Exploring Hong Kong Prior to the Takeover by China

 Guest Post: Ruth Elayne Kongaika

On Friday, May 24, 1996, I set out on a journey to the Far East. Never having been there before, I did not know what to expect. My husband had gone ahead two weeks earlier for business. I was comforted to know that he would be there waiting for me in Hong Kong.

I traveled together with a group of people in my church from Laie, Hawaii. They were all going for the purpose of attending the Hong Kong LDS temple dedication. My husband and I would attend the dedication, but spend the rest of our time away from the group exploring Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Mormon TempleMy daughter dropped me off at the Honolulu airport to pick up a flight on China Airlines. I sat by an older couple and next to the toilet. It was hard for me to rest because of all the passengers making their way to relieve themselves. When I tried to start up a conversation with the elderly man beside me, he told me that he was hard of hearing. I spent the majority of the flight reading my Reader’s Digest and any other reading material I could find. I dozed on and off a couple of times and watched the movie “Sabrina” with Chinese subtitles appearing across the bottom of the screen.

Japanese Squat ToiletThe jet took us to Tokyo, Japan for our first layover. We had flown for eight hours. My first time in Japan, and all I got to see was the airport. We were there for nearly an hour. I located a toilet facility and there were two stalls. One had a conventional toilet, although it was child sized. The other stall had a Japanese toilet, which was just a hole in the floor. You were required to squat down to use it. This was my first experience with this sort of convenience.

 

 

I spoke to my husband on the phone and he told me “don’t be scared”, which left me wondering what there was to be scared of. Again, we boarded an airplane and were headed for Taipei, Taiwan, where we would have a longer layover. Right after our take off, we were able to see Mt. Fuji on the right side of the plane. It was very majestic and snow covered. We were served attractively prepared Japanese food, but I ate very little as it smelled unfamiliar. We arrived in Taipei three hours later and we got to know the airport very well.

HKG-Hong-Kong-a-Jumbo-Jet-approaches-Kai-Tak-Airport

We gained five hours, but lost a day on our trip. The sky was very dark as we made our final approach into Hong Kong. There was quite a storm, rainy and windy, and there was a great deal of turbulence. I became alarmed and started praying that we would be able to make it. I was sitting by a lady from Hong Kong told me that Hong Kong was one of the hardest airports to land at! She said that we had to land right in the middle of the big city, where there were sky scrapers all around. Just at the time she said that, I looked out the window to see tall buildings, and then the plane suddenly dropped, almost like a roller coaster ride. Then it picked up speed again, and I no longer saw the skyscrapers. I figured we were going to try to make another approach from a different direction.

To be continued……

Ruth Elayne Kongaika was raised in the mainland, USA, and has been living in the South Pacific for the past forty years. She enjoys trying to capture the beauty of the islands through her photography, painting and writing. She has a blog which shares some of her art and favorite subjects at:

http://hawaiianart.ning.com/

email: kongaikr@byuh.edu

- See more at: http://www.euroradialyouth2016.com/travelogue/category/guest-post/ruth-elayne-kongaika/

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What to Include in India Travel Packages

                   

India is an incredibly popular tourist destination and continues to attract millions of visitors a year with all the different sights and experiences it has to offer. You will find that there are so many choices about what to do and see while you are on holiday in this fascinating land that you are spoiled for choice and will need to decide what the best travel package is for you personally to make sure you see as much as you can on your trip.

The Gateway of India monument in Mumbai (India)The majority of Indian tour operators try to create a range of packages which consist of a range of activities that include interest and variety. It is important to make sure that you pay attention to the different places that you wish to go and also the budget that you are working with for your trip. You will be able to find different travel coupons that help you to take advantage of some great deals and promotions.

Indian tour packages are filled with cultural, historical and spiritual wonders that are able to enthral and excited visitors with their rich and interesting aspects. You will often be able to choose packages that centre on a certain type of activity, for example adventure, culture, architecture or food. Of course you can find tours which include a broad spectrum of these features, while there are some tour operators who allow you to simply create your own personalised package of sights and attractions which are of particular interest to you personally.

One of the easiest ways to find the best tour package in India, is through one of the many dedicated tour companies. You will find that they are experts on what to see and do, while at the same time are able to find the best deals and plans to make your trip economical and enjoyable. You can adapt the tours to your particular interests which may include wildlife, culture, history, shopping or food. These are all very different aspects of the country and you can decide which interest you most, or you are also able to choose a few key features that you wish to include.

You can find a great deal of restaurant coupons India India which will allow you to further experience more of the different tastes and flavours of the country without breaking the bank. If you are more into excitement and adventure then you will be able to find a great deal of tours which are geared up to offer you safari style trail tours where you can explore national parks and spot some of the local natural wildlife and nature.

So if you want to experience the holiday of a life time, start searching now and you will be able to create the most amazing trip of your life through the fabulous services of different Indian tour packages. Once you have been on one tour you will be sure to come home eager to start planning the next!

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Leave Your Shoes at the Door

Guest Post: Ruth Elayne Kongaika

Growing up with four seasons, we almost always kept our shoes (and sometimes socks) on outside and inside the house. Only on the hottest of days during the summer, did we go barefooted. So when our little family relocated to the South Pacific, I was curious to learn that it is customary to leave your shoes on the porch before entering a home. It took me quite a while to remember this tradition, often finding myself as the only one in the group with my shoes still on in the house and then apologizing profusely.

Leave your shoes at the doorIn Hawaii, where we now live, home owners often put little signs at the doors to remind guests to remove their shoes. There may be a little wood or metal rack specifically for storing shoes just outside of the front door. Most locals are aware that tourists may not be educated in this practice, and so in an effort not to offend them, they say “no need”.

My dear Dad came to stay with us for a while in Hawaii. He is of Scottish descent and has lived all his life in a colder climate. You rarely see him with bare feet, even in the house. He has very tender feet and does not even like the feel of sand on them. I did not force him to alter his routine while he stayed with us. My own feet have toughed a bit while living in the islands. Actually, I prefer to go bare footed and can hardly wait to take my shoes off when I have been away.

Then there is my husband, who was raised in the islands before going to school in a cold climate. He still can’t make up his mind whether to leave his shoes on or off, and I discover his shoes in the oddest places throughout the house! He told me that the first time he saw snow he thought it looked fun to run in and attempted it shoeless! He quickly learned that doing so was quite painful.

In the Fiji Islands, where we have visited, there are certain tribes who get the coals in the fire burning, and then show their bravery by walking on them unprotected. I suppose their calloused feet make it much easier, having gone without shoes most of their lives.

Fire Walking Ceremony South PacificIn some other countries (Asia), shoes are removed so as not to tear the straw floor covering. In Japan the word for outside shoes is “dosoku” meaning “soiled feet”. It is perceived as dishonorable when someone enters the home with outdoor shoes on. They have specific indoor shoes available for guests to wear. In some parts of the world

Since we have so many different cultures here in Hawaii, it is good to consider the owner of the home as you enter their abode. A telltale sign would be if there is a pile of shoes or slippers at the front door. That is what I look for when I pay a visit to someone I do not know well. Often I find a pair of attractive shoes that may actually fit me and wonder what would happen if they would notice if I left mine and took theirs (Just kidding)!

Shoes Sign HawaiiIn scripture, it tells of prophets removing their shoes when they are on “holy ground”. The same is expected in some mosques or chapels today. A person’s home should be considered their inner sanctum.  Consideration of a person’s customs and traditions shows respect and honor. It is always good to learn whether you need to take your shoes off at the front door. Aloha!

Ruth Elayne Kongaika was raised in the mainland, USA, and has been living in the South Pacific for the past forty years. She enjoys trying to capture the beauty of the Polynesian islands through her photography, painting and writing. She has a blog which shares some of her art and favorite subjects at:

http://hawaiianart.ning.com/

email: kongaikr@byuh.edu

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Take a Journey to the Top 5 best Indian Beaches this Summer

Forget Australia, Rio de Janeiro and even Ibiza or the beaches of Sunny California, you have plenty of options this time to choose from the bounty of coastal regions in India. The action is happening in India’s beaches and you sure wouldn’t want to miss all the fun. Take a look at the best 5 beaches we have found for you and be marveled at what they have to offer.

Exotic palms cliff beach in Varkala. Kerala. India

The quiet yet happening Varkala

A perfect place to beat the heat, unwind and relax or even enjoy swimming.  One of the best dramatic sunsets is seen here. Plenty of beach shacks where you can unwind with a drink in your hand, watching the sun go down into oblivion…… read more

Om beach Gokarna karnataka India

The Pleasures of Being at Mystical Gokarna

Gokarna is a holy town, small and remote and has four pristine and very secluded beaches. In equal measure one would find the party animal and the holy tourist flocking around this place….read more

Tropical beach of Palolem, Goa state, India

The Beauty of Palolem

With thickets enclosing every part of the Palolem beach, the coconut palms make this beach one of the best in India. The beach is long, semi-circle in shape and very shady, thanks to the row of palm trees….read more

Baga Beach located in India, district Goa

The Beautiful Baga beach

If you are in North Goa, don’t miss the opportunity to be at Baga Beach. The beach always has activity and action happening on its sandy coasts. Right from fine dining options to thrilling water sports such as snorkeling, and a nightlife that beats till early next morning, Baga is surely a paradise to be at…read more

Backwaters of Marari, Kerala, India

The Silent Yet Well Known Marari

On the fringes of Kerala in close quarters to Alleppey, for those of you who would like the stillness of backwaters, Marari is the place to be. It is still being developed and isn’t as crowded as other beaches are, hence a reason why tourists flock to this sleepy beach, which is actually a fisherman’s society…read more

With the five best beaches thrown to you by Thrillophilia – Adventure Tours India this summer, where do you plan to go and visit, do let us know!!

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Plenty of Beach and Water Sports in India to Enjoy

Amazing India gives you the best of all vacation spots to have your thrills and excitement at. And when we talk of water sports in India, the beaches call you to enjoy them all. Thanks to the vast stretches of sandy beaches, coastlines that are long and numerous lakes and streams, as a traveler you would be spoiled for choice. If you are done with angling, kayaking in Rishikesh and river rafting in the northern parts of India come down to the wide coastal regions and rejoice. Plenty of options for water sports such as wind surfing, skiing, snorkeling and scuba diving experiences await you. You would find many beaches across India to cater to your adventurous soul, go for it we say!

Tall standing lighthouse at the end of Arabian Sea, Kerala, India

When to be at the beaches for water sports

The best time would be around early September to the end of March, and this would be across all beaches in India.

The array of options when it comes to water sports and beach fun

  1. River Rafting,
  2. Water Skiing,
  3. Scuba Diving,
  4. Fishing,
  5. Angling,
  6. Sailing
  7. Power Kiting
  8. Surfing to name a few
River rafting in the river Ganges, Rishikesh, India

The Pleasures of Rafting

Challenging the untamed rivers of the north has been done and you got all the pleasure from the adventure, so now it is time for you to head down south and visit the coastal regions to enjoy beach water sports, such as snorkeling in Goa.

Scuba Diving India

The Joys of Scuba Diving

If you want to learn more about the marine like and explore the underwater kingdom, go scuba diving or dolphin watching. The best place to check for the same would be around the beaches of Goa, Kerala and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. There is a lot that you can discover underwater, colorful marine life, exotic underwater creatures which you may have only seen on television or read about, and if lucky you could even chance upon on hidden treasures and ship wrecks as well.

Fishing in India

Like Angling and Fishing?, Here is your chance

Thanks to the coastlines of India which are wide and large, you now have the best options to go fishing and angling in them. Some of the favorite catches would include the shark, mahaseer and the trout amongst many other fishing preys to be found. Conservation rules are maintained and to be adhered by when enjoying this beach activity.

Surfing in Goa India

Surf and Sail as much as you want

The most sought after beach sports in India would be sailing and surfing. The beaches of Kerala, Mumbai and Goa offer plenty of options for the same. This is one of the best ways for you to connect with nature, and talk to the winds and the waters at the same time.

Watersking Goa India

Fancy a pull with Water Skiing

Must we also bring to your notice that India has a huge fan following for the sport of water skiing, sometimes more thrilling than what you would do on snow peaked mountains. Most of the beaches across India allow water skiing and to enjoy this sport to the fullest, you should know how to swim well. The Andaman and Nicobar islands, along with Goa are hotspots for water skiing enthusiasts, go grab yourself the challenge and talk with the waters this summer.

Man in canoe on sunrise. Kerala backwaters, India

Don’t forget kayaking and canoeing

Around the coastal regions of India, one would find a lot of lakes and beaches allowing you to canoe and kayak in its still waters. You can glide through the waters of Goa, Karnataka and even Kerala as well. There would always be plenty of schools and training guides to help you enjoy the sport of kayaking in Karnataka, Goa or even Kerala.

With a coastline of more than 6000km in length and the best beaches along with breathtaking sceneries, beach water sports in India surely is a hit with tourists from all across the globe. Come join the fun and enjoy what the beaches of India have in store for you, if you need more help get in touch with ThrillophiliaAdventure Travel India!

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Beautiful Beaches of South Goa, India

Goa is India's smallest state, but it's one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. This coastal state is recognized for its biodiversity, history, culture and architecture. The area's spectacular beaches along the Arabian Sea are what attract domestic and international tourists to this popular region on India's western shore. With numerous cheap holidays to Goa available, travelers will be looking for that favorite place under the sun.  Beachcomber Pete Travel Adventures has put this list of a few of the most famous beaches in south Goa India.

 

Benaulim BeachBenaulim Beach South Goa India Photo by racoles With its expansive ocean frontage, there is plenty of room on Benaulim beach to find a secluded spot to relax while immersing yourself in the local culture. This beautiful beach is dotted with colorful fishing boats and lifeguard vehicles. It's less crowded than neighboring beaches, and there's always enough space to stretch out on the sand. The area near Benaulim beach is known for its fine cultural handicrafts and traditional rosewood furniture. Visitors to this lovely beach are frequently treated to views of dolphin pods that swim near the shore.
Palolem BeachOld wooden boats on the beach in Palolem, Goa, India Measuring roughly two kilometers long, Palolem beach is situated along an arching cove that is frequented by fisherman and vacationers. Dramatic palm trees, verdant headlands and turquoise waters converge in this magnificent location. It's located roughly 40 kilometers from the town of Margao, but buses, taxis, auto-rickshaws and trains connect the two destinations. This beautiful semicircular beach is already popular with backpackers and is gaining popularity with each passing season. The northern areas of the beach feature calm shallows while bars and restaurants are located in the southern area. Palolem beach is a wonderful place to relax under coco huts while spotting dolphins and enjoying seafood snacks.
Agonda BeachAgonda Beach, South Goa India Photo by Kate and Tim Located along a rounded cove similar to Palolem, Agonda beach features a wide band of soft yellow sand measuring approximately three kilometers long. This secluded beach lacks the hoards of tourists, souvenir vendors and restaurants found in other areas, which makes this pristine beach even better. If you're lucky, you might even encounter water buffalo herds that are fond of this area. Stay in an elevated hut or a beachfront cottage to get in touch with nature at this beautiful spot.
Cavelossim BeachCavelossim Beach, South Goa India Photo by JoSeFiNa

As luxury hotels establish resorts, Cavelossim has quickly gained popularity, but the beach hasn't lost its charm. This celebrated beach is located on a peninsula between the Arabian Sea and the Sal River. Its white sands, sparkling clear waters and lava rock backdrop make it one of the country's most beautiful beaches. Seashell hunting, kayaking and snorkeling are popular activities along the 3.5-kilometer Cavelossim beach. It's also a great place to see schools of dolphins passing through the area.

Mobor BeachMobar Beach, South Goa India This phenomenal yellow sand beach is situated along a narrow peninsula of dunes that are tucked between the Arabian Sea and the Sal River estuary. This outstanding beach covers a 10-kilometer area and features a variety of sheltered coves and isolated hideaways that are perfect for soaking in the sun. Visitors to this magnificent beach frequently see schools of majestic dolphins. Goa's 100-kilometer coast is lined with world-class beaches, which make it one of the top destinations for committed beachgoers.

 

 

 

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Visiting Bali’s smaller laid back brothers – The Gili islands

Gili, Bali, IndonesiaWe catch the ferry to Gili from Bali. It is raining hard, so we expect a tough trip. The first bit along Bali green hilled coastline is quiet, but as we leave the coast for the open waters, big waves starts splashing heavily up the windscreen of the small ferry.  Soon after several pale faced people leave their seat rushing to the exit only to come back soaking wet a few minutes later. It doesn’t get better, when another big wave pulls off the single window viper, leaving it somewhere in the Bali Sea and making it almost impossible to look out the window. The captain doesn´t look too worried and about half an hour later, just as the rain stops, the ferry hits the white sands of Gili Trawangan and the pale faces soon get their color back as everybody gets of the boat.

Just as wild as the ocean had been, just as quite is Gili before noon.  Here are no cars and motorbikes. The only way to get around the 7 kilometer long coastline is to walk, by bike or by horse. We pick up our bags and start walking down the coastal road that also serves as the islands main road. We pass several places that rents out nice looking bungalows and we quickly find one that we like. We leave our bags in the bungalow and head for a walk along the beach. Soon the distances between the houses grows longer and longer and the only attraction is the white sand and the crystal clear blue water.

The water is just too tempting, so we rent some snorkeling gear from one of the little shops along the road and dive into the blue waters. I had been told that sea turtle spotting in Gili is almost guaranteed when snorkeling.  After 45 minutes in the water I have been swimming with three different sea turtles, so I guess the guarantee holds up.

Before we return our hired equipment, e digest the magical experience of swimming side by side with a sea turtle among thousands of colorful fish over an ice cold avocado shake, in a pile of pillows in the shade of one of the many wooden gazebos on the beach.

A Quite Day on Gili, IndonesiaAs the sunset approaches the cozy bars and cafes along the beach starts to fill up. The restaurant owners display the catch of the day along the street. Just take your pick among lobsters, shrimps, barracudas and a lot of other good stuff from the local seas and you will soon find your choosing’s on the barbeque.  We pass on the restaurants and walk down to the central market, where the local fishermen have offers similar to the restaurants. Unlike the restaurant there is no tablecloth on our table here, but what we miss out on in decoration we get in atmosphere and good prices. We order a plate of shrimps and a large Bintang – the preferred beer in Indonesia – to go with it. Half an hour later we have shrimp juices up to our elbows and all that is left on the table is the empty shrimp shells and bottles.

The fishermen start packing their stalls down as the night takes over and the music from the surrounding bars gets louder.  Monday, Wednesday and Friday are the nights for going out on Gili – the rest of the week is fairly quiet. Since it is Wednesday we decide for one more Bintang in one of the bars, before we return to our bungalow.

On the way back we realize that we on our first day have covered almost everything there is to do on Gili –snorkeling or diving and relaxation in the sun. Well that is not so bad after all – we don’t mind repeating it all again tomorrow.

 

About the author

Stefan Russel is one of the founders of Vilondo villa rental, that rents our luxury villas in Bali and runs a Travel blog on Bali.

 

Facts about the Gili islands

  • The Gili islands are a part of Indonesia and can only be reached by boat. If you come from Lombok it is just a 5 minute boat trip, while it will take you around an hour from Bali.
  • Gili Trawangan is the main island of the Gili Islands.  The two Gili other islands  – Gili Meno and Gili Air – are even  smaller and less visited.
  • The distance around the coast of Gili Trawangan is 7 km

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Places To Go Scuba Diving In India

Three Friends Scuba DivingHave you ever wondered what the underwater world looked like? If that has been on your mind for sometime, maybe it is time for you to go scuba diving. The underwater world as the name suggests is not visible from above. There is a certain sense of vibrancy and color attached to its nature. Every natural form under the deep waters of the sea are so well sculpted and structured that it leaves you spellbound. Right from the schools of colorful fish passing by you, to the exotic looking sea creatures inquisitively staring at you, and the silent sea anemones sitting still, they all have a story to tell, something for you to explore. Do this all with the help of scuba diving or snorkeling in Goa and across India, there are various places we would like to share with you where such water sport activities happen.

The underwater wealth

India is home to a large collection rich in underwater wealth, right from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal, to the Lakshadweep Islands at the Arabian Sea. From across the globe diving enthusiasts throng these famous spots and explore the stunning underwater life below. And apart from this India is also home to a range of water sports and beach activities, such as sailing or scuba diving.

Havelock Island, Andaman Islands, IndiaThe tranquil Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The first thing you would notice about the famous Andaman and Nicobar Islands is the sparkling turquoise water. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are in fact 572 islands, each small and full of breathtaking flora and fauna, coupled with wildlife and palms that sway to the music of the winds. The beaches over here are white and have plenty of wild colorful flowers growing on its fringes. You feel as if you are in a movie which such picturesque shots, wild birds, coconut palms and the gentle breeze blowing into your face.

One of the famous surfing and scuba diving spots in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands would be the Havelock Islands. It has vast sandy beaches, plenty of reefs, and you would be very lucky to visit ship wrecks as well. This is a haunt for scuba divers from across the globe, even snorkeling activities happen over here. Don’t miss the Andaman and Nicobar Islands experience, it’s a memory you would cherish for a very long time to come.

When should you be there: From early June to late September heavy rains lash across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, so the best time to be would be early October to mid May.

 

The Dotted Lakshadweep Islands

The reason why we say “dotted” is because the famous Lakshadweep Islands are actually a collection of thirty six smaller islands, each of them unique and blessed with abundant beauty of its own. As you approach and settle in these islands, you would find plenty of flora and fauna to soak your visual senses into. The sands on the islands are white and clear, the water sparkles like fluid crystals (dolphin watching in these waters are a hit) and the flora around would take your breath away.

Bangaram Island, Lakshadweep Islands, IndiaAs a visitor one can enjoy water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving. Two famous spots to do so would be;

1.Agatti Island, and

2.Bangaram Island

The underwater world below these two islands drags the most enthusiastic of all divers from every corner of the globe to come and explore. You would find natural coral reefs, plenty of blue lagoons and marine life which are delicate and pristine to experience and satiate your visual senses.

When should you be there: The best time to be at Lakshadweep is from November to end May, the other months are lashed by heavy rains.

 

The Gorgeous Netrani Islands

Netrani sits peacefully ten kilometers away from the coast of Karnataka and in the famous mighty Arabian Sea. It is a tiny spec of an island which houses plenty of goats and pigeons, corals, the famous butterfly fish, parrot fish, trigger fish, shrimps and eels. This is one of the reason why this colorful a la carte seduces the minds of many divers from across the globe. Netrani is a gorgeous island and perfect for those who want to experience scuba diving or snorkeling. You can also reach this island from Mumbai and Goa as well, but you would need permission since the nearing island to Netrani is used by the Indian Navy.

When should you be there: Early December to late January is the best time to be at Netrani.

 

The Sandy Beaches of Goa

Goa is a paradise for water sport lovers, for trekkers and for those who want to go snorkeling or scuba diving as well. It is a delightful experience being under the waters in Goa, where you get to come in close contact with the inhabitants of the underwater world. Throughout the tourist season the visibility range is from five to ten meters, and the waters are temperate and safe to dive into.

Tropical Beach Arambola, Goa, IndiaFamous spots for scuba diving in Goa would be

  1. Suzy’s Wreck – Best for those who are amateurs and want to scuba dive. You get to see the remnants of WW2 metal ship wrecks in shallow waters. There is a lot of colorful underwater life, corals, angelfish, battlefish, snappers, barracudas, stonefish, sweetlips, nudibranchs, blennies, Moorish idols and parrotfish to name a few.
  2. Davy Jones Locker – This is a place only for divers who have experience in scuba diving. The currents are not friendly and what you get to see here is a broken metal wreck, large groupers, jacks, mullets, tuna, barracudas etc
  3. Shelter Cove – Shallow and good for beginners to scuba dive and have fun. You would get to see a lot of colorful fish, lobsters and hard coral as well.
  4. Uma Guma Reef – off the famous Grand Island, this scuba diving spot is not for the weak at heart or the inexperienced. What you get to see here are triggerfish, parrotfish, puffers, angelfish, sweetlips, Moorish idols, porcupinefish, snappers etc.
  5. Bounty Bay – Fit for both amateurs and experienced scuba divers. You get to see small fish species of various types and hard coral, and finally,
  6. The Jetty- North of the famous Grand Island, this scuba diving spot is shallow and what you get to see here mostly would be mullets and lionfish.

So folks, if scuba diving is the name of the game for you this summer, get in touch with Thrillophilia- Biggest Indian Adventure Tour  provider help you find the right dream vacation!!

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What makes Lahore, Pakistan a wonderful tourist destination?

Lahore is the provincial capital of Punjab, Pakistan and is home to about 100 million people. The city’s historic value is apparent from its old architecture and rich culture. It is one of the most happening cities of Pakistan and has been acting as the catalyst state to launch many important movements. For tourists, Lahore is perhaps the safest city and offers a whole lot of exciting things to do, and places to visit. From fine hotels to chic rides and excellent food spots, Lahore has everything for everyone. I am compiling a list of five best places to visit in Lahore.Badshahi Mosque, Samads of Rangit Singh Lahore, Pakistan

Shahi Qila

If you are visiting Lahore for the very first time, Shahi Qila, also known as Lahore Fort, is the place to start from. When constructed in the 16th century, the Fort was located on the northwestern edge of the Walled City. Lahore has expanded fairly ever since and the Fort is now somewhat in the centre of northern Lahore. The place is grand, its architecture is mesmerizing and detailed, and the charisma of Shahi Qila is hard to ignore. The Fort is spread over an area of 20 hectors and has passageways for the elephant rides. If you work your imagination a bit, you can visualize the scene from centuries ago when kings, queens, princess and court men of Moghal Era had used the place entirely as their own territory.Magnificent wall of Lahore Fort, Lahore, Pakistan

Food Street

Food Street in Gawalmandi, Lahore had earned great fame among the locals and foreigners in quite little time. Due to various serious issues concerning the people living in surrounding network of narrow lanes, Food Street Gawalmandi had to be closed down. For couple of years, everyone who has been to the place or had planned doing so appeared complaining about this action. On popular demand, Food Street was opened again in January 2012 but the venue was changed this time. The Fort Road, locally known as Hazoori Baagh Road, located in Shahi Mohala near Shahi Qila, is where you can now find all sorts of Desi food that is home to different regions in Pakistan. People have warmly welcomed the decision and the most attractive “thing to do” in Lahore i.e. eating in traditional settings, has begun again.

Anarkali Bazaar

Anarkali Bazar is one of the oldest markets of South Asia and has a glorious history that spans over 200 years. The bazaar is known best for its narrow lanes where sunlight refuses to enter even on sunny days. Small shops stuffed with fancy jewellery, readymade traditional dresses, shawls, bangles, cosmetics, shoes, bridal wear and everything that comes to mind when you think of Asian Fashion can be found there. Lights, Colours and Life are the three words I have for AnarKali Bazaar, Lahore. If you wish to buy something for the friends and family back home, Anarkali is the place where everything is a display of local handicrafts and cottage industry.

MM Alam Road

Including the things, which attract me the most about visiting new places, food is on top of that. In Pakistan and especially Lahore, food is main part of every activity. From breakfast till late night suppers, the variety available in Lahore will confuse you. I am especially very fond of the their grand breakfasts where traditional “Halwa Poori”, chick beans masala, “Kulchas”, fresh butter, Parathas, scrambled eggs, yogurt, pickle, “Lassi” and God knows what else are available on the table. There are various restaurants, which offer similar range of food for breakfast. If you wish to explore the complete range of food served and liked in Pakistan, MM Alam road is where you can do just about that. This road is completely dedicated to the restaurants and cafes in Lahore. You will also find Pizza Hut, KFC, Subway, Mcdonalds, and Hardees there but of course, the plan is to check the local taste so go for some local restaurants that you have not tried before. 

Fortress Stadium

Located in the Cantonment Area of Lahore, Fortress Stadium is the securest places to visit in Lahore, especially for the foreigners. The setting of shops her is somewhat westernized and many branded outlets are also located in Fortress. Fortress is known best for boutiques and shopping malls including Pot Pori and Hyper Star. Various designer outlets, gift shops, children’s play areas, food spots, music centres, and toy stores are the highlights of the area. You should also try this local restaurant called Bundu Khan, their BBQ and Sea Food is the best available in town. You can request for spices according to your taste and mine has been hard so I love how well marinated, and juicy their BBQ was. I have enjoyed sipping coffee and watching the people wander around in Fortress Stadium and I will do it again whenever I will visit Lahore next time.

Author Biography: William King is the director of Pakistan real estate and mainly deals in Karachi, Islamabad and Lahore real estate. Being an entrepreneur and passionate blogger he likes to share his knowledge and expertise with the industry people by writing for various related blogs.

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White Knights and Onion Domes, Moscow Russia

When thinking of Moscow, visions of onion domes and white nights frequently come to mind as does its rich history, culture and fantastic architecture. There is much to this fascinating and historical city that will capture the imagination of visitors.

Kremlin, Moscow, RussiaThe first written accounts of Moscow appear from the year 1147, in the Historical Chronicles established by Prince Yury Dolgoruky of Suzdal, Russia. In an account of his journey to Vladimir, his army made a stop along the Moskva River at the small village that later became Moscow. In the year 1328, Moscow became the capital city of Russia. Later, the capital was moved to St. Petersburg under the reign of Peter I in the year 1713 but in March 1918, under the leadership of Vladimir Lenin, Moscow became the capital of the new Russia – the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics. Revolution in Moscow in 1991 saw the end of the Soviet era and a shift to a more democratic government system in Russia.

The Kremlin is probably the best known structure in all of Russia. With its beautiful and distinctly Russian 15th century architecture, this imposing fortress is a symbol of the strong and proud heritage of Russia. The Kremlin complex contains twenty towers, six churches and cathedrals and a number of opulent palaces. The entire complex is surrounded by the Kremlin Wall, built during the reign of Ivan III in the late 15th century.

The Kremlin Armory Museum, one of the largest museums in the world, is home to the treasures of Tsars through the years and includes Faberge eggs, jewels of both Russian and foreign royalty, costumes and carriages dating back hundreds of years and a vast collection of both Russian and foreign weaponry.

Red Square Moscow, RussiaRed Square is a must-see when traveling to Moscow! There is a wealth of history found there such as the awe inspiring St. Basil’s Cathedral that was commissioned by Ivan the Terrible to commemorate the conquest of Kazan over the Mongols in 1552. Other attractions found on Red Square include the lavish State Department Store GUM, the Lenin Mausoleum, the Kazan Cathedral and much more.

A bit off the beaten path is a fascinating remnant from the Cold War era. Secure Command Post Taganskaya, also known as Bunker 42, is a former KGB bunker located far below the Taganskaya Metro station. It was built in the early 1950s as headquarters for KGB operations and as a bomb shelter in case of nuclear attack. Tours are offered that take you deep below the city, 65 meters down to the formerly secret facility. The bunker has been restored and contains authentic radio and communications equipment of the era, command desks and Soviet-era rifles and weapons that can be handled by visitors. There are many rooms and secret passages throughout the massive complex to capture the imagination. Tours are guided and by appointment only.

Moskva River , Moscow, RussiaThere is much to see in this fascinating city along the Moskva River that will inspire and provide memories to last a lifetime. Several outstanding parks offer free admission through out the city. Park Sokoloniiki is a great place to stroll through birch tree forest while enjoying amusements and games that are available. After a afternoon in the park try one of the many nearby Moscow restaurants offering a variety of food with a local Russian flavor. Kolomenskoye park is another favorite, sitting in magnificent gardens with great views of the former Imperial building. For more information on this historic city, check out My Destination Moscow.

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