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Book Air Tickets And Get Discount Using The Internet By: mukesh kumar
Are you looking out for discounts on your air tickets? You need to make a reality check. When you have the advent of the World Wide Web, the phenomena of booking air tickets and getting discounts using internet becomes quite easy.(read entire article)(posted on: 2012-06-14)
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Everest Base Camp – What To Pack? By: msing hraity
The Mount Everest is the peak of the entire world and it is the tallest mountain on the planet acting as the greatest display of perseverance, potency and continued existence.(read entire article)(posted on: 2012-06-14)
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Port Blair - Experience Sun And Sand At Its Best By: Rashmiranjan Patil
Capital city of the archipelagos of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Port Blair is the largest town among all the towns in the 350 odd islands here. Port Blair also serves as the primary gateway to enter all islands.
During the British reign Port Blair served as a detention island for the Indian prisoners of freedom and a huge jail called the Cellular Jail was constructed where the prisoners were held in solitary confinement. Among the many interesting sightseeing options in Port Blair are the infamous Cellular Jail, Mahatma Gandhi National Marine Park, Anthropological Museum, Ross Island and Viper Island. Among the many islands nearby Viper Island is infamous for being the site of many an execution during the British rule in India and is named after a British trading ship ‘Viper' that got wrecked here. Another tiny island by the name Ross Island is famous for the ruins of a church and a cemetery and can be easily reached by boat from Port Blair. Havelock Island is the place to head to for those who would like to indulge in a variety of sports activities such as scuba diving, snorkelling and a ride on a glass-bottomed boat cruise. This island is also known for its beautiful beaches, mangrove creeks and marvelous diving sites. Few other islands nearby are Long island, Neil Island, Corbyn's Cove, Baratang Rangat, Mayabunder and Diglipur, which are known for their unspoilt beaches. Mount Harriet, the second highest peak in the region is also a popular trekking destination and is a haven for migratory and local birds. The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park at Wandoor is famous for its diverse marine life.
Port Blair becoming an increasingly popular destination boasts of a variety of hotels that offer brilliant views of the sea and the countryside. Being a small city, the number of hotels here are also limited. Among the Port Blair Hotels in the luxury range are Fortune Resort Bay Island, Sea Princess Beach Resort, Peerless Sarovar Portico, Sinclairs Bay View Hotel, TSG Emerald View and Hotel Sentinel. Among the many amenities provided by these Port Blair Hotels are room service, front desk, in-room television, bar/lounge area, multi cuisine restaurant, free parking and swimming pool.
For those who are not interested in spending a fortune on the luxury hotels can opt for the economy Port Blair Hotels such as the Driftwood Hotels, Hotel Shompen, Ripple Resort, Hotel Diviyum Manor, Coorg Niwas Homestay and Aashiana Residency Inn.
Port Blair has a well connected airport that links it to most major cities in the subcontinent. The port city is also easily accessible by ship and is a preferred mode of commute among many.(read entire article)(posted on: 2012-06-14)
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Spending Your Holiday In Bob Marley's City - Kingston By: Aleena Moore
The city offers a fantastic Caribbean holiday that you will never forget. It will allow you to experience the local culture and heritage and also enjoy the natural beauty.(read entire article)(posted on: 2012-06-14)
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Mudumalai - Forest Dwellings By: Rashmiranjan Patil
Mudumalai is located in the state of Tamil Nadu on the Tamil Nadu-Karnataka border.
Mudumalai covers an area of 320 sq km and is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere, which comprises of Bandipur National Park (874 sq km), Nagarhole National Park (643 sq km), and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (344 sq km) and forms the largest protected area in southern India, with a total area of 2183 sq km.
Mudumalai, set up in 1932, is home to tigers, elephants, leopards, sambar, giant Malabar squirrel, dholes, spotted deer, wild boar, panther, gaur and sloth bears.
The Theppakadu elephant camp has more than 30 elephants that are kept for timber logging.
There's plenty of Forest Department accommodation to suit all budgets within the Mudumalai Reserve. Outside the Mudumalai Reserve, along the fringes of the forest, a lot of private resorts have come up. Many of these resorts take care of all your safaris and adventure activities like trekking, bird watching, fishing, angling, and outdoor camping.
The Jungle Retreat is a 35 acre property and a family run resort that promises a mixture of wilderness, serenity and comfort. The tariff of the rooms comes in the range of Rs. 2000 to Rs. 2500. Blue Valley Jungle Resorts has cottages, a bungalow and rooms for accommodation, offers safaris, treks, night safaris, fishing and camping. Jungle Hut provides hut accommodation in the range Rs.1000 to Rs. 1400. Monarch Safari Park is also among the best options for Mudumalai.
Bamboo Banks Farm Guest House offers safaris, jungle treks and horse riding and the rooms come with a forest view. Mountania Rest House and Green Park Resorts also offer a variety of activities from camping and tenting to fishing. Royal Park Resort is a budget Mudumalai Hotel.
Jungle Trails is set inside the jungle. The forest department has a few good lodges that boast the best locations inside the sanctuary. Theppakadu Log House has rooms and suites. Sylvan Lodge located on the banks of Moyar River is one of the best Mudumalai Hotels.
Mudumalai is best visited during the months March and April when you have a lot of sightings, especially near the water holes and the Moyar River.
Mudumalai is well linked by road to all the major neighbouring cities like Bangalore, Mysore, Ooty and Wayanad. Mudumalai falls almost mid way on the highway connecting Mysore and Ooty. Initially the roads through the park were open during the night. Now to avoid accidents and disturbances for the animals the entry gates remain closed from 9 pm to 6 am.
State transport buses that ply between Ooty and Mysore pass through Mudumalai. The nearest rail head is Mysore, which is about 65 km away. Bangalore airport is the closest airport.(read entire article)(posted on: 2012-06-14)
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Kumarakom - For A Comfortable Holiday By: Rashmiranjan Patil
Kumarakom is a renowned backwater retreat near Kottayam in the state of Kerala. Mostly a cluster of tiny islets, Kumarakom is today a world class tourist spot visited by tourists from all over.
Dotted with tall swaying coconut palms, interspersed with waterways and enveloped in parts by dense mangroves and lush green paddy fields, Kumarakom is situated in the Vembanad Lake and is an unspoiled, picture perfect village.
Kumarakom's most unique attraction is the chain of brackish lagoons known in the local language 'Malayalam' as 'kayal'. The largest of all the lakes in the state, Vembanad Lake is spread across an area of more than 200 sq km bordered by the districts of Alappuzha, Kottayam and Ernakulam. Saturated with large houseboats called ‘kettuvallam' that are essentially country crafts spanning more than 60 feet in length that have been renewed into luxury houseboats, Vembanad is the centre of tourist activity in Kumarakom.
Kumarakom Packages include a trip to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, which is very famous among tourists who come here. This bird sanctuary is a haven for migratory and local birds. Teals, egret, darter, heron, waterfowl, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian stork are most common among those who make this sanctuary their home. It is a favourite haunt among bird watchers too who flock to this place to watch these birds in their natural habitat. This sanctuary is best explored by a slow boat ride around it which gives one the opportunity to spot birds in their natural habitat from a distance without disturbing.
A small 10 acre island in the middle of the backwaters called 'Pathiramanal' or Sands of Midnight is a welcome break for tourists after a long day's cruise and is part of many Kumarakom Packages. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls situated 18 km from Kottayam makes for an ideal picnic spot. Kumarakom Packages also includes a trip to Kottayam to visit the many churches that dot the landscape of this city. The Cheriapally famous for the beautiful paintings that adorn the altar and the Valiyapally or the big church perched atop a hillock with a remarkable view are two prominent churches here. St Mary's Church which dates back to 355 A.D. contains an ancient bell that has an undeciphered writing on it. Another important church is St Joseph's Monastery Church at Mannanam. Kottayam is also famous as the site of important temples like Ettumanoor Shiva Temple and the Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple. Aranmula, Erumely, Vagamon, Elaveezhapoonchira and Vaikom are some of the other sightseeing options in Kumarakom.
Cochin International airport is the closest airport to Kumarakom that is situated approximately 85 km away, whereas the nearby city of Kottayam has the nearest railway station.(read entire article)(posted on: 2012-06-14)
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Kovalam - A Blend Of Tradition And Exotic By: Rashmiranjan Patil
Kovalam is a beautiful beach destination famous around the world for its golden sandy beaches and exotic ambience. Situated near the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram Kovalam came into prominence as a beach destination in the early 1930s. A beach resort called Halcyon Castle was established by Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bayi, whose nephew the Maharaja of Travancore made the location most famous among his elite class of friends who were mostly westerners. It was following this that the area began being thronged by Europeans who loved the combination of sea, sand and sun, just what Kovalam offers and that too in a traditional heritage package.
Kovalam is famous for its four golden beaches, Samudra Beach, Kovalam Beach, Hawah Beach and the Lighthouse Beach. The Lighthouse Beach is among the most famous one and is situated in the southern extreme of Kovalam and gets its name from the Vizhinjam Lighthouse that is built on a rocky headland nearby. The beach here is a long sandy strip of land with soft golden sand and is most crowded during sunset. Hawa beach is also known as Eve's Beach and is a secluded strip of land that is known for its tranquility. The Edakallu foreland separates Hawah Beach from Kovalam Beach, which is mostly haunted by those who are keen to indulge in water sports. The Samudra Beach is another exotic beach here with the sandy shores lined with rows of fishing boats and ships visible on the far horizon.
Other prominent places of interest in and around Kovalam are the Karamana River and Boating, Vellayani Lake, Valiyathura Pier, Kovalam Art Gallery, Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple, Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple, Aruvikkara Dam, Varkala also called Papanasam Beach and Kanyakumari.
Kovalam is internationally famous as a beach destination for a very long time and another aspect of Kovalam that has always attracted the westerners and the rich and affluent are the exotic resorts in this beach town. Kovalam Hotels are a perfect blend of luxury and tradition where the guests are treated to all modern facilities albeit with a traditional twist. The most popular luxury hotels here are Vivanta by Taj, Leela Kovalam Beach, Turtle on The Beach and Kovalam Ashok Beach Resort, which are five star hotels and resorts. These hotels all possible amenities one could need such as luxurious rooms with breathtaking views and attached bath with hot and cold water, cable television and phone, kitchenette, lounge bars, infinity swimming pool, kids activity centre, fitness centre, business centre and several others. Kovalam Hotels also offer budget accommodation in places such as Marine Palace, Bakers Home Stay, Harmonia Ayurveda Health Garden, Sea Rock, Sherley, The View Heights and Travancore Palace Beach Resort.(read entire article)(posted on: 2012-06-14)
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Kochi - Experience Something New By: Rashmiranjan Patil
The seaside town of Kochi is situated in the state of Kerala along the west coast of the Arabian Sea. The second largest city and the largest urban agglomerate in the state, Kochi has been a preferred trading destination among the Arabs, British, Chinese, Dutch, and Portuguese traders since time immemorial. The city of Kochi is dotted with beautiful European churches, colossal forts, spectacular beaches and magnificent palaces which are reminiscent of the times when it was occupied by foreign rulers. Honoured with the sobriquet 'Queen of the Arabian Sea', the city of Kochi was also a prominent spice trading centre during the 14th century and was in fact first of the European colonies in India, having been occupied by the Portuguese.
Among the many tourist attractions included in the numerous Kochi Packages, perhaps one of the most prominent and popular are the Chinese Fishing Nets or Cheenavala that dot the coastline from Fort Kochi to Vypeen. These huge Chinese nets are almost synonymous with Kochi and are among one of the most visited attractions in the city. Kochi Packages also include a must visit trip to the Fort Kochi Beach, which is perfect for a relaxing sunset stroll. Fort Kochi has a very different feel to itself very unlike the rest of the city. Fort Kochi is dominated by narrow lanes that are dotted with numerous European style bungalows, most of which have been converted into restaurants or hotels and tiny curio shops selling interesting looking amulets, pendants, and other jewellery pieces at not so cheap rates. Right on the beach, are a number of tiny eateries that serve freshly caught fish cooked in typical spicy Kerala style.
Kochi Packages include a trip to the prominent churches and religious centres in the city, among which the most famous is St Francis Church that is said to be the oldest church built by Europeans in India and is also famous as the burial site of Vasco da Gama. Santa Cruz Basilica built in 1505 by the Portuguese is another ancient church here that was destroyed by the British. Another important religious attraction is the Jewish Synagogue built in 1568.
A number of palaces and other historical structures are also part of several Kochi Packages. The Dutch Palace in Mattancherry which was built by the Portuguese and later gifted to the Kochi king, Hill Palace built by the Raja of Kochi, which is now a museum with a fine collection of articles belonging to the kings and the oldest surviving European fort in India and the Pallipuram Fort built by the Portuguese in 1503 are the prominent historical structures in Kochi.(read entire article)(posted on: 2012-06-14)
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Luxury Holiday In Northumberland Cottages By: Emma Crabtree
Luxury Holiday in Northumberland Cottages is one of the best ideas to have a relaxing holiday. It is really a wonderful idea to enjoy your life to the fullest and to get rid of all your worries for the time you are relaxing there.(read entire article)(posted on: 2012-06-14)
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Kochi - Living Like A Queen By: Rashmiranjan Patil
Kochi, earlier known as Cochin, is a port city located along the coast of the Arabian Sea in the state of Kerala.
Fort Kochi and the Cherai beaches are worth visiting. A ferry ride around the islands of Willingdon, Bolghatty and the popular Marine Drive is a must.
The other major attractions in Kochi are St. Francis Church which is the first and oldest European church in India, Chinese Fishing Nets which are believed to be introduced by the Chinese explorer Zheng He, Mattanchery Palace, Hill Palace Museum, Museum of Kerala History, Pareekshith Thampuran Museum, Indo-Portuguese Museum, Indian Naval Maritime Museum, Santa Cruz Basilica and Pierce Leslie Bungalow among others.
All types of accommodation, heritage, luxury, mid-range and budget, are available in Kochi. Kochi hotels costs more during the holiday season which is from October to April. The room rates of the hotels increase about 50% than the off season tariff.
Kochi has a plethora of charming heritage hotels that have all the five star amenities. Malabar House holds the distinction of being Kochi's first heritage hotel. This Kochi Hotel offers 17 luxurious rooms and suites, an ayurvedic spa, fine-dining restaurant and lounges. The rooms are in the range of Rs. 20,000 to 30,000 in the peak season.
Neemrana's Le Colonial is a 16th century building and has retained some of the original structures. The rooms here cost around Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 24,000. The 19th century Brunton Boatyard is a luxurious Kochi Hotel on the harbour.
The Old Harbour Hotel is a 300 year old building and had been redesigned to accommodate 13 plush rooms ranging around Rs. 8000 to Rs. 15,000. The Poovath Heritage is a 100-year old Dutch building and all the rooms promise an Arabian Sea view. Previously belonging to the Brooke Bond Tea Company, the Tea Bungalow has 10 beautifully furnished rooms.
Kochi is also home to popular chain hotels like the Taj Malabar, Le Meridien, Vivanta, and the Ramada Resort.
Kochi has its own share of home stays. The last couple of years has seen a rapid proliferation of home stays where every second family opening their bungalows to tourists. Secret Garden is a 70 year old mansion and has four colonial styled rooms. Oy's La Home Stay, Bernard's Bungalow, Walton's Home Stay, and Seaside Manor are few of the other home stays. These Kochi Hotels are priced Rs 2000 upwards for an a/c room, and breakfast inclusive.
Kochi Hotels also include several budget hotels that include many basic amenities at one-fifth the rates of these luxury hotels. Some of the budget hotels here are Wintergreen Waterfront Hotel, Hotel Hill Palace, Dwaraka Hotel, Abad Plaza, BTH Sarovaram, Orchid Hotel, Avenue Regent and several others.(read entire article)(posted on: 2012-06-14)
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