Travelers Best

Cape Town is one of the prominent cities in South Africa. If somebody asks you to name a place in South Africa the chances are that you will say Cape Town. It is easily the first city from South Africa to come to one’s mind. But, Cape Town would most likely not be an automatic choice as a holiday destination for you. This opinion might change when you realize what is in store for you when you visit Cape Town.

For a start there are many beaches in Cape Town to enjoy especially if you like soaking in the sun. There are three places you should basically concentrate on. The first is known as False Bay that has many beaches you can explore. You can also visit the beaches on the Atlantic Seaboard and also three more on the West Coast. Obviously you are spoiled for choice here.

However it’s not just the beaches that attract the holiday makers. There are other natural sites here which are just as interesting to visit in your stay at Cape Town. The most popular one is known as Table Mountain, which is the name given to it because of its appearance. It has a flat top that is rather unusual for any mountain. You can use the cable car system available for going directly to the top of this mountain. However, if you are okay with a little bit of hard work then consider the hiking option. If it is not too hot hiking can be quite enjoyable and it is also a great way to spend your day in the fresh air enjoying the scenery. You will certainly be awestruck when you reach the top of the mountain and see the fantastic view of Cape Town.

If you want to enjoy a quiet day ensure that you don’t miss out on the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. As indicated in the name this place is extremely close to the water, right on top of it as a matter of fact. This is because it was built on a dock in that area. It is also very close to Table Mountain and the view again is spectacular. Another of the most significant facts is that this place is extremely popular with locals as well. There are many shops around so you can spend time shopping on the local delights to take them back home as souvenirs. You will also find many places here for grabbing a bite and relaxing as you watch the work going on at the docks like it does every day.

From the information above it is quite clear that Cape Town has many delights to offer. You can get international and local flights to and from Cape Town as they are easily available and there is a range of accommodation available to select from and a great stay is assured in this city in South Africa.
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Overview

Cairo capital of Egypt and “Gateway of the East” derived its name from Khere-oho or combat place and its geographical surname from the fact that it was a fertile land that allowed successful trade between the West and the East. It is strategically placed on either bank along the River Nile.

Cairo as a tourist destination affords myriad views of Egyptian and Muslim art architecture and culture as well as glimpses of Christian and Jewish influences in different quarters of the city. There is a lot to be seen in Cairo, but it is wiser to visit prominent places of historical value while soaking in the modern architecture and westernized lifestyles of what was once the cradle of civilization.

Egyptian Overtones

Starting at the Pyramids in Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is the best way to begin a long journey through Egyptian history. The complex of the tombs and Pyramids also houses the Sphinx which archeologists deem to be older than the Pyramids themselves. The Great Pyramid was built as a burial chamber for King Cheops and the three smaller ones for his wives, while the others were erected for Cephren and Mycerinus, children of the erstwhile King. The Solar Boat Museum that features an ancient boat found near the Great Pyramid and the sound and light shows put up every night are also worth viewing once there.

Next up on everyone’s agenda should be a visit to the Egyptian Museum that houses more than 120,000 artifacts all testaments to the great Egyptian Pharaohs and the Roman era. Tutankhamen Galleries is still the most frequented area of the museum where the tomb, gem inlaid funerary mask and 1700 other personal belongings of Boy King Tutankhamen are put on view meticulously. Also on display are mummified corpses of 11 of the most powerful pharaohs of Egyptian history in the Royal Mummy Room. Egyptian ancient life, royal objects d’art, statues, traditional rural and royal jewelry and everyday objects of use are showcased in various other sectors within this highly guarded museum.

Islamic Impression

The Islamic art museum is another must see in the city to better understand the regions strong Islamic presence and history. The museum itself is filled with enough objects, paintings, carved woodwork and columns dating as far back as the 7th - 19th century Islamic Egypt. It houses a series of metal work, mosaic fountains, stone and other architectural exhibits sourced from falling mausoleums and mosques from places in Egypt to give a glorious history of the luxurious Islamic rule in Egypt.

The Citadel a massive complex of mosques and Islamic monuments perched on a hilltop dominates the otherwise placid skyline of the city. It was built by Saladin as a defense for the city and today houses the impressive Muhammad Ali and Al-Nasir Muhammad Mosques, both architectural wonders depicting Saladin’s strong hold over Cairo.

The Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan and the Ibn Tulun Mosque are two other noteworthy archetypes of Islamic Cairo. The former is also used to house four Madrassas or Islamic theology schools. Other Islamic monuments are prominent historic landmarks in the city.

Christian Significance

The Coptic museum in stark contrast reveals Coptic art from the Christian era between AD300-1000. Ornate rooms with tapestries, paintings, carved woodwork and ivory, Nubian paintings from villages drowned by Lake Nasser and ancient texts from the Gospels of the Gnostic era are showcased amid typical gardens of Babylon-in-Egypt. The implication of Christianity is brought to light within these walls.

Continuing on the lines of the Coptic Museum is the el-Muallaqa or the Hanging Church dating back to the Fourth century, which is a place of religious worship for modern day Christians in Cairo. The church is named the hanging church as it is built on a Roman gate and has to be accessed by a series of steps that lead to a typical Roman courtyard. The altar screens are inlaid with precious ivory and metals and the pulpit is a marble edifice supported by 13 pillars representing Christ and his disciples.

Jewish Fragments

The Ben Ezra Synagogue was in reality a church before it had to be sold under poignant circumstances to Abraham Ben Ezra in 882AD. Unable to pay taxes to the Muslim rulers of the period the Christians sold this beautiful church to a Jew who is said to have come from Jerusalem for a sum of just 20,000 dinars. Today the Synagogue located directly behind the Hanging Church is a place of worship for North African Jews and the famous rabbi Moses Maimonides is said to have prayed here during his stay in Cairo. Thousands of documents and ancient Torah Scrolls were found in a medieval Geniza during the last reconstruction in 1892. The Char-Hachamaim Synagogue built by the Mosseri family recently in 1905 is the other momentous place of Jewish worship. It has some of the most opulent light fixtures and stained glass windows which are believed to be sourced from Tiffany’s.

Shopping

Named after Prince Jaharkas-Al-Khalili a powerful Mamluke prince of the 14th century, the Khan El-Khalili Bazaar is arguably the most exciting and adventurous place to shop in throughout Cairo. The market has an oriental-medieval atmosphere and sells everything from spices to Egyptian artifacts and is dotted with cafes and restaurants. It is a delight by night when the Shisha parlors open their doors to tourists and locals alike for a night of fun and entertainment.

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Traditionally famous for its culture, Copenhagen can now add food to the long list of reasons to visit what is often referred to as the coolest city in Scandinavia. Only recently, “Noma” one of the cities many fine restaurants was elected “best restaurant in the world”.

The city appears alive, and appears to be blossoming. Partly some daring new architectural endeavors are responsible for this, while the continuance of prosperity for the Danish citizens is also leaving its mark in a positive way, adding confidence in the positive charm of the city.

In the city there are now more café’s, restaurants and bistros than ever before. This is partly the result of the local population waking up and stepping into modern times. Where residents of Copenhagen would only visit this type of establishment during special occasions, today you will find them to be buzzing with customers on any given day, and you will quickly find out the unique atmosphere which carries a sense of wellbeing the Danish can provide.

It appears the rest of the world already knew the historic value and attraction of this city with a rich history, full of canals, cobbled streets and squares long before its own population realized it, but finally the notice that Copenhagen is regarded the place to go to for excellent architecture and fashion, has become generally accepted and caused what could be best described as a cultural revolution among the Danish, during the last ten years.

Copenhagen is one of the cleanest cities you will ever encounter, while travelling through Europe, so those looking for a more down and dirty approach to their holidays, may want to go elsewhere. Copenhagen is also one of the safest cities in Europe and easy to find your way into. With many of the local population being fluent in the English language, most tourists will find their way, with ease, while the public transportation serves as an example for the rest of Europe.

Many locals and tourists alike rate Copenhagen as one of the top five best cities to live in, yet Copenhagen is not a cheap city, so those on a budget may want to reconsider choosing Copenhagen for a holiday destination, but if you are accustomed to the cost of visiting the larger European cities like Amsterdam and London, Copenhagen will not be any more expensive than those.

The best time to visit Copenhagen is most likely in the spring, in May, and when you do, make sure that the 21st until the 23rd of May fall within your holiday as this is the time for the Whitsun Carnival, which is the largest festival of the year, with lots of performances, beautiful parades, music and many typical European markets. Around this period you will find Copenhagen at its very best.

Art lovers will also want to visit the Statens Museum for Kunst, internationally known as the National Gallery of Denmark, which contains an excellent art collection with among many others some interesting works of Rubens.

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A Once in a Lifetime Opportunity:

Lake Eyre Basin is the lowest point on the continent of Australia, situated 50 feet below sea level.  This basin is normally deserted to most life forms.  This otherwise ordinary and deserted area, however, reawakens roughly once every 50 years when this empty basin that is twice the size of Texas fills itself with water.  It is at this point that this area turns into a world phenomenon and fills itself with water.  Currently, there are travel packages available in order to see this wonder first hand.

The package to see this natural wonder begins on September 11th and ends on September 22nd with a price of $6,099 per person.  This package includes a roundtrip airfare, accommodations, park entry fees, meals and nine days of touring with an experienced tour guide.

This Eyre Basin normally has very little or no water that usually does not host any form of life.  When it fills up, it becomes a flourishing oasis and serves as a breeding ground for up to six million birds.  Some of these birds travel all the way from Japan and China.  Other species come out of 50 years of hibernation including frogs and other amphibians.  Wild camels are even drawn to the Eyre Basin.  This serves as an excellent sight for tourists who are able to enjoy the beauty of the lake in addition to the vast assortment of wildlife that you won’t ever find come together anywhere else.

In the last 150 years, Lake Eyre Basin has only filled itself to capacity three different times.  This year, the high waters are making this basin a must-see for travelers to see a whole new side of Australia. 

While traveling to Lake Eyre Basin, there are many sight-seeing opportunities to help to gain an even greater appreciation for Australia.  This includes the isolated mining city known as Broken Hill.  Mutawintji National Park is also a must-see area with beautiful gorges and serves as a historical site with Aboriginal rock Art.  Another notable park is Sturt National Park with breathtaking red sand dunes.  Other notable places to explore that are included in the Lake Eyre Basin include the towns of Innamincka, Diamantina River, Birdsville, the old settlement of Marree, the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, and the Gammon Ranges National Park.

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In ancient India the seers communicated with nature and the higher spiritual forces, and the teachings that came forth from those communications was known as the Vedas, and the wisdom obtained through these higher states of mental peace was applied to shape the country.

With this in mind Maitreyi, a beautiful village that covers approximately 25 acres, was founded for those who wished to get away from the hectic day to day events of the city, a place where one may pursue a state of mental tranquility and inner happiness.

Located at the foothills of the western parts of Ghats, which contains some of the purest natural environments of the country, the village of Maitreyi was built there after the vision of the seers, and supported by a European group seeking Vedic knowledge.

Maitreyi is an eco friendly village, built near the Aliyar Dam Lake in Tamil Nadu, which is well known for its natural beauty, but even more for its healthy climate. The architecture and layout of Maitreyi itself is styled on the Vedic architectural knowledge, and caution has been taken to preserve the environment surrounding the village as much as possible.

While practicing organic farming, the practice of Vedas Organic farming techniques is a sight for sore eyes, enriching the natural scenery rather than disrupting it. Every activity is geared towards preserving nature instead of exploiting and destroying it.

Maitreyi is the location where tourists go for treatments involving meditation, enlightenment and Ayurvedic treatments, that looks at modern day tension as the cause for poor health. Those who have visited the village and participated in the treatments describe it as uplifting and relaxing.

Maitreyi is a place for relaxation, inner peace and healing, and well known amongst tourists as the place where one can rekindle the connection to our inner self.  Besides healings and meditation, there are lots of cultural happenings, involving traditional dances and musical performances, in celebration of cultural events according to the Vedas calendar. Tourists will experience what the wisdom of Vedas is all about.

In the village, classes are organized for experiencing several cleansing and rejuvenation therapies, while accommodated in beautiful traditional cottages. The experience will be a revelation to many tourists, who shall leave calmer and more balanced than ever before.

Besides the activities in Maitreyi it is also good to explore its surroundings, gaze at mystical waterfalls, and visit the ancient temples. For those that cannot stand to be away from the big city for too long, Coimbatore and Palghat are nearby with a population of 400 million, one will get a good impression of urban India.

Maitreyi is the perfect holiday destination for those who seek to recharge their batteries after a long period of hectic city life. It is a place of mystical peace and tranquility, where inner peace and higher states of being are practiced, taught and cherished, along with beautiful natural scenery, that amazes the eye, and installs awe in all that gaze upon it. Those that visit Maitreyi will leave feeling reborn and ready to take on the world once more!

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It is really not that surprising that Prague has turned into one of the major tourism destinations of Europe. This energetic city, capital of the Czech Republic, holds lots of historical buildings, but also is the center of the exciting nightlife in the country, with its many clubs and lounges. The large shopping areas will appeal to many holiday shoppers, which makes Prague suitable for all types of holidays, long and short.

Prague is suitable for a day trip destination, but also for longer holidays. The city is the Czech heart of the arts and has a rich music and art scene, where visiting tourists can experience anything from Shakespeare to performance artists.

The two main attractions of Prague in terms of culture and historical buildings are without a doubt the castle of Prague and St Vitus Cathedral. Prague castle, which is the world’s largest castle, is easiest to reach by car, and from up there you can watch over all of Prague. The St Vitus Cathedral contains the tombs of many of the famous Bohemian rulers, and if you visit at 12pm you can witness the changing of the guards.

Another popular spot in Prague is Charles Bridge, which is a lively place during the day, filled with artists selling their art between the many statues that are displayed there. Half way across the bridge you will find some small stairs leading down to an area with plenty of cafes and restaurants, which makes the perfect place to enjoy a tasty lunch, and just around the corner, there will be the John Lennon Wall filled with Graffiti art, inspired by the greatest Beatle. Allow yourself to be moved by the added texts, and be sure to come prepared with tissues.

A benefit to visiting Prague is the low prices, where decent accommodation is still very affordable. Western Europeans or citizens of the United States will be amazed with the low cost of everything this great city has to offer. When looking for good accommodation, worthy of a memorable time spent in the Capital of Czech, look for the three star hotels, which will provide you with all the luxuries at very decent prices. Most of these hotels are located in beautiful historical buildings, which add to the atmosphere and definitely are an added bonus. Often these buildings date back far into the medieval time periods, which will provide an unforgettable experience.

Prague is an excellent holiday destination for anyone, but especially for those that are holidaying on a budget, but still want to experience the full holiday treatment.

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Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and is regarded to be the financial heart of the world. The city ranks at the top as one of the best cities in terms of quality of living. Its many shopping areas, restaurants and cafes, and excellent means of public transportation, will appeal to many visitors.

While there be sure to visit the botanical gardens located at the university area, and shoppers will appreciate the ultimate shopping experience at the Bahnoffstrasse. Be sure to also visit the historical Grossmünster and Fraumünster Churches, and after a day of sightseeing and shopping relax at the Tiefenbrunnen beach.

A trip to the older parts of Zurich should definitely also be on the agenda, to feel the unique atmosphere of walking the cobblestone streets, which invoke the impression you are walking inside a picture postcard. Many small stores are located in the alleys, along with bistros and restaurants. From Zurich’s central station it is within walking distance, but the tram will also take you there if walking is not to your liking.  The old part of Zurich is perfect for exploration by foot, as you visit nostalgic guild houses that still show the old Zurich of times long gone. Cobblestone streets on one hand, while a beautiful riverside setting on the other, provide spectacular scenes, worthy to be printed on a postcard. This part of Zurich houses many shops selling antiques, and for relaxation there are many cafes along the riverside of the Limmat.

The central station of Zurich also holds a large shopping mall, which was built underground, and is open seven days of the week, and therefore a good location to visit on days when regular stores are closed. In the old parts of Zurich there also exists a vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs where you can dance, party or just relax. It should be mentioned that the old scene also serves as the heart of the gay club scene, and while most clubs cater to all, some are exclusive to gay people.

A good time to visit Zurich is around the second half of April, as this is the time for the famous Six Ringing Festival. The original theme of the holiday is the celebration of the return of the spring season and is part of the local tradition of Zurich.

Winter time is also a good time to visit the city, especially during December, as the city is host for the traditional Christmas markets, which the city is famous for. Visitors at this period will experience the unique atmosphere of Zurich during the holidays, which is unique in the world and definitely something one should experience at least once in their life.

Besides being the financial and business center of the world, Zurich is rich with culture and well worth a visit. From the past Zurich had a reputation of being expensive, but this no longer holds true. Zurich can be an excellent holiday location on a budget, if you cater to your needs in the old parts of the city. Especially when eating and drinking are concerned, we can highly recommend the restaurants down the riverside of the Limmat, where you can eat and drink at reasonable prices and enjoy quality food and drinks.
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Regarded as one of the hottest cities on the globe, Istanbul is a place rich with history, with lots of buildings dating back to the Ottoman Empire. But it is also a modern capital city with many art galleries, restaurants and shops, and with a vivid night life in the many clubs. The city has come a long way from a desperate state of poverty to the rich and energetic city it is today.

Back in the age of the Ottoman Empire, the heart of the city was the Hippodrome, with a rich history of political catastrophes; it was the place where the emperor was overturned after a chariot race that ended dramatically. In modern times a spot of equal importance to the tourist visiting Istanbul will be the Grand Bazaar, strategically placed in the center of the town, where tourists can shop to their hearts content. Throughout the ages, this “heart of Istanbul” has been the center for business as it still is today, with many restaurants, workshops and also ancient mosques and other relics from Byzantium times. Another part of the city that will be popular among the shoppers will certainly be the Kapali Carsi where almost everything is sold.

One of the sights that are not to be missed when visiting Istanbul is without a doubt the Aqueduct of Valens, a structure that looks out over the Ataturk Bulvari, completely made up out of limestone. One of the best known monuments in the city is the Aya Sofia, which the Greek refer to as Hagia Sofia, and was built on the orders of Emperor Justinian. A sight not to missed is that from the Galata Bridge, be sure to watch a sunset from there, to see some spectacular panoramas.

Of course a visit to Istanbul is not complete without visiting a few of the many ancient mosques, like The Mihrimah Sultan Camii, with its windows constructed from stained glass. For the scholars amongst us, Istanbul holds many artifacts from the Ottoman era, like the ruins of the palace of Anadolu Kavagi Kalesi, and a tour of the Topkapi Palace is not to be missed out on.

The climate in the area is ideal for a trip to Istanbul during spring or autumn, with mild temperatures and lots of sunshine. It is also the time for the many activities that are held in the city every year, like festivals and musical events. For sports lovers there is Formula 1 racing in June as the Grand Prix starts. The summer months are less suitable for visits to the city, with very high temperatures and the majority of the many attractions are closed during that period.

In and around Istanbul there are many means to move around in the city, like buses, ferries and the popular cabs. Typical transportation in the area is by boat.

Over the years Istanbul has developed into a true world city, with all the comforts of modern day while maintaining its rich culture and history, which is why it has become one of the most popular holiday destinations.

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Large sandy beaches, a wide variety of wildlife and speed boats, make it obvious you have left the familiar environment of your home. Sydney is a unique city, with lots of attractions suitable for the whole family. Australia with its unique flora and fauna will never seize to amaze, providing breathtaking scenery, along with a lively nightlife and plenty of sites to visit, it is a place where children as well as the parents are set for a great time during their holidays.

Where there are beaches there is water, and at the Sydney Harbour you will find many different vessels ranging from private yachts to a fully fledged destroyer and submarine from the Australian military. It is also the home of the famous “Spirit of Australia”, which ranks amongst the fastest ships in the world.

A ride on the ferry will take you to Manly, passing each of the gorgeous golden beaches and pines. Once there, be sure to tag along with the others to the main beach and avoid the smaller ones next to the ferry terminal. Also while you are there, be sure to take a walk over the Harbour Bridge. You will see scenery that will take your breath away, and when you feel up to it, participate in a three hour climb organized by BridgeClimb, that will take you to the highest point which is over 400ft above the water.

The Taronga Zoo was built on a large hill that provides a view over large parts of Sydney, just like the Harbour and the Opera House. The Zoo itself contains plenty to see with an excellent selection of wildlife, including facilities where one can observe the nocturnal wildlife of Australia up close, providing a sight rarely seen otherwise. It is also the home of Australia’s official Easter Bunny.

Sydney also houses one of the largest interactive museums of the world, with many exhibits all related to the technological accomplishments of mankind. Allow yourself to be fascinated by the many wonders of technology as the trip will be well worth the time.

Of course a trip to Sydney would not be complete without visiting at least one of the wildlife reservations it holds. The animal selection is nothing short of awesome and all the animals are well treated. Surely you would not want to pass up the opportunity of going on camera with Australia’s most famous animal, The Koala.

Besides wildlife and museums, Sydney offers plenty of opportunity to shop and of course excellent waves for surfers at Coogee Beach.

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Paris commonly referred to as the city of light has always been associated with romance and the finer things in life. Paris is a city with a rich history with lots of places to visit and with limited time one can never see them all.

A trip to Paris is not complete without exploring the old Paris with its nostalgic cobblestone paved streets, alleys and atmospheric cafes. Walking past the ancient fountains will invoke the feeling of time travelling as you are visiting a part of the city where life has never changed for centuries. The rich history of Paris surrounds you from all sides, visiting the same places the likes of Ernest Hemminway have visited before you along with many other famous names in history. While there be sure to experience the Pantheon after which a visit to the famous Notre Dame is an absolute must. These are just a few highlights that a visit to Paris holds in store, there are many more famous sites to visit and explore.

After a day filled with exploring the sites have a seat in one of the many cafes that are always nearby. Should you be a traveler originating from the United States, tasting the typical French coffee is recommended, you will find it to be very different. All the places are easy to visit using the famous Metro system in Paris, so go and visit “Place Monge” for some typical French cuisine. France has always been famous for its kitchen and not just because of its wines. You will find the prices very reasonable.

Paris was built on the two sides of the Seine and its best known monuments are nearby. As darkness falls these are covered with lights, so get on a cruise down the Seine and experience how Paris got its nickname. The site of a completely lit up Eiffel Tower is majestic to say the least, and so are all the other sites. The sight of these will be engraved in your memory forever.

A visit to Paris is not complete without a visit to Montmartre, a large community built on the top of a large hill. From there one can oversee all of Paris. Especially when looking over Paris from the large church which gives an overview of Paris of approximately 30 square miles. Montmartre became famous during the 1860’s when practitioners of the fine arts sought it out in order to experience the gorgeous sights first hand. The fame of the area was made complete by the paintings of the area from the hand of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec.

Another site in Paris one must visit is without a doubt the Louvre, home of a collection of art that is unrivaled. One could spend a day at the Louvre and never see all the pieces in their collection. The pieces the museum is most famous for are the Mona Lisa and the legendary Venus de Milo.

Besides the arts, the food and the wines there is one other thing Paris is famous for, which is fashion. With this premise it is safe to say the shopping is fabulous in Paris, especially their large department stores and shopping malls.

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