1594 Search Results for "down"

• Before sitting down to dinner, Before sitting down to dinner, travellers can relax in the on train bar and lounge

  • From: seogaurav
  • Description:

    The word 'Luxury' starts and ends at Palace on Wheels only. The train is regarded as one of the revered luxury trains not only in India but in the whole world. It is rated as the 4th best luxury train all across the globe. The luxury train was designed keeping in mind the erstwhile kings and rulers of the country who used to travel in such types of railway coaches for nuptial sojourn, hunting trip and occasion of state tours. The train is a joint venture between Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) and Indian Railways, which started its operation in the year 1982. It is equipped with traditional treatments yet all modern amenities and services. The train will help you exploring Rajasthan and its famous tourists' destinations like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Chittorgarh, Jodhpur, Sawai Madhopur, and Bharatpur. The whole sojourn will be of 7 nights and 8 days, which will commence from Delhi and weaves through Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur, and Agra and finally ends the sojourn at Delhi itself.

  • 2 weeks ago
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• Havasu Creek Havasu Creek

  • From: Meriam
  • Description:

    Havasu Creek is a great place for a hike and a swim with its red canyon walls, beautiful vistas at every turn, and the blue-green water inviting you in to play.  This picture was taken on a 7-day rafting trip down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon with awesome guides from Arizona River Runners.

  • 2 weeks ago
  • Views: 352

• Sunrise at Haleakala Sunrise at Haleakala

  • From: woobiecat1
  • Description:

    On Maui, one of the best things to do is to get up before 3 a.m. and drive to the top of the volcano at Haleakala and watch sunrise.  It is over 10,000 feet above sea level and every mile up is on a curved , hairpin road, but it is worth the effort. It is spectacular. Sunrise is greeted by a crowd of people and a beautiful song sung by a native Hawaiian. When you drive back down in the daylight, you see the beautiful views and the drop-offs on the sides of the road that you just came up in the dark.

  • 1 month ago
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• Unique Traditional Tibetan Foo Unique Traditional Tibetan Foods

  • From: tibettravel
  • Description:

    The distinctive environment of Tibet produces unique traditional Tibetan foods that can only be tasted in Tibet. It is said that you have never been to Tibet if you haven't ever tasted Tibetan food. Tourists to Tibet will firstly check the unique Tibetan food when travel to Tibet. Tibetan main foods are Tsampa (Zan Ba), pea, horsebean, milk sediments, meats and milk products. Tibetan like eat air-dry beef, mutton. The major drinks in Tibet (Lhasa) are ghee tea, pure tea, sweet tea, fresh milk and Chang. Especially the Tsampa, ghee, tea, cow and sheep meat are reputed as "four treasures in Tibetan dining". If you make a tour to Tibet, do not miss the delicious highland food. Traditional Tibetan food uses roasted barley flour, yak meat, milk, cheese, yoghurt and butter. This diet sustains those living at high altitude and the extreme conditions of the high plateau as little vegetation grows there. In contrast, the diet of those living in the Tibetan Himalayan foothills, where a wide range of fruit and vegetables are cultivated, is more varied. There is an abundance of wild herbs and mushrooms which are commonly used in Traditional Tibetan medicine and also used in cooking Tibetan food. Due to Tibet's distance from the sea and, more importantly, a deep rooted belief in limiting the killing of sentient beings, fish and seafood are not widely used. In some areas of Tibet, Tibetan people even do not eat fish as they regard fish as the incarnation of the god of water or due to the fear of its bone getting stuck in the throat. Whatever, travelers are kindly required to respect local Tibetan customs during Tibet tour. Tsampa Tsampa is one of the stable foodstuffs in Tibet and very important to Tibetan. It is rich in nutrition and has large heat which is suitable for allaying hunger and keeping out cold. Generally, Tibetan people eat Tsampa every day and every meals. As the Tsampa is very simple to prepare, it is a convenient food for Tibetan, especially the herds such as sherpas, nomads and other nomadic people in Tibet. The Tsampa is made of highland barley, a kind of cereal crops. With abundant nourishments and outstanding curative and health care function, highland barley is the main material of making Tsampa. The barley flour usually mixed with salty Tibetan butter tea. Tsampa is goluptious, crisp and sweet. Tibetan people like to have Tsampa assistant with dishes, butter tea and capsicum. When eating Tsampa, Tibetan people would put some butter tea at the bottom of the bowl and put some barley flour, then stir gently with the forefinger and knead with the hand. When you make a Lhasa tour, you can go to a sweet tea house in Lhasa, order a cup of sweet tea and some Tsampa, sit down to enjoy the food as local people do. Tibetan Sausage Tibetan Sausage was created by Tibetan nomads more than 1000 years ago. The main method to make Tibetan sausage is to prime different materials into the fresh animal guts such as sheep, pig or cow. When put the stuffing into the intestines, people will put some assistant ingredients such as salt, pepper powder, chopped ginger and so on. The Tibetan sausages can be either steamed or roasted and then cut into slices to eat. Tibetan usually make this food in batches during new-year time. The Tibetan sausage taste fresh and goluptious and not oily, which is a nice cold dish. Then it can be stored for about one year. Therefore, you can buy some Tibetan sausage and take back home when you travel to Tibet. According to different materials, the sausage can be divided into several categories. The sausage filling with sheep blood called Blood Sausage; and the one that stuffed with dogmeat named Meat Sausage; sausage which is filled with flour paste and edible oil is called Four Sausage; the one mainly filled with sheep fat together with some chopped meat named Oil Sausage; sausage stuffed with chopped animal liver called Liver Sausage.

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  • 1 month ago
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• Top Biking Adventures in Vietn Top Biking Adventures in Vietnam

  • From: acitvetraveasia
  • Description:
    As a country with every terrain imaginable, Vietnam offers a memorable bicycling adventure for any and all peddlers, regardless of experience or condition. The flat expanse of the Mekong Delta grows to rugged mountains in the central expanse and then blends into the widest variety of difficulty north near Hanoi.
    Traffic and Bicycle Laws
    Along with standard laws like not causing traffic problems by racing or zigzagging, Vietnam has few laws targeted specifically toward the bicyclist. It is important to remember not to carry cumbersome loads, carry children over age seven with you or ride more than two abreast. No sort of helmet or lighting is required, but bicyclists are not allowed to ride with open umbrellas. One can only guess what happened to make this law.
    Common Trips
    For those interested in adventure and active trips, there are some routes that will take you through and explore the backcountry while providing some modicum of modern amenities. ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA_one of the travel companies offering cycling tours in Indochina_ is received good reviews of adventure travelers.

    Biking Mekong Delta

    The easiest of these is around the Mekong Delta. With a terrain nearly devoid of any rise, these trips are easier, but by no means less scenic, than the others. Traveling through the expanse of rice paddies dotted with the occasional copse of trees, the rider will be joined by children cycling to or from school or women returning from the market. People in the villages will be pleasantly surprised to see a foreigner riding into town and a circuit from Ho Chi Minh to any of the surrounding villages is an easy ride. With the flat terrain and abundance of villages it is easy to take a trip of any length, whether only a day or two weeks, a rider can tour without backtracking.

    Biking Mai chau, Hoa Binh province

    The northern area allows for more wooded scenery while still allowing for easier trips. For the more adventurous, the northern area provides a greater degree of difficulty through the hills surrounding Hanoi. This trip offers a great opportunity to see the two area of outstanding nature beauty; the North West highlands of Mai Chau and the limestone mountains of Ninh Binh. Biking is a great way to see this fascinating and visually stunning part of Vietnam, offering both physical activity and the unique opportunity to observe a way of life that has changed little over the centuries. As we ride in Mai Chau we encounter Muong and White Thai minorities and are guests in their traditional stilt houses allowing us to see firsthand how these minority peoples live. In Ninh Binh we explore the beauty of “Halong Bay on the rice fields” on bikes.

    Biking Ho Chi Minh trail

    A new trip for the adventurous would be along the historical Ho Chi Minh trail. The so-called Ho Chi Minh Trail is one of the most renowned legends of the American War. The complicated road system winds along the Truong Son Range, which that facilitated movement of soldiers and war supplies from North Vietnam to battlefields in South Vietnam. Now the historic trail is being turned into a highway and hotels and towns are springing up speedily beside it. The route is incredibly beautiful with new mountain views around every corner, very little traffic, and virtually no tourists.
    Weather
    Weather in Southeast Asia is a big consideration and it is recommended to go from Late September to December or March to late May. The weather in the southern area of Vietnam stays warm and humid averaging 26°C with its rainy season from June to September. BE WARNED: Vietnam sees monsoonal rains starting in June, peaking in August and tapering down in September. This season varies depending on location; Hanoi in the north generally has a rainy season that peaks earlier while Ho Chi Minh City may not see its rains slack until early October. Vietnam, especially central Vietnam, often floods and can hold up a trip for a week before the waters recede.
    The hot season will see temperatures averaging 30°C, with the south staying warm all year round and the north seeing winter trends averaging 15°C. Depending on the time of year, it would be advisable to take a jacket to keep off the chill, especially if riding in the highlands, and a hat to protect against the sun.
    Other Considerations
    Visas must be applied for at least six months prior to entry date. Tourist visas are granted for one month, but may be extended after arrival in Vietnam, and only allow one entry into the country. Tourists must fill out arrival/departure papers and declaration papers, keeping both with the passport at all times. It is also recommended having a few extra passport-size photos with you as local authorities may request these and it is always a good idea to stay on the good side of authorities.
    With over two-thirds of its roads unpaved and those paved roads sporting an abundance of potholes, the road conditions almost require a mountain bike. 
    The lush landscapes and warm hospitality provide anyone with a good biking tour of Vietnam. Take the time to look around and smell the proverbial “roses”.
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  • 1 month ago
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• Different types of Tibet Tours Different types of Tibet Tours

  • From: tibettravel
  • Description:

    Tibet is a mysterious tourist place that can meet all kinds of tourists’ interests. If you are interested in exotic culture, travel to Tibet. If you are interested in natural sightseeing, travel to Tibet. If you are interested in outdoor activities, travel to Tibet. If you are interested in different life styles, travel to Tibet. If you want to enjoy a hot spring bath and relax yourself, travel to Tibet…Travel to Tibet 2013, you can enjoy different types of Tibet tours.

     

    Tibet Culture Tour

     

    Tibet culture tour will take you to experience the unique and rich Tibetan culture which is inseparably linked to Tibetan Buddhism. Over the last 1,000 years, Tibet has developed a unique, spiritual and peaceful culture with Buddhism. Tibetan monasteries bear Tibetan culture. Thus, visiting monasteries in Tibet is the best way to experience Tibetan culture.

     

    There are many famous monasteries in Tibet, such as Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery, Drepung Monastery and Ganden Monastery in Lhasa, Samye Monastery in Tsedang, Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse and Sakya Monastery in Sakya. You may see interesting ritual ceremony at a monastery or ancient

     

    Tibet Scenery Viewing Tour  

     

    If you are a lover of nature and wanna have a date with nature, make a Tibet tour plan right now. Tibet is a beautiful place with breathtaking blue sky, white clouds, alpine lakes, snow-capped mountains, stunning river valleys, vast grasslands, ancient forests, etc. When you travel in Tibet, you can find beautiful sights everywhere.

     

    Tibet Pilgrimage Tour

     

    If you are a follower of Tibetan Buddhism or just wanna make a spiritual journey, Tibet is also a right place for you. You can travel to Tibet and do ritual walks around a divine mountain, a sacred lake or a holy temple as local people do, or meditate in a monastery or hermitage cave. In fact, once you are in Tibet, you will feel peace and calm down for you are in a peaceful world with peaceful people.

     

    Tibet Photography Tour

     

    If you are a photographer, the fabulous and various landscape of Tibet offers you lots of chance to take good pictures, beautiful holy lakes, snow-capped mountains, magnificent glaciers, vast grassland dotted with herds and nomads, boundless primeval forest, etc. You can get prefect picture no matter when and where you go.

     

    Tibet Trekking Tour

     

    Trekking in Tibet is good way to explore Tibet. You can see the sight other travelers cannot see and get an experience you cannot get at other places. The inaccessibility of most areas of Tibet makes lost of chance for trekking, such as Ganden to Samye trek, Tsurphu to Yangpachen trek, Tingri to EBC trek.

     

    So, are you ready to travel to Tibet? Remember, Tibet permit is a must for you to get to Tibet. But do not worry! The policy on Tibet travel permit 2013 makes it is quite easy to get a Tibet permit in 2013. What you should do is to prepare documents to apply for it. Copies of your passport and Chinese visa are needed to apply for Tibet permit.  

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  • 1 month ago
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• Kirby's Mill Kirby's Mill

  • From: biglannie
  • Description:

    Kirby's Mill

    
    In 1773, Isaac Haines and others petitioned the General Assembly to permit the building of a dam to power a gristmill and sawmill. It is said that the workmen building the mill could hear the roar of the cannons during the battles at Redbank, now a National Park, near Gloucester. The gristmill was completed and in operation by the spring of 1778.The brick house, referred to as the "Miller's House," located across the millrace, was built by Nehemiah Haines about 1785. His son Charles inherited the mill and enlarged it from its original single story structure to a three story structure in about 1830. The blacksmith shop and a small barn were built at about this same time.
    
    William S. Kirby bought the mill complex in 1877 and again changes were made. In the next few years the roof was lifted adding a fourth floor. Another major change was the removal of the water wheel to be replaced by several more efficient water turbines.
    
    It was in this era that the complex was at the height of productivity. The sawmill was, kept busy sawing logs for shipment not only' to local lumber yards but also to Philadelphia and Baltimore buyers. The gristmill was producing wheat flour, buckwheat and rye flour, along with cornmeal and chicken feed. The flour which was produced here was of very good quality and was much in demand by bakeries along the east coast.
    
    By World War I more modern machinery had replaced the millstones and the mill stopped producing flour in the 1920's and concentrated more on livestock feed. The sawmill finally shut down because of the lack of local timber. The blacksmith and wheelwright shop closed down with the coming' of the automobile. The gristmill stayed in operation under water power until 1961 when, because of low water and mechanical problems, it was converted. to electricity. It was still in partial operation in 1969 when the Medford Historical Society purchased it from the Kirby Brothers. This mill was the last operating commercial mill in New Jersey.
    
    Source: Medford NJ Historical Society

  • 1 month ago
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• Plan Your Affordable Vacation Plan Your Affordable Vacation in Australia

  • From: enadowdy
  • Description:

    The Great Barrier Reef, Bondi Beach, the Opera House and the Outback.  There are so many natural and cultural wonders to be visited in Australia that tourism is booming for travel "down under".  If you have been planning your Australian vacation, we've got some great news for you. 

    Australia is experiencing a real growth in business, commerce and population.  It is great news for travellers who have always wanted to visit Australia as there are more flights available now than ever before, and more airlines competing with pricing and willing to take you there.  

    Depending where you are travelling from in North America, the flight to Australia is is about twenty hours.  Typically the airlines will stop in Vancouver Canada, then Japan and on to Australia.  Historically the cost has hovered around $2000 or more per person and part of the reason that travellers have hesitated in the past to fly to Australia is due to the length of the flight and also because of the cost.  But thanks to the increased demand for flights, it is possible to get cheap flights to Australia and book them conveniently online. 

    • Avoid direct flights.  While convenient (and available from some major cities on the west coast) they are the most costly. Direct flights can also be more exhausting for some travellers (can you commit to more than twenty hours on one flight?).  There are more comfortable and convenient options.

    • Most travellers will book stop-overs on their way to Australia.  Countries such as Dubai and Hong Kong are fabulous to visit on a one day stop over.  Not only does it give you the opportunity to rest from the flight but it also allows you to take in some of the exotic local flavour of other countries on your way.  It enriches your travel experience and will leave you refreshed and ready to take on the adventurous continent of Australia when you arrive.

    • Lastly if you are planning on travelling for a few weeks, explore the opportunity to  purchase an "around-the-world" ticket which leaves you free to visit other continents usually for the same price as a direct flight to Australia.   It literally opens a world of travel opportunity if you have the time and inclination to explore.

    When booking your travel to Australia (like other flights) the most economical rates will be for connecting flights that are also booked well in advance.  Since a trip to Australia is a more expensive vacation, plan at least two months ahead of time in order to get the best rates and choice availability for your flights.

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  • 2 months ago
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• Tips on biking to Angkor Wat Tips on biking to Angkor Wat

  • From: acitvetraveasia
  • Description:
    Having biked to Angkor myself, there are several things that I think could make your biking experience more enjoyable.
    
    

    
     
    1. Make sure you get the right type of bike for you
    
    
    This is probably the most important thing. I used one with multiple gears and a basket in the front. To me, these two things helped a lot during those tired moments on the road. 
    The gears let me go at my own pace and according to my energy level, while the basket in front took the load off my back. I put my backpack in the front and just looped it around the steering bars as a precaution. 
    2. Have an idea of what you want to see
    Considering the huge size of Angkor Archeological Park, you should pick and choose which temples you’d like to see. Trying to see many temples by tuktuk consumes a lot of energy, and it is doubly so when seeing many temples by bicycle. So know your limitations and be picky. It’s much better to enjoy the temples in leisure than to try and cram in everything with an already tired body.
    
    3. Bring extra clothes for changing
    
    
    Because you will no doubt sweat like you never have before. In addition to the actual physical exercise of biking, you will have the added factor of the famously hot Cambodian sun. Your clothes will most likely become drenched with sweat, and you should bring a change of clothes if that bothers you. There are many toilets scattered around the park that you can use to change.
    4. Bring enough water
    The keyword is enough, because there is no need to oversupply yourself with bottles of water when there are many Angkor vendors who sell them. Two small bottles of water run for $1, and if the shopkeepers take pity on you they will sell a big one for the same price. Things are a little bit more expensive in Angkor than in town, but you can bargain down as usual.
    5. Plan to have lunch in Angkor
    When people visit the temples by tuktuk, most of them go back to Siem Reap for lunch and siesta. If you are biking, consider spending your lunch time at the park, instead of biking to town and then back again to Angkor. 
    There are many cool places to have lunch: the temples, the Angkor Wat moat, or even the air conditioned restaurants. There are huge numbers of restaurants available, primarily near Angkor Wat and Bayon, with most offering Cambodian dishes. For a more Western fare, head to the Angkor Café right across Angkor Wat. They have pasta, sandwiches, ice cream, etc. 
    6. Visit the less popular places
    When going by tuktuk, the drivers already have a set plan and route. Trying to change that will most likely cost you additional dollars and create confusion. Biking is a great time to visit the less visited sites, because you can go wherever you want and stop whenever you want. Some places you might want to visit are the Angkor Thom gates or the Buddhist Wats in the area.
    7. Head to the temple in the morning, head back in the late afternoon.
    Biking in the morning when the sun is still mild is so enjoyable, and it doesn't have to be too early. 7 a.m. is a good time to start. Just know that by 10 a.m. or even 9 a.m., the sun will start to beat down hard. 
    In the late afternoon, at around 5 p.m., the sun will start to mellow and this would be a great time to head back to town. Everything (the temples, the tree lined roads, etc.) will look so pretty at this time. 
    Should you bike on your first visit to Angkor Wat?
    As a matter of personal choice, I think biking is a great way to see the Angkor temples, but I wouldn’t say it's a great way for first timers to see the temples. If it’s your first time visiting Angkor, going by tuktuk is, I think, your best choice. That way you will get to see more temples in a more relaxing way. 
    When your legs are already so tired from biking, you will be less likely to climb up the Phimeanakas temple or roam around the Prasat Suor Prats. This means you’ll miss out on some of the must-do temple activities. 
    But of course, the final decision whether to bike or not, first time or not, is entirely up to you.
    So in short…
    The whole point of biking to Angkor Wat is to enjoy it, which is why I think a good level of fitness is a must. 
    If you’re too tired to pedal and still have 15 kilometers more to go, you’re going to start ignoring the temples and start focusing on how to survive the day. This is fine, because that in itself is an interesting experience, but just know that the focus then will no longer be the temples, which is what you came halfway across the world for.
    Go to Angkor Wat, Cambodia - A Quick Review
    
    
    Angkor Wat, Cambodia is located near the town of Siem Reap. It's been listed under UNESCO's World Heritage site since 1992. Preservation has been done constantly in order to keep it in great condition. 
    Go to Siem Reap Tourist Attractions
    As the base town of Angkor Wat, Siem Reap tourism is growing rapidly. See for yourself the many activities you can do and the places you can see while staying in Siem Reap.
    Recommended Cambodia cycling tour by ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA
    
    
    Biking Angkor Wat
    This 3- days cycling tour brings you to explore Siem Reap in Cambodia, not only its highlighted Angkor Complex, but also small local villages, markets, pagodas, to have an opportunity to interact with local passers-by and immerse in Cambodian cultures.
    Highlights 
     
    • Beautiful cycling roads
    • Impressive Angkor Wat

     

    Details program are available here
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  • 2 months ago
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• Prague – Vienna Cycle Tour Prague – Vienna Cycle Tour

  • From: Bicycle_tours
  • Description:

    Last September I joined a cycle tour in the Czech Republic. The tour took us from Prague in Central Bohemia to the rolling hills and charming medieval and Renaissance towns of South Bohemia and then through the gently-sloping vineyards of South Moravia. Some riders then cycled on to Vienna, whilst others chose to return to Prague. For many non-Czechs the countryside of the Czech Republic is unknown, secret, and undiscovered. This tour is a wonderful opportunity to discover what lies beyond Prague, a city that is deservedly visited by millions of people every year.

     

    We were a very diverse group. Our party consisted of seven Australians, a British couple, a couple from Brazil, a New Zealander, an American, and our Czech guide, Jiri (George) and driver, Jindrich (Henry). And me – I’ve been living and working in Prague for six years, but I’ originally from London, UK. Age-wise, collectively we covered every decade from early thirties to (almost) seventy. As those who have been on tours like this before, there is a camaraderie amongst cyclists that transcends continents and ages.

     

    Our First Day:        Prague to Ceske Budejovice by mini-bus

                                Ceske Budejovice to Cesky Krumlov by bike

     

    After collecting everybody from their hotels on a quiet and overcast Prague Sunday morning, we group of strangers, soon to become brave companions of the trail, gathered together in the cellar meeting room of the tour company to introduce ourselves and to receive a full briefing. We were given a detailed itinerary for each day, a safety briefing and a small glass of slivovice (a local plum brandy that some people quite like).

     

    Then it was outside to hitch up the bike trailers to the mini-buses, check on helmets and water-bottles, and on to Ceske Budejovice. After a two and a half hour drive, we parked up in the city centre and everyone was allocated their bikes for the week. The bikes are already pre-selected for individual size, weight and experience by the company. Some people had brought their own pedals and these were quickly fitted by the ever-helpful staff.

     

    Ceske Budejovice is of course the home of the Czech Republic’s second most famous beer, Budvar or Budweiser. It is an old town with a lot of green spaces and a very large Renaissance square, where we took the first of many group photographs.

     

    We made our way through the town and down to the River Vltava (Moldau), the same river that runs through Prague. It was a great way to start, riding along the flat cycle path following the river to test out the comfort and settings of our bikes. After a while, we reached a rocky outcrop – our first hill! After climbing above the river, we coasted down a winding forest path to the small settlement and large monastery of Zlata Koruna (Golden Crown) founded in 1263. Here was a chance to stock up on a well-deserved bowl of soup and plate of sausage.

     

    After suitable refreshment, the last stage of the day’s short ride was down to the fairy-tale chocolate-box town of Cesky Krumlov, dominated by the second-largest castle in the country built on sheer rocks which rise up from the river. It is spectacularly beautiful and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.  George gave us a tour of the town, but sadly it was raining quite hard at this stage, so we were very glad to arrive at our hotel. The luggage had already been delivered to our rooms and we had time to freshen-up before dinner.

     

    Dinner was in a lovely medieval restaurant where the food was prepared on an open fire. We sat at long wooden tables and had a chance to get to know each other better. However, what really bonded our group together was the next stop in a lovely crowded pub with a piano player who took requests. I’d like to think that our lusty singing of old standards was enjoyed by the locals as much as it was by us.

     

    Kilometres cycled:   27

     

    Second Day:Cesky Krumlov to Trebon

     

    After a fine and hearty breakfast, we gathered in the courtyard of the hotel to reacquaint ourselves with our bikes and make some final adjustments to them. And so we set off. It’s a long climb out of the valley of Cesky Krumlov, nestled on a bend of the river, where in high summer canoeing and rafting are very popular. We rode along paved cycle tracks and forest paths before stopping at a village restaurant for lunch. It was quite a strenuous day’s cycling and some of our valiant company took respite in the mini-bus for the more hill sections. The mini-bus is never far-away and is stocked up with water, fruit and energy bars.

     

    I should add that the day was quite testing; not only because of the distance and terrain, but it was also quite cold and raining, so it did test the morale of the group. However, the week’s forecast was good and the outlook was for sunny weather. Some of us rode the mini-bus into Trebon, while others pressed on through the mud and rain to arrive later.

     

    After a welcome shower, we met for a meal in the hotel restaurant, which was served with élan and charm by our hosts. Some opted to take a walk around the town afterwards to take in the Renaissance square, the Marian column, the charming castle and a local hostelry to taste the renowned local brew.

     

    Kilometres cycled:   61

     

    Third Day:    Trebon to Telc

     

    Trebon has been the centre of the Czech fish industry for five centuries. Over this time many fish-ponds and man-made lakes have been developed to produce carp and other fish. Carp is a traditional Christmas meal in the Czech Republic. It is a flatter area of South Bohemia, so a good chance to get in some faster cycling along paved forest paths. It was raining lightly and misty but this added to the mystique of riding through the dark, silent pine forests of Central Europe. All very atmospheric, all very Brothers Grimm.

     

    After about 25 kilometres we left the woods and the land began to undulate through fields. We met up with Henry and the mini-bus for snacks and refreshments, and to mend a couple of punctures.

     

    We pushed on through the rain. This was the most gruelling day, the furthest to cycle, nearly 80 kilometres and the second two-thirds were fairly hilly. We stopped for lunch at a country pub-restaurant, but otherwise it was head-down and concentrate on getting to Telc and South Moravia.

     

    The town of Telc is another UNESCO World Heritage site. It has a breath-takingly beautiful and extensive square, consisting entirely of Renaissance buildings from the 16^th century, decorated in the typical brightly-coloured and sgraffitoed style of the time. It’s a great photo opportunity.

     

    We stayed in a very fine hotel not far from the main square, which had been a large farm and dairy complex. The tasteful reconstruction provided spacious rooms and a fine restaurant which served an excellent and well-deserved dinner.

     

    We were all pretty tired after this day, but we went to bed knowing that the following days would be sunny with temperatures rising to 25 degrees Celsius. Indian summer weather!

     

    Kilometres cycled:   78

     

    Fourth Day:  Telc – Vranov

     

    This was a shorter day than the day before but we had some hilly country to tackle as we followed the spectacular rocky and wooded valley of the Dyje river, which flows into the Danube.

     

    By mid-morning the sun had begun to shine and the temperature to rise. We rode through sun-dappled forests and fields and stopped at a large 17^th century convent complex, where we stocked up on snacks and looked around the old buildings perched on top of a hill with lovely views of the Moravian landscape we were to cycle through.

     

    In the afternoon, after lunch in a country village restaurant where some of our party were brave enough to assay the delicacies of the bull, we cycled through deeply-forested paths with short steep climbs and satisfyingly long downhill runs.

     

    We passed the 11^th century castle Bitov, high on an outcrop of the river, and climbed up to take a short tour of the castle. It was extended during the 15^th to 17^th centuries and had a fine library and impressive collection of hunting weapons: bows, crossbows and guns.

     

    A short distance away is another castle called Zornstein (Angry Rock). This is a quite different structure to Bitov, having been abandoned in the Middle Ages and largely derelict. It is however an impressive ruin of medieval fortifications. There were fine views to be enjoyed from this historic vantage point over the blue skies and green forests of the winding valley of the River Dyje.

     

    From Zornstein, it was a short ride down to the river and along the bank to Vranov.

     

    Kilometres cycled:   44

     

    Fifth Day:     Vranov to Znojmo

     

    This was also a shorter day in terms of distance, but again there were some tricky hills and off-road forest tracks to be negotiated.

     

    However, we did have the chance to tour the castle which sits upon a rocky crag that dominates the small town. The castle was modified extensively in the Baroque style in the 18^th century and so offered a completely different style to the previous day’s visits. It really was a most impressive place giving an insight into the opulent way of life of the aristocracy during Hapsburg rule.

     

    After the informative tour, we saddled up again and rode out of Vranov towards the major wine-producing town of Znojmo. This was another enjoyable day during which we mostly followed the border between the Czech Republic and Austria. The trails pass through forest and paved tracks in an area which had been off-limits for forty years during the days of the Iron Curtain. The natural habitat is therefore unspoiled. 

     

    The last section of the ride was quite taxing as we had to climb up away from the border towards Znojmo, situated on a steep hill above the river Dyje. It is a impressive sight with several ancient spires and towers rising above the houses perched on the hillside.

     

    After the steep ascent, we were pleased to arrive at the hotel, beautifully modernised with glass staircases, large rooms and comfortable beds.

     

    Kilometres cycled: 40

     

    Sixth Day:    Znojmo to Mikulov

     

    For me this was the finest day for cycling. The weather was beautiful, warm and sunny, and the terrain was gentle passing through undulating wine-growing lowlands.

     

    We had a long lunch at a traditional pub-restaurant and passed by the only section of preserved pre-1989 defences with fences, originally electrified, tank defences and a cleared, and previously mined, dead zone. It was quite creepy to see the physical embodiment of the ‘Iron Curtain’ and difficult nowadays to understand how peoples could have been so brutally divided after the Second World War.

     

    About 15 kilometres before Mikulov we stopped at a small wine-cellar, little more than an underground shelter, where the proprietor talked us through his current production and we tasted Burcak, the deceptively first fermentation of the grape juice. It was interesting to see the small scale of the production, but it is clear the the best of the wine never reaches the export market.

     

    Feeling refreshed, we pushed on through the glorious afternoon sunshine to Mikulov which we could see jutting out of the surrounding plains from far away. We had our farewell dinner in a restaurant adjacent to the hotel and then repired to a wine bar for prize-giving and valedictions.

     

    Kilometres cycled:   70

     

    Seventh Day:                   Mikulov to Vienna

                                Mikulov to Vratice – Lednice area

     

    Mikulov is a charming small town with a population of about 8,000 which was at one time a major centre of Jewish trade and scholarship. It is very interesting and thought-provoking to walk through its square with its pretty church and then through the adjacent Jewish quarter with its 15^th century synagogue.

     

    After breakfast, our fellowship was broken. Eight of our party had planned to end their tour in Vienna and they set off with George guiding. After a day’s ride they were driven the remainder of the distance to Vienna and delivered to their hotels by the ever-reliable Henry.

     

    The rest of us spent an enjoyable day riding a circular route from Mikulov to Valtice and Lednice. This area is another UNESCO World Heritage site and is thought of as the most architecturally valuable region in the country. This was a great day’s cycling to end the tour. We cycled along deserted roads to Valtice through the heart of Moravia’s prime wine region. We paused in Valtice to have a look at the impressive chateau and then pressed on to Lednice. The route took us through the forested parklands of the Lichtenstein family which are studded with ostentatious monuments including the Temple of the Three Graces and a shrine to the patron saint of hunters, Saint Hubert. After lunch in Lednice, we went to walk around the glory of the neo-Gothic chateau.

     

    Then it was back to Mikulov along a series of ribbon lakes following the border to meet up with the driver, Tonda, who drove us back to Prague and delivered us to our hotels, safe, sound and tired after a most enjoyable cycle tour through some of the finest countryside and towns that the Czech Republic has to offer.

     

    Kilometres cycled:   47

     

    Total kilometres over the week:  367

    Guided Group Tour by: www.bicycle-tours.cz

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• ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA recommends f ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA recommends for customers when riding in Vietnam

  • From: acitvetraveasia
  • Description:

     

    Vietnam is a frontier destination and a motorbike ride on a motorcycle through its rugged mountains is an unparalleled adventure. Be amongst the first to explore a land steeped in natural beauty and rich cultural heritage and experience face-to-the-wind just what this wonderful country has to offer.
    

    Motobiking Vietnam
    Riding in Vietnam is not for the feint of heart. It has the second highest rate of traffic fatalities in the world and is the second most dangerous place on earth for motorcyclists, just after India. There are approximately 40 traffic fatalities per day in the country. The way people ride in Vietnam is very different from yours : no rules! To ensure an authentic taste, make sure to ignore any Traffic Rules you know. This should help to achieve a fine balance between two-wheeled fun, fine roads, beautiful landscapes and complete and utter chaos.
    1. Do and don't
    
    
    These following rules are practical and informal:
    Do:
    
    
    - The traffic looks very crazy at first, but it’s not that bad. It’s like a river and when you are in it you have to flow. First rule is no rules.
    - Larger vehicles have right of way. Avoid anything bigger than you and slow down.
    - Use signal and the most important thing is the horn. People don’t care about the noise of horns.
    - Use both brakes at the same time with more back brake as if you apply more front brake it slips
    - Our guides were born and grow up in Vietnam, so they understand Vietnamese traffic. Follow the guide, ride behind him for safety.
    Do not:
    
    
    - Speed limit in Vietnam is very low (25-80km/h). Don’t break the speed limit.
    - Don’t ride on one wheel (free wheelie).
    - Animals are everywhere in the country or mountain roads. Dogs and chickens are the most then come water buffaloes, cows, pigs and horses…If you kill a dog or a chicken don’t stop, cry and feel sorry, it’s not your fault. Slow down and don’t hit water buffaloes, cows, pigs and horses, simply they are too big!
    - Do not drink and drive.
    Important:
    
    
    - Be careful with spilt oil from trucks and buses at curves on the mountain roads, extremely slippery and we have had at least four small accidents related to this matter.
    - Your guide leads the group and he gives you hand/body language if there are big pot holes, trucks, blind curves or any danger. He can see you in the mirrors and if you want to stop use the signal or simply pull off but be careful with riders behind you. If you got lost, just stop and wait for someone to find you or call us.
    - If the police stop you (this rarely happens), your guide will not come back. He will wait for you, out of sight up the road. Just keep talking English or whatever you want and they’ll soon give up and let you go in less than five minutes.
    - If a bike is technically broken, we will replace with the same type of bike or the next available model.
    2. What to bring:
    
    
    You don’t need to bring everything with you on the trip, pack essential things in a small bag (medium size, max 10kg) and put it on the back of the bike.
    Here are items we suggest for motorcycle touring:
    - Clothing: rain gloves, Wellington boots (rubber boots for rainy season from April to September), summer gloves, balaclava, T-shirts, socks & underwear, long sleeved shirts, turtleneck shirts, extra jeans, a light jacket, leather chaps, zip-lock bags, riding boots, bandannas, sunglasses, goggles, and contact lens solution.
    - Personal items: basic toiletries, emergency cash, sunscreen and earplugs.
    - Emergency items: a first aid kit, emergency contact number, list medical conditions, list medications, a flashlight, chargers and a duct tape.
    - Miscellaneous: a small towel, a bath towel, trash bags, camera and cargo net…and probably some gifts for children.
    3. Group Size
    
    
    

    Motobike Vietnam
    The maximum group size for rides in the north is from 5 to 8 people per group (limited to 6 motorcycles), riders or pillion passengers. This will enhance your experience and ensure a high degree of personal attention. Rides down the Ho Chi Minh Trail, however, can accommodate much larger groups because we use a support vehicle at your request (extra fees applied). Small groups enable us to trek into remote areas with minimal intrusion to the local cultures. Riding in a large convoy with all the inherent complications and delays is just not our way.
    The best group size is from three to four riders, not too many and not too little. More people means more fun but too big a group means less information the guide can provide as he needs to take care of your safety. Our largest group ever was 12 riders but we divided into two groups and two guides came on the trip.
    Recommended Vietnam motorcycling tours by ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA
    - Motorcycling Northwestern Trails
    
    
    Discover Vietnam’s rugged and scenic northwest and its people first hand. By taking to the roads and riding from the capital Hanoito the remote area of the northwest we can see life as it truly is for the Vietnamese. The perfect itinerary and the support crew ensure you get the most out of the trip in terms of comfort, enjoyment and adventure. Along the way we encounter dramatic landscapes and sweeping panoramas as the rural population goes about its business. Highlights include the terraced valleys ofSapa, challenging roads, stunning scenery and many different colorful minority groups.
    Highlights
    Stunning scenery
    Challenging roads
    Stunning Pha Din Pass and Tram Ton Pass
    Terraced valley of Sapa
    Colorful ethnic minorities
    Details program are available here
    - Taste of Ho Chi Minh Trail
    
    
    This trip offers a stunning motorcycling route with great exploration of nature and culture of northern Vietnam. The trip is organized for first time rider and easy adventure.
    Highlight
    Awesome scenery
    Homestay in villages
    Beautiful quiet road
    All inclusive
    Details program are available here
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• Avalon Harbor Avalon Harbor

  • From: joecruz
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    Looking down on Avalon Harbor from one of the highest points on Catalina Island

  • 3 months ago
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• Hiking along Tiger Leaping Gor Hiking along Tiger Leaping Gorge in Yunnan

  • From: Lux
  • Description:

    People who love the outdoors hiking all know that the Tiger Leaping Gorge is famous for its risk. On the canyon’s sides, mountains are standing high.

     

    Tiger Leaping Gorge is a canyon on the Yangtze Riverupper stream---the Golden Sands River, located 60km north of Lijiang, Yunnan. It is about 15km long. The canyon is located between Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain with a series of rapids and steep 2000m cliffs.’s

     

    It has Yulong to east with snow capped throughout the year. Silver Peaks insert to the sky with absurd rocks on the mountainside. Old vines coil and wind here. 

     

    So, for I who like the outdoors, it is sure a spots that could not to be missed, even it was raining. When coming to Yunnan in the rainy season, you should prepare for the rainy weather. 

     

    How can the long and slim gorge withstand the raging water in the river? 

     

    Turbulent Jinsha River runs through the Shigu town--- the first Yangtze River bay, and makes a sudden U-turn northward from the cracks between the Haba Snow Mountain and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and forming of the world's most spectacular Grand Canyon.

     

    The narrowest part of the canyon is the famous Tiger Leaping Gorge. It is said that a tiger stepping on the huge rock in the river can skip the Jinsha River.

     

    Most tourists who come to Tiger Leaping Gorge will visit the Upper Tiger Leaping Part, so, for avoiding the crowded tourists we chose to start our hiking from the middle part of the gorge.

     

    The hiking of middle gorge is from the Zhang Laoshi Lodge. Before we started hiking, the old women in the lodge asked us 10 CNY each one as passing fare, as the path was constructed by her family. 

     

    Just hiking half way, there is another old woman stopped us to ask for another 5 yuan for the passing fare. She said started from here, the way was built by her family. 

     

     

    After the hiking of the middle gorge, looking back to see the way we passed, it was seemed no as hard as imagine. 

     

    When passing the upper gorge, we saw lots of tourists, so we did not climb down to the bottom of the gorge; instead we looked down and find the scenery more momentum.

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• Make the Most of Your Holiday Make the Most of Your Holiday with Amazing Sights in Granada

  • From: Brianmcquillan
  • Description:

    The world is filled with awe-inspiring places of interest that are worth giving a touch of discovery but did you ever deem taking an excursion to Granada? Granada is the city in Spain that is simply amazing and is jammed with various breathtaking spots that knock you for six. It is steeped in enigmatic history whose tales still endure the glory that cannot be compared. If you want to take a walk down the ancient lane, you can do so by making your way to a number of churches, museums and other significant spots in the Spanish city.
    

     

     

    
    
    
    So, don’t let time slip through hands if you are really eager to unveil the times gone by and book Granada City Breaks for a vacation that will be etched in your mind for good. Granada is indisputably one of the most magnificent cities of eastern Andalucía.
    
    Want to astonish yourself with the stimulating historical spots in Granada? How about visiting Alhambra?
    Alhambra – The Alhambra Palace is one of the most renowned tourist destinations in the country. It sits majestically upon a hill and its construction began in the 13th century. It holds the reputation of being declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and consists of collections of buildings. Take cheap Spain flights to discover this historic city.
    
    Granada Cathedral – The cathedral of Granada was constructed by Queen Isabella and is a masterpiece of Spanish renaissance style. This cathedral has striking facades and impressive interior with a grand altar and numerous chapels.
    
    Granada is a cheerful and stunning city that takes the shelter under the Spain’s highest mountain range, the mighty Sierra Nevada. If we toss some light on the olden times of this mesmeric Spanish city, you would be acquainted with the fact that it dates back to prehistoric epoch and was known by the name of llbyr.

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• asolotraveler

  • Member
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• k8mcgarry

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• CLOSE-UP CLOSE-UP

  • From: sssnancysss
  • Description:

    0 0 0

    In the Sierra Mountains in California, snow lingers even into the summer months. This photo was taken on a trip down Hwy 395 in July. 

  • 4 months ago
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• Fiery mountain Fiery mountain

  • From: jfenson
  • Description:

    Molten lava flowing down the side of Pacaya Volcano in Guatemala.

  • 4 months ago
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• Matterhorn Matterhorn

  • From: pcottrell
  • Description:

    Took the Gorner Grat up to observatory and hiked back down to Zermatt.

  • 4 months ago
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• 6 Tips for Riding Safely A Mot 6 Tips for Riding Safely A Motorbike In Vietnam

  • From: activetravelasia
  • Description:

    1. Forget What Road Rules You Already Know

    Riding a motorbike in Vietnam (or any vehicle in South East Asia for that matter!) is very different to what you may be used back at home. The first thing you should know is that while road rules do exist, when on the road they cease to exist-if you get my drift! Forget trying to indicate, using your mirrors or going the speed limit-it just doesn't happen. At first this may take some getting used to but after a while it works. So many times we would see Vietnamese on their Moto’s pulling out of a road onto a major highway without even looking! It’s just a given that everyone moves around them or out of their way. Now while I’m not saying you should never look when pulling out (a lot of things you’ll still do instinctively) but rather you need to flex your rules to how the Vietnamese do things. For example, while Anthony was riding, if we needed to cross lanes, merge, turn or even slow down I would just stick my hand out (either left or right depending which way) and give it a little shake. Who needs indicators when you have a good old hand wiggle! The thing is, it worked. People knew where we were trying to go. It might seem a little awkward at first, trying to adapt but after a while their driving becomes second nature.

     

    2. Keep Up With The Flow Of Traffic

    

    This is probably one of the most important things you can do whilst on a bike. When you first get on, you make feel like you want to go slow (because it feels safer) but in all honesty, doing that will get you into an accident. In larger cities-because there are so many motorbikes-there is an ebb and flow to the traffic. Keeping up with this so called ‘pulse’ makes it easier to move on the road. If you’re travelling on major highways, always keep to the very edge of the road and try and go about 60km/h. It’s unlikely you’ll be able to go any faster and going slower is likely to cause more accidents.

     

    ---

     

    3. Have Tea Breaks

    If you’re on the road for most of the day, it is important to stop for tea breaks. Along both main and country roads there are countless teahouses that will offer you an ice-cold cup of ‘tra da’ (iced tea) for less than a dollar. Many of these places will also serve a soup or a rice dish too if you’re hungry. These stops are important so you can stretch your legs and have a bit of a break from riding, but they are also a great place to meet locals, have a chat with them and get a view into their daily life.

     

    4. Get A Decent Road Map

    Now while it may sound adventurous and rather ‘Bear Grylls’ of you to travel without a map, it is smarter idea to carry one with you on your trip. Not only can you decide where you want to ride to next, you can also pick and choose places a little more easily. We bought maps (from a bookstore near Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi) that were detailed, had how many km’s there was between towns and also had tourist sites for some places.

    

    Road signs are actually pretty good in Vietnam and many places/roads were labelled and corresponded to our map. On the off chance they didn't  or we weren't sure where we were going, we just pulled up somewhere and asked the locals for some help. We would show them the town on the map and then they would point us in the right direction. Everyone we met was willing and happy to help (so boys, don’t worry about asking for directions!) Not only will a map help keep you safe it is also great to keep check of everywhere you visited in Vietnam.

    

    5. Take Back Roads

    When you can, take the back roads to your next stop. Not only will they allow you travel slower and be less crowded, but more often than not the sights are breathtaking and the people very friendly.

     

    Running pretty much the entire length of the country is Highway 1. It’s busy, dusty and very fumy. However, to get to coastal towns, there are times when you’ll have to travel on this. Otherwise opt for the scenic and beautiful, Ho Chi Minh Trail. This road is very quiet, smooth and much more pleasant. Take your time and travel these smaller quieter roads, wherever possible.

     

    6. Don’t Ride At Night For Long Periods

    Riding at night is ok if you’re just going out to eat or visit markets etc, but try not to travel at night on your bike. Many of the roads have no streetlights, so at night it is more difficult to see what may be ahead of you. There are many dogs, chickens, cows they are constantly on the road, so running into one of them on the road wouldn't be pleasant or safe. Also, some Vietnamese don’t travel with their headlights on which makes them harder to see. The bottom line-don’t travel at night for a long period of time.

     

    Now Enjoy The Freedom!

    

    With these tips in mind, get out there are enjoy riding through Vietnam! You now have the freedom to go wherever and whenever you’d want. Stumbling upon little towns you never thought existed or meeting some of the friendliest people in the world, will surely be an amazing experience. Hopefully you’ll enjoy it just as much as we did!

    Source: positiveworldtravel

    
    

    Recommended Vietnam motorcycling tours by ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA

    Taste of Ho Chi Minh Trail

    This trip offers a stunning motorcycling route with great exploration of nature and culture of northern Vietnam. The trip is organized for first time rider and easy adventure.

    Highlight: 

    - Awesome scenery

    - Homestay in villages

    - Beautiful quiet road

    - All inclusive

    Details program are available here

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