Grand Canyon is unmatched throughout the world for the vistas it offers to visitors on the rim. It is not the deepest canyon in the world. Both the Barranca del Cobre in northern Mexico and Hell's Canyon in Idaho are deeper. But Grand Canyon is known for its overwhelming size and its intricate and colorful landscape. Geologically it is significant because of the thick sequence of ancient rocks that are beautifully preserved and exposed in the walls of the canyon. These rock layers record much of the early geologic history of the North American continent. Grand Canyon is also one of the most spectacular examples of erosion in the world.
Grand Canyon was largely unknown until after the Civil War. In 1869, Major John Wesley Powell, a one-armed Civil War veteran with a thirst for science and adventure, made a pioneering journey through the canyon on the Colorado River. He accomplished this with nine men in four small wooden boats. Though only six men completed the journey. His party was, as far as we know, the first ever to make such a trip.
In the late 19th Century there was interest in the region because of its promise of mineral resources, mainly copper and asbestos. The first pioneer settlements along the rim came in the 1880s. Early residents soon discovered that tourism was destined to be more profitable than mining, and by the turn of the century Grand Canyon was a well known tourist destination. Many of the early tourist accommodations were not much different than the mining camps from which they developed. Most visitors made the grueling trip from nearby towns to the South Rim by stagecoach.
In 1901 the railroad was extended from Williams, Arizona to the South Rim, and the development of formal tourist facilities increased dramatically. By 1905 the El Tovar Hotel stood where it does today, a world class hotel on the canyon's edge. The Fred Harvey Company, known throughout the west for hospitality and fine food, continued to develop facilities at Grand Canyon, including Phantom Ranch, built in the Inner Canyon in 1922.
Although first afforded Federal protection in 1893 as a Forest Reserve and later as a National Monument, Grand Canyon did not achieve national park status until 1919, three years after the creation of the National Park Service. Today Grand Canyon National Park receives about five million visitors each year, a far cry from the annual visitation of 44,173 in 1919.
Dams
No dams exist within Grand Canyon National Park, although dams bordering the park have a profound effect on the canyon. At the upper end of the canyon, 15 miles / 24 km above Lees Ferry, is Lake Powell, formed by the waters behind Glen Canyon Dam. This dam was completed in 1963. At the lower end of the canyon is Lake Mead, formed by the waters behind Hoover Dam. This dam was completed in 1936.
The controlled release of water from Glen Canyon Dam at the upstream end affects the water that flows through Grand Canyon. Waters from Lake Mead flood the lower 40 miles / 64 km of Grand Canyon when the lake is full.
The Land - the Canyon and the River
The Colorado River rushes at the bottom of the canyons, about 1,850 feet above sea level. The sides of the canyons are made of rocks, cliffs, ridges, hills and valleys of every form. Many of the ridges have weather carved lines which make them resemble Chinese temples. Thick forests of blue spruce, fir, oaks as well as Ponderosa pines cover the canyon rim. Deep in the canyon's recesses, the foliage grows sparse and shorter. Pinon pines and juniper growing along the cliffs give way to dry desert scrub on the canyon floor.
The north rim of the Grand Canyon rises about 1,200 feet higher that the south rim. The highest points on the rim are about 9,000 feet above sea level.
Most of the 1,904 square miles of the park are maintained as wilderness. There are three distinct sections of the park; the South Rim, the North Rim and the Inner Canyon. Each section has a different climate as well as different vegetation and different experiences.
The North Rim is the coldest and the wettest. It receives up to 26 inches of precipitation a year. The South Rim only receives around 16 inches of precipitation a year. The Inner Canyon is the closest to a desert as the lower you descend, the hotter and drier it becomes. The floor of the canyon, approximately a mile below the North Rim, is about 35°F hotter than the temperatures above.
The colorful canyon rocks were formed millions of years ago. Their colors change with the changing light of the sun. Many layers of rock have been bared by the constant cutting force of the rushing river. The first layer of rock through which the Colorado River now cuts is black in color and is called Archean. The second layer, called Algonkian, has a brilliant red color. The next layer is a lavender-brown color and is known as Tapeats sandstone. The forth layer, the Devonian layer, consists of small deposits of lavender stone. Above this, the thick Redwall curves along the canyon. Above the Redwall lies 800 feet of red sandstone called the Supai formation. The Hermit shale, another layer of red rock covers this.
On top of the Hermit shale rests the sand colored Coconino sandstone, a pale bank that lies 350 feet below the rim of the canyon. The top layer of the canyon consists of cream and gray colored Kaibab limestone. This limestone forms a rim known as the Kaibab Plateau on the north side of the canyon, and as the Coconino Plateau on the south.
Scientists still haven't agreed on the how's and why's of the creation of the Grand Canyon, but there is always one constant, the Colorado River. It always was and always will be the catalyst for change in the canyon.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Rome
It's hard to describe Rome in a few words; a city so vast and rich in art, monuments and exquisite views, a historic city, which has preserved its charm and independence throughout the centuries.
Rome's history can be read in every monument, and palazzo; in fact, each and every stone bears witness to the periods of splendour, decay, wars, and numerous architectural styles. The city could be described as a gigantic open-air museum, visited each year by millions of tourists, scholars and pilgrims from all over the world.
It is hard to believe that Roman civilization began with a small settlement of shepherds and farmers near the Tevere river, on Palatino (one of the seven hills on which Rome was built and where most of the Roman archaeological treasures were found), tradition dictates that this is where Romulus founded the city and where Augustus, the first Emperor, built his house, which is now widely (and incorrectly) known as the house of Livia, his wife.
The city extended over six other hills: Quirinale, Viminale, Esquilino, Celio, Aventino and Capitolino.
Quirinale, the highest of the seven hills, has Piazza Omonima on its summit, with its colossal statues of the gods, Castor and Pollux and the Palazzo del Quirinale, where the president lives. Opposite the Palazzo are the Scuderie, open to the public thanks to the architect Gae Aulenti, who created a functional exhibition space inside the building.
Viminale stands next to Quirinale, it is smaller in size, split into two by Via Nazionale, and dominated by the huge Palazzo delle Esposizioni building (designed by Pio Piacentini) on Piazza della Repubblica, near Rome's principal railway station, Stazione Termini. Piazza della Repubblica is one of the most beautiful piazzas in Rome, surrounded by arches. The restored Fontana delle Naiadi takes pride of place in the centre of the square.
Esquilino is the home of the great poets Virgilio and Orazio. It has three peaks, one of which is Monte Oppio, where you can find the ruins of Domus Aurea, finally opened to the public after years of restoration. Initially, Esquilino was a suburb of Rome, which is the reason for the nickname 'exquilini' (non-tenants) given to its inhabitants, some believe that this is how the hill got its name.
Further south stand Celio and Aventino. The former has a long promontory, called Monte delle Querce, as it was once home to many oak trees (querce). It is possibly the greenest and most charming of the seven hills and is home to Parco del Celio and Villa Celimontana. There are many beautiful buildings here, especially along the magnificent Appia Antica. Almost all are places of worship. Both Aventino and Celio have few inhabitants. Aventino is rich in important medieval monuments such as the Santa Maria in Cosmedin basilica, where the famous Bocca della Verità, or mouth of truth, is housed.
Last but not least is Capitolino, which stands between Palatino and Quirinale: this used to be the religious and political centre of the city during the Roman era. It is dominated by the Michelangelo styled Piazza del Campidoglio, perfectly proportioned, with a statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius on horseback in the centre. Located here, the Capitoline Museums, have some of the most precious art collections in the world.
The seven hilltops offer a number of beautiful views; the most breathtaking of these are Pincio, the dome of San Pietro (St. Peter's Basilica) and the Gianicolo.
Rome has spread outwards in a rather haphazard manner, without much regard to town planning; many fields were acquired by the local authorities and transformed into new neighbourhoods. North of Rome, near the Vatican are the Aurelio, Prati and Mazzini neighbourhoods, which are more commercial and residential, as well as the elegant quarters of Parioli and Nomentano, home to many foreign embassies. At nearby Montesacro, visit Ponte Nomentano, the storied fortified bridge that has seen the rise and fall of many eras. Neighbouring Monteverde is home to Villa Doria Pamphili, the largest park in all of Rome. Further south are Prenestino and Tiburtino, more populated areas, due to the fact that they are university areas, full of students, who can also be found in the nearby S. Lorenzo, a charming district with a wide variety of pizzerias and bars. Trastevere, is undoubtedly one of the most charming areas of the city, and one of the most crowded areas too - especially on summer evenings. Many people (foreigners and Romans alike) want to live in this highly desirable district, home of historic places of worship such as the Santa Maria in Trastevere and hot night spots like Trastè. Finally, Eur, one of Rome's most modern neighbourhoods, is home to some fascinating Fascist-style architecture, as evidenced by the many offices and administration centres in and around the Piazzale delle Nazioni Unit
Rome's history can be read in every monument, and palazzo; in fact, each and every stone bears witness to the periods of splendour, decay, wars, and numerous architectural styles. The city could be described as a gigantic open-air museum, visited each year by millions of tourists, scholars and pilgrims from all over the world.
It is hard to believe that Roman civilization began with a small settlement of shepherds and farmers near the Tevere river, on Palatino (one of the seven hills on which Rome was built and where most of the Roman archaeological treasures were found), tradition dictates that this is where Romulus founded the city and where Augustus, the first Emperor, built his house, which is now widely (and incorrectly) known as the house of Livia, his wife.
The city extended over six other hills: Quirinale, Viminale, Esquilino, Celio, Aventino and Capitolino.
Quirinale, the highest of the seven hills, has Piazza Omonima on its summit, with its colossal statues of the gods, Castor and Pollux and the Palazzo del Quirinale, where the president lives. Opposite the Palazzo are the Scuderie, open to the public thanks to the architect Gae Aulenti, who created a functional exhibition space inside the building.
Viminale stands next to Quirinale, it is smaller in size, split into two by Via Nazionale, and dominated by the huge Palazzo delle Esposizioni building (designed by Pio Piacentini) on Piazza della Repubblica, near Rome's principal railway station, Stazione Termini. Piazza della Repubblica is one of the most beautiful piazzas in Rome, surrounded by arches. The restored Fontana delle Naiadi takes pride of place in the centre of the square.
Esquilino is the home of the great poets Virgilio and Orazio. It has three peaks, one of which is Monte Oppio, where you can find the ruins of Domus Aurea, finally opened to the public after years of restoration. Initially, Esquilino was a suburb of Rome, which is the reason for the nickname 'exquilini' (non-tenants) given to its inhabitants, some believe that this is how the hill got its name.
Further south stand Celio and Aventino. The former has a long promontory, called Monte delle Querce, as it was once home to many oak trees (querce). It is possibly the greenest and most charming of the seven hills and is home to Parco del Celio and Villa Celimontana. There are many beautiful buildings here, especially along the magnificent Appia Antica. Almost all are places of worship. Both Aventino and Celio have few inhabitants. Aventino is rich in important medieval monuments such as the Santa Maria in Cosmedin basilica, where the famous Bocca della Verità, or mouth of truth, is housed.
Last but not least is Capitolino, which stands between Palatino and Quirinale: this used to be the religious and political centre of the city during the Roman era. It is dominated by the Michelangelo styled Piazza del Campidoglio, perfectly proportioned, with a statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius on horseback in the centre. Located here, the Capitoline Museums, have some of the most precious art collections in the world.
The seven hilltops offer a number of beautiful views; the most breathtaking of these are Pincio, the dome of San Pietro (St. Peter's Basilica) and the Gianicolo.
Rome has spread outwards in a rather haphazard manner, without much regard to town planning; many fields were acquired by the local authorities and transformed into new neighbourhoods. North of Rome, near the Vatican are the Aurelio, Prati and Mazzini neighbourhoods, which are more commercial and residential, as well as the elegant quarters of Parioli and Nomentano, home to many foreign embassies. At nearby Montesacro, visit Ponte Nomentano, the storied fortified bridge that has seen the rise and fall of many eras. Neighbouring Monteverde is home to Villa Doria Pamphili, the largest park in all of Rome. Further south are Prenestino and Tiburtino, more populated areas, due to the fact that they are university areas, full of students, who can also be found in the nearby S. Lorenzo, a charming district with a wide variety of pizzerias and bars. Trastevere, is undoubtedly one of the most charming areas of the city, and one of the most crowded areas too - especially on summer evenings. Many people (foreigners and Romans alike) want to live in this highly desirable district, home of historic places of worship such as the Santa Maria in Trastevere and hot night spots like Trastè. Finally, Eur, one of Rome's most modern neighbourhoods, is home to some fascinating Fascist-style architecture, as evidenced by the many offices and administration centres in and around the Piazzale delle Nazioni Unit
Monaco
Monaco (mŏn'əkō, mōnä'kō, Fr. mônäkō') , officially Principality of Monaco, independent principality (2005 est. pop. 32,400), c.370 acres (150 hectares), on the Mediterranean Sea, an enclave within Alpes-Maritimes dept., SE France, near the Italian border. It consists of four adjoining quarters—La Condamine, the business district; Monte Carlo, the site of the famous casino; Monaco-Ville, the capital, atop a rocky promontory; and Fontvieille, an area of light industry built largely on reclaimed land.
Land and People
Monaco's beautiful location, natural harbor, exceptionally mild climate, and gambling tables in Monte Carlo make it one of the best-known resorts of the Riviera. Almost half of the mainly Roman Catholic population are French, while about 16% are citizens of Monaco and an equal number are Italian. French is the official language, but English, Italian, and Monegasque (a Romance dialect similar to Provençal) are also widely spoken.
The casino contains a theater, which houses the Monte Carlo Opera. Monaco has a 16th-century palace, a 19th-century cathedral in the Byzantine style, and a noted oceanographic museum, founded in 1910 by Prince Albert I. Auto racing is popular, and Monaco is home to both the Monte Carlo Rally and the Monaco Grand Prix. The Monte Carlo Open is a major professional tennis tournament.
Government
In accordance with the 1962 constitution, Monaco is governed by the ruling monarch, who is assisted by a minister of state (selected by the monarch from three candidates nominated by France), a cabinet (the Council of the Crown), and the National Council, which is elected by universal suffrage every five years. The prince may initiate legislation, but all laws must be approved by the National Council. Monaco has a police force and a Royal Guard that has some 65 members. By a treaty of 1918, the succession to the throne must be approved by the French government. A law had long stipulated that should the throne become vacant for any reason, including the death of a Grimaldi ruler without a direct blood heir, Monaco would become an autonomous state under French protection. In 2002 the constitution was amended so that any sibling of a ruler who died without issue could inherit the throne.
History
Probably settled by Phoenicians in ancient times, Monaco was annexed by Marseilles and Christianized in the 1st cent. A.D. In the 7th cent. it was part of the kingdom of the Lombards, and in the 8th cent. of the kingdom of Arles. It was under Muslim domination (8th cent.) after the Saracens invaded France.
Monaco was ruled by the Genovese Grimaldi family from the 13th cent. In 1731 the male line died out, but the French Goyon-Matignon family, which succeeded by marriage, assumed the name Grimaldi. Monaco was under Spanish protection from 1542 to 1641, under French protection from 1641 to 1793, annexed to France in 1793, and under Sardinian protection from 1815 to 1861. The districts of Menton and Roquebrune (long part of Monaco) were incorporated (1848) into Sardinia, which in turn ceded them to France in 1860.
Monaco again came under French protection in 1861. In the late 1800s income from gambling by very wealthy visitors became Monaco's primary source of revenue. Until 1911, when the first constitution was promulgated, the prince was an absolute ruler. Rainier III, succeeded his grandfather, Louis II, as ruler of Monaco in 1949. In 1956, Rainier married Grace Kelly (1929–82), an American motion-picture actress, and a male heir, Albert, was born in 1958. Rainier worked to diversify Monaco's economy and make Monaco attractive to middle-class tourists.
In 1962 serious economic disagreements arose between France and Monaco, and new fiscal agreements (1963) severely curtailed the right of French citizens to use Monaco as a tax haven. The Monaco government also came into conflict with Aristotle Onassis, who owned majority interests in most businesses there; Monaco purchased his interests in 1967. Relations with France again became acrimonious in 2000 when Monaco was accused of being a center for money-laundering and France threatened to force the principality to tighten the regulation of its banks. Rainier died in 2005 and was succeeded as ruler by his son, Albert II.
Land and People
Monaco's beautiful location, natural harbor, exceptionally mild climate, and gambling tables in Monte Carlo make it one of the best-known resorts of the Riviera. Almost half of the mainly Roman Catholic population are French, while about 16% are citizens of Monaco and an equal number are Italian. French is the official language, but English, Italian, and Monegasque (a Romance dialect similar to Provençal) are also widely spoken.
The casino contains a theater, which houses the Monte Carlo Opera. Monaco has a 16th-century palace, a 19th-century cathedral in the Byzantine style, and a noted oceanographic museum, founded in 1910 by Prince Albert I. Auto racing is popular, and Monaco is home to both the Monte Carlo Rally and the Monaco Grand Prix. The Monte Carlo Open is a major professional tennis tournament.
Government
In accordance with the 1962 constitution, Monaco is governed by the ruling monarch, who is assisted by a minister of state (selected by the monarch from three candidates nominated by France), a cabinet (the Council of the Crown), and the National Council, which is elected by universal suffrage every five years. The prince may initiate legislation, but all laws must be approved by the National Council. Monaco has a police force and a Royal Guard that has some 65 members. By a treaty of 1918, the succession to the throne must be approved by the French government. A law had long stipulated that should the throne become vacant for any reason, including the death of a Grimaldi ruler without a direct blood heir, Monaco would become an autonomous state under French protection. In 2002 the constitution was amended so that any sibling of a ruler who died without issue could inherit the throne.
History
Probably settled by Phoenicians in ancient times, Monaco was annexed by Marseilles and Christianized in the 1st cent. A.D. In the 7th cent. it was part of the kingdom of the Lombards, and in the 8th cent. of the kingdom of Arles. It was under Muslim domination (8th cent.) after the Saracens invaded France.
Monaco was ruled by the Genovese Grimaldi family from the 13th cent. In 1731 the male line died out, but the French Goyon-Matignon family, which succeeded by marriage, assumed the name Grimaldi. Monaco was under Spanish protection from 1542 to 1641, under French protection from 1641 to 1793, annexed to France in 1793, and under Sardinian protection from 1815 to 1861. The districts of Menton and Roquebrune (long part of Monaco) were incorporated (1848) into Sardinia, which in turn ceded them to France in 1860.
Monaco again came under French protection in 1861. In the late 1800s income from gambling by very wealthy visitors became Monaco's primary source of revenue. Until 1911, when the first constitution was promulgated, the prince was an absolute ruler. Rainier III, succeeded his grandfather, Louis II, as ruler of Monaco in 1949. In 1956, Rainier married Grace Kelly (1929–82), an American motion-picture actress, and a male heir, Albert, was born in 1958. Rainier worked to diversify Monaco's economy and make Monaco attractive to middle-class tourists.
In 1962 serious economic disagreements arose between France and Monaco, and new fiscal agreements (1963) severely curtailed the right of French citizens to use Monaco as a tax haven. The Monaco government also came into conflict with Aristotle Onassis, who owned majority interests in most businesses there; Monaco purchased his interests in 1967. Relations with France again became acrimonious in 2000 when Monaco was accused of being a center for money-laundering and France threatened to force the principality to tighten the regulation of its banks. Rainier died in 2005 and was succeeded as ruler by his son, Albert II.
Milan - Italy
Arguably one of Europe's – if not the world's – most style-conscious cities, Milan is no place to visit unless your pockets are deep. Indeed, walk a few blocks north of Piazza della Scalla, and you'll find yourself in the heart of one of the world's most prolific shopping districts, where storefronts bear the names of such fashion icons as Armani, Prada, Versace, and Gianfranco Ferré. While Via Monte Napoleone and Via della Spiga may be 'troppo costoso,' great deals on everything from antiques to last season's designs may be found in Milan's many public markets, places like Mercato Papiniano, Via Armorori, and Via Fiori Chiari. However, Milan is not all about shopping, and first-time visitors to the ancient city will find enough things to do for a whole summer, let alone a week. The Renaissance city, founded in the 7th century BC, has been conquered and ruled by scores of invaders, from Gauls and Franks to Celts and Hapsburgs. As a result, the Milanese had to rebuild the city on three different occasions – 1944 was the last time – and much original architecture has been replaced by modern edifices. However, scores of gems are still to be found, including the Basilica di Sant Ambrogio, constructed in the Lombard Romanesque design and containing a breathtaking 9th century altar cast in precious metals; Doumo, Italy's largest Gothic cathedral, consecrated in 1577 but not completed until the waning years of the 19th century; Cenacolo Vinciano, a convent wherein Leonardo da Vinci labored over his powerful "Last Supper"; Castello Sforzesco, a once-proud military stronghold whose defenses were designed by the versatile da Vinci and which now houses a treasure trove of Milanese antiques and artwork by Titian, Van Dyck, Tiepolo, and Michelangelo; and the Teatro alla Scallo (1778), perhaps the world's most famous theater, and its adjoining museum, which celebrates the likes of Verdi, Arturo, Toscanini, and Maria Callas. Gastronomy, too, is an art form to be taken seriously in Milan, which boasts a proud culinary reputation and countless sidewalk cafés dotting its busy streets. The city's oldest restaurant, Boeucc Antico Ristorante on Piazza Belgioso, has been open since the 17th century and continues to impress. Some twenty miles outside of the city, an 18th century country inn in Cassinetta di Lugagnano called Antica Osteria del Ponte enjoys the reputation of being one of Italy's, and perhaps Europe's, finest restaurants. Nighttime in Milan is no time to slow down – you have to go somewhere to show off new additions to your wardrobe, no? – and trendy bars and dance clubs lie in wait in Porto Genova and other chic neighborhoods. Of course, one night of opera at La Scalla is a must, although tickets are hard to come by. If you visit during festival time – Carnivale and Festa della Nivola are among the best – count yourself lucky, since few cities know how to throw a party like Milan.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Barcelona
Geography
Barcelona is the capital and most populated city of Catalonia and the second largest city in Spain. It is located on the northeast coast of the Iberian Peninsula, facing the Mediterranean Sea, on a plateau approximately 5 km wide and limited by the mountain range of Collserola. The Catalan capital, 166 kilometres from the French border and 120 kilometres south of the Pyrenees, is bordered by two rivers: the Llobregat in the south and the Besòs in the north.
Museums
Barcelona houses a great number of museums, which cover different areas and eras. The National Museum of Art of Catalonia possesses a well-known collection of Romanesque art while the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art focuses on post-1945 Catalan and Spanish art. The Fundació Joan Miró, Picasso Museum and Fundació Antoni Tàpies hold important collections of these world-renowned artists.
Several museums cover the fields of history and archeology, like the City History Museum, the Museum of the History of Catalonia, the Archaeology Museum of Catalonia, the Barcelona Maritime Museum and the private-owned Egyptian Museum. The Erotic museum of Barcelona is among the most peculiar ones, while Cosmocaixa is a science museum that received the European Museum of the Year Award in 2006.
Entertainment
Theatres and cinemas:
On working days, most cinemas have four showings between 4:00 in the afternoon and 10:00 in the evening. On weekends, some cinemas have matinees, at 11.30 or 12:00 noon, and late night showings at about 12:30 or 1:00 in the morning. Most theatres have one daily show, normally starting between 9:00 and 10:30 in the evening. Some theatres, however, have two shows, especially on Saturdays, with show times at 6:00 and 9:00 or 10:00 in the evening.
Discotheques and clubs:
Clubs and bars with DJs or recorded music generally open from 6:30 in the evening to 3:00 in the morning, while discotheques open at 11:30 pm and close at about 4:30 am.
Shopping
The Rambla, the Ribera, Plaça de Catalunya, Passeig de Gràcia, Diagonal and the numerous shopping centres scattered round the city and its suburban areas attract a large part of the shoppers. But throughout the city one finds many lesser known shopping streets and neighbourhood shops, besides the city markets and street fairs, where one can buy all sorts of items at a fair price.
Shops in Barcelona open their doors between 9:00 and 10:00 in the morning, and generally close for lunch at 1:30 or 2:00. They open again in the afternoon between 4:00 and 5:00 and remain open until 8:00 or 8:30 in the evening.
Nevertheless, it should be noted that many shopping centres and larger establishments do not close at midday. Many shops and all department stores and shopping centres open on Saturday afternoons, while all shops close on Sundays, except for a few dates when they are permitted to open.
Barcelona is the capital and most populated city of Catalonia and the second largest city in Spain. It is located on the northeast coast of the Iberian Peninsula, facing the Mediterranean Sea, on a plateau approximately 5 km wide and limited by the mountain range of Collserola. The Catalan capital, 166 kilometres from the French border and 120 kilometres south of the Pyrenees, is bordered by two rivers: the Llobregat in the south and the Besòs in the north.
Museums
Barcelona houses a great number of museums, which cover different areas and eras. The National Museum of Art of Catalonia possesses a well-known collection of Romanesque art while the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art focuses on post-1945 Catalan and Spanish art. The Fundació Joan Miró, Picasso Museum and Fundació Antoni Tàpies hold important collections of these world-renowned artists.
Several museums cover the fields of history and archeology, like the City History Museum, the Museum of the History of Catalonia, the Archaeology Museum of Catalonia, the Barcelona Maritime Museum and the private-owned Egyptian Museum. The Erotic museum of Barcelona is among the most peculiar ones, while Cosmocaixa is a science museum that received the European Museum of the Year Award in 2006.
Entertainment
Theatres and cinemas:
On working days, most cinemas have four showings between 4:00 in the afternoon and 10:00 in the evening. On weekends, some cinemas have matinees, at 11.30 or 12:00 noon, and late night showings at about 12:30 or 1:00 in the morning. Most theatres have one daily show, normally starting between 9:00 and 10:30 in the evening. Some theatres, however, have two shows, especially on Saturdays, with show times at 6:00 and 9:00 or 10:00 in the evening.
Discotheques and clubs:
Clubs and bars with DJs or recorded music generally open from 6:30 in the evening to 3:00 in the morning, while discotheques open at 11:30 pm and close at about 4:30 am.
Shopping
The Rambla, the Ribera, Plaça de Catalunya, Passeig de Gràcia, Diagonal and the numerous shopping centres scattered round the city and its suburban areas attract a large part of the shoppers. But throughout the city one finds many lesser known shopping streets and neighbourhood shops, besides the city markets and street fairs, where one can buy all sorts of items at a fair price.
Shops in Barcelona open their doors between 9:00 and 10:00 in the morning, and generally close for lunch at 1:30 or 2:00. They open again in the afternoon between 4:00 and 5:00 and remain open until 8:00 or 8:30 in the evening.
Nevertheless, it should be noted that many shopping centres and larger establishments do not close at midday. Many shops and all department stores and shopping centres open on Saturday afternoons, while all shops close on Sundays, except for a few dates when they are permitted to open.
Friday, February 8, 2008
Venice Attractions
One of the best things to do in Venice is to take some time wandering along the canals off the main tourist track. Venice has many fine attractions and museums. Here are some of the top things to see in Venice:
* San Marco Square - Piazza San Marco is the main square of Venice surrounded by chic sidewalk cafes and fancy shops. While it's a great place to enjoy the scenery and people, you will definitely pay top price to sit at an outdoor table. In the evening, you can listen to live music, too. Walking in the piazza and taking photos is, of course, free.
* Saint Mark's Basilica - Basilica di San Marco is a beautiful church blending the architecture of East and West. It was consecrated in 832 AD.
* Doge's Palace - Palazzo Ducale, also on St. Mark's Square, is the most impressive building in Venice and well worth a tour. It was the political and judicial hub of Venetian government until the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797. The palace was connected to its prisons by the famous "Bridge of Sighs."
* Grand Canal - Canal Grande is the main thoroughfare of Venice. It's full of all kinds of boats and liined with beautiful buildings.
* Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto), the main bridge crossing the Grand Canal in the heart of Venice, is over 400 years old. Nearby is the Rialto Market, an interesting and lively food market with lots of little shops.
* Galleria del'Accademia is one of Italy's best art museums with 24 rooms in 3 historic buildings. Get there early to avoid the crowds.
So don't miss it.....
* San Marco Square - Piazza San Marco is the main square of Venice surrounded by chic sidewalk cafes and fancy shops. While it's a great place to enjoy the scenery and people, you will definitely pay top price to sit at an outdoor table. In the evening, you can listen to live music, too. Walking in the piazza and taking photos is, of course, free.
* Saint Mark's Basilica - Basilica di San Marco is a beautiful church blending the architecture of East and West. It was consecrated in 832 AD.
* Doge's Palace - Palazzo Ducale, also on St. Mark's Square, is the most impressive building in Venice and well worth a tour. It was the political and judicial hub of Venetian government until the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797. The palace was connected to its prisons by the famous "Bridge of Sighs."
* Grand Canal - Canal Grande is the main thoroughfare of Venice. It's full of all kinds of boats and liined with beautiful buildings.
* Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto), the main bridge crossing the Grand Canal in the heart of Venice, is over 400 years old. Nearby is the Rialto Market, an interesting and lively food market with lots of little shops.
* Galleria del'Accademia is one of Italy's best art museums with 24 rooms in 3 historic buildings. Get there early to avoid the crowds.
So don't miss it.....
Valencia
One of the biggest cities in Spain, and among the most livelies. It is located at the Mediterranean sea, and you will find beaches right in the very heart of it. During the summer-months it is heavily visited by tourists, and if you want to spend holidays at the beach, with fantastic possibilities for any kind of sports (golf, diving, cycling, tennis, etc. are all very popular here) and a boiling nightlife, together with an ample cultural offer, then Valencia is the place for you. Important trade fairs confirm Valencia's position as one of the most dynamic cities in Spain.
After all that probably you will get hungry , and you have the chance to try Spain's most famous food right where it was born: "Paella Valenciana"
Then Valencia is of course the city where "El Cid", Spain's national hero, fought against the Moors, and popular festivals in the city and many villages around still remind of this epoch.
After all that probably you will get hungry , and you have the chance to try Spain's most famous food right where it was born: "Paella Valenciana"
Then Valencia is of course the city where "El Cid", Spain's national hero, fought against the Moors, and popular festivals in the city and many villages around still remind of this epoch.
Niagara Falls
Ontario's Niagara Parks was established on May 24th 1888, to preserve and enhance the natural beauty of Niagara Falls, the Niagara Gorge and the Niagara River. Today, the Niagara Parks consists of 3,099 acres stretching 35 miles (56km) along the Niagara River between Fort Erie and Niagara on the Lake. From natural majestic beauty of the Falls of Niagara...to the manicured green lawns and emerald parks...to the excitement of many exhilarating attractions, the Niagara Parks is one of the finest and most stunningly beautiful parks in North America. The jewels in the Niagara Parks system are Queen Victoria Park , Queenston Heights Park, the Niagara Glen and Kings Bridge Park. Cost to enter the park is free.
The Americans acted unilaterally in the development of the New York Reservation State Park at Niagara Falls. The park became reality on April 30th 1885 when signed into law by Governor Hill. The new Reservation State Park would consist of 412 acres including Prospect Park, Goat Island and Bath Island. The cost to create this park was estimated at approximately $1.4 million dollars. The New York Reservation State Park was officially opened to the public on July 15th 1885. Cost to enter the park is free.
The Americans acted unilaterally in the development of the New York Reservation State Park at Niagara Falls. The park became reality on April 30th 1885 when signed into law by Governor Hill. The new Reservation State Park would consist of 412 acres including Prospect Park, Goat Island and Bath Island. The cost to create this park was estimated at approximately $1.4 million dollars. The New York Reservation State Park was officially opened to the public on July 15th 1885. Cost to enter the park is free.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Phuket History
Phuket Island was assumed by geologists to be once part of the mainland in the form of a cape sticking out into the Andaman Sea but millions of years later the cape was gradually eroded by natural forces and finally detached from the main land. The cape was mentioned in a book written around the year 157 by Claudius Ptolemy, a famous Greek philosopher, that to travel to Malay Peninsula by ship, the travellers had to pass a cape known among them as Junk Ceylon. It was located between latitudes 6 N and 8 N which is the present site of Phuket Island. Junk Ceylon was at that time visited by merchants of several nations including India, Persia, and Arabia because the island offered a bay that protected its harbour from the wind and monsoon, making it a good stopover. Moreover, it had plenty of tin ore deposits that fetched high prices at that time because the mineral was much wanted by some foreign countries.
Junk Ceylon was later known among the locals as Thalang, which was also the name of the main town in the north of the island. In 1785, Thalang town was besieged by the Burmese troops invading the coastal area but Chan, the widow of the governor who had just died, and her sister Muk rose to the occasion by jointly shouldering the successful task of defending the land for over 30 days until starvation forced the enemy to retreat. Due to their heroic deeds, noble titles were bestowed on Chan and Muk as Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon respectively. In 1966 a monument was erected at Tha Ruea Intersection, 12 km to the north of Phuket Town in memory of the sisters, who are still highly respected by Phuket people nowadays.
However, 24 years later, the Burmese succeeded in taking Thalang and many Thalang people fled to Phang-nga and Krabi. In 1825, some of them returned and re-establish a town on a new location but soon they moved back to their original site because of its better location for rice farming. This return of Thalang people did not make their town as important as in the past. Instead, the area in the south of the island (Phuket town today) grew quickly and became the centre of tin trade at that time. Known as Phuket, it was elevated to be a town in 1850. More people immigrated from Thalang and the nearby communities to Phuket. In 1894, Phuket was promoted to be a monthon (an administrative unit of that time). An important person who constructed Phuket as a modern city was Phraya Ratsada, who was appointed to govern Phuket monthon in 1902. His contributions also included improving the welfare of the locals, and setting up a network of markets in the countryside. In 1916, Phuket became a province. It was not until 1967 that Sarasin Bridge was built to connect the main land with Phuket.
Though the tin mining industry has played a specially important role in the economic development of the island province, it has declined especially after 1985 when the price of tin fell by half. The decline has also been due to the gradual decrease in the deposits after centuries of exploitation. So, Phuket had to look for a new industry on which to base its future economic development. Fortunately, its natural beauty was soon discovered and there was a boom of tourism in 1980's, which has lasted up to the 21st century.
Junk Ceylon was later known among the locals as Thalang, which was also the name of the main town in the north of the island. In 1785, Thalang town was besieged by the Burmese troops invading the coastal area but Chan, the widow of the governor who had just died, and her sister Muk rose to the occasion by jointly shouldering the successful task of defending the land for over 30 days until starvation forced the enemy to retreat. Due to their heroic deeds, noble titles were bestowed on Chan and Muk as Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon respectively. In 1966 a monument was erected at Tha Ruea Intersection, 12 km to the north of Phuket Town in memory of the sisters, who are still highly respected by Phuket people nowadays.
However, 24 years later, the Burmese succeeded in taking Thalang and many Thalang people fled to Phang-nga and Krabi. In 1825, some of them returned and re-establish a town on a new location but soon they moved back to their original site because of its better location for rice farming. This return of Thalang people did not make their town as important as in the past. Instead, the area in the south of the island (Phuket town today) grew quickly and became the centre of tin trade at that time. Known as Phuket, it was elevated to be a town in 1850. More people immigrated from Thalang and the nearby communities to Phuket. In 1894, Phuket was promoted to be a monthon (an administrative unit of that time). An important person who constructed Phuket as a modern city was Phraya Ratsada, who was appointed to govern Phuket monthon in 1902. His contributions also included improving the welfare of the locals, and setting up a network of markets in the countryside. In 1916, Phuket became a province. It was not until 1967 that Sarasin Bridge was built to connect the main land with Phuket.
Though the tin mining industry has played a specially important role in the economic development of the island province, it has declined especially after 1985 when the price of tin fell by half. The decline has also been due to the gradual decrease in the deposits after centuries of exploitation. So, Phuket had to look for a new industry on which to base its future economic development. Fortunately, its natural beauty was soon discovered and there was a boom of tourism in 1980's, which has lasted up to the 21st century.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Maldives Island
The Maldives is in fact an archipelago of some 1,190 islands, formed into 26 natural atolls, and grouped in double rows like a necklace of islands, set vertically across the equator and situated in the Indian Ocean. The archipelago of Maldives is made up of small, low-lying white sandy islands and islets each abundant and unique in its natural splendor. , formed into 26 natural atolls, and grouped in double rows like a necklace of islands, set vertically across the equator and situated in the Indian Ocean. The archipelago of Maldives is made up of small, low-lying white sandy islands and islets each abundant and unique in its natural splendor.
It is believed that these unique coral atolls were formed about 65 to 200 million years ago from the crust of a deceased volcanic mountain range. The atoll#s (the word atoll was adapted to English from its Maldivian origin "atholhu") are formed from coral barrier reefs. The part of the reefs, which protrude from the sea form into islands, as, destroyed coral parts gather thus giving them the attribute of white sandy beaches. Having being protected by the reefs, the lagoons are calm and crystal-clear with abundant species of fish and coral. Out of the total of some 1,190 islands in the Maldives, about 200 are inhabited. The total land area of all these islands put together will amount to the size of a small city. The capital of the country is Male' situated within close proximity of the island that house the Male' International airport.
Its principal building blocks being coral, the Maldivian seas with its bountiful and colorful underwater fauna and flora is the closest you can get to an# underwater paradise. These qualities together with the hospitality offered by the resorts and the Maldivian people have made it one of the most desired tourist destinations of the world
Maldives is the flattest country in the World with no natural land higher than 2.4 metres (7.9 ft) above sea level. It is 99% water. An archipelago of 26 major atolls constituted by 1190 coral islands stretching 820 KM North – South and 120 Kms East – West, out of which 202 are inhabited and 87 are exclusive resort islands.
For Ptolemy, the Greek geographer, the Maldives was a multitude of islands. Ancient Chinese navigators, referring to the maze of lagoons and reefs that require great care in navigation, knew it as the Three Thousand Weak Waters. Marco Polo, the Venetian traveler, found the islands to be "the flower of the Indies". For Ibn Batuta, who traveled extensively during the 14th century and actually lived on the islands, the Maldives was "one of the wonders of the world".
Beaches and top dive locations in the world where professional dive training is given to the beginners and beautiful reefs
It is believed that these unique coral atolls were formed about 65 to 200 million years ago from the crust of a deceased volcanic mountain range. The atoll#s (the word atoll was adapted to English from its Maldivian origin "atholhu") are formed from coral barrier reefs. The part of the reefs, which protrude from the sea form into islands, as, destroyed coral parts gather thus giving them the attribute of white sandy beaches. Having being protected by the reefs, the lagoons are calm and crystal-clear with abundant species of fish and coral. Out of the total of some 1,190 islands in the Maldives, about 200 are inhabited. The total land area of all these islands put together will amount to the size of a small city. The capital of the country is Male' situated within close proximity of the island that house the Male' International airport.
Its principal building blocks being coral, the Maldivian seas with its bountiful and colorful underwater fauna and flora is the closest you can get to an# underwater paradise. These qualities together with the hospitality offered by the resorts and the Maldivian people have made it one of the most desired tourist destinations of the world
Maldives is the flattest country in the World with no natural land higher than 2.4 metres (7.9 ft) above sea level. It is 99% water. An archipelago of 26 major atolls constituted by 1190 coral islands stretching 820 KM North – South and 120 Kms East – West, out of which 202 are inhabited and 87 are exclusive resort islands.
For Ptolemy, the Greek geographer, the Maldives was a multitude of islands. Ancient Chinese navigators, referring to the maze of lagoons and reefs that require great care in navigation, knew it as the Three Thousand Weak Waters. Marco Polo, the Venetian traveler, found the islands to be "the flower of the Indies". For Ibn Batuta, who traveled extensively during the 14th century and actually lived on the islands, the Maldives was "one of the wonders of the world".
Beaches and top dive locations in the world where professional dive training is given to the beginners and beautiful reefs
Christmas Island
Christmas Island is an Australian-owned territory, yet it lies closer to the Indonesian island of Java. The remote oceanic island is rich with wildlife. It is home to more species of crabs than any other island, including enormous robber crabs, and is one of the most important sea-bird breeding colonies in the world.
Christmas Island is internationally famous for the spectacular annual migration of sixty million red land crabs, from the forest to the ocean to mate and spawn. These red crabs are currently facing an insidious biological invasion of the very worst kind. Super-colonies of yellow crazy ants, originating from Africa, are multiplying at an enormous rate, already wiping out an estimated fifteen million red crabs.
Structured around the crabs' annual November migration, this film documents the dramatic discovery by scientists and island rangers of the crazy ant catastrophe.
As the red crabs make their epic journey from the rain forest on the top plateau of the island, down through areas of human settlement, across roads where they dodge huge phosphate carrying trucks, the film will introduce the audience to the surreal situations which occur when humans share an island with millions of crabs.
It also introduces characters who have been studying the red crabs of Christmas Island for decades and who are devastated by the crab carnage created by the yellow crazy ants.
It's difficult to predict how far crazy ants will spread across the island. The future looks bleak but red crabs are resilient and only time will tell.
Christmas Island is internationally famous for the spectacular annual migration of sixty million red land crabs, from the forest to the ocean to mate and spawn. These red crabs are currently facing an insidious biological invasion of the very worst kind. Super-colonies of yellow crazy ants, originating from Africa, are multiplying at an enormous rate, already wiping out an estimated fifteen million red crabs.
Structured around the crabs' annual November migration, this film documents the dramatic discovery by scientists and island rangers of the crazy ant catastrophe.
As the red crabs make their epic journey from the rain forest on the top plateau of the island, down through areas of human settlement, across roads where they dodge huge phosphate carrying trucks, the film will introduce the audience to the surreal situations which occur when humans share an island with millions of crabs.
It also introduces characters who have been studying the red crabs of Christmas Island for decades and who are devastated by the crab carnage created by the yellow crazy ants.
It's difficult to predict how far crazy ants will spread across the island. The future looks bleak but red crabs are resilient and only time will tell.
Friday, February 1, 2008
Hawaii
Hawaii - the Aloha State - welcomes and seduces visitors with its plumeria-scented sea breezes and tropical warmth. This is where East merges with West in a blur of hula and hip-hop, soap operas and creation myths, junk food and Japanese tea ceremonies, Shinto shrines and surf clubs.
Mark Twain declared Hawaii to be 'the loveliest fleet of islands that lies anchored in any ocean', and not even 50 years of mass tourism have managed to prove him wrong. Whether your thing is volcano spotting, surfing or hanging loose on the beach, this is the place to indulge yourself.
Although Hawaii's busiest tourist season is during winter (December to February), this has more to do with the weather elsewhere, since many visitors are snowbirds escaping cold winters back home. Average temperatures differ very little from winter to summer. June through October is the hottest period, while rainfall is heaviest between December and March - neither extreme is worth worrying over. Hotel prices are lowest during the spring (April to mid-May) and autumn (October to mid-November).
Big holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years and Easter mean accommodation is tight and prices a bit higher. In terms of cost, visiting between mid-April and mid-November can be a bargain because some hotel prices drop in the off-season. Hotels and resorts catering to summertime vacationing families do not lower their rates significantly.
If you're a board surfer, you'll find the biggest waves in winter, whereas if you're a windsurfer, you'll find the best wind conditions in summer. Football freaks will want to plan holidays around the Hula and Pro Bowls, while cowboys might plan an adventure around big rodeos. Alternatively, you might want to avoid big-time events. For example, unless you've scored tickets to the Merrie Monarch Festival, visit Hilo another time.
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/usa/hawaii/
Mark Twain declared Hawaii to be 'the loveliest fleet of islands that lies anchored in any ocean', and not even 50 years of mass tourism have managed to prove him wrong. Whether your thing is volcano spotting, surfing or hanging loose on the beach, this is the place to indulge yourself.
Although Hawaii's busiest tourist season is during winter (December to February), this has more to do with the weather elsewhere, since many visitors are snowbirds escaping cold winters back home. Average temperatures differ very little from winter to summer. June through October is the hottest period, while rainfall is heaviest between December and March - neither extreme is worth worrying over. Hotel prices are lowest during the spring (April to mid-May) and autumn (October to mid-November).
Big holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years and Easter mean accommodation is tight and prices a bit higher. In terms of cost, visiting between mid-April and mid-November can be a bargain because some hotel prices drop in the off-season. Hotels and resorts catering to summertime vacationing families do not lower their rates significantly.
If you're a board surfer, you'll find the biggest waves in winter, whereas if you're a windsurfer, you'll find the best wind conditions in summer. Football freaks will want to plan holidays around the Hula and Pro Bowls, while cowboys might plan an adventure around big rodeos. Alternatively, you might want to avoid big-time events. For example, unless you've scored tickets to the Merrie Monarch Festival, visit Hilo another time.
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/usa/hawaii/
Borobudur
Borobudur, the temple on the hill is a complete initation to Buddhist art, religion and customs. It conveys the visitor to the heart of the life of Buddha with strong iconographical details.
Located at 42 kms west of Yogyakarta, on the island of Java in Indonesia, Borobudur - one of the most magnificent Buddhist shrines in the world - was built at the end of the 9th century by the Hindu kings of the Sailendra dynasty.
The plan for this stupa is a schematized representation of the cosmos, a mandala. After visiting its lower terraces decorated with bas-reliefs, pilgrims attain the shrine's crowning stupa, which symbolizes the Absolute.
Following in the footsteps of various discoverers, let us visit this unique and magnificent monument, which has since been restored by the Indonesian government and UNESCO.
Located at 42 kms west of Yogyakarta, on the island of Java in Indonesia, Borobudur - one of the most magnificent Buddhist shrines in the world - was built at the end of the 9th century by the Hindu kings of the Sailendra dynasty.
The plan for this stupa is a schematized representation of the cosmos, a mandala. After visiting its lower terraces decorated with bas-reliefs, pilgrims attain the shrine's crowning stupa, which symbolizes the Absolute.
Following in the footsteps of various discoverers, let us visit this unique and magnificent monument, which has since been restored by the Indonesian government and UNESCO.
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