Things to Do at the Grand Canyon

Carved by the great Colorado River, situated in Arizona, United States of America, the Grand Canyon is one of the largest canyons of the world. It is about 446 km long, 29 km wide and is as deep as 6000 ft. The Colorado River has been establishing its course through the canyon for the past 17 millions years and has eroded more than half the Colorado Plateau to form the present day Grand Canyon. The canyon was populated by the Native Americans before the Europeans immigrated and captured the canyon.

According to the Grand Canyon facts, there are various geographical features such as caves and water bodies, to make the canyon rich in animal and plant diversity. Therefore, there are many things to see and do in the canyon which is also one of the largest tourist spots in the world. If you are thinking of taking a trip or a vacation to the Grand Canyon, you surely won't be disappointed. Here's a list of things to do at the Grand Canyon for your information. Keep reading!

Fun Things to Do at the Grand Canyon

All of us must have studied the Grand Canyon in our geography textbooks, but witnessing this wonder of nature in person can be a completely different experience! Over a span of 446 km, there is a lot to see and do, such as: the Grand Canyon National Park (a home to several flora and fauna), the brilliantly built Skywalk, walking trails on both North and South rims, the fierce Colorado River, Kaibab Trails, and many other famous points to visit. With so many things to do at the Grand Canyon, you are surely going to need a really long vacation. So, make sure you take some time off, as you are about to see some breathtaking sights and experience the level of fun you probably haven't even thought about. Take a look!

Hiking
The best way to experience the Grand Canyon is to hike through its trails. There are plenty of trails found in the canyon, some created by nature and some by man. The canyon is divided in sections like the north, south, east and west rims, which have their own trails that will guide you within the rims and towards the river. Therefore, you can see the points located on both the rims, camp at these sights and then hike down towards the river. There are hotels and campsites at every point in the Grand Canyon, so you won't run out of supplies while hiking. In case you get tired, you could rent mules, horses or bikes for your journey as well and enjoy exploring the canyon on their backs. The Grand Canyon Village, Tusayan Ruins, the National Park, Grand Canyon Skywalk, etc. are some of the things you can see while hiking.

Rafting
Once you hike down through the trails to the Colorado River, you can witness the beauty of this magnificent river responsible for creating the canyon. The Deer Creek Falls are the best place to go river rafting and kayaking as they can be immense fun when you are with friends and family. The Havasu Canyon is a valley with four beautiful spring-fed waterfalls smashing down the cliffs, creating swimming holes with relaxing sights. Fishing is also something you could do in these waters, if you are more of a quiet vacationer. There are various other waterfalls and bodies in the Grand Canyon, such as: Chevaya Falls, Thunder River, Mystic Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Elves Chasm, etc. that make rafting and fishing some of the best things to do at the Grand Canyon.

Taking Tours
Since, there are so many things to see in the Grand Canyon, tours have been arranged for tourists. These include air, land and railway tours which work in shifts at specific durations of time. In these tours, tourists are given a chance to see the Grand Canyon from the air and from the railway. Air tours include, helicopter and airplane services that fly tourists over the canyon for about 30 minutes and show them the various beautiful sights. Land tours include a shuttle service (bus and jeep tours), which take tourists to sights like the Kolb Studio, El Tovar, Lookout Studio, Hopi House, Bright Angel Lodge and Santa Fe Railway Station. The railway tours are held by the Grand Canyon Railway Depot that was built in 1909. The railway service operates from Williams, Arizona, to the Grand Canyon National Park south rim.

With these things to do at the Grand Canyon, you are surely going to have one of the best vacations of your life. So, are you ready to book your tickets?

Things to Do in Virginia Beach with Kids

Situated at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay on the Atlantic Ocean, Virginia Beach is an independent metropolitan city. It is set in and around the Hampton Roads, which is one of the world's biggest natural harbors. The city of Virginia Beach is the 39th largest city in the US, and one of the major tourist attractions in Southern United States. If you are planning to spend your holidays in Virginia Beach, then let me tell you that this place is likely to be a real treat for your eyes as well as the soul. The sandy beaches, oceanfront resorts, historical treasures, numerous amusement parks, and the humid subtropical climate of Virginia Beach, makes it one of the hotspots for the tourists of all ages and predilections. Although most of the vacation spots in Virginia Beach are cited to be a lover's paradise, there are a lot of things to do in Virginia Beach with kids and family too. So let's cut to the chase and find out how you can spend the best family holiday in Virginia Beach.

Fun Things to Do in Virginia Beach with Kids

Virginia Beach has always been a culturally significant place in the Unites States of America. The influential historical background of Virginia Beach dates back to the time of the earliest Chesapian inhabitants and the Jamestown colonists, who chose this place to begin their US expedition. The city also possesses traces of its progress in various other fields like arts, literature, science, sports and recreation. The city is home to numerous historical sites, more than 200 city parks, including amusement parks, community parks, and a lot of open spaces for fun-loaded activities. Numerous beach fronts and beach activities have given this city the honor of being the longest happy beach in the world; in the Guinness Book of Records. Once you land in the city, there won't be the time when you many need to think about where to stay in Virginia Beach, with kids; as the city has loads of hotels, motels, and family resorts at your service. Places like Residence Inn, Fairfield Inn, Four Sails Resort, Holiday Inn, and many such hotels and resorts are just perfect for you to stay in Virginia Beach with your kids. Now, something about the attractions around, that are the must visit places when you are in Virginia Beach with kids.

Get Amused at Mount Trashmore Park
One of the most popular city parks of Virginia Beach, Mount Trashmore Park, is a paradise for kids. Developed in the year 1978, this city park is spread across 165 acres of land, that consists of various man-made hills and recreational spots like picnic shelters, open playgrounds, restrooms, multiple walking trails, and a lot more. The park itself is the best example of how beautifully the city landfill area can be reused, since it is located on one. Daily park timings are from 7.30 am until the sun sets, and it is open 24x7. The best attraction for the kids here is the Mount Trashmore Skate Park, which is located at the northeastern corner of the park, and the Kids' Cove; which is an extremely innovative playground designed for numerous interactive sports for kids and their parents alike.

Live Over the Past at First Landing State Park
Also known as the Seashore State Park, First Landing State Park is located at Cape Henry. The park has various well restored historical sites that tell you about the colonial past of the city. It has numerous outdoor activities on offer, which makes it a real treat for you and your kids, if they are outdoorsy. It has various cabins, fishing, camping and swimming sites, and numerous natural trails that serve as an excellent opportunity for your kids, if they enjoy hiking. The park also hosts a nightly First Landing Play, that makes you relive the time when the colonists first entered this region. All in all, the First Landing State Park is a good place to visit and invoke the historical quotient of your kids.

Get Amazed at Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
As the name suggests, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is an aquarium and marine science center which is located just south of the Rudee's on the Inlet restaurant. The aquarium exhibits more than 700 species and 12,000 animals. It is spread across two main buildings – Bay and Ocean Pavilion that contains three aquariums (Chesapeake Bay Aquarium, Chesapeake Light Tower Aquarium and Restless Planet) and Marsh Pavilion that contains various marsh creatures and injured and rescued animals that are found on the nearby shores. The center also has an aviary and a long natural trail that connects the entire area. Visiting the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center would definitely be a unique experience for you and your family.

Attractions Around Virginia Beach City for Kids

There are a lot of other things that you may like to do with the kids, to make Virginia Beach city a highly unforgettable vacation spot for kids and your entire family, for that matter. Go through the following list and get a few more ideas to spend the best holiday in Virginia Beach.

▶ Enjoy Irish ocean dancing or step dancing, at the Rhythm of Ireland School of Irish Dance.

▶ Enjoy your vacations by attending Hermit Crab Beauty Pageant and the Miss Curvaceous Crustacean Beauty Pageant!

▶ Enjoy the Food on Foot Tour, wherein you can enjoy a variety of food at a relatively low cost.

▶ Visit the Motor World for motor racing and go-carting. Play at the Paintball Splat Zone and Shipwreck Golf.

▶ Visit the Ocean Breeze Water Park (more than 15 slides) and cruise on Eight Pirate Cruises with friendly pirates.

▶ Visit the Hunt Club Farm, which is a treat for your kids who have never been to any animal farm before.

▶ Visit the Adam Thoroughgood House, which is the oldest brick house in the US.

▶ Visit the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, which is one of the 7 wonders of the Modern Engineering world.

▶ Visit the Fort Story Army Base, near the First Landing State Park. It has a series of lighthouses and less crowded and rather deserted beaches.

▶ Visit the False Cape State Park, that has the most undisturbed coastal environment in the whole of Virginia Beach.

▶ Visit the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, for the perfect twitching and hiking experience with your kids.

The last and certainly the best thing to do in Virginia Beach, especially with kids around, would be to do nothing at the numerous beaches in the city. You see, people who enjoy the seafronts and the salty sea breeze, hardly need any reason to visit a beach. And when it is the world's longest happy beach, it's in itself a reason enough! So enjoy and have a happy holiday!

Top 10 Things to Do in Hong Kong

For every place that you pick as a holiday destination, there is a list of must see, must buy, must eat, which basically sums up to the all important must do. Visiting a new place but not indulging in certain activities when there is almost like a waste of a trip! A holiday in Hong Kong is no exception to that rule. Hong Kong is a beautiful city that offers a plethora of things to do during your stay there. You could have some really productive days when in the city. Right from learning about the cultures and beliefs of Hong Kong, to exploring a wilder side and doing more fun things, there's an option available for all. Although now, I'd much rather we deal with the more fun aspect of it. Take a look at some of the best things to do in Hong Kong.

Top 10 Things to Do in Hong Kong

See the Giant Buddha Statue
It may not sound like one of those "fun things" to do if you very simply are looking to spend some casual and laid-back time in Hong Kong, but it is something that you definitely must find the time for. Also known as the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, this magnificent bronze sculpting of Buddha is as tall as 34 meters, and weighs as much as 250 tonnes. Located in the Po Lin Monastery in Lantau, this prominent statue of Buddha attracts close to a million visitors annually, so you know you are missing out on something if you don't go there.

Visit Victoria Peak
Another one of those things that every tourist has to do when in Hong Kong, is to take the steep peak tram and head to Victoria Peak. The primary reason for a visit to Victoria Park is to get an absolutely astonishingly beautiful view of the entire city. But wait, that isn't all. For those of you who've always wanted to visit it, there is also the Madame Tussaud Wax Museum. And if even that isn't enough, there are innumerable stores that could satiate your shopping needs. For those of you who are wondering, the place is indeed named after the British crowned head, Queen Victoria.

Visit the Temples
The oriental culture missing temples is rather unlikely. You could find some of the most beautiful temples ever, in Hong Kong. I'm sure any follower of Buddhism or Taoism who has visited them will agree. With over 600 temples, some being as old as 700 years or even more, you know there is ample to pick from if and when you decide to indulge in a visit to the numerous temples that Hong Kong has to offer. Here are a few suggestion of ones that you must go to... Sha Tin Che Kung Temple, Lo Pan Temple, Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery, Yuk Wong Po Tin (Jade Emperor Temple).

Trip to Disneyland
Now this may not be the real thing, but it sure is a great substitute to the one in California. Truth be told, if it's called Disneyland, your children will go happily, irrespective of where in the world it is. In fact, this most positively is one of the best ways to spend some quality time when in Hong Kong with the kids in tow. In addition to a day filled with fun (and lots of it), you can wait on until 9 pm and watch the fireworks light up the night sky. Stay on at one of the Disneyland hotels after a day like that, and there's not doubt about the fact that you will have happy children for the rest of your stay in Hong Kong.

Make a trip to the Hong Kong Museum of History
If you are looking to spend an extremely concrete day and have absolutely no qualms about it being an intelligent way of passing time, go to the Hong Kong Museum of History. As unenterprising a "must do" as it may sound to some, it is unquestionably the best way to spend hours of your day, and leaving you satisfied at the end of it. Whether it is archaeology that you are keen about, or even natural or local history, this museum will act as your one stop shop for it all. For those of you who aren't too big on history, other museums worth a visit are, Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong Heritage Museum, Hong Kong Science Museum, Hong Kong Space Museum, Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong Maritime Museum, amongst several others.

Shop at Stanley Market
It may come across as odd or unlikely, but if there's one thing that most tourists (or maybe every tourist) do is to visit and shop at Stanley Market. The perfect place for all those people who have unbeatable bargaining skills, shopping at Stanley Market is all about anything and everything you could ever be looking for. Right from curios for your personal collection, to little souvenirs to take back for friends back home, you name it, they have it. Jewelry, garments, electronics, furniture... You really would find anything under the sun at this place.

Check out the Symphony of Lights
A dramatically gorgeous light show that would be worth every minute of your time is the Symphony of Lights at the Avenue of Stars. A breathtaking view of Hong Kong and the harbor, this would be the most spectacular one and a half hours you could ever spend in this city. As if the view of the Victoria Harbor isn't stunning enough with the laser show that you would witness here, the cherry on the top is the unlimited drinks served from the open bar. Need much more? Just in case you do, there is some good music and commentary to accompany it too. Now, I'm sure you couldn't want more than that.

Ride the Star Ferry
Ever noticed how there are some things that every tourist does, no matter what! Well, here's another one of them... Riding the Star Ferry is a must when you are in Hong Kong. It's just one of those "top things" that you by no means can miss out on. A rather inexpensive ride from Kowloon to Central, or even the other way round, if you'd prefer, this ferry ride is one of the best ways to see the city like it is. Ask around, and you'll see that some people swear by this method of seeing the "true" Hong Kong.

Take a Free Tai Chi Class
If you are in Hong Kong, and you love martial arts, you can't not take a free tai chi lesson or two. Receiving tai chi training from trained instructors (for free) never hurt anybody. Held early in the morning, roughly three or four times a week, it isn't uncommon to see people practicing this martial art throughout the city. To add to its convenience, these classes are held at prominent locations, thus making it easy for an out-of-towner to attend them too. Nothing quite like fitness for free, now is there?

Sightseeing on the Bus & Visit the Beaches
Now this is definitely no shocker. This is the "must do" that must be done, for if it isn't, it makes you a bad tourist!! (Just kidding). The point of a visit to any new place is to get to see it in its true element, and honestly, there's no better way of doing that than by hopping on to one of those buses or trams that promise you the best sight seeing experience ever. As cliched as it may sound, you may as well get as "touristy" as you can. Another option that's equally laid-back and perfect for a day when you don't want to do much, is to check out the beaches. A few worth going to would be Repulse Bay, Butterfly Beach, Shek O Beach, Cheung Sha Beach, and even Tung Ping Chau.

So, those were the top 10 things to do in Hong Kong. If it seemed insufficient, and you want more, here's a random list of other options that should help...

Other Fun Things to Do in Hong Kong

★ Get a view of Hong Kong with a helicopter ride (expensive, but worth it if you can afford it)
★ Enjoy a Chinese Festival (if there are any during your stay)
★ Explore the Kamikaze Caves on Lamma Islands
★ Get experimental and eat at a Dai Pai Dong
★ Go to the Happy Valley Racecourse
★ Make a trip to Macau for a day
★ Go to Chungking Mansions
★ Go Pink Dolphin watching
★ Check out Causeway Bay
★ Visit Mong Kok
★ Eat dim sum
★ Go hiking

Hopefully the above mentioned list of things to do was worth your while. If you are big party goer, you wouldn't be disappointed either, for Hong Kong is not a city that disappoints. Work your way around the place, explore a little, have some fun, and it could turn into the best time that anyone has ever had in Hong Kong.

Packing Tips for Flying

Like a lot of us, you too may find it difficult to pack properly when flying, whether it is for a three day getaway or a month long trip. If you want to travel comfortably, you have to pack smartly. A lot of us tend to keep stuffing our bags thinking we may need one or the other pair of clothes or other items; but then realize that we don't need them when we actually go on our trips, and end up not using even one of those just-in-case items we packed. Moreover, due to the heavy airport security nowadays, you should be packing in a specific manner to avoid unnecessary delays. So what goes into packing smart? Here are some very essential packing tips for flying that will guide you.

How to Pack when Traveling on Airlines?

✈ Before you start packing find out what you are allowed to carry on a flight and what you are not. You don't want to go to the airport and then be denied carrying some very important items.

✈ Pack light. There's nothing worse than having to lug around your bags, say if your flight has been delayed.

✈ Leave a little room in your suitcase. Don't pack it to a point where you have to sit on it to close it. If you happen to be checked at the airport and the security personnel messes with your luggage, you should be able to quickly put your things back in the bag without having to wrap everything neatly so that it fits. Also, should you decide to bring back something, there should be place in your bag to accommodate it.

✈ Any traveler will tell you that a suitcase tends to seem bigger if your clothes are rolled up rather than folded and placed in them. Rolling clothes within clothes is also a good idea to save space while packing.

✈ Use your shoes as additional storage areas. Put in small bottles (thoroughly sealed) of say your perfumes or other toiletries in them to save some space. Place other fragile items within rolled clothes to cushion them.

✈ Depending on the kind of trip you are going for, choose your clothes wisely. For instance, a sarong can be a skirt and a dress. A cargo pant can be zipped apart into a pair of shorts. A jacket can keep you warm and protect you from the rain at the same time.

✈ Carry clothes that will go well with each other. This gives you greater options in mixing and matching and reduces the necessity to carry too many clothes. If you know you are not going to be attending any special occasions, don't unnecessarily carry heavy clothes. Just like clothes, keep shoes to a minimum. One pair of walking shoes along with a pair or two of flip-flops should ideally be enough for a holiday.

✈ Keep only one set of 'just-in-case' items. There is no sense in having clothes as backup for clothes that are already a backup.

✈ Clothes and shoes that you need, but are heavy and will add to the weight of your luggage should be worn while traveling. These large clothes also serve as good storage spaces so that your passport, tickets, keys, etc. all fit into them easily.

✈ When you are traveling, make sure that the toiletries and other essentials you carry are also travel-sized. There is no room for that huge bottle of shampoo you intend to carry just for a week. Stick to sachets or specifically designed travel packs for such items.

✈ Electronic items such as hair dryers, hair irons, clothes irons, etc. add to the weight of your bag. If possible, avoid carrying them. Iron your clothes in advance and pack them, and use the hair dryers and other items that hotels usually provide.

✈ Due to various airline travel restrictions it is important that you pack toiletries that you plan to carry in your hand luggage in a clear, sealable plastic bag. Also keep these at an accessible point in your hand luggage for easy checking.

✈ If possible, use a suitcase with dividers, or create divisions in your suitcase by using cardboard. This way you can categorize a variety of items that will be easily accessible when traveling and throughout your trip.

✈ Be prepared for flight delays, particularly if you are traveling for long hours. Keep a set of essentials at hand so that you can brush or change if you need to.

✈ Separate valuable items into multiple bags and among friends and family traveling with you, so that in case you happen to lose one bag at the airport, you don't lose all your valuables. Alternately, if one of you loses one set of valuables, the remainder will be intact.

✈ On your return journey, if possible, discard or donate the clothes you used there. This is a good way of avoiding bringing back unnecessary stuff.

✈ If you intend to bring back gifts for someone, do not wrap them in advance. Again, in case you happen to get stopped for a security check, the security personnel shouldn't have to waste time on unwrapping your gifts and checking each one of them; and of course, wasting your effort at having them packed.

Follow these simple tips and you will travel light, and comfortably too, whether it is a business trip or a holiday. The idea is to enjoy your trip, not worry about how you will carry everything around. Have a great time!

Best East Coast Beaches for Couples

East Coast beaches of the US always hold a special place in the heart for couples all around the world. They offer tons of options for couples who just want to have some quality time with each other. Beaches are also an ideal destination for newly married couples. Couples who want some private moments with each other always prefer going to a beach because it's one place where both beauty and peace comes as a balanced equation. On these beaches, passion reignites again and couples once again feel the magic of love.

Best East Coast Beaches for Young Adults

Live up the romance in your relationship with few days on the beach where you and your partner can blissfully lay in the sun and sand. Hold hands and have quiet romantic night walks on the beach with your special someone. The following beaches are filled with romance, innocence and flirting which is something that every couple needs after some time.

Hamptom Beach, New Hampshire
Hampton Beach is probably the most preferred beach of couples. The entire sandy area is filled with great food and games. Couples can relax by lying down on the wide sandy areas of the beach or go scuba diving in the clear waters. Tourists can also catch some great entertainment at the Seashell Amphitheater. The Hampton beach also plays hosts to various cultural festivals which will keep the excitement factor in high spirits.

Bowman's Beach, Florida
Normally couples prefer going to places which have less crowd and noise and hence going to a secluded beach sounds like a great idea for a romantic getaway. Bowman's Beach is filled with linen sand and clear waters. Couples won't see much crowd, but will see other couples who are enjoying some quality time with each other. There's not much construction on the area, though Bowman does have an added advantage which none of the other beaches have - delicious barbecue grills.

South Beach, Florida
When couples reach South Beach they see the warm sun, blue sky, crystal clear water and nothing but love all around. The beach is filled with amazing views and couples from all over the world come to South Beach to enjoy its night life, stunning sandy shores and amazing food. Couples can also dig into the wide range of cuisines ranging from Mexican to Japanese and Vietnamese to Greek. You and your spouse can take part in the countless water activities during the day and if you guys have any time to spare then head out to enjoy the amazing night life.

Sandbridge Beach, Virginia
Only 15 miles away from the Virginia Beach resort area, the surroundings of Sandbridge Beach gives you the feeling of another heaven. Couples can lie down on the golden colored sands and enjoy the sunset. If you are up for activity, then a trip to the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge can be arranged. Termed as one of the most beautiful beaches of Virginia, Sandbridge Beach is surely one of the best east coast vacation spots of the US.

Gunnison Beach, New Jersey
Located on the Sandy Hook Peninsula in the northeastern corner of New Jersey, Gunnison is one of the most famous clothing optional beach of the world. It's not that couples can't wear clothes on this beach, but most people who come to vacation on this beach are nude. There are even signboards for visitors which say that they might encounter nude sunbathers beyond a certain point. Even with the nudist tag, Gunnison is one of the most romantic east coast beaches for couples.

These beaches serve as a perfect romantic getaway for couples wanting to spend some quality time together. To enjoy a comfortable stay it's advised that couples place their reservations in advance to avoid disappointments on reaching.

Things to Bring on a Cruise to the Bahamas

Going for a cruise vacation is certainly one of the most exciting things to do, but packing for it is certainly not a fun task. If an individual is traveling on a cruise for the first time then he/she might not have any idea on what to carry and what to leave. The best that first time travelers can think of are clothes and money. In this confusion the chances of forgetting important items is very high. Hence, it's better to do all the packing at least one week in advance.

What to Pack for a Cruise to the Bahamas

People from all sides of the globe flock to the Bahamas to enjoy its white sand and heavenly waters. The Bahamas is situated on the eastern coast of the US which helps this tiny nation to avoid various natural calamities. The bright sunshine makes it one of the top golf destinations of the world. Apart from the countless water activities, Bahamas also offers an amazing view of the flora and fauna for its visitors. Many people don't know but Bahamas is a foreign land and hence it's very necessary to make a list of various things to bring on a cruise to the Bahamas.

What to Wear
Bahamas normally experiences warm weather. Hence, it's advised that people should carry light weight clothes as temperatures run up to 90° during summer seasons. Avoid dark colored clothes and wear comfortable slippers and shoes. People who are planning to spend most of their time near the beach should carry more swimsuits. Men and women should also carry an extra formal suit and a beautiful gown for attending any formal parties hosted on the cruise.

Important Documents
Put all you personal identification documents and paperwork in a separate backpack. Carry airline tickets, cruise documents, proof of citizenship and driver's license. Carry multiple copies of all these documents and keep them separate in case they are lost. It's a good idea to carry additional traveler's checks and cell phones.

Personal Care Items
A cruise liner is a place where customers are provided with all the possible comforts they need. Although customers can get complimentary personal care items such as shampoos, shower gels, razors and sunscreens, it's a good idea to check with the cruise liner for the availability of such items. People who plan to spend most of their time on beaches will need loads of sunscreen if they don't want to get sun burned.

Bring Books
It's always a good idea to bring some reading material as it helps pass time on the airport and also on the cruise. Bring your own reading material because books and magazines available on the cruise ships would be more expensive. Most of the Bahamian population speaks English but many of the locals might use regional phrases which might be unfamiliar to tourists. In such cases guidebooks prove very helpful.

Luggage
Luggage rules on cruises are much more relaxed than luggage rules on aircraft. It's advised that each tourist carries not more than two suitcases weighing less than 50 lbs each. Some cruise liners also allows guests to carry small coolers filled with non alcoholic drinks. People who want to shop around this beautiful nation should get a duffel bag and take advantage of the duty free shopping experience.

Sports Equipments
It's also a good idea for tourists to bring golf clubs, scuba diving equipment, tennis rackets and balls from home. This would help save lots of rental fees.

Bahamas is a place for everyone in the family and is one of the most beautiful destinations on the globe. It's also very important to know when to set foot on this little slice of heaven, tourists should be aware that from 1st June to November 30th is the season for hurricanes. However, many cruise liners still travel between this time even though there are high chances of coming face to face with harsh weather conditions.

Interesting Facts about Beijing

One of the most famous cities in the East and about to become a financial hub for the entire world, Beijing is destination for the New World. Beijing is a metropolis city in Northern China and also the official capital of the People's republic of China. The city is under the direct administration of the central government and continues to be a major political, cultural and educational center of the People's Republic of China. It's one of the few cities that have been a very important part of Chinese heritage and culture since many centuries. It's really strange, but Beijing is one of the few cities in the world which has been renamed constantly. During 1115-1234 it was named as Zhongdu, from 1271-1368 it was named as Dadu. Marco Polo named Beijing as Cambuluc and again in 1949 after the end of the Chinese Civil War, the Communist Party of China renamed it as Beijing.

Beijing Facts and Information

The present situation of the city is as fascinating as the history of Beijing. It has witnessed a unique transformation with passing of time and has reinvented itself as one of the most modern and advanced cities of the world. It's situated at the northern tip of the North China plain and is shielded by mountains on the north. Let's have a look at some more interesting facts about Beijing.

    * Beijing is the second largest city after Shanghai and also the capital of the People's Republic of China.
    * It's no secret that the Chinese love their bicycles, which is why once you get to Beijing, you will see thousands of cyclists on the roads.
    * Beijing also hosted the 2008 Olympics.
    * In the Imperial Times, the city was also known as Peking.
    * There are 16 districts and 2 counties in Beijing.
    * If you want to go on a trip to Beijing, remember that not many people speak English. So make sure you know the basic Chinese phrases or you are going to face a tough time.
    * Beijing is called one of the 'Four Great Ancient Capitals of China'.
    * The literal meaning of the term Beijing is 'Northern Capital'.
    * The Beijing zoo is one of the most famous tourist destinations of the city and its popular for its Panda Bears. The Beijing zoo is also the largest zoo in the country.
    * The hottest tourist destination in Beijing is 'The Forbidden City'. The Forbidden City comprises of 980 buildings and 8707 bays of rooms. It was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987 and is listed as the largest collection of old wooden structures in the world by the UNESCO.
    * McDonald's is the city's most popular fast food joint.
    * For entertainment, people can visit the world famous Peking Opera. The Opera is great combination of songs, dialogs, acrobatics, fighting, music and much more.
    * The most common surname in Beijing is Wang. The name is shared by almost 11% of the population.
    * The largest wooden Buddha statue in China is located in Beijing in Yonghe Lamasery.
    * The most popular sports in Beijing are basketball and football.
    * The capital city enjoys four distinct seasons. July is the hottest at 75°F and January is the coldest at 18°F. Spring and autumn are the shortest seasons.
    * The city flower of Beijing is the China Rose or Chrysanthemum and the city tree is Arborviate or Chinese Scholar Tree.
    * The Beijing Capital International Airport is the second busiest airport in the world and the busiest in Asia.
    * Due to the high levels of pollution in the city, the Chinese government spent nearly $17 billion to clean up the city's air during the 2008 Olympics.
    * The most famous delicacy of Beijing is the 'Peking Roast Duck'. It's one of China's national foods and has been consumed since Imperial Times.

Even though the People's Republic of China is dominated by a Communist Party, the capital city is filled with discos and night clubs which provide great nightlife for tourists and locals. If you know some more interesting facts about Beijing, then please do not hesitate to list them below.

Interesting Facts About Philippines

The Philippines lies in the Pacific ocean and is one of the most populous nations in the world. It is officially known as Republic of the Philippines. Philippines is a large archipelago which comprises of more than seven thousand islands. An archipelago is a group of large number of islands. Do you know that this country has the richest biodiversity in the whole world? Apart from this, there are many other interesting facts about Philippines mentioned in this article. Let us take a look at them in detail.

Interesting Facts About Philippines For Kids

    * Taiwan lies to the north of Philippines; while Sulu Sea and Celebes Sea lies to the south. The country of Vietnam is on the west of Philippines while the Philippine Sea is to the east.
    * The Philippine islands was under Spanish rule from 1521 to the nineteenth century. The British had also invaded Manila in the eighteenth century. Later it was under the American rule in the Second World War. It gained independence after the World War II.
    * It is a popular belief that English language was brought to Philippines by Americans. On the contrary, the English language was introduced to the people of this nation by the British invaders.
    * Talking about languages, the official languages of this nation are Filipino and English; while other regional languages recognized in this country are Bikol, Ilokano, Cebuano, Hiligaynon, Pangasinense,Tagalog and Waray.
    * The history behind the name 'Philippines' of this country is also very interesting. The nation got its 'Philippines' after King Philip II of Spain.
    * Philippines boasts of a coastline of 36,289 kilometers. However, it still ranks fifth in the world for having the longest coastline.
    * Due to the presence of the Pacific Ring of Fire, Philippines is highly prone to earthquakes and typhoons.
    * There were about 200 volcanoes on the islands of Philippines earlier. However, very few are actually active now.
    * Mount Apo, found on the island of Mindanao is the highest point in Philippines. The height of this mountain is 2,954 m.
    * People native to Philippines are known as Filipino. There is a mixture of ethnicity in Philippines as people belonging to different ethnic groups like Malay, Spanish, American and Chinese are found in this country.

Fun Facts About Philippines

    * There are specific mountain types, known as Chocolate Hills found in this country. As they are brown in color, they are termed so. However, another interesting fact is that the name of these hills has been inspired by 'Hershey's kisses'.
    * The capital city of Philippines, Manila, is named after a plant called as Maynilad.
    * Another interesting facts about Philippines is that it the world's third largest English speaking country.
    * According to the customs and traditions in Philippines, it is not considered good manners to open gifts immediately when they are given.
    * Do you know that Philippines is the only country in the world whose flag is hoisted upside down when the country is at war?
    * Philippines is known as the 'text capital of the world' because of the large number of texts sent to and fro by the people in one day. The number is higher then the number of text messages sent by people of US and UK together.

Fast Facts About Philippines

    * Official Name ~ Republic of the Philippines
    * Capital city ~ Manila
    * Currency ~ Philippine Peso
    * Type of Government ~ Unitary presidential constitutional republic
    * Head of Government ~ President
    * Head of State ~ President
    * Population ~ 85.2 million (2006)
    * Total Area ~300,000 square kilometers
    * Literacy: 96%

These were some of the interesting facts about Philippines, which, I hope, you must have enjoyed reading. You can also go through the link Philippines legends and myths for some more interesting facts. You should definitely visit Philippines at least once to see the beautiful beaches, the lush green landscape and of course, the Chocolate Hills! Ciao!

What to Take on a Safari

A safari reminds us of the dense forests of Amazon, the deserts of Sahara and the grasslands of Savannah. Isn't it? So can you afford to miss out any important thing on a safari? The answer is definitely no. Your expedition is a few more days to go and you are just about to start packing. All the necessities lying helter skelter on the floor and you haven't yet decided what to take and what not to take on the safari. Unlike short term fun holidays, a safari entails travel, adventure, excitement, fun and hassles as well. Therefore, you should be well equipped with all those items that are absolutely essential on a safari to make it an awesome experience.

The goods that you will be packing in your luggage will depend on the place where you are heading on to and the duration of your trip. People usually tend to stuff their backpacks with lot of unnecessary materials that contribute to increasing the load of their bags. Thus, you need to make a list, that will contain only those things which would prove useful to you. So what to take on safari holidays? We explain you over here.

» A Medicine Kit
Whether it's a journey of a night or a few days trip, you should never step out of home without medicines. To be on the safe side, you should carry medicines for fever, pain, vomiting, dehydration and other minor health complications. Stuff your medicine kit with antiseptic lotions, rehydrate powder sachets, pain killers, paracetamols, insect bite creams, throat lozenges, etc. People usually take vaccinations, which is sometimes mandatory for traveling to different countries.

» Clothes and Accessories
Carrying too many clothes is not at all feasible on a safari. You can pack two clothes per day. Pack casual and light weight clothes so that you feel comfortable throughout the trip. Shorts, trousers, Ts and cargo are some good options for your dress code on a safari. You can shop for long and short sleeve blouses and a good pair of safari jacket. Cool cotton shirts with three fourth pants would perfectly suit the adventurous trip. Wearing jeans would make you feel uncomfortable when you indulge yourself into adventures.

You need not deck yourself up with loads of accessories while going on a safari. A safari hat and a UV protective goggle would be useful for you. Girls should avoid heels, instead they can wear sneakers, canvas or sport shoes. Two pairs of shoes would be enough for you. Keep an extra pair of floaters if required. You can wear high boots to protect your legs while are treading through jungles. This is a general guideline to your clothing and accessories. You should pack your clothes according to the weather conditions prevailing there.

» Food and Drinks
Never set on an expedition without equipping yourself with food and water. Purchase packs of dry fruits and keep enough water with yourself. Canned foods, dry fruits, snacks and other types of dry eatables last long for a couple of days. You can also carry home cooked food, provided they are dry and dehydrated. Apart from water, you can also carry few bottles of energy drinks and cokes. Give importance to food and drinks more when kids are with you. You can also carry some extra jam, jellies and frozen foods so that they can relish them whenever hungry. Click this Buzzle link to get more tips on backpacking.

» Gears and Gadgets
The places that abound natural beauty are worth capturing with your camera. Those who are passionate about photography, will never miss out the photography equipments. Video shooting the wildlife and the scenic beauty is an experience of a lifetime. So do not forget to carry your camcorder or digital camera, or else the journey will remain incomplete. Watches, mobile phones and binoculars are also needed on a safari. Carrying laptops, music systems and GPS is a matter of personal choice. Maps and journals also prove useful for knowing the directions and jotting down your personal experiences, respectively, while traveling.

That was a complete guide to what to take on a safari. I hope now you can start your packing in a much more organized way. Make a list of these things so that you do not forget anything. Till then, count days for the expedition that you are so avidly waiting for. Have fun!

How do Frequent Flyer Miles Work

In a highly competitive sector, any company which aims to maintain its market share, must come up with innovative ideas that keep customers interested in their product or service. One such out of the box idea, introduced in air travel sector is the frequent flyer program, which has enjoyed huge success in the domestic, as well as international sector.

When I think about frequent flyer programs, a picture of George Clooney as Ryan Bingham, from the 2009 movie 'Up in the Air' floats into my mind, as the character's biggest motivation in life is to earn 10 million frequent flyer miles! There are many such Ryan Binghams out there, who literally live a life out of the suitcase and enjoy the exclusive status and facilities provided by airlines to frequent flyers like them. In this Buzzle article, you will find a clear explanation of how do frequent flyer miles work for these vagabond air travelers.

How Do Frequent Flyer Programs Work?
The sole reason why a branded business survives over the years is the loyal customer base it maintains. As the competition in the air travel sector heated up, airlines needed to come up with new ideas to grab the customer's attention. That's what gave rise to frequent flyer programs. The objective of the program is to create loyal customer base, through awarding of free air miles, or 'points' for every flight that a customer takes with the airline. Number of points earned are directly proportional to flight distance.

The number of points or free miles earned can be 'redeemed' at a future date to get free air tickets or gain other privileges and discounts with associated services. The free miles or points earned per mile traveled, vary for every airline, but it's typically one point for every mile traveled. Of course, the accumulated air miles come with an expiry tag.

They have to be redeemed within a fixed period of time, which also varies for every airline. Every airline has it's own complicated formula for calculation of the points according to the air miles traveled. Every customer who signs up with such a program has a dedicated account with the airline, where he or she can check for the points accumulated.

When customers have earned a certain maximum amount of points (typically, 25,000 miles or more), they are provided with elite status, which provides them access to privileges like first class lounge access, priority in booking tickets, special discounts on stays in hotels affiliated with the airlines, car rental services and other such perks. Most programs also offer air miles according to the usage of credit card for shopping, staying in affiliated hotels or for engaging in other business transactions. One can even directly buy miles from airlines, if his accumulated 'Mile Pile' is falling short of a flight destination by a small margin. You don't need to think about how to buy cheap airline tickets when you have earned miles to cash upon.

When redeeming the earned air miles or points, they are converted to dollar value, according to a fixed value for every mile. This value may vary from less than a cent to more than 2 cents per mile earned. The number of free mile points earned per traveled mile also varies according to the class of tickets you book. First class tickets will earn you more points per mile than business or economy class tickets. For example, if the value of a point or mile is a cent, then 25,000 miles will earn you $250 worth free ticket travel. You can refer to websites like 'Webflyer,' which provides detailed information regarding the frequent flyer programs offered by domestic and international airlines. Till date, trillions of air miles have been accumulated by air travelers in the US.

Hope this article has clarified most of the doubts in your mind about how do frequent flyer miles work. All in all, frequent flyer programs are a win/win proposal for travelers and airlines. Of course, enrolling for them only makes sense if you travel quite frequently and widely. Read all the terms and conditions of the program carefully before signing up and look for hidden costs involved. Go for an airline that operates in your travel domain, which will let you benefit from their frequent flyer program. More the miles you travel, more are the miles you earn to travel free! Once you have accumulated enough points, cash in on the points or miles earned by gifting yourself a vacation trip absolutely free!

Places to Visit in Belgium

If you are considering a visit to a traditionally-influenced place in Europe, you can give Belgium a try. This is a beautiful country in the Western Europe which is rich in culture and food. If you are thinking about visiting Belgium, you can expect to get a glance of typical European culture and architecture. Exotic food and museums are the chief attractions in the Kingdom of Belgium. Food enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of beers and chocolates. Now let us take a look at some interesting places to visit in Belgium.

Famous Places to Visit in Belgium

Brussels
If you want to see the modern life of Belgium, Brussels is the place to be. The top attraction in this city is the Grand Place, surrounded by the Town Hall and is considered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another attraction in the city includes the Parc du Cinquantenaire; a large park spread across 30 hectares comprising beautiful gardens, waterfalls, and ponds. It even has the famous Cinquantenaire Art Museum, AutoWorld Museum, and the Royal Military Museum. And not to forget the famous Manneken Pis, Belgium's famous little statue. It’s a statue of little boy peeing in a fountain, located on the corner of Rue de L’Etuve & Stroofstraat since 1619.

Bruges
Bruges is the place to travel to if you are looking for a blend of early and contemporary life in Europe. The Groeningemuseum is a major point of interest that is a museum of fine arts holding artworks from the 14th century onwards. Another attraction is the Choco-Story Museum that gives you a glimpse about the making of chocolates. Similarly, The Frietmuseum shows the role and history of potato and chips. Don't miss the Snow and Ice sculpture festival which displays exquisite ice sculptures.

Leuven
A city just about 20 km east of the vibrant Brussels is Leuven. This is a city famous for the Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis, a botanical garden known for possessing rare flowers and plants, ponds, greenhouses, etc. The city is mainly known for its student life, pubs, bars and busy markets. Other attractions include the Leuven Town Hall, Grand Béguinage of Leuven, and many historical churches like St. Peter's Church and Church of Saint Michael.

Antwerp
This city boasts of one of the largest seaports in the European region. It is a metropolitan city with much to offer for visitors. Animal lovers would really enjoy the Antwerp Zoo which has around 6,000 animals. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp is for art enthusiasts, displaying a wide range of works by world-renowned artists. Other places for tourists are the Steen Castle, Antwerp Port, and many diamond shops, as this city is believed to be the world's diamond capital.

Ghent
This is referred to as the flower city of the country. It holds the The Gentse Floraliën flower festival which is a once in five year event, displaying a variety of flowers and plants. You can truly enjoy the boat rides on the Leie river. Ghent is like a paradise to music lovers as well; with sporting festivals such as the Gentse Feesten, I Love Techno, and Festival of Flanders. Food enthusiasts can also have a good time in the multi-cuisine eateries of this Belgium city.

Hasselt
Tourists to Hasselt mark this place as a traditional European city. Though it is a small city, it is considered quite social. As being thought of as the 'city of the taste', there are many restaurants available around. Fashionable shoppers can have a good time owing to the designer brand shops in most of the streets. You can even enjoy the Plopsa Indoor amusement park. Other places to visit are the open air museum in Bokrijk, Municipal Fashion Museum, and National Genever Museum.

Usually, people coming to Belgium are tourists who have come to visit Germany, Luxembourg, and France. They are surprised by the cultural heritage the country possesses. An interesting fact on Belgium is that the country is one of the finest manufacturers of chocolate and beer the world over. These are few of the best cities to visit in Belgium. There are many other ideal places for spending leisure time in traditional, yet modern surroundings.

Interesting Facts about Mauritius

Mauritius, officially known as the Republic of Mauritius, is famous as a global tourist destination. An island nation, it is situated in the Indian Ocean, southeast of Africa, say about 560 miles east of the island Madagascar. There are many fun and interesting facts about Mauritius, few of which we will be reading in this article. Ethnicities such as African, French, Asian and Chinese reside in this country, and are a part of the Mascarene Islands along with two more islands, namely Réunion and Rodrigues. Even though the country is a little less than 1300 square miles in area, it has many facts that make it globally one of the most visited destinations today. Formed as a result of undersea volcanic eruptions, this island country will amuse you with some interesting facts, that you surely haven't heard of before.

Interesting and Fun Facts About Mauritius

    * The security, military and police function on the island of Mauritius are looked after by duty personnel, who are commanded by the Commissioner of Police. The island does not have its own standing army.
    * The national animal of Mauritius is Dodo, which is now extinct. The bird was brutally hunted by the early settlers as it provided good meat and was easy to hunt.
    * The national flower of Mauritius is Trochetia Boutoniana, which is commonly seen during June to October.
    * Originally, Mauritius was known as Revis Island. The first people to set foot on this land were were Portuguese in 1505. The Dutch followed later.
    * This leaf shaped island is the most populated one in Africa. It also ranks number 17th amongst populated countries of the world.
    * However, it also happens to be the richest and most developed nation in Africa.
    * The life expectancy of people residing in Mauritius is 73 years, which is known to be the highest amongst developing countries.
    * About 40% of the island's population resides in Port Louis, which is the capital. It was established by the French in 1736.
    * Mauritius boasts some of the finest beaches in the world such as Grand Bay, Pereybere, Belle Mare, Blue Bay, La Morne and Tamarin and Flic en Flac. Their scenic beauty makes this island one of the most sought after destinations for holidays and honeymoons, all over the world.
    * Aapravasi Ghat and Le Morne Cultural Landscape are two world heritage sites in Mauritius, which is owned by the United Nations since 24 April, 1968.
    * Its name, Mauritius, is a derivation of Maurice de Nassau, a Prince of Orange.
    * The colors red, blue, yellow and green in the country's flag represent the following: Suberbe Flamboyant tree, Indian Ocean, light of independence and the sunshine, and the island's vegetation.
    * 'The Motherland', national anthem of Mauritius was written by Jean Georges Prosper in 1968. It was later composed by Philippe Gentil, who was a part of the Mauritian police band.
    * Although French is the general language of communication, English is its official language.
    * 'Sega' a folk dance which originates in Africa is also the dance of the Mauritians. In the recent years, Sega and Reggae have been the background music for this dance form. The fusion music is now being called 'Seggae'

These were some of the most interesting facts about Mauritius, listed out for you. Though some of them are known by us for a few decades, some did surprise you, didn't they? These interesting facts about Mauritius will come in handy while trying to solve quizzes or making a few for fun. This trivia can also help you to plan a vacation to Mauritius, as you would know which beaches and sites to go see too. So, go through this information again to know the island a little more in detail.

How to Plan a Trip to Italy

Italy is a home to many azure beaches, beautiful landscapes and its historic cities drive many of us to pay a visit to this European country. The Roman Colosseum, Vatican museums, Leaning Tower of Pisa, and DaVinci's Last Supper in Milan are some of the attractions that Italy offers to its tourists. So, to include all these intriguing destinations, the trip must be well planned. Though planning a trip is never an easy task, a well designed trip can leave you content and satisfied. Here are a few ideas on how to plan a trip to Italy.

Airfares to Italy and Budgeting
Planning always comes with some expense. Some don't bother about spending, while some are conscious while spending and are looking for different ways of planning an affordable trip. With the availability of numerous air travel companies, traveling has become cheaper and easier. As many people show interest in visiting different destinations, air travel companies are coming up with many cheap and great offers. Hence, the question of how to plan a cheap vacation to Italy is solved.

Budgeting, for some, is an essential factor while planning a vacation. They have to consider the amount they spend on air tickets, their accommodation and also the places they want to visit. Well planning all this by yourself is never easy and is an irksome task. So, to ease out your planning load, consult the travel and tourism companies. Some of these companies have great tourism packages that can suit your budget and also give you the joy of tailoring your trip as per your convenience.

Accommodation
In case you are visiting through a travel company, your accommodation is mainly taken care by them. However, the case is different if you have taken the planning on yourself. Italy has many affordable as well as exotic accommodations available. From villas, apartments to hotels and lodgings, every city of Italy promises to offer its guests a comfortable stay. However, if you prefer for more luxurious and comfortable stay, then advance booking can get you beautiful apartments and villas. These luxurious accommodations not only provide comfortable rooms but also tempt you to plunge in some great cuisine too.

Even websites can give you a quick update on different beautiful hotels in Italy and can guide you well in choosing the lodging as per the places you want to visit. Short list the hotels of your choice and inquire about the cost of living per day. This way you can budget your per day living and have a great trip to Italy.

Places to Visit in Italy
Italy's mild climatic conditions make it possible for many to visit it any time of the year. Rome, Vatican, Venice, Pisa, Amalfi, Florence and Milan are some of the great places to visit in Italy. The famous Roman Colosseum is always a great sight to watch, which comes with an interesting history. Besides visiting the historic monuments, you can plunge into an interesting conversation over a cup of coffee, as there are a variety of café shops in Rome. If your interest lies more into arts, then the Vatican exposes some of the best museums and also displays the well known Sistine Chapel. Moving towards the most lovely and known to be the romantic cities of Italy, Venice is entirely built on water. Its a home to many magnificent palaces and churches. Sardini and Sicily are another two cities that are a must visit when you are planning your trip to Italy. These islands are a mix of clear water, beaches, historic monuments, and are also known to serve delicious food.

Putting in that little effort to plan the trip to Italy will eventually lead you to a great trip. Therefore, take up the above mentioned ideas and quit wondering on how to plan a trip to Italy.

The Culture of Pakistan

Pakistan, a country in Southern Asia, has a rich culture and heritage. Formerly, a part of 'Hindustan', Pakistan became an independent country on August 14, 1947. The highly traditional Pakistani culture borrows heavily from the cultures of different countries like the Arabs, Greeks, Persians, Aryans, Moghuls and the British. The neighboring countries of Pakistan, like Iran (in the west), Afghanistan (in the northwest) and India (in the east) also influence its culture.

Language
Although, English is widely spoken in Pakistan, Urdu is the official language. The other languages that are spoken in Pakistan are Punjabi, Sindhi, Pushto, Balochi, Hindko, Saraiki, Brahvietc.

Religion
The majority of Pakistan's population are Muslims and they follow the Islamic religion in a strict fashion. They offer namaz (prayers) five times everyday. Ramadan, the most important festival of the Muslims, is also considered as a sacred month. During this month, they fast from morning till sunset without drinking water and are strictly prohibited from smoking and consuming alcohol. The last day of Ramdan is Eid which is celebrated with great fervor with family and friends.

Islam is the major religion in Pakistan, but is not the only one. The minority population comprises of Christians, Buddhists, Hindus and the Persians. Christmas (also the birthday of Ali Jinnah, first governor-general of Pakistan), Jashn-e-Baharan (spring festival celebrated by the Punjabis), Baisakhi Purnima (the birth date of Buddha) and Naoroz (Parsi New Year) are among some of the festivals celebrated in Pakistan.

Architecture
The architecture of Pakistan is miscellaneous, as every nation that invaded and settled in this country has left a mark on it. In ancient times, this Islamic country was a part of the Indus Valley Civilization and the architectures of Mohenjo Daro, Harappa and Kot Diji, are considered as the heritage sites.

One can also see the Buddhist monuments that were constructed during the time when Buddhism was prevalent in Pakistan. The advent of the Moghuls put an end to the Buddhist architecture. During this time, due to the influence of Greeks and Persians, there was an amalgamation of these styles in the architecture of the country which was known as the 'Greco-Buddhist' style.

The invasion of the Mughal empire led to the development of Islamic architecture. The Shah Jahan Mosque of Thatta is the first building that was constructed according to the principles of Mughal architecture. One of the very important monuments that came up during this period is the Badshahi Mosque. It was built during the rule of Emperor Aurangzeb, and is flanked by the magnificent Alamgiri gate.

Later, during the time of colonization, the constructions were majorly of Indo-Western style. Today, in the post-colonial era, we can see a mixture of all these styles along with the modernized structures.

Sports
Although, field hockey is the national game of Pakistan, cricket is a game that is followed with lot of passion. In recent times, even soccer has become popular among the people. The country also internationally represents in sports like swimming, boxing, shooting and athletics.

Art and Literature
Poetry is the most important form of literature in Pakistan. One of the most known exponent of Urdu poetry is Mirza Ghalib. He has written various poems in Urdu and Persian. His poems are still read and loved by Urdu and Hindi speaking people around the globe.

Pakistani literature is not restricted only to Urdu poetry. There is an embodiment of works written in English, Punjabi, Sindhi and Pushto languages. Also, there are Pakistani diasporic writers around the world.

Music is a primary interest of the Pakistanis. Qawwali, which was said to have been introduced by Amir Khusrau, is one of the most traditional forms of music that exists in Pakistan. Film, Urdu and Punjabi pop music is also popular among the people. Nowadays, it is blended with western music and this amalgamation has developed into a popular music genre.

The most popular entertainment medium in Pakistan are the television and the radio. Pakistan's film industry is referred to as Lollywood with a production of 40 motion pictures every year. Indian movies are also popular in Pakistan, although, it has been banned by the Government of Pakistan.

Social Culture
The Pakistanis are mostly conservative in nature. They follow a strict code of conduct. They live in a patriarchal family where the eldest male member is the head of the family. The elders are given lot of respect and their opinions are regarded with utmost importance while taking important decisions.

Although education is considered as a very important factor among the middle class people, most Pakistani women are not given the freedom to work. But nowadays, many joint families are disintegrating into nuclear families due to the social and economic limitations that are enforced by the joint family system.

Pakistan, is a country, that adheres to its traditional beliefs, values and customs especially in matters of religion. Although, the Pakistanis are deeply rooted in their cultural values, the nation is not lagging behind, with globalization affecting every part of the world. Westernization has embarked into the Pakistani culture which has paved the way for positive development.

Tourism in Pakistan

Pakistan is a rich and varied country in its own right. It is ancient and modern also. Besides the several historic and cultural sights that Pakistan has to offer, there is geographical and environmental diversity that makes Pakistan truly a destination for all seasons. Indeed Pakistan today presents a rich mosaic of nearly 60 centuries of continuous, eve changing history and culture in settings which range from the beaches of Karachi to the deserts of Thar and Cholistan, and from the green plains of the Punjab to the majestic and challenging mountains of the Hindukush, Himalayas and the Karakoram ranges. And then there are the cities, Peshawar, Lahore, Multan and Thatta, the folkloric histories of which have the ability to charm both the casual tourist as well as the visitor with special interest. The rich diversity that Pakistan offers the visitor is evident as you travel within Pakistan.

Visitors to Pakistan have often noted that in some places of the country you get the feeling that time has come to standstill since ages. In the gently undulating foothills of the mighty Karakorams and in the middle reaches of the towering Hindu Kush Mountains, there is a timeless beauty that is hard to surpass elsewhere. In these two mountain ranges you can experience a Pakistan version of the mythical Shangrila.

It is in these mountains that you have Gilgit, linked with China, in ancient times and in new, by the fabled Silk Route, the world’s highest oldest and toughest mountain road. This road was used for centuries by caravans from China which carried fabulous silk and other oriental merchandise to Arabia and Europe, Gilgit is also the place where the game of polo was born. Centuries ago it was played there at night with balls of fire. Today it is still played there at more or less the same site it has been played at far all these years. In these ranges too is Nanga Parbat, which at 26000 feet is one of the highest peaks in the world. Here too is the Khyber Pass, the route that most foreign invades used to enter the subcontinent from the North. Through this pass came at one time or another the might Mongols, the Turks, the Huns the Moghuls, and other.

The sense of history does not end there. In the foothills town of Chitral you will find that the inhabitants are the descendants of the Macedonians that rode with Alexander the Great when that great conqueror led his armies through the plains of Pakistan centuries ago. Here you will see the Kafir Kalas, called many a pagan tribe because they practice ancient Greak prayer rituals. But after a single look at the Kafirs you will say that this is the legendary land of health and beauty their unlined faces are just as serene at seventeen as at seventy. And all of this can be observed against the majestic backdrop of the 25290 feet high Trichmir Peak.

The reason that these regions in the north of Pakistan are said to be beyond the reach of time is that they are snowbound for most of the years, so modern life has not affected the way of life. In fact most of the inhabitants have not seen the outside world at all. Even the dialects they speak are all but extinct. To be there is indeed to take a trip beyond time, into land of great natural beauty and splendor.

Over the centuries the land that is now called Pakistan has been the cradle of many civilizations. The ruins at Harappa and Mohenjodaro are evidence of the high level of civilization of the people who lived there almost 5000 years also in the down, as it were of human history. Several centuries later, the Greeks led by the indomitable Alexander, left their footprints – indelibly as it turns out in the sands of north of Pakistan.

Soon after Alexander came the rise to prosperity of the great Gandhara civilization, an ear devoted mainly to Buddhist art and architecture. And with the passing of those years came Muslim rule of the subcontinent and the majestic grandeur of the Mughals.

They build the Badhahi Mosque, laid out the exotic Shalimar Garden and erected magnificent mausoleums for their families and the loved ones.

Traveling through Pakistan today, one can easily pick up the threads of history . One can experience it in the museums, the ruins, the shrines and bazaars. And can relive it in the stories and legends that still surround these places of beauty. In Karachi for instance, one could visit the Mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam the founder of the Nation of PAKISTAN.

The mausoleum is built entirely of white marble, it has an impressive dome that holds a huge crystal chandelier of Chinese origin. Then there is the quaint Bohri Bazar whole narrow streets and yelling hawkers make an unforgettable sight. And you should not leave Karachi with out visiting National Museum, whole Gandhara Art collection is said to be the finest in the world. Then you could visit Moenjodaro the ‘ Mound of Dead ‘ which was discovered in 1922 and opens up a fascinating window of life of the people who lived there around 2000 B.C.

Old Persia comes to life in Lahore, at the Shalimar Garden designed by the Persian land-escapist Ali Mardan, There are marble pavilions, a marble waterfall and more then 400 fountains, all in area of 42 acres. Emperor Shah Jahan ordered the construction of this Garden of Heaven in 1642 . Also in Lahore is the Anarkali Bazar, named after a pretty dances who was put to death by Emperor Akbar for having an affair with his son Prince Salim, who later became the Emperor Jehangir. Jehangir’s tomb is also in the city as is Wazir Khan’s Mosque which was constructed under the stewardship of the Governor of Lahore in 1643. But the most rewarding sight of all in Lahore is probably Lahore Fort a marvel of Mughal architecture begun in the 11th Century and completed finally by the end of the 16yth Century. Among the emperors who contributed to its splendour were the emperors, Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jehan. Here too is the beautiful Palaces of Mirrors, Shah Jehan’s quadrangle, and the pearl Mosque.

Overlooking the fort is the Badshahi Mosque the world’s largest which was constructed during the reign of Emperor Aurangzeb. Pakistan famous poet-philosopher Dr. Mohammad Iqbal lays buried outside the mosque.

Some 18 mile from Rawalpindi is the ancient seat of Oriental culture, Taxila. It was first mentioned in the literature as a satrapy of the Achemenian empire in the 6th century B.C. It was later invaded by Alexander the Great and passed through the control of subsequent rules until it came under the rule of Ashoka the Great, who molded the city into a center of learning philosophy and art. The city prospered during the creative Gandhara period that followed shortly after, but came to a catastrophic and pathetic end when it was attacked by the White Huns.

Today Taxila is a archaeologist’s paradise with a museum and historic sites scattered within a radius of a few miles. In Pakistan today one can indeed relive the past, transport oneself into bygone era of great kinds who were both warriors and philosophers, men in whole lifetimes rich and majestic histories unfolded. Sand not only is the visitor hound to the spellbound by the stories of the past, he will also be overwhelmed by the splendid natural beauty of the countryside which can be tranquil at times and awe-inspiring at others.