Vichy, France

Is a spa and resort town from “Massif Central”, France, also named Vichy regime, since the Nazi occupation from 1940 to 1944. The town’s urban ring is the second largest in the area, region named Auvergne.

Napoleon III put it on the map, by believing in the remarkable power of the springs. During his years of kingship it became famous as the Queen of Spas. The imperial atmosphere survived all those years and still does in the area. As gorgeous parts of it, we can mention the opera house, over 500 hectares of parks and gardens making travelers feel like they have reached Heaven and, of course, the casino. Going there you will also enjoy the oceanic climate incorporated with some features of the mountain one, so breathing the air seems like a great sensation to try.

The first sight to catch the eyes of visitors is the permanent stream of people carrying wicker containers to the Hall des Sources.
The extreme elegant building is home to what Vichy pilgrims consider as being the fount of life.
What makes the spa unique is the great menu of different waters from twelve springs, surrounded by palm trees, pillars and flowers.

Neydharting, Austria

A wonderful and also curious way to spend a holiday is wallowing in a muddy bog, miles away from any types of cities or other forms of civilization. This spectacular spa is renowned for its baths and treatments. The secret? Moor, an oozing mud found only in this particular place, are of moorland set amid lakes and beautiful green hills. This awesome place has been a spa centre since the Romans had discovered it, but unfortunately, in the medieval times people did not take care of this place.

Today it only exists in an almost forgotten corner of the valley, although the landscape is fabulous and deserves all the attention of the potential visitors, who will not feel sorry for spending their holidays in the middle of nowhere, away from all the noise and hurry. This is that kind of pleasurable experience you are ready to repeat over and over again.

The emphasis of the spa is on simplicity, partially because of the conditions. The accommodation is cheap and functional, very close to the treatment centre. After half an hour you are taken tenderly out of the bath and left to rest an hour in a state of euphoria, swaddled in cotton sheets.

A good tip: you should trust it, as the German and Australian establishments seem to have faith in Moor’s treating powers, as long as they DO send pacients to this miraculous place, and it’s good for everybody.

Neydharting is also a good destination for those who enjoy sophisticated pursuits, having this way a great possibility of taking long and helpful walks.

Vulcano, Sicily

If you desperately want to escape from the stressful crowded life in the city, another proper destination for you to relax is the southern-most of the Aeolian islands in the north coast of Sicily. Most tourists come from Lipari and are day-trippers, incomprehensible thing, taking in consideration the fact that this place is truly miraculous and its natural resources have remained untapped until now by tourism.

An awful stench greets you, coming from the sulfides in the volcano. Still, you shall get over that, because it’s these concentrated sulfur products that constitute an excellent natural treatment. Also, doing this sort of activity is always even better when you get to see this sort of landscape.

Another advantage is that the pool is open for everyone, without any cure centre or facilities, things are natural and rustic, having this effect of making people understand that nature still is(or, at least, should be) an important part of our lives. The sensation is similar to sitting in a large natural Jacuzzi, although the experience might turn unpleasant if scalding water bubbling catches out through the rock.

All in all, once you have found a perfect spot with relaxing bath temperature water, you can analyze the active volcano with steam issuing from the fissures in its sides.

The Schönbrunn Palace

, considered the most beautiful baroque palace in Europe, is the replica of Versailles Palace and was the residence of the royal family since the XVIIIth century until 1918. Only 40 rooms of the 1411 rooms of the palace and adjacent buildings are open for public visitation.

Its interior is majestic: Ceiling paintings of Fresco with lampadare crystal, covered with ornaments in gold and huge mirrors. The most beautiful part is the Grand Gallery, where numerous balls are taken. In the Mirrors’ Room Mozart, at the age of six, gave his first royal concert in 1762, in front of princess Maria Theresa and the royal family. Emperor Franz Joseph (1848-1916) inaugurated in 1882 the Palmarium (sera of palm trees), the largest in Europe, where one can admire today the most beautiful specimens in the plant collection, which has become historical.

This is where you can also visit the largest and the oldest Zoo in Europe; moreover, the parks and gardens are magnificent. Glorietta is a triumphal arch located on the edge of the hill and offers a splendid view over the city and surroundings.

The Versailles

Another palace, which in French is known as Chateau de Versailles, is definitely worth visting. When the castle was built, Versailles was a regional village, today a suburb of Paris. Since 1682 The Court of Versailles has been the central power in France, during that regime. Years later,the facade becomes a rectilinear garden terrace, by replacing the center of the Mirrors, age-specific style of Louis XIII.

This cheerful facade has as opposing side the part from the park, an imposing facade, fully stoned. Mansart gives up these specific baroque features, saying a classic style, with a uniform rate, where horizontality and symmetry dominate, which will rigurosly impose itself. He tames the ensemble severity, drawing 2 online casinogroin rows in the center, enlivening this way to the top of the railings with some trophies and sculptures for the turnout.The interior decoration reflects the regal magnificence.

The ” Art of Versailles ”, based on the extent, clarity, harmony and order, becomes the French classicism. Versailles is not only a huge palace, but also an expression of thinking policy. This should not be regarded as a spectacular enactment where all compete for the monarch’s glory: architecture, painting, gardens, sculptures, ornamentation. In the park a vast forest can be seen, land for amenity and shooting. This great East- West axis crosses the King’s room, located in the center of the immense facades measuring no more, no less than 600 m long, oriented NS. The king’s life may be compared to the sun, which renews every morning to bring joy and benefits people in France and worldwide.

Gugong or Forbidden City

. Cultural and administrative center of the former Chinese empire still fascinates the tourists. The Chinese remain impressed, that “the city of the city” was the center of the world. Gugong has a square surface of 72 hectares and is almost totally surrounded by a ditch with water, which has a protective role. The city is also surrounded by a large wall, which reaches a height of 10.4 meters.

While hidden again, now more than seven million visitors annually iron its borders. Many sections are already closed to allow the development of the renovation works.

Babylon

, the old area called Mesopotamia, originally known as Sumer, and later as Sumer and Akkad, lies between the rivers Eufrat and Tiger, south of Baghdad today. The Babilonian civilization, between 18 BC sec and 6 BC,  was like the Sumerian one that preceded it, with urban characteristics, although based on agriculture. The kingdom was composed of about 12 towns surrounded by villages.

The political head of state was the king, which had executive powers, and also judicial and legislative. This was helped by governors and administrators. Cities were headed by a council of old people and a clerk appointed by the king. Its history seems more than interesting to any of those who love old civilisations and seeing it would constitute a true pleasure.

5.Virgin British Islands

– If you do like savage locations and virgin beaches, then Peter Island is all you need. The private resort is the ideal place to bring romance back in you life. You can walk along the wild beaches, you can take advantage of the opportunities to go on private trips on the sea, you can also benefit of romantic dinners, and you can get accomodation on a private villa situated on the island’s hills.

The fifth largest, Peter Island has the shape of letter L and covers an area of 729ha. It was first colonized by German slave traders. After the abolition of slavery the island has turn back to normal. Half of it, with a port for boats and docks, is dedicated to club yachting and the other half is deserted, unfortunately.
The island offers excellent diving, five beaches, trails and roads for cycling. It is also so little populated that you will only find iguanas or descendants of the cats brought hundreds of years ago by sailors. One of the most visited places on the island is Deadman’s Bay beach, a golf course surrounded by exotic plants. Another intimate and beautiful location is The White Bay beach, which offers excellent diving sites of the surface.
At the risk of trotting out a hackneyed phrase, the British Virgin Islands are truly an “island paradise”. If you close your eyes and imagine a Caribbean sailing vacation … odds are you are envisioning these beaches!

4.Saint Vincent

– Looking for adventure, relaxation and culture ? St. Vincent offers climbing the volcanic mountains, swimming in waterfalls and safari trips. And these are just some of the attractions. Others include scuba diving, luxury yachts and historic forts. Otherwise, you can participate in one of the island’s festivals, such as ” Rhythms and Blues,” “Vincy Mas” Carnival or the Festival of Fisheries.

St Vincent is part of the Windward Caribbean islands group and lies just over 100 miles South-West of Barbados. Saint Vincent is a mountainous volcanic island 18 miles long and 11 miles wide. Its interior is rugged with lush jungle and vegetation; the island is dominated by La Soufriere, an active volcano in its northern part. Grenadines made it famous; particularly sailors come there to analyze and better “taste” the miracles of nature.

3. Yasawa, Fiji

– Are you looking for a private paradise, where even televisions are not accepted ? Then Yasawa Island Fiji is perfect. One of the 15 words that name “sky” in the official language of the island is “Yasawa” and it`s not hard to understand why: beautiful forests, white fine sand and the only place where you can accommodate is a “sanctuary” Fijian built of straw. You can be sure that you’ll love to see them live, when you visit the island.

The islands are a favourite destination thanks to Fiji’s modest resorts and going there you will have the great pleasure to admire the amazing coastlines, traditional fishing villages, turquoise-colored waters and isolated beaches. The accommodation is usually in small bungalows covered with reeds.

2. Huahine, French Polynesia

– If you want enjoy Tahiti, but you don’t like crowds, Huahine island is all you need. Huahine is actually composed of two islands connected by a bridge. Fine sands, isolated bays and rich flora dominate the island, creating a paradise. There is a variety and wealth so large in terms of “green” that often kept this is called “Garden Island “. You can benefit from all forms of water sports and the couple riding and travel by helicopter are great.

It is covered with lush tropical forest and huge trees that grow on the island’s varied topography. Offshore islands have barrier reefs that protect the crops of local melons.

1. Saba, Netherlands Antilles

-Queen Island of the Caribbean is a small :stain” of land in the middle of the ocean which has incredibly much to offer. Saba is the smallest island of the Antilles under the Dutch government, but its history is extremely rich. During 1600 it was a heaven for pirates and today is one of the main attractions in the Caribbean, with its mountains, tropical forests and an impressive underwater life. And talking about history, it used to be “The land of spices” as the indigenous used to call it.

In other words, it is the perfect place for a relaxing holiday, the perfect place to go with your family and forget about the crowded city life, enjoying nature’s wonders. Once you have been there, you will become addicted and visit it over and over again.

One of those countries so well known for their legal drugs is Netherlands, mentioned above. You might be asking now: yes, but why Netherlands? Because, as I was saying, there are other legal things to experience or just see, gaining this way life experience and also enlarging your horizons. You can also try to cross the barrier of your life-style and just enjoy the sight. Even if some do criticize this country for its indulgence, others seem more interested in finding out as much as possible about things such as euthanasia or prostitution. And, of course, some take it as a wonderland for its gorgeous landscapes. The tulip has become a loved symbol of this litigious country, showing purity and serenity.

Besides getting high(in a perfect legal way) you can also visit famous cities like Rotterdam(the second biggest port in the world). Another important thing to visit would be the Peace Palace in The Hague, home of many judicial national and international institutions, including the International Court of Justice. A the target of many law students all over the world, this place is the house of the rights. If you make the choice to visit Utrecht too, then you’ll have the opportunity to see a couple of imposing museums such as the National Museum which is impressive for its collection of musical instruments or the Central Museum, famous for the items thought to date from the Middle Ages.

Even if drugs might not be legal in some places, you can still consume, if you know where to ask for it. A propper place is, of course, Jamaica. Police don’t really give a shit about people smoking weed in public places. Be it Kingston, Mandeville, Negril or Ocho, you WILL have a great time.

Besides, you can also go shopping, Kingston being internationally known for its range of shops, markets and services. As there are lots of clubs, bars and pubs, you will certainly find a way of an entertaining programme. It’s here where you can find The Rotunda, a modern entertainment complex built on four levels, which sounds perfect for a visitor trying to spend his time in a pleasant way.

Another place to go is Argentina, where supposedly consuming cannabis is legal, although you may not buy or sell, grow it or smoke in public places. If you possess more than 5 grams and the Police stop, it won’t be your best day ever. The truth is that legislation doesn`t stop some people from smoking in parks, parking lots or other public places, but they are supposed to have assumed their responsibility for their facts.

Besides getting high, you may also visit lots of interesting things. The so called “land of six continents”, one of the biggest countries in the world, Argentina may offer you the great pleasure of admiring Plaza de Mayo in Buenos Aires, or the Iguazu Falls,  taller and wider than Niagara Falls. Nature is the perfect place for those people living in the big cities. It helps you chill out and see things in a totally different way.

If three places aren`t enough for you, there’s no problem, as long as Ecuador exists. In this country you are allowed to carry two marijuana cigarettes, although growing and selling are prohibited.

Another good reason for you to go to Ecuador are the comfortable prices.
You can make a short trip to the Galapagos Islands, which belong to that country. It could also be an interesting way of improving your Spanish. You can also visit MAAC, an Anthropological and Contemporary Art Museum, which was inaugurated in 2004. It holds impressive archeological and art items.

Saint Vitus’s Cathedral was built up round Saint Vaclav’s tumb, the patron of Bohemia. He was a Christian noble, beloved by people. The cathedral was edified where all his dregs were assembled and burried by his brother.
Spiritual symbol of the Czech Republic, the chapel is magnificently decorated and its architecture gives the monument a unique aspect. The gems that decorate it, the pictural scenes that date since the XIVth century confer it nobleness and the light that bites into, blurred by the Bohemia stained glass enhances its charm. Other really special elements of the building are Crown Room, Queens’ and Kings’ Crypt, Final Judgement’s Mosaic on the south front of the cathedral, plentifully decorated, dating since 1370, considered to be the oldest external monumental mosaic from the Northern Alpes.
Witness of the fascinating history of the city where the reformer Jan Hus was burnt at the stake, where the legend of Golem was born, the fantastic creature of Yehuda Levai’s Rabbi, or мебелиFranz Kafka’s creations, Saint Vitus’s Cathedral keeps vigil silently, surrounded by a misterious atmosphere, the old and illustrious capital of Boemia’s kingdom.

Notre Dame Cathedral – one of the most important cathedrals of the world. Even though the Romanic style is evoked, it is here where, for the first time, were applied architectural solutions belonging to the Gothic style. Possessing imposant proportions, 130 m length, 35 m height, the front nave is embellished with paintings and statues.
Notre – Dame is considered to be the darkest cathedral of the big Gothic ones, the light which is filtered through the colored rosettes confering mystical feelings in the severe penumbra.

Siena Cathedral is a gorgeous mixture of Gothic and Romanic styles designed by Nicola Pisano, dating from 1220. Known as being one of the biggest cathedrals from Italy, it could have become even the biggest Christian cathedral if a severe plague of the XIV-th century had not had obstructed the continuation of the already begun plans. The Siena Dome was risen between 1215 and 1263, its architecture belonging, partially, to the gothic master Nicola Pisano. His son, Jovanni, designed the plans for the inferior part of the facade, begun in 1285.
The exterior is made out of multi-coloured marble, while the interior is black and white. Most of the sculptures, placed on its facade, are copies of the originals (which are kept inside for better preservation).

Virgin Mary , Cracow – impressing and well-kept, dating from 1220. It is easy to recognise because of the two towers of different patterns and sizes. It is also known for its shire sculpted in wood during the XVth century, by the German Veit Stoss.
And if you don’t believe in miracles, you’ll have to pay attention to this one: during the earthquake from 1442, many of the constructions collapsed, but not its big tower, which didn’t even move.

Saint Etienne Cathedral – Religious edifice from Sens, France. One of the earliest Gothic catherdals in France, its construction had begun in 1140 and belongs almost completely to the XIIth century.
The bells from the belfry in the tower were very famous during the Middle Ages. The two bells that “survived” until today, La Savinienne and La Potentienne, weigh 15, 3 and 13, 8 tons.
From all the marvels existing in the interior of the cathedral, one of the most important is the tomb of the Louis Dauphin of France king.
The bas-reliefs in the cathedral describe scenes of Antoine Duprat’s life, the chancellor of France between 1525 and 1535. The mausoleum where these bas-reliefs come from was destroyed during the French Revolution.
The chatedral’s treasury, one of the richest in antiquities of the entire France, keeps a piece of the original cross presented by Charlemange, next to the vestments of Thoman Becket. All these are now kept in this museum, one that truly deserves to be seen in a lifetime.

Westminster Chatedral– is one of the most visited churches from the United Kingdom. This is the daily place to come for many English. There are special ceremonies and gatherings of the worshippers, who often fill it up completely. The interior is decorated with a succession of artistic elements which are connected to the dedication day.
Its Byzantine architecture makes it an unique presence in the urbanised London, the atmosphere of deep prayers from inside making the Queen Elisabeth of England to visit it in 1995. Many other personalities have been there to pray or, perhaps, just to visit it as a cultural sanctuary. One of those people is Tony Blair. As he is Christian, he often comes here to collect his thoughts with his wife, Cherie Blair, a well-known Catholic.

Saint Andrew’s Singapore – In 1834 began the building of the first Anglican dwelling cult. Today, the actual cathedral of Singapore, dedicated to Saint Andrew, a veritable architectonical jewel is NOT the original one. The first one was built in 1834 and, destroyed by a lightning, its reconstruction imposing itself as a necesity. At that time, the natives thought it was a sign feom God. They suggested cutting thirty heads to make the evil spirits calm down, but, of course, the English refused to listen to that piece of advice. The new structure, in a Gothic English Renaissantist style,was finished in 1861.
Placed on a pretty crowded commercial area, Saint Andrew’s Cathedral watches white and serene the urban agitation around it, from the middle of a green area, which makes you think of England’s marvelous nature, while its tower keeps its eyes on the trees all around the park, as a veritable Christian sentinel in this distant Asian city.

Cape Town is the legislative capital of South Africa , the place where is located the Parliament and where lots of governmental institutions have their seat, also being the third biggest city, regarding from the point of view of the great and growing number of denizens. A point of attraction for all the tourists arrived here are the beaches. Because of its geography, in Cape Town there can be visited several beaches during a day, each one revealing a specific sight and an astonishing background. And when you don’t want any type of sun tanning, you can go shopping on Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, or visit Two Oceans Aquarium.

Some of Cape Town’s must see attractions include Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront and Cape Point. Also, you really should taste the wine from the Cape Winelands!

Photo by mike trax

Harbor on the Atlantic Ocean, Freetown is the capital of the African state Sierra Leone. The territory of the country reveals many rare species of animal and birds like Diana monkeys. Until 2012, Freetown is going to become a perfect destination, especially for the tourists who love playing golf, thanks to the 500 millions project of some English paymasters.
The Harmony Hall, a gallery built on the ruins of a 17th century plantation house, exploring the art and cultural history of the Caribbean, is one of the most impressive landmarks there. One of Freetown’s most recognisable features is its famous cotton tree. The cotton tree has reportedly been in the same position since colonists settled in the area in 1787 when the tree was still a young sapling. It now stands outside the Freetown Museum.

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Cairo is the capital of Egypt, with an estimated population of 16 to 20 million. Being the biggest City in Africa, there can be found the seat of the Arabian League. Its most important attractions are: the Egyptian Museum(lodging the biggest collection of ancient egyptian exhibits), Khan El-Khalili(the funniest part of the city, the main shopping area), the Tower of Cairo(187 m height, 43 more meters than the Great Gizeh Pyramid).

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Also known as the Triumphant City, Cairo boasts some of the most impressive landmarks you can see in your lifetime, and some remarkable contradictions; magnificent Muslim monuments blend with the unique Christian churches, and the Egyptian Antiquities Museum contrasts with the part of the city with a modern infrastructure. Almost everywhere you can see merchants displaying their stuff, cultural aspects long forgotten in some parts of the world but also thieves. Watch out for those!

In Algiers there are several public attractions, including the Kasbah district, the National Library as well as Bardo Museum and the Catholic Cathedral “Notre Dame d’Afrique”. The Ketchaoua Mosque was, before the attainment of the independence in 1962 the St. Phillipe Cathedral, in its turn converted from an older mosque dating from the XVIIth century. The building is an interesting architectonical monument, a curious mixture of Byzantine and Moresque style. Bardo Museum, important touring objective detains some ancient sculptures and mosaics discovered in Algeria, as well as some algerian medals and coins.

The modern part of the city is built on the level ground by the seashore, which gives it a pitoresque feel, which attracts millions of tourists each year. Despite what you might be tempted to think, it’s a modern capital, despite emerging from a troubled past. The skyline is dominated by two shapes: the Martyrs Monument (Makam ech-Chahid) in the south and in the city center, the box-like shape of the Hotel Aurassi.

Dakar is situated on a peninsula, the furthest in the west continental Africa. This s a special place, giving the opportunity of several activities. There are fishers selling the fish and sea food, but also magnificent casinos, imposing museums and cathedrals, residential districts with mantions and small cosmopolitan restaurants.
But probably, what you really should look for is not as impressive as you would think : markets, cafes, splendid food and an exciting night life is what makes it a favorite for a significant amount of people. There are also many art galleries for the romantic; oh, but if you’re like that… the beach is for you! If not, and you’re more like the wild type, check out the Paris – Dakar rally!

The myths say that under the famous pyramid there are labyrinths that lead to unknown places, from where there’s no escape for at least a few weeks or even months, apparently turning to eternity. The Sphinx of Giza is a symbol that has represented the essence of Egypt for thousands of years. Even with all of the pictures that we see of the Sphinx, nothing can really prepare you for the time that you finally see the Sphinx with your own eyes.
There are anomalies regarding the sphinx’s soil, according to some tests made by experts, this being another specific feature of it, one more reason to visit it.
The Great Sphinx is to the northeast of Chephren’s Valley Temple. Where it sits was once a quarry. Chephren’s workers shaped the stone into the lion and gave it their king’s face over 4,500 years ago. The sphinx faces the rising sun with a temple to the front which resembles the sun temples which were built later by the kings of the 5th Dynasty.

The word ‘sphinx’, which means ‘strangler’, was first given by the Greeks to a fabulous creature which had the head of a woman, the body of a lion and the wings of a bird. In Egypt, there are numerous sphinxes, usually with the head of a king wearing his headdress and the body of a lion. There are, however, sphinxes with ram heads that are associated with the god Amun. But the most amazing is the one we’re taking in consideration today, the one I say we shall visit, as a true wonder of the world, as a perfect destination for an unforgettable trip