Travelers Best

Overview
Nassau is the most popular island vacation destination in the Bahamas. Nassau, the capital city is situated on the island of New Province and has become the centerpiece of the Bahamas islands since Blackbeard the pirate’s shipwrecking days. Nassau is a cosmopolitan city, a world class entertainment center, vibrant platform for tourism and seat of government. Nassau is prized for the safe harbor, which made history and has been preserved well with its elegant, noble architecture, 18th century forts, cathedrals and its magnificent Queen’s staircase where 66 steps lead to a breathtaking view of the whole island. Nassau is known for an exciting nightlife and white sandy beaches. Nassau is a friendly city where the locals and tourists mingle easily.

History
The Lucayan Indians were the original inhabitants who survived the developing and fishing trade with Haiti and Cuba until 1942. This was when the Bahamas were discovered by Columbus. Close to the trading route, a group of settlers made up of English religious dissidents arrived in 1647. They were adventurers braving a shortage of food before establishing themselves on Harbour Island. This was the era of pirates, where Blackbeard the pirate was even a magistrate at one time until the islands were colonized in 1717 by Britain. Religion in the Bahamas islands is predominantly Christian with Anglican, Baptist, Methodists, Protestant and Roman Catholics as their main denominations. The pace of life on the islands is relaxed and Bahamians are described as having a laid back attitude.

Sightseeing
Visitors can tour the Harbour Island with its pale pink sands, which is truly a sight to behold. The Paradise Island plays home to gently rustling palms and soaring seabirds. Andros is the third longest barrier reef in the world with its thick mangroves, bird filled forests, pastel colored corals and natural creeks. Visitors can interact with displaced sea lions and frolic with dolphins in the Blue Lagoon and tour the landing spot of Columbus near Cockburn Town on San Salvador, which is now a prime spot for scuba diving. The Bahamas is filled with memorable golf courses and the prettiest and oldest of them is at Cable Beach.

Things to Do
Nassau is an entertainment center from cabaret shows, casinos, acrobatics, magic acts to great theatre performances and moonlight dinner cruises. Visitors can hire a motor scooter, bicycle, rental car or go on a cruise to tour the island of Nassau. Snorkeling the coral reefs or scuba diving, fishing for tuna, dolphins or wahoo, playing golf or tennis or simply snoozing in the sun are some of the laid back activities visitors can indulge in on the island. Take a stroll along Bay Street, the famous international shopping spot and visit bargain shops and historic forts. The shops are filled with local crafts, native goods such as handmade yards of batik. The Straw market is the best place to buy straw craft items and souvenirs. Visitors will find Colonial style, picturesque and pastel pink colored stores flanked along Bay Street. Some of the Government buildings erected include Houses of Parliament, the Supreme Court, Queen Victoria statue and Colonial Secretary’s office from the early 1800s.

Weather
The climate in Nassau, Bahamas is always sunny and warm. The temperatures are constant throughout the islands thanks to cooling, refreshing trade winds. The finest weather is found from September to May with temperatures reaching 24 degrees Celsius. The hurricane season is from June to November. The wet season consists of light raincoats and runs through May to September.
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Overview
Istanbul is strategically located and separates Asia Minor from Europe. Much of the amazing culture, architectural heritage and historic importance you will see in Istanbul are because of its perfect strategic location. The city was originally called Byzantium and was later known as Constantinople and has a 2,500 year long rich history. The population in Istanbul amounts to 13 million people, many of them exclusively Turkish, while some people have migrated from provincial Turkey. Istanbul is a vibrant city with promising careers and fast development.

Istanbul is the cultural and economic powerhouse in Turkey. It has in the recent past taken on the role of being a cultural city and was awarded the UNESCO World Heritage to honor many of its landmarks including the Byzantine churches, stunning Ottoman mosques, Hellenistic temples, medieval city walls and catacombs. The fast growing economy has contributed to the flourish of music and arts, private art galleries, clubs, pubs and restaurants.

History
Istanbul was inhabited in 3000BC. By the 7th century King Byzas led the Greek colonists to establish Byzantium. Byzas named the city Byzantium after his own name. In 100BC, Byzantium merged with the Roman Empire and in 306AD, Constantine the Great, Emperor of Rome made Byzantium the capital of Eastern Rome. From then onwards, Byzantium became known as Constantinople. 1923 saw the birth of the Republic of Turkey with its population increasing to nearly 13 million.

Sightseeing
Visitors can tour the magnificent Topkapi Palace, which was created by a 23 year old sultan named Mehmed II. Mehmed captured Constantinople in 1453 and brought it under his Ottoman empire at that time. The Turkish and Islamic Art museum was originally a palace in the 16th century of Suleyman, this museum in Istanbul contains 40,000 items dating back to the seventh century. Some of the highlights include Turkish carpets, Selcuk rugs, Ottoman Koran cases, Koran stands, illuminated tiles and manuscripts. Although few visitors make it to the Blue Mosque, this picturesque Istanbul mosque is more peaceful and even grander and was created by Sultan Sueleymaniye. The Galata Tower offers visitors an unforgettable view from its balcony of the entire city. This distinctive tower was built in 1348 and is 62m long.

Things to Do
Istanbul remains a shopper’s paradise, for the last 1,500 years it has become famous for handmade carpets, rugs, jewelry, antique silver, spices, semi precious stones, international brand clothing, accessories and footwear. A great tourist attraction in Istanbul is the grand bazaar in Beyazit. Eminonu’s spice bazaar is also worth a trip. The bazaar smells and looks marvelous with its stalls filled with dried fruits, olives, nuts, herbs and sweetmeats! The prime tourist shopping area selling handicrafts and authentic antiques can be found in Sultanahmet. Nightlife in Istanbul consists of live music venues, clubs, cafes and bars. The latest trend in the city is pricey rooftop bars. The after dark spot, where it is all happening, is found in Kadikoy. Platform Granti is home to some of the most well known sculptors, painters and printmakers in Istanbul, where visitors will be treated to art exhibitions regularly.

Weather
The weather in Istanbul is similar to that of the Marmara region. The summer is humid and warm, with little rain. The winters are wet and cold with snow, but not as much in Istanbul as other areas in the country. The best time to visit would be in spring and autumn, as the weather is mostly mild. Temperatures during summer are 30 degrees Celsius, and in winter it is around 10 degrees Celsius.

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Overview
Barcelona is Spain’s cultural capital, which exhibits an avant garde, diverse and charismatic flair. Barcelona is known to seduce its visitors, by reinventing its Spanish ethos into medieval edifices, futuristic buildings, creative cuisine and gyrating nightlife. Barcelona ranks as one of the top destinations in European travel.

While Barcelona has transformed into a vast metropolis, it has kept a stronghold on tradition. Visitors will be treated to the treasured history in Barcelona, while exploring the Gothic Quarters of the city, mingling with the Catalans or hanging out at a classic cafeteria. Meanwhile, if you want to be transported back to the present, look no further than the chic fashion streets, hopping music scene and sizzling beachfronts. Barcelona’s beauty extends beyond the city and makes the perfect getaway throughout the year. Visitors can experience the Pyrenees Mountains and Mount Tibidabo in the north, and golden sandy beaches and the Mediterranean Sea in the south.

History
Barcelona was originally a Roman City, which fell under besiege many times before transforming into an independent country. In 1469, Barcelona and the Kingdom of Aragon merged together, which made Barcelona one of the top cities in the country. The Catalan Revolt took place between 1640 and 1652, and Barcelona became the center of Catalan separatism. Despite the civil war devastation, by the 19th century, prosperity could be seen in Barcelona. Urbanization was rapid as there was large scale immigration in various regions of Spain. What completely made Barcelona flourish were the 1992 Olympic Games, which turned the city into a global one! Today, the city has become a cultural and artistic stronghold, and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.

Sightseeing
La Rambla is the most famous street in Barcelona, which stretches from the waterfront to Laca de Catalunya and is lined with trees. Visitors can stroll through Parc Guell, created by Antonio Gaudi, a renowned Spanish architect from 1900 to 1914. This is a fantasy land, which combined a man-made and natural park. To see some epic regeneration programs in Barcelona, visitors can stroll along the harbor or the promenade. The focus of activity in Barcelona has shifted back to the sea. The waterfront boasts of a number of bars and eateries, leisure centers and vast shopping malls.

Things to Do
Shopping is a great attraction in the city and there is a 3 mile shopping strip, which stretches from Port Olympic to the water’s edge. Designer shops, modern department stores and international chains can be found in Placa de Catalunya and Passeig de Gracia. The main food market in Barcelona offers a myriad of local fare and fresh produce. The culinary cuisine in the city has been described as creative and diverse. Some of the best restaurants and top chefs are found in Barcelona. The variety of food is limitless with the traditional Catalan tapas to haute cuisine. The best place to party in Europe is in Barcelona. Spaniards love to party until the wee hours of the morning, and the city is known to pick up on the rhythm around midnight. The trendiest nightspot can be found at the stylish Port Olympic, where the area has been transformed into bars, collage of cafes and nightclubs. EL Quatre Gats is a famous artists’ hangout in Barcelona, which is a classic bar with its iron wrought chandeliers, antique paintings and teak wood frames.

Weather
The weather in Barcelona is pleasant all year around. However, for the best weather, visitors can travel to the city from May to July. September is also an excellent holiday month. August can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 34 degrees Celsius.

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Stockholm is spread over 7 islands, and enjoys being one of the most stunning capitals in the world. Stockholm is made up of parks, green spaces and waterways and is a charming town with its well preserved buildings and historical streets. This town is the first stop for many tourists, and a definite contrast to the more modern Stockholm where locals reside and work. However, both parts of the capital showcase the lovely design and flair, the Swedish have become renowned for globally.

Summer in Stockholm is at its loveliest where the stylish pavement cafes and chic boutiques overflow with fashion conscious and affluent people who enjoy the lifestyle and culture that has earned rave reviews for the Swedish in European fashion magazines. During winter, it is not all gloom in Stockholm. There are numerous restaurants in the city, as well as many galleries and museums. Winter in Stockholm brings its own beauty and many of the waterways are used as ice skating rinks during winter.

History
The contact Sweden first established with Europe is recorded during the Viking period. This was the time when Stockholm traded arms and furs with Russia. In the 13th century, nobility was established, feudalism was introduced and the towns began filling with burghers, a thriving middle class. The most significant recorded period was in 1520, the Massacre of Stockholm, caused by Christian of Denmark, in his ill judged attempt to stamp his authority in Sweden. However, the Danes were defeated, and in 1523 Gustav I was crowned, which heralded the new beginning of the ascendancy of Sweden in Europe. Thereafter, Protestantism became an established convention. In 1611, Gustavus Adolphus became King. Around 86 percent of Swedish people belong to the Evangelical Lutheran, Church of Sweden, which is a separate entity from the state. The minority is made up of Protestants.

Sightseeing
Visitors can tour the fourth largest city in Sweden known as Uppsala, which is also one of the prettiest around. Uppsala was founded in 1477 and plays home to the oldest local university in Scandinavia. Thousand Isles is a water tour of the surrounding archipelago, and is a classic excursion from Stockholm. The national history museum in Sweden, which traces the history of the nation from prehistoric times, is graced by the Gold Room, which houses the Viking Chief’s gold. These hoards were recovered from hiding places, such as tombs, show the Viking culture as magnificent and prosperous. There are a number of bus tours offering city sightseeing, which tourists can catch at the Royal Opera House. Tourists can also go sightseeing on boat tours and summer walking tours.

Things to Do
Shopping is indeed heavenly in Stockholm. This is due to the fact that post war prosperity in Sweden has profited the city’s stores and boutiques for decades. The major European fashion designers can be found in Biblioteksgatan, while Odengatan is filled with antique shops. The oldest and best department store in Stockholm is Nordiska Kompaniet, which comprises of 100 departments selling health foods, crafts and pretty much everything else.

Nightlife
Stockholm is filled with late evening summer sun, and long winter nights which leads to plenty of action in the city. Visitors can experience smart bars, strong jazz and entertaining club scenes. The most happening area for night owls is around Stureplan. The cultural scene in Stockholm is eclectric and vibrant. There is a wide array of cultural productions from dance performances, art exhibitions and theatre performances.

Weather
The climate in Stockholm brings a real surprise to visitors. The dry, warm weather can be found in July or August; however, most of the time visitors can enjoy the dry, warm weather. January and February are considered cold months in the city, while there is a chance of snow from November to March, Sweden is one of the driest countries in Europe.

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Bangkok with its humidity and lively atmosphere is a larger than life exotic city. For some people, the heat, traffic and frenetic pace can be overpowering. However, for others, it is dynamic and intoxicating!

Bangkok is a blend of the modern and traditional, with every street corner springing up a surprise. Visitors can experience exotic temples, ramshackle buildings and modern offices and hotels. The roads of Bangkok are organized chaos, mirrored on the crisscrossed roads of the Chao Phraya River, which is used by river taxis, small rowing boats and long tailed boats quite regularly, all missing each other miraculously. The Thai traditional life is not too far away. You will see saffron robed monks, weaving their way through morning traffic, collecting alms, while communities continue to live by the river in stilt houses.

History
Bangkok became the capital of Thailand in 1782, but the monarchy rule only ended in 1932. This was replaced by the constitutional monarchy system. However, even in modern times the monarchy is revered, and insulting the royal family is a punishable offence. His Majesty King Bhunibol came into power in 1946, and has been the world’s longest reigning monarch.

With the constitutional monarchy, Thailand became a democratic nation. But this democracy has been hindered by the military from time to time, which has protested at government politics and staged coups. The most recent bloodless coup was staged in September 2006, which overthrew Thaksin Shinawatra, Prime Minister of Thailand. Although protesting still continues, it dos not affect the tourism flow into the country. Visitors are never held up unnecessarily; aside form the sporadic airport sit-ins.

Things to Do
Visitors can tour Ayutthaya, which was the capital of Thailand for more than 400 years, until its 1767 destruction. Ruins of palace buildings and numerous temples sit in this vast area. The River Kwai is an infamous river in Bangkok located 76 miles from the city. This was built during World War II by Allied POWs, and is filled with wooded valleys, natural beauty and forested mountains. Visitors can travel to Kanchanburi by tour bus or train. The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is situated 50 miles west of Bangkok and during early mornings, you can see small boats filling the narrow canals carrying vegetables and fruits to the marketplace which is very atmospheric and colorful. Bangkok travel agencies offer walking tours to explore the city and take a tour of Chinatown. Visitors can also opt for bus tours which offer free pick-ups at various Bangkok hotels. There are also bicycle tours and boat tours removed from the downtown hustle and bustle of Bangkok.

Nightlife
Nightlife in Bangkok is concentrated in the districts of Patpong and Soi Cowboy. There are many restaurants, excellent cocktail bars and restaurants. At night, the streets are always filled with people.

Weather
Bangkok has a tropical climate and has hot temperatures reaching 30 degrees Celsius. The coolest time is from November to February and the hottest months in the city are March to May. The rainy season falls from May to October. During the rainy season, short showers are generally seen in the afternoons.

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The essence of an easy going life is only found in the metropolis of Sydney, with its vibrant, vast, beach strewn and sun soaked Aussie land. Sydney has become one of the top ten cities in the world to live in and offers world class cuisine, sport, street culture, fashion and intersections of nationalities. Sydney is filled with beloved tourist attractions such as the Opera House, Harbor Bridge and Bondi Beach. Sydney contains a taste for all whether it is the bustling bars or hidden art galleries, there is plenty for even a seasoned traveler.

Sydney is regarded by many as the country’s capital; Sydney inhabitants find their cosmopolitan scene thriving with the arts, business and lots of buzz equaling London and New York. The social calendar in Sydney is a busy one, which means that travelers can enjoy various festivals during any time of the year, but mostly in the summer months.

History
Sydney has a bit of a checkered past. This beautiful city was founded in 1788 during the time the first fleets made their way from England to Australia. However, the history stretches back 40,000 years, when the Aboriginal tribe made its home in the harbor. Urbanization in the city has destroyed evidence of these original settlements, but some of the finest rock carvings still remain. With the arrival of the fleets, conflict began with the Aborigines. The Europeans had superior weapons, and succeeded in getting rid of the indigenous population. The disease of small pox, however, devastated the local Aboriginal population. The early settlers faced disease and drought, but things soon improved. By 1840 the city was given a mayor and corporation, and Sydney University was soon after founded. Sydney expanded by the 20th century, and began embracing multi-cultures including the Asian and European immigration. Sydney today stands as one of the most multi-cultural cities in the world.

Things to Do
Travelers can stroll by the Hunter Valley, which is one of the finest wine producing districts situated north of Sydney. There are over 70 vineyards in the Hunter. The Blue Mountains is forest scenery on the Great Western Freeway which is about 90 minutes from the city. Nature lovers can enjoy numerous bush walks and the gum tree (eucalyptus) which radiates a hazy blue color that has given the Blue Mountain its name. Travelers can visit the city on boat tours. There are many harbor cruises available, and most of them start at Circular Quay. Sydney also offers bus sightseeing tours with a hop on hop off service, covering 22 points of interest including the Darling harbor, Kings Cross and Woolloomooloo.

Nightlife
Nightlife in Sydney is varied and wide. The Rock is considered a more up market area, while King Cross is an established place buzzing with bars, cafes and clubs. The cultural life in the city is diverse such as arts, classical, cutting edge and contemporary. One of the most popular clubs in the city is known as Home. The Home consists of four different rooms, each playing funk, disco, techno and two-step.

Weather
Sydney has mild winters and warm summers and the climate in this city is considered to be moderate. The rainfall comes throughout the year. The inland western suburbs record extreme temperatures, while more moderate temperatures can be found by the ocean.
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Paris is known to be the greatest city on earth. New Yorkers and Londoners may not agree with this, but when it comes to art history, architectural beauty, sheer extravagance and especially the cuisine, it is Paris all the way! Paris has more than the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. A few days in Paris are all that it takes to learn how to live! The finest things in life can be appreciated when you seat yourself in a corner café or stroll along the River Seine. There is no unnecessary hustle and bustle; you don’t see people swallowing their lunch; children leisurely play around; hairdressers are mostly busy. This is the wonderment of Paris.

When you visit Paris you must learn to indulge in their culinary magic. From flaky and light croissants to rich foie gras, people in Paris love their food! Dining out in this city is a real joy! Paris is the Holy City for the genuine connoisseur.

History
The “Tale of Two Cities” by Charles Dickens talks about the French revolution. There have been times when Paris was struck into poverty, wealth, terror, riots and the guillotine. Today, Paris is the city which attracts the most number of tourists in the world. However, it has its own share of problems. There are issues with immigration, and the city occasionally faces violent behavior. But, Paris is not in danger of losing its appeal anytime soon.

Things to Do
Tourists can make their way to the famous Le Bastille fortress. For centuries the Bastille was part of the defense in the city, but its strategic importance was lost over time and soon became a prison. The Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 for the “Exposition Universelle” in order to commemorate the French Revolution. It stands at 320.75m in height and weighs 7300 tons. The Les Invalides was constructed by Louis XIV as a house for crippled and invalid soldiers. By the end of the 17th century, over 4000 disabled people had lived in this house. Tourists can visit a place of importance to pilgrims known as the Basilica. It was built over Saint Denis’ tomb, and during its time influenced historical, artistic, spiritual and political life.

Night Life
Paris is said to be more beautiful at night with its illuminated monuments and streets. This is why Paris is known as the City of Light! The Moulin Rouge was built in 1885 and became a dance hall in 1900. The most famous shows are put on at night in this hall. There are casinos and plenty of bars around. Bars in Paris are open almost all day, which means that you can have an early morning breakfast. Paris has two Opera houses, the modern opera Bastille and Opera Garnier. These Operas put on shows of a diverse range including classic, ballet, modern and opera.

Weather
Paris is generally warm and dry during the summer months. Paris is also wonderful in the springtime and autumn and considered some of the best times to visit the city. December and January are winter months, with temperatures dropping to 3 degrees Celsius.

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Penang is Malaysia’s paradise island which is situated on Southeast Asia’s island resort and is one of the most popular island resorts around. This island has been a center for trading for over a hundred years. However, these days, Penang is best known for being a fantastic tourist destination, where travelers come to lay on white sandy beaches and enjoy the sun!

Social Conventions
The official religion in Malaysia is Islam and there is also a large Buddhist community, as well as Christian, Hindu, Taoist and Confucianist. Malaysia is culturally and ethnically diverse and the Malays are generally calm people who lead a peaceful life. The Malays maintain a strong sense of etiquette and respect and the hospitality in Malaysia is always warm, informal and lavish.

Penang Beach
The beaches in Penang are spread all across the borders. The north is packed with the most popular beaches which are situated around Batu Ferringhi, a breathtaking resort. There are a number of activities to engage in while on the beach. You can lay on the beach soaking up the sun, or enjoy some of the thrilling water sporting activities such as jet skiing, windsurfing and boat trips. The beaches down south are quieter than the north beaches and can be visited on a day trip by car or ferry.

Penang Town
The main town situated in Penang is known as Georgetown which is packed with plenty of activities for travelers looking for ways to keep occupied. You can visit the Penang Hill which offers a spectacular view of the entire town. There is a Chinese influence in Penang Town, with its regional restaurants, ornate merchant houses and old houses on stilts that overlook the river.

Thing to Do
For those interested in dramatic architecture and Buddhist architecture, you can make a trip to the southeast of Georgetown and visit the Kek Lok Si temple. This is a remarkable piece of architecture near the Georgetown hills. The climb up the hill is not an easy task, but the 30m tall tower is a breathtaking sight and well worth the climb. Travelers can also visit various Chinese and Burmese architectural spots.

Georgetown replicates some of the British culture in Penang. The Eastern and Oriental Hotel gives out a colonial feeling with its gin and tonic verandah. This restaurant was built in 1885 during the British Empire, and offers a truly sumptuous dinner. For younger visitors, there are swimming pools and children’s clubs. If you are traveling with your family, there are plenty of activities for your children to engage in. Batu Ferringhi offers kids boat trips and a variety of water sports. Kids can even visit the Butterfly Farm, which is an interesting diversion while staying in Penang.

Weather in Penang
The weather in Penang is tropical, but without the high temperatures. The days are often warm and humid, but the nights are cool. The rainy season falls from November to February. The west coast’s wettest month is August and there are heavy rains in the east from November to February. However, the rainfall differs on the west and east coasts. Average temperature in Penang is 27 degrees Celsius.

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Christchurch is known to have a quaint and distinctive English character, with its cathedral, iconic city square, wide tree avenues, meandering Avon River and 740 parks. Christchurch is commonly referred to as Garden City, and is a picture perfect destination with its restored heritage buildings. Christchurch is New Zealand’s second largest city.

Christchurch lies on the Pegasus Bay, southern end, east coast’s middle on the South Islands, and between the Canterbury Plains and Banks Peninsula. Travelers can visit Mount Hutti on the Southern Alps, which is only an hour’s drive from the city. Christchurch is packed with travelers all year round and is a vibrant city, with plenty of museums, cultural venues and lively cafes to ensure both tourists and locals are entertained at all times.

Christchurch History
The maori hunting tribes were Christchurch’s first settlers. The Maori history which relates to humans began around AD1000. The next followers were known as Waitaha, who are said to have settled on the North Islands around the 16th century. Next, Ngai Tahu and Ngati Mamoe continued this journey until 1830. While the European settlers came first, the English settlers arrived at Lyttelton Harbour in 1850, and Christchurch was soon named a city by the Royal Charter in 1856. This made Christchurch, New Zealand’s oldest city.

Things To Do
There are a number of bars in Christchurch, and a very active nightlife on the weekend. SOL Square is known as the ‘urban garden, and one of the hottest districts in the city, with its eclectric bars, eateries, glowing lights, outdoor fireplaces and live music. The arts capital of the South Islands is Christchurch. The premier art center is situated along the Avon River and is known as the Town Hall. Travelers will find a magnificent setting, including symphony orchestra and chamber. For those who love the arts, there is the James Hay Theatre and the Court Theatre.

Sightseeing
There are numerous, fun activities to do while holidaying in Christchurch. You can go on a balloon tour, which flies over Canterbury plains. A traditional way of getting around the city is on a bus tour, which focuses on private gardens, beaches, heritage homes and historic sites. If you like boating, a boat tour on Punting on the Avon is perfect for you. Punting on the Avon offers true English tradition punting trips on the Avon River. Akaroa also called ‘Riviera of Canterbury’ is situated on Peninsula Banks. The French Whalers originally settled on the Peninsula Banks in the 19th century. Even today, Akaora, has managed to retain its charming French character.

The Botanic gardens, which was first established in 1863, covers an area of 74 acres, with the majority of this garden leaning towards the Avon River. The Botanic Gardens contains one of the finest exotic collections of indigenous plants in the country. The Christchurch Cathedral captures the heart of the city, with its dominated skyline. The Canterbury Museum is another magnificent attraction, which features stunning themes of Maori culture, Asian decorative art, Antarctic exploration and New Zealand birds.

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Oranjestad stands in its majesty as the capital of the beautiful island of Aruba. As the Oranjestad port is lined with cruise ships gliding in each morning, you can see the magnificent Dutch architecture, palm lined streets and charming little towns. Visitors can explore the island of Oranjestad by foot, but to see the sandy white beaches, windy landscapes and the island’s wilderness, it is best to travel on wheels. The roads may not be too great, especially in the desert area which is a bit rocky, where the goats have more or less taken control of the right of way. The reward of traveling on wheels is being able to visit the secluded coves, huge cacti clusters and giant rocks. For those who want to enjoy a cruise, you will find a variety of sports including hiking, snorkeling, diving, and then some fine local dining to top off a fabulous day. There is an abundance of underwater life, magnificent shipwrecks and beautiful beaches such as Palm Beach and Eagle Beach. Visitors can also explore the natural bridge, old ruins of the gold mine and beautiful rock formation.

Oranjestad History

This beautiful island was discovered in 1499 by Alonzo de Ojeda initially claiming it for Spain. However, Spain did not take too much interest in Aruba and let the Arawak Indians continue to inhabit the island in peace. This lack of interest by the Spaniards helped towards buccaneers and pirates making it their safe haven. This way of life went on until 1634, when the Dutch took over this neglected territory with almost no opposition. Aruba has since remained an integral part of the Netherlands Antilles. The majority of Arubans are Roman Catholics making up 82 percent of the population. The rest consists of Muslim, Hindu, Jewish and Protestants.

Oranjestad Nightlife

There is an indoor cinema and drive-in that features the latest blockbuster movies. However, the nightlife in Oranjestad is amusing and fun! The casinos are open until the wee hours of the morning, while some stay open 24 hours and the hotel bars generally provide theme nights and live entertainment. Oranjestad is packed with nightclubs and cocktail bars. For a fun pub tour, you can join a party bus. On the other hand, you may want to go on a cruise party which offers entertainment, dinner and drinks.

Oranjestad Weather

This island is very sunny and dry, the average temperature is 28 degrees Celsius. Oranjestad is pleasantly cool right throughout the year with its constant trade winds. During the months between October and December, you will find short showers occurring from time to time.

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