Consideration in choosing the right life insurance

For some, choosing the right life insurance will be a major challenge that they have to deal with if they want to be safe in the future. Even though we now have so many life insurance websites where we can easily compare and contrast a number of car insurance companies in one single page, there are still a lot of people out there who do not know about what they have to think about when they are looking for a life insurance program. To help those kinds of people this article is made. So, are you ready to find out what things you need to think about when looking for a life insurance?

The very first thing that you need to consider when looking for the right life insurance for you is the coverage that you need. For example, a life insurance program might just cover some illness that you might not get in the future. If you choose this kind of insurance program, it means that you are just wasting your money. You need to think about the insurance program that will be very helpful for you. After considering this, money is the second consideration. Just make sure that you can pay the fee every month!  

What is Payday loans and what makes it special?

             Sometimes, life can be out of your expectation. There is a time when you are at your lowest and feel that everything is wrong, including your financial aspect. Sometimes, your expenses are just not, as what you have planned in the beginning of the month. It means that you may need some more cash to get through the month. Payday loans can be a god alternative for you. Maybe, some of you have been familiar to this type of loan, while some others may only be familiar to bank loans. Well, here, I would like to give a brief explanation about payday loan and about what makes it special.

             As the name suggest, payday loan is a type of loan which uses your next payday as repayment time. You can apply for a loan anytime you need and you will pay the loan next month, right after you get your earnings. However, you can ask for more time to pay all your debt. This loan is now preferable because it is very easy to apply and because the process is very fast compared to the traditional loan in banks. It is a short time loan that will give you cash you need right away without any further ado.

Get car Insurance Quotes from Carinsurancerates.com

            Along with the development of the internet these days, there have been a lot of car insurance companies that offer car insurance online. Of course, it is a good news for people because it will help them to choose the best auto insurance easily, because they do not need to leave their rooms anymore only to get the best car insurance for their cars. They just need to go online and apply for the car insurance easily. The only problem that might appear to be very problematic for people is the fact that they mostly get confused in choosing the best online service among those online services available. They have to find the best car insurance that offers what they need and what they should give to their cars.

            One of the most recommended places for people to find complete and detailed references about some car insurance companies available these days is carinsurancerates.com. This site will not only provide information about some car companies available online, but also complete quotes about them so that it will be a lot easier for people to choose the best car insurance based on the quotes they get from this site. Besides that, every car insurance company will also be rated based on the quality of services they offer. 

Ukraine Travels and UEFA Euro 2012

Every Ukrainian city boasts plenty of cultural attractions. After having traveled in Ukraine, you will have a ton of great memories after seeing this country's historical and cultural landmarks. Ukraine is not only one of the largest European countries, but also a country with beautiful nature, rich cultural heritage and many unique towns and villages, where one can unmistakably feel the history and the spirit of the Ukrainian people.

Ukraine's landmarks are rich in variety and each region has its own unforgettable flavor. From the Crimea to the Carpathian Mountains, a string of unique castles and churches, palaces and museums, stretches in many cities, where almost every building is an architectural monument.

Kyiv is one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe. It was founded in the 5th century. The capital of Ukraine is often called 'the mother of Russian cities'. It is considered one of the most beautiful capitals of the world, and it is not surprising due to the number of unique historical monuments seen there. The main attractions include the Golden Gate of the 11th century, the Near and Far Caves of Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, which house the remains of Anthony and Theodosius of the Caves, Ilya of Murom, Nestor the Chronicler, and other legendary historical figures. The most famous street, except probably Kreshchatyk, is St. Andrew's Hill. An iconic place of the capital is Vladimir's Hill and the Pochayna River, where Prince Vladimir baptized Kyiv. The best known palaces are Klovsky and Mariinsky palaces. The heart of the city is the ensemble of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, one of the world's centers of Christian Orthodox Church and the priceless monument included in the list of UNESCO treasures.

Numerous museums of Kyiv include the Shevchenko National Museum, the National Museum of Folk Architecture and Life in Pirogovo, the State Historical and Cultural Reserve of Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, the historical and architectural monument-museum Kyiv Fortress. By the number of churches and temples, Kyiv is unmatched in the Commonwealth of Independent States. The complex of St. Sophia, built in the 11th century, stands out from the list as the symbol of Ukrainian spiritual life, and St. Vladimir's Cathedral and St. Andrew's Church are perhaps the city's most beautiful temples.

To the north of the capital there is the ancient city of Chernihiv, known for its historical and cultural monuments. Especially notable attractions are Pyatnitskaya church, Lyzogub House, Yeletsky and Trinity Monasteries as well as the caves inhabited by the people in the 11th century.

Dnepropetrovsk is one of the largest cities in the country. The local sights include the Potemkin's Palace, St. Nicholas Church, a few art and historical museums. Cathedral of the Transfiguration has a high architectural and cultural value, and it reflects the traditions and techniques of the Russian classical school during its heyday.

Odessa is one of the most picturesque cities in Ukraine. Odessa is an attraction in itself, but be sure to visit the famous Privoz Market and Deribasovskaya Street, Opera and Ballet Theatre and the Potemkin Stairs; Primorsky Boulevard and a semi-circular square with the monument to Duke de Richelieu. The best palaces in the city are Vorontsov, Potocki and Naryshkin Palaces. Other attractions include the Monastery of the Assumption and the Seminary, Old Stock Exchange, Odessa Sea Port (the largest on the Black Sea), etc.

Transcarpathia is widely known for the country's best resorts. It is a fantastically beautiful region of picturesque mountains, medieval castles, forests, mountain rivers, lakes, and springs. The famous resorts of Truskavets, Morshyn, Mirgorod, Kvasy, Shayan, and Svalyava, as well as a lot of nature reserves such as the Carpathian Biosphere Reserve, the National Park "Sinevir" and others boost the region's value also adding a unique flavor to the gorgeous Ukraine.

The UEFA European Soccer Championship is second only to the World Cup in importance and it will be held in Ukraine and Poland in June-July of 2012. Local tour operators are standing by waiting for an influx of soccer fans from all over Europe!

Japan: Land of the Rising Sun

A 'Western' country, Japan is located in the Far East, in the Pacific ocean, and has China, two Koreas and Russia as the neighboring states. This country and its people have very peculiar features, original culture, rich history and amazing landscapes.

The main feature that the tourists immediately notice in Japan is the carefully looked after natural environment. Any territory, even the smallest strip of land among the skyscrapers, should necessarily be decorated with a tiny lawn. Any pond can be turned into a tiny nature reserve that the residents of the community consider their shrine. Carefully preserved historic monuments and temples are scattered all over the country, and that is why Japan makes an unforgettable impression on everyone, who decides to visit it.

The symbols of the country are the biggest 'holy gate' in Japan called Wooden Door, Itsukushima shrine on the 'sacred' island of Miyajima, standing in the water in a small bay, and the famous beautiful volcano, Mount Fuji, surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Another icon of the country is Seto Ohashi Bridge, erected in the end of the 20th century over the Inland Seto Sea, from Honshu to Shikoku. Many 'pearl farms' in Japan are also interesting as tourist sites visited by thousands of tourists every year.

Tokyo is one of the largest cities in the world and the capital of Japan. It was founded in the middle of the 15th century following the outlook of the ancient Chinese capital Xi'an. This giant metropolis has many old wooden buildings and churches. They interestingly contrast the ultramodern neighborhoods. The center of the city is the Imperial Palace, former Edo Castle, which was constructed in the 15th century and was surrounded by picturesque parks. A lot of tourists also visit the temple of Toshogu Shrine, the Tokyo National Museum, the National Science Museum, the temple of Cannon goddess and many other places. In Tokyo, one will also find a complex of skyscrapers called Three Towers and the largest Harumi Yoyogi Park in Tokyo. Some of the minor, but no less interesting museums include the Museum of Subway, the Museum of Glasses, the Museum of Plumbing, the Museum of Bags etc.

To the northeast of Tokyo, there lies the Nikko National Park, located among picturesque lakes and known for the splendid Kegon and Shirakumo waterfalls and hot springs. The pearl of the resort is the Toshogu Shrine temple complex, which includes 23 monuments of architecture, including the famous pagoda and Yakusido temple. Numerous picturesque bridges are stretched over the waterways, and the most beautiful of them is the "sacred bridge" of Cinque. Mount Nantay is the place of the Buddhist temple Tachi-ki-Kannon and Kazaana caves, known as the caves of the winds.

The second largest city of the country is Yokohama. In the past, it was repeatedly destroyed by earthquakes, but today the city amazes with its ultra-modern architecture and the high speed of life. Yokohama is often called the city that never sleeps. Its main attractions are landscaped parks and an outdoor museum, which has gathered samples of traditional wooden buildings, temples and houses from all over the country. Here one will also find the largest and most renowned commercial district of the coutnry, the water park called the Island of Entertainment, and the Maritime Museum. However, it is difficult to stay in Yokohama for a long time because of the strong gas pollution and extremely high density of population.

Nara is the first imperial capital of the country, often visited because of its open-air museum, which houses the most important Buddhist temples and pavilions, pagodas and gardens. Located 70 km from Nara, the famous Horyuji Temple is recognized as the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lake Biwa is located in the central part of Honshu Island, north-east of the former capital of Kyoto. It is often mentioned in Japanese literature, since it lies close to the ancient capital. The lake has three islands, where big cities of Hikone and Otsu are located. Biwa is also known as the paradise for fishing.

Kazakhstan Travel Notes

A newly-emerged country, once republic of the former Soviet Union, Kazakhstan is a country with huge tourism potential. In the south, the country features monuments of the past, Islamic mosques and madrassahs. Almaty, the southern capital, is a busy political and financial center, a city with buzzing nightlife and lots of attractions. In the north, the Baikanur Cosmodrome, attracts visitors who wish to view the impressive launches of Russian spacecrafts.

The past centuries have given the lands of Kazakhstan many historical monuments. The mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi in the city of Turkestan is a unique example of medieval architecture. Numerous rooms are grouped around a square mausoleum hall, covered by one of the largest domes in Central Asia, eighteen meters in diameter. The majestic building is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Such historical and cultural monuments and mausoleums as Abat-Baytak and Aisha-Bibi, a necropolis of Karaman-Ata, palace complexes of Akyrtas and Baba-Ata, the ancient settlements of Koylyk, Issyk, and Berel are of considerable interest for touristrs. In total, Kazakhstan has more than 25 thousand monuments of history, archeology, architecture and monumental art. Kazakhstan is a lowland country, bordered by mountains. An example of such relief is the city of Almaty, where the windows of the houses have a view on the peaks of the Trans-Ili Alatau. This is a popular district of the Tien Shan, famous for its beauty of the mountain forests and alpine landscapes. Covering the area of nearly a thousand square miles, there is the Almaty Reserve located here. Almaty neighborhood is well-known for its orchards where amazingly big apples ripen. Among the sports facilities, one can mention the famous ice skating rink Medeo in the mountains.

Lake Balkhash is a unique natural phenomenon, being half fresh and half salty, 600 kilometers in length and surrounded by sand dunes and desert pastures. Another peculiar natural attraction is Lake Burabaj, admired for its relict pine forests, bizarre sculptures carved from granite by rain and wind. In the middle of the lake, there rises above the water surface a rocky island called Zhumbaktas. Its coast is overgrown with pine and birch forests. The combination of mountains, pine forests and the lake creates special climatic conditions, therefore a resort known for curative mud and mineral waters has been opened here.

Kazakhstan is not just an open air museum, but also a country with beautiful natural attractions, such as alpine meadows of the mountains, the majestic scenery of the Charyn River Canyon, and Lake Burabaj, mentioned in myths and legends. One of the most beautiful corners of Kazakhstan is Bayanaul National Park created to protect the unique flora and fauna of the north-eastern part of the country.

The most beautiful city of Kazakhstan is Almaty. Located near the Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains, it is characterized by original architectural ensembles that combine the elements of traditional style with the latest building structures. Chimbulak mountain sports base in the suburbs of Almaty attracts mountain climbers, hikers, skiers, seeking the ski slopes with a considerable vertical drop.

One of the most spectacular wonders of the country is the Charyn River. Along the river one will find a deep and picturesque canyon, while the forests of this vast desert oasis make a lasting impression on the traveler. The water, wind, and heat have given the banks of the river wonderful shapes, resembling the walls of the ancient city. Diverse flora and fauna, with giant ashes and poplars, over 300 species of birds, 20 species of amphibians and more than 800 arthropods give this place a unique appearance.

On the banks of the Ili river, there is a wonderful monument of nature, the Singing Dune. Located between the two mountain ranges, the dune is influenced by the winds in such a way that the sand remains in one place all the time, without moving anywhere. The sand produces a humming sound so powerful that its 'singing' can be heard for several kilometers.

Traveling in Iran

Iran, or ancient Persia, is a country with past so great and glorious that there would be very few countries in the world to match it. Its civilization started thousands of years ago with mighty empires that conquered half of the world. Remnants of those empires still attract curious people from all parts of the planet.

Iran is a unique country where the past and the present co-exist in a harmonious unity. Historical sights of Iran are not just a pile of half-ruined buildings or prehistoric mosques, minarets and mausoleums. In fact, this country is a piece of living history, where nothing is forgotten. The great palaces of the kings of Persia, the clay fortress wall in Bam, the tomb of biblical prophet Daniel, paradisiacal gardens, ancient bazaars, and many other things are symbols of Iran.

Iran is a very interesting country in all spheres of life, but its rich history, full of different events, is the factor that motivates people from the rest of the world to come here and personally get acquainted with this legendary place.

Iran is mentioned in many legends and stories often as the scene of unbelievable events. According to some scientists, Iran's ancient city of Tabriz was the place of the divine Eden garden. Another Iranian city of Shush, located on the site of the ancient city of Susa, had been the capital of one of the most advanced civilizations in the world. Unique castles, palaces, mausoleums, and tombs are all the icons of modern Iran, which are definitely worth seeing with your own eyes.

The capital of Iran, Tehran, is a real metropolis, bustling with the voices of millions of people. However, modern concrete structures have diminished the oriental flavor of the city. In Tehran, there are not so many tourist spots. You can visit the National Museum and the Museum of Persian Carpets, Azadi Square with the monument to freedom, where from you can get a panoramic view of the city. Golestan Palace is the best place to admire Arabic architecture. At the head office of the Central Bank, you will be able to see a small museum of jewelry treasures, formerly owned by Persian shahs. The city has many parks and beautiful lakes. But the best kind of entertainment in Tehran is visiting the old bazaar, which is so big that it actually seems to be a separate town and, in fact, is one of the biggest bazaars in the world.

The tourists will have to travel far from Tehran to see the pearl of Iran - the ancient fortress city of Bam, surrounded by plantations of eucalyptus and palm trees. Iran has many interesting places, but the small town of Bam can be called one of the wonders of the world. Bam was a major trading center on the famous Spice Road, which ran from China and Indo-China through Central Asia and Iran. The town is small and cozy, but its majestic monuments dominate the landscape. They include the Arg-e-Bam Citadel, the remnants of the outer rampart, the internal castle complex, and the tomb of the famous astronomer Mirza Naim.

One of the oldest cities in the world and the first capital of ancient Persia is the city of Hamadan. Today, it is the major commercial and industrial center famous for its pleasant summer climate, lots of interesting places and beautiful gardens. In Hamadan, one will find the mausoleum and the museum of the philosopher and physician Avicenna, the Jewish mausoleum, Hakmatana hill with the ruins of fortifications of the Median period, the palace of Darius, and the Burj-e Qurban Tower. In the 16th century, the city of Esfahan was called 'half of the world.' Even today this city is unique and inimitable. Esfahan is the homeplace to a great number of architectural and historical monuments and great mosques. In this city one can find a small women's mosque of Sheikh Lotfollah, the mosque of Imam Ali Kapu and his Palace. Imam Mosque impresses with its grandeur and richness of decoration. The most romantic city of Iran is Shiraz. The city of love, poetry, and blooming roses, it was rightly called 'the capital of the poetry of Persia'. Literally any old city of Iran is a museum under the open sky. Once you enter it, you feel being transmitted to the Middle Ages, and that is the real Iran.

Vatican City State: A Unique Country

The Vatican is a truly unique state within a city, a city-museum which is inextricably linked to the history of the Roman Empire. Here, unique works of the best artists of all ages can be seen literally everywhere. Temples, palaces, museum collections of ancient art, masterpieces of Italian painting and sculpture are noteworthy and attract the guests' attention. Despite the small area of the Vatican, it is widely known throughout the world. The sights of this city make it very attractive for tourists. One of the most beautiful architectural monuments of the Vatican City is the St. Peter's Cathedral. It is located on St. Peter's Square, designed by the famous Bernini. It has an oval shape and is surrounded by a row of pillars, which includes four rows of Doric pillars crowned by a balustrade with the statues of saints. In the center of the square, there is the Egyptian Obelisk, which was brought to the Vatican by Caligula, and two fountains built in the 17th century.

The old cathedral was built by Emperor Constantine in 349 on the spot where, according to the legend, Peter the Apostle had been martyred. The construction of the new building began in 1506 and was later completed by the well-known masters of the Renaissance period Raphael, Michelangelo, and Sangallo. The building of the new St. Peter's was to take the form of a Greek cross, crowned with a huge dome. Continuing the work begun by Bramante, Michelangelo redesigned the project and built the dome of the cathedral.

Another remarkable architectural monument of the Vatican is the residence of the Pope, which was built during the rule of Pope Symmachus in the 6th century. During the Middle Ages, the papal residence was in the Lateran Palace, but at the end of the 14th century it was moved to the Vatican. In 1473, Pope Sixtus IV ordered the construction of the chapel, which was named Sistine Chapel in his honor. His successor, Pope Innocent VIII, began the construction of the second papal palace in the northern part of the city.

St. Paul's Chapel was built in the first half of the 16th century and later became the place, where the magnificent paintings of Michelangelo, 'Conversion of Saint Paul' and 'The Martyrdom of Saint Paul', are stored.

In the Vatican, one can go to a number of different museums. The most interesting ones are the Museum of Egyptian Art, the Pio-Clementino Museum, the Museum of Etruscan art, the Chiaramonti Museum. Here one can find unique exhibits of art, collections of antique statues and mosaic works, including the famous statue of Apollo Belvedere. The Museums of Egyptian and Etruscan art contain a rich collection of paintings. The Chiaramonti Museum displays a collection of archaeological artifacts, Roman statues and busts, including the famous bust of Cicero.

Michelangelo's frescoes, painted on the walls of the Sistine Chapel, are a true masterpiece of the Vatican City. In the Sistine Chapel, there are also works of other great masters of the Renaissance: Perugino, Rosselli, Botticelli, and Signorelli. In the Art Gallery of the Vatican, there is a collection of paintings created during the Renaissance period. Particular attention is paid to the works by Raphael and Leonardo da Vinci.

The major attraction of the city is the Vatican Library, which holds about 65 thousand ancient manuscripts, 400 thousand ancient books, as well as many maps and unique copies of books - the handwritten poetry of Virgil and Cicero. A rich collection of the library also includes manuscripts and letters of art and culture of the Middle Ages, and many different editions of biblical texts.

Travel Trips For Kenya

For many a trip to Kenya is a dream of a lifetime. Just thinking about the amazing sights is enough to make you want to hop on the next plane for Nairobi. But there are many considerations to ensure your trip is safe and enjoyable. Here is a list to keep in mind.

Passport &Visas

A passport is required for any international travel and Kenya requires most foreigners to obtain a visa before officially entering the country (Commonwealth country citizens do not need a visa, however). Visas are available at Kenya's international airports and main border crossings; one can also obtain a visa beforehand in one's home country.

Tourist visa are good for up to 30 days and if you'll be leaving the country and then returning (many people cross over to Tanzania to climb Kilimanjaro or trek the Serengeti) be sure to get a multiple-entry visa so you can return to Kenya without problems.

Immunizations

There are no required immunizations to enter Kenya except from countries where Yellow Fever is present in which case you will need to bring your immunization card showing an inoculation. From Europe or the United States nothing is required.

That being said, medical professionals highly recommend:

1. Diphtheria 

2. Hepatitis A 

3. Typhoid 

4. Yellow Fever 

5. Polio (update) 

6. Tetanus (update)

Malaria is a risk and Kenya is the home of a strain resistant to chloroquine. When receiving anti-malarial drugs, be sure to specify that you are visiting Kenya to get the right treatment.

Safety

Kenya is a tourist friendly country and for the most part one will find the people friendly and welcoming. That being said, many areas in Africa are poverty stricken and Kenya is no different. Most foreigners attract locals selling goods and those looking for a handout. Simply stay calm and one can oblige or politely decline and be on your way. One should not be out alone at night whether in the city or the country.

In terms of good rules for traveling to any foreign country, one should keep a copy of one's passport and keep it in a safe place. Also as a precaution, one should not carry a large amount of cash nor wear jewelry that would attract any attention. If carrying a camera or video equipment, be discreet and be aware of surroundings at all times. If it is necessary to carry a large sum of cash, invest in a money belt of other hidden wallet system.

If renting a car keep windows and doors closed and locked while driving, especially in the cities. Driving at night is treacherous as many cars and trucks are missing headlights and the roads are extremely rutted and filled with potholes.

Travel Seasons

For a trip to Kenya you want to plan the dates carefully. To get the most out of a trip and to get the best chance at seeing wildlife, try and visit during the dry season. During this time the animals cluster around key waterholes so viewing is easier. If interested in seeing the great migration of wildebeest in the Rift Valley, the best time is late-July through September.

So with some careful preparation and planning, one can truly get the most out of a trip to Kenya. From the Massai Mara to the island of Lamu, Kenya has a lot to offer the adventurous traveler.

How to Make the Most of Whale Watching

With the killing of whales now condemned by most countries, and more interest paid to them, whale watching has become a most popular pastime worldwide.

From about 1971, commercial whale watching began in North America, with most interest paid to Fin and Beluga whales and as time went on, the Humpback whales and Southern Right aroused people's interest. Since the middle of the eighties, with worldwide surveys taking place, whale watching gained a large amount of interest. It began raking in revenue, as it became the latest novelty of the time for tourism, in 119 countries.

The viewing of whales in the countries that attract them to their shores for the spring season, encourages visitors in droves. The best and closest ways for observing them close up is by taking whale watching trips. The boat operators know the best areas for sighting whales and promise you an interesting day on the ocean.

Take along a windproof waterproof jacket, as the sea spray can make you quite wet. A sweater is recommended; if the wind blows, it can be quite chilly. Rather have it and not need it than not have it and freeze. Sunscreen and a hat for the sun are must-haves.

A pair of sunglasses protect against the glare and reflection on the sea surface of curious whales and dolphins that are nosy. Cameras and binoculars are also useful to have with you on a whale watching cruise.

The possibility of the boat standing idly on rolling swells may make you feel a little queasy if you are a person prone to seasickness, so be prepared accordingly. The best areas to sit when on a whale watching cruise is either at the bow or the raised areas, as it is not good to disturb the whales by motoring up too close to them. Whales do not like disturbance on their domain of sea.

The experience of watching whales accompanied by an expert relating information about their behavioural habits is certainly educational, and adds to the enjoyment of whale watching trips. Whale antics are a sheer delight to watch as they cavort among the rolling small waves, turning turtle, flapping fins or sending up high sprouts of water resembling those of a fountain. Furthermore, they really like to perform and splash about the waves. When they decide that they have had enough, they simply dive down below sea level, out of sight to their waiting whale fans!

Top Things To See In Kenya

A trip to the African country of Kenya is a dream for many. One cannot help think of the vast Savannahs and incredible wildlife. If you are planning to go, here is what the experts recommend you do not miss.

The Massai Mara: This is what one thinks of when they dream of a trip to Africa. The great migration of wildebeest during the dry season is one of the most amazing spectacles to be seen. The wildlife here includes what is known as the "big five" for animal spotting: buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion, and rhinoceros. One will also see various antelope species, zebra, giraffe and hyenas. No trip to Kenya should be without a visit.

Lamu: The island of Lamu has become a backpacker and hikers paradise, but there is plenty to experience in the town of Lamu as well. First settled by the Swahili over 700 year ago, this is one of the older towns in all of Kenya. The town has no motor vehicles so donkeys are the choice for travel, or venture into the sea and take a dhow to explore the island and enjoy the view.

Lake Nakuru National Park: When you see films of the great pink flamingos gliding over the water, you're probably looking at Lake Nakuru. The flamingo population took a dip due to pollution, but is expanding thanks to renewed environmental conscientiousness. One can also catch a look at white rhino, hippo, ostrich, and lion too.

Mount Kenya: This is the second highest peak in Africa and can be climbed and trekked by everyday folk. There is lodging in and around many of the trekking paths as well as huts and campsites. If one is more adventurous a multi-day climb to Point Lenana can be arranged.

Amboseli National Park: This area is also wonderful for spotting animals like elephant, cheetah and leopard. The views of Mount Kilimanjaro are also stunning (Mt. Kilimanjaro is in Tanzania). The park is near the homeland of the Massai and often their cattle can be spotted on the plains.

Lake Turkana: Part of the Kenya lake system, Lake Turkana is also known for its abundance of pink flamingos. It is also home to gigantic Nile crocodile which prowls its shores in search of a meal. It is an alkaline lake in the desert area so the landscape is truly unique. From Baboon Point, one has a breathtaking view of the lake.

Lewa Downs: This is a wildlife conservancy where black rhino and other endangered species like Grevvy's zebra and sitatunga (a type of antelope) are protected. It is a birdwatcher paradise too with over 200 species having been observed. It is here that England's Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton.

Tsavo National Park: This is one of the last wild landscapes tourists can enjoy in Africa. Animal safari here is more adventurous and the habitat makes it more challenging to spot game. The park is actually two parks: Tsavo West and Tsavo East, with the West Park having more tourist-oriented areas, such as an underwater viewing location where you can see elephants take their baths and safely observe hippopotamus and crocodiles.

Watamu: This natural park on the coast features two lagoons which are its main attraction: Turtle Bay and Blue Lagoon. There are many water-oriented activities such as dolphin watching, snorkeling and scuba diving. Another popular thing to do is sale around on Africa's traditional sailboat, the Dhow. The town of Malindi is just north and has wonderful beaches.

North Central Kenya Reserves: The EwasoNgiro River runs through three reserves in the area: Buffalo Springs, Sambura and Shaba which all border each other. The river is the congregation point for the wide variety of animals that live in the parks. Camels are used for safaris and can provide a different view versus that of a traditional safari truck.

How to Secure Your Kids While Travelling: Top 5 Useful Tips That Will Help

It's a fact that your child's safety should be the single most important thing. But do you know that if you constantly look at them while riding, you are putting everyone into great danger?

So, what could be the possible solutions here? You will need focus to keep your driving safe and want to make sure that your child is protected from potential danger at the same time. And to achieve those goals, I have some useful tips to share with you.

Tip #1: Consider asking a friend to take the ride with you

This is one of the best idea you can implement to make sure you can shoot down two birds with only one shot. Your friend will make the ride less boring with social chats. And I believe you will feel much more relaxed with her presence.

Moreover, she can keep an eye on your kid while you focus on riding as well. If she is a good mother, it's even better as she would know what to do to make your kid smile.

Tip #2: Always make sure that you're free of alcohol

Alcohol and caffeine could be detrimental to drivers. They could make you feel sleepy and unfocused. And you know it, it's your duty to make sure that both you and your kid are safe from unwanted car crashes.

That's the reason why you shouldn't take in any alcoholic drinks before driving. They are not good in general not just while driving.

Tip #3: Have some toys for your kids to play

Kids love toys. And it would be better if you let them play with their favorites. So, the very first thing you should do to implement this tip is to identify exactly what kind of toys your kids love to play with. After that, you can give them what they want and focus on your job.

One special note here, you should never give them something small or edgy as they could unintentionally swallow them. It's very dangerous!

Tip #4: Drive slower than normal

Unless you want to increase the risk, you should always take the slower route especially when you have small children going with you.

Driving slowly will help you handle unexpected situations better thus decreasing the potential risk of confronting car crashes. And even if you were about to hit, thanks to slow driving, the damage would be much less significant.

Tip #5: Always equip the best car seat for your kids

It's highly recommended that you equip the best protection system for your smaller children. Although your car might have safety system in place such as seat-belts and locks, you should go one step further to protect your kids with specialized car seats.

There are many brands on the market to choose from and one might be good at this aspect but bad at others. So, it's really important for you to identify the best deals possible. They might be costly at time, but I believe that they are necessary in keeping your child away from danger.

Why Tintagel Makes a Great Base for a Cornwall Holiday

Cornwall is famed as a great location for family breaks, thanks to its beaches, countryside and wide range of attractions. Tintagel is a perfect base to explore this from, as the village on the Atlantic coast is within easy travelling distance of a selection of fascinating destinations.

Opt to stay in a holiday cottage in Tintagel and you will discover there is lots to do just a short walk away. The highlight of a getaway here is a tour of the remains of the castle; legend has it that King Arthur was born in the fortress and that Merlin lived in a cave underneath it.

There are other sites in the village related to the mythical monarch, including King Arthur's Hall. You will also want to see the National Trust-owned Old Post Office, a beautifully-restored medieval yeoman's farmhouse that was briefly a postal centre in Victorian times.

If you take a car with you to Cornwall, you will find a host of other attractions just a short drive from Tintagel. Crealy Great Adventure Park near Wadebridge is a fun day out for families with children, as it has a petting zoo, indoor and outdoor adventure playgrounds and terrifying rides, such as The Beast and Morgawr.

A day trip to Boscastle is another good choice, as it is one of the prettiest villages in the county and there is lots to discover outdoors. The National Trust owns most of the land here and has placed paths across it, so it is easy to explore the area.

Take a stroll up to Penally Point cliffs to enjoy the views and follow the trail through Forrabury Stitches, a rare example of a well preserved celtic strip field system. If the weather is not good during your time in Boscastle, you could visit the Museum of Witchcraft to see its collection of magic-themed artefacts.

Every holiday should include a treat and in Cornwall that means a trip to Padstow. The town has some beautiful beaches ideal for long walks and is also where you will find Prideaux Place, a magnificent Elizabethan manor house and gardens.

After seeing them, reward yourself with a meal at one of the eateries owned by television chef Rick Stein. He has four in Padstow, including one of the UK's best fish and chip shops, a stylish bistro and the upmarket The Seafood Restaurant, where his team transform the local catch into sumptuous gourmet dishes.

Travel Indonesia: Jakarta, Sumatra and More

Read about the beauties and attractions of Indonesia, a country in South-East Asia, between two oceans. This country promises great experiences to people who are interested in exploring diverse landscapes and cultures.

Indonesia is located in Southeast Asia. The country is washed by the Pacific and the Indian Ocean and includes more than 13,600 islands. The nature of the archipelago is characterized by tropical rainforests, majestic volcanoes and lagoons. Unique culture, national parks, nature reserves, and excellent resorts with lots of opportunities for rest make Indonesia a popular place for many travelers.

Jakarta is the capital and the largest city of Indonesia. Jakarta is situated on the northwest coast of Java and is known as the city with an original mixture of numerous buildings of the 17th-18th centuries, canals and multiple 'national' neighborhoods, each with a unique style. A paved area near Taman Kota Fatah, surrounded by old buildings overlooking the canal, is one of the centers of Batavia, the old part of the city which is often visited by organized groups of tourists. Nearby, the tourists will see the Jakarta History Museum in the former City Hall, an ancient gun as the symbol of an entire epoch, the Doll Museum, Chicken Market drawbridge erected in the 17th century, and the Bahari Museum with a lookout tower. Some more extravagant attractions of the capital include Sunda Kelapa, the old port, and the oldest temple of the city, Tszine-Yuan.

The second most recognized tourist area is Medan Merdeka, known as Freedom Square, with a 132-meter National Monument. Nearby one can find the National Museum of Indonesia with unique historical and ethnological collections, the Museum of National History and of Indonesian Culture. Of special interest is the impressive building of the presidential palace, the Maritime Museum and Villelme church. Colonial past is perceived in the architecture of the Portuguese Church. One of the largest religious mosques in Southeast Asia is Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta. Shopping is offered in the bustling Mangadau shopping center and Glodok Bazaar. Cutting-edge business districts, architecture of all styles, the famous zoo, water parks, cultural and entertainment complexes and the largest and most popular park in Jakarta, Jaya Ancol, contribute to the general tourist impression of the city.

Yogyakarta attracts the attention of tourists due to a huge palace complex of Sultan's Kraton, numerous museums, and the exquisite temple complex Lara Jonggrang in the nearby Prambanane region. In the area of Surabaya, the capital of East Java, one will find the attractive temples of Malang district and Mount Bromo. In the south of the island, there is a sample of medieval Indonesian art, the 'Temple of a Thousand Buddhas' built in the 8th-9th centuries.

Bali Island is the most developed tourist area of Indonesia. Denpasar, the capital and the administrative center of the island, is a surprisingly quiet city filled with aromas of plants and unusual fresh air. Many small buildings of traditional architecture, quiet cozy streets, and the constantly shining sun give the city a special charm. Nearby, there is the international Ngurah Rai airport, the main transport hub of the island. 'The Island of the Gods' itself attracts tourists with its pristine landscapes, tropical rainforests and majestic volcanoes, blue lagoons and lush tropical jungle. As for mam-made attractions, one can mention temples and superb resorts. Bali is famous for the tolerant attitude of the local people towards the lifestyle of foreigners, so it surely makes this island a perfect place for a relaxing holiday.

Sumatra is often associated with intense volcanic activity, hundreds of miles of beaches with dark sand and dozens of pristine mountain lakes. However, the region is also known for its turbulent historical past evidenced by the ruins of ancient temples and palaces. The most interesting places include Parapat luxury resort on the shores of the magnificent volcanic Lake Toba, the royal palace and the tombs of Samosir island, mosques, museums, a crocodile farm near Medan, and an orangutan rehabilitation center. In the northern part of Sumatra, one will find the largest reserve of the country, Gunung Leuser, where rare species of Sumatran rhinoceros, tigers, wild bulls and orangutans are preserved.

To design a trip to Indonesia, you can contact one of the Indonesian travel agents or Indonesian tour operators. They will help you prepare a tour with least effort and make your trip a great experience.

How to Take Your Luggage When You Are Going On a Trip

Whenever you set off on a trip that is going to keep you away from home for a few days, it is essential for you to carry some luggage with you. The most important aspect of carrying your belongings is to choose the right carrier. You may need to decide whether to use a suitcase, a travel bag or a backpack. It all depends on what you are going to carry and how long you are going to be away from home.

In case you are going to make an overseas trip, your luggage carrier has to be a highly durable one which is of light weight. There are lots of such travel bags and suitcases available in the market. Most of them are large enough to carry all your luggage yet light enough to not to make your luggage too heavy. Most of them are made out of strong light weight plastic. Almost all of them have wheels and handles to help you move them easily.

When you travel locally in your car, your luggage has to be packed in flexible bags so that you will find it easier to pack them in the boot of your car. There are many such bags made out of durable materials. They serve the purpose and they last long. Often, you could buy them in online stores at discounted prices. They are available in many shapes and attractive colors.

Almost all travelers pack something in to their carry-on baggage as well. It is a good idea to have a flexible bag for this type of baggage. However, it has to be a bag that is durable enough to go places. It is a good idea to buy one made out of ballistic nylon. Though bags made out to this material are flexible they are very strong. They are not very expensive either. Since there are similar materials that are used for the manufacture of bags, it is necessary to ask the salesman to make sure that what you buy is the right one.

Backpacks are also good for carrying your belongings either on long trips or even when you are on short distance travelling. There are backpacks made out of highly durable material that are suitable for any long trip; even overseas. The good thing with some of the back packs is that they have ample space for all your paraphernalia such as the bottle of water, the camera and the laptop.

South America Travel Tips: Crossing the Chile-Peru Border

For backpackers on the Gringo Trail or for other types of travelers with time enough to cross borders overland (instead of needing the efficiency of air travel), crossing the border between Peru and Chile will be necessary. This route goes overland from the border city of Tacna in Peru to the counterpart city in Arica. These two cities are 32 miles (53 km) apart. Tacna is not frequently a stop for most travelers, but rather a transit point to Arequipa, Puno, or other top travel destinations in Peru. Meanwhile, Arica is somewhat of a burgeoning Chile travel destination, with excellent surfing and a quaint, small town vibe.

Most travelers must face a border crossing from Peru to Chile after having visiting top Peru travel destinations such as Cusco, Machu Picchu, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Puno and Lake Titicaca. With desires to continue adventuring in Chile, travelers will cross the border to destinations such a San Pedro de Atacama and points further south; along the coast, this usually means Iquique, another laidback beach town similar to Arica, followed by Valaparaiso and Santiago, perhaps stopping in La Serena along the way, and the on to Patagonia or over to Argentina via Mendoza.

The first step before these adventures can begin is getting to Tacna. Bus service from Lima, Cusco, and Puno is frequent, with daily departures from these and other cities. Unlike travel from Bolivia or Argentina into Chile, direct international bus service from Peru is difficult to find. However, once in Tacna, getting to the Chile side is fairly easy. Flores, as well as a few other bus companies, offers international bus service across the border. However, a slightly more efficient option is taking a shared cab service, obtainable from the international bus terminal in Tacna - this is adjacent to one of the national bus terminals in the city. (Several buses from Puno arrive to a different national terminal about 7 minutes by taxi from the international terminal.) Cabs are shared between 5 passengers in addition to the driver. The car heads to the border, about 30 km distant. Travelers pass through Peruvian immigration - the agent will take the small white migration card received upon entrance to Peru - and then continue on to Chilean immigration and customs. Throughout this process, whether in a shared car or a bus, all passengers move step by step as a unit.

Once at the Chile border check, once officer will examine passports and clarify the purpose of travel, then all travelers continue to customs, placing all luggage on an x-ray belt to ensure that no plant goods or other prohibited items are being entered. After this process is completed, all passengers will once again board the vehicle and ride the remaining 20 km to the international terminal in Arica. Here, travelers can rest in this laidback beach town with interesting historical and archaeological sites, or continue southward to further adventures.

This article was written by a travel expert at Latin America For Less who specializes in helping you organize fully customizable South America vacation packages. Whether you want to travel to Peru, Chile, or other top South America travel destinations, Latin America For Less can help you with destination ideas and travel tips.

Danbury CT Historic Homes: Hearthstone Castle

Hearthstone Castle located in Danbury Connecticut's Tarrywile Park was built between 1895 and 1899 by E. Starr Sanford who was a very successful New York City-based portrait photographer and invented one of the first movie cameras. Originally known as "Sanford's Castle," his home is listed in Danbury's National Register of Historic Places.

The castle was originally intended to be the lavish honeymoon home for Sanford's wife. It was designed by the architect Ernest G. W. Dietrich whose drawings of his homes and castles were extensively published in the architectural periodicals of the time.

The three-story turreted structure had seventeen rooms, including nine bedrooms, a library and a billiard room. The rock that was used to build the castle was quarried from the Tarrywile property that today is Tarrywile Park, and transported on a small railroad constructed for this purpose.

All of the wood used in the building of the castle was imported from Italy. In its heyday, the castle was quite a showplace conceived and built by one of the leading image makers of his day, and was also capable of producing its own electricity.

Sanford only lived in his castle home for five years before he sold it in 1902 to industrialist Victor Buck. In 1918 it was sold to Charles Darling Parks, president of the American Hatters and Furriers Co., who bought it for his daughter Irene Parks as a wedding gift. She renamed it Hearthstone Castle after its eight stone fireplaces, and occupied the castle as her home until her death in 1982.

The last residents of the Hearthstone Castle were Richard and Constance Jennings, her heirs who lived there until March 1987 when the entire Tarrywile Estate was sold to the town of Danbury. Today, Tarrywile Park includes Tarrywile Mansion also on the National Register of Historic Places, picnic areas, gardens, orchards, fields, ponds, woods, campsites, footpaths and hiking trails that cover 722 acres of rugged terrain.

Unfortunately, the castle was not able to be well maintained under Danbury's ownership, and the roof collapsed, ceilings have fallen, walls have crumbled and Hearthstone Castle had to be closed to the public due to safety concerns.

It has been said that several hauntings are known to exist on the grounds of the Hearthstone Castle including reports of shadowy figures, glowing mists in the castle's windows, roof and surrounding area. Hikers have reported being pushed and having sticks thrown at them.

The castle's first owner, E. Starr Stanford died an unusual death when the boat he was on was struck by lightning that badly damaged the arteries of his eyes. The man who had built his career as a photographer, camera inventor and image maker never recovered his eyesight and died three years later.

The Tarrywile Park Authority are considering two options for renovating the castle and surrounding real estate. The first option involves developing the Castle into a three season pavilion and observation tower.

The second option includes the complete restoration of the castle and development of a fully functioning building with lodge areas, restaurant, museum, conference rooms, classrooms, staff residence and gift shop. It is hoped the restored castle and grounds would provide a major attraction and gathering place for the city of Danbury and recover a historic castle home on the National Register of Historic Places.

Georgia Travel Guide

Georgia is a Christian country in the Caucasus, on the border between Asia and Europe, with thousands of years of history, very peculiar landscapes and gorgeous mountains, and people who a famous for their hospitality.

Georgia is a unique country with huge tourism potential. About three hundred of mountain and seaside resorts clearly state the country's possibilities for a meaningful rest, and the Black Sea coast is a popular summer destination. Over ten thousand unique monuments of archeology, history, architecture and art, as well as numerous monuments of nature contribute to Georgia's international recognition as an important tourist hub of the Caucasian region. On top of that, the country is inhabited by hospitable people, so ancient and rich, as the land itself.

Tbilisi is one of the oldest cities in the world. It was founded in the 4th millennium BC, and its name originally meant 'warm springs'. The historic core of the capital is the Old Town, located at the foot of the mountain and dominated by small stone and brick houses with carved wooden balconies, typical of 'Tbilisi architecture'. Almost all the buildings are historical or cultural monuments, and they create an authentic impresion of the famous 'Georgian courtyard' repeatedly mentioned in literature. In the center of Tbilisi, there are the remains of Narikala fortress and St. Mary's church, which are some of the oldest edifices in the city. The Sioni Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady, the Church of St. David, the pantheon of outstanding statesmen of the country, the legendary Tbilisi sulfur baths, Metechi temple with a monument to the founder of Tbilisi Vakhtang Gorgasal, Paliashvili Opera House and many other interesting attractions are among the city's main magnets for tourists. According to the number of cultural monuments, Tbilisi is one of the richest cities in the world. The best museums of the city include the Museum of Georgian Art, the Museum of Art, the Museum of Folk Architecture, and the Museum of Silk. Numerous theaters and amusement parks offer a splendid quiet rest and cultural enrichment.

Not far from the capital, there is acting Betania Monastery, which is considered one of the finest examples of Georgian church architecture. To the north of the capital, there is Mtskheta, another Georgian cult place and its ancient capital. Here the famous Jvari monastery is located as the symbol of Christianity on Georgian soil. Another attraction of this city is the huge Svetitskhoveli Cathedral restored in the 15th century. The modern church was erected on the site of the first Christian church in Georgia, which had been built in the distant 4th century. The large and well-preserved Hartsvisi Castle is located near the town of Akhalkalaki, in the vicinity of the famous cave city Vardzia. Legend has it that the citadel was taken by Alexander the Great. In the 12th century the castle was revived again, and soon grew to the extent of the city. But then it was destroyed by the Mongols and later came under the power of the Turks. Gonio Fortress is located to the south of Batumi, near the border with Turkey. Tmogvi is a small castle on a cliff overlooking the Mtkvari River. However, the path leading to the mountain fortress is very dangerous, and the way may take at least an hour.

Kutaisi is one of the most unusual cities in the country. Its interesting picturesque quay, the Historical and Ethnographic Museum, the Paliashvili Museum, the Art Gallery and the famous ruins of the Cathedral of Our Lady create the list of the city's main sights.

The city of Borjomi is situated in a picturesque valley and is famous for its mineral waters. Borjomi is glorified not only by the excellent natural conditions. It is also known for its cultural attractions, such as the summer residence of the last Russian emperor, Timotes Ubani monastery complex, and a unique Borjomi reserve considered to be a haven for numerous species of flora and fauna and the best place for ecotourism in the Transcaucasia.

Adjara is another popular area in Georgia. Washed by the Black Sea, and located at the foot of the mountain ranges of the Caucasus, this ancient land has a mild subtropical climate and beautiful natural environment.

West Coast Road Trip Day 6 - South to Carmel

On this the sixth day of our epic family extravaganza that began in Spokane, WA, we all agreed that San Francisco wasn't easy to leave. But we had to continue south on our West Coast Road Trip, taking a somewhat short drive south to Carmel By-the-Sea. Departing from Fisherman's Wharf, we set out to see if all the good things that have been said about Carmel were true...

Although we'd initially planned to drive as close to the Pacific Ocean as possible throughout our entire west coast road trip, a wrong turn, a tired driver and a desire to get to Carmel as soon as possible won out over more ocean view driving.

So rolling along down Highway 101, past mountains, small towns, and farms, we left San Francisco behind. We found our way back to Highway 1, the ocean, and Monterey; and after a fairly short drive we reached Carmel.

There were six features of Carmel that particularly stood out: The restaurants, Carmel City Beach, shopping, art galleries, the people, and the 17-mile drive.

There were so many restaurants in Carmel, I found it unfortunate to only have one stomach. We decided on an Italian dinner at Il Fornaio, lunch at Palisserie Boissiere Restaurant & Bakery, a meal out on the patio at the Village Corner Mediterranean Bistro and snacks from other quality establishments. We had good experiences at each place, and left plenty of others on our list for next time.

Carmel City Beach had a great vibe. It's a large, clean beach with a great view and lots of free parking nearby. The beach is also close enough to the shops and art galleries that you could walk right down instead of driving.

Although I'm not a big shopper, the shopping scene in Carmel offered something for everyone. There were many interesting stores and boutiques of all price ranges, from the modest to the luxury. I preferred the locally based shops, but there are were also the nationally known places such as Tiffany, Louis Vuitton, Coach and Tommy Bahama.

What I was looking forward to investigating more than the shops were the art galleries. Carmel is known to have a lot of them, and of course I visited as many as possible. There were actually so many galleries that I couldn't get to all of them in the short amount of time we were in Carmel. There were galleries of all kinds: large, small, artist-owned (very cool, although none of them were open at the time), all with different styles and price ranges. Seeing a few original Brian Blood paintings and the California Impressionist paintings at Karges Fine Art Gallery were personal favorites.

As we navigated through town, it seemed everyone we met in the various businesses were nice and friendly people. We felt welcome in Carmel, which is more than I can say about another well-known coastal town in the next state to the north. Feeling welcome made our experience that much better.

And finally, though the 17 Mile Drive isn't technically part of Carmel, it's right next door. The drive took us through Del Monte Forest and Pebble Beach, past beautiful homes and sites like Pebble Beach Golf Course, Bird Rock, Cypress Point Lookout, and the Lone Cypress.

As an artist, I found myself picturing living and working in a place like Carmel. With its excellent weather, many creative people, city streets without parking meters and proximity to the ocean, all the stories proved true. Whether you're an artist, art lover art collector, or just want to visit a unique area on this planet, I highly recommend you go to Carmel if you can.

European Microstates: Luxembourg Travels

Luxembourg was founded over 1,000 years ago and became a nice, neat and lively city. A wide variety of architectural patterns, bridges, cones and spikes of palaces and churches, monuments, parks, buildings of different periods and styles form a harmonious ensemble. The capital is the cultural center of the Duchy. Tourists will be delighted to visit the National Library, the Municipal Theatre, the Conservatory, the Symphony Orchestra, Luxembourg Radio, and the film studio. Particular attention should be paid to the National Museum, which gathers many of the exhibits including a marble bust of Septimius Severus, bronze statues of the Roman era, tombstones and fragments of medieval sculptures, the collection of minerals, exhibits of decorative and applied arts, and the beautiful paintings of German and Dutch painters.

In addition to the National Museum, the city is famous for many other museums and art galleries, such as Luxembourg City History Museum, the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Folk Life, the Museum of Weapons and Fortifications, the Museum of Ancient Musical Instruments, the Municipal Art Gallery and others.

Luxembourg is also a very beautiful city. The two rivers, Petrus and Alzeta, divide Luxembourg in two parts. In the upper town, you can see the houses built in Gothic style, the steeples and the towers against the background of cliffs. In view of this particular location, the city's 111 bridges play a special role in the architectural outlook of Luxembourg. In the center of the upper city, one can see the beautiful residence of Grand Duke. The palace with elegant turrets and a quaint faade is built in the Moorish style, in harmony with the House of the Parliament and the City Hall, built in 1830 in the best traditions of classicism. The city's main square looks even more gorgeous due to the Baroque cathedral of Notre Dame. In addition to the above mentioned monuments, the attractions of the Upper Town include the ruins of the Roman watchtower, the rock chapel of St. Kieran, the Gothic cathedral of Saint-Michel, the Palace of Justice and many others.

Luxembourg is home to various festivals and noisy celebrations. In February, there is a colorful carnival, in April one celebrates the Feast of the First Flowers, and the Catholic Octave festival. Sumptuous feasts fall on June and August, when wine festivals begin.

In the suburbs, you can see the old mill converted into an artistic workshop, the Ansemburg and Holenfels fortresses, and the thermal springs in Mondorf-les-Bains. One can take a boat walk on the river Moselle and explore its picturesque valley, visit the famous vineyards and watch spectacular boating and sailing competitions.

In addition to the capital, the northern town of Clervaux, has become a real hot spot for tourists due to its Gothic architecture and the unique impression of a medieval town.

Less than 12 miles from here is Vianden, which is considered one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities. This city is famous for the fact that Victor Hugo lived in it. The house, where he lived, has been turned into a museum that holds some things and books of the great French writer. To the east from this area, there is the so-called 'Luxembourg Switzerland' which is highly praised for its amazing nature. The landscape around the half-ruined fortress of Beaufort is especially beautiful.

The city of Echternach is one of the oldest cities in the country, and is about 1000 years old. There are many ancient buildings with fancy vaults and arches in this city. Echternach, along with the capital, is a recognized tourist destination, a place of numerous festivals and parades.