Trabzon is one of the most important and largest ports on the Black Sea Coast. It is the gateway to this Sumela Monastery built into the face of a cliff. History shows a lot of them built at inaccessible places to keep away the looters, but very few showcase what this one does.

Built in 386 AD, and perched some 1200 meters above the surrounding forest area, the Monastery has a very large and posh complex. Legend claims its site of creation was inspired by the find of an icon of Virgin Mary there. The history of the past centuries is interesting if you wanna go thru it.

Today, it is one of the major tourist attractions for these simple reasons: it is a museum, its aesthetic, it’s in beautiful surroundings involving forests and streams, it has a religious significance and not many monasteries around the world can showcase such opulence, grandeur and style.

Trabzon is connected to Istanbul by a 1h40m flight, about 8-9 times a day.

Rendezvous with Turkey

Turkey settles astride two continents, Asia and Europe, with four different seas washing its shores. The geographical location of Turkey simply showers upon it, a varied climate and immense natural beauty. With its long and tumultuous history, the culture of Turkey is a blend of gracious Muslim traditions with modern sensibilities.

Heritage

Turkey, the birthplace of great rulers and civilizations, was consistently in the crosshairs of invaders from east and west. Each and every culture that marched across this land has left behind a magnificent heritage.

Ephesus, one of the best preserved classical cities in eastern Mediterranean, is definitely a must-see. Experience the Roman lifestyle when here. Then, Pergamum (modern Bergama) was once a major Roman city will again introduce you to different facets of Roman times. The friendly feel, splendid attractions and its laid-back attitude are perfect for independent travellers. And how can you resist a visit to Troy, city to which the royal Greek beauty, Helen, was abducted?

Istanbul, the net, cultural and enchanting capital city is easy to explore on foot. Pay a visit to Topkapi Palace for glimpse into the wondrous Ottoman Empire. Then, the view of Golden Horn estuary is simply priceless! The Aya Sofya and magnificent Blue Mosque are a must-visit for all culture vultures.

Nature

The beautiful Turkey is richly bestowed with natural wonders; the whole credit goes to the unique geography of the region. Cappadocia in central Turkey is famous for its unique landscape, formed by the eruptions from an extinct volcano, Mount Erciyes. The cave churches and underground apartments in Cappadocia are simply spectacular.

Many hot springs are also formed because of the volcanic activity. Out of them, the best known is Pamukkale, where waters beautifully come cascading down big, calcified “terraces”. On the top, Romans built a spa town named Hierapolis.
Eastern Turkey is simply opposite with rugged mountains and snow capped peak of Mount Ararat. It is the source of
This is also the source of the fabulous Tigris and Euphrates rivers.

When to Visit

Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are the best times to visit Turkey as climate will be perfect for sightseeing.

Turkey Food

Turkish food is a sumptuous fusion of many culinary traditions. Explore the delights of seafood, pilaf, baklava and kebabs in the cafes of Istanbul. There are plenty of options for veggies too – did you know that yogurt originated in Turkey?

Munsiyari Travel Guide

The scenic and serene Munsiyari is located at a height of 2,200 m above sea level, in the state of Uttarakhand. A destination unlike others, Munsiyari promises complete rejuvenation for the city bred soul. No rush of tourists, no must-see sights, no exclusive eateries, and no pony rides. This is what makes Munsiyari really special for travellers who come here to enjoy complete peace and comfort. A walk in the woods, an intake of fresh air, a cup of tea at some road side tea stall and views of spectacular sunset over the Panchauli peaks, if this is what you seek for, Munsiyari should be your choice of destination.

A perfect place for adventure seekers, Munsiyari offers a lot of opportunities for sport enthusiasts. Goriganga river bed is about 17 kilometres from Munsiyari and immensely popular for river rafting. Alpine slopes of Betulidhar and Khaliatop offer excellent skiing opportunities. Munsiyari also serves a perfect base for trek to glaciers like Ralam and Milam.

The distance of Munsiyari from most of the major cities of North India is the main reason for why it is still untouched and not so crowded. It is about 10hours drive from Almora and approximately 20 hours drive from Delhi. No surprise, only the serious travellers make it to Munsiyari.
Since, Munsiyari is small compare to other hill stations of the country, therefore, finding a wide choice of place to stay here is simply no. One of the popular accommodation options here is KMVN Tourist Rest House, which can be easily booked from any of the KMVN office located I various cities. Besides that, there is couple of private hotels and few guest houses in Munsiyari to accommodate tourists.

How to reach Munsiyari?

By Bus

About 550 kilometres, Delhi to Munsiyari is really a very long drive. A break journey at Vijaypur is recommended. When planning to travel by a public transport, you can take a bus from Anand Vihar ISBT to Almora and then to Munsiyari. A bus from Pithoragarh, which is about 129 kilometres from Munsiyari, can also be considered.

By Train

Kathgodam, about 319 kilometres, is the nearest rail head to Munsiyari.

Best Time to Visit Munsiyari

March to June and September to October is the best time to visit Munsiyari. Light woolens during summers and heavy woolens in winters are required.

What to do on Valentine’s Day?

Valentine's Day is a favourite among innumerous, accompanied by chocolates, flowers, romantic dinners and more, for the single traveller and even for a lot of couples; it leaves much to be desired. If you are not one of those who are scurrying around to find last minute gifts and dinner reservations, here I have covered on some alternative ideas for celebrating Valentine's Day. Here, I have put together 5 alternate activities to spend Valentine Day a bit different this year.

How about a road trip?

If you live in some metro city, it's common that most lounges, restaurants, and other places will all be packed to the full, means that there won’t be a chance of grabbing seat, unless you are thinking McDonalds. Well, it’s been really cold alright, so get on a road trip for half day or complete full day. Don’t forget to take your camera along and use it to the max.

Opt for a weekend getaway

Since this Valentine Day is falling on Monday, therefore, it’s certainly a perfect time to go on a long break. Add a day to your weekend to take a flight to some nearby destination. A lot of airlines and hotels offer exclusive Valentine Day specials for travellers.

Go outdoors

If you are like most of the other people who haven't spent much time outside this winter, which is all the more reason to go outdoors on Valentine's Day.

See a movie

Well, it doesn't have to be necessarily a romantic comedy, but you can use Valentine Day weekend to see some good flick too. Though the months of January and February aren't known for really good films, still a lot of holiday blockbusters would still be lingering around.

Exclusive time with self/beloved

If you have really nothing o do, why not try a secluded time with your beloved alone at home on Valentine's Day. While many couples are doing something entertaining and enjoyable to celebrate their love, you try something not so popular and flashy.

Packing List for a Beach Vacation

 

Beaches are an ideal choice when looking for soothing and relaxing holidays with sun, sand and cool breeze as your favourite company. However, many times we happen to make some mistakes when packing for a beach vacation. This can utterly ruin your great holiday. Go through the following checklist so that you don’t forget something important when next heading for that wonderful beach vacation.

Sunscreen Lotions: Definitely a must item in the packing list of any beach holiday, Sunscreens saves one from a lot of skin related problems. Skin cancer is the most hazardous one. Carry a sunscreen with minimum SPF 15 and more.

Sunglasses: A good pair of sunglasses is a must if you want to have a safe beach holiday. Hence, you must definitely carry good brand sunglasses which will save your eyes from harmful sun rays during noon time.

Swim Suit: Going on a beach vacation without a beach holiday is certainly a sign of foolishness. Each person must carry minimum of 2 suits so that one is always dry.

Clothes: Your holiday wardrobe must include all those clothes that match your holiday destination. For example, when going to Goa beach holidays, you must carry clothes that match weather out there.

Gear: Water sports lovers must not forget to carry beach related gears when going on a Goa holidays. Carrying surf board or skiing equipments can add fun factor to your holiday.

Camera: Well, camera is always a must when heading for any kind of holidaying. Just like other theme holidays, beach holidays also give a great chance to click memories amongst lovely backdrops. The first sunrise rays, sunsets, palm fringed beaches and spectacular pink skies are worth capturing and taking back home.

Toiletries: Never miss the important toiletries. Though a lot of them available at all places, still carrying the prime ones can save you from last minute run around. Keeping a face wash, toothbrushes, face cream, etc in your luggage is wise step.

First aid:  A really important thing which must be kept in all kind of travel. Especially on a beach holiday, it is necessary to have the first aid close by.

A very important item that you must include in your list is PATIENCE. Patience helps you face any difficult or urgency situation with a sound mind. Being calm and relaxed will make your holiday a wonderful one. Have a great trip!

Best Waterfalls in India

The waterfalls of India are fabulous as anywhere else in the world and some even more so. These natural spectacles can be found all over India and at all times of the year. However, if you want to see them in their best times, you must head to Ghats in the south during monsoons.

The abundant rainfall gives births to thousands of thunderous and magical waterfalls. Here, I have compiled some of the Best Waterfalls in India”, but get ready to see thousands of them.

What I like most about Waterfalls?

Well, who knows...? Perhaps it has some link ups with power of nature, the gravity thing, but it is certainly the powerful. Whatever is the reason, still thousands and thousands of people travel to see them each year. Truly, they are nature’s finest miracles.

Hogenakkal Waterfall

A spectacular series of waterfalls in India, it is located in the state of Tamil Nadu. The photo below gives a glimpse of stunningly beautiful rainbow. The complex of waterfalls in the middle river Kaveri all gears up to create a breathtaking view.

Abby Falls

Deep down in the Western Ghats of Karnataka nestles this beautiful waterfall with a lovely pool at its bottom for swimming lovers! It’s very much near to this small town Madikeri.

Kiliyur Waterfalls

Once again my favourite is another jewel of the south India, the Kilyur Falls. The waterfalls serve as a run of from the River Yercand and then proceed to drop 300 ft. To visit the falls, you have to make your way through Shervaoyan hill range, Tamil Nadu.

Savdav Waterfall

Savdav is another jewel in the world of waterfalls. The incredibly beautiful waterfall is at its best from June end to early September, which is ultimately the best time to see it too.

Koli Hills Waterfall

The Koli hills lies in Eastern Ghats and are beautiful all throughout the year.

Koli Hills waterfall is another spectacular waterfall of India and neatly settled on a magnificent valley close to the town of Salem.

Kumbalangi

Until five minutes ago, I was just passing my time on the internet – just reading some interesting travelogues- when suddenly an idea to phrase my words about this small hamlet named Kumbalangi situated on the outskirts of Cochin came to me. Many of my blog readers must have googled the name of the place by now and read up few facts about the destination. Well, without taking much time or confusing you in my own thoughts, here is some general description about the place by a person who loves to travel and thhen write about it at some point of  time (actually when he gets time).

As already told, Kumbalangi is a beautiful village situated on the outskirts of Cochin. But, besides being a beautiful destination, it’s also product packaged by Incredible India –UNDP project with a motto to make it popular as a Model Tourism Village for tourists. Now, you must be thinking, what does that mean? Well, nothing according to me, it’s just another marketing jargon.

Covering an area of 16 square kilometres, with a population of about 35,000, Kumbalangi is divided into Anjilithara, Kumbalangi and Kallanchery sectors. Malayalam is the spoke language here. Vast stretches of tranquil backwaters, perfect setting for country boat cruising, crab farming, prawn cultures and indigenous fishing, all this is a part of Kumbalangi village.

Kumbalangi is ever ready to lure tourists with its natural beauties and it specialties of a unique village life. Friendly and warm village folks – fishermen, boatmen and farmers- are ever ready to take travellers to the sea and paddy fields. In the evening times, travellers can experience pleasant ambience by walking along the mangroves in the smooth freshness of the cool breeze.

Reaching Kumbalangi

By Road

Since Kumbalangi is very near to Cochin City, therefore, reaching it is never a problem. Huge number of buses, both KSRTC and private ones, ply regularly towards Kumbalangi. Private bus service can be availed from Ernakulam in every 15-20 minutes.

By Rail

The nearest railway station is at Ernakulam, about 25 kilometres from Kumbalangi.

By Air

International Air Port at Nedumbassery, near Aluva, is about 40 kilometres from Kumbalangi, Kochi.

Roopkund Lake Trek

Roopkund trek is more than just a trip. This high altitude Himalayan trek is truly a lifetime experience. Here, you’ll be welcomed by some of the most beautiful views of Mother Nature which very few lucky people witness in their lives.

Here, you also get to witness various shades of nature, which can astonish any human. For many of us, each and every trek in the Himalayas in introduces us a whole set of new things that can be a life changing event every time.

Roopkund Lake is best under the shades of yellow sun when it sparkles a lot.

Birds, insects and lovely flowers celebrate the departure of dark clouds and sing welcome songs in respect of the rich new sky. Animals like mountain goats and mountain deer can all be seen in herds especially near to fresh filled waterholes.

The Roopkund Lake trek encloses in itself amazingly beautiful landscapes, serene ponds and some of the largest meadows of Garhwal. Human skeletons can be easily seen lying at the lake’s bottom during autumn season. Plus, the sight of Trishul and Nandaghunti peaks is worth seeing when on an adventurous Roopkund Lake Trek.

                                                                                                                       

Commonly called as ‘Mystery Lake’, Roopkund Lake is located at an altitude of 5029 metres and nestles between Nanda Ghunti (6310 metres) and Trishul peak (7100 metres).  It is named as Mystery Lake because some 30 years ago, nearly six hundred year old skeletons of human and horses were discovered here a renowned anthropologist D N Majumdar.

As per scientists, all these skeletons are either of the pilgrims who went to pilgrim from Rajat Yatra to Homekund, or are the remains of army of General Zorawar Singh who along with his army made a frivolous attempt to conquer the nation of Tibet, but wasn’t successful because of weather. The beautiful and mysterious lake attracts innumerous travellers from all around the world every year.  

The Roopkund Lake Trek originates from Mandoli and completes at Ghat near Nand Prayag.

Best Times to Trek: April to June and September to October end.

           

Cherrapunji- A land of incessant rains

North East India is a land of natural treasures. “Mother Nature” has blessed this region with immense natural beauties that can beckon you whole of your life.

Blue mountains, rocky hills, verdant valleys, lush green canopies, untamed gushing rivers, diverse flora and fauna are part and parcel of this region. Every single bit of this region is showered with natural wealth that can behold your attention at the very first sight. One such breathtaking destination is Cherrapunji.

Situated in the Meghalaya state of North east India, Cherrapunji has been declared as the “wettest place on earth” by the popular Guinness Book of World Records. A short drive of about 60 kilometres from Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, will take you to entirely new ambiance.

A place to cherish the ever-lasting beauties of nature, Cherrapunji travel is simply a must-experience. Cherrapunji is the only place in the whole world where monsoon can be enjoyed all round the year.

Incessant rainfalls, varying from light to medium to even light, there’s not even a single month without rain here. Rainfall here is measured in feet not in millimeters.

Paradise for botanists, Cherrapunji is a place that enfolds huge range of flora and fauna within its lap. Lush green scenery is not a common scenario in Cherrapunji as it assumed to be. Instead, colourful and rare ferns, orchids, moss plants and dense forests can all be seen here. Orange and pineapple orchards are a common sight here. Oranges of Cherrapunji are considered as the forefathers of the famous Nagpuri oranges.

Nearby area of Cherrapunji is also embellished with some splendid natural beauty for instance village of Mawsynram, which has recently acquired the title of the heaviest rainfall record. Few kilometers away from Cherrapunji is this spectacular cascading 1,035 ft high Mawsmai Falls. It is the fourth highest water falls in India and simply must-see.

The sad part is that this pristine town of Meghalaya is losing all its glory and charm due to pollution and deforestation. It’s high time and we should take some sincere steps to protect this gem of North east India.

Manali, a destination for the Honeymooners

There is only one and only place to go soon after your wedding is over but before the bridal mehndi has worn off and that is Manali. Very right, the popular north Indian hill station is simply unbeatable for a best honeymoon destination of the country for newly weds in the subcontinent.

Wander the main street or the mall and get ready to witness the energetic, romantic young couples enjoying ice creams, panipuri in each other’s company. The wild grins, couples romantically holding each other’s hand and forearm-spanning stacks of red and white coloured bangles displayed by new wives is a common sight in Manali.

Most of them remove and store the beautiful bright bangles after one after completion of one year and then wear only on certain special occasions. However, with changing trends, it’s now in fashion, amongst young brides, to wear them anytime and with all types of dresses, from sari to jeans.

Numerous mini-industries have settled in the city just to cater to the fancies of these young couples. You can easily locate sign-maker craftsmen decorating wooden plaques with name of couples and romantic phrases like “Happy Honeymoon in Manali”, knick-knacks can be bought along the mall side and many exclusive resorts have opened to cater to newly weds.

The exclusive hotels for honeymooners feature amenities like special suites having round shaped beds and decorated walls to lure newly wed couples looking forward to spend beautiful moments of their lives in these suites. Many such resorts or hotels can be easily located outside main Manali, in less crowded areas like Simsa, Chadiyari or Aleo. Howsoever unusual it might look, all these resorts possess their own unique charisma, like honeymoon suites, private discotheque and in some lavish cases, exquisite round shaped bathtubs in rooms simply to pamper couples.

Honeymooners in northern India land in Manali immediately after nuptials and some continue to visit the scenic place each year simply to re-ignite the romance flames in their married life.

Maldives Tour : An offer Hard to Miss, check it out!

Island of Maldives

Maldives, a dream destination for millions of travellers is all waiting for you with its arms wide open. Sun, sea and Sand, thousand of ‘Robinson Crusoe’ islands, huge lagoons with various depths and endless shades of water, shimmering underwater corals; Maldives holidays is an ideal combo of that perfect tropical holiday destinations.

Witness the exquisite Maldives sunset with love of your life! Capture the romance in scenic surroundings all around. Settled across the equator in the mid of Indian Ocean, this necklace of islands are a rare view of a tropical paradise. If in no mood of activity, simply laze around, and pamper your taste buds with mouth-watering local cuisines. For fun-freaks, there are endless opportunities to dive into marine flora and fauna of Maldives and relish immense pleasure via scuba diving and snorkeling. Some of the beast beaches and dive site are Banana Reef, North Male' Atoll, Baa Atoll, Raa Atoll, South Ari Atoll, North Ari Atoll, Vaavu Atoll, Dhaalu Atoll, Faafu Atoll and Lhaviyani Atoll.

Just came to know about this amazing Maldives Tour Offers from one of my friends, so thought of spreading it all over. No wonder who recently married couple or an adventure freak is looking for a budgeted Maldives holiday?

Departure Date	Return Date	Number of Days	Current price	Discounted Price
11-Dec-10	15-Dec-10	3 Night 3 Day	37,999	32,999
14-Dec-10	19-Dec-10	4 Night and 4 Day	41,999	36,999
18-Dec-10	22-Dec-10	3 Night 3 Day	39,999	34,999
28-Dec-10	2-Jan-11	4 Night and 4 Day	49,999	44,999

Explore the best of Maldives with exciting charter packages. Packages inclusions are as follows:

• Return economy class airfare on Kingfisher Airlines (Charter Flight) from Mumbai to Maldives (Gan Island)
• Current applicable airport taxes
• Accommodation in Herathera Island Resort – Maldives Tourism Dev Corp co-owned
• Daily breakfast & Indian dinner
• Return airport transfers by speedboat
• Services of a Tour Director

Get an additional Rupees 5000 flat discount on dream Maldives holiday for all December departures. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the divine Maldives!

Udaipur: The Venice of the East

Watermarked by splendour and whimsy, Udaipur, the Venice of the East is truly India’s most seductive cities. An international spot destination unto itself, Udaipur is best known for its magnificent Lake Pichola lapping against glittering white buildings and the Aravalli hills closing in to add charms to the view.

The main attraction of enchanting Udaipur is the magnanimously beautiful floating Lake Palace- impetus enough for Bond films (some parts of Octopussy were filmed here). Packed with royalty and passion, Udaipur is raw Rajput, with its imperial havelis, palaces and temples at every nook and cranny.

Formerly called as Mewar, the lake city was founded in the year 1559 by Maharaja Udai Singh II after he took flight from the final discharge of Chittor by Mughal emperor Akbar.

Simply splendid, no words can describe the beauty of this stunning city. Check out the following list of its top-most sights:

Must-see in Udaipur

Bagore-Ki-Haveli

This 18th- century Haveli, situated on the water’s edge in Gangaur Ghat region, was built by Amir Chand Badwa, the former prime minister of Mewar. The haveli has been carefully kept and consists of 138 room sets around courtyards. There’s also an ey-catching art gallery, displaying magnificent folk art and popular monuments beautifully carved out of polystyrene. An ambience for energetic Rajasthani dance programs sets up each evening at 19:00 in the upper courtyard.

City Palace

A brilliant work of architecture, City Palace, settled over the lake, is largest palace in Rajasthan, with its façade of 30.4 meters high and 224 meters long. Its construction was initiated by Maharaja Udai Singh II, the founder of the city, but its aggregation of buildings is built by several maharajas. However, beautiful City Palace still manages to portray an amazing uniformity in design. The views over the lake are simply breathtaking and perfect eye-curry.

           

Crystal Gallery

The amazing Crystal gallery at Fateh Prakash Palace Hotel is truly a sight worth seeing.  In year 1877, Maharaja Sajjan Singh ordered for a rare crystal from F&C Osler & Co in England. Unfortunately, he died before it arrived. For almost 110 years, all the items stayed packed. The ostentatious, unused, rare collection includes crystal sofas, chairs, tables and beds. No camera please as Photography is completely prohibited here.

Jagdish Temple

Just 150 metres north of City Palace main entrance, Jagdish Temple, was created by Maharaja Jagat Singh in the year 1651. The temple is truly a beautifully carved Indo-Aryan temple. A black stoned image of deity Lord Vishnu is respectfully placed inside the temple.

Shilpgram

This fabulous crafts village is situated 3 kilometres west of the town. The exquisite village holds a fabulous Shilpgram festival in every December. All around the year, the village also sees fantastic performances by traditional artisans and performers from Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Gujarat.

10 Reasons to Visit Bahamas This Holiday Season

1. Give yourself a refreshing break from regular routine life.
2. Enjoy s
3. It’s beautiful Bahamas after all – a real paradise!
4. cenic views of palm fringes and later on narrate stories to friends about them.
5. Fishing! Aww, at one point of time you will surely say that once you caught one big fish.
6. Snorkeling, something you must-try!
7. Put your sailing caps on and get on a sailing expedition.
8. Weather in Bahamas is pleasant and friendly all around the year and offers endless opportunities for all age-group people.
9. People in Bahamas drive on the left side of the road, so test you’re driving skills and see how skillful you are!
10. A visit to Jonas Brothers at Atlantis can give immense happiness to your teenage daughter if you have one.
11. Beaches, Beaches and beautiful beaches all around!

Delhi to Darjeeling Rajhdhani Express Train: A family-friendly train adventure.

If you ever hesitate at the notion of a long Indian road trip with small children – but nevertheless longed to get back to the good old days of the open Asian overland trails –Delhi to Darjeeling Rajhdhani Express Train might be just the easy, family-friendly adventure you are seeking.

The journey of some 26 hours or so (thus includes a descent night sleep onboard) will take you through the hinterlands of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, beginning its journey from India’s national capital Delhi to New Japaiguri, a junction town. Booking First Class AC tickets is a splendid way to watch Indian laze from the simple comfort of your own small cozy bed-equipped compartment. Freshly cooked food (curries, dhal, rice and chapattis) will arrive in a tray form on your lap in each four hours or so. Station stops provides you the opportunity to stock and munch upon tasty samosas, tea and bananas. Sufficient colouring books, indoor games and portable DVD, can offer parents immense relaxation and take them back in the days of backpacker travelling.

On reaching New Jalpaiguri, it’s still three hour drive up to scenic tea plantations of Darjeeling, wide spread beautifully along a steep mountain ridge. The journey can also undertaken by a 7 hour drive on famous ‘toy train’ of Darjeeling. In case, life on he rails has started to squeeze some of your luster, arrange yourself a stay at Glenburn Tea Estate, a charming working tea plantation hardly a one hour drive from Darjeeling. If you try it, you’ll discover yourself and your tedious charges picked up by some well-dressed driver, taking to a comfortable jeep journey, with idyllic surroundings all around.

If planning to stay in Darjeeling itself, a good bet with family is Mayfair Darjeeling, a luxuries property, nestled on a majestic hill, has hallowed halls where kids can giggle, scream and crash freely.

Explore ancient Buddhist gompas and pagodas. Let the little ones enjoy a pony ride up on The Mall or give a visit to Himalayan zoo. Early birds must climb Tiger Hill for amazing sunrise; enjoy a delicious lunch meal at historical Glenary’s café. After then water rafting on the River Teesta currents with older children can be a fun idea.

With all this, Darjeeling is one splendor which has lots to offer in terms of solace, adventure and fun. Pack your bags and gift your family a great time with a visit to lovely town this holiday season.

Where to go in December 2010?

 Patagonia, Argentina

What about an adventurous road trip along the coastal Rio Nego during Argentine lovely summer? Mild weather means exotic sea caves and fossil-laden cliffs. Plus, exploring Welsh settlements can be a splendid choice.

Austria

A chance to explore Europe’s best skiing, snow-covered streets of Salzburg’s and the divine festive fragrances of glühwein and cinnamon from the decorated Christmas markets can make Austria trip a fabulous way to screw winter blues.

Thailand

Thailand‘s fantabulous beaches are truly a hit during dry season. Try visiting Trang for exquisite islands and coasts; also don’t forget to pamper your taste buds with the exotic Thai cuisines.

Kerala, India

Just after monsoon says goodbye to Kerala, the entire state revitalizes and dresses up to entertain tourists. Begin your trip by visiting lush backwaters of Kollam, a serene trading town with abundance natural beauty all around.

Avoid visiting: Egypt

Sometimes, even the best of places can be dull by having to spend the entire time cheek-by-jowl with numerous other tourists. Half of the world will move to Egypt this December in quest of pyramids ‘n’ pharaohs’ experience. It’s better to wait for some time for your turn!

Top 5 Popular Festivals India

India is a highly religious country and festivals live in the hearts of people here. The many and varied festivals are celebrated all around the year and are truly a unique way to see Indian culture at its best. Below is the list of top 5 popular festivals of India that promise truly a lifetime experience.

Diwali

The festival of lights Diwali is a 5 day festival. The festival represents the beginning of a Hindu New Year. The candle, clay lamps, fireworks, exchange of sweets and infinite joy and happiness is what this beautiful festival is about. The festival of Diwali fills up the entire ambience with happiness and merriment.

Ganesh Chaturthi

The spectacular festival of Ganesh Chaturthi is an 11 day festival that portrays respect to the birth of the lovely Hindu elephant-headed god, Lord Ganesha. The commencement of the festival observes huge, extravagantly crafted statutes of Lord Ganesha installed in homes and podiums, all of them exclusively constructed and beautifully decorated. When the festival ends, these statutes are paraded through the streets, with crowds singing and dancing joyfully, and finally submerged in the oceans.

Holi

It is a 2 day festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil, along with the prosperity of the harvest season (spring).  The festival is commonly called as “Festival of Colours”. On this beautiful day people joyfully throw coloured powder and water on each other and have parties. Bhang, a drink made from cannabis plants is a part of tradition and consumed during celebrations.

Navaratri, Dussehra, and Durga Puja

The first 9 days of this festival is called as Navaratri. It’s celebrated to pay homage to Mother Goddess. The tenth day is called Dussehra devoted to celebrate the defeat of Ravana by Lord Rama. The day also coincides with the win of the respected warrior Goddess Durga over the Mahishasura, an evil buffalo demon.

In east India, the festival is called as Durga Puja. Huge images of Goddess are made and immerses in holy waters of Ganges on the 10^th day.

Krishna Janmashtami

Krishna Janmashtami, celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna. The festival is celebrated with intense happiness all over the country especially in Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna.

Kanyakumari, India

When a large number of travellers within and outside India check out some of the most popular tourist spots like Goa, Mumbai, Delhi etc, an excursion to Kanyakumari, situated at southernmost tip of India, is also worth visiting.

Formerly called as Cape Comorin, the spectacular destination is amongst the few places of the world where both sunrise and sunset can be seen exactly from the same position. The moment you see 133 feet high stone Thiruvalluvar Statue, you have reached Kanyakumari.

What's more, the already amazing sunrise and sunset is enhanced with three bodies of water hanging out in the background - the Indian Ocean, the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea.

Kanyakumari is immensely popular with tourists (about 2 million people visited Kanyakumari in year 2007). Hence, if possible avoid visiting it during months the months of April through September when it’s highly crowded. 

Travel Destinations for the Well Travelled

 In case you came across this blog for the first time or are a regular reader or desire to travel or are the one dying to have that lifetime, heart skipping, eye catching experience of a foreign land.  

Continue reading because the list below is compiled for the two types of travellers in you.

Adventure Rocks

• Hike in Ireland       
• Scuba Diving off  Indonesia   
• Ski in Vancouver Canada    
• Bicycle Thailand 
•  Surf Hawaii

 The Romantic Traveller

• Rent an enchanting castle in Italy ( mesmerizing April)
• Back Roads Tokyo
• Boating on the Nile
• Wine Country Chile

• Desert Safari, Yoga on a royal resort in Rajasthan India

My List of Top 5 European Islands

Perhaps it's because  there are some minute changes observed in the weather here in India  after those dreadful hot summers, I have started dreaming about an  exotic island vacation to some international destinations. And, happily for me, here is a list of the day that says top 5 best  European islands, perfect for that enchanting vacation to save oneself  from that chillingly cold climate.

Capri, Italy

Rhodes, Greece

Malta

Canary Islands, Spain

 Madeira Islands, Portugal

Have a favorite island that didn't make this list? Send me your photos and I'll add it to Mine!