Travel To Menorca

Welcome to Menorca, the island of the sea breeze.

Smaller and quieter than its neighboring Mallorca, Menorca is the second largest island in the Balearic archipelago. At just 34 km from Mallorca, Menorca has many tourist areas, hotels and almost as many beaches as Mallorca and Ibiza combined.

The south of Menorca is full of quiet resorts, perfect for family holidays, while on the steep shores of the north are the quiet fishing villages. There are a number of tourism offices in Menorca, spread over several villages and towns of the island, where you can find all necessary information about tourist attractions in the area, the main beaches in Menorca, museums and festivals local, the best places for sightseeing, as well as other practical information to manage on Menorca.

Attractions

There are so many interesting things to do in Menorca sure everyone can find something to see or do. Menorca offers visitors a wide range of places and interesting activities. So whether you're looking for thrills, or prefer to soak in the history of Menorca and discover their cultural heritage, Menorca will captivate you.

Menorca Ports

The impressive port of Mahon has many points of interest in which is well worth spending a few rolls of film or, more modern version, a few memory cards. Locals are advised to take snapshots from the sea to capture the best views. From Menorca ports can also be seen fishing boats Balearic Islands, with traditional Arabic design, and other typical aspects of the culture of the island. The boat trips through the port are very nice and not take more than an hour.

Tickets are sold near the distillery Xoriguer.

It Freginal Park

Freginal The park is located in the heart of Mahon, the capital of Menorca. In this park there are several areas prepared to sit and relax or have a picnic while enjoying the beautiful flower beds. It is also a meeting point in which many cultural events. Musicians from around the world come to Menorca to play in the park, especially during the Jazz Festival.

Xoriguer Distillery

The distillery Xoriguer is very typical of Menorca. It was built in the eighteenth century and is located at the Moll de Ponent the port. The distillery has imposing copper stills, which are essential for the production of better gin. Visitors can sample and buy different types of liquor at the distillery shop. Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 19:00 and Saturday from 9:00 to 13:00.

Placa Alfons III

The extraordinary Plaça Alfons III is situated on the outskirts of Mahon, near Constitution Avenue. In the north of the square are a number of interesting restaurants and cafes that are well worth a visit. The most interesting monument is the old mill area, which now occupies the tourist office

Sant Francesc Church

Located in the Plaça de Mones, in Mahon, the church of Sant Francesc houses a magnificent Gothic altar, an octagonal chapel and an interesting collection of articles Baroque.

Ciutadella Cathedral.

Ciutadella Cathedral is a magnificent XIII century temple located in the Plaza de la Catedral. The building was built on an ancient mosque in the style characteristic of contemporary Christian churches. The imposing structure consists of complex-shaped stone sculptures of mythical creatures, while the altar is decorated with carvings of Gothic.

Santa Clara Church

The church of Santa Clara is located in Ciutadella and was built in 1287. Over the centuries the church has suffered numerous breakdowns and had to be restored on several occasions. The main element is the dark temple carved wooden altarpiece representing the "Adoration of the Shepherds. " The altarpiece was stolen several years ago but, fortunately, was recovered a few years later. Currently still living in the convent a small community of nuns.

San Antonio Church

The church of Sant Antoni was built in the seventeenth century Cart Vassollo and, like many other churches in Menorca, was virtually destroyed during the Spanish civil war. For this reason remained closed for many years, while carrying out reconstruction work. It has now regained its prominent position among the most important places of worship on the island.

Weather

Menorca has a typical Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. Also known as the island of the sea breeze due to northerly winds blowing across the island quite frequently and which are known from the north. For many tourists this breeze may be missed during your stay, however, the locals are accustomed to the scourge of the north wind, especially during the month of March. Both wind does on the island which the natives have been baptized every one of them in the direction of blowing. During the months of July and August Menorca enjoys about 11 hours of sun a day and it is precisely at this time when more tourists come to enjoy the pleasures of good weather in the Balearic archipelago. During the months of November, December and January the weather is a little less sunny, while the rainy season usually starts in October and stretches during the winter months, plunging the island into a more relaxed and off.

Excursions

A wide range of routes available to explore the island of Menorca. Excursions can be arranged through a travel agency in the area and the itineraries can be tailored to the available time. If youyou travel with a large group of people ( withfamily or friends )and I like adventure ,rent a car can be the best way to discover the island freely . Just do not forget to procure a good map of Menorca before you go. Menorca links to some that show you the island can also be a good choice. In this case, not only can visit all historical places of the island, but you can also discover the stories of each place.

Museums

venOver the years the island of Menorca has known times of great splendor, who have given numerous reforms that have enabled the restoration of many of its most characteristic monuments. The many churches and religious buildings are tangible evidence of those glorious moments that have marked the history of Menorca. Similarly, Menorca museums house interesting collections of art in which you can find a wide range of works of art, from traditional crafts to contemporary art.

Source: http://www.menorca-turismo.es

Travel To Dubai

Overview

Originally a small fishing settlement that became a busy port of call on the ancient trade route between Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley, the emirate was rapidly transformed into an international business centre and modern tourist destination following the discovery of oil in 1966. Today Dubai ranks as the country's foremost commercial centre, a city whose skyline is constantly being upgraded with new developments providing the infrastructure and facilities needed for a progressive society, including world-class hotels, shopping plazas and outstanding sports facilities. Dubai Creek divides the city centre into two parts: Deira on the northern side and Bur Dubai to the south and each has its fair share of souks, restaurants, hotels, shopping malls and fine mosques.

From within these high standards of luxury and convenience, visitors can experience exotic Arabia in the bustling souks or a night in a Bedouin tent with belly-dancing under the starlit desert skies, as well as a way of life that is still embedded in the Islamic traditions of an ancient land. Dubai's attraction lies in the contrast between the ultra modern and the enchantingly traditional, which gives the city a personality like no other and visitors a variety of experiences to choose from. From desert oases and unspoiled beaches, camel races and old wind towers, to top-class shopping opportunities, avant-garde architecture and the finest international cuisine, Dubai has more than enough depth to satisfy even the most seasoned of travellers.

One of the city's top attractions is its excellent shopping. As an open port with low import duties, Dubai can offer an incredible range of top brand names at cheaper prices due to the tax-free environment, and 'shopping tourists' are drawn from around the world to this paradise of malls, souks, boutiques and modern department stores selling everything from Paris fashions to Japanese electronics. The annual Shopping Festival attracts millions of tourists to the city for a shop-till-you-drop holiday.

Why? If you live in superlative mode, a holiday in Dubai will fit the bill. Almost surreal in its high-rise glory, travel to Dubai for shopping, partying, fun in the sun, and fine dining. Experience a taste of luxury in this United Emirates showpiece that has it all, but come armed with plenty of 'plastic money' and a determination to enjoy yourself in a true Arabian pleasure dome.

When? The best time to travel to Dubai, which is blisteringly hot for most of the year, is during the cooler months between November and April, but even if you can't avoid the heat, you will find most buildings are well air-conditioned. The Emirates, of which Dubai is part, are devoutly Muslim so as a Westerner it is best to avoid the month of Ramadam when strict religious rules against eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours apply.

Who for? In a word, there is one main attraction for those who travel to Dubai, and that is shopping! The glitzy malls capitalise on the city's tax-free status, and shopping quickly becomes an addiction for visitors, even if that is not why they came to holiday in Dubai in the first place. A close second attraction is the incredible beaches and stunning resort hotels, which are shrines for sun-lovers.

Attractions

Dubai is evolving at a remarkable pace and has left its modest history as a fishing

port far behind. Yet in between the ultra-modern skyscrapers and endless construction sites, there are quite a few attractions of historical interest such as the Bastakiya district and the various souks.

Other attractions center on Dubai's defining geophysical features: the desert offers adventure touring, rock climbing and photography, while the coastline offers a p

lethora of water sports.

Dubai is not really suitable for exploring on foot. Attractions tend to be far apart and the year-round heat - reaching inferno proportions in summer - will turn your walk into an ordeal. Better options are to hire a taxi and driver for the day, join an organised tour, or rent a car and enjoy the inexpensive local gasoline while taking in the sights.

Bastakiya

The old Bastakiya district is a step back in time to the days before electricity and air-conditioning, where traditional courtyard houses were cooled by wind towers. Old Dubai was famous for its wind towers that lined the Creek on both sides, and today the narrow lanes festooned with the distinctively Arabian architecture is a popular historical attraction that has been marked for tourist development.

Grand Mosque

Boasting the city's tallest minaret at 230 feet (70m), the Grand Mosque is a notable landmark with its multi-domed style and impressive size. It is an important place of worship and can accommodate up to 1,200 worshippers inside. Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the Mosque.

Jumeirah Mosque

The Jumeirah Mosque is one of the most photographed sights in Dubai. A fine example of modern Islamic architecture, this beautiful mosque is also one of the city's largest, with a majestic dome and twin minarets, and is one of the few mosques open to non-Muslims for tours.

Dubai Museum

The imposing 19th century Al Faheidi Fort houses the Dubai Museum, which has an impressive collection of military and cultural artefacts, as well as working models and life-size displays depicting various aspects of Dubai life such as the markets, an Islamic school, the desert, Arab houses and Gulf marine life. One of the most interesting exhibits shows the underwater world of pearl-diving. The fort was built in 1799 to guard Dubai from landward approaches, and was once the residence of the city's rulers as well as the seat of government until 1971.

Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum Museum

Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum's house dates back to the 19th century, and was built for Dubai's ruler with commanding views over the sea. It is one of the oldest residences in the city and has been restored as a museum exhibiting historical photographs and artefacts showcasing Dubai's history and development. Its architecture is also a fine example of the regional style with its wind towers and central courtyard, teak wood doors and windows and wooden lattice screens.

Camel Racing

No visit to Dubai would be complete without a trip to the races…the camel races. This is a traditional sport in the UAE and hugely popular among local Emiratis who head to the race tracks early in the morning to watch these magnificent animals. The racing season runs from September to March and race tracks can be found in various locations around the Emirate and on the way to Abu Dhabi. In 2007 a brand new venue was built close to Nad Al Sheba racecourse and races are held early on Thursday and Friday mornings.

Dubai Mall

Opened in November 2008, Dubai Mall is the world’s largest shopping centre and is home to around twelve hundred retailers. It is the size of more than fifty football pitches and features an ice rink, a hotel, and is the gateway to the Burj Dubai; the tallest building in the world. The mall is home to a number of the world’s best known stores including Bloomingdales, Marks and Spencer and Montblanc. Designers such as Stella McCartney also have outlets in the complex and world famous jewellers Tiffany & Co. have a branch located there. No trip to Dubai would be complete without an outing to Dubai’s latest shopping spectacular.

Desert safari

For a real taste of Arabia, visitors can take a trip into the desert with any number of tour operators into the rolling sand dunes surrounding Dubai. Tours usually include a thrilling 4x4 drive over the dunes, camel riding, a visit to a local Bedouin village, and end with a traditional Arabian barbeque under the stars, with a show of belly dancing.

Source: http://www.wordtravels.com

Travel To Hong Kong

Once this first sensory wave has rolled over you, though, take a deep breath and start swimming with the current, because you’ll find Hong Kong is a place to delight in. Utterly safe and fantastically well organised, it offers little moments of perfection. You may find them on a plastic stool enjoying a bargain bowl of beef brisket soup or simply gazing at the thrilling harbour vistas. You’ll find them taking afternoon tea in the cool of a five-star hotel lobby or enjoying balmy open-air beers in the party zones.

Hong Kong can nudge you out of your comfort zone but usually rewards you for it, so try the stinky beancurd, sample the shredded jellyfish, brave the hordes at the city centre horseracing and join in the dawn tai chi. Escape the city limits and other experiences await – watching the sun rise from a remote mountain peak, hiking surf-beaten beaches or exploring deserted islands.

If it’s pampering you’re after, money can buy the ultimate luxuries in a city well used to serving its tiny, moneyed elite. Yet Hong Kong is also a city of simple pleasures. Most often it’s the least pricey experiences – a $2 tram or ferry ride, a whiff of incense curling from temple rafters, savouring fishing-village sundowners and seafood – that are the stuff of priceless memories.

Valued throughout Asia for its beauty and elegance, jade is an especially desired keepsake for visitors to Taipei, which has hundreds of stores specializing in jade as well as the colossal weekend Jade Market. As a long-time resident of Taiwan, I’ve been asked on more than one occasion to accompany visiting friends to purchase jade, always declining due to my lack of anything even approaching expertise. So it was good fortune indeed to be invited to take a brief course in jade identification given by the gracious Roxanne Tu, Senior Gemologist at Taipei’s Museum of Jade Art.

Roxanne brings out a velvet lined box of nine jade bracelets and announces that we’ll be starting with a test. ‘Only three of these are real jade. The others are fake. Can you tell them apart?’ The bracelets passes from hand to hand, and are h

eld to the light, examined by five pairs of eyes. When we have separated them, using nothing more than beginners instinct (disqualifying ones that look too real to be true, for example), Roxanne smiles. She does not tell us whether we’d chosen wisely or not. Instead, she asks us if we are ready to learn about jade.

Chinese New Year is celebrated around much of the world – where there’s a Chinatown there’s invariably a Chinese New Year party – but there’s something special about being in one of China’s major cities for the the high point of the Chinese year. You can expect colourful decorations but not a whole lot of public merrymaking; for the most part, this is a family festival.

Throughout the country, the weeks in the build-up to the festival are an explosion of colour, with chūnlián (spring couplets) pasted on door posts, door gods brightening up alleys and streets, and shops glistening with red and gold decorations. Work colleagues and relatives present each other with red envelopes of money and the streets ring with cries of ‘congratulations, make money’.

In Beijing, the White Cloud Temple, the Lama Temple and other temples stage entertaining miàohuì (temple fairs). Celebrations are also held in parks such as Ditan Park. At night the city echoes to the sound of continuous fireworks.

in Shanghai there’s an explosion of fireworks at midnight to welcome in the New Year and ward off bad spirits, and special services are held at Longhua Temple an

d Jing’an Temple. Top restaurants are booked out well in advance for niányèfàn (New Year’s Eve dinner). Another explosion of firecrackers on the fifth day of the New Year heralds the arrival of the God of Wealth.

Essentials: This is China’s biggest holiday and all transport and hotels are booked solid. Demand for accommodation skyrockets and prices rise steeply. Many businesses shut up shop for a week. Local

Attractions: Beijing’s major sights are clustered around the huge concrete block of Tiananmen Sq, while sections of the Great Wall of China are within day-trip range of the city. Cosmopolitan Shanghai has fast become an eastern Milan, and shoppers will feel right at home on 5km-long Nanjing Rd. Take in the best Hong Kong vista from atop 552m Victoria Peak, with views across Kowloon, the business district and Victoria Harbour.

Nothing quite matches Hong Kong from above but, then, it’s difficult to get things wrong with mountains on one side, water on

the other and skyscrapers in the middle to provide the platform. And it’s not just for thrill-seekers; fantastic views of the harbour form the backdrop of some excellent restaurants and a fair number of bars and clubs as well.

Remember, too, that it’s not just about Hong Kong from the top down. Some of the most dramatic sights in the territory are those of Hong Kong from the ground up. Just stand at the water’s edge on the promenade in Tsim Sha Tsui and you’ll understand. Views on the move are another good way to soak up Hong Kong’s uniquely energetic vistas, whether it means boarding a Star Ferry or watching an urban panorama scroll by aboard a clanking, ancient tram.

The rush of energy you get from taking in this futuristic megacity’s outline and the amazing natural topography on which it’s built is immense. You need distance and perspective to do this properly and getting as high as you can (we mean physically) is one good way to enjoy this simple thrill. Head for the Bank of China Tower designed by China-born American architect IM Pei in 1990. Take the express lift to the 43rd floor from where you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view over Hong Kong.

From here you are about the same height as the Hongkong & Shanghai Bank to the northwest. It’s a pity that you aren’t allowed to go any higher, as it’s exciting swaying with the wind at the top. Even higher (though arguably not as dramatic) is the view from the windows of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority Information Centre on the 55th floor of the Two International Finance Centre.

Weather

Both Hong Kong and Macau have a subtropical climate characterised by hot, humid summers and cool, relatively dry winters.

October, November and most of December are the best months to visit. Temperatures are moderate, the skies are clear and the sun shines. January and February are cloudy and cold but dry. It’s warmer from March to May, but the humidity is high, and the fog and drizzle can make getting around difficult. The sweltering heat and humidity from June to August can make sightseeing a sweaty proposition, and it is also the rainy season. September is a grand month if you like drama; the threat of a typhoon seems to loom every other day.

When to go

Hong Kong’s subtropical climate can make it a punishingly hot and humid destination during the summer months. June to mid-September is the hottest time when humidity soars. Summer is also typhoon season, when tropical storms sweep rain and high winds off the South China Sea.

Even in late spring and early autumn, wandering Hong Kong’s streets can be warm work. The best time to go climate-wise is in early spring (March and April) or late autumn (October and November), when the days are generally warm, fresh and (wind direction and mainland smoke stacks permitting) the air often clearer.Things can cool down a good deal in winter, when it can often be overcast (as opposed to merely smoggy) and temperatures may even feel chilly enough to don warmer layers.

Source: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/china/hong-kong

Travel To Bonaire

Bonaire is the second-largest island in the former Dutch Antilles, and has desert-like terrain offset by inviting turquoise waters. Beneath the water's surface, rainbow-hued fish drift in between coral, and many believe argue that the diving and snorkelling here is the best in the Caribbean; Bonaire's relative lack of tourism means much of its coral has gone undisturbed. For those seeking sailing or windsurfing, the characteristic windswept postures of the divi divi trees show that Bonaire's warm, dry and breezy climate is ideal for these sorts of activities.

Bonaire is highly eco-friendly and keen not to impair the fragile infrastructure of the coral, nor unsettle the island's serenity with heavy development and glitzy nightlife. Consequently, Bonaire's beautiful beaches and safe waters have remained intact. Flamingos wander the landscape of multi-hued salt plains, and multitudes of birds enjoy this paradisiacal sanctuary.

Food and Drink in Bonaire

The restaurants serve predominantly Creole cooking, particularly seafood dishes, including conch shell meat, grilled spicy fish and lobster. A variety of Chinese, French, Indonesian, Italian and international cooking can also be found. There are several hotels, restaurants and bars in Kralendijk to choose from.

Regional specialities:

• Iguana soup.
• Kabrito stoba (goat stew).
• Pika Siboyo (a popular sauce made with onions marinated in vinegar and hot peppers).
• Pastechis (plump pastries filled with spicy meat, shrimp or fish).
• Cocada (sweet cocunut candy).

Things to know:
Restaurants and bars are usually closed by midnight.

Tipping:
There is typically a 10% service charge in restaurants and a 6% tax.

Hotels in Bonaire

Hotels: There are excellent hotels and resorts on the island with good facilities for the holidaymaker, particularly in the provision of watersports equipment etc. Rates for accommodation will be approximately 20 to 40% cheaper in the off-peak season (mid April-mid December). A small room tax is added to the bill. An additional service charge of 10 to 15% may also be levied.

Bonaire History and Culture

Although 'discovered' by the Spanish explorer Amerigo Vespucci in 1499, rock inscriptions in the north of the island indicate a much earlier Amerindian presence. Spanish colonisation, which started in 1527, lasted little more than a century. By 1634, the Dutch had settled and, within two years, had consolidated their position as colonial rulers, by conquering and occupying the neighbouring islands. The Dutch West Indies Company introduced economic development schemes for which they imported hundreds of slave workers. The abolition of slavery and the end of the plantations which depended on slave labour heralded a long period of economic depression, during which the principal source of income for the bulk of the island's population were the remittances sent home by migrant workers. An indigenous economy began to emerge in the 1950s and Bonaire entered its current phase of comparative prosperity (see Business Profile).

After the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles in 2010, Bonaire became a 'special municipality' or public body of The Netherlands and is under the direct administration of the European country.

Religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic with a Protestant minority. There are many evangelical churches of different denominations, and a new mosque has also been erected on the island.

Social conventions: Dutch customs are still prevalent throughout the islands, although they are increasingly subject to US influence. Dress is casual and lightweight cottons are advised. Bathing suits should be confined to beach and poolside areas only. Nudity is prohibited on beaches except at Sorobon Beach Resort, a privately owned nudist resort.

Source: http://www.worldtravelguide.net

Travel To Brazil

Brazil is the biggest country in South America. It borders every other country of the continent except Chile and Ecuador.

Brazil is very much a country of contrasts. When someone hears the word Brazil, one thinks of the great Amazon forest, fantastic beaches, great soccer players, Carnival time - and that's all. Well, Brazil, the most important country in South America, certainly has MUCH more to offer - warm people, great cities with everything from slums to high technology, a wide range of weather patterns, an awesome mixture of cultures and races - and much more!

The most visited places in Brazil includes Fernando de Noronha Island, Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo (the two bustling megacities of the south-east), the more relaxed city of Salvador in the northeast, or the old colonial towns of Ouro Preto and Olinda. For natural beauty, try a visit to Iguacu Falls. If you have the chance the best time to visit is Carnival.

There is nothing in the whole wide world like Carnival in Rio. Brasilia, the capital city of the country, is known by its great architecture. It is a planned city.

The most up-and-coming resort in Brazil is now the small friendly Praia de Pipa, in the NE of the country; serviced by international airports at Natal and Recife, this small town is popular with both Brazilians and foreign tourists. The laid back attitude of the open and friendly locals make this a welcome change to some of the more recognised but less safe and inviting destinations.

In Southern Brazil you can visit the state of Santa Catarina, which is visited every year by people who prefer not too crowded spots like major cities or places where all tourists go. Small beaches like Mariscal, Garopaba, Taquaras or Estaleiro beach are not too far away from medium size cities, so they provide all necessary structure, but at the same time still conserve their natural enchantments. Praia do Pinho (close to Balneario Camboriu - the most important touristic spot in southern Brazil) is the paradise for naturists as it is the first official nude beach in Brazil (http://www.praiadopinho.com.br). Many options of adventure activities such as rafting, diving, fishing, trekking are aso available in this beautiful region. 

Brazil's cuisine is as varied as its geography and culture. On the other hand, some may find it an unrefined melange, and everyday fare can be bland and monotonous. While there are some quite unique dishes of regional origin, many foods were brought by overseas immigrants and have been hybridized through the generations. In Brazil, Italian and Chinese food can often be as baffling as Amazonian fare.

Brazil's national dish is feijoada, a hearty stew made of black beans and pork (ears, knuckles, sausage and pieces of beef (usually dried)). It's served with a side of white rice, garnished with collard greens and sliced orange. It's usually not served in restaurants, and ones that do, typically have it only twice a week (usually Wednesday and Saturday). A typical mistake made by tourists is to eat too much feijoada shortly after arriving. This is a heavy dish, you need to get used to it before you eat it. Even Brazilians usually eat it parcimoniously. While you are at it, try the caipirinha, Brazil´s signature drink made of wedged limes, sugar and cachaça.

Excellent seafood can be found in coastal towns. Especially in the Northeastern part of the country.

In even the smallest most towns it is easy to find self-service restaurants with good food. Brazilian restaurants tend to be quite clean, considering that this is a developing country and in many of them you can actually see the kitchen. At least you should be able to, since it´s required by law.

Most of the self-service restaurants offer two kinds of deals: they have an all-you-can-eat fixed price (called "Rodízio"), or you go "por quilo", which means that you weigh your plate after you serve yourself. This is very common during lunch time throughout Brazil.

Snacks and street food
Brazilian snacks, called lanches, include a wide variety of pastries. Look for coxinha, empadinha, and pastel. Another common snack is a misto quente, a ham-and-cheese sandwich. Also pão-de-queijo is very common...

Regional Cuisines
Southern - Churrasco is Brazilian barbeque, and is usually served "Rodizio" ou "espeto corrido" (all-you-can-eat). Waiters carry huge cuts of meat on steel spits from table to table, and carve off slices onto...

Restaurants
Eating out is a great bargain and a pleasure in Brazil. Service varies in quality but is usually inexpensive. Even in "expensive" Rio, and in the tourist...

Vegetarian food in Brazil
Although many traditional dishes are prepared with meat or fish, it is not difficult to live on vegetarian food as well. The country has a rich supply of all kinds of fruits and vegetables...

Hot drinks and soft drinks
Brazil is recognized world-wide for its high-quality strong coffee. Cafezinho (little coffee) is a small cup of sweetened coffee which is usually served for free after meals in restaurants (just ask politely). Essentially it's just a shot of espresso..

Alcoholic drinks
Brazil's most famous alcoholic drink is cachaça, an extremely potent sugar-cane liquor known to knock the unwary out quite quickly. A great place to visit in Rio de Janeiro's neighbourhood of Leblon is Academia da Cachaça...


Source: http://www.justbrazil.org/ 

Travel To Canada

Canada's most southerly region, south Ontario , contains not only the manufacturing heart of the country and its largest city, Toronto , but also Niagara Falls , Canada's premier tourist sight. North of Toronto there's the far less packaged scenic attraction of Georgian Bay , a beautiful waterscape of pine-studded islets set against crystal-blue waters.

Québec , set apart from the rest of the continent by the profundity of its French tradition, focuses on its biggest city, Montréal , which is for many people the most vibrant place in the country, a fascinating mix of old-world style and commercial dynamism. The pace of life is more relaxed in the historic provincial capital, Québec City , and more easy-going still in the villages dotted along the St Lawrence lowlands, where glittering spires attest to the enduring influence of the Catholic Church.

Across the mouth of the St Lawrence, the pastoral Gaspé peninsula - the easternmost part of Québec - borders New Brunswick , a mild-mannered introduction to the three Maritime Provinces , whose people have long been dependent on timber and the sea for their livelihood. Here, the tapering Bay of Fundy boasts amazing tides - rising and falling by nine metres, sometimes more - whilst the tiny fishing villages characteristic of the region are at their most beguiling near Halifax , the bustling capital of Nova Scotia .

Back on the mainland, separating Ontario from Alberta and the Rockies, the so-called prairie provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan have a reputation for dullness that's somewhat unfair: even in the flat southern parts there's the diversion of Winnipeg , whose traces of its early days make it a good place to break a trans-Canadian journey.

Moving west, Alberta's wheatfields ripple into ranching country on the approach to the Canadian Rockies , whose international reputation is more than borne out by the reality. The provincial capital, Edmonton , is overshadowed by Calgary , a brash place grown fat on the region's oil and gas fields, and the most useful springboard for a venture into the mountains. 

Canada is one of the most exciting travel destinations in the world. It has many interesting cities, like Toronto, North Vancouver, Montreal or Halifax. But also some of the most impressive nature, which is great for outdoor activities, like hiking, skiing, rafting and fishing. 


Canada boasts a wide, diverse culture, which we celebrate with pride, and there is simply no way to see everything in one trip - or even in a lifetime. Full of surprises, Canada is simply the most astonishingly beautiful country in the world. 


For those wanting to take advantage of the outdoors, best time is to visit in the summer. For those wanting to experience everythingCanada has to offer, visit in the winter. Temperatures range from plus 40 C in summer to minus 40 C in the winter, so dress accordingly! 


The typical Canadian might be an elusive concept, but you'll find there's a distinctive feel to the country. Some towns might seem a touch too well-regulated and unspontaneous, but against this there's the overwhelming sense of Canadian pride in their history and pleasure in the beauty of their land. Canada embraces its own clichés with an energy that's irresistible, promoting everything from the Calgary Stampede to maple-syrup festivals and lumberjacking contests with an extraordinary zeal and openness. As John Buchan, writer and Governor-General of Canada, said, "You have to know a man awfully well in Canada to know his surname." 

With Canada as your chosen holiday destination - the challenge is now where to go and what to see and do. To make the most of your precious time in this vast Continent. 

Calgary Winterfest
All things show will be highlighted during the event. A children’s carnival will be set up indoors at Devonian Gardens. There will be skiing and snowboarding at Olympic Park. Canoe portage competitions and an array of winter sports will complete the list of activities.

Annual Festival du Voyageur
An annual celebration of “joie de viure” highlights French Canadian history. A street party, dog sled races, parade and winter sportsl competitions provide something for everyone. Log sawing, barrel balancing, and beard growing all make the list of sports to watch.

Kellogg's Quebec City Winter Carnival
A great all city festival with music and street fun. Ice sculptures and snow activities for the entire family. The carnival mascot BonHomie leads the festivities

Fete des Neiges
Ice sculptures, skating, tobogganing, singing in the streets of the old city, pure family fun and revelry in Parc des Iles, Montreal

Winterlude.
North America’s largest winter festival includes endless activities for families. The festival’s activities line the longest skating rink in the world. Outaouais/Ottawa.

Thunder on Ice
The big event in the north. Snowmobiles, cars, ATV’s and dirt bikes will be competing for over $150,000 in prize money. A concert with big name music stars is also planned. TV coverage will reach 25 million households in North America. 

Source: http://www.justcanada.org/