Category: Beaches

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Architectural Beaches South India

Mahabalipuram – the glorious mix of ancient temples, monuments and beach resorts

Situated right in the heart of Kancheepuram district around 60 kms away from the Chennai city is the blue gemstone of the Indian heritage called Mahabalipuram. Regarded as one of the oldest cities in India, Mahabalipuram is famous for a host of ancient temples, monuments, and friendly nature of its local people. Most of the monuments situated in the district were built by Pallava dynasty rulers.

We bring you a list of some of the most popular attractions of the town to explore.

Arjuna’s Penance Sculpture

One of the major attractions in Mahabalipuram, Arjuna’s Penance sculpture is visited by thousands of tourists from around the globe. As the name suggests, the monument depicts the series of events that took place in the life of Arjuna during his penance period. These events of his life have been carved on two huge rocks atop which lies a collecting pool. It is around 43 feet high.

The art of sculpture on the rocks is unmatched and detailed way beyond one can imagine in that time.

Thirukadalmallai Temple

Thirukadalmallai temple appears like a pearl in the heart of Mahabalipuram. It is known by several names in the country. Some of which are Sthalasayana Perumal Temple and Divya Desams. According to the Indian mythology, this temple has been dedicated to the Lord Vishnu. This is one of the 108th temples built to prove devotion towards the Lord Vishnu.

This temple was built by Pallava rulers and saints who were known as Tamil Azhvars. This temple is one of its type in the country. It stands out for its ancient Dravidian art.

Cave Temples

Adorned by some 8 cave temples, Mahabalipuram is recognized for its cave arts and temples commissioned by the Pallava rulers. Touted as one the finest masterpieces from the ancient India, most of the sculptures in the caves are dedicated to the deities in Indian Mythologies. The detailing of these sculptures is unmatched. Names of these temples are Varaha, Krishna, Tiger, Panchapandava, Mahishasuramardini, Trimurti, Atiranachanda, and Kotikal.

Shore Temple                                       

Major attraction breathing amid cultural amalgam of Mahabalipuram is the Shore Temple. Built by Pallava rulers, the temple has their indelible traces of style, art, and culture. Just like most places and other major attractions in Mahabalipuram and in other parts of South India, Shore Temple is also known by a different name—7 Pagodas.

According to local traditional beliefs, Shore temple had 7 Pagodas before a ravenous Tsunami struck down the temple in around 13th century AD. There are several sculptures and other art pieces on the temple.

Pancha Rathas

The exact English translation of Pancha Rathas is five chariots. These Pancha Rathas have been named after the five Pandavas of the Hindu epic Mahabharatha.

Pancha Rathas has been carved out on pink granite. One of the tallest monuments is around 40 feet high. Like other temples and monuments in Mahabalipuram, Dravidian style and art dominate Pancha Rathas.

The catastrophic Tsunami in 2004 has affected many monuments in the district. However, this monument stands tall without a single sign of damage.

Sadras

Mahabalipuram is home to exquisite beach resorts that, one of the beach resorts is Sadras which has taken full advantage of the striking landscape. The beaches that surround Mahabalipuram are a glorious sight to watch as they are beset by beautiful, casuarinas groves.

The vibrant green beautifully contrasts with the sparkling white beaches is a sight that is a delight to everyone. This beach resort is located 13 kilometers outside of Mahabalipuram.

How to reach Mahabalipuram

Instead of Mahabalipuram, you can choose to take a flight to Chennai Airport on regular basis. The driving distance between Chennai and Mahabalipuram is 56 km, while the in-flight distance from Chennai to Mahabalipuram is 48 km.

There are no regular or proper train services from other major cities to Mahabalipuram. The nearest train station is Chengalpattu Junction.

Mahabalipuram is well connected to other major cities of the country via regular buses.

Food

While you are at this destination, look out for dishes such as try Grilled Fish, Vegetarian thali, Prawns, Lobsters, Crabs and more. South Indian cuisine lovers can try a typical South Indian platter which consists of Idli, Dosa, Appam, Vada, Upma Sambhar, Sweet Pongal, Kesari, Payassam and much more 

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Beaches Western Ghats

Scoot out for a much awaited break at Malvan

Malvan happens to be a picture perfect fishing port town located in the Konkan district of Maharashtra. Apart from the beaches where you could relax and spend some wonderful time, the place also has a few historical monuments which make the place perfectly balanced on the scale of natural and manmade beauty.

How to reach

Dabolim in the northern part of Goa is the nearest airport to the place which is a few hours ride away. Kudal is the nearest railway station belonging to the Konkan railways and located about 30 kilometers from the town. However, buses remain the best option to travel to the place. Mumbai-Goa highway is a clean road and Malvan is located at about 35 kilometers west of the highway, so getting there shouldn’t be a problem.

Places to visit

Among the many reasons to visit Malvan, here are a few that may compel to form your next trip around the beautiful fishing port.

Sindhudurg Fort- The great fort was built by the great Maratha warrior Shivaji in 1664. The ferry services which will take you to the fort from the town begin their rounds early in the morning from 8 AM. The fort is a magnificent monument full of reminiscent of the era this fort belongs to.

Rock Garden- After a day well spent watching the monuments and sightseeing around the place, Malvan is the best place to relax on the rocks. situated near the Arase Mahal, on the rocky shore of Malvan, it is a marvelously built garden overlooking the Chivla beach. enjoy the calm of the seaside and the sunset and sunrise amidst its all green and raw vibe, while you are here.

Tarkali- Located at a distance of about 6 kilometers from Malvan, is Tarkali. The very long and narrow stretch of the beach is the biggest attraction of the place and being very close to Malvan, the place deserves a visit.

Devbag- The long beach around the coast, an exquisite boat ride to the tsunami island is the biggest attractions of the place. The Sangam point can also be seen from here. Parasailing and other water sports add a lot more fun to the overall joy of having visited the place.

 Beaches Malvan is surrounded by striking beaches which are refreshing and relaxing and offer you a wide view of the calm sea. As many sea birds visit here in thousands the place is a great sight for the visitors.

Boat rides in Karli backwaters can be enjoyed by visitors. Scuba diving on the Dandi beach, located at around a 3 kilometers distance from the main Malvan bus stand, is one rather sporty thing to do in otherwise peace-loving town. However, the scuba diving facilities are not the best in the country, but coming at half the price of other places, it is definitely worth a shot.

Food

Malvan will offer you some of the most delicious seafood that you may have ever tasted in your life. Hotel Chaitanya near Malvan Bharad road is known for authentic Malvani food and offers some of the best-fried fish. There are other great places near the Malvan fish market which take your taste buds on an amazing roller coaster ride. Other restaurants to try include Atithi Bamboo, Swami Family Restaurant, Only Fish and Ocean’s Paradise.

Stay

Malvan has many hotels and resorts that remain booked almost all the time in a year. Ai beach home, Manorama Niwas, Sagar Sangam and the Tian beach resort stands out among the many other places to stay.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the place is from October to May and as the season approaches, you need to start finding all those fancy backpacks. Malvan acts both as a foodie’s paradise and a great tourist spot and one trip to the place is enough for you to fall in love with it.

Malvan serves as not just the perfect spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. With one of the best beaches in India and cheaper water sports such as at Tarkali, Malvan is a place that must be visited once in a lifetime.

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Beaches Western Ghats

Scoot out for a much awaited break at Malwan

Malwan happens to be a picture perfect fishing port town located in the Konkan district of Maharashtra. Apart from the beaches where you could relax and spend some wonderful time, the place also has a few historical monuments which make the place perfectly balanced on the scale of natural and manmade beauty.

How to reach

Dabolim in the northern part of Goa is the nearest airport to the place which is a few hours ride away. Kudal is the nearest railway station belonging to the Konkan railways and located at about 30 kilometers from the town. However, buses remain the best option to travel to the place. Mumbai-Goa highway is a clean road and Malwan is located at about 35 kilometers west of the highway, so getting there shouldn’t be a problem.

Places to visit

Among the many reasons to visit Malwan, here are a few that may compel to form your next trip around the beautiful fishing port.

Sindhudurg Fort- The great fort was built by the great Maratha warrior Shivaji in 1664. The ferry services which will take you to the fort from the town begin their rounds early in the morning from 8 AM. The fort is a magnificent monument full of reminiscent of the era this fort belongs to.

Rock Garden- After a day well spent watching the monuments and sightseeing around the place, Malwan is the best place to relax on the rocks. situated near the Arase Mahal, on the rocky shore of Malvan, it is a marvelously built garden overlooking the Chivla beach. enjoy the calm of the seaside and the sunset and sunrise amidst its all green and raw vibe, while you are here.

Tarkali- Located at a distance of about 6 kilometers from Malvan, is Tarkali. The very long and narrow stretch of the beach is the biggest attraction of the place and being very close to Malwan, the place deserves a visit.

Devbag- The long beach around the coast, an exquisite boat ride to the tsunami island is the biggest attractions of the place. The sangam point can also be seen from here. Parasailing and other water sports add a lot more fun to the overall joy of having visited the place.

 Beaches Malvan, the popular fishing port town in Konkan region of Maharashtra is surrounded by beautiful beaches which are refreshing and relaxing, can offer you a wide view of the calm sea where sightseeing can be done as many sea birds visit here in thousands making it a great sight for the visitors. Boat rides in Karli backwaters are also enjoyed by visitors.

Scuba diving on the Dandi beach, located at around a 3 kilometers distance from the main Malwan bus stand, is one rather sporty thing to do in otherwise peace-loving town. However, the scuba diving facilities are not the best in the country, but coming at half the price of other places, it is definitely worth a shot.

Food

Malwan will offer you some of the most delicious seafood that you may have ever tasted in your life. You can have all the different varieties of it in Malwan. One place to go is Hotel Chaitanya near Malvan Bharad road and it offers some of the best-fried fish. There are other great places near the Malvan fish market which take your taste buds on an amazing roller coaster ride.

Stay

Malvan has many hotels and resorts that remain booked almost all the time in a year. Ai beach home, Manorama Niwas, Sagar Sangam and the Tian beach resort stands out among the many other places to stay.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the place is from October to May and as the season approaches, you need to start finding all those fancy backpacks. Malwan acts both as a foodie’s paradise and a great tourist spot and one trip to the place is enough for you to fall in love with it.

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Adventure Beaches South India Spiritual Hubs

Murudeshwar – much more than just a religious site

Situated right in the heart of Karnataka, Murudeshwar is one of the best towns in the country with a reflection of ancient Indian heritage. The temple is also popular for its second tallest statue of Shiva in the world. According to Indian mythology, Lord Shiva was also recognized as Murudeshwar and, thus, the town got its name. The temple has been established on the coast of the Arabian Sea.
Here is ghoomophiro list of activities you can enjoy while at this spiritual hub.

Murudeshwar Beach Activities

The beach at this holy place is frequented by tourists from around the globe. People traveling to Karnataka in South India make it a point to pay the visit to the famous temple without missing the opportunity. Although there is no provision for water sports on the beach, tourists can indulge in swimming and other fun activities on the beach. This beach is also of the world’s second tallest statue of Shiva. One can enjoy tattoos all over their body and also indulge in water sports. Water sports are one of the reasons for attracting huge crowds at this seaside town.

Water Diving in Netrani Island

Murudeshwar is also known for a range of options for tourists who want to explore the town with a different perspective. One such exemplary option is Scuba Diving in Netrani Island. Netrani Island has been declared one of the best places for scuba diving in India. People from different corners of India throng the town every year to experience the fun.

The Lord Shiva Statue Park

The Lord Shiva statue is the main highlight of this park, which is surrounded by greenery and various flowering plants. There are a variety of stone sculptures that enhance the beauty of this place. You can pay a visit to this park and relax for some time while beholding the beauty of the statue, sculptures, and just everything around. An artificial fall is another major attraction of the park.

Jama Masjid in Murudeshwar

After a Jama Masjid in New Delhi, the other one lies in the heart of Murudeshwar at Bhatkal town. Jama Masjid in Murudeshwar is renowned for its old Indian heritage. It is a three-storey mosque with a basement. People from around the world pay the visit to this city to see this place. Taking a light stroll around Jama Masjid premises helps you unwind and fill you with the undiscovered spirituality sprinkled around the area.

Visit Murudeshwar Fort

One of the major attractions in Murudeshwar is a fort right behind the Murudeshwar temple. According to Indian mythology, the fort was built in the era of Vijayanagara kings. The fort was later renovated by none other than Sultan of Mysore—Tipu Sultan.

If you are in Murudeshwar, you must pay a visit to Murudeshwar Fort without which your trip is incomplete.

Go Shopping on the Temple Road 

There are several shops on the temple road in Murudeshwar. You can buy loads of religious stuff to take back home as souvenirs of this holy place in South India.

Idols, Jewelry, and wall hangings for homes are best choices for souvenirs. You can also buy the pictures of Lord Shiva.

How to reach Murudeshwar

The place is well connected by both road and rail to the rest of Karnataka and the country. The nearest airport is at Mangalore Airport about 153 km away to the south. Murudeshwar railway station is just 2 kms away from the town and most trains halt at the Murudeshwara station. One can also board a bus to Murudeshwar which is available from Bangalore.

Food

From South-Indian to North-Indian and Chinese cuisines, the restaurants in this place are a huge hit among travelers. One must try the local delicacies of the area such as Dosa, Bisi Bele Bath, Akki Roti, Jolada Roti, Idli, Vada, Sambhar, Kesari Bath, Ragi Mudde, Uppittu.

Some of the best hotels to stay are Mavalli Beach Heritage Home, an absolutely amazing place to stay. Another good option to stay is RNS Guest Home which offers a superb sea view. The Wild Woods Spa and Resort is an excellent weekend getaway amidst nature.

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Beaches Corporate Outings South India

Must Do’s while in Puducherry!!

Located at a distance of 160 km to the south of Chennai, Puducherry being a former French colony is still hovered by that ambiance. It should be visited by you at least once in your lifetime for the following reasons.

Aurobindo Ashram

This ashram was founded in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo when he decided to withhold from public view and carry on with his spiritual growth. It is now visited by hordes of spiritual seekers from all over the globe. If inner peace is what you are looking for, this is where you should be heading. The ashram also gives a lot of importance to Yoga.

Beaches

Beaches add on to the grandeur of Puducherry. While the early morning serenity inspires awe, the radiance of the streets boasting of fun, food, and frolic in the evening hypnotizes one into its charm. Unlike other beaches in India, they are cleaner and well kept.

Sunrise

Watching the sunrise is one of those things by which one can never get bored of and if you want to witness a magical one, you should be in Puducherry. The sight of the sun coming out of the azure sea can lift your heart and be a good start to your day!

Cuisine

Puducherry cuisine is the perfect blend of various customs and cultures. A lot of sea- food can be enjoyed here and because of being located in the south, the traditional South Indian fare of idli-dosa is also available. Owing to the French influence, good steak and wine are served in most of the restaurants.

 Churches

There are 32 churches in Puducherry!!  Sacred Heart Church, Church of Our Lady of Angels, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Dupleix Church, and Immaculate Conception Cathedral are a few of them. Their beauty lies in the French architecture and the peace they contain within. Irrespective of your religion, experiencing just a few moments of silence and reflection in these churches can put your mind at peace.

Old Lighthouse

One of Puducherry’s most famous landmarks is this lighthouse which was constructed in 1836 and at that time, used to be considered quite modern because of its distinctive round tower. Although it is not operational now, it still remains a famous tourist attraction.

French War Memorial

The majesty of French War Memorial lies in its simplicity. Along the beach on Gobert Avenue, it is a plain construction of 4 pillars erected in the memory of the French soldiers who lost their lives during the World War I. Not located too far away is the Statue of Dupleix, which was installed in the honour of Joseph Francois Dupleix, a Governor General of the French Establishment in India.

Scuba diving

You do not need to go abroad for an adventurous activity like scuba diving. You can have your breath taken away by going under-sea in Puducherry only. February-April and September-November are the best times for undertaking this activity at this place.

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Asia Beaches Travel Trends

Bangkok- Why should men have all the fun!

Bangkok is notoriously popular among men, especially the Asians who are on a lookout to have some adult themed fun through the weekend.

For a change, there are more right reasons to visit Bangkok. It could just be a fabulous place for women too and she can make the most of her vacation.

The list of activities to indulge in includes a heavenly shopping experience, a day at a beauty spa, afternoon tea, some low octane sports and not to forget, and a great night out with same-sex partners in crime. Evenings are just as fun taking a stroll in the city and the spicy street food on the way is just an icing on the cake.

 So in case you are planning to spend a week or two in the beautiful country, we have narrowed down a list of activities to do order to make the fullest of your trip.

The shopping run

Bangkok is tantamount with amazing shopping and fabulous malls. Girls don’t forget to visit the world’s largest shopping street comprising 4,332 Shops and 1,285,000 Square Meters of Shopping on a Single Mile!

Bangkok offers a variety of shopping experiences right from Siam Paragon, where you can window shop through the high-end store windows, to Platinum Mall, just down the street. Inside the Platinum Mall, you’ll find literally thousands of shops all selling men’s and women’s fashions. Central World is the biggest shopping mall in Bangkok and also the most popular one with trendy fashion brands.

Karaoke

Unleash the inner singer in you with the Karaoke nights. The ,is located in Thonglor and makes you sing your favorite songs in front of a live audience. Always fantasized to become a rock star eh? This is the place!
The Chocolate Buffet

Don’t be misled by the term Chocolate Buffet as what you will end up finding afternoon tea. Sukhothai hotel is a must visit on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday where it hosts an afternoon tea in their lounge. The travelers are served with fancy French
tea or a glass of champagne. The other things the table includes is savory
sushi, mini chicken pies, and cucumber sandwiches. At only 900 baht, afternoon
tea here is not only delightful and tastes great but also the great value.

The Tasty Food Tour

The Bangkok Food Tour is a great initiation which takes you on a walking tour of
the Bang Rak area near Saphan Taksin BTS. There you will discover plenty of
great restaurants and stalls offering convenient and delicious meals. The Food
Tour experience begins every morning for three hours and during the cool
seasons from November to February an afternoon tour sets out at 14:00.
Beaches

The next thing is to de-stress in Bangkok. So just head south to some of the best beaches in the world, something you just can’t miss in Thailand.
You can board a bus just 3 hours south and end up sipping a mojito on some white sand before sunset. Koh Samet is a popular island among Thai and expat locals and the place is perfect for a real party experience on weekends.


Bangkok markets

Chatuchak is the biggest and most popular market in Thailand and a famous shopping hub studded with smaller, more eclectic shops and markets.

A place for adventurers

 There are fabulous activities to keep up the adventurous spirit right from riding elephants to flying through the jungles or seeking the depths of the ocean. The tourist spots in Thailand are bustling with other independent travelers looking for those unique adventurous experiences. Its place that gives you the perfect opportunity to make new friends and create some memories together!

Women safety in Bangkok is paramount as far as the authorities are concerned. So,

don’t hesitate, women, book your flights now!

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Beaches Corporate Outings Rejoice Western India

The scenic mesmerising attractions at Daman and Diu

Two small enclaves in the westernmost part of the country, Daman and Diu are bounded on all sides by the Indian state of Gujarat. The places fall on the mouth of the Daman Ganga River and combined together, they form two of the most exquisite tourist spots in the country.

How to reach

The Daman airport is well connected with the Mumbai and the Vadodara airport. The nearest domestic and international airport to Daman and Diu is Mumbai, located at a distance of 193 Kms. From Mumbai, there are six weekly flights that would take you to Diu.

The nearest located railway station to Daman is Vapi, which is only 12 km away from the city. The Delwada railway station is closely located to Diu.

Places to visit

Devka Beach (Daman)- Devka beach is a pure beauty. The view of the sunset while sitting on the beach is a sight to savor. The untouched beauty of the beach is mesmerizing as it has been kept unspoiled, pure and charming. The well-maintained cleanliness and the crystal blue water makes want to not ever leave the place. The beach also has a special Amusement Park where you can indulge in a variety of recreational activities.

Cathedral of Bom Jesus (Daman) – Due to the strong Portuguese connection since the earlier times, the churches display a remarkable and brilliant roman styled architecture. One such beautiful monument is Cathedral of Bom Jesus, which is amongst the most significant religious monument for them.  The church was built long back in 1603 and the structure still stands beautifully.

The Lighthouse (Daman) – Located at Daman Ganga Bridge, the Lighthouse is one of the major landmarks of the district of Daman. Situated in the premises of a Fort, the Lighthouse is a serene place to visit, especially during the evening. The sunset view from the top of the lighthouse could be one massive reason for its popularity.

Mirasol Lake Garden (Daman) – The calm and serene man-made place makes the tourists spend a few hours in the silence amidst the trees and flowers. The boat rides and fountains add to the overall charm of the garden in a great way. The computer game parlors are also there inside the park to lure in the younger tourists.

St. Jerome Fort (Daman) – Also known as Nani Daman fort, the magnificent monument holds a massive statue of Saint Jerome, one of the earliest fathers of the Catholic Church. The main attractions of this fort are the Church of Our Lady of the sea which is a notable example of Portuguese style architecture and the Portuguese war cemetery which is almost as old as the fort.

Golden beach (Diu) – The golden sand beach is one of the highlights of Diu providing a mesmerizing view of the deep oasis of the Arabian sea. The astonishing view of the sunrise and sunset from the beach is breathtaking.

St. Paul Church (Diu)- One of the best pieces of architecture in the entire region, St. Paul church is a great reminder of the Portuguese influence in Diu. One of the highly visited religious monuments in the area is dedicated to ‘Our lady of immaculate conception).

Nagoa Beach (Diu)- One of the centers for the thrilling water sports in the crystal blue waters of the Arabian sea, Nagoa beach quite popular among the tourists. When the beach is not in chaos due to the water sports, its quite calm and peaceful.

Naida caves (Diu)- The Naida caves are located on the periphery of the great Diu fort. The biggest attraction about this place is a long channel of tunnels which are a cause for amazement for an average tourist.

Activities to do in Daman and Diu

Diu- Water sports are quite popular in the region and the adventurous waters of the Arabian Sea, at the Nagoa beach offers some of the best water sporting events the tourists could hope for. The parasailing, surfing, banana boat rides, jet skiing, water zorbing and the hot air balloon rides over the ocean could take the adrenaline junkies to a marvelous ride.

For the kids, there are little boat rides and beach biking where they could have something of themselves to enjoy. The early minutes of evenings are considered to be the best for having a go at these water sports. Apart from the water sports, the tourists can enjoy the bird spotting and dolphin spotting in Diu and along with that, the liberation day festivities shouldn’t be missed as well.

Daman- Talking about the outdoor activities, Daman has no dearth of options to offer the tourists. The adventure junkies can head to the Bordi beach, the Mandva beach and Tarkali beach where snorkeling, para-sailing, water skiing and wind surfing are rather common. The exquisite wildlife is also one other highlight of Daman which offers wildlife photographers and enthusiasts a great opportunity to feel the wild animals in their entire wilderness. Tadoba national park, Sanjay Gandhi national park, and Navegaon national park are the perfect spots for that.

What to eat

There are two basic cultural influences on Daman and Diu, Gujarati and Portuguese and the cuisines also reflects the same. The people here mostly have the access to the sea food for obvious reasons and it is delicious, to say the least. Tawakkal, Pind Punjab da, Hotel Miramar and Daman delight are some of the places you can consider where you could have north Indian cuisines as well.

Best season to visit

The place boasts of a moderate climate throughout the year and can be visited any time. The months of October to February which mark the winter season of Daman are considered the peak time to visit Daman as sightseeing is more comfortable during the day time. You can also take pleasure in water sports and other tourist activities during this time.

Stay

There are many beautiful hotels facing the sea. The rooms are clean and nicely air conditioned. Hotel Emerald, Hotel Sai Kripa and Hotel Blue Lagoon would be our best bets.

The place is perfect for a brief holiday and you must not be hesitant to come here due to the low popularity of the place compared to other holiday destinations in the country.

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Architectural Asia Beaches

Why Israel should be in your next vacation list!!

Mistaken are those who believe Israel is a country for those on a spiritual quest. With its beautiful sandy beaches, rich culture and historical attractions it could be a complete holiday destination. Some places that you should definitely visit are

Jerusalem – the holy city

The city of Jerusalem is the landmark for the three major religions of the world- Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. The place is of religious significance to the above three communities, and to the rest, it is just another tourist spot. The Via Dolorosa is a street in the old city of Jerusalem which was walked by Jesus and leads to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Just a few steps away are the Western Wall, a structure remaining from the Jewish Temple worshiped by the Jews. The Al-Aqsa mosque mentioned in the Quran is also very close to the above place.

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The Temple Mount is the place where Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son and is considered holy by Muslims, Jews, and Christians. Now isn’t that a place to see once in a lifetime?

Tel Aviv – a city that never sleeps

For all the party people on vacation to Israel, there is nothing to get disappointed about as we have something in store for you as well. When in the party mood, head to the vibrant city of Tel Aviv. With its packed nightclubs, cocktail bars, classy eateries and gentry of young and beautiful people, the city comes to life at night.

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While the nights could get rave, days could be spent appreciating the Bauhaus architecture of the city, exploring the traditional Israeli markets and relaxing on the sandy beaches. It has thus been truly billed as the “Miami of the Middle East”.

Yad Vashem, Israel

Israel’s main Holocaust remembrance and education center, Yad Vashem is a somber spot to visit. A place is a significant place for the visitors in order to get a deeper understanding of Israel. The place is a large complex of museums, monuments, exhibition halls with major archives, library, and other resource centers which sprawl over 45 acres.

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Things to Do on your Vacation

A floating session in the Dead Sea

Lying 400m below the sea level, the Dead Sea is regarded as one of the seven wonders of the world. Due to overly rich in minerals and salt, one cannot sink here. So what are you waiting for? Take a float.

This natural property of minerals and salt has made Israel a center for spas, treatments and relaxation therapy. And this has eventually led to the opening of a number of resorts in the proximity of the beaches.

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving at Eilat  

Eilat is the ultimate resort city if you want to cherish the amazing coral reef, beautiful fish, and crystal-clear water. With great weather practically all-year round, tourists come to relax here. The activities you can undertake here are snorkel and/or scuba. Alternatively, while for the less adventurous there’s always Eilat’s impressive Underwater Observatory and nice beaches.

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 Shopping in Israel

A vacation is always incomplete without shopping. Whether you do it for yourself or your closed ones you ought to do that and take back home some memories in the form of souvenirs. Some of the popular streets for shopping in Tel Aviv are DiIzengoff, Shenkin, Herzl, Nakhlat Binyamin, and Levinsky. For pocket-friendly shopping, you can go to Eilat, a small tourist city. Here, apart from souvenirs and gifts, you can get imported electrical appliances and clothes.

The Old city of Jerusalem offers the wide range of artifacts and ornaments made of wood, seashells, leather and straw. It specializes in works of art and folk crafts which is created by the Israeli artists.

What to Eat

For someone in an alien land, food comes as the biggest challenge. In spite of taking any chances, always go for the specialty of the place. For Israeli’s all you need to know is that they love fresh salad and that too with every meal. Their specialty includes Falafels, Hummus, Dolma, Shishlik – skewered charcoal-grilled meat and Shwarma – grilled meat in pita bread. Try out some restaurants like Burgeranch, El Gaucho, HaShamen, Holy Bagel, MacDavid and Mike’s Place.

Places to Stay
Pre-plan your vacation by making prior bookings of your stay. From bed and breakfast to luxury hotels, you will find all kind of stay options in Israel, the choice is all yours. Some of the best places to stay in Israel are the American Colony Hotel, King David and Dan Boutique Jerusalem, Sharon Hotel, The Ritz-Carlton in Herzliya and Leonada Plaza Hotel Haifa.
How to Reach 

To commute within the city, you can use the train, bus, minivans – known as monit sherut or cab services.There is something special about this place that never fails to beguile. With its welcoming aura, energetic cities, beautiful Mediterranean beaches, and elating nature spots abound, your journey will surely an exception.

There is something special about this place that never fails to beguile. With its welcoming aura, energetic cities, beautiful Mediterranean beaches, and elating nature spots abound, your journey will surely an exception.

P.S-> All pictures have been taken from the official site of Israel Tourism Ministry i.e goisrael. Thank You Team.

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Asia Beaches

Asia’s 4 Lesser Known Honeymoon Destinations

Selecting a honeymoon getaway for yourself and your partner might be little tricky as that trip is supposed to be the most romantic and memorable one of your entire life. There are some conventional holiday destinations in Asia like Maldives, Bali, Mauritius and Phuket but listed below are 4 offbeat ones that are excellent options for you to visit in the new phase of your life.

Hoi An, Vietnam

This is a 15th century UNESCO World Heritage town famous for its traditional Vietnamese homes and colossal French colonial houses. Here you will get a chance to completely travel back in time and enjoy delicious food in top class restaurants. You can also relish the lip-smacking street food that this pretty little town has to offer. You should stop in at one of the town’s numbers of tailors and cobblers, where they create something completely bespoke for you to embellish your wardrobes. Staying at the Nam Hai Hotel will give you the added benefit of the beach and a pool

Isle East Indies

You can rent a private island here for yourself and your better half. The feeling of waking up all alone on a marooned island with your husband/wife and the amazing natural beauty is surreal. The island can be reached via Raden Mas, a vintage wooden sailing boat and the house you will be sleeping in is a Javanese Joglo, an antique and ornately hand carved timber structure that was erected in Central Java and brought over to the island piece by piece. Through the house, the natural sea breeze flows and there is a euphoric view of the turquoise sea. Sports lovers can make the most of the activities such as scuba diving, waterskiing, snorkelling and kayaking to neighbouring islands. Alternatively, you can chill and relax on one of your private beaches in peace. Couples must have barbeque dinner onboard Raden Mas boat. Some of them are known to have fallen asleep on deck under the canopy of the twinkling stars.

 Tugu Hotel, Lombok

Known as Puri Dadap Merah, this Honeymoon House is based on the architecture of Java’s Red Aksobya Temple and is filled with antiques from Java and Bali. This makes it a place for veritable and unique experience. It also boasts of a mosaic pool facing the ocean, a private spa and dining terrace as well. Tugu Hotel is located on the beautiful and immaculate white sand beach of Sire and has fishing villages and traditional homes near it that can be visited by foot or a two- wheeler. A horse drawn carriage ride during the sunset is a must here for the couples.

Kyoto, Japan

If you visit Kyoto in Japan in between the last week of March and the mid of April, you will witness the popular cherry blossom season. The place is blissfully serene with its Buddhist temples and Zen gardens offering peaceful moments. You may row around the lovely Hozu-gawa area in a rented boat and spend quality time with your spouse. To make this an even more memorable experience, you should stay at Tawaraya which is known for being one of the best ryokans in not only Kyoto but also in the entire country. It is a world-class accommodation frequented by celebrities, aristocrats and politicians

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Asia Beaches

48 hours of an offbeat trip to unexplored Thailand

Thailand is a country that offers diversity to its tourists. Beautiful shorelines, Thai massages, exquisite cuisines, and sensuous escorts- all of them make it one of the most preferred tourist attractions in the world. Here are two unappreciated places in Thailand which should be on one’s itinerary if one loves to stand out from the herd.

 The Railay beach near Krabi

This is a beach which is not accessible by any modes of transport but boats. After the initial hesitation of getting into the small vessels, one is left awestruck as the destination comes closer. The sight is just breathtaking. Railay Beach boasts of clear blue sea and tranquil atmosphere. One can soak oneself entirely in the solitude of bliss.

For those who crave adventure, the beach  offers a host of activities as well .The humongous limestone cliffs intrigue the keen rock climbers but those who want to have fun in the water, the options are not restrictive either. From Kayaking in the caves to Rafting and other water sports like Quad bikes to a family sunset cruise, all options are available. An Elephant Trek is situated 7 km away and one can make the most of the day from it.

That is just not it! Other than serving your eye, the beach also provides tourists who have a gargantuan appetite with a stupendous list of food items and one of the recommendations is papaya seafood salad which you can even see getting prepared.

Chaweng Regent Beach Resort

Another unnoticed place is the Chaweng Regent Beach Resort in Koh Samui which is five hours away from the Railay beach. This resort is known for its salon and exotic spa services with a variety of more than fifty massages to choose from. Here, authentic Thai spa and massage are highly preferred by the majority of the tourists. The resort also provides customized spa packages for couples and families.

The resort is also a host to a variety of services like Scuba Diving classes, Yoga sessions and Airport Limousine provision for those who want to pamper themselves.

Mostly these two places will keep one occupied for two days but for those who find time can also visit the nearby Big Buddha temple. Its courtyard is filled with vendors selling amulets and cultural art crafts which act as souvenirs for tourists. The area is always buzzing with the local crowd, happily savoring dishes like tuna tartar, oysters, sausages, sushi and what not. In the evening the Buddha statue looks magnificent under the lights of nearby hotels and if the weather is right, it becomes one of the most peaceful soul bewildering sites.

For those who are not interested in the Temple, the Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo is a good alternative. The zoo has daily shows of tigers, sea lions, and some birds. The best part is one can get photographed with them at chargeable prices and one can even hand feed the sea turtles.

Thailand is a place that cannot be fully covered in two days but certainly the above- mentioned recommendations can be kept in mind while organizing an offbeat getaway here.

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