Danlong Traveling Blog

Archive for the ‘Travel Guide’ Category

From the sweeping boulevards of the elegant 5th arrondissement to a moonlight cruise on the Seine, Paris is undeniably the most romantic city in the world. Picnic under the Eiffel tower, discover the abundant treasures of the Louvre or simply sit in a typical Montmartre caf and watch the world go by. In this dreamy city which has inspired artists over the centuries, all that is romantic, prevails. When the sun goes down, this city really comes to life.

Another must visit attraction is the Louvre, if only for the stunning piece of architecture that is the Louvre Pyramid. However, the Louvre does have much more to offer, including the most famous masterpieces from Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa to Veronese’s Wedding feast at Cana.

For a great cafe experience try going to the artists quarter where even now you are more likely to overhear a conversation on the views and opinions of Jean Paul Sartre, the famous philosopher, or the French impressionists than a discussion on the sport or other such, to the French, mundane subjects.

One of the best places to stay if you are looking for a luxurious style of accommodation in Paris is the Arc De Triomphe Hilton Hotel. It is a well-designed, very modern, well-built building that the brand Hilton Hotels is famous for. It is situated a few blocks away from Arc De Triomphe. When you enter the lobby, you will be greeted by an elegantly designed Parisian style decors.

Notre Dame Cathedral – situated on an island in the River Seine this gothic cathedral has dominated the Paris skyline for hundreds of years. Made famous for it’s hunchback tale it is one of Europe’s most important church buildings.

No one can be unfamiliar with the popularity of Paris in this regard. World’s largest opera houses, ballets and shows have been consistently hosted by Paris. Getting a single glimpse of the places where these pioneers were shot is an achievement in itself. Theatres, dance clubs and various such activities have been initiated in Paris a long time ago.

And of course there are the theme parks like Disneyland Paris and Parc Asterix, which we have all heard about, but what about the Mer de Sable, which has a wild west theme where you can see shows, yet if you prefer wildlife rather than wild rides, you can watch eagles in flight along with tree top walks at the Espace Rambouillet.

On a Sunday morning, there is no better pleasure than a meander down the Rue du Mouffetard in the 5th arrondissement to the home of Paris’ most famous pedestrianised street and street market. Indulge your senses in the divine flavours and appetizing of stall after stall of cheeses, meat and fresh fruit and vegetables.

If you are planning to travel from Bristol to Paris and Brussels, then Eurostar train is the most convenient and fastest means of transport to travel. Eurostar has teamed up with several train operating companies in UK. Now you can travel to Paris and Brussels with one price.

The Caribbean Islands: If you are looking towards dancing on the beach with reggae beats in the background, then you need to visit the white sandy beaches of the Caribbean Islands. Let me assure you will not find such sites in any other part of the globe.

Maldives or the Republic of Maldives is part of the Island Nations of Indian Ocean. It sits on the Laccadive Sea roughly seven miles south- west of Sri-Lanka. The nation’s capital is called Male and has a population of about 105,000 people. It’s the smallest Asian country both in population and area. It used to be ruled by a king and used to be known as the King’s Island and contained the royal dynasties where power was exercised.

The Maldives one hotel per island policy has ensured the unique and still unspoilt charm of the destination. Even the airport has its own island with the obligatory “airport hotel” . so noise from the airport is never a problem. Upon arrival sea planes and speedboats connect with every arriving flight to transfer you to your chosen hotel. These transfers can range from a 20 minutes speed boat ride to a 45 minutes sea plane – just remember that its would take 45 minutes to fly from Heathrow to Edinburgh so these islands can be a distance away from one another.

Some of the islands have retained the typical “no news, no shoes” flavor of the Maldives with thatched roofs, ceiling fans and open air bathrooms whilst others have developed into sophisticated, luxury five star resorts.

Travelling to the Maldives is pretty straightforward. Standard travel documents, such as a passport are needed, but you don’t need a visa. Visas are only required if you are planning to work there.

Accommodation in the Maldives differs from resort to resort and from island to island. Some resorts offer basic huts with outdoor bathroom facilities that will give you the traditional island feel, while others offer all the standard services that we are accustomed too.

Most of the resorts in the Maldives provide some, or all, types of water trips. Night time fishing trips are a special treat. The Maldives is also known as one of the best diving destinations in the world and the resorts cater very well for this. Most of the resorts have got their own diving school.

Komandoo Island is a great first place to visit. The beaches there will provide a wonderful start to your holiday, with idyllic white sands and a lagoon that surrounds them, which is literally a perfect turquoise. In the middle of the island is a reef which lets you see the coral and go snorkeling or just get to see a variety of sea life and some invertebrates which scurry around the top. This really is a beautiful site, so should be on your agenda.

Kuredu Island is the other for marine life, with many fish that frequent the area. Be sure to make the most of this by scuba diving or snorkelling to see the resident beauty that will be all around you. There are sharks around the area, but take an instructor with you. Feel assured though that shark attacks are very unlikely. Remain cautious and sensible and you are sure to have a safe and visually stunning dive. There are lagoons that can be explored, or else just have a swim in the warm waters that are located in this part of the world. On the island itself you can see some of the Flora of the Maldives, with much greenery covering the place.

Libya is perhaps the most African country that has richest Mediterranean store of Roman and Greek cities, Continents most exceptional and accessible desert scenery, worlds finest open-air galleries of prehistoric rock art, and a country with most lively ancient history. Visitors to the country find much to experience about the history, culture, people, their religion and beliefs as well as their way of life. If you take Libya flights you will be not only getting a journey experience but you will be getting a tour through the history and culture of this unique nation. Libya is primarily a Muslim country and one of only a few countries where Islamic rules are applied. It is misconception about this country that it is a historic place and has nothing to do except ancient sightseeing. The country is also home to many entertainment complexes, theaters, cinemas, music clubs, cafes and restaurants, and much more suiting visitors interest.

Let us take start from the sightseeing tour. Some of the most exciting places that one may visit after taking flights to Libya include; Sabratha, Cyrene, Leptis Magna, Ghadames and Ghat, and Jebel Acacus. Sabratha is an ancient archeological site that is listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 500 BC it houses 3rd century theatre, a Christian basilica, and mosaic floors. Leptis Magna is Roman city that was established in 10th century. Its also a World Heritage Site and is frequently visited by flights to libya takers. This site has many attractions in itself to lure visitors including; circus, theatre, Severan Arch, the Palaestra or Sports Ground, the Nymphaeum, the Hadrianic Baths, the Colonnaded Street, the Severan Forum, and the Severan Basilica.

When it comes to entertainment one may go to beach side, or to some cafes, restaurants, and music clubs that are located in every corner of all most all busy places. It is to be noted that if you take cheap flights to Libya be aware of the fact that alcohol is prohibited and illegal in Libya because its an Islamic country but it does not mean that you will not enjoy there. You may go for music, dancing, eating out, or shopping at nights. There are many places in the open streets of the country as well as some restaurants and cafes that allow visitors to have good time till late hours in the night. So if you take flights to Libya from UK or somewhere else be sure that this diverse and exciting country will never let you get bored off.

Brugge, or Bruges, is perhaps 1 of Belgium’s, if not Europe’s, best locations and is definitely a must-see for travelers. Referred to as the Venice of the North, it is a certainly safeguarded area with ancient structures and is one of the most remarkable sights in Europe. Countless locations are located in this awesome place inclusive of a wide range of galleries, famous structures, churches, and even canals and roads. Lots of specialized activities that the place honors every year produce for an extra special time to visit the city.

Presenting Sand Sculptures in the summertime as well as Ice Sculptures during the cold months is almost considered to be a Bruges custom. The quite young officers have established coming from the 1st year that this has up and running that they’ve got a great organization talent. And yearly, you will find relevant subjects of which captivate the young and old and bring in an unparalleled factor of Bruges under the loop.

Christmas time in Bruges is really a favorite time to travel to since the city lavishes in the holiday spirit.

An ice rink is made on the Bruges marketplace square and you’ll take advantage of the several numerous outlets at which you can buy just anything from Christmas products to attire, and also a wide range of foods, snacks, and beverages. The Ghulwein, the all-time most loved herbal wine beverage manufactured to drink up warm, might be offered. Due to Bruges’ extended and incredibly important history, the city is home to many museums which deliver you a first-hand peek to the city’s earlier times.

These feature the Groeninge Museum, the Memling Art gallery – which always centers at Flemish Old fashioned Works, the Lace Museum, and also for all the beer enthusiasts, do definitely not miss to head to Brewery ‘De Halve Maan.

No visit to Bruges would end up lacking or missing the ever so preferred canal or carriage ride, sampling distinct sweets and waffles, visiting galleries, climbing the Belfry, shopping for craft work including Bruges’ well-known lace, and naturally, trying a number of the more than 350 different Belgian beers.

These are typically just a couple of destinations that have formed Bruges very popular worldwide.

Climate: Bruges is actually an incredible city, mainly throughout the mild winters or the temperate and lovely summers.

Touring during earlier spring will also be a memorable encounter since the colourful plants and flowers of Bruges come to life right after a long cold wintertime. November to January would be the very coldest months with April to September appearing the warmest. But disregarding when you decide to visit, Bruges constantly has something to offer.

Transportation: Considering that Belgium is a densely filled country, they supply considerable public bus routes and tend to be usually utilized by people. Simply make sure to check the bus tracks to prevent even more confusions, but bus drivers are normally much more than delighted to assist you as well as other passengers so do not be afraid to talk to someone for some help. In addition, keep in mind that there are 2 different types of tickets readily available. “De Lijnkaart”, or linecard, usually is applied for trips outside of the city, while “De Stadskaart”, or citycard, are generally widely used for tours just within the city.

Finding a hotel in Bangkok for the first time can be quite confusing. After all there are so many hotels in Bangkok to choose. But if you know you want to stay in or near Bangkok’s hottest red light districts then you’re halfway there as I’ll help you decide which hotels to stay in.

There are three red light districts located in central Bangkok. All are easily accessible by the many modes of transportation in Bangkok. And the hotels in Bangkok range from the no frills budget accommodations to luxury properties with classy service.

Travellers who wish to travel by train to and from Bangkok will have to purchase a rail ticket. These tickets are available online and at the all the train stations. It is also possible to find a travel agent who will purchase the ticket on behalf of the passenger. Most trains have a number of different classes such as first class and second class, and air-conditioned and non air-conditioned. There are tickets for each of these and the most expensive is the first class sleeper. Local trains are not air-conditioned but the Express trains that take travellers from Bangkok to other countries are.

Up on the list of fun activities to enjoy in Bangkok is sightseeing. Bangkok is a visual extravaganza for tourists with attractions at nearly every corner. There are numerous intricate temples, landmarks and monuments, canal rides and river markets, most interesting zoos and amusement parks. When night falls, the city sizzles in entertainment with countless girlie bars blasting with electronic music as well as fine dine Bangkok restaurants. If you would like to move out of the urban areas, you can find car hire services to take you to the beautiful beaches of Thailand such as Patong Beach in Phuket. A Bangkok travel itinerary is not complete without this side trip to one of the best beaches in the world.

If shopping is your thing, there is no greater place than the Weekend markets located at Chatuchak. There, you can purchase jewelry, clothing, souvenirs and other accessories. Also try going to some spa and experience Thai massage to pamper yourself. Another one which is also my personal favorite, go to the Floating Market and experience a one of a kind trading system. You will enjoy floating around many vendors and see other tourists on a boat. Your trip will never be complete without seeing the elephant shows. You will be amazed seeing them dance and all. There is also an enormous museum in the Ancient City where you can find some interesting historical pieces. And lastly, go out at night and have a taste of their delicious authentic Thai cuisines and find entertainment in some of their pubs and clubs and you will definitely go back to your hotel room full and exhausted.

Those visiting Bangkok often visit a place known as Pattaya. It is one of the nearest seaside cities located close to Bangkok, which at the same time is also famous for its hedonistic nightlife! Also, it is close enough to go for an overnight stay.

Christened as the world’s hippest town and the City of the World’s Desire, Istanbul is a spot having a wealth of Ottoman mosques and ancient buildings, galleries, restaurants, pubs, and clubs. It is a city of energy and development that has come a very long way from a feeling of despair.

The primary attraction and center for Byzantium life and Ottoman life in the past was the Hippodrome. Political dramas and chariot races took place here where the Byzantine emperor could’ve lost his throne from a riot that stemmed coming from these chariot races. For the passionate shopper, the center will certainly be the Grand Bazaar. It is geographically the centre of Istanbul and has also been the business center for many centuries. It has more than four thousand stores and lanes upon lanes of dining establishments, workshops and mosques to see. An additional shopper’s Mecca is the Kapali Carsi where traders are selling nearly anything from spices to carpets is plentiful.

One of several cities’ distinctive landmarks is the Aqueduct of Valens.

It’s a limestone structure which rises over the active lanes of the Ataturk Bulvari. While on the topic of constructions, fantastic attractions to visit when in Istanbul are the Aya Sofia, the Galata Bridge, the Galata Tower, and the Mihrimah Sultan Camii among others. Often known as the Hagia Sofia in Greek, the Aya Sofia is essentially the most popular monument in Istanbul. It had been built on the site of Byzantinum’s acropolis by Emperor Justinian. The view from the Galata Bridge and the Galata Tower is a sight to check out especially at sunset. The tower was created in 1348 and it is the tallest structure in Beyoglu. The Mihrimah Sultan Camii is one of the numerous mosques that Istanbul has. In honor of the Magnificent’s favorite daughter, this was created by Suleyman in 1560. It is well known for the stained-glass windows and big interior area. To be able to get educated about the background of Istanbul, one simply has to choose from the countless historic sites it is gifted with. There is the ruin of Anadolu Kavagi Kalesi that’s a ancient castle constructed by the Byzantines which had 8 towers on its walls. A tour of the Dolmabahce Selamlik or the Topkapi Palace un wraps a world of insight on Istanbul.

Local weather: The temperature is perfect and it is the ideal time to visit to Istanbul during the months of April to May (spring) and September to October (autumn). At this time, the skies are clear and the temperatures are milder compared to summer and winter time. The majority of the art festivals and music occasions happen in spring and autumn and the Formula 1 Grand Prix occurs in June. From July to August while the days are extremely hot, lots of Istanbul’s head to the west and south and some businesses close during this particular time.

Transportation: Modes of transportation in Istanbul are ferries, sea buses, trams, metros, metro buses, buses and taxis. The most popular way to travel in Istanbul is by ferry and boat too. All you need to travel around is a smart ticket which is a chip which you can buy credit for some Turkish liras.

General Introduction

Harbin is the capital city of Heilong Jiang Province. When talking about Harbin, People will mention the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival . It is a well know winter holidays destinations in China. If you are a sking lover, then Harbin is a gpod place to travel.

History of Harbin

Harbin itself doesn’t have a long history as a city unlike most other Chinese cities. The area had fishing villages until the Russians started to build a railroad into this area in 1897. The Russians wanted a shortcut through this area.

Weather of Harbin

Harbin has very cold winters and warm summers. In January, the average high temperature is -13 degrees Celsius (8 degrees F) and the average low is about -25 degrees Celsius (-13 degrees F).

July is the hottest month. The average high temperature is 28 degrees Celsius (82 degrees F) and the average low is 18 degrees Celsius (65 degrees F).

Travel tips in Harbin

Harbin’s winters are extremely cold. In January the average temperatures range from –13 to –25 degrees Celsius or +10 to –10 degrees F. So dress in layers of clothes for warmth.
In Harbin and the rest of China, when you travel by taxi, make sure that the drivers turn the meter on or that you negotiate about the price beforehand. If you don’t, when you arrive, they will charge you their own prices. Also, carry small denomination bills, because you may be handed fake money if you try to get change.
From the airport or the train station, it is better to take a cab that is waiting in the official taxi waiting line to avoid problems.
If you go to the bars, be forewarned that Harbin bars have a reputation for lots of fighting. If a fight starts, it is best to leave quickly

Now book Harbin Ice and Snow Festival Tours and Harbin hotels to explore the great city.

What comes to mind when you think of typical Bermuda attractions? Basking in the sun on pristine beaches, cooling off in the crystal clear waters, shopping and taking in the local culture as you dine and bar hop your way into the early morning hours?

This is the common conception most vacationers have of Bermuda. But if you think this is all Bermuda has to offer, you couldn’t be further from the truth. You need insider information before you plan your next vacation to this island paradise.

Of course, you can’t go to Bermuda without experiencing the pristine beaches that make it one of the top tourist destinations in the world. Go ahead, scuba dive, snorkel, experience the sights of unforgettable marine life as you play on the beaches and in azure waters.

Chaplin Beach and Horseshoe Bay : There are just some of the wonderful beaches of Bermuda.

This areas offer great sites for scuba diving as well as snorkeling where you will get to see a variety of the marine creature of Bermuda. There are also wonderful yet affordable hotels dotting the beaches.

Bermuda’s golf and tennis courts : If you are a golf and a tennis enthusiast, then you will surely love Bermuda. Bermuda’s Mid-Ocean club is popular because of the challenges it offers, and this club offers seven courses of 18 holes each course. As for tennis courts, there are numerous in Bermuda that playing tennis will surely be a relaxing one for you because of the wonderful scenery they offer as well as the impeccable services.

Bermuda, a subtropical nation appropriate within the heart of North Atlantic Ocean, caters to visitors who wish to breathe and knowledge an eclectic mix of rich culture, peaceful scenery, and festive surroundings. Its ideal climate warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer months will certainly fascinate anyone who’s too tired with the extreme weather in various countries. Individuals mostly of African and European descent who are mindful of protocols and correct etiquette welcome vacationers warmly.

Just as the winter months are the coldest in the U.S., they are also coldest in Bermuda. The exception being their average winter low is only 60 degrees. Of course, with sea temperatures averaging in the mid-60s and obviously too cold for swimming, the weather is still mild enough for the many tourist attractions that Bermuda has to offer. There’s nothing like a mild winter day to enjoy strolling the cobbled streets of historic St. George, visiting centuries-old churches or touring the working lighthouses.

The city of Florence can well pass for the place with the greatest art in the world. Buildings are adorned in it, and this combined with the great architecture, make the initial statement well worth believing. So you have planned to visit the city and be part of its glory, then you need to have all the travel information that may help you make that necessary trip.

Amerigo Vespucci international airport is the one closest to the city, with the driving distance being about fifteen minutes, by bus or taxi in this case. If you opt for the bus, there is the Ataf Sita Vola in Bus service that costs 4.50 Euro one-way. It transports to the central train station that gives you access to the other major cities in Italy. The trains are fast and modern and they connect you to the rest of Italy and essentially Europe too.

To get into Florence via car the A-1 Autostrada is the best highway.

It connects to Bologna, Milan and even Rome. Driving around the city is somewhat complicate and if you happen to rent a car, be sure to ask about getting in and out of the city without violating the ZTL- these are rules. Once in the Piazzale Michelangelo, you can make the parking but only for a specified amount of time. You can pretty much walk from here on end since the distance to the heart of the city is not too long.

If you really want to appreciate the beauty of Florence, then you should prefer walking the distances to being driven around. The magic of the city is best captured when you are on foot. But if you like there are bike rental services courtesy of the city that can help you get around much faster while still getting to see all the architecture and works of art.

The historic center is a no-ride zone and any violation of this results in hefty fines. Getting around the city is not the easiest thing to do because of the arrangements of the streets and you will have some trouble doing your navigation if you are only depending on your eyes.

Outside the historical center is where most of the Italians go to it, and depending on how much you want to spend, there are several dishes for you to choose from. Your taste buds will have a kick as you get to taste the Italian food. If you are in the spirit of spending, then there are great restaurants that will help you do just that.

As for the hotels in Florence, the rule is that if you want to spend less, then you should stay away from the historical center. There are five star hotels but they can be expensive especially if you do not place reservations well in time. The other hotels away from the historical center are usually a tad far and you have to know where you want to stay in advance top avoid unnecessary headaches.

By inexhaustible source of blue skies in summer months and also snow capped rooftops winter months; Stockholm, Sweden’s capital is amazing. The actual picture is peppered with buildings of terracotta and saffron walls that dot the particular night with glimmering inviting lights.

Generally, you can realize the beauty of nature from every angle of Stockholm because there are lots and lots of rocky islands which revolve around it. At the Katarinahissen, you’ll be dealt with to a striking view of the cliffs. Have your dinner at Eriks Gondolen bar and restaurant if you’re unafraid of heights. Recognize the value of historic and culture scenes such as Riksdagshuset as well as the Liljevalchs Konsthall. The Riksdagshuset is a parliament building of Sweden where you will see pieces of art by Otte Skold, Axel Torneman and the tapesty woven by Elisabet Hasselberg Olsson labeled as Memory of a Landscape.

The Liljevalchs Konsthall is a great example of neo-classical buildings where you will be welcomed at the entrance by Carl Milles statues prior to visiting exhibitions of modern art. Open at this place in Feb to the middle of March is the Vasalongen Art Show as well.

A 1923 image palace, the Biografen Skandia is Stockholm’s adaptation of the Mann’s Chinese Theatre of LA. The Biografen Skandia carries a heavy blue shaded ceiling and a Pompeian rotunda in the reception. The Stockholm Public Library is also part of Sweden’s architecture. It has been attractively maintained and is still a work of art made by Erik Gunnar Asplund in 1924, and it is accented with many racks of books and art work by artists like Nils Dardel and Ivar Johnson. The actual cathedral of Strokyrkan that is definitely seven hundred years old was once a place for majestic wedding ceremonies and coronations, and a spectacular site to see.

Perform a “free fall” from Europe’s tallest theme park ride.

Fall from 80m within 2 seconds or try out the rest of the rides that are covered in your Grona Lund Tivoli ride coupon scheme. Check-out the Junibacken where clips from Astrid Lindgren’s kid’s publications come to life. Dress up just like Pippi Longstocking and have a journey across Stockholm in the flying Story Train.

Weather conditions: Stockholm’s summer weather ranges from 20 to twenty five degrees Celsius and is pretty mild even winter months. Bundle up with large amounts of heavy attire any time you tend to travel to Stockholm in January up to March plus be equipped with an umbrella in July to August.

Transportation: Travel all-around Stockholm simply by bus, car, and street bike and also train. Bus tickets can be bought at the Bus stop ticket office in the Cityterminalen that is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 on the weekdays. You’re able to hire a vehicle from Statoil or Avis that are near to the Central station. Trains also run to and from Stockholm where you can find the T-Centralen metro station. There are also boats and ferries to get to several spots such as Turku, Helsinki and Tallinn also.