Traveling Coast » vacation

Spectacular Summer Beach Holiday Sports

sys — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 10:43:44 +0000

Of course a summer break could include all kinds of other locations, such as a visit to famous city, some high altitude walking in the mountains or time spent in one of the famous Lakeland areas of the world such as the Italian Lakes like Garda or Como, the Canadian great lakes or the Swedish Fjords. But more often than not there is likely to be some type of beach involved in most people’s summer vacation. The Spanish Canary Islands are a small group of islands that have their own variety of beaches that provide holidaymakers with plenty of choice, whatever their preferences.

So what is it about a beach that attracts so many people? After all warm sunny weather can be experience in most locations, and swimming opportunities are found in many inland areas, either in lakes or rivers. Beaches have several unique characteristics that perhaps contribute to their allure. First there is the sand itself. The soft sand is comfortable to lie on, feels nice to walk on and of course provides a great play environment for small children. But sandy beaches are not the only popular ones, with shingle and rocky beaches also proving attractive. The views offered by coastal locations are also a factor. There is something pleasing about an outlook where the land has ended and the sea stretches off into infinity. Imaginations run riot about what may be over the horizon, and the hustle and bustle of the world inland can be left behind. Of the course the sea itself plays a part. Unlike lakes, the sea is altogether a more dramatic and powerful beast. Gentle swells or crashing waves make the sea and ever changing environment and one that can either be just looked at or made use of as part of other pastimes. Fishing, swimming, surfing, sailing, diving, kayaking and windsurfing are just some of the sports and hobbies that make use of the sea. One other aspect is of course wildlife. Either in the water, above it or along its shores the sea supports a myriad of life forms that vary across the world. Beaches can be a naturists heaven at all times of the year.

For those seeking a place to lie in the sun there are beaches all over the world that easily fulfil that requirements. From the beaches of the Spanish Costa Blanca to Australia’s Gold Coast, long sandy beaches are everywhere it seems. For the ultimate in sandy beach tranquillity one of the 1000’s of Maldives islands may be the ideal. Tiny islands, some with room for just one dwelling and surrounded entirely by white soft sand, these are perhaps the sand lovers dream. On the island of Fuerteventura are perhaps some of the Canaries’ best sandy beaches. In the north of the island is the biggest beach, stretching for several kilometres south from Corralejo. The waters here, looking across to the nature reserve on the Isla of Lobos, can be a turquoise blue and soft sand reaches inland across dunes for over 2 kilometers. They present almost a desert scene looking inland towards the hills of extinct volcanoes like Volcan de la Olive.

Sports also have their favourite beach locations. From the surfing beaches of Hawaii like the North Shore, Oahu, the home of surfing, where huge waves provide the ultimate thrills for surfers during the winter. Waimea Beach is another spot where massive waves frighten the life out of all but the bravest surfers. In the Canaries surfing is also a popular beach activity, although the waves don’t compare with the size of those in Hawaii. It is however one of Europe’s favourite surf locations with Sotavento in the south of Fuerteventura and Playa de Famara on Tenerife both popular places.

As far as landscape and scenery are concern there are many spectacular beaches around the world, some of which are hardly visited due to their remoteness. Africa has some amazing places, like the beaches of the Tanzanian island of Zanzibar. Paje beach on the east coast is a seeming endless stretch of white sand, fringed by palm trees, with an outlook across the Indian Ocean. In the UK there may not be the vast expanses of beach areas enjoyed by some larger countries but there are some equally spectacular spots. Kynance Cove in Cornwall is one example of a small dramatic beach reached by a steep footpath and Three Cliffs beach on the Gower Peninsula in Wales is regarded by some as one of the most beautiful beaches in the UK.

On the North West coast of Gran Canaria, beaches are few and far between as steep jagged cliff sides plunge into the Atlantic Ocean, but these places have their own beauty too. Driving north along the coast road towards the town of Agaete, the traveler is presented with some breathtaking views.

Finally let’s not forget the children, those for whom the beach presents the perfect play ground. Praia de Rocha close to the town of Portimao on the Portuguese Algarve is a favourite family holiday spot. Along Spain’s Coast del Sol are many golden sandy best favoured by European tourists. Two such examples are at Villajoyosa where the El Paradis beach has almost a mile of golden sand to enjoy and further south near Alicante the Playa Muchavista and the Playa de San Juan form a sweeping arc of almost 4 miles of wonderful sandy beach.

In the Canaries the south of Gran Canaria has perhaps some of the best children’s beaches. The vast sand dunes of Maspalomas and the long sandy beach of Playa del Ingles are both ideal places for children to play the days away in the sun, sand and surf.

Vacation In the Canary Islands

sys — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 10:37:20 +0000

They may be better known as beach holiday destinations, but there are plenty of excellent opportunities for walking in the Canary Islands. With their beautiful volcanic landscapes, scenic mountains, and diverse natural wildlife, you can experience some truly spectacular routes on your Canary Islands walking holiday.

Each of the individual islands has something different to offer – here’s an overview of what to expect on each of the five islands…

Tenerife

Famed for its black beaches, Tenerife’s volcanic landscape is a walker’s paradise that sees relatively few visitors – ideal for those who like their peace and quiet whilst hiking! The scenery ranges from dramatic ravines to thick forests and rocky coastal paths, with the Adeje and Anaga Mountains providing some of the best walking country on the island. The centrepiece of any walking holiday in Tenerife will likely be Mount Teide – at 3,718m in height, the volcano is the highest mountain in Spain. Whether you manage to get to the top of it or simply walk in its shadow, it is an unforgettable and awe inspiring sight.

La Gomera

If you are interested in a Canary Islands walking holiday, La Gomera is likely to be the first place you will consider visiting – it is famed as having the best walking routes of all the islands. The verdant valleys are the main highlight of La Gomera, and as you are walking, listen and see if you can hear Silbo Gomera – the strange whistling language, unique to the island, which was devised by the natives to communicate in the valleys (before mobile phones of course)!

Gran Canaria

The appeal of walking in Gran Canaria, known as the miniature continent, is the sheer diversity of its landscape. The island is home to numerous micro climates, which mean that you can be walking in an alpine meadow in the morning and then a sub tropical valley in the afternoon! The central Cumbre mountain range provides most of the best walking on the island.

Lanzarote

The striking volcanic scenery on Lanzarote can be truly out “of this world”, and Timanfaya National Park is the best place to see the lava fields, salt marshes and volcanic cones that dominate the surreal landscape. The coast of Lanzarote also provides some wonderful walking opportunities, with the northern coastline being more rocky and rugged and the south coast offering sandy beaches and gentle hills. Some of the best walking routes give you the best of both worlds, beginning up in the mountains and ending on the coast for a welcome rest.

La Palma

Famous for its pine forests, charming villages, and dramatic volcanic ranges, this island presents plenty of opportunities for great walking. The must see sight on this island is The Caldera de Taburiente National Park. With the colossal crater-like mountain arch Caldera de Taburiente stretching 10km across, the park is rife with excellent walking routes through stunning scenery.

Whether you want to explore volcanic craters, lush mountain valleys, or striking coastal walks, you are sure to find the experience you are after on a Canary Islands walking holiday!

Honeymoon Resort in Rarotonga

sys — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 10:34:39 +0000

There are lots of destinations in the South Pacific that have properties which advertise romance, ambience, atmosphere and the term hideaway, which would indicate that they would be ideal for a special occasion. However, on reaching their destination and having assumed that the description was correct, many couples are utterly disappointed at what they find. Especially when looking for the fulfillment of the terms used above, only to see in their accommodation choice, that there is a half used candle sitting in the middle of the table, and a rocky beachfront which is not ideal for an evening stroll, no sunsets to sit and watch, or sunrises to see coming up. This leaves them feeling completely shortchanged by their “romantic” honeymoon resort.

Some of the most beautiful places to stay in the South Pacific are located in Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. Rarotonga has many truly romantic properties, but it is important that research is done correctly. This means delving into the internet and using appropriate keywords to find the right destination. The terms, romance, Rarotonga, Cook Islands, luxury, accommodation, exclusive, villa and private, are all good terms to search under.

When you find a range of choices in the destination area you are searching under, then it pays to look further into each property and see just what is offered to ensure peace of mind in that it lives up to what it says and if it is in fact a romantic honeymoon resort. There are many ways to test this, by firstly asking what inclusions are provided in the rates that only apply to honeymooners and then asking if the property offers things like :
- Champagne or bubbly on arrival
- Honeymoon cakes
- Massages for two
- Added bonus tour inclusions
- Sunset on the beach dinner hamper for two
- Candlelit villa or room on arrival complete with petals or chocolates on the bed at night
Things such as this will indicate that special thought has been given to what is really a very special occasion.

Many properties also have “honeymoon packages
” which are tailored to suit these special occasions. These can include the couples massages, or any of the other added bonus inclusions mentioned above and do represent a good choice for a romantic honeymoon resort Rarotonga. Often because these inclusions are absorbed into the rates of the property, they do represent great buying and an opportunity to enjoy this special holiday at a very substantially discounted rate.

It has become very popular now to advertise locations and destinations for special occasion holidays. More and more resorts, boutique villa properties and accommodation places in general are getting into the special occasion holiday setting and giving more and more thought to value added inclusions in their rates. Especially is this the case in the South Pacific including Rarotonga where the name alone conjours up the feeling of romance – tropical palms swaying in the breeze, beautiful sunsets at night and stunning sunrises to enjoy together etc.

Hopefully the above points are helpful in the decisions that are made when choosing a romantic honeymoon resort or boutique luxury villa accommodation property in Rarotonga Cook Islands.

Holiday In Alaska Fishing Lodges

sys — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 10:30:26 +0000

Finding Alaska fishing lodges can be a challenge. There are so many options available, from the variety of accommodations, the list of amenities, transportation issues, packages offered, the type of fishing offered, guided or unguided trips, and even the atmosphere of the lodge. A combination of all these aspects will aid in choosing the perfect setting for a personal trip or family vacation to Alaska.

Lodging- The variety of accommodations available can be huge determining factors. It depends on if the desire is to get away to a secluded cabin or mingle with large groups in a lodge. There are quite a few fishing lodges that are multi-level, each floor being similar to a hotel setting. People will have individual rooms, but dining and socializing takes place in a common area. Individual cabins are available at many locations, for those wanting to be more secluded. A houseboat is even an option for some resorts located on or near the water.

Transportation- The availability of transportation to and from airport can be a huge plus. This amenity is offered by most fishing lodges, due to they are generally in remote locations. Transportation is usually scheduled in advance. The lodge will receive the travel information and meet parties at the airport. At times, there are scheduled pick-ups and drop-offs, so everyone rides on the same shuttle.

Extras- The variety of amenities is something to take into consideration, especially if there is a diverse group going. Just because it is a fishing lodge, doesn’t mean they only offer fishing. Some lodges also include kayaking, rafting, hunting, or even bear viewing. Fishing lodges may offer all or only one of these added amenities. If fishing is the only thing offered, they might also offer assisting in getting the proper licenses and stamps. They might also help in cleaning, packaging, freezing, and boxing fish for the ride home.

Type of Fishing- Lodges will usually offer both fly and spin cast fishing. This will also be dependent upon location. The rivers enable fishing for Alaska salmon, sockeye salmon, silver salmon, chum salmon, rainbow trout; king salmon, halibut, lingcod, and yelloweye rockfish. Whereas spin cast fishing may be available for Alaska or king salmon.

Deep water fishing can include Alaska and king salmon as well. Many lodges know it is difficult to carry a lot of fishing equipment when traveling, so they will rent out equipment for the type of fishing they offer. Guides and transportation are generally provided for these trips as well.

Eating- Having meals provided take the chore out of finding a place to eat for each meal. Many lodges have their own restaurant or offer buffet-style dining. The price of meals may also be included in accommodation pricing.

Whether it’s a cabin on an island or a lodge with multiple levels, Alaska fishing lodges can be found with just about any type of package desired.

Borobudur Temple in Indonesia

sys — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 07:58:32 +0000

Who does not know Candi Borobudur? This Buddhist temple has 1460 relief panels and 504 Buddha effigies in the complex. Millions of people longing to visit the buildings included in this World Wonder Heritages. Not surprisingly, since architecturally and functionally, as a place of worship, Borobudur is attractive.

Borobudur was built by King Samaratungga, one of the kings of Old Mataram Kingdom, Sailendra descendants. Based on Kayumwungan inscription, an Indonesian named Hudaya Kandahjaya revealed that Borobudur is a place of worship which was completed May 26 824, nearly a hundred years since the early days was built. The name of Borobudur itself according to some people means a mountain having terraces (budhara), while the other says that Borobudur means monastery on the high places.

Borobudur-shaped building terrace consists of 10 levels. Height 42 meters before being renovated and 34.5 meters after the renovation because the lowest level was used as a drag. Six lowest level and square in the upper three floors and a circular highest level of Buddhist stupa facing to the west. Each level represents the stage of human life. In accordance with of Buddha Mahayana, anyone who wants to reach the level of Buddha must go through each of those life stages.

The base of Borobudur, called Kamadhatu, symbolizing human beings that are still bound by lust. Four levels mentioned above represents Rupadhatu humans who have set themselves free from lust but still tied to appearance and shape. At these levels, a statue of Buddha placed in open space. Meanwhile, three levels above where the Buddhist stupa placed in the holes is called Arupadhatu, symbolizing human beings that have been freed from lust, appearance, and shape. The top part is called Arupa symbolizes nirvana, where Buddha is residing.

Each terrace has beautiful relief panels showing how skillful. Relief that will be read by coherently when you walk in a clockwise direction (toward the left of the entrance of the temple). The relief panels tell the legendary story of Ramayana. In addition, there are relief panels describing the condition of society at that time. For example, relief of farmers’ activity reflecting the advance of agriculture system and relief of sailing boat representing the advance of the time the cruise was centered in Bergotta (Semarang).

All relief panels in Borobudur temple reflect the teachings of the Buddha. Hence, this temple functions as educating the media for people who want to learn Buddhism. YogYES invites you to walk through each narrow passage in Borobudur in order to understand the philosophy of Buddhism. Atisha, a Buddhist from India in the 10th century, had visited the temple that was built 3 centuries before Angkor Wat in Cambodia and 4 centuries before the Grand Cathedrals in Europe.

Thanks to visiting Borobudur and having Buddhist manuscripts from Serlingpa (King of Sriwijaya), Atisha was able to develop Buddhism. He became head of Vikramasila monastery and taught Tibetans of practicing Dharma. Six scripts from any Serlingpa reduced to a core doctrine called “The Lamp for the Path to Enlightenment” or better known by the name Bodhipathapradipa.

One of the questions are as yet unresolved about Borobudur is how the condition around the temple was built and why the temple was found in a buried state. Some say Borobudur initially stood surrounded by a swamp and buried because of the eruption of Merapi. Essentially Calcutta inscription reads ‘Amawa’ means sea of milk. The word is then interpreted as Merapi lava. Some other says that Borobudur buried in the cold lava of Merapi.

With all the grandeur and mystery that is, only natural that many people from all enter the world penjru Borobudur as a place to visit in his life. Besides enjoying the temple, you can walk around to the villages around Borobudur, such as Karanganyar and Wanurejo to see people making craft activity. You also can go to the top watu Kendil to view the panorama from the top of Borobudur. Wait what? No need to worry earthquake May 27, 2006, because of Borobudur is not affected at all.

Play Ski In Holidays

sys — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 04:43:13 +0000

Tired of getting you suntan lotion mixed up with sand, as you lie baking on a beach? Bored of sizzling in the summer sun, while pretending to have to fun? Does the idea of a British holiday, turn you cold? With destinations such as Germany, Andorra, Austria, France and Italy, an adrenaline pumping adventure is just a cheap flight away. Fresh Ski Holidays are ideal for experienced skiers, beginners or families on a budget. Why not take a fresh approach to holidays?

Rising costs of fuel means fewer and fewer families and professionals are taking to the slopes this season. Winter ski resorts bracing themselves for a tough ski season, and it is estimated that resort and ski bookings are down 15 percent from last year. But with Fresh ski holidays and so many cheap flights to Europe and beyond, there is nothing to prevent you from skiing this summer. Summer skiing will mean you will miss the rush of the Christmas season and enjoy the peaceful serenity of the clear and crisp mountain slopes.

Low to mid-season is the best time to bag a cheap ski holiday, and for those able to go on holiday with short notice, last minute ski holidays are sold at greatly reduced cost. However it is always wise to check conditions before you go as snow fall can unreliable. Once you have selected your budget ski break, one of the delights of a traditional holiday of skiing, is “Après-Ski”. This is of course, where you can share your stories of derring-do over a glass or two of wine with families and friends! For most skiers it’s almost as important as the skiing itself, so don’t forget to visit your resort’s bars and restaurants.

What destinations should you consider for your cheap ski break? Andorra has always been a favourite budget ski holiday destination. Set in the heart of the Pyrenees, Andorra is famous for its shopping, making it an ideal destination for those keen to sample the Après-Ski nightlife and duty-free in Soldeu. With beginner to intermediate slopes, Andorra is particularly popular amongst young snowboarders. Soldeu is renowned for its reliable snow forecast and numerous snow canyons, and has over 82kms of off-piste skiing.

Or maybe you would prefer Austria? Austria has an excellent choice of ski slopes and is very popular amongst English skiers. Finkenberg offers great value for money and there are many glaciers that offer skiers an extended ski season. Home to St Anton and Kitbuhel, two of the most famous ski destinations in the world, both have an international reputation and amazing atmosphere. Hintertux in Austria has incredible ski facilities throughout the year. At 2660m altitude, the Hintertux Glacier offers numerous pistes that can be quite challenging for glacier skiers.

Sunshine Coast Kite Festival

sys — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 04:34:49 +0000

As you no doubt already know, the sun is already out in time for the Queensland Spring Vacation, and the truth is; there is simply no better place to spend the school holidays than the Sunshine Coast.Not only are there plenty of things to do and many places to see, but there is also ample Sunshine Coast accommodation available. However, with the famous Coolum Kite Festival scheduled to take place on the 3rd and 4th of October, visitors should make sure they book their Sunshine Coast accommodation well in advance in order to avoid disappointment.

Essentially, the Coolum Kite Festival showcases some of the most magnificent and most unusual kites you could ever imagine, and of course this year won’t be any different, in that there is just so much happening during the festival weekend. Also, this year will see some of Australia’s top kite surfers competing with each other for a position on the podium. Whatever you do; make sure you find your spot on the beach to witness this spectacular event.

If you’ve ever been under the impression that kites are small toys which young kids play with, you’re sadly mistaken. Instead, you’ll get to see small kites, giant kites, weird kites and funny kites. In fact, you’ll see some which are quite literally a marvel in their own rights. Of course, over and above the kite festival, there is also so much else happening on the 3rd and 4th of October, which is why you should make a point of visiting the Sunshine Coast at this time. The great thing is that the kite festival is a perfect event which the whole family can enjoy. Let’s face it; who wouldn’t want to relax on the beach to watch the kite surfing competition in full swing. If kite surfing doesn’t quite rock your boat, you could of course choose to chill out and listen to some great talented musicians instead.

Even though the kites will dominate the air for some period of time, that’s not all you’ll see in the heavens above. Instead, you should also make sure that you’re there to see the Ramblers Skydivers in action. This crazy bunch of daredevils will perform a number of death defying stunts and displays during the course of the weekend. In fact, if you think you have what it takes, you can even book a tandem skydive with one of the Ramblers. Who could blame you if you feel you’ve had an amazing day, but be warned, because the night event is just as thrilling. In fact the night event is more often than not the most intense event of the weekend, and if rumors are anything to go by, this year’s event will be like nothing before. All things considered, you need to book your Sunshine Coast accommodation now or else you may end up missing out.

If you’d rather not take part in a tandem sky dive, but instead, you’d like to try your hand at flying a kite, then you should consider booking a place for you and your family at the kite making workshop which is at the Kenilworth Community College on the 27th of September. For a fee of just $6, you can have an opportunity to build your very own kite which of course you can end up flying yourself. If you’d rather not build a kite, you can simply stand back and watch Tony rice, a master kite builder, at work.

It’s not without reason that the Sunshine Coast has become so immensely popular between people looking for an ideal Spring vacation. Considering you’ll be in the heart of a world famous kite festival, kite surfing championships, and even a spectacular skydiving event, there are not many other places apart from the Sunshine Coast which you need to be considering. The sun is shining, the ocean is shimmering, and some of the very best Sunshine Coast accommodation is awaiting you.

vacation in gulmag

sys — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:36:50 +0000

Gulmarg meaning meadows of flower is the major holiday
spot in India. During spring seasons, the valley of Gulmarg is covered with countless flowers of umpteen varieties. Perching on an altitude of 2730 meters, Gulmarg is surrounded with mountains draped in silvery snow. The valley is known for its highest golf courses in the world. Gulmarg remains a popular haunt for people looking for adventure activities like skiing, gliding, heli skiing, trekking and camping.

On a clear day, you can be lucky to experience the spectacular view of glorious Nanga Parbat. Enjoy the thrilling Gandola Lift (cable car ride) in Gulmarg that passes through the dense pine forest offering you the impressive views of lush green Valley and snow draped mountain peaks.

Places of Interest

Khilanmarg

Khilanmarg is a petite valley that blooms in the lap of Gulmarg. Khilanmarg’s lush green meadow, carpeted with vibrant wild flowers serves host to the Gulmarg’s winter ski runs and offers spectacular views of the snow covered Himalayan ranges and the beautiful Kashmir valley.

Alpather Lake

Enveloped with tall pine and oak trees, Alpather Lake rests at the foot of the steep Apharwat peaks. This beautiful milky lake remains frozen until mid June. For adventure freaks, Alpather Lake offers a several hard and steep treks. Take a pony ride to reach the sparkling Alpather Lake.

The Ningli Nallah

Nigli Nallah, located eight kilometers from Gulmarg is the charming mountain stream that originates from the melting snow and ice of Apharwat Peaks and Alpather Lake. This milky stream descends in to the valley and finally merges with the Jhelum River in Sopore. The scenic verdant valley along the stream is a popular picnic spot of Gulmarg.

Golf Course

Situated at an elevation of 2650 meters, Gulmarg boasts of the highest 18 hole green golf course in the world. Britishers who used to visit Gulmarg to escape the heat of the cities started the Gulmarg Golf Club in the year1911.

Hotels in Gulmarg

From completely furnished cottages to cheap hotels
, there is no shortage of accommodation in Gulmarg that suit to every budget traveler. Gulmarg is dotted with innumerable resorts and cottages that offer

Best Time to Visit: May to September, November to February

How to Reach Gulmarg

By Air: The nearest airport from Gulmarg is at Srinagar (56 kms), which is connected with all major cities of India. Several Airlines like Spice jet, Kingfisher airlines, Jet Airways konnect and Jet Lite operate regular flights to Srinagar from Delhi.

The Secret Knowledge of Ed Leedskalnin

sys — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 12:07:29 +0000

Near homestead, Florida, just south of Miami, a secret has been lost for over 50 years. This secret has to do with a structure of coral that no modern architect can explain. It is the Coral Castle created by Edward Leedskalnin.

Many have thought that his secret died with him, and that his knowledge of how to move megalithic stones was lost forever.

When you visit this tourist attraction, you might think that its creator Ed left a message behind for all to see encoded in the symbolism, mathematics, geometry, and astronomical alignments of the Coral Castle itself.

Ed said he knew the secrets of the builders of the pyramids, a secret that has been lost for thousands of years.

As the historic novel by Charles Dickens “A Tale of Two Cities”says, “it was the best of times; it was the worst of times”. This phrase, possibly one of the most famous lines in all of English literature, is a good summary of the life of Ed Leedskalnin.

From the low of being jilted at the altar by his “Sweet Sixteen”, to the high of creating one of the most amazing stone structures in the world, Ed’s life has always been associated with two things:

1 – The Coral Castle that he built.

2 – The secrets that have died with him.

Many people that have visited this oolite masterpiece over the decades have presented theories on how this structure was made. To be able to move and manipulate 1100 tons of coral, using of primitive tools, is quite a secret indeed.

Perhaps, if you visit this modern marvel in southern Florida, you will be the one that discovers the secret knowledge of the ancients, the same secret that Ed Leedskalnin knew just 70 years ago.

Guide To Hanoi In Vietnam

sys — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 14:39:11 +0000

Vietnam is fortunate to have plenty of rich culture, historical monuments, diverse natural scenery, sandy beaches, green rice-paddy fields, mighty mountain peaks and lush forests. Vietnam has an incredible unspoilt natural beauty and is so rich in natural scenery and features many beautiful destinations. Vietnam is in the very heart of the south east of the Indochina Peninsula. Border countries include China in the north, Laos on the northwest border and Cambodia on the southwest border. Located to the east of Vietnam is the vast South China Sea. An adventure holiday in Vietnam is sure to please travelers from across the world.

You simply must visit historic Hanoi when you are in Vietnam. Hanoi is the capital city and is brimming with rich history and culture. Hanoi is the cultural centre of Vietnam with plenty of old and historic charm. In fact, did you know that there are more than 600 pagodas and temples throughout around Hanoi as well as plenty of French colonial buildings, which you can see on many streets. Your Vietnam tours are highly recommended to include some or all of the following sites and locations so you can get the most from your precious trip:

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is set in a building right in the center of Hanoi city itself and on display within the mausoleum is the preserved body of Uncle Ho – Ho Chi Minh – whose body is embalmed and is presented to visitors. Ho Chi Minh does look very peaceful indeed and looks almost as if asleep. .

One-Pillar Pagoda – The ancient one pillar pagoda was constructed in 1049 and is a very well respected pagoda amongst both the Buddhist visitors and also worldwide travelers and also makes an intriguing cultural site to visit on your tour to the country.

Old Quarter – Explore the unspoilt side to Asia that you have only ever had dreams about by discovering the amazing bustling back streets and lanes of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

Ambassadors Pagoda – If you seek culture whilst in Vietnam then do consider a visit to the Ambassadors Pagoda which is also used as the headquarters for the Vietnam Buddhist Association. Quan Su, as it is also known is one of Hanoi’s busiest houses of prayer. The center is most popular on the first and fifteenth days of each lunar month, when Buddhists flock to the ancient pagoda to make an offering. On your way in to the pagoda you can buy some fragrant incense sticks from a pavement incense seller and then light the sticks and leave them. You could then be blessed with incredible good luck!