Grece - Atina Travel

The Magic city of Athens, which is the world's history is full of the gods, and worshiped by the people is a city that hosts the wonderful memories. The fascinating capital of Greece, known as the birthplace of civilization. Also referred to as the first establishment of democracy in Athens city.The most important prehistoric civilizations developed, and the history of humanity on behalf of Athens from the very successful so far has revealed the architectural masterpieces.The most important example of this is the Acropolis of Athens, the world-recognized and known. This is the reputation of history's most famous archaeological site, has won the admiration of millions of people travel the world. The world's seven wonders of the Acropolis is nominated.Construction of the 5th century before Christ Holy Rock of Acropolis, the famous golden age lies Periklis'in. Alıcılığının grandeur and outside the eye, on this place, the most beautiful squares are full of many different ages, until the period of decline, but still manages to shed light on the future of Athens to shine under the scheme. Pendelikon for its white marble of the Acropolis still shines.Dedicated to the goddess Athena, who named the city of victory, and today remains the most important building of the Acropolis, the Parthenon flashy make up what's in the holy places, others Erectheion and Athena Nike temples.The Monastiraki district of the city center during the Ottoman period, formed due to the small and cute, the name of the Church among the people almıştır.Türk Pantanassa procedure known as a small bazaar in Bitola, Fethiye and Tzastrakis mosques, bearing the traces of the period to which the neighborhood of the city under Ottoman rule, chic shopping and Ermou Street is the life of cafes in the city's most popular pedestrian routes within the host.Athens is a city with many different aspects. Famous historic triangle (Plaka, Thission, Psyri) that have a combination of how a ride feels different ages. Some of the very old and worn, some well-preserved mansions worth seeing. Luxury shops, quaint little shops, fancy restaurants and traditional taverns that's all city.The heart of Athens' Syntagma Square, where the parliament and the ministries assigns. The square of the city where the most important intersection, the Unknown Soldier in front of the parliament building is worth seeing Anıtı'ndaki changing of the guard.Might be called the historic city center of Athens, the Plaka district, the structure to contain very little history, reaching back even though the Ottoman Empire, saw the oldest continuously inhabited city region. With antiques and taverns, as tourists flocked to the Athenians in the narrow streets of Plaka and the garden to be able to preserve the air of a small neighborhood in the quiet of their homes is remarkable.

Trips outside the tourist attractions of this center in the Monastiraki, Kolonaki, Lycabettus Hill, the historic center, near the Faliro, Glyfada, Voula and Vouliagmeni enjoy the sea breeze. Also in the north Marousi, Melissia, Vrilissia and Kifisia also among the places to visit.In the most important archeological site in Athens is a must visit places in areas. Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Olymbion, Roman Market, the Athenian Stadium - Kallimarmaro, they are major temple of Poseidon in Sounio.Neoclassical buildings of the period, the real pride of Athens, the Greek Parliament sources, the Academy of Athens and other places to be seen at the University of Athens.Museums to exhibit the treasures of cultural heritage that is also the Archaeological Museum, Byzantine Museum, War Museum and also missed.Ancient AgoraBC From around 600 daily and political life of Athens, the Agora, the heart of the city council, where democratic decisions, citizens gathered and commercial, political and artistic activities, a center performs. Ancient Agora, the number of structures that could reach as strong today may surprise you.The National Archaeological MuseumThe museum, opened in 1891, almost every period of ancient Greek civilization, brings together rare works. During the Second World War, a priceless collection of the museum, preserved in the soil buried bombardment. In 1946 the museum opened its doors again enriched by every passing day, new excavations in the collection, is particularly interesting section of the exhibition of works of Mycenae.

New Zealand health retreat

At the risk of offending my fiancé, my hour of Watsu therapy was (almost) better than sex.

Watsu what, I hear you say? That’s what I wondered, soon after arriving at this sustainable lifestyle acreage with its orchard, vegie garden, chooks and big “Welcome Sarah” sign. Hosts Bill and Marilyn duly explained; a gentle warm-water body therapy that combines massage, shiatsu, joint mobilisation and stretching, enabling pain relief and body strengthening, awaited me.

Freshly showered, I’m ushered into the solar-heated indoor pool. I float on my back as Marilyn, using her body weight, bends my body in a rhythmical, dance-like flow, cradling and stretching me. I’m a weightless whirlpool in human form.

As my body relaxes gradually and deeply, I let go. The inner monologue disappears from my mind, as does the stiffness from my muscles. For once, I feel truly in my body, entirely well, whole, and beautiful. I sit on the poolsteps, eyes closed, for 10 minutes before I can bear to speak.

After lunch, there’s more Watsu and massage in the outdoor spa with its massaging jets. A sauna banishes all my toxins, judging by the startling volume of sweat. Come evening, I join Bill and Marilyn for a homegrown, home-cooked meal before disappearing into the adjoining rammed-earth apartment with its own bathroom, kitchenette and lounge. You can be as private or as separate as you want here. The flat sleeps three, there’s a couples’ “Gardener’s Retreat” off the barn, plus a roomy cabin sleeps eight at the narrow property’s ocean end.

Something changes in me at Tikapa Moana. I already know life is a treasure to savour rather than a test to pass, but here I see this philosophy in action and resolve to make it my own. Bill and Marilyn’s lifestyle is inspiring and simple, and it’s not a slog. Rather, it’s a reminder that how I spend my days is how I’ll spend my life.

Travelers can go off the beaten bath in Cambodia

There are many glorious things to behold in Cambodia and many exciting activities to become involved in. However, many of these popular sites and expeditions - for example, a hike to Angor Wat - have become very touristy destinations that all visitors to Cambodia end up seeing. For the true adventure traveler, much more lies hidden off the beaten path in this mysterious Asian country.

A great place for individuals who are interested in adventure travel to explore is Siem Reap. This area is known for having the friendliest locals and the most beautiful and enchanting temples that one may ever set their eyes on. The countryside and tropical jungle surrounding this area is very clean and appears to be relatively untouched by pollution and modernization efforts.

Also in Cambodia is the Krong Koh Kong province. This region is located on the Thai border and is quickly becoming a popular destination for ecotourism. Adventure travelers can still sneak in and experience its pristine mangrove forests and hike the Cardamom Mountains before it gets too crowded, however.
Going off the beaten path on vacation is best done with a small group of energetic and excited adventure travelers.

7 top spots in New Zealand

The Champagne Lake

New Zealand is famous for its hot springs. While some have been developed into resorts, others remain untouched. The Champagne Lake at Wai-O-Tapu, Rotorua, on the northern island derives its name from the size of its bubbles. The colours, ranging from turquoise to orange, are due to the mineral salts in the water, which include gold, silver and arsenic.

Milford Sound

Dubbed the eighth wonder of the world by Rudyard Kipling, Milford Sound is a stunning fiord on the southern island. Thanks to heavy rainfall (it averages 182 days of rain a year, and a mean annual rainfall of almost 7 metres), it boasts magical waterfalls of over 1200m and rain-forest adorned cliff faces. The sea below is inhabited by penguins, seals, dolphins, and occasionally whales. You can explore by kayak, cruise ship or hiking.

Queenstown

Queenstown is a hot spot for adventure sports including skiing, snowboarding, paragliding and bungy jumping. Its picturesque slopes overlooking Lake Wakatipu attract tourists from all over the world, especially during winter. If you’re not a skier, Queenstown also has a reputation for great nightlife and provided the breathtaking scenery for Lord of the Rings.

Maori culture and the Tamaki Maori Village

The Maori culture is very much alive, from the traditional place names and greeting of ‘kia ora’, to the haka and various other Maori art forms. Tamaki Maori Village in Roturua forest offers visitors the chance to experience an authentic Maori village. You can also learn a lot about New Zealand’s Maori heritage from its museums and art galleries.

Waiheke Island

Just 35 minutes from Auckland by ferry, Waiheke Island is a peaceful escape, featuring beaches, forests, farmland, vineyards and olive groves. With such beautiful surroundings, there’s a wealth of things to do – nature walks, winery tours, kayaking... take your pick!

Wairarapa 

An hour’s drive from Wellington, the Wairarapa region is one of New Zealand’s best destinations for wining and dining. The central boutique town of Martinborough has more than 36 wineries, which are best explored by bike or on foot.

Christchurch

The devastating earthquake that shook Christchurch in February 2011 was one of the most intense the world has seen. Although the city is still feeling the aftershocks – both physical and social – Christchurch still has a lot to offer tourists. Known as the ‘Garden City’ for its numerous parks and gardens, Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s prettiest cities. Its English origins are evident in the historic trams and Gothic architecture.

Bhutan: Land of the Thunder Dragon

Sample Itinerary

DAY 1 : PARO / THIMPU

TAJ TASHI
Arrive Paro on your Druk Air flight from Bangkok, Delhi or Katmandu. Drive through the lesser Himalayas to Thimpu, Bhutan’s secluded capital. The splendid valley is dominated by Tashichho Dzong (ancient fortress/monastery), where the king and the Je Khenpu (supreme religious leader) rule side-by-side to ensure their people’s secular and spiritual well being. In Bhutan, they speak of “Gross National Happiness.” (L,D)

DAY 2 : THIMPU / WANGDUE PHODRANG

DRAGON NEST HOTEL
Drive through pine forests and small villages as you cross Dochu La Pass at 10,500 ft. Visit beautiful Punakha Dzong, the winter residence of the chief abbot. Continue to Wangdue Phodrang, the last town on the highway before entering Central Bhutan. This formidable dzong is the town’s most visible and dramatic feature. (B,L,D)

DAY 3 : WANGDUE PHODRANG / TRONGSA

YANGKHIL RESORT
The road from Wangdue to Trongsa is one of the prettiest in Bhutan, passing streams, forests and villages. Transit the Pelela Pass and descend into the Gangteng Valley, the winter home of Tibet’s black-necked cranes. Visit Gantey Gompa, an important 17th-century monastery. As you near Trongsa, the dramatic circuit around the valley provides an exciting view of the dzong and the town. Trongsa Dzong is an impregnable fortress, a labyrinth of temples, corridors and monastic quarters. (B,L,D)

DAYS 4-6 : BUMTHANG

GONGKHAR GUEST HOUSE
Continue east across the Yutongla Pass (11,500 ft.) into Bumthang, home to the great Buddhist teacher Pema Lingpa and a deeply spiritual region. Explore Bumthang’s four valleys visiting Jampa & Kurjey Monasteries and Burning Lake. Travel to the charming Ura Valley where the small but old dzong and cobblestone paths give the village a medieval feel. Bumthang’s tsechus (festivals) are some of the most popular in Bhutan. Rare masked and sword dances are performed in the courtyards of the dzongs. (BLD)

DAYS 7-8 : WANGDUE PHODRANG & THIMPU

TAJ TASHI
Spend two days returning to Thimpu. (B,L,D)

DAYS 9-11 : PARO

UMA PARO
Thirty years ago, the only access to Paro was by a five day walk across mountains from the Indian border. Today, it is your base of exploration for a wealth of attractions. Walk (or ride) to Taktsang, the Tiger’s Nest. This magical monastery, an icon of Bhutan, clings to a granite cliff 3,000 ft. above the valley floor. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche, who first brought Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century, flew here on the back of a flying tigress. Visit the National Museum (Ta Dzong) housed in an ancient watchtower, then explore the Paro’s impressive Rinpung Dzong, one of the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture. Drive to the remote Haa Valley (12,000 ft.), and if you wish, descend the 25 miles by mountain bike! (B,L,D)

DAY 12 : DEPART PARO

EN ROUTE
Morning departure on your Druk Air flight. Bon Voyage! (B)

Spice it up in Kampot

Historically known for its pepper, Kampot's offerings spice up more than food on travels through Cambodia.
The serene town of Kampot is a pretty place worth a few days of exploration. While no sites are worth singling out, streets in Kampot are well-kept and encompass a range of architectural styles.

Natural structures are also worth seeing in the Kampot area, which includes a variety of caves. Phnom Chhnork is one of the most interesting. Here, guests can spelunk into the caves to uncover a seventh-century temple built inside. In a remarkable testament to the powers of nature, stalagmites and stalactites are slowly growing in, on and around the temple, "devouring" it with their limestone growths.

The favorite crop of the region is worth a try, and travelers who time their visit between September and April will often be able to get just-harvested supplies. While many fields of the crop were eliminated by the Khmer Rouge, small-scale farmers today sell and produce green, red, white and black pepper. Bird pepper, said to have aphrodisiac powers when ingested, is offered only occasionally, as its process - pepper that has been eaten and expelled by birds - is not practiced often enough to warrant large supplies. 

Classic Cambodia in Kampong Cham

Although Cambodia has undergone many periods of renovation in recent history, those looking for a spot to explore the country's dynamic culture should head to the city of Kampong Cham.

While Kampong Cham is Cambodia's third-largest city, it has expertly retained its more rural feel. The bridge built to the nearby island of Kuhn Paen, for example, is rebuilt by hand with bamboo every year following the rainy season. While exploring the city, travelers will pass by many ancient wats, fields of crops, and the small fishing boats of locals.

Kampong Cham, while it has preserved many of its relic structures, has also found new ways to reuse them as well. Found inside an 11th century Mahayana Buddhist shrine, the Wat Nokor is today a Theravada Buddhist pagoda. Although new structures have been added to the wat's interior, many of the original archways are incorporated into the modern designs, making this a true piece of spiritual fusion.

To refuel, guests can satisfy their appetite for authentic cuisine at many of the silted restaurants found along the Mekong River. Many eateries here also feature live music, although some restaurants have modernized to include karaoke offerings instead. Those looking for a classic Kompong Cham dinner experience should head to Hao An restaurant, a local favorite that has been dishing up yummy plates of Khmer and Chinese entrees for many years.