User-agent: Mediapartners-Google Disallow: 2011 February | GoHoto Blog

Archive for February, 2011

Cameron Highlands

February 26th, 2011
Cameron Highland Hotels

Cameron Highlands

 

Cameron Highland, the largest and one of the most famous hill retreats in Malaysia. With its Tudor architectural buildings, abundantly spread tea-plantations and flower-beds, heart-throbbing landscapes and tranquil surroundings. Cameron Highland is undoubtedly a romantic haven blessed with rich flora and fauna, an abundant exotic flowers, fresh fruits, vegetables and tea is produced in this flourishing land of Cameron. You will definitely fall in love with the lovely sights of endless rows of colorful flowers and enchanting blossoms. The seductive charm and astonishing beauty of Cameron Highland lies in its numerous tourist attractions.

 

Gunung (Mount) Brinchang

Cameron Highland GoHoto

The must see attraction at Cameron is to make a trip to one of the Tea Plantations on Highland. The most famous tea gardens are Boh tea plantation, Sungai Palas and Cameron Valley tea plantation. The tea plantations are best place for a stroll followed by a cuppa of a refreshing tea. Believ it tastes better after a walk around the plantation, you feel more connected to it. Strawberry Farms are other popular natural attraction in Cameron Highlands. It is the only place in the country where this delicious juicy glossy red fruit is grown and harvested commercially.Red Fruit land Some of the famous strawberry farms are Big Red, Healthy, Kasimani and Raju’s Hill Strawberry Farms where you can taste some of the world’s best fresh strawberries, few strawberry drinks and buy jam. There are also Vegetable Farms spread all over the highland giving Cameron Highlands lush green scenery.

Most beautiful roses in MalaysiaCameron Highland is the leading producer of Malaysia’s best fresh flowers, hence a number of colorful flower gardens and nurseries are open for tourists to visit and have best photos with colorful background. Rose Centre and Rose Valley are the two most beautiful nurseries to get a beautiful bouquet of colorful roses for your sweetheart or just for yourself. Apart from roses, other popular flower varieties grown at the highland are carnations, dahlias, lilies, chrysanthemum, geranium, fuchsia, hibiscus and many more which takes you into a dazzling world filled with aroma and colors. Then there are the Honey Bee Farms where you can see the cultivation of bees and the production of honey and buy honey products. Also Butterfly GardenSee Fluttering butterflies from close and Butterfly Farm are very interesting places to visit around Cameron Highlands. It is just so beautiful to be surrounded by these colorful vibrant beings. I can promise you one thing you will smile and feel you are in a fairy land as you see thousands of beautiful butterflies fluttering around you amidst landscaped gardens filled with numerous exotic flowers and plants. It real!!

Apart from abundant natural places of interest Cameron Highlands offers Galleria Time Tunnel Gallery which is transformed into a local museum with its fine collection of various photographs and antiques depicting the early beginning and history of the Highland. The bustling Multicrops Central Market of Cameron is also a good place to shop for all the popular products city has under one roof. Other places of interest are;

Cameron Highlands hill retreats

Cameron Highlands hill retreats in Malaysia

 

Gunung (Mount) Brinchang, the highest point of Malaysia at 6,666 feet above sea level. It offers great views of Cameron Highlands and Perak. There are overnight camping packages, trekking packages available for Gunung Brichang There is a boardwalk which takes you at the top of Gunung Brichang which takes you through the Mossy forest, it has beautiful trees. Also while you are in Highlands make sure you book yourself for a rainforest adventure with some experienced Corpse Flower guides and see Rafflesia Flower the largest flower in the world!!! Also known as Corpse flower Yes that’s true because of its horrid smell . It is a weird plant, a parasitic plant without leaves, stem or roots. Book in advance and make sure to check the availability of Rafflesia Flower. There is Parit waterfall and Robinson waterfall to enjoy swim in fresh water of the spring. Cameron Highlands has most beautiful Golf Course surrounded by tea plantations. I guess I have offered you enough information and created enthusiam to plan a holiday to this exotic highland, give it a thought, maybe visit Cameron Highland a land with natural beauty and let nature heal you, refresh you, help you to fall in love(with yourself), rejuvenate you and heaps more!!!

 

Visit Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

No comments »

Posted in Asia, GoHoto, Nature & Environment, Tour & Travel

Tags:

Ipoh: Limestone Wonder

February 24th, 2011

Hidden pearl of Malaysia

Ipoh is a historical city blessed with wonderful limestone marvels, tempting cuisine and relaxing and quiet atmosphere to give you a refreshing and rejuvenating holiday. Though it is still making its name as a tourist spot. But, still Ipoh holds a special significance on the map of Malaysia as The capital city of the Perak state in Malaysia, Ipoh is better known as a Limestone Wonder and houses some of the interesting sights and places of tourist interest.

Famous temples in Ipoh

In the charming city of Ipoh, the first thing which draws your attention is the wonderful limestone caves dating back to millions of years ago. Gua Tempurung is one of the famous caves which is stretched over an area of 1.3 km and is the largest natural limestone cave in Malaysia. It contains five huge domes made up of stalactites and stalagmites having different temperature, water percentage and limestone content in them. Other famous cave is Puncak Cave which is the biggest and longest cave found in the Mount Lanno. With a length of 1.58 km and height of 80 m this is an exciting place to be explored by the adventure seekers in Perak. Apart from these limestone caves, Ipoh is also famous for its magnificent cave temples. Kek Lok Tong is the most recent cave temple in Ipoh which is set in a spectacular cave behind Gunung Rapat. Also known as the Cave of Great Happiness, this cave temple was opened to public in the year 1970 and is remarkable for its incredible art work and beautiful Buddha statues. From here, you can go to the biggest cave temple of Malaysia known as Sam Poh Tong Temple. Dating back to 1950, the temple presents an overwhelming sight with its impressive art work and a Japanese pond with tortoise and carps. Tastefully carved statues of Buddha interspersed in stalactites and stalagmites are great pieces of attraction for the visitors in the cave. Set amidst the limestone cave of Mount Tsik, the Perak Tong Temple is a must visit in Ipoh. It houses more than 40 huge statues of Buddha and exquisite mural paintings decorating the walls.

Ipoh has stunning parks

In addition to magnificent caves and splendid temples, the beautiful city of Ipoh is dotted with some of the stunning green parks which serve as a great place to sit and relax in a calm and tranquil environment. Gunung Lang Park is a picturesque recreational park which provides a soothing retreat to the visitors. You can take a leisure stroll throughout the park and see the panoramic views of limestone hills, manmade waterfalls and crystal shining lakes showering immense beauty of Mother Nature upon you. Japanese Garden, D.R. Seenivasagam Park and Polo Ground are some of the famous gardens in the city to enjoy walking, jogging and just relaxing. Moreover, a newly added amusement attraction in Ipoh is the Lagoon Theme Park which is a water park and a fabulous fun-filled place in Ipoh for kids and adults.

Tin Taj Mahal

Apart from numerous wealth of attraction, Ipoh is also known for its lip-smacking delicious cuisine which is a must taste for anyone visiting Ipoh. There are fine dinning restaurants to road side stalls. Ipoh has people coming from Kuala lumpur, Penang coming to the city for Lunch orFood Haven in Malaysia Dinner. Most of the restaurants are owned by Chinese-Malaysian families, therefore food has bit of Chinese and a bit of Malaysian spices; giving it most amazing taste. Some of the famous dishes of the city are bean sprout chicken, dim sum, Best Salty chicken (you have ever tasted) Ipoh’s white coffee also called Queen of the drinks and Tau fu fah; the traditional Chinese Desert is a must taste too. There is a great variety of seafood tro try too. In nutshell, Ipoh is a diverse city of Malaysia which is emerging as a short vacation destination in Malaysia waiting to be explored. So come, visit this limestone marvel and be a part of this unrevealed city Ipoh.

Visit Ipoh, Malaysia

No comments »

Posted in Asia, GoHoto, Tour & Travel

Tags:

Amazonia or Amazon Jungle

February 21st, 2011

Amazonia one of Nature's Wonder

Amazon, as the name suggests is truly an amazing forest in the Amazon Basin of South America and is renowned as the largest rainforest on the Planet Earth. Few other names for Amazon forest are, Floresta Amazônica or Amazônia, Selva Amazónica or Amazonia; Forêt amazonienne; Amazoneregenwoud, Amazonia or Amazon Jungle. The Amazon River basin is also the world’s largest basin covering the borders of eight countries and overseas territory encompassing a he area of about 1.7 billion acres. The Amazon rainforest was also declared as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature in 2008 and has been a wonderful and surprising adventure destination to be explored in South America. About 60% of Amazon Rainforest is in Brazil, 13% in Peru, and rest 27% is shared in Colombia Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana.

Rain Forest in South AmericaThe Amazon rainforest, also known as Amazonia is world’s largest tropical rainforest and covers more than half the part of Brazil. It is the home to a number of unusual wildlife including about 500 mammals, 300 reptiles, 200 lizards. About one-third of total bird species in the world and over 30 million insect types are also found in the dense forest of Amazon. A great variety of animal species inhabit the large area of amazing Amazon rainforest. Some of the animals found in the canopy of forest are sloths, monkeys, anteaters, jaguar, poison frog, tapir, ocelot, deer, squirrel, raccoon, rodent, snakes like pythons, anacondas, boa constrictors and many more insects and animals. Amazon Forest has more than 173 species of snakes both venomous and no-venomous. It is also a home to the world’s largest rodent known as the capaybara weighing about 91 kg. Apart from it, the forest also inhabits over 1500 exotic species of birds which mainly include migrants such as mascaws, parrot, humming bird, harpy eagle, jacamar, collared aracari, hoatzin, red bill toucan and so on. Besides, theBirds of Amazon Basin world’s rarest bird known as Spix’s mascaw is also found here that is a beautiful blue bird with green belly and yellow eyes. It is estimated that more than 90% of animal species in the Amazonia are the insects which primarily include multi-colored butterfly, grasshoppers, spider, beetle, caterpillar, crab, moth and many more speculating species of insects. The freshwater of Amazon Basin is home to about 3000 species of water animals including Amazonian catfish, tambaqui, angelfish, dolphin, sponges, discus and also the Pirarucu, the largest freshwater fish of the world.

Apart from an amazing wildlife, Amazon rainforests are also known for a diverse plant wealth, vegetation and rich flora and fauna. This largest tropical rainforest is divided into four layers. The first layer is the emergent layer which is constituted with some of the tallest trees which may rise to above 200 feet at some places. The main layer of the forest is the canopy where the trees get large amount of direst sunrays and helps in the rich growth of various colorful flowers and fruits. Next layer is the understory where the plants get very less sunlight and air for their growth and the trees don’t grow more than 12 – Home to the most amazing insects on Earth.15 feet. But this layer is home to the large population of insects. And the lowest layer is the forest floor where there is almost no vegetation due to the lack of sunlight. Thus, the Amazon rainforest is no wonder a must seen destination to be explored through and a great experience of lifetime to be witnessed by adventure lovers. Though, today more than 20% of the Amazonia has been destroyed by the human for their sake but still it is the world’s largest natural resource and an adventurous place to experience the enthralling plant life and wildlife of the planet. Words can’t describe Amazon, so a trip to Amazon Jungle with a experienced guide will be just perfect to take a break from concrete jungle. And I am sure after your trip to Amazonia you will be inspired to save this Nature’s Wonder from getting destroyed. Let’s wake up before it’s too late, let’s leave something original for the coming generations. Don’t get emotional just plan a trip to Amazon and see it feel it and follow your heart!!!!!

Plan a Trip to Amazon from Brazil

Plan Trip to Amazon from Peru

2 comments »

Posted in Nature & Environment, South America, Tour & Travel

Tags:

Masai Mara National Reserve Kenya

February 20th, 2011

Wildlife in Kenya

Nestled in the south west part of Kenya and at the end of Tanzania, Masai Mara National Reserve is well-known for its wildlife. The Masai Mara National Reserve is famous for its spectacular scenery, birds, animals etc especially, in the months of July and August, of the Wildbeast migration across the Mara River. To have a memorable trip to Masai Mara National Reserve July and October are the best months.

The Maasai tribe important part of Masai Mara. Masai Mara National Reserve is marked as the must see place for all those travelers who are looking forward to Safari in Kenya. This amazing place has an enthralling numerous wild species and huge range of birds.

Home of Big Cats

Wildlife Safari in Kenya !! the most enchanting part of your holiday trip to Kenya. Catch a glimpse of big cats in action during your safari in Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. None other than this reserve, you will be able to spot all the five big animals namely, lions, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes and leopards together at times in one single moment. The population of black Rhinos was also remarkable but now, they are near to extinct. The park also gives you a marvelous view of black-maned lions.

Rivers like the Mara and Talek also will not let down your enthusiasm of viewing wildlife as it gives shelter to the water animals like Nile Crocodiles and Hippopotamus.

Birdlife in Masai Mara National Reserve is also admirable and not to be missed one! Travellers are delighted and surprised at number of Mara birds in each and every color and sizes. It will be not wrong to say that this reserve houses about 400 bird species. The main species among the long list of birdlife in Kenya are ostriches, marabous, red-winged Schalow’s turacos, ross turacos, orange buffs and many more…

Hot Air Balloon Rides in Kenya

Best way to see amazing Kenya is to try out some adventurous activities which are informative and rather very enjoyable, then for fulfilling any inquisitiveness, Hot Air Balloon Ride or Hot Air Balloon Safari is waiting!! This ride will also help you to complete your journey by giving you a wonderful quick view over this huge and wide-spreaded Masai Mara National Reserve. It’s quite staggering to see the stunning views of wild animals while soaring over them.

Game Drives in Masai Mara are great source of amusement for the visitors. During Game drive, it is advisable to take a guide with you for your safety and convenience. It reminds you in a way how our ancestors used to hunt for food and then cook their catch on a bonfire and eat it just with hands.

Walking Safaris is also becoming great attraction point in Masai Mara National Reserve. It is very exploratory and spine-tingling as well. If you are game for it try a walk safari but with a experienced guide.

Horseback Safaris, Amazing Bush dinners and many other mind-boggling activities are just waiting for you in Masai Mara National Reserve.

Best part for travelers is the cultural tour gives you a peek in Kenyan Culture or just Culture ofKenyan Tribe the Masai Mara tribe. This is Kenya well known Ethnic Tribe. People of Masai Mara tribe migrated from Nile and were very fierce warriors at  one time. The word Maasai stands for My People. They speak Massai language related to Samburu language. The Masai have tried to maintain theri traditional ways of life, like cattle and goat hreding as means of lively hood. Unlike other tribes Masai Women have strong voice in their tribe. A visit to traditional village can be included in a Safari package. This is the best time to learn about the village their head, families, faith, food, way of life etc. All in all Kenya trip is bound to be full of natural treasures and amazing experiences.

Visit Kenya Travel Pages, Plan your trip

No comments »

Posted in Articles, Cultures & Festivals, Nature & Environment, Tour & Travel

Tags:

Truly Asia

February 17th, 2011

Merdeka Square KL

Kualalumpur, the dazzling capital city of Malaysia is the true reflection of Malaysian culture. The captivating city of Kualalumpur or simply KL is a beautiful Asian holiday destination enthralled with vast range of natural attractions and spectacular historical and architectural wonders which present an interesting truly Asian experience. Also known as the ‘Heart of Malaysia’, Kulalumpur is a multicultural haven.It offers a multitude of interesting places and activities to visit. The city’s huge offerings include Its bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, architectural marvels, abundant natural wealth, sizzling markets and delectable cuisine present a wonderful eclectic blend of historical and cultural diversity of this amazing metropolitan city of Kulalumpur.

An iconic landmark of Kuala Lumpur

Anchoring the City Center of Kualalumpur is the majestic skyscraper building of the Petronas Twin  tower, an iconic landmark of the city. Raised to a height of 1453 feet, it is the world’s tallest freestanding building having 88 storeys and is a masterpiece of country’s marvelous architecture. The two gigantic towers are connected with a Sky Bridge at the height of 192 feet which presents an unforgettable experience, when you visit Petronas Towers. Another such captivating structure in the city is the 421 m high KL tower which is the fifth tallest building of the world. Known as Menara KL, this commanding tower is an astounding example of city’s architectural excellence which offers magnificent views of the entire city. Within the KLCC is the Aquaria where you can experience an exciting journey of the blue ocean with over 5000 exotic marine species and creatures in an undersea adventure. As you take a further 10 mins walk from KLCC, you will find KL Bird Park nestled amidst the tranquil ambience of Lake Gardens. This park is a home to over 3000 bird species and is the largest covered bird park in the world.

Largest Mosque in Malaysia

In the series of city’s religious sites, one of the most frequented places is the Batu Caves. It is a limestone hill with some naturally made caves in it. The major cave here is known as the Cathedral Cave which is said to be an important religious landmark for Hindus as it features various statues and idols of Hindu shrines. Thean Hou Temple is another popular religious attraction in Kualalumpur. It is the oldest temple of Southeast Asia and is worth visiting attraction due to its imposing pillars and exquisite carvings done on the walls. Also pay a visit to Sri Maha Sakthi Mohambigai Amman Temple which is said to be 100 years old. Masjid Negara is also an important religious building of the city which is the largest mosque in the continent.

When it comes to shopping, the bustling city of Kualalumpur is no doubt, a shopper’s paradise. If you want to shop for Chinese goods at throwaway prices, Petaling Street in Chinatown is the bestNature at its best place to find all kinds of goods at the numerous lively stalls which are famous bargain hunter’s haven for the shopaholics. Similarly, Little India is a vibrant and attractive with various shops of traditional Indian goods. Bukit Bintang and Petaling Jaya are the ultimate shopping destinations for the shoppers in the city. Besides, Bukit Nanas Nature Reserve, Jamek Mosque, Sunway Lagoon Park, Butterfly Park, Merdaka Square,  Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Elephant Sanctuary, Desa Waterpark, Crab Island, Titiwangsa Lake etc. are some of the famous tourist attractions in Kualalumpur which should not be missed while on unforgettable vacation to this modern cosmopolitan and exceptionally beautiful city of Malaysia.

Travel Information for Malaysia

No comments »

Posted in Asia, GoHoto, Tour & Travel

Tags:

Lima: The city of Kings

February 14th, 2011

City of Kings

Bestowed with an abundance of natural wealth and archeological and cultural heritage, Lima is a holiday destination of Peru much known for its exotic vistas. Located on the central western coast at the banks of River Rimac, Lima is an important cultural and business hub as well as the capital of Peru. Yet covered with a sheet of misty fog much of the year, Lima offers some of the beautiful sights from December to April when the bright sun peeps out of the clouds and makes the city an enchanting haven of bygone era.

Historic wealth of old mansions, churches, cathedrals, museums and squares, Lima is can be called the ‘city of kings’. It houses a number of impressive historic sites which form an indispensable part for your day tour to Lima. At the city’s main square, Plaza Mayor is the Lima Cathedral. It is a majestic colonial church with having original Spanish mosaics and the impressive tomb of Francis Pizarro. One of the oldest churches in the city is Santo Domingo Church which is worth visiting due to its series of cloisters and courtyards built in harmonious architectural style. The Church of San Francisco is one of the most reputed Spanish colonial churches in Lima renowned for its intricate carvings and magnificent decorations built in Andalusin Moorish style.

Amazing architecture in Lima

One of the most popular sights to be explored during your day tour to Lima is the Plaza de Armas, the major market place and historic heart of the city. Dominating this spacious square is the Government Palace or Palacio de Gobierno housing massive halls and apartments. Other famous historic houses in Lima include Casa Aliaga, Casa de Pilatos and Palacio de Torre Tagle etc. Kids and grown-ups love El Parque de las Leyendas a large zoo containing several species of common animals and also the native Peruvian species. In the historic city of Lima, you will be spoilt of choices for museums. A great number of attractive museums are there in the city waiting to be explored. The Museum of Anthropology and Archaeology is an interesting museum exhibiting an extensive collection of textiles and pottery and artifacts from pre-Colombian culture including the Nazca. At the Plaza Bolivar is the Museo de la Inquisicion and the Museo de la Nacion offering a fascinating sight of the archeological wealth of the country. A museum in the city is the Museo de Oro or Gold Museum housing the stunning gold treasure of ancient Peru is just right to visit and go wild with imagination what if I had all that Gold, hmmmmm??

As you go away from the city square, you will get into the fashionable streets of San Isidro, Miraflores and Barranco where you can shop, dine and have a blasting night at some of the vibrant bars, discos filled with music and romance. When it comes to Peruvian cuisine, try all you can try popular the traditional recipe of Criollo prepared by shellfish and is considered amongst the best seafood in the world.

Lima is a looks very simple or not very attractive but you can’t judge a book by its cover. The treasure it has to offer is mesmerising. I feel when Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro landed and called La Ciudad de los Reyes he had no idea he has just started a new chapter in growth of Peru.

Travel Pages Peru

No comments »

Posted in GoHoto, South America, Tour & Travel

Tags:

Quito or La Mitad del Mundo (the middle of the world)

February 7th, 2011

San Francisco de Quito

Nestled amidst beautiful Andean valley and volcanic peaks, San Francisco de Quito or Quito is a spectacular old historic city located at a height of 2800 m above sea level. Extending over an area of 320 hectares, it is the largest historic centre of South America and the capital city of Ecuador which in Spanish means Equator. In 1978, it was designated as one of the First World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO. Quito’s interesting cultural life, exemplary architecture, magnificent colonial churches, invaluable historic buildings and unique attractions fascinate tourist to visit this Ecuadorian capital city. Quito also holds a position for being second highest administrative capital and highest legal capital in the world. San Francisco de Quito enjoys its location on Equator; there is a museum to mark the general location of equator known as La Mitad del Mundo or the Middle of the World. How awesome is that standing on the middle of the world!!!!

The historic centers of Quito have acquired worldwide recognition because of their architectural excellence and legacy. One of these popular historical places is the San Marcos quarter in the old town of Quito. It is known as a treasure trove for witnessing the wonderful historic buildings ofHistorical Building A profoound palce to visitthe ancient city in the form of churches, mansions and convents etc. In the heart of the old town runs the Street of Seven Crosses which is a marvel to stroll through. It is one of the most fascinating streets of Quito and it is linked with two hills- the Panecillo Hill and the Hill of San Juan which offers wonderful sights to be seen in the city. With over 40 churches and chapels, Quito is truly defined as the ‘Reliquary of the Americas’. The most popular church in the city is the Convent of San Francisco which belongs to the Franciscan community. Its symmetrical façade, gold leaf ceilings, side chapels, majestic entrance and gold carved stained glass windows add to the sheer beauty and spirituality of the place and make this religious monument a great spot to be witnessed by the tourists. La Merced Church and Chapel is also a great building having profound religious and architectural significance. Besides, Monastery of Santa Catalina, Santo Domingo Church and La Compania de Jesus Church are also worth visiting in Quito.

Quito houses a number of interesting museums for the taste and interest of every traveler. You can make a visit to the Museo del Banco Central, a renowned museum in the city. It houses a myriad of artistic and cultural exhibits related to the rich history of Ecuador. Similarly, Casa del Albado Museum, Museum of Colonial Art, Museo de la Ciudad, Tulipe in Situ Museum, exhibit a wonderful collection of city’s arts and artifacts for the knowledge and delight of the citizens and the visitors. But don’t miss to see the new eye-catching museum of watercolor and drawing, the Museo de la Acuarela y Dibujo Munoz Marino. Apart from history Quito also has an active Stratovolcano in Andes mountain range.

Along with sizzling cultural and historic attractions, the beautiful city of Quito is dotted with many colorful parks and gardens offering a delightful escape for the tourists from the hustle andA beautiful Nature haven to relax. A breath-taking but scary scene.bustle of city life. The Botanical Garden, Parque de la Alameda, Parque la Carolina and Parque Matropolitana are some of the famous gardens in the city to be explored with your kids and family. Apart from enjoying a day out at city’s wonderful attractions, Quito is also a great place for shopping. It has several shops and market places brimming with a varied range of wares, handicrafts, sculptures, textiles, antiques and so on. The colorful city also houses number of sizzling bars and clubs to experience a vibrant nightlife filled with dance, dine and wine. Thus, the historic centre of Quito is a maze of colonial and architectural wonders waiting to be discovered again and again. Defined as the ‘Jewel in Ecuador’s Crown, Quito is undoubtedly a stunning holiday destination in South America, its location, monuments, history, people … its all so inviting!!

Travel Pages Ecuador

1 comment »

Posted in GoHoto, South America, Tour & Travel

Tags:

Cartagena de Indias

February 5th, 2011

Extravagant city of sheer beauty

Cartagena de Indias or simply Cartagena is emerging as one of the hot tourist destinations located on the northern coast of Colombia in South America. Better known as an extravagant city of sheer beauty and romance, Cartagena is endowed with an endless wealth of natural attractions, historical sites, colorful tradition, lively nightlife and numerous places that can be hard to escape. Renowned as the fifth largest urban city in Colombia, Cartagena beckons a lot of mystified tourists to experience the charm of its colonial streets and old walled city of Ciudad Amarullada which is designated as a World Heritage Site.

To begin your exploration in the old city, visit Casa de Marques Valdehoyos at Calle Factoria. It houses ample information and guided tour map of old Cartagena. Outside the walls of Las Bovedas is Casa de Rafael Nunez, the home of the former President of Colombia who was a lawyer and a poet and wrote the national anthem of Colombia. It is now turned into a museum housing Nunez’s personal accessories and other documents. Museo del Oro y Arqueologia or Gold Museum is anFamous Church in Cartagena interesting museum that displays a glittering collection of gold and silver pottery of the Sinu culture. A must visit in the city is the Castilla de San Felipe de Barajas, the largest and greatest fortress ever built by the Spaniards to protect the city. The complex tunnel system is a thing to be appreciated which was built to facilitate supply and evacuation in the castle. Close to it is the La Popa Hill which offers spectacular views over the city and the harbor area from the height of 150 m.

Few of the best beaches of ColombiaApart from it, the major attraction of Cartagena is its historic old walled city housing some of the very interesting historic districts of EI Centro, San Diego and Getsemani. The entrance to the city is through the Clock Tower Building and is surrounded by Las Murallas. The entire walled city is a real gem of Cartagena reflecting the superb colonial architecture including beautiful churches, monasteries, huge palaces and mansions.

Cartagena is also a popular religious city where you can visit some famous religious and spiritual places. The most important church is Cartagena’s Cathedral which is worth visiting due to its Splendid Natural Beauty of Cartagena limestone exterior and exquisitely decorated interior and archways. Other famous churches are Iglesia de San Pedro Claverand Iglesia de Santo Domingo etc. The wonderful city of Cartagena is also blessed with many splendid natural attractions such as pristine beaches, mangroves, waterways and sea ports. Playa Blanca is a great place to enjoy your day out near silvery beaches basking in the hot sun. If you wish to stay there for a night or two, you can rent a hammock and can spend a few days in the lap of nature. Beides, other places of interest are the Bay of Cholon, Islas del Rosario, Chiva Bus, Santa Marta, Parque Nacional Tayrona and list is endless so is the natural beauty.

Thus, Cartagena is Colombia’s unique and most visited tourist destination filled with maze of  cobble dalleys, balconies, fashionable streets, nature and history. It is undoubtedly a not to be missed spot of South America which has been constantly attracting flock of tourists from all the parts of the world.

Travel Pages Italy

No comments »

Posted in GoHoto, South America, Tour & Travel

Tags:

Sao Paulo- World’s Richest City

February 3rd, 2011

A major commercial and financial hub of Brazil

With over 20 million inhabitants, Sao Paulo is recognized as third largest city of the world and the largest metropolitan in South America. It is also a major commercial and financial hub of Brazil which attracts a crowd of tourists every year from all the corners of the globe. Along with its strong influence in the fields of finance and trade, it also offers multitude of other interesting attractions and a vibrant night life which make Sao Paulo one of the best cities of Brazil. The city’s most important financial center is Avenida Paulista which is well known for its fantastic skyscrapers and extensive shopping areas. While you are at this place, don’t miss the opportunity to stop by Museum of art of Sao Paulo (MASP) and Casa da Rosas housing a good collection of Brazilian Arts and beautiful roses respectively. In addition to it, also pay a visit to the Museo de Arte Sacra and Jardim da Luz constituting the best collection of South America’s colonial arts and artifacts and are great centers of tranquility.

The cosmopolitan ultra modern city of Sao Paulo presents and overwhelming example of superb architecture which can be clearly seen in a wide array of fine buildings and skyscrapers. Some ofSao Paulo Architectural wonders the most popular architectural hot spots in the city are Edificio BANESPA, Centro da Cultura Judaica, Edificio Copan, Oca and Pavilhao da Brenal etc. Other activities in the city include the Mosteiro de Sao Paulo, a unique Norman- Byzantine church in the city and the famous Ibirapuera Park occupying more than 2 million square meters of green grass area. This huge park houses several sightseeing laces for tourist’s interest such as the Grand Marquise, Palácio da Agricultura, planetarium, gymnasium, pavilion etc. and is a favored spot for jogging, walking and leisure. Sao Paulo also offers various amusing attractions for children and families. You can take your kids to the Zoologico which is a home to over 3,000 animal species and other friendly creatures. Another fun-filled place is the Sau Paulo Play centre with number of exciting rides and games. Also try to watch a soccer match between some of the local clubs in the city, very entertaining! Sao Paulo is also crowned as one of the richest cities in the world and hence offers a fantabulous shopping experience at its exclusive shopping malls and dazzling fashion boutiques. Now, after a thrilling whole day out, it’s time to shake your legs and enjoy the pulsating Brazilian night life at Sao Paulo’s hottest clubs and bars. As the night falls, the city starts to reawaken and the streets get jam-packed from the people heading out to for a hot and sizzling night life especially at Rua 13 and Jardins. Thus, Sao Paulo is a diverse cosmopolitan city full of wonderful sights and sounds. With an interesting blend of cultural and commercial diversity, the city houses a widespread of attractions catering to the needs of each and every visitor coming to this wonderful land of Sao Paulo.

Travel Pages Brazil

Stunning View s of Sao Paulo

No comments »

Posted in GoHoto, LIfestyle, South America, Tour & Travel

Tags:

Rss Feed Tweeter button Facebook button Technorati button Reddit button Myspace button Linkedin button Webonews button Delicious button Digg button Flickr button Stumbleupon button Newsvine button Youtube button