Hotel Reservations Online

How To Make Your Hotel Reservations Online
by: John R Hanna

Very often, a vacation would mean visiting a place which is totally foreign to you. The better and more famous your destination, the more difficult might be to get the hotel reservations you’re looking for or at least expecting. Sometimes, leaving things to chance can turn into disaster and it might not be such a good idea. There are great ways to book a hotel in advance, according to your exact specifications, i.e. location, star category, budget, amenities, etc.

Advantages Of Making Your Hotel Reservations Online
Technology has always been human being’s best friend. Hence, why not put technology to good use here, as well? Yes, you could use the Internet for checking out what types of hotels exist in the area you are planning to vacation to and then you can learn all that there is to know about the hotels that are available to you. Not only that, but you can also book your hotel on the internet, as well. How easy could it get?

The advantage with booking your hotel reservations online is that you can literally have a tour of the hotel you are planning to stay at, without moving an inch from your home. Most of the hotel websites (and travel agent websites as well) will have a virtual tour of the hotel ready for those who want to see the details of the premises. In this way, you could see the rooms and the amenities, such as the bar, the restaurants, the shopping arcades, the entertainment areas, etc.

Besides making the hotel reservations, you can also use the Internet to inform and request the hotel for any special arrangements that you might need. These could be anything - such as an extra bed/mattress for children, pick-up and/or drop from /to the airport, booking seats on sightseeing tours, booking tickets at local festivities, parks, aquariums or whatever else the local attractions might be, and so on.

Booking your hotel reservations online would also mean the possibility of a substantial discount – if you make the booking some three or four months in advance. There are many hotels that offer heavy discounts when accommodation with them is booked well in advance. Why not plan your vacation well enough and avail of this wonderful opportunity.

Lastly, you can use the occasion of making your online hotel reservations to educate yourself about the class of the hotels in the region. However, you should keep in mind that everyone has different tastes. What might be three star to one person might be four to another. In this sense, you should trust your gut on what hotel will best accommodate your needs.

Copyright © John Hanna All Rights Reserved.

This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.

About The Author
John Hanna has cruised the world on all of the top cruise lines and stayed in most of the world's top hotels. He recently sold his bricks & mortar company to expand his internet consulting business. Visit his other Websites at: http://www.vendingsales.VendingMachine-Sales.com " target=new>http://www.PrincessCruises-Caribbean.com> and http://www.WorldHotelPortal.com.

Visit to Gujarat

Visit to Gujarat – The Jewell of the West
by: Michael Braganza

Visit to Gujarat – the Jewell of West and get enchanted with its religious, cultural and historical panorama. The history and cultural tradition of Gujarat dates back the time of the Indus valley civilization established by ruins found at Lothal.

The Indian state of Gujarat is situated between 20.6 and 24.42 degrees north latitude and 68.10 and 74.28 degrees east longitude. Located on the western part of the sub-continent of India, the state of Gujarat gets its name from “Gujjar Rashtra”, the land of Gujjars, a migrant tribe who passed through Punjab and settled in some parts of western India in the 5th century.

The Jewell of the west, Gujarat is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the sub-continent of India which attract a large gathering of travelers & tourists to the state and offers something for every tourist. The state has the longest sea coastline in the country and famous for its beaches. Some of major beaches of Gujarat are Ahmedpur Mandavi, Beyt Dwarka Beach, Chorwad Beach, Gopnath Beach, and Veraval Beach etc.

Apart from beaches Gujarat is blessed with architectural assets, holy temples & places, hill resorts, wildlife sanctuary, and many places of tourist interest. Together with wide-ranging destinations, the elegant & stylish handicrafts, the yummy foodstuffs, and colourful lifestyle of Gujarati people, enhance to its charm and its charm never fails to attract the attention of tourist.
Gujarat is also famous among tourists for its fascinating diversity of wildlife. Each is related to one another and has its unique environment. The wildlife of Gujarat is habitat of many kinds of animals and also some extremely rare animals. The Gir is the world famous forest. The Asiatic lion is only found in the Gir. During your Gujarat wildlife tours you will visit various wildlife sanctuary and national parks which will surely enchant you with its fascination. Some of the major wildlife of Gujarat is Sasangir National Park, Wild Ass Wildlife Sanctuary, Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, Marine National Park, Velavadar Blackbuck Sanctuary etc.

Some of the top Gujarat Tours attraction:
Sabarmati Ashram / Mahatma Gandhi's Home, Ahmedabad Hathee Singh Jain Temple, Ahmedabad Calico Museum of Textiles, Ahmedabad Jama Masjid, Ahmedabad Dada Hari, Ahmedabad Siddha Shree Dhoramnath Monastery, Bhuj Dhoramnath Temple, Bhuj Champaner-Pavagadh, Vadodara Little Rann of Kutch Rauza, Ahmedabad

To make your Gujarat tour handier, many travel agencies and tour planners of India offer Gujarat tours packages and they also provide valuable information about your Gujarat tours.
During your Gujarat tours you will know what the state is famous for and will be familiar with its exotic cultural tradition, attractive handicrafts, and architectural assets and of course its wildlife.

What a tourist can ask for, Gujarat tour tries to fulfill every type of his demand. Become a part of Gujarat tour and get enchanted with its everlasting sweet charm. The fascination of Gujarat is in waiting for your arrival.

About The Author
Michael Braganza is an eminent analyst and writer in Travel & Tourism related topics. He has authored many books on tour guide for Gujarat Tours Of India and India Tours. Now he is rendering his services to http://indiatours.etradeservices.com/

Bijaypur and Jaipur

India 2007 - Days 4 to 6 - Bijaypur and Jaipur
by: Liz Canham

The drive from Udaipur to Bijaypur was nothing if not interesting. En route, we visited Chittaugarh Fort, a huge fortification with a whole town within it. Built on a one hundred and fifty metre high plateau in the Aravalli Hills, it is in ruins but well-restored. The entrance is on the north west side and the road winds up through seven individually named gates, each with its own guardhouse. The first gate is known as Padal Pol (lowest gate) followed by Bhairav Pol (Bhairav being an attendant of the Goddess Durga), Hanuman Pol (this gate has a temple and a shrine dedicated to the Monkey God Hanuman), Ganesh Pol (for the Elephant God), Jorla Pol, Lakshman Pol and finally Ram Pol (Gate of the God Ram) which was built in AD 1459. The gateway located on the eastern side of the fort is known as Suraj Pol (Sun Gate).

The exploits of the Rajputs place in Indian folklore compares with that of the medieval knights of Europe or the Samurai of Japan, to the extent that individual Rajput heroes have the place where they fell in defence of the fort, marked with stones.

The palace of Kumbha and Padmini's Palace are but two of the beautifully carved edifices, which have been subject to restoration.

Onwards from the fort and having travelled some distance on a very good road, our driver realised that he had missed our turning and wasted about an hour. Around we turned, eventually found the right turning then spent a further hour winding our way further and further uphill, until, if it weren't for the frequent signposts to our hotel, we would have assumed that we had gone wrong again.

On arrival in Bijaypur, the hotel certainly didn't live up to its photos on the internet, being more than somewhat dilapidated with an all-male staff who were trained in a very different school to that of the other hotels we stayed in! However, we managed to acquire beer, a sandwich (awful) and towels for the pool so whiled away the afternoon happily enough.

With some trepidation, we ventured back to the courtyard of our arrival to find a transformation. The odd tables covered with pieces of hardboard now sported bright cloths, the place buzzed with people (a convention had arrived) and the stage was set for entertainment. The staff seemed rather more awake and soon we were seated with beer and poppadoms to watch the dancing of successive ladies in bright red, green and gold saris.

Dinner, too, was a surprise, being a very tasty, mainly vegetarian buffet consisting of boiled rice, an aubergine curry, an egg curry, mixed vegetables, dal and a mutton dish, which, although not vegetarians, we didn't try. There was also nan bread on offer, which was very welcome.

Next morning, the staff had gone back to sleep, each of three separate waiters asking what we wanted for breakfast and none of them getting it right - oh well, you can't win them all.

After breakfast, we set of for Jaipur, taking an interesting short-cut to the freeway past grazing camels and wonderful orange-flowered flame trees, through tiny villages, over rough ground without tarmac, better suited to a four-wheel-drive vehicle!

Some six hours later, the welcome respite of our hotel in Jaipur and some lunch - Indian-style wraps containing spicy chicken.

Dinner was a quite spicy mutton curry for my husband and Malaysian noodles for me, incorporating chicken and prawns and a fearsome amount of chilli!

Next day involved the obligatory visits to the Jantar Mantar observatory, the Chandra Mahal (City Palace) and the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), an interesting structure, tall and very narrow, ornately carved from pink sandstone and built solely so that the royal ladies could watch the world go by without being seen. The City Palace, too, is well worth a visit, with seven stories and seven courtyards, partly still occupied by the present-day Maharajah. There is a large museum which gives some insight into the past days of the maharajahs, including costumes, weapons, pottery, musical instruments and the two fantastic silver jars used by Nadho Singh II to carry Ganges water for bathing on his visit to England in 1901.

All that sightseeing naturally brought on hunger and thirst, so spring rolls and spicy prawns by the pool were the order of the day but so good and plentiful were they that I could only manage a tarka dal and nan bread for dinner while my husband had the interestingly-named Southern Railway Lamb curry. There was no real clue as to the contents, but we surmised the use of the normal spices and flavourings which resulted in quite a red-coloured and extremely tasty dish.

Our next few days will be spent in Ranthambhore National Park, so I hope you'll be with us then to hear our experiences, both culinary and wildlife.

About The Author
Liz Canham:
As well as a love of Asian cooking as you can see in her Asian Food and Cookery website, Liz seeks to help newcomers to the world of internet marketing with tools, tips and training from her Liz-e-Biz website.
http://lizebiz.com/

Delhi and Udaipur

India 2007 - Days 1 to 3 Delhi and Udaipur
by: Liz Canham

Arriving in Delhi in March, the temperature was somewhat higher than in Europe at about 30°C, but surprisingly, not unpleasant due to the lack of humidity. As this was our third visit to Delhi, the hustle and bustle of humanity, the porters vying to push our luggage trolley and the general feeling of organised chaos, came as little of a surprise. However, there were some changes since our last visit. The drive into the city seemed to take much less time than previously, I think because the road had been widened in places and the extension of the metro system had reduced the traffic by a minuscule but noticeable amount.

In other respects, the journey was just the same; tuk tuks whizzing in and out of other traffic, hundreds of bicycles and motor scooters each with upwards of two passengers, overloaded buses and lorries and the ubiquitous Ambassador car. Nonetheless there are now far more other makes of private vehicle on the roads than before, Tata being a favourite, manufactured by the giant company formerly only known for its trucks, but now making affordable family cars as well as branching out into the telecoms business.

The welcome at our hotel was, as always in good Indian hotels, impeccable and we were soon ensconced in the bar with an ice cold Kingfisher beer and were soon deep in conversation with the incredibly well-educated barman about, amongst other things, Indian politics and the growth of international business in this part of the world.

Another Kingfisher in and we were a bit peckish, the effects of our Virgin Atlantic breakfast having worn off. The speciality here was Chinese cuisine so we opted for king prawns in a wonderful chilli and garlic sauce plus (more) prawns wrapped in crispy filo pastry and served with a delightful, light dipping sauce, slightly sweet and slightly spicy. But enough of Chinese food, after all, we are in India!

The same night we ate a tandoori chicken dish as well as spicy, very finely minced lamb patties. To accompany the meat, we chose a tarka dal (red lentils, spiced with cumin, garlic, ginger and chilli, to name but a few) served in tiny individual dishes, as is traditional, as well as light-as-air naan bread. To follow we had (rather unnecessarily, but my husband has a sweet tooth) Zauk-e-Shahi, which we were told translates as Dessert of the Royals and is a reduced milk, saffron and paneer (similar to cottage cheese) dumpling encrusted with poppy seeds. It was a truly wonderful meal, made so particularly by the friendliness of the waiting staff and their happiness at our interest in the food and how it was cooked. They were astounded to learn that we in the West, cook Indian food in our homes too!

On day two, after a breakfast buffet which catered to every possible taste and dietary requirement, we headed back to the airport and flew to Udaipur. As there was a lengthy check-in period and the flight was slightly delayed, I just had to try the samosas, which at less than one rupee for two (if my memory serves me correctly) was the bargain of the holiday. On top of that, they were very tasty and hardly greasy at all - pretty amazing for a fast-food snack in any country.

On arrival in Udaipur, we were once again struck by the bright colours worn by the Rajastani women - shocking pink, orange and yellow being predominant. Negotiating the narrow, winding streets, many of the shops were also festooned with the same rainbow-hued saris.

Our hotel was part of the City Palace complex, still partially occupied by the Maharana himself and its main attraction, apart from the palace itself, is its outdoor bar and restaurant set right at the edge of Lake Pichola, overlooking virtually the whole lake and in particular, the Lake Palace Hotel, famous for featuring in the James Bond film "Octopussy". The view from this terrace of the setting sun reflecting in the lake and the twinkling of the uplighting of the Lake Palace is really something to see, but on this particular evening, the thrall of the sunset was interrupted by first an elephant complete with howdah but no passengers, swiftly followed by a procession of various classic European sports cars and then a marching band. Apparently, the sports car drivers were on a tour of India and had been invited by the Maharana to a banquet. As a consequence, we too were treated to processions, music and fireworks far into the night.

Knowing that there would be less choice at some of our other destinations, we went the Chinese route for dinner which consisted of chicken fried in chilli sauce, crispy shredded mutton tossed in lemon, honey and chilli plus Sweet and Sour Vegetables - red and green pepper, cauliflower and peas, which, with egg fried rice, all went down very well.

The next morning was taken up with sightseeing - a drive around Lake Pichola, the Princes Garden and the City Palace, of which there is far too much of interest to describe here. Lunch was samosas and vegetable pakora, served with a chilli dip and washed down with more Kingfisher.

Following the obligatory sunset drink, for our dinner we chose Seekh Kebab (spiced minced lamb), Khumb Palak (mushrooms simmered in puréed spinach with herbs and spices), Dal Dhaba (green lentils with cumin, onion and tomato) and Tandoori Khatta Aloo (potato marinated in fermented yoghurt and aromatic Indian spices, cooked in a Tandoor). To mop all this up, we had Kulcha, which is a leavened flour bread stuffed with onion and green chilli, then fried - absolutely wonderful …. and so to bed!

In the next installment we'll be moving southeast through Rajastan - next stop Bijaypur.

About The Author
Liz Canham:
As well as a love of Asian cooking as you can see in her Asian Food and Cookery website, Liz seeks to help newcomers to the world of internet marketing with tools, tips and training from her Liz-e-Biz website.
http://lizebiz.com/

Six Mistakes To Avoid At The Taj Mahal

Six Mistakes To Avoid At The Taj Mahal

by: Sandra Wilson

Most of your visit to India’s most-famous attraction is natural and inspiring. If it is your first visit, however, it is easy to make the following mistakes

Mistake 1: Make your visit too short.
Buses have been known to allow as little as half an hour to “see” the Taj Mahal, which is hardly time to walk the length of the reflecting pool. If this is your bus’s timetable, consider finding another. Allow a minimum of two hours to fully savor the “poem in marble.”

Mistake 2: Arrive with no prior knowledge of the Taj Mahal.
The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum and not a palace; it was created by a Mughal king in honor of his wife who died giving birth to their fourteenth child, and it is covered in real marble. There is much more to the story that will enhance your enjoyment of what you will see and feel. Do yourself a favor and enjoy some reading and research beforehand; the more you know, the richer your experience. Guidebooks, such as Eyewitness, are helpful.

Mistake 3: Remain with your guide or group during your entire visit.
After hearing what they have to tell you, leave them and wander to a secluded spot so you can gaze at this wonder of marital love on your own. Carve out time for solitude. Sit on a bench and contemplate the grace, balance, and beauty of Shah Jahan’s creation.

Mistake 4: Limit your visit to the Taj Mahal to only one time of the day.
Throughout daylight, the marble dome reflects sunshine with hues of pink, orange and white. Clouds and rain add additional interest. In Agra, the sky provides a backdrop for the double dome of the Taj Mahal. See as many of these variations as you can. Count yourself blessed if you are able to see the Taj Mahal in the moonlight.

Mistake 5: Become frustrated with the guides and photographers.
It is a popular business to impart information and produce a lasting memory for you at the Taj Mahal. Guides will ask if you want them to tell you about their country’s most famous attraction. Photographers will want to snap shots of you during your visit. Most of them are citizens of the country you are visiting. If you have made plans that exclude your need for their services, refuse with firm courtesy. Your desire for personal viewing time needs to be balanced with their need to work.

Mistake 6: Don’t take any—or enough--pictures.
The Taj Mahal is the single most photographed place in India. You can add to this distinction with your own images. Unless you are certain you will return shortly, visually record your favorite sights while within the walls of the Taj complex. Are you drawn to the walkway? The row of shoes outside the entrance? The black and white pattern of the platform? The inlaid prayer rugs in the mosque? Whatever they are, record details as touchstones for remembered pleasure

From the moment you enter through the gate and stroll along the dazzling, rectangular reflecting pool, the lovely mausoleum will draw you to its marble steps. Slipping off your shoes, you will pass into a softly lit interior, and circle two richly inlaid caskets beneath a great domed ceiling. The carvings on the walls, the spectacular dome, and the harmony of all the details are there for you to admire.

The truth of the matter is you could actually make all the mistakes above and still be touched by the Taj Mahal. It is a sight undiminished by expectations.

About The Author
Sandra Wilson’s historical fiction, reveals the Who, What, Why, When and Where of the Taj Mahal. Go to http://www.taj-womanandwonder.com/ for more information on this highly researched novel.

Rajasthan Hotels Offers

Festive Offers by Rajasthan Hotels During Diwali
by: Arjun Roy

Rajasthan hotels are famous for the ambience that is reminiscent of the royalty of yore. Hotels in Rajasthan are often renovated forts and palaces that have opulence and grandeur hardly found in modern architecture. In October and November, tourism in Rajasthan peaks. This is the festive season. Diwali is just round the corner and the place that is famous for its golden sand, wonderful forts, picturesque palaces and amazing people is decked up for the occasion. Rajasthan hotels add to the crescendo by offering lucrative festive discounts. Book a hotel through www.travelgorajasthan.com and get special discounts on hotel rates.

Hotels in Rajasthan are renowned for immaculate service and warm hospitality. TravelGoRajasthan.com offers some of the best known hotels for booking. Heritage hotels in Rajasthan are in itself unique places of attraction. Enjoy and experience hospitality of a different kind that you have not experienced ever before. Diwali means great news. Even heritage hotels and palace hotels in Rajasthan are offering fantastic Diwali discounts and privileges. This facility can be availed at www.TravelGoRajasthan.com.

In TravelGoRajasthan.com, tourists can find different categories of Rajasthan hotels. There are luxury hotels, palace hotels and heritage hotels. Tourists can also put up in business hotels and budget hotels. People who want to tour Rajasthan during Diwali can book hotels online through TravelGoRajasthan.com and enjoy the luxury of spending a vacation in a heritage hotel or palace hotel at a discounted rate.

TravelGoRajasthan.com is among the very few travelsites that are exclusively devoted to tourism in Rajasthan. The travelsite has a number of premier Rajasthan hotels in its database and even during the peak tourist season the travelsite is able to provide online real time hotel booking. The status of the booking can be seen instantly. Since this is a real time hotel reservation, instant confirmation is displayed. This allows a traveler to plan the tour better.

Rajasthan hotels are falling over one another in a mad race to attract tourists. This is music to the ear for travelers. Avail of the exciting Diwali offers and experience royal hospitality of the beautiful land.

About The Author
Arjun Roy
Content Writer in Travel and Tourism sites.

Rajasthan

The land of rippling sand dunes and spectacular forts & palaces.
By: Michael Braganza

Are you interested in making your holiday vacation a lifetime experience? Are you in the hunt for a place where you can spend your holiday with full of fun and frolic? Do you want to make your holiday a wild and wonderful experience? Starting from a royal and exotic luxury to excessive adventure – a land where diversity in culture, faith, and humankind has its complete strength and is esteemed in full insignia. I am talking about none other than the magical land of Rajasthan, India which is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Aim for tours to Rajasthan? You are most welcome on the magical land of Rajasthan, India. The largest state in India, Rajasthan is considered to be the land of monuments because the desert land of Rajasthan is dotted with many timeless and spectacular forts & palaces. Forts and palaces are the major attraction of Rajasthan, India. Enjoy a holiday in the land of monuments. Stay at spectacular palace hotels like Umaid Bhavan Palace, Samode Palace etc on your Rajasthan tours and practice the lavishness of being treated like a King/Prince.

Explore the magical land of Rajasthan, India and discover its hidden treasures in the barren land. Explore the vibrant and colourful land of Rajasthan, India and enjoy its cultural mosaic that reflects sparkling hues of folk songs, ballads romantic & rhythmic saga of past affairs and heritage brilliance. Find out alluring Rajasthan’s attractions in your Rajasthan tour packages and enjoy the fascination of Rajasthan tour in comforts and well-organized fashion. It is sure to the magical land of Rajasthan won’t fail to captivate you with its magical charisma. Entire land of Rajasthan is dotted with different varieties of fascination.

The largest state in India, Rajasthan has many attractive cities which are also worth visiting and are famous for their special significance. Jaipur also popularly known as the Pink City and the capital of Rajasthan, Jodhpur – the Sun City, Udaipur – the Romantic City, Jaisalmer – the Golden City, Bikaner – the Camel City and Mount Abu – the only hill station of Rajasthan are some major cities of Rajasthan which are amazing and worth visiting. All cities are dotted with many picturesque places of interests and spectacular forts and palaces. During your tours to Rajasthan you will observe that why the land of Rajasthan is called the land of monuments.

The culturally rich land of Rajasthan, India is not only famous for its forts and palaces but also for its rippling sand dunes on the barren desert, natural diversity, flora & fauna and wildlife. The wildlife of Rajasthan is also so much exciting and exhilarating. There are many wildlife sanctuaries in the desert land of Rajasthan, India which are also worth visiting. Visiting wildlife of Rajasthan gives a unique experience on your tours to Rajasthan, India. Over all, the magical land of Rajasthan, India provides everything what a tourist can demand for. So, come to Rajasthan, India – the land of rippling sand dunes and spectacular forts & palaces. Enjoy its amazing attraction on the camel back.

About The Author
Michael Braganza is an eminent analyst and writer in Travel & Tourism related topics. He has authored many books on tour guide for India like Rajasthan Map and Tours to Rajasthan. Now he is rendering his services to http://www.swagattours.com/

Maldives Holidays

By: Peter R Stewart

Before booking a luxury holidays in the Maldives, or a cheap holiday in the Maldives, any hotel in the Maldives, or you might just be looking for any island hideaway in the Maldives, it is important that you know where you are going to, and what you will find when you get there.


Too many people arrive at their holiday destination having chosen it only for the price, and a dubious guarantee of sunshine, and have never investigated their destination for its suitability for themselves and their family. A disastrous vacation can often be rescued by the surrounding countryside, but this won’t be possible in the Maldives, because you are probably going to be trapped on an island, and that hotel in the Maldives may be on an island you can walk round in a few minutes. So you need to know something about where you are going at the very outset.



The Maldives are in fact an archipelago consisting of 1190 low lying coral islands scattered across the equator, in groups of 26 naturally occurring atolls. The Maldives is 45 minutes from Colombo, 3 hours from Dubai, 4 hours from Singapore, and 13 hours from London.


On the map it is in the Indian Ocean just south west from Sri Lanka, and you don’t need a visa.

The Maldives literally sits on top of the Equator so it is a year round 25-30 degrees Celsius, and has frequently been described as paradise on earth.

If your idea of paradise is is a pristine tropical island with swaying palm trees with a pure white sand beach all the way round and then a limpid blue and turquoise sea, then the Maldives is just exactly that.

It is sunny, quite unique, and almost totally unspoiled.

The hotels range from the top of the range giving you the perfect luxury holiday in the Maldives to the other end where there are plenty cheap Maldives Holidays, as well as the total hideaway Maldive islands. They all have one thing in common and that is they are perfect for people who are looking for peace and tranquillity, a chance to rejuvenate and relax. This is not the place to go if you have to spend your holiday visiting places. This is however the place to go if snorkelling or diving are your thing.

It is little wonder that a huge proportion of tourists in the Maldives are returning for a second or third time, simply the place is addictive, with its sun kissed white sand beaches, crystal clear warm lagoons, and multi coloured coral and incredibly exotic marine life. When you consider out of all of the islands only about 200 are inhabited., and of the remaining islands around 100 have become island hotels, there will be more beautiful deserted atolls than you know what to do with.

For more about the Maldives visit http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com/categories/Indian-Ocean-Hideways/The-Maldives/


About The Author
Peter Stewart writes exclusively for http://www.in-kenyasafari.com as well as http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com and he has in depth knowledge of the places he writes about.

Trekking Tour of India

Adventure Trekking Tour of India

by: Amjad Khan

India offers great opportunities for trekking, mountaineering, white water rafting, skiing, hang-gliding, mountain biking, and high altitude motorbike and jeep safaris for adventure enthusiasts.
The Indian Himalaya is a trekker’s paradise. It’s all here, from easy nature walks through pine forests and alpine meadows to tough gradients at high altitudes where sparkling glacial lakes will take your breath away. Pick your choice and enjoy what only the Himalaya can offer.

There is something for everyone. Families can go camping, or stay in hotels that cater for all tastes and budgets.

Hard core adventure seekers can go on expeditions to challenging peaks in the awesome Himalayan ranges. The Indian Himalaya hides exotic places and people. Legendary Ladakh, with its spectacular lunarscape dotted with ancient Buddhist monasteries and breathtaking Nubra and Zanskar valleys. Spiti, a high altitude cold desert valley bordering Tibet and showcasing Buddhist culture. Sikkim, Darjeeling, and Garhwal, each with its own unique Himalayan ambience and experience. All you need to enjoy it is reasonable physical fitness, a budget and the inclination.

For culture vultures, there’s a tantalizing array of historic places and cultures to explore and experience. India is a land of pilgrimage. There are endless holy places, shrines, stupas, gurudwaras, temple towns and holy rivers. You can visit historic monuments. The Taj Mahal, the Temples of Khajuraho, Varansi, Red Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Palaces of Rajasthan and much more.

For nature lovers, India offers jungle safaris, desert safaris in Rajasthan, elephant and tiger reserves, snake parks, house-boats on the backwaters of Kerala, tea gardens and coffee plantations.

The Himalaya provides an environment that promotes exploration and physical activity that ensures the healthy development of children and adults, fostering discipline, mental co-ordination, teamwork and physical fitness.

About The Author
Amjad Khan
For more information on trekking in india, Ladakh, Himachal, Nepal, Bhutan, Sikkim, Himalaya you may visit http://www.himalayanfrontiers.com/
French visitors can visit http://www.himalayanfrontiers.com/french

Tour to Delhi

Tour to Delhi
by: Neeraj Kumar

Delhi has been a major tourist destination and is the perfect holiday destination for the tourists in India. Delhi is the capital of India. It is the largest city of northern India. The rich heritage and cultural past of this metropolitan city gets revealed in many ways.

Amongst the must to visit places during tour to Delhi are its monuments, museums, galleries and other places of interest. The most visiting places in Delhi for the Delhi tour that can not be left unseen are-

"The Red Fort (Lal Qila)", one of Delhi's top tourist sights. A brilliant red sandstone fort built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan (who also built Agra's Taj Mahal) as his ruling palace.

"Jama Masjid", opposite to the Red fort, next to Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi. The largest mosque in India and a must-see while in Delhi tour.

"Humayun's Tomb" is the tomb of the second Mughal emperor Humayun.

"Jantar Mantar" appears like a gallery of modern art.

"India Gate", This monument has been built as a memorial for the Indian soldiers who died in World War One. There is also a fire ("eternal flame") burning for all fallen Indian soldiers.

Apart from these, there are many other places in Delhi like Lotus temple, Museums and Art Treasures, cultural performances and crafts and many more places can be visited during Delhi tour.

Delhi attracts numerous tourists from everywhere in the world to show the glory of the ancient India. This city provides many hotels and resorts to their tourists. There are many budget hotels, luxury hotels, three star hotels, five star hotels and resorts in Delhi that provides a best quality and homely stay to the visitors. Hotels in Delhi welcome the tourists to Delhi for an enticing experience. All hotels in Delhi provide easy access to any place to the city. Luxury hotels in Delhi give the perfect destination for International Traveler looking for elite Delhi hotels.

Hotels and resorts in Delhi can be booked online; visitors can also book some attractive tour packages in Delhi to make their vacation more enjoyable. There are many other cities near to Delhi that can be chosen by the visitors for their vacation. Online booking of hotels and tour packages in Delhi assures the better services and facilities to the tourists.

About The Author
Neeraj Kumar
For more details on Delhi Tours, Hotels in Delhi and Delhi tour packages you can visit www.getsetbook.com, it is an online hotels directory.

Travel Deals to India

Travel Deals to India
by: Mandy Chagger

So you want to visit India? Well, good choice: you'll need to access cheap flight India opportunities. Wild tigers, Buddhist Monasteries, the Lotus Temple and the Taj Mahal ' India is a country rich in beauty, culture, color, and sound. The problem, of course, is getting there ' and finding travel tips to India can be done with just a little thought and preparation.

As always when looking for cheap flight India offers, there are a few things to keep in mind. The biggest key to getting discounted airfare is flexibility: off-season, weekday, or after-hours flights will always be cheaper than a Friday afternoon 4:00 flight to Paris. Enter multiple dates when searching for tickets; Monday and Wednesday may be the same to you, but have a hundred-dollar difference to the airline carrier. Flying right around holidays can be difficult, but flying on a holiday ' such as Thanksgiving ' can be a major steal, since the day itself is a slow one for airlines. Being flexible with your route ' for example, stopovers in Bangkok or Taipei ' may also save you money; instead of looking at it as an extra long flight, see it as an opportunity to experience even more places!

Another tactic for saving money and finding a cheap flight India offer is flying in to a major city in India even if it's not where you're ultimately trying to go. Big airports in Bengal or Calcutta will cost a lot less than a private charter plane to Mynokaleesh, and public transport ' such as train, taxi, or jeep ' is relatively cheap. With this method, of course, you have the added benefit of seeing even more of the country ' something no smart traveler would say no to.

India is a fascinating and vibrant country, with a huge span of culture and diversity. Start in the south, perhaps in Calcutta, and make sure you take a guided tour into the heart of the lush jungles. One of the last places where wild tigers, wolves, and elephants still exist, these vine-entangled forests set the scene for Rudyard Kipling's Jungle Book, an author well worth reading
if you are going to his beloved country.

From the south you will want to work up ' and the north is as different from the south as the east is from the west, so much different. Where on one end you find tropical flowers and exotic spices, on the other you are immersed in towering mountains, Himalayan peaks and steaming cups of fresh-picked Darjeeling Tea. The tea, of course, is a facet in itself of Indian culture; everywhere you go vendors selling hot pots of creamy chai will meet you.

India is chosen as a destination by thousands every year, coming for reasons as varied and complex as the country itself. Student backpackers flock to the country for the rich, delicious and inexpensive food, as well as cheap lodging and amazing sights. Older tourists may come for the history, beauty, and architecture, admiring the stunning expanse of the Taj Mahal and Indian Palaces, while others may come for spiritual reasons, giving honour to the ancient traditions of Buddhism and Hinduism that have made India a Mecca for many spiritual seekers. Hikers and Bikers also come, eager to tackle those royal peaks, scaling the Himalayas and looking across to neighbouring Mount Everest.

India is a country of sharp and striking colours; destitute poverty alongside riches and wealth, dirt and grime against silk and beauty, delicious spices mingling their scents with the smell of elephant manure. Not for the weak stomach, India will explode on your palate, your vision, your ears, and your soul. As always when traveling, there are a few things to be careful of: always keep copies of your passport and important documents somewhere other than your wallet, and keep money or valuables strapped close to your body, not on a loose-strung purse or hanging from a backpack. With a few precautions, however, India is both a warm and friendly place, and one of the safest places on the continent to visit.

The food is an experience in itself ' thick breaded naan, spicy mushroom masala, lentil dal, and rich potato somalas will leave you with cravings you may never get rid of. India is unique in its cuisine, specialising of course in heavily spiced dishes fairly exploding with flavor. The exotic quality of the food mingles well with the sights and sounds ' a scitar player sings loudly as he walks down the street, the monkeys screech from the temple, pots and pans jangle noisily on the back of a water buffalo. No matter what your reasons for coming, your experience in India is bound to be more than you expected. Finding a cheap flight to India is more than a quick trip ' it is a discount ticket to a once in a lifetime adventure.

About The Author
Mandy Chagger
Travel deals to India Tel: 08700 490002 or +44 (0)1780 484824 Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm or Sat - Sun 10am - 4pm or visit http://www.jigsawconferences.co.uk/travel/india/cheap-flights-to-india.aspx or for general travel enquiries visit http://www.jigsawconferences.co.uk/travel Our staff are multilingual and very friendly with many years of experience.

Visit Sri Lanka

Ten Spectacular Things To Do When You Visit Sri Lanka
by: Jonathan Williams

Sri Lanka is an intriguing city to visit with its rich history and culture. Like all other countries, it would be a site to behold when one compares it to what you have been used to. There are several things you can see and do in this place to make this an enriching experience.

1.) Yala National Park
This park is also referred to as Ruhunu National Park and can be located in the southeast region of Sri Lanka. One can start enjoying the refreshing sight of the park. You can also stroll in the area while seeing leopards here from a safe distance.

2.) Temple of the Tooth
Here is the temple which houses the tooth believed to have been one of the Buddha’s teeth and is a relic that they guard in the temple. It is a most sacred site to believers which you may care to visit and view. They even have a website for this in case you’re interested to know more about it.

3.) Colombo
The country’s capital is a nice place to be in where you can visit a few museums for a little trip to history. What you can find are the National Museum, Natural History Museum, Dutch Period Museum, and the Bandaranaike Museum. All attest to several aspects of Sri Lankan history that visitors can view and be amazed at.

4.) Art Galleries
Art lovers will find something to talk about when they go and visit the National Art Gallery. You may also find similar viewing pleasure by visiting the Sapumal Foundation and the Lionel Wendt Center. It is good to see and compare some things that may be different from your own culture with those of others and appreciate the things that we see.

5.) Zoo
The Colombo zoo is a delight for the children and their parents, and this can be found on the southern area of the city. It is indeed a fine place to be in with an aquarium and night house to view, and there are also elephant shows you can watch. Are you fond of butterflies? Then, come on and see their butterfly park and a few more animal exhibits, and it’s quite large so give it at least two hours to make the entire rounds.

6.) Festivals in Jaffna
It will not surprise you to see some more temples to visit in this place. It has the Nallur, Selva Sannithi and Ninatheevu temples. Festivals that are religious in nature is something you would also expect from this place, and there’s the Chariot Festival which is a considered a big event in Sri Lanka as well as the Harvest festival obseved every January.

7.) Kinchigune Nature Trail
This trail starts at the Sabaragamuwa University which runs along a forest and river. By following this trail, you can get to see paddy fields, village houses and vegetables, and this is a way to get a tutorial on their agricultural system and sample simple living the Sri Lankan way. You may also come across waterfalls, a few more birds and butterflies to enjoy the hike.

8.) Canoeing
If canoeing happens to be your favorite pastime, then indulge in the Samanalawewa reservoir with its still waters that make this a good activity to try. You can even paddle to the river of Belihul Oya for more adventure. Or you can simply explore the entire reservoir for a relaxing ride in the water.

9.) Bambarakada Falls
This waterfall is a sight to watch because it is found inside a basin-like valley and surrounded by steep rocks and forest filled with tropic and pine tress. It is the highest known waterfalls in Sri Lanka which tumbles down to a height of 240 meters. Waterfalls will remain a favorite spot for tourists because of its sheer beauty.

10.) Galle
You should not miss the temple Kalutara located in this city. It is considered good luck if you come over to the Seenigama temple and offer a donation after murmuring a little prayer. There’s also the Fort where you can walk through especially to view the majestic sunset.

About The Author
Jonathan Williams is the travel writer for Destination Guide TV - the place to share travel videos. Visit http://www.destinationguide.tv/srilanka to view or share Sri Lanka travel videos.

Visit In Nepal

Top Ten Places To Visit In Nepal

by: Jonathan Williams

Are you ready for some high altitude adventure with in a soul-warming environment? Then pack your bags and experience some of the most majestic peaks, most exhilarating torrents and wonderful people Nepal has to offer. Here are some places you may want to visit when go.

1.) Katmandu
Find your inner peace in the streets of Nepal’s capital and cultural center. You can walk on the streets of this once inaccessible city and experience the culture, the people, the history, and the faith Nepal had embraced, imbibed, and relived for centuries. Katmandu is also one of the Nepal’s starting points in activities like trekking, rafting and other sports.

2.) Royal Chitwan National Park
If you want to experience some jungle adventure with the elephants and ravaging rapids, you may want to stop by Nepal’s Royal Chitwan Park. Covering some 932 sq kilometers, this national park serves as a home for 450 species of birds, 45 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 43 species of mammals. One can also enjoy guided jungle walks, terai culture, wild life breeding project, and safari drives inside 4WD cars.

3.) Nagarkot
Located 32 kilometers east of Katmandu, Nagarkot is a great place to visit if you want to see how beautiful and majestic the Himalayan Mountain range can be. A lookout tower in Nagarkot, for one, enables visitor to have a 360-degree scenic view of the Katmandu valley and Himalayan Mountain peaks. Drive up the city, book for a hotel, wake up early, and experience a different kind of sunrise with cool winds blowing every word away.

4.) Pokhara
Located some 200 kilometers west of Kathmandu, this enchanting city is the rally point for trekking and rafting destination. Pokhara offers perfect scenery and gripping natural beauty not only for those who looks for fun but also for those seeking solace. Be it the preview of the Himalayan Mountain range, a row in Phewa Lake, a trek beside Seti Gandaki River and Devi’s Fall, or a peek to the Mahendra Cave, a trip to Pokhara is a experience worth the journey.

5.) Pashupatinath Temple
Four kilometers east of Katmandu lies a temple of immeasurable sacredness for Hindu people - the Pashupatinath. Hindu believes that dying and being cremated in Pashupatinath and having one’s ashes scattered in Bagmati River will give a Hindu salvation and release from the cycles of birth and rebirth. Have a peek of Hindus life, death and tradition by visiting this holy ground.

6.) Patan
Art lovers and enthusiasts should always put a stop in Patan in their Nepalese trip itinerary. Patan is the oldest city in the Ksthmandu valley and is the home for Nepalese architecture, arts, traditions, and crafts drawing mainly from religious customs. Walk around the city and feel as if you’re walking inside an open museum.

7.) Wildlife Reserve of Koshi Tappu
Sprawling some 175 km2 near the River of Sapta-Koshi in Eastern Nepal, Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is the best place to watch native and migratory birds in action. Thousands of birds converge in this area, especially during the months of January, February and March. The trip which normally includes jungle walks, jeep drives, and boat rides, coupled with treks to Bhutan and Sikkim or rafting trip in Sunkosi will make any Nepalese trip an unforgettable experience.

8.) Lumbini
Lumbini is the perfect place to go to if you are into cultural, archaeological and religious treasures. With the number of stupa, meditation grounds temples, courtyards and more, a walk in Lumbini is a walk with Buddha. Enter the birthplace of one of the greatest man of world religions - Siddharta Gautama, founder of Buddhism - and be captivated by its serene environment and meditate and reflect with its outmost tranquility and peaceful atmosphere.

9.) Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur is an ancient town east of Katmandu in the Katmandu Valley. Experience Nepalese life as it happens in this city by enjoying the scenery in Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Potter’s square. Make your trip complete with a taste of Khopa Dhau, Bhaktapur’s home-made curd.

10.) Royal Bardia National Park
Located in Western Terai, Royal Bardia National Park is the largest park in the region with 968 km2. It serves as a sanctuary for tigers, small and large mammals, deer, reptiles, birds, and a herd of the last known elephants in captivity. Enjoy wildlife as it happens along with short rafting in Karnali and Bheri as well as trekking to Dolpo and Rara lake.

About The Author
Jonathan Williams is the travel writer for Destination Guide TV - the place to share travel videos. Visit http://www.destinationguide.tv/nepal to view or share Nepal travel videos.

Ten Things To Do If You Visit Bangladesh

Ten Things To Do If You Visit Bangladesh
by: Jonathan Williams

Rich culture, beautiful tourist spots, and hospitable people. These are the qualities that all great tourist spots have. And, incidentally, these are also the very qualities that you will find in the beautiful country of Bangladesh.

1.) Catch a glimpse of the Tigers
Tigers, specifically the Royal Bengal Tigers, are magnificent creatures, with their proud and noble bearings and beautifully patterned coats. Watching these tigers gives us a sense of excitement and danger all rolled into one. It’s too bad that they’re endangered, but still, in Bangladesh, you can see these beautiful creatures by visiting the Sundarbans National Park.

2.) Fun in the Sun and Sand
If you’re looking for beautiful blue beaches to sunbathe, to swim, or to simply walk around in, then you must go to Bangladesh’s Kuakata. Kuakata is a beach resort that has been recently developed. It is located in the southern part of Bangladesh, but the sea isn’t the only thing this place offers though, because in Kuakata, you can also observe the culture of the Rakhane Tribe.

3.) World’s Longest and Broadest Beach
If any old beach just doesn’t cut it, why don’t you try going to Inani beach found in the South of Bangladesh. It is the world’s longest and broadest beach and is found in Cox’s Bazar. Inani Beach, however, is not as developed as the other beaches such as Patenga, so if you want all the tourist perks, then it’s probably best if you just go to Patenga

4.) Boating through Bangladesh
If you’re in the mood for boating through the rivers and observing the lush jungles in Bangladesh, then you could try going the Sunderbands National Park. This is a park with several beautiful areas which can only be accessed by using a row boat. If you’re lucky, you’ll also see some of its beautiful wildlife.

5.) Try some Fresh Water
If you’re tired of the salty waters of Bangladesh’s beaches, why don’t you try going to the Rangamati Hill district where the Kapati Lake is located? There, you can indulge in several activities such as swimming, sailing, and fishing. The Kapati Lake is an ideal destination for anyone who likes peaceful outings rather than busy and noisy ones.

6.) Cleanse your Soul with Some Tea
People who don’t like the strong taste of coffee usually prefer the much smoother and cleaner taste of tea. So, if you’re a tea fan, you certainly can’t miss going to Sylhet, located just North of Dhaka. Sylhet is known for its tea-growing traditions, and Srimongol, a place in Sylhet, is the center of the tea gardens in Sylhet.

7.) Games up!
If you want to satiate your sporty side and get away from nature a bit, why not head on to the City Stadium? There, you can enjoy a game of hockey, football, and cricket. You might even get a chance to play with the locals in the playgrounds if you so choose.

8.) Go Bird Watching
If you want to see a sample of Bangladesh’s exotic wildlife, why not go to Rajendrapur National Park, located just 31 miles north of the capital city. Bring your binoculars with you, maybe even your camera and take a few snapshots of the beautifully colored birds residing in the area.

9) Take a walk in the Zoo
Unfortunately, being constantly on the move to look for various animals can be slightly tiring. And there’s always the chance that you’ll get disappointed at the end of the day because of the poor turnout. If you don’t like taking this risk, why not just go to the National Zoo located at Mirpur near the River Turag?

10) The City of Mosques
If you’re going to Bangladesh, you absolutely can’t miss going to Dakha, the city of Mosques. The wonderful architecture and designs are to die for. Visit Baitul Mukkaram Mosque, the Star Mosque, and the Chawkbazar Mosque, and you’ll be sure to gape in awe at the magnificent designs.

About The Author
Jonathan Williams is the travel writer for Destination Guide TV - the place to share travel videos. Visit http://www.destinationguide.tv/bangladesh to view or share Bangladesh travel videos.

Pilgrim Centres in Kerala

Pilgrim Centres in Kerala
by: Dev Sri

Kerala pilgrim centres receive pilgrims from all over India and around the world. You feel the tout God’s own Country literally true when you see a number of pilgrim centres in Kerala. This land is interspersed with Hindu, Muslim and Christian pilgrim centres.

The most famous Kerala Hindu pilgrim centres include Sabarimala Ayyapa Temple, atop a mountain named Sabarimala, Agastyarkoodam towards the southern part of Western Ghats etc. River Pampa hosts both Christian and Hindu religious conventions in the summer. Malayatoor in Central Kerala and Kurisumala in South are pilgrim centres to Christians.

Sivagiri and Aruvippuram are now two pilgrim centers that remind us of the extra ordinary courage of a sanyasin named Sree Narayana Guru. Beema Palli at Thiruvananthapuram is an important pilgrimage center for Muslims in Kerala.

Pilgrimage to Sabarimala

Sabarimala is a pilgrim centre in Kerala in the Western Ghat mountain ranges of India. Lord Ayyappan's temple is situated here in the midst of 18 hills. The pilgrimage to Sabarimala is a singular example of one where pilgrims, without consideration of caste, creed, position or social status, go with one mind and one `mantra' dreaming constantly of the darshan of the presiding deity at the Holy Sannidhanam.

Vehicles can go up to Pampa. Thereafter, pilgrims have to follow a path approximately four kilometres up a steep hill. The path, now fully cemented, with shops and medical aid by the sides, used to be a mere trail through dense forest.

Pilgrimage at Sivagiry

Sivagiri, a hillock at Varkala is the final resting place of the great social reformer, Sree Narayana Guru. This is an important centre of pilgrimage. This great soul's visions and teachings have great relevance in the modern world. The Guru throughout his life highlighted the simple truth that all human beings are equal creations of the god almighty and meticulously advocated the value of mutual respect, brotherliness and solidarity.

Guruvayoor

The Guruvayur Shri Krishna Temple is one of the most important and sacred pilgrim centres of Kerala. It is located in Guruvayur town of Thrissur district in Kerala, India and is easily accessible by road and rail. The presiding deity is MahaVishnu, in the standing posture with four hands which carry a Sankhu (conch), Sudarshana chakram (a serrated disk), lotus and mace. He is worshipped as Balakrishna, the full avatar (Purnaavatara) of Mahavishnu. The idol is made of a rare stone known as Patala Anjana.

The Attukal Temple

Attukal is a Hindu pilgrim center in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. The Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, one of the ancient temples of South India, is popularly described as Sabarimala of the Women. In Attukal temple, the Pongala Mahotsavam is a ten-day programme which starts on the Karthika star of the Malayalam month of Makaram-Kumbham (February-March) and closing with the sacrificial offering known as Kuruthitharpanam at night.
Kerala Christian Pilgrim Centres

St. Sebastian's Aruthunkal is one of the most important pilgrim centres of the Christians in Kerala, popularly known as St. Sebastian Church, 22 kms. North of Alleppey.Blessed Alphonsa, Bharananganam is one of the important pilgrim centres of the Christians in Kerala. St. Mary's Church (Valiapally), St. Francis Church, Fort Kochi, St. George Church, Edappally, Kochi,St. Mary's Church,Vallarpadam,Kochi, Christ the King Church, Thiruvananthapuram are some of the Christian pilgrim centres.

Islamic Pilgrim Centres

Cheraman Juma Masjid, Kodungallore, Ottapalam Juma Masjid, The Jama-at mosque, Malappuram, Pazhayangadi Mosque, Kondotti etc are famous for Islamic pilgrimage.
Kerala also believes unity in diversity and we can come across the pilgrim centres of different religious faiths all over Kerala.

About The Author
Dev Sri invites you to try adventure tours of Kerala. With Adventure Kerala (http://www.adventurekerala.org/), you will enjoy adventure sports like mountaineering, rapelling, rock climbing, river crossing, and a whole lot of adventure activities.

Waterfalls in Kerala

Waterfalls in Kerala
by: Dev Sri

Kerala is famous for its picturesque waterfalls. The special beauty of waterfalls in Kerala is something one must experience in a life time. To spend a romantic day beside the gurgling, whispering and laughing waters of the waterfalls of the Kerala is a stunning experience.

Combined with greenery Kerala waterfalls infuse freshness into any tired soul. The cool, misty waters cascading down in the backdrop of hick green forest and rocky terrain are a scintillating experience to visitors.

During the season of monsoon the rivers and water bodies of Kerala are experiencing a new lease of life and it is the best time to venturing out in the woods and watch a waterfall in its full glory. The forests nearby the kerala waterfalls are also a great spot to watch birds and also other species of fauna and flora. A trail along the stream to explore the sights on either side is another option while watching some of the waterfalls.

Famous Waterfalls of Kerala

Athirappally & Vazhachal - The scenic beauty of Vazhachal (63 km from Thrissur) catches your attention the moment you enter the area dominated by the Sholayar ranges. Falling from a height of 80 feet, the Vazhachal waterfall presents an awe inspiring scene for tourists to view and enjoy. Athirappally fall is 5 km away from the Vazhachal waterfall merges with the water of the Chalakudy river after falling from atop. Both these waterfalls with their pure and clean water are completely mesmerizing for visitors.

Thomankuttu - Thomankuttu is well known for its beautiful waterfalls. Lying at a distance of 74 km from Cochin, the seven steps Thomankuttu waterfalls is splendid in its beauty and charm. Each step provides a cascade and a pool beneath. Numerous caves surround the waterfall which has emerged as a hotspot for tourists wishing to chill out.

Palaruvi - At a distance of 75 km from Kollam and at the Kerala - Tamil Nadu border lies the beautiful Palaruvi waterfall. Rushing down from a height of 300 feet and with numerous other smaller cascades surrounding it, the Palaruvi waterfall appears more like a fall of milk. The pool below where the water falling down collects is ideal for swimming

Power House Waterfall - While on your way to view the magnificent wildlife of the Periyar Sanctuary from Munnar, stop by to view the Powerhouse Waterfall. They are a visual treat for eyes. Falling from a great height of 2000 m, the fall takes its spectator by surprise due its beauty. Western Mountain ranges surrounding it add to its beauty.

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall - Another ideal picnic spot for the tourists, the Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls falls from a height of 100 feet. The highlights of this waterfall are numerous streams that make their way through the landscape occupied with rubber plantation.

About The Author
Dev Sri invites you to try adventure tours of Kerala. With Adventure Kerala (http://www.adventurekerala.org/), you will enjoy adventure sports like mountaineering, rapelling, rock climbing, river crossing, and a whole lot of adventure activities.

Beaches in Kerala

Beaches in Kerala
By: Dev Sri

The Kerala beaches have a wide variety of options to enjoy. The glistening beaches of Kerala are picture perfect. They make for serene walks and calming conversations. One can also indulge in a plethora of water sports activities and beach bumming here. Those who search solitude and seclusion can also get from the beaches of Kerala. A vacation exploring on Kerala beaches will leave you asking for more.

Beach vacation plan will offer rest for the weary career-person, rejuvenation for the aged that don’t do well in colder climes and add to the elements of fun, frolic and adventure for the younger lot!

Nature intended the many beaches of Kerala to being gathering places offering welcoming, sunny spots for sun-worshippers and the adventurous at heart, who love to ride the untamed waves and enjoy the thrills of many water sports. The variety and distinct taste of coastal cuisine, endless scope for shopping and spa treatments makes up the rest of the best beach vacations in Kerala ideal

All the famous beaches of Kerala are offering natural beauty moments captured by sunset cruises, surfing and swimming and relaxing ayurveda massage with special natural herbal oils. The Kerala beautiful beaches have their own unique significance. With its unique charm and fascination, beaches of Kerala never fail to allure you.

Kovalam Beach

Kovalam is on of the natural bay on the Arabian Sea cost of Kerala and with its blue waters, white sand and green coconut trees look like a picture card image of a tropical paradise. Today Kovalam is known as the "paradise of the south"

Azure water and favourable climate make Kovalam a favourite-year round spot for swimming. Many people from different countries and cultures intermingle with each other and get together in this charming beach is just 10 km from the state capital Thiruvananthapuram.

Varkala Beach

The Varkala Beach also known as Papanasam Beach is famous for its mineral springs. It is believed that bathing in the beach will wash away all of one's sins. The beach landscape, rocky cliff ends and everything are striking sites.

The sunset at Kerala beaches are truly breathtaking with the sun sinking into the sky like a ball of molten gold as the sun and sea are tinged with crimson and vermillion. Every kind of outdoor recreational and adventure activities are available at Kerala beaches. The special ayurvedic resorts near the beaches provide natural care and cure to both the mind and body of the visitor.

The list of beaches in Kerala is numerous. Alappuzha Beach, Bekal Beach, Beypore Beach, Cherai Beach, Ezhimala Beach, Fort Kochi Beach, Kappad Beach, Kappil Beach, Marari Beach, Payyambalam beach, Shanghumukham Beach, Somatheeram Beach, Thangassery Beach, Thirumullavaram Beach and Vallikunnu Beach are some of the other beaches of Kerala. The predominent beaches offer the life time experience for the visitors.

About The Author
Dev Sri invites you to try adventure tours of Kerala. With Adventure Kerala (http://www.adventurekerala.org/), you will enjoy adventure sports like mountaineering, rapelling, rock climbing, river crossing, and a whole lot of adventure activities.

Water Rafting in Kerala

White water rafting is a popular type of outdoor sport which attracts every outdoor sport lovers. Also called simply rafting, white water rafting is an exciting aquatic adventure that can be enjoyed by individuals of all skill levels with proper guidance and instruction


White water rafting uses specialized rubber rafts that are very sturdy and flexible. These rafts can accommodate a wide range of people, depending on need and build, although eight to ten individuals is a standard number. All the rafters have paddles, which are used to guide and propel the raft through the water. With a trained guide, it is possible to have a raft with only one or two experienced people and a crew of novices, depending on the difficulty of the waters being rafted.

The excitement in white water rafting comes from the white water, a term referring to the level of turbulence in the river, or rapids. White water can be caused by changes in elevation to the riverbed, rocks or other obstacles in the water, and flow from snow melt and rain. White water rapids have a range of classes, from one, which indicates small, slow moving rapids that are safe for all levels of experience, to six, which indicates a dangerous and perhaps .


When done with safety in mind white water rafting is a great adventure sport is great fun and fantastic way to get in touch with the outdoors.


White Water Rafting in Kerala


Kerala Rivers provide excellent opportunities for white water rafting. Bhoothathankettu is a perfect destination in Kerala for the white water rafting. Kerala being the land of rivers, lagoons and lakes in the interiors and the sea on the west, makes it an ideal destination for those inclined to white water rafting for relaxation and adventure.


Be swept along a rushing river in a rubber raft, tumble over rapids, plunge over waterfalls and feel the icy spray splash on your face, as your raft races along a mountain river in Kerala. Experience the thrill of white water rafting in Kerala.


River rafting in Kerala is an exhilarating experience that you can enjoy on your Indian Holiday. One of the best regions for river rafting in India is the Kerala White water rafting on Kerala Rivers is a popular adventure tourism activity in summer in South India, Kerala.


You will be given training by experienced river rafting instructors and guides. You will travel in groups in rafts, with an instructor at all times. Life jackets and other essential safety equipment are provided. You can stay overnight in luxury tents, pitched on beaches alongside the river, as we halt each night. You can also enjoy campfires and bonfire nights on river rafting tours in South India, Kerala. As you swoop and tumble over the rapids with exotic names such as 'Roller Coaster;' 'Crossfire' and 'The Wall' you will feel the excitement and heart-racing thrill of white water rafting.


About The Author

Dev Sri invites you to try adventure tours of Kerala. With Adventure Kerala (http://www.adventurekerala.org/), you will enjoy adventure sports like mountaineering, rapelling, rock climbing, river crossing, and a whole lot of adventure activities.

Parasailing in Kerala

Parasailing in Kerala
by: Dev Sri

Parasailing is a sport for outdoor adventure sport lovers, involving a parachute and a boat. The person practicing parasailing is attached to a parachute and then tied to a motorboat, which drives off, getting, and keeping, the person off the ground. Parasailing is considered by many a hobby rather than a sport, since the person on the parachute has no control over movement and speed and therefore becomes simply a passenger. Some countries perform parasailing without a boat, by attaching the person to a land vehicle. This is, however, considered more dangerous, and only recommended to those who have some practice in parasailing beforehand.

Parasailing can be practiced by anybody, as it does not require any specific skill except the ability to swim.

Parasailing in Kerala

Kerala, God's own country and also known as the land of water bodies as it is bordered by the Arabian Sea at one side and has an intricate mesh of lazuline backwaters, lakes and 44 rivers with their extensive tributaries and distributaries. Thus availability of such a large number of bodies of water make Kerala a fine destination for water sports and thrilling activities like Catamaran Sailing, Kayaking, Snorkelling, Wind Surfing, Canoeing and obviously Para Sailing.

Such adventurous activities are arranged by numerous Beach Resorts and Sports club. Every beach offers different type of activities owing to the depth of the water and other favourable resources.

Parasailing has gained great popularity among the youngsters. It is a perfect sport for those who are brimming with enthusiasm and zest for life, for those who are not afraid of heights and who are the lovers of risks. Best time-Parasailing can be done anytime except for monsoons.

The Varkala Beach which is located about 51 km from Thiruvananthapuram, offers scuba diving, parasailing, deep sea fishing and windsurfing .The Alappuzha Beach also offers water sports activities. There are three kinds of parasailing- Platform Parasailing, Beach Parasailing and Winch boat Parasailing.

The best season to enjoy parasailing in Kerala would be October to March. The skies are clear and cloudless, as the rain clouds have poured already. The temperature and flow of wind is really ideal to enjoy the ride and one can enjoy the pleasure of viewing the clear sky and the beauty of water below while parasailing.

In Kerala there’s nothing quite like being winched out into the sky with the parasail billowing out behind you. You’ll rise one hundred metres into the air, and then the ride is up to you. Sit back and enjoy the feeling of being suspended in the air with nothing between you and the open environment, or ask for a wild ride where you’re unceremoniously dunked into the water before being hoisted back into the sky.

If you're after a real thrill that will turn you into a human kite for a while, then parasling in Kerala is for you. You also don't need any sort of skill. Experienced operators will make sure you are strapped into your harness good and proper, and then all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride of a lifetime.

About The Author
Dev Sri invites you to try adventure tours of Kerala. With Adventure Kerala (http://www.adventurekerala.org/), you will enjoy adventure sports like mountaineering, rapelling, rock climbing, river crossing, and a whole lot of adventure activities

Kayaking in Kerala

Kayaking in Kerala Backwaters
by: Dev Sri

Kayaking is a recreational sport in which participants use specialized boats called kayaks in a wide variety of waterways. Kayaks are boats which take a number of forms, depending on the function for which they are designed. People can take kayaking trips on the ocean, up rivers, in surf zones, and along white water courses. Participants can often have minimal skills and still greatly enjoy themselves. Some people take kayaks with them when they travel to go kayaking, and others rent kayaks or participate in guided kayaking trips at a destination.

A kayak is a boat with a covered deck and a small hole for someone to sit in. The legs of the sitter are concealed, warm and dry, inside the boat. They were originally designed for use in the Arctic, where cold water spilling into a boat could potentially be dangerous for someone using it. Many traditional kayaks were custom made for the individual user. Kayaks are propelled using double bladed oars, and they can be quite rapid and manoeuvrable.

For kayaking camping trips, waterproof bags which can be stuffed into the kayak are extremely useful. Longer kayaks often have a separate hatch for stowing gear. Kayak camping is a great way to explore the outdoors from the water, pulling ashore to hike, camp, or eat.

Kayaking in Kerala

Kayaking is the best way to explore the backwaters of Kerala. The environmental impact is minimal and the expedition provides an opportunity to meet up with the villagers, understanding their culture and enjoying their hospitality and a lot of other things.

A kayaking trip on the beautiful Periyar and the world famous backwaters of Kerala is a combination of nature while on the Periyar and the village life while on the backwaters. Tourists can indulge in kayaking in the backwaters of Kerala like the Alappuzha, Kottayam, Kozhikode and Thiruvallam and around the mountain where the rivers flow. The scenic landscape is a treat for those kayaking in Kerala

Backwaters, a large garland of lagoons, lakes, rivers & canals are exclusive to Kerala. The most elaborate and spectacular stretch are near the ancient port city of Alleppey.

As you kayak down these narrow rivulets, lakes and lagoons, what you see will give you a ringside view of life along the backwaters – unhurried and unspoiled, friendly and welcoming

As you kayak down these narrow rivulets, lakes and lagoons, what you see will give you a ringside view of life along the backwaters – unhurried and unspoiled, friendly and welcoming

Accommodation is arranged at well-appointed Heritage Villas, country homes and small family-owned resorts. Ethnic food, unseen stretches of backwaters and genuine small world hospitality makes this experience stand out.

The wide range of backwaters and beaches in Kerala offers stunning experience for the kayaking fans. A life time experience filled with enthusiasm, pleasure, adventure and knowledge of Kerala life style and culture

About The Author
Dev Sri invites you to try adventure tours of Kerala. With Adventure Kerala (http://www.adventurekerala.org/), you will enjoy adventure sports like mountaineering, rapelling, rock climbing, river crossing, and a whole lot of adventure activities.

Bahamas Vacation Guide

A Bahamas Vacation Travel Guide
by: Gordon Steven

A Bahamas Vacation has always sounded like paradise on earth, but did you know that when you travel to the Bahamas you aren’t just going to one island, but many.

Travelling from one end of the Bahamas to the other, not only are there the well known islands like Grand Bahama, The Abacos, Eleuthera, and Exuma, but the Bahamas is in fact a country of 700 islands, of which 23 are inhabited but there are many many unpopulated islets and cays.

The differences to be found between different islands is also extreme, when you take cosmopolitan Nassau and compare it to the desert like Inagua. As you can imagine being only fifty miles off the Florida Coast, the Bahamas are very much an American playground, indeed on a lot of the islands the tiny villages could almost be the same as ones found on the coast of Massachusetts, only the palms, and sands are different.

A Bahamas Vacation has long been popular with sailors because the sea is calm, there are cooling tradewinds and this is the home of the Gulf Stream which makes the climate so pleasant. The Gulf Stream also is the reason that there are so many large fish, and a general abundance of marine life, so a lot of people travel to the Bahamas for a vacation just for the sport fishing.

No vacation in the Bahamas would be complete without spending time either snorkelling or scuba diving. The Gulf Stream is again responsible for the sheer underwater delights, the spectacular shoals of fish which congregate around the reefs, which are over 5% of the total number of coral reefs in the world. You will never tire of this underwater technicolour fantasy world in the Bahamas.

Probably more people take a Bahamas Vacation because of the beauty of the beaches than anything else and no Bahamas trip would be complete without a visit to the pink sands of Harbour Island and Eleuthera.

Having said that there are more beaches in the Bahamas than you could ever visit in your entire life, but you should take the time to go to the Exumas and San Salvador where you will almost be alone on their beautiful beaches.

After you are sated by the beautiful beaches and everything the sea has to offer you on your Bahamas Vacation, why not go ashore and just enjoy the sheer spellbinding beauty of the Bahamas Islands. You can fly from island to island or just take a flight to see the amazing sight of the white sand, green islands, coral keys, turquoise sea, lovely little villages, all totally unforgettable.

On the ground why not hire a bicycle and explore, then of course there are the masses of other things to do on dry land. Your vacation in the Bahamas could consist of staying in one of the many world class properties and hotels that dot the islands, playing tennis, golf on beautiful championship courses.

Shoppin g is another delight on your vacation to the Bahamas in one of the island’s shopping arcades. If you like to gamble then there are casinos, but then again there really is nothing like sitting on a pink sand beach with a good book, a cool drink, surrounded by your family.

A Bahamas Vacation can bring you close to paradise on earth.

For more information on Caribbean Vacation Spots go to http://www.caribbean-vacationspots.com/pages/Site-Map.html

The Top Beach Resort In The Turks And Caicos Providenciales Island

The Top Beach Resort In The Turks And Caicos Providenciales Island
by: Gordon Steven

Some research into The Tuscany Resort on Grace Bay, Providenciales Island Turks and Caicos to see if it would be a good choice for your Caribbean Vacation

Looking for a Turks and Caicos Resort on Providenciales, then look no further than The Tuscany Resort on Grace Bay.

It is the newest build, and so is at the end of the line, which makes it calm and peaceful compared to other resorts. There are 30 luxury suites, in this extremely private luxurious boutique resort.

The Tuscany Resort has been described as completely unbelievable, and so well thought out that it never seems to be crowded.

The suites in this gorgeous Turks and Caicos Resort are all 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom, so they are perfect for families or groups of friends. It’s especially good for a group of friends because each bedroom has its own bathroom They are all beautifully decorated and equipped including a huge kitchen, a laundry room, and a very large well screened patio which opens off the large dining and living area, and is designed to give a floor to ceiling panoramic view of Grace Bay and the incredible turquoise sea that lies beyond it. Having said that it is important to avoid the first floor doesn’t have a view. Best of all try to get a suite on the fourth floor, and another tip is to avoid the middle suite because they are darker, and also you need to request a room on the outside of the building.

The décor of the suites are quite incredible with a tropical theme. The sun loungers, more chaise longues really give you the perfect end to the perfect day, with a glass of wine gazing at the Reef as the sun sets in an amazing display of different colours.

You won’t need the air conditioning, because of the cool breezes coming in through the doors.

Although the Tuscany resort has no restaurant you will find plenty within a short walking distance and in your suite you have everything you will need for a truly remarkable Turks and Caicos Resort Vacation.

One of the best things for many people is the fact that you can get massages in your room from Spa Tropique, just a phone call away. It could be a great way to spend the day, by going down to the beach for a swim, up to your suite for a massage, and then back to the beach again!

As to be expected in a high quality Turks and Caicos resort the pool is great, and the temperature is about right. Because the beach at Grace Bay is so nice you could well have the pool almost to yourself much of the time. It would however be a shame not to go to the beach, and you needn’t worry about be hassled by hawkers and vendors because it is illegal on the Turks and Caicos Islands. The beach and the water are so very clean it is amazing, so clear that you can see the fish in the water from the beach.

There are lots of restaurants to choose from close to the resort, varying from shacks to high quality high priced places, but excellent food to suit every palate and pocket.

The Tuscany Resort is a new kid in town, with a fast growing reputation, and if you want a quiet relaxing Turks and caicos Resort On Providenciales Island on Grace Bay then why look further than here?

For more information go to http://www.caribbean-vacationspots.com/categories/Turks-and-Caicos-Islands/

Portugal - Silver Coast. A taste of life and hospitality

Portugal - Silver Coast. A taste of life and hospitality
by: Villas Luz, Lda.

All of this is now less than an hour drive from Lisbon International airport along the new A8 motorway, linking the vibrant capital of Portugal with historic Oporto in the North. As there is also a proposed new international airport to be located at OTA, this little known region is opening its doors to the outside world. For decades the Algarve has been the only realistic location for overseas buyers to enjoy the unique hospitality of the Portuguese, but prices there have put it out of reach for most. Now we are pleased to invite you to experience the heart of Portugal - a secret we can all share.

A region for life

Exploring the tranquil towns, villages and countryside of this beautiful region will confirm to you that here is a place that genuinely has the best of both worlds. Whilst offering a life of rural calm amidst the spectacular scenery, at the same time it is perfectly equipped with access to all the modern facilities of transport, healthcare, education and leisure that make life a pleasure for all generations. The Western Region enjoys entertainments and events throughout the year: concerts, art exhibitions, the Torres carnival - 'the most Portuguese event in Portugal', the Caldas da Rainha ceramics and fruit fairs, the Bombarral wine festival, Peniche's Festas da Nuestra Senhora da Boa Viagem, the Montejunto popular festival (Cadaval), Alenquer's Feira da Ascensao, festivals in Sobral, Monte Agraco and Arruda dos Vinhos, Feiras da Cebola e das Tasquinhas and hundreds more fairs, festivals and popular gatherings. The region has many hotels with superb facilities and innumerable restaurants, bars and lively venues which ensure that one's first visit to the Western region is never the last. For golf enthusiasts the Western Region is the new destination in Portugal. Golf Courses at Praia d'el Rey (18 holes)and Rio Maior (18 holes) are complemented by 9-hole courses at Consolação and Porto Novo - Bom Sucesso and Perola da Lagoa 18-hole courses are actually already under construction and the brand new project of the 18-hole course of Foz do Arelho, which will be the hugest should begin within the year 2007. The natural abundance of the area is enhanced by beautiful fine-sanded beaches, where the sands shimmer like silver, at Santa Cruz, Porto Novo, Areia Branca, S. Bernardino, Consolação, Peniche, Baleal, Foz do Arelho and Salir do Porto. Local crafts can be found in Peniche, which is notable for its lace, and in Caldas da Rainha, which is one of the most important centres for ceramics in Portugal. The new Peniche recreation centre is a base for water sports, with a haven of fishing and scuba-diving in Berlenga.

Santa Cruz and Peniche (Supertubos beach and Lagide beach) are the places for surf lovers. The Obidos lake has sailing, rowing and windsurfing. Montejunto, Serrado Socorro and Santa Rita beach are the main locations for paragliding and hang-gliding. The Santa Cruz aerodrome, with its flying school, offers flights in light aircraft and gliders. There are equestrian centres in the Hotel Golf Mar, in Marquiteira (Lourinha), in Atouguia da Baleia - at the Quinta das Tripas and the Quintas de Bom Sucesso - Lourinha, S. Sebastido - Arruda dos Vinhos, Quinta da

Ferraria and Cortisada - Rio Maior.

A region for health

Healthcare facilities are modern and efficient and offer a good range of public and private services for all your requirements. In addition the region offers several thermal baths: Vimeiro (digestive system, circulatory system, respiratory system and skin), Cucos (metabolic and endocrine systems, rheumatics, muscular and skeletal systems) and Torres Vedras and Caldas da Rainha - the oldest in Europe (respiratory system, rheumatics, muscular and skeletal systems).

A region for Gourmets

Gastronomy in the region is rich and varied: there are many delicious pork dishes, oven baked kid, stewed rabbit with rice, celebrated fish stews, baked or boiled sea bream and rock bass from Peniche, eels and cockles from the Obidos lake and shellfish from the beds at Porto de Barcas (lagosta suada - 'sweating lobster' - is a delicacy which can only be found in the Western Region). The gastronomical influence of history is evident in trouxas de ovos, lampreias de ovos (sweet dishes made with eggs) and cavacas (light crisp cakes) from Caldas da Rainha, bean pies from Torres Vedras and paes de lo (sponge cakes) from Landal, Painho and Rio Maior. All are complemented by the taste and aroma of apples and pears.
The Western region is also one of the largest wine growing areas in Portugal and indeed the world. The area boasts full-bodied, aromatic red wines with excellent alcoholic content: the wines of the south (castas Camarate, Periquita and Tinto Miudo) are lively when young, intense yet well balanced and with an exquisite bouquet when aged. The white wines of the north are deliciously fruity (castas Arinto, Fernao Pires, Vital). Out of this diversity, the wine-growing areas of Obidos and Alenquer, Arruda dos Vinhos and Torres Vedras were born in 1989. The region is also known for its light wines with lower alcohol content, and for the only DOC (controlled standard of origin) classified brandy in Portugal - Aguardente Vinica from Lourinha.

PORTUGAL - COSTA DE PRATA - THE SILVER COAST

Aveiro in the north is unique: it is criss-crossed by canals grandly embroidered with art nouveau houses and spanned by hump- backed bridges. Here in colourfully painted 'moliceiro' boats, seaweed is gathered in the vast saltwater lagoon. Further inland you can sample the curative waters of the elegant thermal spa towns of Luso and Curia, fashionable since early this century. And in the Bucaco forest nearby, stands the Palace Hotel, resplendent with turrets, arched galleries and an enormous marble staircase: a perfect hideaway for romantics.

The lively University city of Coimbra is a mixture of ancient and modern. Its streets are filled with the chatter of black-caped students and the soulful tones of fado. The university library, one of the best in Europe, is a Baroque fantasy where the rooms each lead into the next creating a telescope-like effect. The old Cathedral is one of the most important examples of Romanesquc architecture in Portugal. In the Marchado de Castro Museum, you'll find religious art treasures and can actually explore the ruins of the Roman crypt over which the museum was built. An even more impressive sight is the nearby Roman city of Conimbriga. On the west coast, the town of Figueira da Foz has vast beaches and a famous casino.

Further south is the charming town of Leiria with its crenulated walls towering high above an almost perpendicular rock. From May to October, the roads nearby are lined with pilgrims - many on foot - visiting the famed shrine of Fatima where three shepherd children claimed to have seen visions of the Virgin Mary.

Thirty four kilometres east is Tomar where the bastion of the Knights Templar later became the Convento de Cristo. Tales of mystery and hidden treasures echo around it's cloisters and its crowning glory is the ornate Manueline window.

Another magical place is the Castle of Almmourol, just south, which stands on a tiny island and is steeped in legends of giants and knights.

Further opulent architecture can he discovered at Batalha in the Santa Maria da Vitoria Monastery, with its flying buttresses, gargoyles, pinnacles and the intricate stonework of its cloisters. Close to this is one of Portugal's most awe-inspiring monuments: the Monastery of Alcobaca, which has been given UNESCO world heritage status. The kitchen, with ovens big enough to roast six oxen at once, even has two streams converging through it into one. The monastery also contains the tombs of King Pedro and Ines de Castro whose passionate love story has inspired writers and poets all over the world. Many of the farming methods and agricultural science of the region introduced by the Cistercian monks are still in evidence today.

The delightful town of Obidos, with white houses adorned with bougainvilleas and honeysuckle was captured from the Moors by the first king of Portugal, D. Afonso Henriques, in 1148. D. Dinis later presented it to his wife, Queen Santa Isabel. From then until 1883, the town of Obidos and the surrounding land was always the property of the queens of Portugal.

Encircled by a ring of medieval walls and crowned by the Moorish castle rebuilt by D. Dinis, which is now a pousada, Obidos is one of the most perfect examples of our medieval fortress. As in olden times, the town is entered through the southern gate of Santa Maria, embellished with eighteenth-century azulejo decoration.

Inside the walls, which at sunset take on a golden colouring, one can sense a cheerful medieval ambience of winding streets, old whitewashed houses bordered with blue or yellow, Manueline embrasures and windows, reminding us that King D. Manuel I (sixteenth century) carried out major works here, and masses of colourful flowers and plants.

Be sure to visit the Igreja Matriz de Santa Maria (Parish Church of Santa Maria), the pretty Capela de Sao Martinho (Chapel of S. Martinho) and, outside the town walls, the Igreja do Senhor da Pedra (Church of the Senhor da Pedra).

Among the events that take place every year in Obidos, the most important are the Holy Week Festivities (recreating the steps on the Way of the Cross), the Ancient Music Festival in October and, for the more gluttonous, the International Chocolate festival in November, which includes an international competition in which the recipes are judged by an international jury of experts.

Fatima - With its origins deep in history, it was during the Arabian occupation that this settlement developed and was named. According to legend, during the Christian Reconquest, the Templar knight Goncalo Hermingues, also known as Bringer-of-Moors, fell in love with Fatima, a Moor captured in the course of an ambush. Reciprocating the love, the young woman converted to Christianity and adopted the name Oureana.

In the sixteenth century, the settlement became a parish in the collegiate church of Ourem within the Diocese of Leiria.

Its subsequent development dates from the events known as the Apparitions of Fatima, in the early part of the twentieth century. It has become one of the key centres for the Cult of the Virgin Mary in Portugal and has been recognised world-wide by the Catholic Church.

The first apparition took place in 1917, in Cova da Iria, at the site of the current Sanctuary. The most important celebrations are held on 13th May (including the Candlelit Procession on the night of the 12th and the Farewell Procession closing the event on the 13th) and 13th October. Furthermore, the 13th of every month between these two dates is also a day of devotion.

For those interested in the historical context of the apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima, visits can be made to the houses of the shepherd witnesses in the village of Aljustrel.

In the gardens of Casa de Lucia, there is a monument commemorating the second apparition of the Angel of Peace and the end of the Via Sacra which begins in the Sanctuary.

Along this route, there are 14 chapels donated by Hungarian Catholic refugees in the West. Of particular note is Valinhos, 400 metres from the village where monuments commemorate the fourth apparition in 1917 as well as the place chosen by the angel. Here, in 1916, the shepherds saw the Angel of Peace for the first and third times.

On the coast is the fishing village of Nazare where you'll find fishermen in knee length plaid trousers, and women in full skirts and seven petticoats, mending nets. The walled town of Obidos should also not he missed, with its narrow streets of brightly white-washed houses and striking towers of the Castle that's now a splendid Pousada Take just a short trip south and you can explore the active fishing port of Peniche which has a dominating 16th century fort built for protection against marauding pirates. The Silvercoast is one of the most peaceful and romantic places of all.

Buying Property in Silver Coast Portugal

Buying property in Silver Coast Portugal is currently popular with Europeans, but as of yet, not so much with the British property buyers. This is because properties are relatively inexpensive and transport links to/from the UK are getting better and cheaper to the Silver Coast. Buying property in Silver Coast Portugal offers superb beach holiday facilities with a great summer climate, great culture, architecture and history. Also, the Silver Coast is tipped to see significant capital property value rises in the coming years.

Portugal is an evergreen in the overseas property market. Build quality is high, property prices have grown a steady 10-15% per annum since the Millennium, and there's a broad choice of property across the price range and country - within the Silver Coast the price grow within the following years will possibly reach the 25 - 35 %.

Buying property in Silver Coast Portugal offers good prospects for rental from both the local market and from holidaymakers, and with the potential of significant property price rises on the Silver Coast Portugal, this could be the ideal place to invest in a holiday home.

Buying property in Portugal still has great appeal as it has a benign tax system which allows avoidance of the worst effects of capital gains and inheritance tax and can put you in a lower tax band.

Why buy in the the Silver Coast

Property experts have been advising clients to look beyond the Algarve, with its pockets of overgrowing, and invest instead in homes 45 minutes' drive from Lisbon on Portugal's Silver Coast. Maddison says, "The Algarve used to be the most popular area. However, it is now rather overrun with Brits and over commercialized. In other words it is too popular now, with many of those looking to purchase in Portugal now looking elsewhere."

According to international property specialists the Silver Coast is now the up-and-coming area in Portugal. "Many Brits are selling up in the Algarve and moving up to the Oeste Region, which is located just north of Lisbon. This area is still very Portuguese, with farming the main source of income for the locals. It does not die in the winter because most of the locals are Portuguese. The cost of properties is so much cheaper than on the Algarve - so there is still room to make money in this area".

But what of the place itself? The Silver Coast stretches from Porto down to Portugal's capital Lisbon and hugs the North Atlantic coastline; it is home to beautiful beaches, amazing cliffs, quaint fishing villages, lush rolling countryside and some of the most fascinating historic sites in Portugal. Here you can discover pretty villages and a real Portuguese way of life. The Silver Coast is a particularly good bet for those with holiday lets in mind, thanks to the new A8 motorway which has cut journey times from Lisbon to the Silver Coast considerably, opening the atmospheric towns of Caldas da Rainha and Turcifal, and pretty villages, such as Peniche, up to tourists and investors.

There is a wide range of property available on the Silver Coast. You can find traditional farmhouses in need of renovation, but there has also been a fair amount of developments popping up and luxury villas with pools and apartments in complexes are easy to find.

Access to the area is becoming even easier as more and more airlines now offer frequent flights to Lisbon.

Hope to see you soon in the Silver Coast of Portugal - http://www.silver-coast-properties.net/