514 Search Results for "rain"

• Exploring Budapest: Day 1 Exploring Budapest: Day 1

  • From: lavenderdays
  • Description:

    Flying all the way from Los Angeles, my mom and I arrived in Budapest at 9 in the morning - fun.  After making our way to the hotel, we ended up passing out for a good 3 hours on the extremely comfortable beds in our room.
    
    Miraculously, we were able to wake up and force ourselves to go outside and explore, despite the major jet lag. About 10 seconds after stepping outside, the blue sky quickly vanished and it started pouring so we ran into a cafe close to the hotel and hid out there for a good hour. 
    
    I was eager to try some Hungarian food so I ordered goulash soup which was really delicious. I’m no food expert so I’m not quite sure if there are several different kinds of goulash but mine had beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions in it. I’d definitely recomend trying it if you’re ever in Hungary! Unfortunately, I only ate goulash once while I was there because the rest of the week was extremely hot and who the hell wants to eat soup when it’s 90 degrees out?
    
    The rain stopped after an hour and sunshine returned so we decided to walk around the city a bit to get an idea of where everything is. We walked long the Danube River, passed the gorgeous Parliament building, and ended up around St. Stephen’s Basilica which is surrounded by beautiful shops and cafes. 
    
    Jet lag got the best of us again and we ended up returning to the hotel and falling asleep by 8:30. Yeah. Party animals.

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  • 6 days ago
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• Drying out Drying out

  • From: jfenson
  • Description:

    This Anhinga is drying its feathers after a rain shower in Tortuguero, Costa Rica.

  • 3 weeks ago
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• Unusual Planter Unusual Planter

  • From: amsher
  • Description:

    I saw this creative way to reuse an old rain boot at a restaurant in Costa Rica.

  • 4 weeks ago
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• How to plan a Tibet trekking t How to plan a Tibet trekking tour

  • From: tibettravel
  • Description:

    With the modernization of major cities of Tibet, travelers to Tibet cannot find original Tibetan taste. Many Tibetan people in cities live a modern life, wearing fashion clothes, using latest new mobiles. What you see is just out of your expectation. But making a Tibet trek to remote areas of Tibet, you will find the traditional Tibetan style. But you may ask how to plan a Tibet trekking tour? Just follow Tibettravel org, you will get a perfect answer.

     

    Where to Go

     

    The inaccessibility of many areas of Tibet offers lots of chance for travelers to do a trek in Tibet. Trekking from one holy site to another one or just around a sacred mount or lake in Tibet is the most popular trekking way in Tibet, for instance, trekking from Ganden Monastery to Samye Monastery or from Tsurphu Monastery to Yangpachen Monastery, or trekking around holy Mt. Kailash.

     

    Generally, Tibet trekking can be classified into Tibet pilgrimage trek, Tibet culture trekking and sightseeing trek, but most Tibet treks combine the three types together. During trekking in Tibet, you can visit sacred monasteries and other holy sites, view fabulous landscape of Tibet, drop a visit to a traditional Tibetan village, etc. 

     

    When to go 

     

    Tibet trekking is not feasible from December to March as the temperature goes very low and also the days become much shorter. During the snowfall not only the mountains are inaccessible but the highways that take you to the trail heads are blocked. Generally from April to October, the best time to travel to Tibet, is also great time to trekking in Tibet. Rain is not a problem for trekking in Tibet as it receives only little rain being in a rain shadow zone behind the Himalayas. Rather rainy season is the best time for trek, as the weather is mild and the ground in mountain valleys turn green and alpine flowers bloom in profusion.  

     

    Tibet Permits

     

    Depending on the area you hope to visit in Tibet, you may need as many as four different permits. Of course, Chinese visa is the first permit you should apply for. Then, Tibet Entry Permit issued by Tibet Tourism Bureau is a must for foreign travelers to travel to Tibet. Besides, Alien’s travel permit is required if you visit places outside Lhasa and military permit is needed for visiting militarily restricted areas of Tibet. These Tibet permits cannot cost you too much and are easy to get thanks for the new policy on Tibet travel permit 2013.   

     

    Equipment for Tibet trekking

     

    A trekking tour in Tibet is usually made at areas far away from main road and lack of tourist infrastructure, so you at least need a tent, a sleeping bag, and a stove to stay warm and well fed. All of these things can be purchased or rented in Lhasa, though quality may vary. White gas for western liquid fuel stoves is not available in Lhasa, though pressurized fuel canisters for canister stoves are found everywhere. Owners of multi-fuel stoves capable of burning regular unleaded will find gas stations in Lhasa. Ration 4-6 ounces of liquid fuel per person, per trekking day.

     

    Besides, warm clothing and a good pair of shoes are essential for a Tibet tour, and can be purchased in Lhasa, but the price is usually a little high at the tourist city. It is best to buy clothes and shoes in your hometown or big cities of mainland China. Waterproof, high-top hiking boots are better suited than ventilated low-top trekking shoes to the snow covered high mountain passes common on Tibetan trekking routes. Gaiters, knee high canvas leggings that attach to your boots, are extremely useful if snow gets above the ankle level.

     

    Food for trekking in Tibet

     

    Usually, there are no restaurants or shops on the trekking route. So you need to prepare food by yourself or hire a cook to prepare food for you. It is a good idea to bring enough food for your entire trekking tour. Though western style dehydrated "backpacker meals" are not available in Tibet, a wide variety of non-perishable foods at the local supermarkets makes it easy to eat well on your trek. Hot chocolate, dehydrated fruits, candy bars, and instant noodles make good staples. If your Tibet tour is long, it is best to hire a cook to cook food for you.  

     

    Drinking-water for Tibet trek

     

    Drinking large amounts of water is the most important key to beating the altitude. Tibet's backcountry is full of grazing yak, sheep, and goats so stream water must be treated before drinking. Lodine, chlorine, and mechanical filters are all good treatment options. Western filters cost a fortune in Lhasa, iodine isn't available anywhere in China or Tibet, and Chlorine tablets were in stock in limited quantities in Lhasa. Boiling water is effective, but Tibet's high altitude puts the boiling point lower. Bring water to a rolling boil for at least a minute before drinking.

     

    Water from locals is a good way to fill water bottles when passing through small villages. Though they may not have much if anything to offer in the way of food, every family keeps a large thermos of boiled water on hand. Just be sure you know what you're getting before pouring, or you may end up with a water bottle full of yak butter tea.

     

    Altitude Sickness

     

    Altitude and the related effects of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) should be taken seriously if you travel to Tibet. If ignored, AMS can progress into High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) or High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), both of which can be fatal. Before starting your trekking tour in Tibet, you should give yourself a few days to acclimatize. During trekking, move slowly and try not to sleep at the day's highest elevation. Most importantly descend to lower elevation immediately if any of your companions seem to act drunk, complain of a headache that is not relieved by ibuprofen, or become nauseous and vomit. 

     

    Hiring a Pack Animal

     

    It is very hard to walk at high altitude with a heavy backpack. It is wise to hire a pack animal, usually a yak. Yaks can be rented in villages of almost any size, and can make a trek more enjoyable by taking weight off of your back. Yaks come with yak men to herd, handle, and feed them and some yak men can speak a little English. 

     

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  • 4 weeks ago
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• Springtime Springtime

  • From: Donna Carroll
  • Description:

    Photo taken after sunrise in Florida after a night of thunderstorms.   This lily only blooms once a year but is worth the wait.

  • 1 month ago
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• Vacation Itinerary - Puerto R Vacation Itinerary - Puerto Rico

  • From: travowl
  • Description:

     

    Dear Diary,

     

    The awesomeness that is 'US' :P

    EEEEEEEEE!! I am super excited!! Our trip to Puerto Rico gets closer and closer every day. Just three more weeks and I am off to a week of sun, sand and hopefully bikinis (still working on that.) The fact the DJ cooks fucking amazing food doesn’t help me in losing weight in any way. Anyways, this will be an epic trip. We are going snorkeling, scuba-diving, zip lining and to top it off, we are camping out on the beach. Imaging waking up listening to the waves hitting the shores in the morning with the cool wind making whoosh whoosh noises.. Ahhhhh..blisss..Ohh that reminds me..I need to pack my yoga mat. Looking forward to do some beach yoga.

     

    I had to time this trip very precisely. With my PTO of 4 days and a national holiday (Good Friday) this will be a 9 day long trip. Also to maximize our stay there, I booked tickets late evening Friday and late morning Sunday. So here is the itinerary:

     

    Friday 22^nd March – Flight out of San Antonio at 7pm and will reach San Juan at 5 am the next morning.

     

    Saturday 23^rd March – Land at San Juan and pick up rental car and drive to Luquillo Beach to set up camp. Our goal for this day is to just relax and do some snorkeling. Based on my online research Luquillo Beach is apparently a very good beach to snorkel since the water isn’t too rough.

     

    Sunday 24^th March – Visit El Yunque rain forest and Zip line. Explore the forest as much as we can. Take some awesome pics and Zip Line through the trees.

     

    Monday 25^th March – Take the ferry from Fajardo to Culebra beach and go scuba diving at Flamenco Beach. The company that comes highly recommended is Culebra Divers. Spend the day scuba diving and at the beach and head back to town to eat lunch at Barbara- Rosa’s. In the evening take ferry back to Fajardo and drive back to Luquillo Beach.

     

    Tuesday 26^th March – Pack up camp and leave for Ponce. Spend the day there and drive to Lajas in the afternoon and at night drive and set up camp at Anasco.

     

    Wednesday 27^th March – Drive to Cumuy Cave and take the tour and in the afternoon take the trip to Arecibo.

     

    Thursday 28^th March – Pack up camp at Anasco and drive back to San Juan. Explore San Juan and check into hotel (Yes, we did take 2 nights hotel since we wanted to wine and dine for the actual day of our anniversary)

    
    

    FRIDAY 29^TH MARCH – ANNIVERSARY DAY!! Spend time together J

     

    Saturday 30^th March – Check out of hotel and drive to Fajardo. Explore Fajardo during the day and take the bio bay kayak trip in the evening. Return to San Juan airport at night and drop off the car and take flight back to San Antonio L

     

    Sunday 31^st March – Flight back to San Antonio.

     

     

    
    

    
    

    Yes, I know I skipped the the mountains in this trip but we still have 3 more weeks to plan this out. Maybe we will squeeze it in somehow, but as of now here is the plan. And with flight, hotel, car and our expenses, this trip shouldn't cross our budget of $3000. Lets see if we can make it :)

    
    

    Safe travels!!

    
    

    M 

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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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  • 2 months ago
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• Li River in Misty Rain Li River in Misty Rain

  • From: Lux
  • Description:

    It is my second Li River trip. Last season I hiked along this River, and this season, since it was a light stormy, I select to do a Li Stream vacation. The Li Stream was so wonderful in the misty rainfall, just like a China artwork collection.

     

    Reminding Guilin my preferred identify here must be Li Stream. My first a chance to Li Stream, it was a warm day, the elegance full Li Stream created me so satisfied that I did not feel any tried during the climbing. This a chance to Li Stream, the elements is not so excellent, and it was a little stormy. I had thought that it was not a excellent day to do the Li Stream vacation, but I was incorrect. In the misty rainfall, the scenery of Li Stream had another different elegance, which was amazed me. 

     

    It did not stop pouring. Our vessel approved through the natural water and mountains, which liked that I stepped into a China artwork collection. Status on the outdoor patio, it was so wet outside, river twisting through mountains. The far away mountain, close water and local-style homes were so relaxing. Along the vacation, the rainfall and water, the expression of mountains in the water, mists and ripples, etc… all the moments, I sensed that maybe I am in my desire. 

     

    Slowly, our vessel approved though the collection. All the way in the collection, the amazing artwork created me do not want to get off the vessel. I observed that Li Stream is always elegance all season long. In sunlight, rainfall, snowfall, water, all the elements conditions, Li Stream has it different ladies that draws visitors from all over the world. 

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• Tips for many Visiting minorit Tips for many Visiting minority villages in Sapa

  • From: acitvetraveasia
  • Description:

    Behind Halong Bay, Sapa is the second most favourite spot for almost travelers when arrive Vietnam.

    With the unique climate in Sapa, you are always be put in the frequent rain storms as well as cloudy condition so you need prepare for your happy trekking!
    For many people, one of the highlights of travelling in Sapa is the experience of visiting minority villages.

    

    If at all possible, it’s preferable to visit the minority villages as a part of a small group, ideally four people or less, as this causes least disruption and allows for greater communication. There is a whole debate about the ethnics of cultural tourism and its negative impact on traditional ways of life.

    Most villagers are genuinely welcoming and hospitable to foreigners, appreciating contact with Westerners and the material benefits which they bring.

    Village etiquette

    Behavior that we take for granted may cause offence to some Ethnic minority people; remember you are a guest. Apart from being sensitive to the situation and keeping an open mind, the following simple rules should be observed when visiting the ethnic minority areas.

    Dress modestly, in long trousers or skirt and T-shirt or shirt.
    Be sensitive to people’s wishes when taking photographs, particularly of older people who are suspicious of camera; always ask permission first.

    Only go inside a house when invited and remove your shoes before entering.
    Small gifts, such as fresh fruit from the local market, are always welcome.

    owever, there is a view that even this can foster begging, and that you should only ever give in return for some service or as a sign of appreciation for hospitality. A compromise is to buy craftwork produced by the villagers-most communities should have some embroidery, textiles or basketry for sale.

    As a mark of respect, learn the local term of address, either in dialect or at least in Vietnamese, such as chao ong, chao ba.

    Try to minimize your impact on the often fragile local environment; take litter back to the towns and be sensitive to the use of wood and other scarce resources.

    Growing and using opium is illegal in Vietnam and is punished with a fine or prison sentence; do not encourage its production by buying or smoking opium.

    Trekking practicalities

    Foreigners are now permitted to stay in minority villages, which has opened up to the possibility of trekking, and created a small industry focused on Sapa.

    You can arrange a tailored individual programme through a tour agent; it is important to ask for a guide with a good level of English who is familiar with the villages and the minorities’ culture traditions.

    Note that it’s not a good ideal to turn up at a minority’s village and expect to find accommodation; you host may find themselves in trouble with the authorities and there’s also a growing problem of petty crime, particularly around Sapa. Far better to make arrangements beforehand with someone who know the current situation. If you go with local guide, you are also less likely to cause offence and will probably have a more interesting time.

    It is very important to ear the right clothing when walking in these mountains; strong boots with ankle support are the best footwear, though you can get away with training shoes in the dry season. Choose thin, loose clothing-long trousers offer some protection from thorns and leeches; wear a hat and sun block; take plenty of water; rain coast and carry a basic medical kit.

    If you plan on spending the night in a village you will need warm clothing as temperatures can drop to around freezing, and you may want to take a sleeping bag, mosquito net and food, though may be provided on organized tours.

    Finally, dogs can be a problem when entering minority villages, so it is a good ideal to carry a strong stick when trekking, and always be watchful for the poisonous snakes that are common in this area.

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• After the Rain After the Rain

  • From: Vonelle Viajera
  • Description:

    In Oregon.

  • 4 months ago
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• Motorbike Adventure And Trekki Motorbike Adventure And Trekking (3 Days/ 2 Nights)

  • From: khuongvn
  • Description:

    Tour introduction:

    
    Ba Be Lake is a place with some of the most wonderful sceneres in Vietnam. The lake is in Ba Be National Park, which is about 250km North of Hanoi. It is near Bo Lu and Pac Ngoi villages, the home of Tay ethnic people.
    Ba Be Lake is on a limestone mountain, at a height of 150m above sea level. As it looks similar to Halong Bay, the lake is also called "Halong Bay on the mountain." It has a water surface area of 500ha. It is more than 8km long, nearly 2km at its widest, and 20-35m deep. The lake is made up of three river branches - Pe Lam, Pe Lu and Pe Leng.

    
    Tour code: BB29

    
    Day 1: Ha Noi - Ba Be (250Km/7hours) (L/D)
    
    After breakfast we depart Hanoi for We leave Hanoi at 8:00 am and follow the National road #3 to Thai Nguyen. On arrival, we have lunch in a local restaurant. Continuing on your trip to Ba Be National Park. Refresh with a short walk in the afternoon around the park and even go swimming in the nearby lake (depends on the weather condition).
    Have dinner in a local restaurant in Ba Be.
    Overnight in home-stay in Ba Be
    
    Day 2: Ba Be (B/L/D)
    This morning we take a boat cruising on the lake to discover the beauty of the lake and the diversity of fauna and flora living on the lake and visit nearby tourist places in the national park such as Tien Pond, Po Gia Mai Island, Puong Cave and Dau Dang Waterfall. If they visit at the time of Long Tong Festival on the 10th and 11th days of the first lunar month, they can see traditional games, performances of martial arts, and the horn dance of Tay, Dao, Mong, Nung and Kinh tribal groups.
    Get back to the village for lunch and a short break. In the afternoon, we do a soft trek to Ba Ba National park covering more than 23,000 hectares, this beautiful region is a tropical rainforest area with over 410 named plant species and 300 wildlife species. Get back to the hotel for dinner and free at leisure.
    Overnight in home-stay in Ba Be.
    
    Day 3: Ba Be - Ha Noi (250Km/7hours) (B/L)
    This morning we ride for a couple of hours around the park and take advantages of the morning's fresh air in the peaceful village. Have lunch in a local restaurant before heading back to Hanoi.
    Arrive Hanoi around 5:00 pm. The trip ends.
    
    Climate
    From July to September, the climate is usually humid and hot.
    From October to June brings cooler and more pleasant weather.
    
    Transport:
    - boat.
    - vehicle.
    
    Tour Guides:
    Our experienced and friendly Tour Guide(s) speak excellent English or French.
    They are extremely knowledgeable about local cultures, history and the environment.
    
    Meals:
    - 2 breakfasts.
    - 3 lunches.
    - 2 dinners.
    We choose local ingredients, typical of the way people eat in the area, at local restaurants, markets or homes.
    We also cater for Vegetarians but please request this at time of booking.
    
    Accommodation:
    - home stay (2 nights).
    A clean and comfortable home stay with mosquito nets provided.
    
    Tour price: please contact us
    
    
    Note: To book a place on this tour,it is required 30% deposit into our bank account the rest payment must be made 10 days before the departure.
    
    Tour includes:
    • Motorbikes (Minsk 125cc or similar): 01 bike/ per person
    • All petrol (gasoline), helmet
    • Rain gear
    • Motorbike jacket
    • Boat trip on Ba Be lake
    • 02 nights in the hotel in twin share room
    • Local English Speaking guide
    • Meals as mentioned in the itinerary: 02 Breakfasts (B), 03 Lunches (L), 02 Dinners (D)
    • All entrance fees
    
    Tour excludes:
    • Visa to Vietnam
    • Any other transportation are not mentioned in the itinerary
    • Travel Insurance
    • Drinks
    • Meals are not mentioned in the itinerary
    • Tip for guide
    • Other personal expenses.
    
    What to bring:
    • Passport
    • Good sunglasses
    • Good shoes for walking
    • Other personal needs and some cash for drinks or souvenirs.
    
      st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;}

     

    For further information, don’t hesitate to contact us:.

    Hotline:

    (+84) 1676 161 008

    Email:sales@thebtourist.com

    Website:

    www.babenationalpark.com.vn

    www.thebtourist.com

     

    THE B-TOURIST TOURISM SERVICE AND TRADING COMPANY LIMITED

    Head office: No. 03, Lane 150/141, Giap Nhi Street, Thinh Liet  Ward, Hoang Mai District, Hanoi, Vietnam

    Tel: (+84) 4 3 6425 420

    Fax: (+84)4 3 6425 421

    Email:info@thebtourist.com

    Website: http://thebtourist.com 

     

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• Some essential tips in Motorbi Some essential tips in Motorbike tour

  • From: acitvetraveasia
  • Description:

    1. Reasons for choosing motorbike

    Motorbike is considered the best means of transportation for traveling mountainous areas due to its convenience and initiative. With a motorbike, one is free to go wherever he loves, despite all kinds of road’s condition. He can stop whenever he feels like to take photographs or relaxing, instead of depending on the driver or tour guide. Motorbike helps integrating people with nature and fresh air, and one will never be afraid of motion sickness. If choosing a car, people are likely to waste hours sleeping in passenger’s seat with air condition, not to mention the car sick caused by consecutive slopes and mountain passes. Riding on the motorbike means living on every single kilometer of your itinerary! Moreover, one can ride a motorbike in any kind of terrains, and it is much easier to repair in case of breaking down.

      

                                            

            

    ---

                              

    2. Which kind of motorbike and when?

    100 cc-or-more semi-automatic motorbikes are all suitable for roads in Northern Vietnam’s mountainous area. The main criteria for choosing motorbike are strong engine, gasoline-saving and flexible packing space.

    Weather is one of the most essential issues regarding planning for motorbike trip. The best time for exploring those mighty areas is from late September to the beginning of December or after Tet Nguyen Dan, when there is almost no rain and the temperature is cool. The spring’s rain and summer’s heat in high region somehow are hazardous for health as well as damaging to the road’s quality.

     

                                         

    3. Be well-prepared!

    There are indispensable things that one has to bring whenever traveling to remote areas such as specialized clothes and shoes, personal stuff, map, contact information and medical bags. However, a motorbike trip requires more than that. One will have to be well-prepared with a protective helmet and a motorcycle repair tool kit, and of course, certain skills of mending engine. An extra spark-plug and motorbike’s key are always in need. Remember to maintain the whole motorbike before setting off, change the oil and check its tyres, brakes, mirrors, horn and light. Fill up your motorbike with gasoline and know the location of gasoline station!

     

    4. On the way

    If possible, traveling in groups of two or three motorbikes with one experienced leader is advisable. All members of the group are required to have detailed itinerary to get rid the risk of getting lost. People should not ride parallel to each other and talk while controlling the motorbike, thus, stop the bike if feeling a need for a conversation.

    Pay attention to the bend and ones driving contrariwise and do not drive into other lane. Sometimes, there may be animals like buffaloes, cows, dogs or even pigs crossing the road, so one should decrease the speed and avoid making them panic. At night or in rain weather, when the vision is limited, travelers had better pause the journey for resting and safety reasons.

     

    5. Other things to remember

    • Do not ride when you feel tired or sleepy.

    • Do not ride after drinking alcohol.

    • Avoid riding too fast or stop without noticing.

    • Observe carefully and pay attention to road signs.

    • Bring your identity paper and driving license because there will be police checking along the road (however they will not be very strict to foreigners)

    • Be extremely careful when crossing the stream; be sure about the depth of the water to have the best arrangement.

    • Respect the ethnic minority people and their distinctive culture.

    • Protect the environment and always remember: Safe is of primary important.

    
    

     
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• 11 Days Experience China Tour 11 Days Experience China Tour to Beijing-Xian-Guilin-Shanghai

  • From: topchinatravel
  • Description:

    Day 1

    Arrival Beijing
    Arrive in Beijing, the capital city of China. Be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Free at leisure for the rest of the day.
    Meals: No Meals 
    Accommodation: In Beijing
    
    Beijing, China capital and one of the great travel destinations of the World, offers sights and cultural relics found no where else on Earth. The city has a character all its own; there are quadrangles, small alleys, tricycle, boiled mutton, roasted duck, arts and crafts, Peking Opera, The Great Wall, the 2008 Olympics venue and a vibrancy that is the distinctive flavor of Beijing.
     

    Day 2

    Beijing
    Depart from your hotel in the morning to visit Tiananmen Square, the World largest urban square and the Forbidden City, the largest and most complete ancient imperial palace in the world. Then visit the Temple of Heaven in the afternoon. Peking Opera is available for your optional night entertainment.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
    Accommodation: In Beijing
    
    As the biggest city center square in the world, Tiananmen Square covering 44 hectares in the heart of Beijing. It is the place where history-changing events and ceremonies occurred. A few steps away, come to visit the Forbidden City, which was the Imperial Palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing Dynasties and, it is one of the largest, and certainly the most completely restored, ancient architectural complex in the world. Walk in the footsteps of Emperors; come to the museum and see with your eyes, and feel with your hearts; you'll begin understand what life in this richest of feudal realms was like for the Imperial Rulers, their concubines and their slaves.
    
    After enjoying a delicious lunch, continue on to the Temple of Heaven. Departing from the Imperial vermilion and gold hues of the Forbidden City, The Temple of Heaven is decorated in blue, the color of the Heavens. The perfect harmony between the architectural environment and nature can be felt here; you might easily imagine the vivid spectacle of a great sacrifice to the Heavens for a good harvest. The magnificent Hall of Prayer of Good Harvest is one of the most important and impressive building in China.
    
    In the evening, we offer you an opportunity to enjoy Peking Opera as an optional activity. Expert performers convey powerful emotions to the audience through song, dance, facial make-up, exquisite masks and costume, skilled use of body language and sympathetically integrated musical accompaniment.
     

    Day 3

    Beijing
    Today you will have the opportunity to traverse the ancient steps of Mutianyu Section of the Great Wall first, then Ming Tombs (Changling Tomb), the once lavish burial chambers of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Peking Roasted Duck is available for your optional dinner.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
    Accommodation: In Beijing
    
    Mutianyu Great Wall was first built in the mid-6th century during the Northern Qi, making it older than the Badaling section.  It is connected with Jiankou in the west and Lianhuachi and Jinshanling in the east. In 1569, the Mutianyu Great Wall was rebuilt, mainly with granite and is one of the best-preserved sections with the largest construction scale and best quality among all sections of Great Wall, being 7-8 meters high and 4-5 meters wide with 22 watchtowers on this 2,250-meter-long section. It served as the northern barrier defending the capital and the imperial tombs.
    
    Then, you will have chance to visit the Ming Tombs which located in the northern suburbs of Beijing. Altogether there are thirteen tombs of Ming Dynasty Emperors from the period after the capital was moved from Nanjing to Beijing. You visit the Changling Tomb, burial site of Emperor Yong Le, the biggest and first built at this historic site. The Lingsi Palace in Changling Tomb's second yard really deserves a visit. This is unique, a magnificent palace made of camphor wood. The ceiling is colorfully painted and supported by sixteen solid camphor posts. The floor is decorated with gold bricks.
    
    For today dinner, how about taste the famous Peking Roasted Duck, as it is the best-known dish in Beijing. It is very tender and unforgettably delicious. You will visit a local restaurant to enjoy a full meal and learn the proper way to experience Peking Roasted Duck. From the whole roasted duck to the soup of duck bones, you will enjoy a banquet made from every part of the duck. Moreover, the chef will demonstrate his skill of cutting the skin of the duck for your entertainment.
     

    Day 4

    Beijing    Xian
    In the morning, take a Hutong Tour by rickshaw to visit the ancient lanes and alleyways of Beijing. Be transferred to the airport for the flight to Xian in the afternoon.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
    Accommodation: In Xian
    
    If exploring the Forbidden City has improved your understanding of the lifestyles of China ancient Imperial Court, then this relaxing Hutong Tour will give you an insight into the lives of ordinary Chinese people and reveal their social culture in today Beijing City. The narrow streets of old Beijing are known as Hutongs. You will take a pedicab tour along the Hutongs and see the 100-year-old houses, courtyards and a vanishing way of life in today's Beijing.
    
    Wonderful time always passes so quickly, in the afternoon, you have to take a flight to Xian, the city that steeped in history and still giving up secrets, is your gateway to ancient Chinese civilization. In its 3,100 recorded years of evolution, it has been home to 13 dynasties. Xian was also the end of civilization for those setting out on the famous Silk Road. Today Xian is a vibrant, modern city, but surrounded by history, even underfoot! So there can be no underground railways due to the obligation to preserve the wealth of ancient treasure still awaiting discovery.
     

    Day 5

    Xian
    Enjoy your full day visit to the Terracotta Warriors, one of the world most important archaeological finds, with troops, horses and carriages in battle formation and the massive City Wall. Before dinner, have a nice walk in the North Square to view the fully illuminated Big Wild Goose Pagoda. There is also the option to attend fantastic Tang Dynasty Show (dinner included).
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
    Accommodation: In Xian
    
    As an ancient capital city to 13 dynasties, Xian has a rich recorded history, frequently enhanced by the evidence of new discoveries, like the 1974 unearthing of the fabulous Terracotta Warriors, the long forgotten army created to guard Emperor Qin Shihuang's tomb. In accordance with ancient beliefs, this grand project was mounted at enormous cost by the cruel and tyrannical Emperor, only to be attacked, plundered, burnt and buried after his funeral by the peasants who'd labored under the whip to build it. Then, over two thousand years later, this 'Eighth Wonder of the World' was rediscovered by farmers digging a well. The fine troops, horses and carriages in battle formation are a National ancient art treasure. Three excavation pits are now opened to the public and a fourth is nearing completion. You can, like US President Clinton, now gaze in wonder upon this historic site, listed by UNESCO in 1987 as a world cultural heritage.
    
    The first landmark visitors will encounter in Xian is the ancient City Wall, which stretches round the old city. Xian was always a walled city, and today wall represents one of the oldest and best preserved Chinese city walls, as well being one of the largest ancient military defensive systems in the world. The first city wall of Chang'an was begun in 194 BCE. The existing wall was started during the Ming Dynasty in 1370; it is massive, measuring 13.7 km in circumference, 12 m in height, and 15–18 m in thickness at the base. The South Gate and North Gate are the two main entrances to the inner city. The city itself is neatly arranged along the city wall. This impressive structure is just a precursor to the remarkable discoveries awaiting visitors to Xian. 
    
    The Big Wild Goose Pagoda was built in 652 during the Tang Dynasty and originally had five stories, although the structure was rebuilt in 704 during the reign of Empress Wu Zetian and its exterior brick facade renovated during the Ming Dynasty. One of the pagoda's many functions was to hold sutras and figurines of the Buddha that were brought to China from India by the Buddhist translator and travelers Xuanzang. Now this well-preserved holy place for Buddhist has been the symbol of Xian. 
    
    Tang Dynasty Show with Dinner that was created for "emperors only" in ancient China. You can enjoy the sumptuous dinner while watching a fabulous dancing and singing performance of the Tang Dynasty. This is not only a performance of Chinese traditional dancing and singing, but a re-enactment of Chinese ancient ceremony and culture.
     

    Day 6

    Xian    Guilin
    Finish up your Xian tour by visiting the famous Shaanxi History Museum. After lunch, you will be transferred to the airport to board a short flight to Guilin.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
    Accommodation: In Guilin
    
    As the regional capital and doorway to the Silk Road, Xian was one of the richest, most well-protected cities in all of China. The famous Shaanxi History Museum introduces the visitor to area rich culture, from Emperor Qin Shihuang to the present day in this walled city. The museum is house in a striking Tang Dynasty-style pavilion and features an enormous collection of 113,000 historic and cultural relics. This is where you experience history, with chronological dynasties exhibits that take you through the ancient dynasties.
    
    After the tour in Xian, you will have a different experience for the visiting in Guilin, which is famous for its serene landscape, Karst limestone formations, mist-covered hills and bamboo groves. It is home to more than ten ethnic groups. On the way from the airport to your hotel, you will find dozens of pretty hills everywhere in the city of Guilin. It is a city of hills and green trees and boasts one of the most photographed areas of China.
     

    Day 7

    Guilin      Yangshuo
    In the morning you will be driven to the Pier for the Li River Cruise (about 4 hours, lunch served on board). Savour the fairy-tale scenery while cruising down the meandering river to Yangshuo. After disembarkation, have a walk along the famous West Street. In the evening you can enjoy the optional night show of Impression of Liu Sanjie.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
    Accommodation: In Yangshuo
    
    In the morning, be driven to Pier for your Li River Cruise. A double-decker river boat is waiting for you. The landscape from Guilin to Yangshuo is truly a masterpiece of nature. The crystal waters, straight-out-of-a-painting mountains, peaceful farm fields, hard-working-but- ever-smiling fishermen and wandering water buffaloes inspire poetic musings of Guilin charming life. Under the blue sky, your river boat transports you in an unending daydream.
    
    You will end up your cruise in Yangshuo, is a small oriental but Western-influenced town with a history of 1000 years. The West Street in the town earns its name since almost every one in West Street can speak fluent English and every restaurant or bar offers menus in several languages. You will feel no borders or distance here and will soon fall under the spell of this charismatic, welcoming small-town atmosphere. Moreover, West Street is flanked by fascinating little shops and vendor stands selling a broad variety of superior quality souvenirs, perfect gifts for friends and relatives. West Streets charms increase when night comes; countless bars, cafés and bistros open till midnight with dynamic music and live bands to ensure you can have a really memorable night with your new-found friends.
    
    Some guests may also hear about the night show- Impressions of Liu Sanjie performance. The site is only one mile from West Street in the world's largest natural theatre which utilizes the waters of the Li River as its stage, flanked by twelve mist shrouded hills and the heavens as its backdrop. Mist, rain, moonlight, the hills and their inverted reflections in the river all become the ever-changing natural background, so you will enjoy a unique experience each time you attend. In the 'Impressions of Liu Sanjie', you will be presented with stylized scenes and events from the daily life of the Zhuang people living around the Li River. From these pageants, you will gain a realistic sense of Sanjie's birthplace and appreciate the beauty of the folk songs. If you are able to take photographs under low-light conditions, you are assured of some stunning images from this performance.
     

    Day 8

    Yangshuo    Guilin
    In the morning, have an excursion (if you are interested, can have a biking) around the countryside of Yangshuo to admire some of the most stunning scenery like the Moon Hill and the Big Banyan Tree. Drive back to Guilin after lunch
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
    Accommodation: In Guilin
    
    Yangshuo's scenic and quiet countryside- flora, fauna, rice paddies, small bridges and so many awaits you to see. Taking mini van or bicycle is an ideal way. Besides the beautiful rural scenery, you can also enjoy farm food and explore the ancient way of planting rice, which has been practiced by Chinese for thousands of years. 

    Day 9

    Guilin    Shanghai
    Before flight to Shanghai, you will have a half day city tour to Elephant Trunk Hill, the symbol of Guilin City and then the colorful Reed Flute Cave, the showcase of distinctly-colored stalactites and stalagmites. After lunch, be transferred to Shanghai in the afternoon by air.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
    Accommodation: In Shanghai
    
    Return to the city center for the next tour attraction, pagoda-capped Elephant Trunk Hill, or Xiangbishan, the symbol of Guilin. Observed from a distance, you will see an elephant-like form standing majestically at the confluence of the Li and Yang Rivers, with its trunk arching into the clear waters, a fantasy elephant eternally quenching a gargantuan thirst; lifelike in shape and energetic in posture.
    
    Reed Flute Cave is named for the special reeds, used for making flute instruments that grow near the cave entrance. The caves are a feast for the eyes. The natural beauty of a profusion of stalactites and stalagmites, stele, stone pillars, stone curtains and stone flowers creating an infinite variety of extraordinary scenes, creatively illuminated, is bound to evoke gasps of admiration. It is fitting then, that Reed Flute Cave is commonly praised as Nature's Grand Art Palace.
    
    Wonderful time always passes so quickly, in the afternoon, you have to take a flight to Shanghai. From scenic place Guilin to that modern city, you have a lot to expect. It is the bustling economic heartbeat of China that enjoys all of the comforts and amenities of a fully modern metropolis. But at the same time, it still has scenic ancient sites reminding the rich history of old Shanghai
     

    Day 10

    Shanghai
    Today, enjoy your full day city tour that start with the visit to the Jade Buddha Temple, then move to Yuyuan Garden, a Chinese classic garden in city downtown, and the nearby old street. Next have a bird-eye view of the city after ascending Oriental Pearl TV Tower, which is the third tallest TV and radio tower in the World. The highlight of the day is perhaps the stroll along Shanghai's famed waterfront promenade, the Bund, to admire the illuminated buildings lining the Huangpu River.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
    Accommodation: In Shanghai
    
    Today you'll find a Buddhism shrine - Jade Buddha Temple, which is located in a crowd of Shanghai City. It was first built in 1882 in Jiangwan on the southern outskirts of Shanghai. In order to make it convenient for the adherents to visit, it was bodily moved to Shanghai City at the present sire in 1918. It is named for its two bejeweled white jade Buddha. It receives thousands of visitors and worshipers everyday while keeps its sanctity and charming. Carved from a whole piece of white jade, the sitting jade Buddha statue is translucent with a solemn expression, displaying the excellent skill and extraordinary art of Chinese people.
    
    Yuyuan Garden has a lot of stories for it was severely damaged in the 19th century and was restored in 1961. This garden was first built in the 16th century by provincial governor, Pan Yunduan, in honor of his father who was the then government minister. It has many scenic courtyards decorated with baroque rockery, pools, and flora that are all connected by corridors and passageways. The delicate design and exquisite layout of the whole garden reveals a strong impression of 'garden in the garden, whole in the part.
    
    Completed in 1995 to a highly innovative design, Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower has become a symbol of excellence in architecture and is a favourite sight for tourists in Shanghai. At 468 meters, it is the third tallest TV and radio tower in the World.
    
    The tower is composed of the tower base with three batter posts, and three standing pillars, within which are elevators, holding 11 steel-structures creates the poetic conception as described in the old line "large and small pearls dropping onto a jade plate".
    
    The Bund is the showcase with the old buildings of colonial-era leftover along Huangpu River. The renowned waterfront district is the city's most famous landmark. The word BUND is of Anglo-India origin meaning embankment on the waterfront. It is also the popular site to enjoy the night view of the city
     

    Day 11

    Departure Shanghai
    Your China Experience is over all too soon as you transfer to the airport and board the homebound international flight, bidding a fond farewell to this ancient land.
    Meals: Breakfast
    
    Service Ends

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• Fog and Sunset Fog and Sunset

  • From: Linda Brannen
  • Description:

    Took this picture at sunset and it was also foggy and started to rain.  Carancahua Bay is 10 miles from Palacios, Texas.

  • 7 months ago
  • Views: 862
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• Story Book Land Story Book Land

  • From: biglannie
  • Description:

    Has anyone ever read you a fairytale
    And taken you to magical places
    Where homes are made of gingerbread and skies are always blue
    Where pumpkins turn to coaches and wishes all come true
    Has anyone ever sung you a lullaby?
    You can fly above the rain clouds
    Close your eyes and dream

    
    Château de Langeais, Loire Valley, France

  • 8 months ago
  • Views: 499

• After a rain, run-off in a for After a rain, run-off in a forest in Vermont's Green Mountains

  • From: paulhurd
  • Description:
  • 8 months ago
  • Views: 481
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• Green Monkey in the Rain Fores Green Monkey in the Rain Forest of Barbados

  • From: Michael.Baker
  • Description:

    A wild green monkey enjoying a banana in the rain forest of Barbados

  • 8 months ago
  • Views: 280
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• GUIDE 2 FUN IN VEGAS.. GUIDE 2 FUN IN VEGAS..

  • From: ajjordan2
  • Description:

    

    My friends and I took a 4-day vacation in Las Vegas, and we had a blast due to prior planning and recommendations from past visitors. Here is a guide to different venues and hotspots that we enjoyed for those traveling to the exciting Sin City…

     

     

    We decided to stay at the 4-star Platinum Hotel, located off-strip. This was a great choice, as the boutique hotel allowed us intimacy, without the overwhelming hustle and bustle of the big casino hotels. Our room was luxurious, complete with a full kitchen (including a dishwasher), washer and dryer, whirlpool Jacuzzi and state-of-the-art fixtures. The 255-room hotel contains one or two bedroom suites that range from 950 to 2,200 square feet, and contain an outdoor swimming pool, on-site fitness center, day spa, business center, and dry cleaning services. The property hosts many weddings as it is one of the only hotels with a large patio featuring outdoor views of the Strip. For food options, you can choose between the Kilowat Restaurant, which is open from 6am to 2pm for breakfast and lunch, and Stir lounge, which is open for dinner from 4pm to 2am. A unique feature to this lounge is their extensive wine selection (50-100 classic and vintage wines), with an added treat of 50% off special on their classic wines on the weekend. The Platinum Hotel is constantly in the Top 10 rating on TripAdvisor (out of 280 Las Vegas hotels).

     

     

    

    

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    After checking into our hotel and unpacking, we took a 15 minute walk to Central Michel Richard for lunch, located at Caesars Palace. This was a great start to our weekend, as the restaurant was bright and airy with both outdoor and indoor seating, as well as great views of the Strip. We started off with an appetizer of crab cakes with leeks tartare and ginger aioli. For my main course, I chose the pan seared salmon, which was cooked well done to my preference, and had an awesome burst of flavor through a medley of seasonings. My companion chose the fried chicken and mac ‘n’ cheese. Two of their cocktails, “Blueberry Blitz” and “Granada Sangria” are excellent choices for those who like fruity drinks. This is a great spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. For those who enjoy breakfast mid or late-day and like to party late into the night, the restaurant offers a “Late Risers Menu” from 11:30AM to 6AM.

     

     Our first evening in Vegas was a blast, and probably the best night of our vacation. We spent the evening at the Bellagio hotel, and dined and played at three of their venues: Fix, Lily, and The Bank. We started off at Fix for dinner, which was loungy with architectural, earth-toned décor. We were offset from the middle of the casino, which gave us nice views of the players, but still felt like we were in a restaurant. We started off with the “Ultimate Shell Fix”, which is a perfect appetizer for shellfish lovers. The seafood sampler contained marine lobster, tiger prawns, seasonal crab, market oysters, and clams. The lobster tacos and seabass were two of our favorite menu items. For drinks, we favored the “Raspberry Sin”, followed by the Cucumber Martini and Pineapple Mojito.

     

     From Fix, we migrated a few steps over to Lily, an upscale lounge and perfect venue for pre-gaming for a late night.  The décor at Lily contained glass paneling, white lilies in vases, boudoir furniture, and see-through drapes to give a sensual aura about the place. Music selections were diverse, and contained a nice variety of Old School R&B, Country Rock, and Reggae. The best part of the experience was sampling 10 different cocktails on their menu, all created by bartender/mixologist, Emilio Tiburicio. Some of the specialty cocktails include, “Lily” (their signature drink, which is a mixture of lime, vanilla, pear, and blood orange vodka) and the “Hibiscus Margarita” which is similar to Triple Sec, but better quality. My favorite cocktail was the “Sgroppino”, which was a combination of lemon sorbet and Grey Goose Le Citron vodka. Emilio described his creations as having “20 or 30 different flavors in one cocktail”. I recommend this venue for those that love creative and one-of-a-kind drinks.

    

     

     

    After getting our fill of cocktails at Lily, we went to The Bank, a two level nightclub with 8,000 square feet of dance and lounge space. They have VIP rooms available that accommodate up to 75 people, and we experienced having bottle service in their VIP area, which was a blast. The music selection ranged from House to Hip Hop and featured an elegant décor of black, gold, and Cristal adorned walls. The club is open Friday through Sunday starting at 10:30 p.m. and always attracts a large number of partygoers.

     

    Friday morning, we decided to experience something adventurous; we went zip lining at Bootleg Canyon, hosted by FlightlineZ. This was an adrenaline pumping activity, and it was also great to see another area of Nevada outside of the strip. The excursion departs from Excalibur hotel located on the Strip, and takes around 30 minutes to get to the zip lining destination. The activity was a one-of-a-kind experience, where you zip line from four different levels at speeds of around 65 miles per hour, for a total of 1.56 miles and a total elevation drop of 1200 feet. The view is breathtaking; overlooking orange mountains and arid terrain. The length of the zip lines are 1852ft, 1864ft, 2546ft, and 1150ft, consecutively. This is unique because the 3^rd zip line at 2546ft is the longest in Nevada and the 3^rd longest in the country. The hosts were extremely gregarious and experts at making you feel comfortable throughout the excursion.

    

     

     

     

     

    Friday evening we attended Holly Madison’s Peepshow. The burlesque show is described as being “tantalizing fun, taking audiences through a glamorous enchanted adult playground”. The show was created by Tony Award-winning director/choreographer Jerry Mitchell, who directed both Legally Blonde and Hairspray. The name, “Peepshow” is a clever play on words and a fitting description of the program in that there were characters called “Bo Peep”, “Peep Diva”, as well as the obvious reference to the sexy burlesque show. The theme of the show is childhood fairytales with a sexy, adult twist. The element that was the most enjoyable was the wide range of diverse women performing, from black, white, to Hispanic, with different body types and personalities. These were not your stereotypical Vegas Showgirls, however, each woman had a unique sexiness to them, and the choreography and performances were top notch. This is a performance to go see immediately, as the last show takes place December, 2012.

     

     

     

    

     

     

     

    Friday night we went to Palms hotel to experience their nightlife scene. We started at Ghost Bar, a rooftop lounge situated on the sweeping 55^th floor of the hotel. The 360-degree view of Vegas from this level was awe-inspiring. Compared to the many massive-sized clubs and lounges in Vegas, this venue was intimate and sexy, and thus frequently attracts the celebrity clientele. The lounge contained indoor and outdoor partitions, with plush, white furniture. After visiting Ghost Bar, we went next door to Rain, a popular club for House music, and contains 25,000 square feet of dance space with an upscale interior.

     

     

     

     

    After a night of partying, we slept in until lunchtime, and decided to dine at Slice of Vegas located at Mandalay Place (a shopping area located in between Mandalay Bay hotel and Luxor and contains affordable boutique shopping and dining choices). Slice of Vegas is an Italian eatery described by the manager, Tony Cordovana, as being “fresh casual Italian”. We started with an appetizer of calamari, which is cut fresh in-house. For the table, we ordered the “Four Cheese Truffle” pizza, a white pizza with mozzarella, ricotta, Parmigiano-Reggiano and fontina cheeses over a roasted garlic Alfredo sauce. The restaurant makes both their pizzas and sauces in house. Slice of Vegas is also popular for their alcoholic beverages, which include their 60 different types of beers and specialty cocktails. One of their favorites is the “You Dirty Tomato” cocktail, a bacon-flavored vodka with Bloody Mary and a pepperoni straw: not for the faint of heart (or vegetarians).

     

     

    After leaving Slice of Vegas, we stopped next door at Fat Tuesday (comparable to Wet Willie’s in Miami) and had jello shots along with a 190 Octane drink, which contains 3 shots of EverClear grain alcohol. By the time we arrived at our next destination, we had a nice buzz going. Our destination was Liquid, a pool party at Aria hotel located on the Strip. The venue contains two luxury VIP pools, 8 grand private cabanas, each of which is equipped with a 40” flat screen TV and mini fridge.  The entire property is internet-ready, so you can relax on one of the chaise lounges or day beds that line the 1,200 square-foot pool. There is also a restaurant that offers pool side dining with a menu prepared by Chef Brian Massie.

     

     

     

     

    That evening, we dined at Strip House, located at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Strip House is a fine dining experience that offers an innovative menu with sultry interior designs by David Rockwell. For appetizers we had the lobster bisque, mac ‘n’ cheese, and truffle spinach. Each was flavorsome and expertly baked. I chose the 2 pound shelled lobster with butter sauce as my entrée, which needed no help from side dishes. My companion chose the “Crisp Skin Scottish Salmon” entree, adorned with artichokes, pancetta, fingerling Potatoes and basil sauce. Perhaps the icing on the cake was literally their famous 24-layer chocolate layer cake, which we had for desert. According to the manager, they’ve sold 10 tons of the cake since its opening 5 years ago. The ambiance of the restaurant is perfect for a romantic date, with original 1900’s black and white nude photos adorning the sexy blood-red interior.

    

     

     

     

     

    Our last day in Vegas (Sunday) was an explosive culmination to our vacation. We spent the day at Rehab, a pool party located at the Hard Rock Hotel. I nicknamed the event, “the Coachella of pool parties” because of its immense popularity, including it being featured as its own reality show. Rehab takes place during the summer months, and features an A-list performer (Nelly performed at our weekend’s event) every Sunday and packs around 3,200 patrons each event. Chris Brown performed during the Sunday of Labor Day weekend, and the property usually gets around 4,700 patrons during the holidays. Resident DJ’s, Wellman and Shift play a range of music from house to R&B and Hip Hop.

     

     

     

     

  • Blog post
  • 8 months ago
  • Views: 915

• Rain nightclub_Vegas Rain nightclub_Vegas

  • From: ajjordan2
  • Description:
  • 8 months ago
  • Views: 697
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