History

The first settlements in Nice date to about 400,000 years back. Evidence of Nice’s origin can be found in the Gallo – Roman ruins in Cimiez. Nice was successively part of the Italian Duchy of Savoia and the Kingdom of Sardinia until it was surrendered to France in 1860. The ancient language of Nissart is not much used, as everybody uses French.

Places to See

Colline du Chateau

The Collin du Chateau is a ruined castle that overlooks the Baie des Anges and harbor and offers a breathtaking view of Nice. There is an elevator that can take you three fourths of the way up the ruined castle, at 90 meters above Nice, the view is pretty good. The castle remains open until sunset.

Museums

Nice has several excellent museums, all well worth a visit.

The Museum of Asian Art

The Museum of Asian Art, located just across the airport street, houses art from India, China and other Asian countries. Entry is free of charge.

Parc Phoenix

The Parc Phoenix is located in the Promenade des Anglais and is open everyday between 9 . 30 a m to 7 . 30 p m  during the period between April and September. It houses more than 2 500 plants in the botanical gardens. Many animal species are also to be seen. Entry fee is about 2 – 3 Euros.

Musee Chagall

The Musee Chagall showcases works by Chagall, the famous French artist, and also has splendid stained glass windows designed by him. Entry fee is about 8 – 9 euros.

Musee Matisse

The Musee Matinee has a vast collection of paintings and sculptures housed in the 17th century Genoese Villa. Entry is free of cost.

Musee et Site Alcheologiques de Cimiez

The Musee et Site Archeologiques de Cimiez is situated next to Musee Matinee. It is open daily from 10 a m to 6 p m except for Tuesdays. The Museum includes the remnants of Gallo – Roman settlement in Cimiez, and a museum featuring documents on the life and times in the Gallo – Roman era. A majority of these exhibits are not in English, still its is worth a visit. There are special activities meant for children included. There is no charge for entry, but on payment of 3 euros you will get a guided tour of the premises.

Other

Spectacular views of Nice are to be had at Mount Boron. The ruined old Fort there offers splendid vistas over the city of Nice to the mountains and over Villefranche and Cap Ferat.

The Village Eze is a beautiful location on the way to Monaco. It is located atop a small mountain. In Eze, attractions include a perfume factory (free entry) and a beautiful cactus garden.

La Turbie and the Grande Corniche are excellent trails for hiking, and offers amazing views of the Riviera.

Gilgit is a safe and stable town, with no security situations. It is frequented by a lot of international tourists. Good facilities, coupled with reasonable accommodation options, make Gilgit a favorite base with a lot of mountaineers. It has been described as having all one would want in Pakistan’s mountains, and is recommended by many as the best place to go the first time one visits the mountains of Pakistan. Gilgit is filled with many places rich with the startling virgin beauty typical of the unexplored world.

Places to See

Gilgit, although perfect value for money, as far as natural beauty is concerned, there are other attractions too. The City of Gilgit had a rich history and there are several historical relics and artifacts. Buddhism was prevalent in Gilgit, and the city is filled with monuments and symbols from the life and teachings of Buddha.

The Naltar Valley

Naltar Valley is one of the most heavenly locations in Gilgit. It is a two hour drive by jeep from the Gilgit Link Road. It has a range of accommodation options ranging from government rest houses to private hotels. There is a ski slope. Trekking, fishing are the various activities. The Statue of Buddha in Kargah should be visited.

Gilgit Suspension Bridge

The Gilgit Bridge over the turbulent Gilgit River is Asia’s largest suspension bridge. It is 182 meters long and 2 meters wide.

Kargah Buddha

Located about 10 kilo meters from Gilgit town, there is a rock sculpture of the Buddha. This dates back to 7th century A D.

The statue is located on a rock near the Kargah Nullah ( Kargah ravine).

Monument of Taj Mughal

The monument was built in celebration of Taj Mughal victory about 700 years ago. This is located at a 30 kilo meter drive by jeep from Gilgit town.

Sher Qilla

The Sher Qilla, meaning “Lion’s Fort”, this is a fort located 38 kilo meters from Gigit. There is a great lake to fish for some trout in Sher Qilla Nullah.

Apart from these, one can travel by jeep to the neighboring areas of Hunza Valley (incredibly beautiful), Astor and Ghizar districts, Skardu city and Ghanchy.

Mountain peaks worth of note are K 2 (Godwin Austen), the world second highest peak at 28, 250 meters, Nanga Parbat (6th highest peak), Mashaburam, Gashaburam and Rakaposhi.

Things to Do

Mountaineering, Trekking, Hiking

The above activities are obvious in Gilgit as the area is ideal. Some areas are restricted. Contact the Pakistani Ministry of Tourism for more information regarding provision of permits.

Air Safaris

The Pakistan International Airlines provide 90 minute Air safaris above the mountain ranges. This is a really amazing experience, and the ultimate thrill of seeing the majestic peaks, gorgeous valleys, glaciers and lakes from the airplane window is indescribable. It has to be experienced.

Fishing

Excellent trout is to be found in the icy waters, and fishing is a major activity. You need to get the necessary permits from the Fisheries Department.

Boating

It is possible to boat in the River Gilgit and River Indus. Rafting is also a possibility.

Camping

A majority of the hotels and inns allow camping and have a provision for facilities.

Gliding

People practice hand gliding. There is also a local association for gliding.

Mountain Biking

The Silk route is an excellent track for cyclists, and provides excellent vistas along with a taste of history and culture. Some Buddhist sites are also in existence over here.

Nature

The area is rich with a diverse variety of fauna, and is famed for Cherry Blossoms, which along with other flowers turn the valley into a riot of colors every spring. Also a large number of varieties of roses, pansies and lilies are to be found here. Willow, pine and fir trees are found in great numbers. The Almond trees which change shade in each state of growth are another attractive feature. Apart from these, apples, peaches, apricots, plums, mulberry, walnuts, persimmon, grapes and pomegranate can be found throughout this region in the period between June and October.

How to get to Gilgit

It is best that you catch a flight to Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital. Onwards, you can either travel by air to Gilgit (takes about 45 minutes) or travel by road using the bus service, or by private vehicles.

Accommodation options

As Gilgit is a popular tourist destination, there is no dearth of accommodation options throughout the city. A variety of places ranging from dirt cheap to up market hotels are to be found in Gilgit.

• Madina Guest House

• New Tourist Cottage
• Gilgit Motel
• Park Hotel
• Gilgit Serena hotel

Bhutan is the only nation that follows Vajrayana Buddhism. The people are much influenced by religion, and this is evident through out the country. Various Buddhist monuments and relics can be found in several places in Bhutan. Bhutan has also been described as a trekker’s paradise. Bhutan is also a land of warm, friendly and hospitable people.

What to see

Nature

Bhutan has an incomparable location in the Himalayas and its foot hills. Picturesque scenery can be seen everywhere in the country, and enjoying the natural beauty is an activity second to none, in this veritable paradise.

The Paro and Bumthang valleys are well worth a visit.

Dzongs

The actual use of dzongs was as fortresses in ancient times. Now, they mainly house the civil offices and monasteries. The dzongs are splendid specimens of architectural splendor. Many art treasures are held in the dzongs.

Kurje Lhakhang

The Kurkje Lhakhang is the oldest Buddhist relic temple in Bhutan. It is located in Jakar.

The Kurje Lhakhang temple is built around a cave, and has a body print of Guru Rinpoche, who is said to have meditated here on his first Bhutan visit.

Taktsang Monastery

Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s nest is in Paro. The temple sits on 1 200 meter high cliff. This is one of the most noted Buddhist sacred sites in the world. Guru Rinpoche was here on his second visit to Bhutan.

Singye Dzong

The Singye Dzong is located in Lhuentse near the Tibetan border. The main temple in the Singye Dzong was established by Yeshi Tsogya. Due to the sensitive location near the border and also because the government wishes to preserve its sanctity, the valley is not permitted for tourists.

It is important to note that to visit all the sacred sites like monasteries, dzongs and temples, one is required to get the necessary permits available at the Cultural Affairs Office in Thimpu.

Things to Do

Trekking

Bhutan is an excellent trekking location, and is a bit on the extreme side. There are no accommodation options in the higher regions other than camping in the wilderness. Fall and spring are the best times for trekking. Treks are an amazing way to admire the stunning natural beauty of Bhutan.

Festivals and Events

The Tshechu religious festivals held in late summer and fall through out Bhutan are a highlight and attract thousands of people. These festivals are times of enjoyment and merriment, but have a very special place in the minds of the people of Bhutan. A notable event is the dances by masked monks, which are choreographed according to ancient instructions. These dances are symbolic and are considered to be a very sacred experience.

Archery

Archery is the national sport of Bhutan, and tournaments are held almost every week in all parts of the country. Spectators are welcomed.

Cuisine

Rice is the stable diet of the Bhutanese, and is had with every meal. Chili is very much liked by the people with their meals or to eat raw, and is very spicy. Cheese is a favorite and is used in a variety of dishes. Ema datsi, Kew datsi and Shamu datsi have cheese in them.

Apart from these, Indian cuisine is also available at many places.

Tea, coffee and Ara (rice or corn spirit) are the main beverages of choice.

Where to Stay

There are hotels in all the developed towns. The main tourist areas have international standard hotels. In Thimphu, Punakha, Jakar, Paro and Gangtey one can find five star hotels.

How to get there

Except for Indian and Bangladeshi citizens, one has to apply for a visa at least 30 days in advance, as there is no issue of visa on arrival. Also, while traveling to Bhutan, one almost always has to make a change from India, Nepal or Thailand. The visa requirements of these countries should also be fulfilled before you set out on your journey. Please contact the Bhutan embassy or consulate in your country for more information.

Languages

Dzonka, Sharchopkha and Bumthangkha are the main languages. English and Hindi are understood by most urban people.

Important

Bhutanese hand woven fabric is prized the world over, and should be bought.

It is important that you wear long sleeved shirts and long pants, as not covering hands and legs is frowned upon. While in temples, foot wear and head clothing should be removed.

Always treat religious symbols like mani stones and stupas with respect. Take care to always pass these objects with your right side nearest to them. Never sit on mani stones or stupas.

Always turn prayer wheels in the clock wise direction.

Siberia tourism has seen a large increase in recent years. People from many European countries other that Russia are also arriving in hordes nowadays. General development that has taken place in this area has now made it possible for the Government to set new standards in tourist experience and increase security standards. New developments that have taken place in communication, hotels and other facilities have helped improve Siberian tourism.

Location

Siberia is a huge area of land, consists almost all of North Russia.

Places to see

Lake Baikal

Lake Baikal, called ‘the pearl of Siberia’ is the largest in Europe in terms of volume. In terms of depth, Lake Baikal is the deepest in the world. Just to provide an idea of lake Baikal’s sheer massiveness, it would take an entire year for all of the rivers in the world to fill it to the top!

Sleigh tours held in winter enable the public to view the  lake along with Barzukin Mountains. During summer and spring, the entire lake seems to explode in a wild variety of colors, as this is when the wild flowers bloom.

More than 1700 species of flora and fauna are to be found in Lake Baikal. Two thirds of  these species is exclusive only to Lake Baikal. You may spot some freshwater seals called Nerpas, Omul Salmon, sables, bears, elk and lynx over here.

The lake is perfect for bird and animal watching, hiking and searching for rare plants. Kayaking and boating in catamarans and rafts is an activity preferred by many tourists. Divers from all over the world come here in seach of adventure. Wind surfing and kite surfing also takes place.

Altai Mountains

Altai Mountains stretch a huge 2000 km of area. The Altai Mountains have a golden luminescence to them, and this golden hue is responsible for the name Altai. The word  Altay ,from which the name is derived, means Golden in Mongolian.

The Altai Mountains are a popular destination for all manner of adventure seekers; rafters, mountain climbing enthusiasts, skiers and many more. Dog sledding ,cycling and cross country skiing is also practiced.

Sayan Mountains

The Sayan Mountains are close to Lake Baikal. The unspoiled location supports the wanderlust of hard core explorers. Many people trek in these mountains.

The Tuvan people stay here, and they farm and tend reindeer, goats and yaks.

The wild life is varied, and the mountains have a large number of snow leopards, wolves, Lynx, the Siberian ibex and wild sheep. The sheep here are the largest in the world.

Lena River

Lena River is situated in Yakutia, and is among longest rivers in the world. This is another excellent spot for cruising. And cruises are held regularly.

The Trans-Siberian railway

A trip in the Trans-Siberian railway would be a totally amazing way of seeing Siberia up close. The incredible journey through the ethereal and constantly changing landscapes is the ultimate train ride in the world.

The Trans-Siberian railway connects Moscow and Vladivostok cover a distance of more than 9,000 km and is one of the longest railways in the world. A trip from Moscow to Vladivostok spans a total of six days and crosses eight time zones.

Adventuring in the lap of nature is what induces the thousands of tourists to keep coming to Siberia year after year.

Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania and is also the largest in terms of size, with a population with 550,000 citizens. The city exhibits amazing buildings showcasing baroque and gothic architecture. The atmosphere of Vilnius is romantic and the historical structures add to the old world charm.

Places to see

Vilnius University

Vilnius University founded in the 14th century is one of the oldest universities in Europe.

There are many rare manuscripts and other documents in the university library and holds one of the biggest map collections in Europe.

The Upper Castle and the Cathedral

These structures are centuries old and amazing examples of classical architecture. Situated on Gediminas hill, the upper castle is a city symbol for Vilnius citizens. Also the Cathedral, which is at the city main square, has been a shrine for the city’s catholic population. Also, the Lower Castle, built in the 16th century will be re built beside the Cathedral after refurbishment.

St Anne’s Church

St Anne’s church, which is a 16th century specimen of magnificent Gothic architecture, comprises of elaborate red brick twists and turns and three majestic towers. The design is a work of art.

St Francis and Bernadine Church

Several ancient paintings on plaster (frescos) have been unearthed after being hidden under a layer of plaster for many centuries. These paintings have been restored.

The Gates of Dawn

The Gates of Dawn is placed on the borders of the Old Town and is held extremely sacred by the Roman Catholics. There is a chapel situated at the Gates and is renowned for a 17th century icon of the Virgin Mary.

The Church of St Peter and St Paul

This shrine is a stunning work of art showcasing the Baroque style of architecture. The interior of the church is decorated by more than 2000 sculptures and bas reliefs.

Cuisine

Any dish comprising of the wide and varied Lithuanian cuisine coupled with a pint of Alus –the Lithuanian beer (which is also the national drink),is specially recommended.

Cepelinai, which is a typical Lithuanian dish, is chiefly potato based.

Transport

The whole of Lithuania is very well connected and the transport facilities are excellent. There are plenty of options to choose from, and travelling should not be a problem.

Accommodation

There is a wide variety of choice for places to stay in Vilnius. You can choose from the luxury hotel chains, which are several in number, luxury apartments and campsites. Also it is possible to stay in the Lithuanian countryside, there is loads of fishing, hunting, boating.

Thus come to Lithuania, enjoy the architecture of ancient times, the art and culture and above all, enjoy a peaceful holiday.

The countryside is uniquely calm and peaceful but if you head to the town there are many attractive places here where you can head to.

Some of these places are known to be quite popular here.

Places to visit around Arlington

There are some great places where you can visit around Arlington.

The Legends of the Game Baseball Museum is located in Ameriquest Field in Arlington and is known to be one of the most remarkable places to visit here. You can learn a lot of history about the Texas Rangers and also about some of the great artifacts about baseball. Some of the players here are Tom Grieves, and Nolan Ryan are some of the famous players here.

River Legacy Park is another major place to visit around here in Arlington. This park is known to be the biggest park in Arlington and has many walking trails, and woods where you can relax and have some fun.

The Arlington Highlands is one of the main places to visit here. There are some quiet and calm area here where you can read and just relax your senses. You can find many tourists here who find this place very peaceful.

The Hurricane Harbor is another place of great tourist interest. This place is situated to the north of the Ballpark and has many water rides here where you can enjoy yourself. You can head onto the beach here and simply swim or take a boat down into the sea.

Another place which is of great tourist interest here is the New Dallas Cowboys Stadium. This stadium is known to be one of the most amazing sites here and this place is simply one of the biggest tourist attractions in the place. This stadium is known to be one of the largest stadium in NFL.

These are some of the interesting places to visit in Arlington. The countryside here is extremely beautiful and there are many activities here where you can indulge into.

You can simply cycle around the place and explore the various tourist sites here or simply head onto the beach and laze around there. There is no dearth of places here where you can find a peace of mind.

The town of Normandy is not too small yet it is one of the most beautiful countryside in France. This place has many attractions and is very popular among tourists from all over the world.

There are many places where you can visit here. The town of Alencon is known to be one of the most beautiful towns here. There are many old houses and the Church of Notre Dame is one of the most popular places here. The Circular Grain Market is also a notable place. This place is known for the lace and the the Alencon Stitch which are known lace making styles popular all over the world. The architecture of the Notre Dame church is quite famous for its magnificent 16th century entrance door and stained glass windows.

Argentan is another place which is known for its famous horse breeding area. There are some beautiful churches in the area like the Saint Germain and Saint Martin. This place is also famous for another style of lace making known as Point d’ Argentan.

Avranches is a place which overlooks the bay and has several places of importance there like the Mont St Micheal Abbey at the Town Hall. There are some gardens and museum here and is a place of great tourist interest. The manuscripts of the Mont St Micheal Abbey is one of the most popular places to visit and see.

Camembert is a small town which is located in Normandy and this village has some half timbered houses. There are places where you can picnic here and also go in for some long walks and get to explore this hamlet more.

Cherbourg is a small fishing village which was developed into a historic port and which had been designed by the Vauban. This place was one of the strategic naval port which was built during the Napoleonic wars. There is a marina here which has over 1000 moorings. This place has been significant for being one of the main areas which has witnessed the wars of the time.

Domfront is one of the major tourist attractions of the place. This place has a medieval town which has timber fronted houses which overlooks the valley and the river Varenne.

These are some of the popular areas where you can visit in Normandy.

There are many things which you can do here too. These are few of the interesting activities in which you can indulge into.

Activities to indulge in here

There are some popular activities to indulge in here. Other than exploring the town, you can simply laze away your time reading your favorite book, or walking down by the river or just helping the local residents in their day to day activity. There are some places where you can head in for trailing, trekking and hiking.

There are some places here where you can find accommodation.

Accommodation

There are a couple of places here where you can find accommodation. There are a number of lodges and guest houses in the area and these places are considered to be the ideal ones.

Dining

There are also some places where you can find amazing French food. The small restaurants at the market place or in the nearby towns have some great stuff to offer.

Normandy is truly an amazing countryside in France. This place is known to be an ideal tourist destination.

These are some of the most amazing places to visit here. The fertile valleys are one of the most tourist friendly areas here. The northern landscape is one of the most amazing and one of the most frequented tourist destinations in the country.

This place is known to be the “wooden castles” in the world. The 18th and the 19th century buildings have been housed here and these places are simply the most remarkable places to visit.

Places to visit in Halsingland

There are many places where you can have a great time in Halsingland. There are a number of churches, monuments and ancient buildings which are housed here. The churches are one of the most amazing places where tourists love to visit here. The rolling mountains are another getaway where you can spend some great time.

There are some farm lands where you can visit here. These farm lands belong to the old residents of the place. There are a number of residents who are into farming and the one attractive factor of the place is that you can get to explore the farm and also if you wish to, you can get onto any of the farmlands and take the cattle out to grazing.

There are many historical places to visit in the place. They are 14th and 15th century ancient yards and structures which are housed here. The gates and the grain stores which were built somewhere around that time, are some of the great attractions here.

Other than this, there are a number of great monuments which you can get to explore here.

What to do in the countryside

There are many things which you can do at the countryside. From reading a book in the farm land to just getting onto the land and looking after grazing cattle on the land, these are certain things which you can do at the countryside. Also, if you wish to you can cycle around the place and explore the town more. From mountain climbing to swimming in the rivers, these are certain activities which you can indulge in.

There are also some amazing places where you can reside in the countryside.

Accommodation

There are some great places where you can seek accommodation. From lodges to guest houses, there are simply many. These places are an ideal place for you to reside in so that you can have a lot of fun.

Dining

There are some great places where you can dine in. The small restaurants at the roadside are simply the best places to hang around in. You can find great local food here. The best quality of lamb and beef is to be found here.

Halsingland is known to be one of the most amazing places where you can be in the countryside. The countryside in Sweden is simply the most remarkable one and has many attractions to offer.

There are some remarkable places to visit in Perth. The countryside has some amazing landmarks and they are simply awesome.

Cattesloe Beach is simply an awesome beach in Perth. This beach is regarded as a beautiful and a great beach for those who love to swim. There are some places where you can head in for picnics and lazying around. If you enjoy snorkeling, this is the place to be in. The beach is a perfect place for those who love to snorkel and scuba dive.

Rottnest Island is another destination of tourist interest. This place is remarkable too. This island is known to be one of the most beautiful islands in Perth and there are some amazing beaches, wildlife and rocky caves. The island is a perfect place for scuba divers and there are some amazing reefs here. The marine life is also simply remarkable. There are some places where you can go for fishing too. Swimming here is considered to be the most remarkable activity.

Fremantle is another great place to be in. The place is located 19 kilometres south west of Perth. There is a Swan River which meets the ocean and this is simply a great place to be in. There are some Japanese and Greek restaurants there as well.

The Swan Valley is also known to be an amazing place to be in. This place is known to be one of the oldest wine growing areas in Perth. There are some amazing wine makers, food producers and artists here and this place is simply the most happening place on earth.

Margeret River is one of the most renowned rivers in Perth. This river is known to be the best place for surfing. The area is known exclusively for its beauty.

Albany is another place which is very popular among the tourists. This place lies south of the coast of Australia and is simply an amazing place to be in.

These are some of the interesting places to be in Perth. Perth is truly a remarkable countryside in Australia where you can get to explore different amazing places.

Accommodation

There are a number of lodges and resorts where you can stay in Perth. These are the most remarkable places to reside in and they are nearer to the tourist areas.

Dining

There are some amazing places where you can dine as well. These places are simply remarkable and have the best of the local cuisine.

These are some of the great countryside places where you can visit in Perth.

This is the beauty of the place. Norway is one of the most remarkable places to visit amongst the countryside. There are amazing places to visit in Norway.

Places to visit in Norway

There are some remarkable destinations where you can visit in Norway. Oslo, Trondheim, Bergen, Tromso and Stavanger are some of the other places where you can head for.

Oslo is one of the largest and the capital city of Norway. This city is also known to be one of the most famous and the most popular city in the country. The city was said to have been destroyed by fire in the year 1624. The Vigeland Sculpture Park is one of the most renowned park in the city.

Some of the popular places to visit in Oslo is St. Hanshaugen Park, Toyen Park, Bygdoy and Frogner Park. These are the most amazing places to visit in Norway.

Trondheim is another city which is of utmost importance. This city is known to be the technical, educational, and the scientific research centre. This place also houses some remarkable heritage buildings and museums.

Bergen is considered to be the second largest city in Norway. It is said that all the administrative activities are believed to be held here. It is also regarded as a cultural hub and is also referred to as the unofficial capital of the country.

Tromso is a small island which is amazingly beautiful. This place is the ultimate destination to be in. There are a number of water sports that you can indulge in and also have lots of fun.

Stavangar is known to be the Petroleum city in Norway. Some of the oldest cathedrals and amazing monuments are built here. This is the most amazing place to be in Norway. If you want to enjoy the real countryside experience, this is the ultimate place to be in.

Accommodation

There are many places where you can find accommodation here. These are the best places for you to reside in. There are a number of lodges and resorts in the area.

Dining

The local food out here is simply amazing. Lamb and beef are the favorite here. Also, do not forget to try out the Tuna. The small restaurants and the joints down the road are the best places to halt at.

Norway is an amazing country to visit. Some of the best tourist destinations are here. Also, this place is known to be the most amazing and the most well known countryside all around the world.