Wednesday, December 5, 2007

Australia

If you are an eager, fairly adventurous traveller then Australia is probably the destination that have been swimming in some subdirectory of your travel ambitions. Down under has lots of appeal. It's English speaking, exotic, remote, filled with crazy looking plants and animals. Many Australians combine the best character qualities from around the globe: hardiness, humour and cordiality.

Aussies are justifiably famous for outgoing character. The Australians are masters of a vast, isolated, largely desert continent and their outlook shows independence of spirit and loads of aptitude.

England

From beautiful landscapes in the North to the great city of London in the South east or coastal charms in the South west, England is truly a destination to explore. Choose from vast National Parks, royal gardens or world-class attractions including historic castles and glorious countryside destinations. Seaside resorts, quaint villages and towns steeped in history and culture offer splendid comforts and natural beauty for any traveller. There are many ancient historical cities - York and Chester still with their old city walls, Lincoln and Bath, and Oxford and Cambridge famous for their ancient universities. Manchester, Birmingham and Liverpool and Bristol are all world-class cities with theatres, art galleries, and museums.

Ireland

With a warm welcome and good craic guaranteed, a stay in Ireland lets you discover an island of contrasts. From the bright lights of Dublin, Cork, Galway and Limerick in the Republic of Ireland and Belfast and Londonderry in Northern Ireland, to the breathtaking countryside in between - Ireland can deliver a host of activities along the way! So go on, catch a flight or ferry to Ireland and experience the magic for yourself

Maldives

Sun, sand and sea, a thousand ‘Robinson Crusoe’ islands, massive lagoons with different depths and infinite shades of blue and turquoise, dazzling underwater coral gardens; a perfect natural combination for the ideal tropical holiday destination.The Maldives are a collection of 1190 coral islands situated Southwest of Sri Lanka. Since the majority of this country's income is through tourism there is not a short supply of beautiful resorts to stay at, and many of the islands are entirely resort islands. Such as Angsana Resort and Spa, Asdu Sun Island, Coco Island, and Kuramathi Blue Lagoon.

New zealand

New Zealand’s awesome landscapes, lush forests, amazing wildlife and pleasant climate make it a haven for many outdoor activities, and a great place to unwind. New Zealand society is diverse, sophisticated, and multicultural, and the honesty, friendliness, and openness of Kiwis will impress you. And the great advantage of New Zealand is that all of its diverse physical, cultural, and artistic landscapes are so close to each other! New Zealand has known human habitation for less than a thousand years. Before then, it was a land of forests, mountains and beaches. The loudest sounds were birdsong, wind and waves.

Scotland

Welcome to Scotland! A land flowing with culture, fascinating history, haggis and whisky! When you visit Scotland you'll leave satisfied, educated and awestruck. The people are friendly and the views are magnificent. The food is as tasty as it is interesting and the whisky is all its cracked up to be! Accommodation in Scotland will take you back to the old days where courtesy and tasteful dwellings are combined with old-school hospitality and warm associations.

Singapore

Singapore was founded as a British trading colony in 1819. It joined the Malaysian Federation in 1963 but separated two years later and became independent. It subsequently became one of the world's most prosperous countries with strong international trading links (its port is one of the world's busiest in terms of tonnage handled) and with per capita GDP equal to that of the leading nations of Western Europe.

Malaysia

In the heart of Asia lies a land of many cultures, wonders and attractions. It's a bubbling, bustling melting pot of races and religions where Malays, Indians, Chinese and many other people live together in peace and harmony. It is also a land of fascinating extremes, where towering skyscrapers look down upon primitive longhouses. Blessed with natural wonders galore, it is perfect for a memorable eco-holiday. With some of the best beaches and diving spots in the world, it is ideal for island getaways. Experience Asia in Malaysia.

Dubai

Dubai offers an extensive horizon of things to do, see, experience and learn. It is surrounded by mysterious deserts, sand dunes and the stunning Hajar Mountains, it is divided by the Creek which is essentially an inlet from the gulf splitting the commercial centre of Dubai in two, and within the city you'll find amazing beach resorts, incredibly high tech buildings all side by side with old traditional houses and mosques giving you a peek of just what variety you can expect from your time in Dubai. Dubai is labeled as the "shopping capital of the Middle East". It is truly a duty free shopper's paradise that gives you more for your money.

Sri Lanka

Travel to Sri Lanka and make your dream Holiday come true! Holiday in Sri Lanka is ideal if you're looking forward to have fun, enjoy the sunshine and frolic in white sandy beaches. If you want to try out eco tourism, Sri Lanka is a marvelous place to spend your vacation. Sri Lanka is one place where you could be in harmony with nature like in no other place. By spending your holiday in Sri Lanka you'll get so much of entertainment out of cheaper trip. A Holiday in Sri Lanka means that you'll have loads of fun, experience a unique culture & heritage at a very affordable price.

North East - India

North East India: They’re untamed and unexplored. They’refull of lush green valleys, lofty mountains and tumultuous rivers. They’re home to an extraordinary range of flora and fauna. They’re the states of North East India, whose natural beauty awaits the traveller looking for something different. Welcome to an India you never knew existed. Welcome to the North East. Begin your travels in the Himalayan Shangrila of Sikkim,where orchids bloom on the hillside. Journey on to the plains of Assam - tea country and producer of more than half of India’s petroleum. Experience sunrise in Arunachal Pradesh, the first part of India to greet the morning sun. Explore the princely traditions of Tripura, the second smallest Indian state. Discover the tribal crafts and culture of Nagaland. Take home exquisite bamboo and cane souvenirs from Mizoram. Enjoy the marionette-like Manipuri dance of the Land of the Jewels, Manipur. Relax in the sylvan surroundings of the Abode of the clouds, Meghalaya.

Uttaranchal - India

Uttaranchal: is a small newly formed state of India, and is the true experience to the first meeting with the Himalayas. Blessed with magnificent glaciers, majestic snow-clad mountains, gigantic and majestic peaks, valley of flowers, skiing slopes and dense forests travel to Uttaranchal is a dream come true. A pious destination for the religious with the four most sacred and revered Hindu sites Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri nestled in the mighty mountains; a challenging destination for the adventure seekers with sports that are offered like River Rafting, mountaineering, skiing and trekking; and a picturesque destination for the nature lovers with breathtaking panoramic view of Himalayas, and the lovely valley of flowers. Most of the famous hill stations other than the Capital of the state Dehradun, like Mussorie and Nainital are situated in Uttaranchal. The Corbett National Park and the Rajaji wildlife park famous for its Tigers and wildlife is another reason to visit the state. No part of the state lacks in the natural splendour that Mother Nature has bestowed on the state and travel to Uttaranchal certainly leaves behind the most beautiful memories.

Uttar Pradesh - India

Uttar Pradesh: "I had been to other countries - in Europe, Asia and the Middle East - but none of them had provided even half as much variety, or so much to see and experience and remember, as this one State in northern India. You can travel from one end of Australia to the other, but everywhere on that vast continent you will find that people dress in the same way, eat the same kind of food, listen to the same music. This colourless uniformity is apparent in many other countries of the world, both East and West. But Uttar Pradesh is a world in itself."- Ruskin Bond.

Uttar Pradesh is the rainbow land where the multi-hued Indian Culture has blossomed from times immemorial. Blessed with a variety of geographical topographies and many cultural diversities, Uttar Pradesh, has been the hub of activity of historical and religious heroes like - Rama, Krishna, Buddha, Mahavira, Ashoka, Harsha, Akbar and Mahatma Gandhi. Rich and tranquil expanses of meadows, perennial rivers, dense forests and fertile soil of Uttar Pradesh have contributed numerous golden chapters to the annals of Indian History. Dotted with various holy shrines and pilgrimage places, full of joyous festivals, it plays an important role in the politics, education, culture, industry, agriculture and tourism of India.

Area wise, it is the fourth largest State of India. In sheer magnitude it is half of the area of France, three times of Portugal, four times of Ireland, seven times of Switzerland, ten times of Belgium and a little bigger than England. The administrative and legislative capital is Lucknow and the judicial capital is Allahabad. Other notable cities include Agra, Aligarh, Ayodhya, Varanasi (Benares), Gorakhpur, Kanpur.

Gujarat - India

Gujarat: Situated on the western part of the Indian sub-continent, Gujarat derives its name 'Gujaratta' meaning the land of Gurjars. The Gurjars passed through Punjab and settled in some parts of Western India, which came to be known as Gujarat.

Gujarat today offers a wide range of the most spectacular attractions - which includes breathtaking locations and scenic landscapes. Gujarat is also a melting pot of several civilizations resulting in a vibrant culture and a rich heritage. Gujarat is home to several architectural marvels, witnesses of its glorious history and pilgrim centres for many faiths. Finally, it is also the land of several mythological & historical figures like the legendary Krishna and Mahatma Gandhi the apostle of non-violence.

Maharashtra - India

Maharashtra:Located in the northern center of peninsular India, Maharashtra is surrounded by the Arabian sea in the west, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh on the north, Madhya Pradesh in the east and Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh on the south. Mumbai is the capital of Maharashtra, which derives its name from the Goddess Mumba Devi.

Mughal rulers from Delhi tried their best to keep this region under their control. From the middle of the 17th century, a new group of warrior people came to dominate the scene in Maharashtra and elsewhere in India called Marathas. The origin of Marathas is still debatable, but what is known is that they stole the limelight from the great Mughals and at one point of time even captured Delhi. It was only after defeating the Marathas that the English could establish their rule in India. Shivaji was the first great ruler of Marathas and it was he who paved the way for future Maratha influence on India.

Rajasthan - India

Rajasthan: Located on the northeast borders of India, Rajasthan stretches out in to the Thar Desert. Rajasthan, literally translated as the land of kings & princes, is the ultimate confluence of history, chivalry, romance, rugged natural beauty, art & crafts and colour.

Against the backdrop of the dull desert landscape & the once impregnable sand coloured forts. It is the land of colourful people and attire, who narrate amazing legends of heroism and romance. Legends, which still resound from its equally amazing architecture standing erect, a witness to a glorious bygone era.

Today, years after the last bugle was sounded, and after the warring kingdoms of erstwhile Rajputana, sheathed their swords, the desert appears romantic, its arts, the expression of a brave yet sensitive race, its architecture the embodiment of strength and grace. It is as if, in celebration of life itself.

The appearance of its grand forts perched on rocky hills still tell the story of the bravery of its men and the stoic sacrifice of its women, and the chivalrous old world manners of all.

The magic of Rajasthan is unequalled in the world for its heritage, culture, safaris, sand dunes and lush green forests with its wildlife. Rajasthan is often expressed as huge open-air museum with relic so well preserved for the travellers and the curious of the day.

It is action-packed with outdoors too; take a safari on horses, camels, elephants or even jeeps with the Aravalis - India's oldest mountain range in the backdrop, or caress your eyes on the sloppy sand dunes, or trail a tiger or just watch birds on wetland. Or you can choose to pamper yourself in the lavish heritage properties.

Take part in the vibrant dances with swords & swirling skirts, with lamps & horses. Buy exclusive craft of mirror work embroidery, metal and leather craft. Exalt the beautiful miniature & pichwai paintings. Taste the distinct cuisine. Rajasthan has something for everyone, just choose your activity. Live like a prince in the land of kings & princes.

Goa - India

Goa: Goa, on the west coast of India is a land of swaying palms, miles of golden sands, lush greenery, an incredible cultural heritage, magnificent churches, temples and monuments and a unique cultural synthesis of the east and west.

The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendours of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favourite with travellers around the world. But then, Goa is much more than just beaches and sea. It has a soul which goes deep into unique history, rich culture and some of the prettiest natural scenery that India has to offer. Much of the real Goa is in its interiors, both inside its buildings and in the hinterland away from the coastal area.

Over the centuries various dynasties have ruled Goa. Rashtrakutas, Kadambas, Silaharas, Chalukyas, Bahamani Muslims and most famously the Portuguese have been rulers of Goa.

Goa was liberated by the Indian Army from Portuguese colonisation on December 19, 1961 and became an Union Territory along with the enclaves of Daman and Diu. On May 30, 1987 Goa was conferred statehood and became the 25th state of the Indian Republic.

Andhra Pradesh - India

Andhra Pradesh: Andhra Pradesh, known as the "Rice Granary of India" has a coastline of 1000 kms with eight of its 23 districts having direct access to the sea. The medieval city of Hyderabad is its capital. The main languages that are spoken in Andhra are Telugu, English, Urdu, Hindi.

It uniquely combines history, beaches and mountains into a great travel destination. The state of Andhra Pradesh is recognized variously-for its legendary dynasties; for its most revered temple, Tirupati; for its beautiful language, Telugu; for its lacquer toys and beautiful weaves; rich literature and the vibrant Kuchipudi. The Places to see in Andhra Pradesh are Sri Venkateswara temple at Tirupati, Charminar, Salar Jung Museum, Golconda Fort in Hyderabad and Buddhist viharas at Nagarjunasagar. Andhra Pradesh had been an important seat of rich Buddhist heritage. Andhra Pradesh has also the largest IT park and largest Film City in Asia.

The climate is generally hot and humid. The summer temperatures vary from 20C to 40C, while in winter it is between 13C and 32C. The South-West monsoons play a major role in determining the climate of the state. The North-East monsoons are responsible for about one-third of the total rainfall in Andhra Pradesh. Best time to visit Andhra Pradesh is October to February.

Karnataka - India

Karnataka: Situated in the southern part of India, the state of Karnataka spreads over the Deccan Plateau. At 300B.C., it had formed the southern tip of the Mauryan Empire. Its boundaries enlarged or receded swaying to the drum beats of history & today it accounts for a sixteenth area of India & has a population of about 45 million. Its language is Kannada & its people are known as kannadigas. The three distinct regions are a narrow coastal area along Arabian Sea; high hills, the Western Ghats; & sprawling plains towards the east.

Karnataka popularly known for Carnatic Music through out the World has given much more to the World than Carnatic Music, a unique form of Classical Music patronized by many across the continents. Karnataka with all its richness in culture and traditional grandeur is also one of the fastest growing states in terms of industries and facilities. Karnataka is also known as the Capital of Agarbathi (Incense Sticks), Arecanut, Silk, Coffee and Sandal Wood. All this is apart from the fact that it has been the culture center for hundreds of years and its testimony stands spread across the state pulling millions of tourists from all parts of the world to Karnataka. Karnataka was known as Karunadu (elevated land) in ancient times. It is also believed that the name Karnataka has come from "Kari-nadu" meaning the land of black soil say the scholars, & some others hold that Karunadu also means beautiful country; either way the land is celebrated as beautiful throughout its ancient literature.

The hilly uplands of Malanad, One of the wettest regions of the world, where the bamboo flourishes wild & areca, teak, rosewood & matti are grown. It is also the home of the stately gaur & langur. In its southern reaches frequent kheddas are held to capture roaming groups of elephants. Also the swift deer & the deadly tiger, roam animatedly in the forests.

The capital city of Bangalore is called India's science city. It is also called the Electronics city because most of the country's basic electronic industries are based here. It is one of the fastest growing city in Asia. Bangalore is also regarded as the Silicon valley of India. The city houses a large number of IT companies both indian and multinational. Bangalore was known for its salubrious climate, which however is now being debated because of the accelerated progress of modern industry. It is also called an air-conditioned city and a pensioner's paradise.

Tamilnadu - India

Tamilnadu: Tamil Nadu, the land of the Tamils, is one of the most fascinating of the Indian States. With an area of 130,058 sq km and population over 55 million, Tamil Nadu is the 11th largest state in India. The Union Territory of Pondicherry is a small enclave in the district of South Arcot. Tamil Nadu is the home of Dravidian art and culture. A rich tradition of literature and arts has flourished in Tamil Nadu for about 2000 years. Splendid temples that dot the countryside bear witness to the architectural achievements of the Tamils. Tamil Nadu is the traditional home of the famous classical dance Bharathanatyam. Marvellous old temple towns all over Tamil Nadu with their ancient rituals and festivals are living museums.

Traditionally, the land of Tamils has been divided into 5 major physiographic divisions - the Kurinji or mountainous region, the Mullai or forest region, the Palai or arid region, the Marudham or the fertile plains and the Neidhal or coastal region. The history of the Tamils present an exciting pageant of a powerful civilization whose origin dates back to ancient times. It is clear that the Tamils, who belong to the Dravidian race, were the first major occupants of the country and settled in the northwestern part of India long before the coming of the Indo-Aryans. Excavations have revealed that the features of the people of the Indus Valley Civilization bore a strong resemblance to this race. However, with the advent of the Aryans, the Dravidians were pushed back into the deep south where they ultimately settled.

There are more than 30,000 temples in this state, which has given Tamil Nadu the title 'Land of Temples'.The splendid festivals of Tamil Nadu, the feast of music and dance, the shimmering silk of Kanchipuram - all these linger long in the memory of the visitor.

The places of tourist interest in the state are Chennai, the capital city; Mamallapuram, the beach resort; Kanchipuram, the land of 1000 temples; Madurai famous for the Meenakshi temple; Rameshwaram, Tiruchirapalli and Thanjavur, the temple trio; the charming hill resorts of Yercaud, Ootacamund and Kodaikanal and Kanyakumari, the southern tip of India, renowned for its fantastic sunrise and sunset.

Kerala - India

Kerala: Gods own country as it is commonly known is one of the most favourite holiday destination in India. With the Arabian Sea on the west, the western ghats towering 500 - 2700m on the east and networked by forty-four rivers, Kerala is truly a paradise for tourists. Kerala means "land of coconuts" and the palms shade nearly the entire state from the tropical sun. The beach at Kovalam is regarded my many as the best in India, apart from the tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, lush green hill stations and exotic wildlife, ayurvedic health resorts, enchanting art forms, magical festivals, historic and cultural monuments, an exotic cuisine… all of which offers a unique experience.

Kerala is one of the ten 'Paradises Found' declared by the National Geographic Traveler, for its diverse geography and overwhelming greenery. It is a land much acclaimed for the contemporary nature of its cultural ethos, and much appreciated for the soothing, rejuvenating paradise that it is.

Still Kerala has lot of untold secrets which is still not developed as a full-fledged tourist destination. For eg: Peruvannamuzhi, Kakkayam etc..