iixii_AUTHOR PROFILE_iixii

NAME : SITI SUHAILA BINTI ABIDIN

MATRIC. NO  : A10A183

FACULTY  : FACULTY ENTREPRENEUR BUSINESS (ENTREPRENEURSHIP HEALTH WITH HONORS

DATE OF BIRTH   : 17 DECEMBER 1990

PLACE OF BIRTH : HOSPITAL PONTIAN, JOHOR.

AREA OF STUDY   : PENGKALAN CHEPA, KELANTAN.

AMBITION : HEALTH CONSULTANT

EVALUATION IN THIS ASSIGNMENT : MAKES ME WANT TO GO TO INTERESTING AND IMPRESSIVE DESTINATIONS IN THE WORLD.

         
       

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GRAND CANYON

Nearly five million people see the 1 mile deep (1.6 km) Grand Canyon each year. Most of them see it from their car at overlooks along the South Rim (this includes Grand Canyon Village, Hermits Rest, and Desert View). The South Rim, the most accessible part of the park, is open all year, averaging 7000 feet/ 2134 m above sea level. A much smaller number of people see the Canyon from the North Rim, which lies just 10 miles / 16 km (as the California condor flies) directly across the Canyon from the South Rim. The Inner Canyon includes everything below the rim and is seen mainly by hikers, mule riders, or river runners. There are many opportunities here for adventurous and hardy persons who want to backpack, ride a mule toPhantom Ranch, or take a river trip through the Canyon on the Colorado River (which can take anywhere from several days to three weeks - there are no one-day river trips through the length of Grand Canyon).

 DENALI NATIONAL PARK 

"Denali" is the name that Athabascan Indian people gave to the mountain. It means "The High One." Denali is the highest peak in the 700-mile long Alaska Range, which crosses Alaska, from west to east.

Why is Denali so much taller than the other mountains in the Alaska Range?There are three reasons. The first is, it is still growing. Not a lot – but, it is getting taller at the rate of a millimeter every year. The second is that it is younger than the surrounding mountains. Denali is thought to be 56 million years old, and its neighbors are 100 to 400 million years old – so they have been worn down by the elements, including snow and glaciers. The third reason Denali is so tall is that it's made of harder rock. So is Foraker, the next tallest mountain, which is close by.

        Yellowstone

The world’s first National Park is one of the planet’s most unique collections of geography, geothermal activity, and wildlife. Once-common North American animals such as bison, grizzly bears, and wolves live here among other large species just as they did when the first European explorers arrived to document this strange and wonderful place. Thousands of geysers surround historic lodges, mountains, rivers, and canyons that make Yellowstone one of the most spectacular places in America to experience the natural world. Yellowstone is a wilderness filled with natural wonders that are also potential hazards. There is no guarantee of your safety. Regulations are strictly enforced to protect you and the park's resources.National Parks are worth a visit. It is our countries legacy. There's no better way to bond with the family and enjoy the great outdoors. Most National Parks have something unique to become a designated National Park. Yellowstone is beyond special, it is the world's first national park. It is over 2.2 million acres packed inside an ancient caldera. Geysers, waterfalls, wildlife and scenic beauty. They are maintained only during daylight hours and may close during severe storms. Expect snowpack, ice, frost heaves, drifts. Mud/Snow tires or tire chains may be required and are recommended always. Speed limit for all vehicles is 45 mph (73 kph), or lower where posted—such as from North Entrance to Mammoth. Do not stop on the road or block traffic when viewing wildlife or scenery. Use pullouts. Trails and overlooks may be snow-covered, icy, and dangerous. Obey all trail closures. 

                                                                                                                        LAS VEGAS STRIP

It's always hip to party on the Strip. It's the electric spine of a legendary town that lives on chills, thrills and a perennial buzz. The Las Vegas Strip is somehow everything you expect it to be, but still manages to surprise. Hop on and enjoy the ride.You'll want to pick a home base - a place to store your suitcase and change into your party shoes. There are a variety of Las Vegas Strip hotels for every taste, theme and price point. And they're all convenient to just about everything. On the Strip, location is everything. The Strip is everything. And each location is fantastic. If you're looking for elegance on the Las Vegas Strip, the choices are vast, but the fountains outside your window at theBellagio make this Strip resort a favorite of Vegas regulars. And the fountains are just the start. Inside the lobby, you'll check in under a Chihuly glass sculpture that defies imagination. Stroll through the botanical gardens while the bellhop delivers your luggage to your room. Then start your vacation with crepes at a spectacular three-story chocolate fountain. Centrally located inside the recently built CityCenter, ARIA offers hip, modern sophistication. And the rooms are state-of-the-art, remembering your temperature, music and lighting preferences on each subsequent visit.Head north for a quintessential Only Vegas experience at the Stratosphere, the largest tower west of the Mississippi. Drop your bags and head straight to the top for dining, thrill rides and a plunge right off the edge - safely strapped in, of course. Recently remodeled, the Tropicana is classic Vegas. The bright colors, spectacular scenery and electric vibe deliver a true Vegas experience. It's a must see for first-timers. And, of course, no one does a theme like Las Vegas. The Venetian offers opulence throughout. While you'll never forget you're in Vegas, you'll enjoy the touches that bring a little bit of Italy to the Strip.

MANHATTAN

New York City comprises the central island of Manhattan and the four outer boroughs – Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Staten Island. Manhattan, to many, is New York; certainly, this is where you’re likely to stay and spend most of your time. The island is broadly divided into three areas: Downtown (below 14th St), Midtown (14th St to Central Park/59th St) and Uptown (north of 59th St). Though you could spend weeks here and still barely scratch the surface, there are some things to do in New York that you won’t want to miss. These include the different ethnic neighbourhoods, like Chinatown, and the more artsy concentrations of Soho and the East and West villages. Of course, there is the celebrated architecture of Midtown and the Financial District, as well as many fabulous museums – not just the Metropolitan and MoMA, but smaller collections like the Frick and the Morgan Library that afford days of happy wandering. In between sights, you can eat just about anything, at any time, cooked in any style; you can drink in any kind of company; and enjoy any number of obscure movies. The more established arts – dance, theatre and music – are superbly presented. For the avid consumer, the choice of shops is vast, almost numbingly exhaustive, in this heartland of the great capitalist dream.

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"I TRAVEL NOT TO GO ANYWHERE, BUT TO GO. I TRAVEL FOR TRAVEL'S

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FLORENCE TUSCANY

A close second was Tuscany which of course includes Florence. Here, clients visited famous works of art with wonderful tour guides, cycled and hiked in the countryside, visited designer outlets and ceramics shops and antiques markets and out-of-the-way small towns, participated in olive and truffle festivals, went to local concerts, tasted wine at vineyards and lazed over long lunches, hit the beach, and hunted sunflowers and poppies in the Tuscan hills.

   The Lakes District
Here I included the lakes Como, Maggiore, and Garda. Several trips went to the Lakes this year, but number of hotel nights were low, usually just 2-3 nights per trip. Lakes Como and Maggiore are an easy transition for travelers flying into and out of Milan’s Malpensa airport, and Lake Garda is an easy stop on the way to Venice. Travelers to the Lakes went hiking, took cable cars up the mountain, traveled across the lakes by boat and hydrofoil, and sipped wine lakeside while watching the sunset.

  The Colosseum

The Roman Forum and the Colosseum are probably the most famous and most frequented tourist sights in Italy and with millions of visitors every year the ancient heart of the Roman world is a must-see for any tourist. While the Forum itself is far from its glorious best and requires a little imagination, the Colosseum remains as a magnificent ancient stadium which can still be explored top to bottom. Despite their popularity however, the truth is that the throngs of tourists and cheap-looking ‘legionaries’ take something away from the majesty of these ancient buildings – but then perhaps that adequately reflects what they would have actually been like in their prime - noisy, bustling and anarchic - the ironic beating heart of an Empire whose mission was to bring order from chaos.

     

Manarola (Cinque Terre) 

Mestled in the Italian Riviera, Manarola is one of the oldest towns in Cinque Terre. The “Five Lands” comprises of five villages noted for their beauty. Part of Cinque Terre charm is the lack of visible modern development. Paths, trains and boats connect the villages, and cars cannot reach it from the outside. The towns sprout out of the mountainside to provide a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean sea.



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"ALL JOURNEYS HAVE SECRET DESTINATIONS OF WHICH THE TRAVELLER IS UNAWARE"

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   PYRAMIDS

         There are more than 80 pyramids in Egypt which were built mostly between 2600 BC and 1500 BC and all are situated close to the Nile river. After the ruler died (or other prominent royal figures like queens), their bodies were wrapped and preserved as a mummy, and placed in the Pyramid. The most popular pyramids are the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, an estimated 20,000 to 30,000 workers built the Pyramids at Giza over 80 years. Giza also has the largest pyramid, known as “Great Pyramid”, which rises to an amazing 481 feet.

  Nile River                       

           “Egypt is the gift of the Nile... Nowhere are there so many marvelous things as in Egypt, nor in the whole world besides are to be seen so many things of unspeakable greatness,” wrote the Greek scholar Herodotus in 425 BC. Egypt has stunned and delighted its visitors for millennia, and the Nile River is the gateway to its many gems and one-of-a-kind treasures.

A Nile River cruise offers a whole new perspective on Egypt. Traveling onboard a Uniworld ship lets you experience the heart and soul of this amazing country, as many of Egypt’s cities and towns developed along the Nile. The Nile has long been a reflection of Egypt’s history and destiny—an economic lifeline, a great highway to conquest, and a source of inspiration throughout the centuries—and now it’s your turn to be inspired at every turn by its powerful myths, ancient history, and spiritual wonders. From grand colonnaded temples to bustling marketplaces to rural villages where life exists much as it did thousands of years ago, a cruise along the Nile is like watching 5,000 years of culture unfold before your eyes.

  Siwa-Oasis-Egypt

                The Siwa Oasis is situated in the Western Desert close to the Libyan border. It is Egypt's most remote oasis town and the Siwans have developed their own distinct Berber culture. Siwans speak their own language and their jewellery and crafts are exquisite. A decent road and a small airport have certainly put the Siwa Oasis on the tourist map but it is still off the beaten track. As well as its unique culture, the Siwa oasis is known for its geographical beauty, hot springs and the fact that Alexander the Great traveled here to visit the Oracle of Amun.

            It's a wonderful place to relax, swim and eat some olives. The old town of Siwa dates back to the 13th century and its mud and brick architecture looks gnarled and quite unique.

 Sharm El-Sheikh

              Sharm El-Sheikh - is another attractive city of Egypt situated on the southern end of Sinai Peninsula. This place is considered as one of the most unique pitching spots in the world. Your eyes will get tantalize due to crystal clear water and white sandy beaches during your tour to Sharm El Sheikh.Sharm El Sheikh is categorized into three regions viz. Na'ama Bay, Ras Um Sid Cliff and Sharm El Maya. As it is one of the most perfect diving spots, several private companies are undertaking diving courses at all levels offering you a great opportunity to learn diving.Best places to see are - Sinai Mountain, Na'ama Bay, Tiran Island, Terrazzina Beach and White Lagoon.
THE EGYPT MUSEUM

The Egyptian Museum was first built in Boulak. In 1891, it was moved to GizaPalace of "Ismail Pasha" which housed the antiquities that were later moved to the present building. The Egyptian Museum is situated at Tahrir square in Cairo. It was built during the reign of Khedive Abbass Helmi II in 1897, and opened on November 15, 1902 (More History). It has 107 halls. At the ground floor there are the huge statues. The upper floor houses small statues, jewels, Tutankhamon treasures and the mummies.

         The Museum also comprises a photography section and a large library The Egyptian museum comprises many sections arranged in chronological order

v The first section houses Tutankhamon's treasures.

v The second section houses the pre-dynasty and the Old Kingdom monuments.

v The third section houses the first intermediate period and the Middle Kingdom monuments.

v The forth section houses the monuments of the Modern Kingdom.

v The fifth section houses the monuments of the late period and the Greek and Roman periods.

v The sixth section houses coins and papyrus.

v The seventh section houses sarcophagi and scrabs.

        A hall for the royal mummies was opened at the museum, housing eleven kings and queens. More than a million and half tourists visit the museum annually, in addition to half a million Egyptians.

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Tiananmen Square Most people visit Tiananmen Square on their way to the Forbidden City, both can be done together in a morning or afternoon. Chinese citizens from around the country descend on Tiananmen to take their photos in front of the portrait of Chairman Mao. When there is a breeze you can buy a kite and fly it on the square.
Tiananmen Square is the largest public square in the world. It is a tourist site everyone tends to visit on their trip to Beijing. A vast desert of paving stones, the square can hold over one million people. It lies on the historical central axis going through the Forbidden City. Expect to go through airport level security when going onto the square, with metal detectors and x-ray machines. There is also a high level of police presence. Nonetheless people are very friendly and its on most Beijing itineraries.
GREAT WALL                 

The Great Wall is a must see on a trip to China. Our trips to the Great Wall have no hidden shopping stops so we maximize your time on the wall. There are several sections to visit, but we recommend the Mutianyu section if you are taking a day trip, as this will take about half your day. If you want to do a serious hiking trip, then Jinshanling to Simatai or Gubeikou is recommended. The Great Wall was key to protecting agriculture and resisting cavalry of the Huns and other warrior tribes from the north. The advantages of the enormous barrier diminished with the advancement of gunpowder and other weaponry.

The wall was originally built of stone, wood, grass and earth. In the Ming Dynasty bricks were produced in kilns set up along the wall. The bricks were transported by men carrying them on their backs, donkeys, mules and even goats had a brick tied to their head before being driven up a mountain.

The Great Wall of China was built over more than two thousand years. Construction on the first section began between the 7th and 6th century BC, and the last work on the wall was done between the 14th and 17th centuries.



  SHANGHAI

Shanghai is the largest city in China, and one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world, with over 20 million people. Shanghai is a modern city with a past linked to foreign occupation through World War II. The row of historic bank buildings on the Bund shows the architecture brought by foreigners when Shanghai was the banking capital of Asia. Now modern development in Pudong has changed the face of the city into a modern metropolis. Shanghai maintains some of its 1930's feel to it. Chinese people in Shanghai are more liberal and modern, being farther from Beijing. Foreigners living in Shanghai are there for business reasons, and thus Shanghai has more of a "New York" feel to it.

Shanghai experiences four distinct seasons, but temperature differences between the hottest part of summer and the depths of winter are extreme. In summer, temperatures can reach in the 90°F (mid-30°C) and the hottest months are July and August, with about 80% humidity. Most of Shanghai's rainfall occurs during this period. In winter, temperatures can drop below zero and conditions tend to be grey and dull, though no snowfall occurs. Springtime (March to June) is perhaps the best time to travel to Shanghai, with more moderate conditions than summer, although weather can be variable at this time of year. Autumn (September to November) also tends to be moderate, with sunny, dry weather, though the odd typhoon can occur between September and October. 
YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE

Cruising on the china river journeys made by many travelers. When added to a long China itinerary it is like a vacation in your trip. You get to nest in a nice room in a comfortable ship, walk to all your meals and watch the scenery go by as your ship cruises along. Our advice would be to choose the best ship you can afford, because much of the enjoyment comes just from being on a nice ship. As you travel along you will be shuttled ashore on various excisions, most of which are included in the price of your tour. Meals aside from the first night are also included.

Most rooms will include a small refrigerator. Its also nice to bring your own fruit to enjoy. but don't worry, if you don't there is plenty to eat and drinks to buy on board. You normally receive one bottle of drinking water per person per day. You can also buy drinks onshore when you make your excursions, there are vendors in most places.

  GIANT PANDAS AND CHENGDU

The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (hereafter Chengdu Panda Base) is a non-profit organization engaged in wildlife research, captive breeding, conservation education, and educational tourism.

The Chengdu Panda Base was founded in 1987, with six giant pandas rescued from the wild. Today (2008) our captive population has increased to 83 individuals from that founding population of only six. Genetic diversity in the population is sustained by the exchange of preserved genetic material with other facilities. We are very proud that we have not taken any giant pandas from the wild for 20 years. This demonstrates our unique and uncompromising commitment to the conservation of the wild ( in situ ) population and the healthy growth of the captive ( ex situ ) population.

Due to our research and commitment to animal health and welfare, 124 giant panda cubs have been born to our Base in 85 litters, 88 survived and now we have 83. To assist other institutions holding giant pandas we provide technical support and send our experts to assist with care, rearing, and breeding. So that all giant panda researchers can share their knowledge, we host the Giant Panda Annual Technical Meeting, inviting researchers from all over the world to share information to improve captive management for the conservation of giant pandas.

The Chengdu Panda Base covers an area of 106 hectares and will be enlarged to 200 hectares during the third phase of our expansion. Red pandas, golden monkeys and other wild and/or endangered species live and breed here.

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"TO TRAVEL IS TO DISCOVER THAT EVERYONE IS WRONG ABOUT OTHER COUNTRIES."
- ALDOUS HUXLEY-

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       RAJA AMPAT             

      Here it is the most popular tourist attractions throughout the year 2011. All people talk about Raja Ampat, Papua. Touted for its natural beauty God's handiwork. Wayag, the cluster of volcanic rock sticking out of the ocean, believed to be more beautiful than Vietnam's Halong Bay. If what is in the sea is enchanting you, wait until you dive into the clear blue ocean in Raja Ampat. Coral reefs with a variety of beautiful marine life, will make you fall in love.

Komodo National Park

         The world's largest lizard, this is also a magnet for tourists all over the world to come there. But the Park is not just selling a giant lizard. Under water, the beauty of this place also recognized the traveler. Diving spots around the Komodo National Park, has recognized its charm. Komodo Island memilihi many interesting diving points. Beginning of Sebayour Small, Small and Middle Island Red Beach there are many underwater attractions such diverse mackerel, cod and grouper. On Red Beach, not far from the beach, there are also many dive sites on the west coast of Flores as, Tatawa Island, Small Tatawa Island, Rinca and Nusa Island Node.

 Yogyakarta

         If another tourist attractions offer natural selling,  Yogyakarta selling culture. The city is really interesting because the combination of the traveler Ngayogyakarta, Jalan Malioboro and famous place in the evening enjoyable. Everything you feel with our five senses in the city where the ruling Sultan Hamengkubuwono X is, is worth it for a vacation experience. Yogya is a typical atmosphere, you can not find in other places. Yogyakarta offers a special holiday experience for 24 hours. Of blangkon to batik, from bakpia until warm. It's never enough to talk Yogyakarta. Bonus for you are the temple of Borobudur and Prambanan, which is also visited by tourists who vacation in Yogyakarta. After the holidays there, you must admit these words: Jogja is very Special.

  Lake Toba

           Lake Toba offers many interesting attractions, such as nature tourism, spiritual, historical, architectural and culinary. The atmosphere is cool and refreshing successfully invite the tourists to come to this place. No words can describe the beauty of the charm of the second largest lake in the world. Lake Toba is not messing around tourist areas, it is the former world's largest super. History records of Lake Toba in North Sumatra was once a hugevolcano, aka super. Toba is predicted even as geo park sites in Indonesia. Samosir Island alone there are about 35 geosite, one of which is 300 year old stone at the foot of Mount Pusuk Buhi.

           
Tanjung Puting

    Many activities can be be done in Tanjung Puting National Park, do not be surprised if many who speak of it as a complete tourist area. Here, you can see directly the activity of an orangutan. If it comes to Tanjung Puting National Park, feeling one with nature will infiltrates into the soul of every visitor, plus a look at an orangutan rehabilitation center. Not only that, Tanjung nipple also offer a sport that trigger adrenaline, such as jungle tracking and river cruising on the River Sekonyer. TNTP is also a paradise for bird lovers you. You can make observations through Lake Tubes and River Birds.

Bali Island                            

        Bali, a magical island, is the top tourist attraction of an Indonesian trip as it is full of amazing sites and memorable experiences that will last you a lifetime. Popularly called the Paradise of the Earth, Bali has sunny and sandy beaches, active volcanoes, and tropical jungles full of exotic wildlife, entertaining festivals full of fun and much more. Tourist attractions include scuba diving, water sports, boating, swimming, hiking and golf.

Bali is famous for its craftsmanship including leather painting, sculpture, metal working and dance. Hindu temples in Bali are a major tourist attraction with their ancient and unique architecture. In Denpasar there are numerous temples. Beautiful white coral beaches like Sanur Beach and Kuta Beach are major tourist attractions with facilities for tourists including resorts, important hotels, shopping centers and many other activities.

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 Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Teetering 23 meters over the Atlantic, a light rope bridge links Carrick-a-Rede island to mainland Northern Ireland. Watch seabirds including fulmars, kittywakes, and guillemots wheel and dive above and below, and be prepared for some dizziness as you look across at Rathlin Island and Scotland! The bridge is connected to the main road via a short coastal footpath, which offers excellent viewing points of the breath-taking local scenery

  

Guinness  Storehouse

South of the Liffey, much of James Street, west of the old city, is centred around the colossal complex of the Guinness Brewery. Founded by Arthur Guinness in 1759, the Guinness Brewery initially manufactured ale, but in the 1770s started making porter, a drink so named because of its popularity with the porters of London’s markets. Arthur’s new brew, whose distinctive black colouring derived from the addition of roasted barley to the brewing process, found such favour that by 1796 it was being exported to London, and three years later ale production ceased altogether. From that point, Guinness and his successors never looked back and, at its peak in the middle of the twentieth century, their brewery produced some 2,500,000 pints of their now eponymous product a day.

The brewery is sadly not open to the public, but instead you can visit the seven-storey Guinness Storehouse, signposted from Crane Street, a high-tech temple to the black stuff. Its self-guided tour kicks off with the brewing process – a whirl of water (not from the Liffey, despite the myth) and a reek of barley, hops and malt – before progressing to the storage and transportation areas. A huge barrel dominates the section on the lost art of coopering, and nearby there’s an engine from the brewery’s old railway system. The remainder of the tour consists of an array of marketing memorabilia, supported by plenty of facts and figures about the Guinness empire, and there’s a gallery on John Gilroy, an esteemed painter who designed many of the company’s advertisements. Right at the top of the tower is the Gravity Bar, where you can savour your complimentary pint of perhaps the best Guinness in Dublin while absorbing the superb panorama of the city and the countryside beyond.   DUBLIN

Most of Dublin’s attractions are contained within a relatively compact area, spreading either side of the many-bridged River Liffey, which divides the city between its Northside and Southside. These have very distinct characters, defined over the city’s historical development: stereotypically, the south is viewed in terms of its gentility while the north is seen as brash and working class, home of the true Dub accent. Pre-eminent among the city’s historic sights is Trinity College, whose main draw for visitors is the glorious Book of Kells. From here, the city’s main commercial street, Grafton Street, marches off towards St Stephen’s Green, home to the rococo splendours of Newman House. Among the stylish Georgian streets to the east of Grafton Street, meanwhile, you’ll find the compelling displays of the National Gallery and the National Museum. On the west side of Trinity begins Temple Bar, which somehow manages to remain the city’s hub for both carousing and art, overlooked sternly by Dublin Castle, British headquarters in Ireland until 1921 and now home to the glorious collections of the Chester Beatty Library. Dublin’s two historic cathedrals, Christ Church and St Patrick’s, stand to the west of here.

 Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience
The Cliffs of Moher is Ireland’s most visited natural attraction with a magical vista that captures the hearts of up to 1 million visitors each year. The Cliffs rise up to 214 (700 feet) at the highest point and range for 8km over the Atlantic Ocean on the Western seaboard of Co. Clare.The Cliffs is a Special Protected Area under the EU birds Directive 1979 and is home to Ireland's largest mainland seabird nesting colony. The historic O'Brien's Tower (1825) stands near the highest point of the Cliffs of Moher and boasts views of 5 counties on a clear day. Opened in 2007, the eco-friendly visitor centre operates using environmental best practices with a state of the art Cliffs exhibition.

Belfast Botanic Garden

Belfast Botanic Garden used to be a public park during the period 1828-1895. It is a Victorian heritage with the gorgeous vast rose garden, oaks planted in the distant 1880 and herbaceous borders. The Palm House, an iron glasshouse, was designed by Charles Lanyon. Tropical Ravine is an illustrative example of horticultural Victoriana where you can enjoy the view of the various plants in the sunken glen from a balcony. The dome area is a home for many temperate and tropical plants. What also contributes to the Belfast Botanic Garden's reputation as a meeting spot for tourists and citizens are the children's playgrounds and charming pathways. The area functions as a concert place, as well.

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LA CONCHA
It is the beach of the provincial capital. It is a fantastic urban beach which has all the necessary services and infrastructures. For the little one, platforms have been set up in the sea with small aquatic attractions. Its pleasant, well-known promenade is always popular as is the bicycle lane which follows the same route. It extends along the whole length of the bay, travelling along the beaches of Ondarreta and La Concha. This beach has lovely views of Monte Igeldo and Santa Clara island.

  EL ESCORIAL
In the heart of the Guandarrama mountain range, only 50 kilometers from Madrid, stands the town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. Mount Abantos, its pine forests and the Herreria estate from the natural surroundings of this place, which has its focal point in the Monastery of El Escorial. Its urban layout is composed of a harmonious collection of ancestral homes in the Herrera style, with rationalist avenues and small squares in an earlier style. Nestling in the Madrid mountains, it offers a great many leisure opportunities and cultural routes, such as those which take the visitors to Avila, Segovia, Toledo or Madrid.

 CITY OF ARTS AND SCIENCE
The City of Arts and Science is an impressive symbol of modern and futuristic architecture in Valencia. This huge entertainment complex is situated in a close proximity to the port of Valencia and it is probably the most interesting modern attraction in Valencia. The City of Arts and Science includes a number of buildings, such as the Planetarium, where you can come across an Imax Cinema, a laser light show, a planetarium, of course, and other interesting facilities. Not to mention that this is only one of the major constructions within the "City" that is famous for its unique architecture. Well, if you prefer more water than stars, then enjoy a walk to the beautiful oceanographic park, which is another captivating attraction in the City of Arts and Science.

PLAZA DE AYUNTAMIENTO

Right in the heart of Valencia is situated the famous Plaza de Ayuntamiento. This is the largest square in Valencia and it has a triangular shape, while the tip of the park is separated by a large roadway. However, exactly the tip of the park (the northern side) is one of the most beautiful areas to enjoy a relaxing hour on a bench, for example. Even just going through the square, you will be captivated by a large round fountain and picturesque multi-coloured gardens. The lowest (southern side) of the square is best for taking photos, because on the one side is situated the City Hall building with its impressive facades, towers, windows and a central clock tower. This is a truly irresistible sight to take a few stunning photos, especially at twilight, when the night lights of the City Hall are gorgeously blended to the green trees along the square and the infinite turquoise sky.

LASAGRADA FAMILIA

This is Barcelona's most famous tourist attraction with over 3 million visitors a year- It is one of the most famous buildings in the world and a definite must-see - at least from the outside. It was designed by legendaryCatalan architecht Antoni Gaudi, over 100 years ago. In 2012 the splendid interior was finally completed and opened to the public. The original foundation stone was laid in 1882 when the area was mostly fields and goats. The hope is that construction will be finished in 2026 for the 100th anniversary of Gaudi's death in 1926. When Gaudi died in 1926 only a small part had been erected. Gaudi knew it would take a long time to build such a lavish temple. He famously once said, "My boss is not in a hurry." Not everyone likes La Sagrada. The famous British author George Orwell, who fought in Spain's civil war, hated it. He called the Sagrada Familia “the ugliest building on earth." It is unusual and unique but most visitors adore it

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"IT ALWAYS RAINS ON TENTS. RAINSTORMS WILL TRAVEL THOUSANDS OF MILES, AGAINST PREVAILING WINDS FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO RAIN ON A TENT."

-DAVE BARRY-

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 UNIVERSAL STUDIO           
Universal Studios Singapore is located in the Resort World Sentosa, which includes the Integrated Resort has just opened officially in April of 2010. Each set foot in the various zones, you will experience a different feel. Universal Studios Singapore is divided into 7 zones, Madagascar, the Palace of Far Far Away from the world of Shrek was the first in the world, The Lost World where you can find a world of dinosaurs and Waterworld, Ancient Egypt - a world full of ancient Egyptian mummies, Sci-fi - a futuristic city and the last two zones of the theme of a famous city in America that is Hollywood and New York. Universal Studio singapore become the top tourist attractions of Singapore.

 SINGAPORE ZOO
Singapore Zoo is one of the major tourist attractions in Singapore. Supplemented by thousands of rare animals make kids would love to see the uniqueness of each animal that they had never seen their lifetime. At the time the sun began to set, you can enjoy a different atmosphere at the Night Safari. Singapore Zoo also provides a vehicle for children's play Rainforest Kidzworld. Wave of lively children waiting in the water play area, with themes such as wildlife parks wet dream! For the game more exciting, young and old can ride to the animal-themed carousel.

FLIGHT EXPERIENCES

Taste it ride or drive a Boeing 737-800NG aircraft the world's most popular and most successful aircraft - you can feel the flight with an experienced instructor who will help you through all aspects of aviation. With more than 20,000 airports around the world in a data bank and a full 180 degrees of visual and most advanced cockpit and the sound quality is very similar to the original sound truly unforgettable experience.The glass enclosed Singapore flyer rotates on a massive Ferris wheel design to give you a 360-degree view of the country with breathtaking views of skylines and landscapes in the world's tallest observation tower.

 MARINA BAY SANDS
Marina Bay Sands is one of the two Integrated Resort in Singapore's new in the open in 2010. After the Resort World Sentosa first operation in early April 2010. Marina Bay Sands is located in the Marina Bay area, joined with Singapore icons that had already stood up like a statue of the Merlion, Esplanade and Singapore Flyer. Marina Bay Sands has very complete facilities. Guaranteed you can find all you need to be available in this place without having to get out of this region such as casino, sand sky park, hotel, restaurant, cafe there is also a Food Kiosk that provides local flavor from the chicken rice, curry Indian team and sum up western-style roast chicken and sandwiches. In addition, the Marina Bay resort is a paradise for the shopaholic. Equipped with a luxury shopping centers are also a variety of world-class retailers and restaurants make this place is the biggest luxury shopping mall in Singapore.

  SCIENCE CENTRE
For young scientists and future science and technology experts, the Singapore Science Centre has been recognized that this world will surely stimulate your brain with over 850 interactive rides that describe the wonders and beauty of science. Hours: Science Centre (10.00 am to 18:00 pm); Omni-Theatre (10:00 am to 20:00 pm). Closed on Monday except holidays and school holidays.

 SINGAPORE FLYER This is the world's largest Ferris current, high reached 165 meters. Offers you a breathtaking 360 ° panoramic view of Singapore and the region (opening early 2008). Located in Marina Bay, this vehicle is next to the Retail Terminal has three levels, with a wide selection of shops and food outlets. There is a central atrium that leads to a lush tropical forest, and an outdoor theater that will be a stage show.

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"TRAVELING IS A BRUTALITY. IT FORCES YOU TO TRUST STRANGERS AND TO LOSE SIGHT OF ALL THAT FAMILIAR COMFORT OF HOME AND FRIENDS. YOU ARE CONSTANTLY OFF BALANCE. NOTHING IS YOURS EXCEPT THE ESSENTIAL THINGS - AIR,SLEEP,DREAMS,THE SEA,THE SKY- ALL THINGS TENDING TOWARDS THE ETERNAL OR WHAT WE IMAGINE OF IT"

CESARE PAVESE

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THE EIFFEL TOWER

The Eiffel Tower has been the background for thousands of photos, movies and television shows from around the world as well. Every few decade, it seems that it is involved in publicity stunts. It has been scaled by a mountaineer, people have parachuted from it, and once someone rode a bicycle down from the first level. As the symbol of Paris, the Eiffel Tower has a rich and colorful history, with a beauty and engineering which have withstood the test of time. Little wonder it attracts over 6 million visitors each year and why it is a universally recognized landmark. No trip to Europe can be considered complete without a stop at the Eiffel Tower, and probably few structures in the world have been photographed as often as this Parisian masterpiece!

GORGE DU VERDON
The Gorges du Verdon or the Verdon Gorge is one of the most attractive places to visit in south-eastern France. This is a river canyon which can be considered as one of nature’s finest works of art and is formed by the Verdon River. The entire canyon spans at approximately twenty-five kilometers long and goes down to about seven hundred meters in depth. When a person stands on one edge and looks at the entire place, they will be able to see how marvelous nature is. But it does not stop there. The Verdon Gorge has much more to offer its visitors. In between the span of the entire gorge lies five dams which hold back the water from five reservoirs. This is a very famous tourist destination in France, and those who wish to drive around to appreciate the view can use the roads surrounding the rim of the gorge. Apart from rock climbing and hiking, other sports such as canoeing, rafting and paragliding are also being offered to visitors.

                                                           Mont Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is connected to the mainland via a thin natural land bridge, which before modernization was covered at high tide and revealed at low tide, giving the mount a mystical quality. The tides in the area shift quickly, and has been described by Victor Hugo as à la vitesse d'un cheval au galop, "as swiftly as a galloping horse." The tide actually comes in at 1 meter per second. Popularly nicknamed "St. Michael in Peril of the Sea" by medieval pilgrims making their way across the tidal flats, the mount can still pose dangers for visitors who avoid the causeway and attempt the hazardous walk across the sands from the neighboring coast. The dangers from the tides and quick sands continue to claim lives.After visiting the arcaded cloisters alongside, which offer vertiginous views of the bay, you can wander at leisure, and probably get lost, among the maze of rooms, staircases, and vaulted halls that make up the abbey.  DISNEY LAND
It might be an ocean away from the other Disney parks, but Disneyland Paris looks, tastes, and feels like the ones in California and Florida -- except this fairy-tale château belongs to Belle au Bois Dormant instead of Cinderella, and Mickey might greet you with a friendly bonjour! The controversy over the opening of Disneyland Paris in 1992 has long been forgotten, and the resort has surpassed the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre to become France's number-one tourist attraction -- drawing a whopping 50 million visitors annually. Take a day to get your fill of thrills at the main park or two to enjoy the full Disney atmosphere and movie action at the Walt Disney Studios.

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"I TRAVEL NOT TO GO ANYWHERE, BUT TO GO. I TRAVEL FOR TRAVEL'S SAKE. THE GREAT AFFAIR IS TO MOVE."

ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON

iixii_THE WORLD'S MOST RELIGIOUS CITIES_iixii

 MECCA , Saudi Arabia

Mecca (Makkah) in western Saudi Arabia is Islam's holiest city.  Mecca (Makkah) is the birthplace of Mohammad and the place he returned to after his exile to Medina. Five times a day more than one billion Muslims around the world turn towards it to pray to Allah.

 As a result, it is the holiest city in Islam. Every year, millions of Muslims make a religious pilgrimage to Mecca on the eighth through thirteenth days of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Muslim year.  This journey, called the Hajj, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.  All Muslims are expected to make this journey at least once in their lifetime if they are physically and financially able.  Participants in the Hajj join an enormous crowd; plans must be made many months - even years - in advance before participating in the Hajj..  

Lhasa , Tibet

Lhasa literally translates to “place of the gods.” The city was the home of the Dalai Lamas, political leaders of Tibet and religious leaders of Tibetan Buddhism, from the 1600’s until the Chinese invaded and the 14th Dalai Lama fled into exile in 1959. Today you’ll find the Tibetans a minority of the population compared to the Chinese.Lhasa has many sites that are of historical significance including Jokhang Temple, Norbulingka and the Potala Palace, which are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites; and Sera and Drepung Monasteries, and Zhefeng Temple.Over one million people go to Tibet each year. You’ll often see the devout pilgrims in Lhasa kneeling or lying prone with their foreheads on the ground. These pilgrims will be trying to gain spiritual merit by following one of the three concentric pathways that go inside or around Johkhang Temple.                                                           

Varanasi, India

Varanasi City or Benaras is India’s cultural capital, which has been the major pilgrimage destination for Hindus since ages. It is world’s oldest living city and its origins are still not well known. Devotees strongly believe that Ganges River in Varanasi City has the ability to take away the wrongdoings of humankind.

History of Varanasi Varanasi is featuring as an imperative secular centerpiece and focal point of education all the way through history, Varanasi has a long and mesmerizing past. Said to be the just the once domicile of the God Shiva, the city is an imperative pilgrimage centre for Hindus, evidenced by the hundreds of temples and the bring up of the city in the prehistoric Hindu epics Mahabharata and Ramayana.     

Vatican, City                                                  

Tucked in the center of Rome, Italy, this small country is only 110 acres and has a population of just 900 people, but as far as being a religious location, it is huge. It is home to the central authority of the Roman Catholic Church and the residence of all Popes since 1377.Once upon a time (37-41 AD), the area was the site of the Circus of Nero, and the tall obelisk you see standing outside of St. Peter’s Basilica is a remnant from those days. Legend has it that it was in this circus that Saint Peter was crucified upside down. Many other Christians were also martyred here. Up until the 4th century, when the Basilica was constructed, the area was a prominent place for funeral monuments, mausoleums and altars of pagan gods.At one time the church ruled a large portion of the Italian peninsula, but in the mid-19th century the Papal States were seized by the new kingdom of Italy.  A bit of unrest ensued between Italy and the church, but finally in the 1900’s Mussolini signed a treaty between Italy and the Holy See allowing Vatican City to exist in the way you see today.There is a lot to see in Vatican City, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Library, the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museum, which house incredible works of art by Michelangelo, Bernini, Botticelli and Raphael.

 .Haifa, Israel
Haifa (Hebrew Hefa) is a city in northwest Israel overlooking a bay on the Mediterranean Sea. It has been compared by some to the similarly-situated cities of San Francisco or Naples. A ferry service runs between Haifa and Athens. Israel's third largest city, Haifa is a major industrial center and has a population of almost 300,000. According to a popular Israeli saying, "Tel Aviv plays while Jerusalem prays. But Haifa works!" Like most of Israel, Haifa has been populated since ancient times. Elijah is the city's most famous early inhabitant; here he meditated in a cave before defeating the priests of Baal. In April 22, 1948, the Arabs of Haifa surrendered to Israeli forces and the town remains under Israeli rule today. Most of Haifa's Arab inhabitants left after this, but the town still retains a cosmopolitan mixture of Muslim Arabs, Christian Arabs, and Baha'is. Haifa has several important religious sites and attracts many pilgrims and tourists alike each year

Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City is the state capital and largest city in Utah. Founded in 1847 by religious leader Brigham Young, the city is the world headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons). From its early days as a mining and railroad town, Salt Lake City has emerged as the commercial and cultural hub for a large area of the western mountain region. The city recently played host to the 2002 Winter Olympics. The nearby mountains, historical and religious landmarks, and the uniqueness of the Great Salt Lake also make the city a prominent tourist attraction.

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"WE TRAVEL,SOME OF US FOREVER, TO SEEK OTHER STATES, OTHER LIVES,OTHER SOULS."