Most Popular Tourist Places in France

France is the world’s most popular tourist attractions France, a country with world-beating art and architecture. It is home to the Europe’s popular landmark the vertiginous Eiffel Tower. The Musee d’Orsay is home to impressionist and post-impressionist art while the Louvre Museum is home to several masterpieces, including the ‘Mona Lisa’, ‘Aphrodite’, ‘Liberty leading the people’, etc. Visit the fairyland destination of Mont Saint-Michel or learn about the volcanic eruptions at Vulcania.

Palace of Versailles

One of the best known tourist attractions in France, few places better showcase the opulence and grandeur of the French monarchy better than the Palace of Versailles. There’s a huge amount to see here, from stunning architecture to fabulous furniture, art and antiques and of course the magnificent gardens. Audio headsets are available as are guided tours probably a good idea given the sheer scale of the place.

Louvre Museum

the former royal palace of French Kings, the Louvre is an incomparable museum that ranks among the top European collections of fine arts. Many of Western Civilization's most famous works are found here including the Mona Lisa by Leonardo DaVinci, the Wedding Feast at Cana by Veronese, and the 1st-century-BC Venus de Milo sculpture. The collection owes its wealth to the contributions of various kings who lived in the Louvre.

Loire Valley Châteaux

Traveling through the Loire Valley feels like turning the pages of a children's storybook. Throughout the enchanting countryside of woodlands and river valleys are fairy-tale castles complete with moats and turreted towers. The entire area of the Loire Valley, a lush area known as the "Garden of France," is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Chartres Cathedral

Chartres Cathedral, devoted to the Virgin Mary is one of the most beautiful churches in the world. It was inaugurated in 1260 and has been well preserved till today. The church has been a major pilgrimage tourist destination since the Early Middle Ages. Chartres Cathedral is highly praised for its sculpture, much celebrated stained glass as well as its high gothic style.

Musee d’Orsay

The Musee d’Orsay exhibiting the world’s famous art is constructed upon the site of the former Gare d’Orsay railway station. The museum is home to the world’s biggest collection of impressionist and post-impressionist art. The exhibits at the museum are broadly categorized under six heads: Painting collection, Sculpture collection, Objects d’art collection, Photographic collection, Graphic arts collection, and Architecture.

Funny Facts About on South Africa

South Africa, Africa's southernmost nation, is also Africa's largest and most developed economy. Diamond and gold strikes in the late 19th century began transforming this land of African tribespeople, Boer farmers, and British traders into an industrial colossus. Today South Africa produces high tech equipment and is a world leader in the output of gold and diamonds. On South Africa's high grassland plateau, or veld, lies its premier city, Johannesburg (usually shortened to Jo'burg). Johannesburg and its satellite cities are home to more than 8 million people generating 9 percent of all economic activity in Africa.

South Africa is one of the most diverse and enchanting countries in the world. Exotic combinations of landscapes, people, history and african culture offer the traveller a unique and inspiring experience. Here are the quick facts to get you started.South Africa is located on the southern tip of the African continent, bordered by northern neighbours Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. It encompasses the independent mountain kingdoms of Lesotho and Swaziland and is flanked by the Atlantic Ocean on the west and the warm Indian Ocean on the east giving the country its spectacular range of biodiversity.      

Geography

South Africa, on the continent's southern tip, is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the west and by the Indian Ocean on the south and east. Its neighbors are Namibia in the northwest, Zimbabwe and Botswana in the north, and Mozambique and Swaziland in the northeast. The kingdom of Lesotho forms an enclave within the southeast part of South Africa, which occupies an area nearly three times that of California.The southernmost point of Africa is Cape Agulhas, located in the Western Cape Province about 100 mi (161 km) southeast of the Cape of Good Hope.

Economy

Economy A lesser known fact on South Africa Tribes is that it has achieved steady economic growth in gross domestic product (GDP) since the late 90s. The country, regarded as an emerging market, has a well developed financial sector and active stock exchange. Financial policies have focused on building solid macroeconomic structures. The country’s central bank is the Reserve Bank.

Tourism

Tourism Since the demise of apartheid, international tourist arrivals have surged, making tourism one of the fastest growing sectors. The tourism industry is well-established with an exciting sector of emerging entrepreneurs. The country is strong on adventure, sport, nature and wildlife travel and is a pioneer and global leader in responsible tourism.

Education

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is a pioneer of tertiary distance education and is the largest correspondence university in the world, with 250,000 students. South Africa’s matric pass rate has improved from 49% in 1994 to 70% in 2004, but students receiving university exemptions have remained at 18%.
The first MBA program outside of the US was started by the University of Pretoria in 1949.

National Symbols

National Symbols of South Africa is a multi-lingual country and there are 11 official languages including: English, Afrikaans, isiNdebele, isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sepedi, Sesotho, Setswana, Siswati, Tshivenda and Xitsonga. Composed by Enoch Sontonga in 1899, the Xhosa hymn 'Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika is South Africa's national anthem.

Top 5 Most Popular Fort of India

India is known for its historical grandeur which still subsists in forts and palaces across the country.ndia is a land of ancient forts and monuments,which describe its deep manifested past. Two forts in India are UNESCO world heritage sites the Agra fort and the Red fort. Forts and Palaces of India are the country’s treasured,present the magnamity of the Royal Kingdoms of India. Types of Ancient Indian Forts are Jal durg,Giri durg and Vana durg. Qila Mubarak a historical monument in Bathinda is the oldest surviving fort in India.

History has its pages written in the Forts of India. Forts of Indian present the magnamity of the Royal Kingdoms which India used to have. Today these stand as a reminder of the past and the Grandeur it had.There are a number of famous forts in India,while Rajasthan has the most number of forts, Some of the major forts of India are Hari Parbat Fort, Rohtasgarh Fort, Bekal Fort and Uparkot Fort.          

Jaisalmer Fort

One of the finest and well-maintained forts in India is the Jaisalmer Fort in Thar Desert in the State of Rajasthan. We can say that Rajasthan is the fort capital of India, if we look at the total number of forts in the country. The forts of Rajasthan are in very good condition and are the prime tourist locations for people visiting India and Rajasthan. The massive yellow sandstone structure is tawny lion color during the day and turns honey-gold as the sun sets. This transition of color camouflages the fort making it appear a part of the great That desert which is why it is also known as the Golden Fort.

Chittaurgarh Fort

Chittaurgarh Fort is the largest fort of India and the grandest in the state of Rajasthan. It is situated on the left bank of the Berach river. It is also called as Water Fort, The fort had 84 water bodies inside, out of which only about 22 exist today. This living testimony represent the bravery of Maharana Pratap Singh and the great Rajput rulers of Rajasthan.

Red Fort

One would usually not think of the Delhi based Red Fort as one the fort and famous destinations, but its significance in history and the current status of one the sight-seeing spots in the capital, ensures that it makes the cut. The fort is also known as Lal Qila and is situated in the heart of the old city, overlooking the charmingly chaotic streets of Delhi with rickshaws, busy shoppers at Chandi Chowk and the largest bird hospital of Asia.

Golconda fort

The famous Golconda fort located at Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, built by Kakatiya kings. The heritage monument is known for its rich history and a majestic and imposing grand structure. Golkonda was once renowned for the Magnificent diamonds found on the south-east at Kollur Mine near Kollur lake. The awesome Golconda Fort is famous for its military architecture and One of the most wonderful monuments in India.

Agra Fort

Built during the reign of Emperor Akbar the Great, Agra Fort is considered the most important fort in the whole of India. Although the history of Agra goes back 2,500 years, it wasn’t until the famous Mughal ruler came to power, that Agra became a city of great importance.

Top Most Valentine's Day Resorts in Rome

Valentine's Day Resorts, Rome proves to be one of the most favorite destination in Italy. So why not spend this romantic day in an unusual, original, charming way! Let’s start our Valentine's Day Resorts tour from RomanticaMente Festival at the Auditorium Parco della Musica, where you can enjoy a cultural journey on critical historical nature of feelings.

Cuisine too will be the star of this original Festival through its Love Menu by the Masterchef Spyros Theoridis. You can avail of this opportunity to visit this beautiful modern building made by one of the world's greatest contemporary architects, Renzo Piano, designer of this temple of the contemporary culture of the city of Rome. You can take advantage of guided tours or simply visit to the Auditorium Arte’s temporary exhibitions.most enamored couples may want to take advantage of a little alone time. If you are Looking for that special place to celebrate Valentine’s Day Resorts this year then go to the holy and romantic region of rome.

Medici Hotel & Resort

The Sheraton Golf Parco de' Medici Hotel & Resort is located in the most vital financial and commercial area of the Capital, at the centre of a strategic point that includes the congress and business district of EUR, the New Roman Trade Fair, Fiumicino and Ciampino International Airports, while the city centre and the most important shopping centres are just a few kilometres away.Sheraton Golf Rome Luxury Hotel offers a welcoming connection with comfort, pleasure and relaxation, whether you are on a business trip or on vacation.

UNA Hotel Roma

UNA Hotel Roma is located in the heart of the capital, near the Fori Romani, the Colosseum and at walking distance from Termini Train Station. The 4 star hotel’s architectural style takes inspiration from the Art Deco, and the terrace at the top of the sixth floor offers a splendid view over the roofs of Rome, the Vatican, and the Santa Maria Maggiore Cathedral. UNA Hotel Roma is an ideal structure for businessmen and for those who want to visit the city.

Millennium Hotels and Resorts

Celebrate this Valentine's Day at a Millennium Hotels and Resorts location in the US. We'll take care of the details while you focus on your love. Whether you want Eskimo kissing in Anchorage, fireside snuggling in Boston, shopping with your honey in Chicago or soaking up some sun in Scottsdale - there's a romantic spot waiting for you across America.

Pocono Palace Resort

Pocono Palace Resort is close to Shawnee Gallery, Shawnee Mountain Ski Area, and Terra Greens Golf Club. Additional area attractions include Great Bear Golf Club and East Stroudsburg University.All inclusive and room-only rates are available at this resort. All-inclusive rates include meals and beverages at onsite restaurants. Charges may apply for dining at some restaurants, special dinners and dishes, some beverages, and other amenities.

The Great French Traditions For Valentine’s Day

As you get to know French Traditions culture better, you might wonder what the customs and history of French Traditions Valentine's Day are. Actually, you might be surprised to find out that Valentine's Day might possibly have started in France.Valentine’s Day is, for many people, the most romantic day of the year, a time at which couples all over the world celebrate the wonder of love by collectively spending millions of dollars, euros, pounds and other currencies on Valentine’s gifts. Many countries have their own particular traditions and customs on February 14 and here’s a selection.

The French Traditions like to think of themselves as the most romantic people in the world.the French have taken to their love for their own cuisine; restaurants famously do a roaring trade on February 14, a day also considered the best time for a marriage proposal.It’s been said that the first Valentine’s Day card originated in France when Charles, Duke of Orleans, sent love letters to his life while imprisoned in the Tower of London in 1415. Today, Valentine’s Day cards remain a popular tradition in France and around the world.

The origin of the Valentine’s Day is believed to have a strong connection with France. All over France and England, there was a popular notion that the members of the avian species start the process of mating around the middle of the second month of the year. It was for this very reason that lovers all over the region started exchanging romantic notes around this time, as they began to consider it as an auspicious period.

History of Valentine's Day in France

History of Valentine's Day Festival has a strong association with France. It is said that during the Middle Ages, there was a popular belief in France and England that birds began to mate halfway through the second month of the year. For this reason lovers saw the day special and considered it auspicious to exchange love letters and tokens of love on Valentine's Day. During fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, French Traditions and English poets and litterateurs too stressed on this idea and created a romantic image of the day in the minds of the people.Valentine's Day Cards too are said to have originated in France.

Valentine's Day Traditions in France

A French Traditions Valentine's Day custom that is now illegal is the "une loterie d'amour," which was eventually banned by the French government because its practice got too uncontrollable.During "une loterie d'amour," single men and women would enter houses that faced opposite each other and call to one another until they had paired off. If a man was not particularly happy with his chosen partner, he would simply leave the undesirable match for another woman.

Today, the French Traditions celebrate Valentine's Day like people in many other countries by exchanging cards, small gifts, and words of affection. Fresh flowers are also a popular item to send or receive on this holiday guide.It is said that the first modern Valentine's Day card was sent by a Frenchmen. Supposedly, Charles the Duke of Orleans sent the first modern Valentine's Day card, along with poems and other love letters, to his wife from his cell in the Tower of London after being captured by the British at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415.

Cultural Beliefs of The Afar African Tribe

The Cultural Beliefs Afar people inhabit the Horn of Africa Tribe are and are concentrated in Ethiopia and areas of Eritrea, Djibouti, and Somalia. They are a nomadic people who eke out a living in a rocky, arid enviroment. They also inhabit the Awash Valley and the forests of northern Djibouti. The popuulation totals about 3 million people. They speak Afar. Their lives are built around the livestock they heard, goats, camels, and sometimes cattle. Religion also plays an important part of their lives.

Most Afars converted to Islam (10th century). There are also a few Christians. Afar clothing is an interesting blend of Arab and African people influences. The women perhaps reflecting the prevalence of Islam traditionally wear head scarves, but go bare breasted.                                                                                

History The ancestors of the Afar Cultural Beliefs of  settled farm land in the Ethiopian highlands some time before AD 1000 and primarily raised livestock. Some time after this they began a gradual transition to a more nomadic lifestyle and moved to the area they currently occupy. Since then they have been involved in many conflicts with bordering african tribes and peoples.

Most of the Afar are nomads who herd sheep, goats, cattle, and camels. A man's wealth is measured by the size of his herds. Not all of the Afar are herdsmen. Many of those who work in the Danakil Depression pry loose slabs of solid salt during the dry season, supplying ready-to-use salt in the form of crude blocks. Some of them live in apartment buildings in the country's capitol city, Addis Ababa. They remain there year round and work in government jobs such as the Afar broadcasts of the Ethiopian radio station.

Early in their history, the Afar were heavily influenced by the Islamic religion; and today, Islam is still held in great esteem. The people do not eat pork and rarely drink alcohol. Those who can afford to do so, make a pilgrimage to Mecca. In addition, many pre-Islamic cultural beliefs and customs are also prevalent among the Afar. They believe that certain trees and groves have sacred powers. They also have various religious rites such as anointing their bodies with ghee (a type of butter). Spirits of the dead are believed to be very powerful, and a "feast of the dead," called Rabena, is celebrated each year. They also give annual offerings to the sea to ensure safety for their villages. Many people wear protective leather amulets that contain herbs and verses from the Koran.

Religious Beliefs Due to the Islamic influence on their culture, most culture of the Afar people are practicing Sunni Muslims, although this cultural belief system is also influenced by an ancient, pre-Islamic religion of worshipping a sky god called Wak. Even with these strong ancient Cushitic religious influences, Afars don't eat pork, drink little alcohol and those who can afford to make a pilgrimage to Mecca.

The Afar Circumcision practice circumcision for both males and females. To circumcise the women, they sew together the vulva, which is also practised by some Bantu and other Cushites. Boys are circumcised during their coming of age when they become men.

Trinidad And Tobago Winter Carnival 2015

One of the most significant and beautiful carnivals of the Caribbean is definitely the annual carnival of Trinidad. The preparations start long before the carnival's start. The carnival is a happy folklore event, but beside, it is a competitive event. Various groups compete on the first place in various categories like; the queen of the carnival 2015, the Calypsos and Soca queens and kings.

Enjoy the pulsating rhythms of the Steelpan at Panorama; the Calypso Monarch and King & Queen Costumes during Dimanche Gras; Soca Monarch and Groovy Soca Monarch on Fantastic Friday; J’Ouvert and the Blue Devils; Playing Mas; Carnival 2015 Road March and Fetes galore.    

               
Carnival season is party season, and in Trinidad it begins many months in advance. There are mas band launches, large fêtes, and calypso tents where contenders for the Calypso Monarch crown perform nightly. No carnival would be complete without the various competitions that highlight the thought, skill and creativity on which each component of the festival is based. After weeks of intense preparation, steelbands deliver their best interpretations of leading party tunes and custom-made pan songs at the Panorama finals.

Carnival 2015 Dates Trinidad and Tobago's Winter annual Carnival festival the biggest and best in the Caribbean, and one of the top public celebrations in the world varies from year to year depending upon the Lenten calendar. Here are the 2015-2020 dates for Trinidad's and Tobago's Winter Carnival 2015 or at least Carnival Monday and Tuesday, the "official" celebration days, although the party always starts at least the previous Friday. 2015: Feb. 16-17.

The purpose of this group is to meet other people who have a similar interest in checking out Trinidad's Carnival 2015.  The summer is quickly approaching and reservations need to be made.  The cost of everything increases, and the availability of costumes and accomodations decreases the closer we get to the end of the year.If you've heard about it from someone who actually went, it's sooooo much fun…So maybe this is YOUR year to go! Let's meetup and see if we can assist each other in the preparation.

The J'Ouvert revelry clears and massive costumed bands of "Pretty Mas" players flood the street with riotous colour. A cast of thousands take to the street "jumping up" and "wining" (gyrating of the hips) to the sound of soca blaring from speakers piled on music trucks. The excitement is at fever pitch, but Carnival Monday is only a "warm-up" for Carnival Tuesday Brazilians culture.

Carnival Tuesday begins promptly at 8 a.m. Thousands of masqueraders are in full costume, ready and impatiently awaiting their chance to strut in front of the television cameras as bands cross the main judging points. Each band has its own historical, mythological or tropical concept with various sections depicting aspects of the main theme.