sea: There are many ferries departing to Eceabat town. From the town you can take a taxi or bus to the all the memorials, museums and other places to see.
By Bus: There are buses going to Canakkale, regularly, from all major cities of Turkey.

Places to stay (Hotels / Restaurants along contact numbers):
Canakkale offers a wide variety of hotels to stay, from budget to expensive ones; there is a hotel to suit everyone’s pocket. Eceabat offers less variety of hotels, but is a quieter alternative, and much closer to the battlefields. Some of the top rated hotels are as follows:

1. The Gallipoli Houses
Kocadere Koyu, Canakkale 17900, Turkey
2. Anzac Hotel
Saat Kulesi Meydani 8 | (Clock Tower Square), Canakkale 17100, Turkey
3. Tusan Hotel
Guzelyali, Canakkale 17001, Turkey
4. Eceabat Hotel
Cumhuriyet Meydani 20 A, Eceabat, Turkey

Source: TripAdvisor

Close to the battlefields, Eceabat is the only town where you would find some fine places to eat. Moving away a bit further, Cannakale has a lot of restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisines. Some of the top rated places to eat are given below:

1. Mecca Restaurant
Kemalpasa Mah. Yali Cad. No. 5, Canakkale, Turkey
2. Albatros Fish Restauran
Ataturk Caddesi, Canakkale, Turkey
Phone: +902862178111
3. Guntepe Restaurant
Izmir AsfaltI uzeri, Canakkale 17200, Turkey
Phone: +902866181479
4. taki restaurant
bozcaada liman, Canakkale, Turkey
Phone: +902866970087

Source: TripAdvisor

BLOGS / SITES ABOUT GALLIPOLI (WITH SMALL EXCERPTS FROM THESE BLOGS):

1. A brief history: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gallipoli
After the devastating 1354 earthquake, the Greek city of Gallipoli was almost abandoned, but swiftly reoccupied by Turks from Anatolia, the Asiatic side of the straits, making Gallipoli the first Ottoman position in Europe, and the staging area for their expansion across the Balkans.
The peninsula, a part of the Byzantine Empire, was gradually conquered by the Ottoman Empire from 13th century to the 15th century. The Greeks living there were allowed to continue their everyday life. Gallipoli (Turkish: Gelibolu) was made a district (Kaymakamlik) in the province (Vilayet) of Adrianople, with about thirty thousand inhabitants: comprising Greeks, Turks, Armenians and Jews.
Gallipoli became a major encampment for British and French forces in 1854 during the Crimean War, and the harbour was also a stopping-off point on the way to Constantinople. Gallipoli did not experience any more wars until World War I, when British and colonial forces attacked the peninsula in 1915, seeking to secure a route to relieve their ally Imperial Russia in the east. The Ottomans set up defensive fortifications along the peninsula, with German help, and the attackers were eventually repulsed.
In 1920 after the defeat of the Russian White army of General Pyotr Wrangel, a significant number of emigre soldiers and their families evacuated to Gallipoli from the Crimea. From there, many went to European countries, such as Yugoslavia, where they found refuge. A stone monument was erected and a special “Gallipoli cross” was created to commemorate the soldiers, who stayed in Gallipoli. The stone monument was destroyed during an earthquake, but in January 2008 reconstruction of the monument had begun with the consent of the Turkish government.

2. Things to do, sightseeing and attractions: http://wikitravel.org/en/Gallipoli
There are three main battlefield areas – Cape Helles (Turkish: Seddülbahir), Anzac / Pine Ridge and Suvla Bay (which has fewer places to visit). Depending on how detailed your itinerary is, it would be possible to visit the main sites of interest, particularly around Cape Helles and Anzac/Pine Ridge, in a single day. More realistically, two or three days allow plenty of time for an extensive tour, taking in all the battlefield sites, cemeteries and memorials. Must sees include:
The Cannakale Martyrs Memorial (near Cape Helles); The British Memorial at Cape Helles; Anzac Cove; Pine Ridge Australian Memorial; New Zealand Monument, Chunuk Bair; Ataturk Statue, Chunuk Bair .
2. http://www.gallipoliexperience.com/en/places-to-visit-in-gallipoli.html
Chunuk bair was one of the most important spot and peak of the Sari bair range in Gallipoli battlefield. The Battlefield of Chunuk Bair was a battle area between the Turkish defenders and troops of New Zealand and Britain on Turkey’s Gallipoli peninsula in August 1915. The attackers captured the Chunuk Bair, “Canak Bay?r?” (Basin Slope) in Turkish (now “Conk Bay?r?”) in between 6-10 August. This was the main objective of the Anzacs’ offensive of early August 1915 when they tried to break out of the stalemate with the Turks in the Anzac sector but their attempt was met with the staunch defence of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk (Turkish commander) and the bid was unsuccessful.
Anzac Cove is one of the small cove in north side of the Gallipoli peninsula in Turkey. It became a well known cove during and after the World War I, because ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) landed on this cove on April 25th 1915. The Anzac cove is nearly 600m long. From the first day of the war North Beach was the port of Anzacs. Anzac Cove beach became the main supply for the Australian and New Zealand troops for the eight months of the Battle of Gallipoli.

3. Map: http://www.anzac.govt.nz/images/gguide/map_index.jpg

4. Photo Gallery:
• 1.Various pictures of Gallipoli: http://www.travelpod.com/photos/5/Turkey/Gallipoli.html
• 2. Pictures by a traveller’s:

http://www.viator.com/tours/Istanbul/Gallipoli-Day-Trip-from-Istanbul/d585-3795IST11/photos

5. Videos on You tube:

1. Memorials of Gallipoli:

2. Gallipoli ANZAC Day Tour, Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair, ANZAC Cove:

Ephesus in Turkey: Glory in the ruins

Traveller — Sun, 17 Oct 2010 18:08:28 +0000

Ephesus is an ancient city located near the town of Selcuk, about 44 miles away from Izmir, in the Izmir province. The city was once famous for the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Lying in ruins, the city is now an archaeological site. Originally founded as a port on the river Cayster, Ephesus has had a long and interesting history. The city is said to have been founded by Androclos, the son of Kodros, the King of Athens. According to legend, in 10th century BC, Androclos, who had to leave Greece because of the Dor invasion, was looking for a site to establish a new settlement for himself and his accompanying people. It was predicted by a Greek oracle that a boar and fish would guide them to the site of their new settlement. One day Anroclos was frying fish in an open pan, when the fish flew from the pan, and landed in the nearby bushes, where a wild boar was hiding. Scared, the boar came out of bushes and started running. Androclos killed the boar, after pursuing it for some time. The place where he killed the boar was where the city of Ephesus was established. Androclos later on died in a war with the Carians. There was a mausoleum built in the memory of the first king of Ephesus.
Ephesus was ruled by the Lydian’s in the mid 6th century BC, under the Lydian king, Kreisos. This was the golden age of Ephesus. Kreisos even restored the Temple of Artemis, which had been razed by the Cimmerians. His signature is can still found on an excavated column of the temple. The Lydian’s were later defeated by the Persians. Alexander the Great defeated the Persians in the year 334 BC and took over Ephesus. During his reign, the Temple of Artemis was destroyed during a rebellion. Ephesus prospered greatly under Alexanders rule.
After the death of Alexander the Great, Ephesus was ruled was by his general, Lysimakhos, in 287 BC. He moved Ephesus further west, because of the destruction of the port on the river Cayster, due to silting. Lysimakhos changed the name of Ephesus to “Arsinoeina”, after his wife’s name, and built huge stone walls around the city. After his death, the people of Arsinoeina broke down the walls, and Arsinoeina became Ephesus again.
Then the Romans arrived in 190 BC. Ephesus was at the peak of its power and wealth during the reign of Augustus in 27 BC. It grew into a metropolis with a population of around 500,000 people, becoming the most important centre of commerce and culture in Asia. Ephesus was the most powerful and advanced city in Asia during this time, second only to Rome for the Romans. The city remained famous for the Temple of Artemis and the Library of Celsus and its open theatre.
In 263 AD, the whole city was destroyed by the Goths, including the Temple of Artemis, marking the decline of the city’s glory.
In 395 AD, Ephesus became a part of the Byzantine Empire. Constantine I rebuilt most of it, and it was their most important city in Asia. In 406 AD, the archbishop of Constantinople, John Chrysostom, ordered for the destruction of the Temple of Artemis.
An earthquake in 614 AD partially destroyed the city again.
As time went on, silting of the harbour, made it unusable and the city became unfit for trade. Slowly, people started abandoning the city. The remaining locals started using the ruins of the once magnificent temples, including the Temple of Artemis, for domestic and other purposes. The Arabs sacked the city in 645 AD and again in 700 AD and 716 AD. The Seljuk’s took over Ephesus in 1090 AD, with the Byzantines regaining control in 1100 AD.
But now Ephesus, remained nothing more than a small village (called Ayasalouk) with the Temple of Artemis completely forgotten. In 1304 AD, the town Ayasalouk saw some good times under the Seljuk’s, who built some monuments of their own. By the 15th century AD, completely abandoned, Ephesus just remained a name in history for people to talk and write about. Ephesus has also played an important role in the spread of Christianity. In 52 AD, St Paul arrived here, and with a lot of struggle and persistence, was able to make most of the Ephesians accept Christianity. The Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus Christ, is said to have made Ephesus her last home. The house of the Virgin Mary, about 4 miles from Selcuk, is an important place of pilgrimage for the Christians.
The ruined city of Ephesus is the most important tourist destination of Turkey. It attracts millions of people every year, who can still see the glory, splendour and magnificence of Ephesus, in its ruins.

Climate and best time to visit:

The climate of Ephesus is typical Mediterranean with long, hot and dry summers and cold, rainy winters. During the summer months (May to August) temperatures can reach as high as 40 degrees C. Winters can be chilly with temperatures dropping as low as 5 degrees C. The best time to visit Ephesus is during spring (Mid Feb to April) and autumn (September and October), when the weather is mild.

Location on Google Maps:

View Larger Map

How to get there:

By plane: There are flights to Izmir International airport from all major cities of Turkey and Europe as well. From the airport you can take a bus from Izmir central bus station to Selcuk or if you decide to stay in Izmir, your hotel can provide you with shuttle buses to Selcuk. Or even still, if you are tight on time and don’t mind spending some extra bucks, you can take a taxi from the airport to Selcuk.
By sea: You can also get there via ferry from the port of Kusadasi. Take a bus from Kusadasi bus station or a taxi from Kusadasi to Selcuk.

Places to stay (Hotels / Restaurants along with website / Contact details):

There are almost no hotels in Ephesus itself, but accommodation is available is available in the nearby towns of Selcuk and Kusadasi. If you are on a tight budget, some families also give away rooms on rent to tourists. Some nice hotels near Ephesus are given below:

1. Hotel Bella
Ataturk Mah. | St. John Street No: 7, Selcuk, Turkey
2. Hotel Nazar
S.M.Tavaslioglu cd. 2019 SK. No: 14, Selcuk 35920, Turkey
3. Aqua Fantasy Hotel & Aqua Park
Ephesus 35920, Turkey
4. Richmond Ephesus Resort
Pamucak, Selcuk 35920, Turkey

Source: Trip Advisor

You would find many small restaurants and fast food joints in Ephesus near the gates. Besides this, there are plenty of restaurants on the way to Ephesus from Kusadasi or Selcuk and in the towns itself, selling all kinds cuisines.

Some nice restaurants are given are given below:
1. Ejder Restaurant
9 Cengiz Topel Cad. Selcuk 35920, Turkey
2. Mehmet and Ali Baba Kebab House
4A, 1047 Sok. Selcuk 35920, Turkey
Phone: +902328923872
3. Amazon
Anton Kallinger cad 22, Selcuk, Turkey
4. Okumuslar Pide Salonu
Sahabettin Dede Caddesi 2, Selcuk, Turkey

Source: Trip Advisor

BLOGS / SITES ABOUT EPHESUS (WITH SMALL EXCERPTS FROM THESE BLOGS):

1. A brief history: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ephesus
Ephesus was founded as an Attic-Ionian colony in the 10th century BC on the Ayasuluk Hill, three kilometers from the center of antique Ephesus (as attested by excavations at the Seljuk castle during the 1990s). The mythical founder of the city was a prince of Athens named Androklos, who had to leave his country after the death of his father, King Kadros. According to the legend, he founded Ephesus on the place where the oracle of Delphi became reality (“A fish and a boar will show you the way”). Androklos drove away most of the native Carian and Lelegian inhabitants of the city and united his people with the remainder. He was a successful warrior, and as a king he was able to join the twelve cities of Ionia together into the Ionian League. During his reign the city began to prosper. He died in a battle against the Carians when he came to the aid of Priene, another city of the Ionian League. Androklos and his dog are depicted on the Hadrian temple frieze, dating from the second century. Later, Greek historians such as Pausanias, Strabo, the poet Kallinos, and the historian Herodotos reassigned the city’s mythological foundation to Ephos, queen of the Amazons.

2. Things to do, sightseeing and attractions:
• http://www.ephesus.us/ephesus/templeofartemis.htm
The temple of Artemis is known as one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. It has been built in the areas of Ephesus on a flat area which has over the centuries turned into a swamp. Today one can only see the ruins of the foundations of this marvelous construction of the Hellenistic Age, entirely made of marble and full of sculptured columns’ capitals and shafts. The most beautiful remains of this temple are today exhibited in the London British Museum.
The oldest remaining found date back till the 6th century BC. It was surrounded by 36 huge columns, later enlarged upon the orders of the Lydia King, Kreisos, during the 6th century BC. Most of the exhibits in the London British Museum belong to this period.

• http://www.turizm.net/cities/ephesus/celsus.html
Library of Celsus: Although the building is of a mainly cultural character it is also a funerary monument. After the death of Celsus Polemaenus, a former consul who had been appointed governor of Ephesus, his son erected a magnificent reading room over his tomb. The building, which dates from the 2nd century, was attacked by fire in 260 but the facade suffered no damage. It is 21 m wide and 16 m high. Equestrian statues stood on pedestals on each side of the main staircases and there are also indications that statues were placed in the niches on the upper floor. The main room measures 16 x 10 m. The burial chamber under the ground floor contains a sarcophag s in an excellent state of preservation. Excavations carried out by Austrian archaJologists at the beginning of the 20th century revealed a 4th century fountain in the front courtyard and very valuable carvings in high relief depicting the wars waged by Marcus Aurelius and ucius Verus against the Parthians.

3. Map of Ephesus: http://www.ramtur.com/images/map/ephesus_big_map.jpg

4. Photos of Ephesus:
• Huge photo gallery of Ephesus: http://www.turkishclass.com/turkey_pictures_gallery_45
• Another picture gallery: http://www.ephesus.us/ephesus/ephesus_photos.htm

5. Videos on You Tube:
1. A tour of Ephesus:

2. Temple of Artemis (small video clip):

Cappadocia: A wonder of nature based in Turkey

Traveller — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 19:55:37 +0000

Cappadocia is a region in Central Anatolia in Turkey, lying mainly in the Nevsehir Province. Cappadocia is known for its stunning and visually striking landscape that resembles the surface of the Moon, with caves and “fairy chimneys” (chimney like structures). It is a unique place with underground cities that include houses carved in the rocks, churches, wine production places etc. The unique landscape is a result of the volcanic eruptions that occurred in the volcanoes of Erciyes, Melendiz and Hasan, leading to the formation of a large volcanic plain, and together with the work of the waters of the Kizilirmak river and hostile winds, over tens of thousands of years, there appeared this unique rocky landscape, with chimney structures, a wonder of nature.
The history of Cappadocia is long and very old, dating back to prehistoric times. Hitti culture was active during the Bronze Age, with the Hittites arriving in 2000 BC. Then came the Assyrians (2000-1800 BC), and while the Phrygians were the rulers from 1250 BC, the Persians ruled till about 334 BC, after expelling the Lydian’s. In AD 17 came the Romans, encouraging settlements and building of urban centres in the region. It was the first Christians, who, fearing persecution by the Romans, hid inside these underground cities, from they couldn’t be seen and found. Staying underground for such a long time, they built an elaborate living system, with water wells, churches, rooms, toilets etc. Finally, the Seljuk’s and the Ottomans arrived.
Though the rocky, volcanic region appears to be dead to vegetation, its soil is mineral rich, perfect for growing fruits and vegetables. The region is Anatolia’s prime place for growing grapes, and has many vineyards and wineries. Cappadocia is a major tourist destination of Turkey. There are a number of attractions that include the underground cities, the hot air balloon rides over the fairy chimneys, hiking etc. There are even underground hot nightclubs, giving it a night life.

Climate and best time to visit:

Cappadocia has a continental climate, hot and dry in summers with chilly and snowy winters. The area does not receive much rainfall. The best time to visit is from April to Mid-June and September to October, when it’s not too hot and less crowded.

LOCATION ON GOOGLE MAPS:

View Larger Map

Driving directions from Ankara in Turkey to Cappadocia:

View Larger Map

Map of Cappadocia: http://www.cappadociaonline.com/images/capharita.jpg

How to get there:

By bus: There are buses available to Nevsehir and Goreme from major Turkish cities.
By plane: There are flights available to Kayseri from Izmir and Istanbul. Goreme is about an hour drive from Kayseri.
By train: There are trains available to Kayseri from almost all railway stations in Turkey. From Kayseri, a bus can be taken Goreme.

Places to stay (Hotels / Restaurants along with website / Contact Numbers):

There are plenty of hotels to stay in Cappadocia, from expensive to budget ones. Some of the underground cities have been converted into hotels, and some have even been carved out of the rocks. Some of the top rated hotels are as given below:
1. Serinn House
Esbelli Sokak No. 36, Urgup, Turkey
Phone: +90 384 341 6076, Website: http://www.serinnhouse.com/
2. 4ODA Cave House
Esbelli sok. No: 46, Urgup 50400, Turkey
3. Gamirasu Cave Hotel
Ayvali Koyu, Urgup 50400, Turkey
4. Kismet Cave House
Kagnii Yolu No: 9 | Belediye cad. Goreme 50180, Turkey

Source: Trip Advisor

There are many restaurants Cappadocia, offering all kinds of cuisines. Cappadocia has a lot of wineries too, producing some very fine wine. Some of the best restaurants are given below:

1. LIL’A RESTAURANT
Tel: +90 384 219 2220

http://www.lil-a.com.tr

2. ZIGGY’S SHOPPE & CAFE
Tevfik Fikret Caddesi No. 24 | Yunak Mahallesi, Urgup, Turkey
Tel: +90-384-341 7107
3. ALATURCA
Tel: +90 384 271 2882

Source: Cappadociaonline.com

BLOGS / SITES ABOUT CAPPADOCIA (WITH SMALL EXCERPTS FROM THESE BLOGS):

1. A brief history: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cappadocia
Cappadocia was known as Hatti in the late Bronze Age, and was the homeland of the Hittite power centred at Hattusa. After the fall of the Hittite Empire, with the decline of the Syro-Cappadocians (Mushki) after their defeat by the Lydian king Croesus in the 6th century, Cappadocia was ruled by a sort of feudal aristocracy, dwelling in strong castles and keeping the peasants in a servile condition, which later made them apt for foreign slavery. It was included in the third Persian satrapy in the division established by Darius, but continued to be governed by rulers of its own, none apparently supreme over the whole country and all more or less tributaries of the Great King.

2. Things to do, sightseeing and attractions:

http://wikitravel.org/en/Cappadocia

• Hot Air Balloon Tours: This is one of the most popular activities in Goreme. Typically lifting off at sunrise, these rides last about an hour in the air and literally go wherever the wind may blow in the Cappadocia Valley. The balloon baskets hold around 20 people with the pilot riding air currents much like a boat, floating down the valleys, often below the ridge line and quite close to the chimney rocks. It’s a fantastic ride and if you’ve ever had the urge to splurge on a balloon ride, this would be the place to do it. There are 15 balloon companies in the region.
• Cross Golf. : Cappadocia is a national park and its natural environment must be protected for everyone to enjoy today and in the future. Cross Golf uses the natural features of the landscape to challenge even the most experienced golfer. The fairy chimneys, fascinating rock formations and flora and fauna in the unique environment of Cappadocia remain unaffected by Cross Golf.

2. http://www.great-adventures.com/destinations/turkey/cappadocia.html
Rock Cut Churches and Monasteries
Many settlements in Cappadocia were established primarily as monastic communities. As Bishop of Caesarea Mazaca in the 4th century, St. Basil the Great wrote the rules for monastic life that are still followed by monks and nuns of the Greek Orthodox Church. He advocated community life, prayer and physical labour rather than the solitary asceticism that was popular at the time and it was under his guidance that the first churches were built in Goreme Valley. Here, a number of small communities with their own churches formed the large monastic complex that is now the Open Air Museum. Hundreds of churches are reported to have been built in this valley but no churches from St. Basil’s time remain. In Goreme, the Tokali Kilise or the “Buckle Church” is easily the loveliest of the churches with graceful arches and beautiful frescoes.

3. Photo Gallery:

1. Cappadocia photos with tags by a traveller: http://www.pbase.com/dosseman/capadocia_turkey

2. Cappadocia photos collection:

http://www.trekearth.com/gallery/Middle_East/Turkey/Central_Anatolia/Nevsehir/Cappadocia/

4. You Tube Videos:
1. A small video of Cappadocia with narration:

2. Underground city in Cappadocia:

3. “Cappadocia – The Land That Time Forgot”:

Ani: The ghost town of Turkey

Traveller — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 18:45:06 +0000

Ani is the site of the remains of a city, in the Turkish province of Kars, near the Armenian border. The city, also known as the “City of the 1001 Churches”, was at its peak in the medieval period, when it was the capital of the great Armenian Empire, ruled by the Bagratids, covering most of Armenia and eastern Turkey. It’s now a ghost town; abandoned and uninhabited with the ruins of what was once a flourishing city. The city was named after the ancient Urartian fertility goddess Anahid. King Ashot III decided to make Ani his capital in 961. Other kings came in succession and constructed churches, monasteries and a citadel. Less than a century later it was conquered by the Byzantines in 1045, in 1064 by the Seljuk’s and then by the King of Georgia, followed by some Kurdish Emirs. In 1239, the Mongols took over it, and in 1319 a mighty earthquake wiped out the mighty Mongols. Since then the city has been in ruins. One can see the remains of the churches and the walls of the city standing above the collapsed rubble of the city, now covered under vegetation.
Ani had been a source of dispute between the Armenians and Turkish authorities for a long time and visiting Ani was not easy, as there were a lot of restrictions and formalities involved. Being near the border, made it even more difficult. But in 2004, these restrictions have been removed. Now anybody can visit Ani without facing any problems. Turkish authorities too, are now keen on its conservation and development as a tourist destination. Ani, is a tourist destination of its own kind and definitely a must see in Eastern Turkey.

Best time to visit /Climate:

Ani can get very hot and arid during summers, with temperatures reaching 38 degrees, and very chilly in winters. Best time to visit is June to September.

Location on Google maps:

View Larger Map

Driving directions from Istanbul to Ani:

View Larger Map

How to get there:

You can get a taxi to Ani from Kars. You can get it arranged by your hotel or look around for one, or maybe hitch a ride. You can also drive your own car; there is a direct road from Kars to Ani.

Places to stay (Hotels / Restaurants along with website / contact numbers):

There are no hotels or restaurants in Ani. Bring your own picnic basket and water. The only hotels anywhere near Ani are in Kars.

Blogs / sites about Ani (with small excerpts from these blogs):

1. A brief history: (http://wikitravel.org/en/Ani)
Ani first rose to prominence in the 5th century A.D., as a hilltop fortress belonging to the Armenian Kamsarakan Dynasty. By the ninth century, the Kamsarakan possessions in Eastern Anatolia had merged with the Bagratid Dynasty, and in 956, King Ashot III moved the Armenian capital to Ani. Shortly thereafter, the Armenian Catholicos moved here as well, establishing the city as the undisputed center of Armenia. The city grew rapidly, and by the eleventh century, the city boasted more than 100,000 citizens. At its height of power and wealth, it became known as the City of Forty Gates and the City of a Thousand Churches.
Ani’s golden age ended with the death of King Gagik in 1020, when Armenian power was split between his two sons. In a series of political events that define the word Byzantine, the son who controlled Ani named the Byzantine Emperor his heir, in an attempt to prevent an invasion. Upon his death, the Byzantine Emperor stated his claim upon the city, but the new King of Ani reneged on the deal and repulsed the Emperor’s armies. But a mere three years later, following a series of Armenian military defeats and a pro-Byzantine uprising in Ani, the city surrendered itself to Byzantine control.

2. Things to do, sightseeing and attractions:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ani

The church of St Gregory of Tigran Honents:
This church, finished in 1215, is the best-preserved monument at Ani. It was built during the rule of the Zackary’s and was commissioned by the wealthy Armenian merchant Tigran Honents. Its plan is of a type called a domed hall. In front of its entrance are the ruins of a narthex and a small chapel that are from a slightly later period. The exterior of the church is spectacularly decorated. Ornate carvings of real and imaginary animals fill the spandrels between blind arcade that runs around all four sides of the church. The interior contains an important and unique series of frescoes cycles that depict two main themes. In the eastern third of the church is depicted the Life of Saint Gregory the Illuminator, in the middle third of the church is depicted the Life of Christ. In the narthex and its chapel survive fragmentary frescoes that are more Byzantine in style.[21]

The Church of the Redeemer:
This church was completed shortly after the year 1035. It had a unique design: 19-sided externally, 8-apsed internally, with a huge central dome set upon a tall drum. It was built by Prince Ablgharib Pahlavid to house a fragment of the True Cross. The church was largely intact until 1955, when the entire eastern half collapsed during a storm.

3. Map of Ani: http://iguide.travel/illustrations/Ani-5.png

4. Photo Gallery:
1. Photos of Ani by a traveler with descriptions: http://www.galenfrysinger.com/ani_turkey.htm

2. Collection of photos of Ani:

http://www.trekearth.com/gallery/Middle_East/Turkey/East_Anatolia/Kars/Ani/

5. Videos on You Tube:
1. A tour of Ani: