Visiting Historical Places and Attractions in Varkala

Looking out across the Arabian Sea, the coastal town of Varkala is located in the Indian state of Kerala and is an ideal holiday destination for those looking to experience some of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. Situated around 50 kilometres from Thiruvananthapuram, Varkala is blessed with scenic beaches as well as several historical places worth visiting.

One such historical attraction is the Janardhana Temple which can be found near the famous Papanasam beach. Believed to be over 2,000 years old, this ancient temple is mentioned in such sacred Hindu texts as the Skanda Purana and the Brahmananda Purana and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu who also possessed the name of “Janardhana”. Visitors to this historic and religious site will find fine examples of traditional local architecture as well as such features as a banyan tree with images on its trunk and intricate rooftop carvings. While those who are not Hindus cannot enter the inner sanctum of the temple, they are permitted to walk around the site.

The Janardhana Temple is also the venue for the Arattu Festival, held annually between the months of March and April. Drawing thousands of followers and visitors each year, this colourful festival is known for its lively processions which include parading elephants in gold coloured decorations.

Anjengo Fort is another historical place in Varkala and one which can be found around 36 kilometres away from Thiruvananthapuram. Once a stronghold of the Dutch East India Company, the fort was later taken over by the British and used as part of the English East India Company. Situated near the sea and within easy reach of Varkala town, the remnants of this once great fort has been declared a National Heritage Monument and is home to an old cemetery which has burial plots dating as far back as 1704.

Other places of interest that have some historical significance include the 924 foot long Varkala Tunnel that was constructed over a century ago and the Sivagiri Mutt that houses the burial vault of the famous Sri Narayana Guru.

Travellers looking for a quiet coastal getaway can stay in Varkala hotels that are located near the beach. Ideal for those planning to do some Varkala sightseeing, The Gateway Hotel Janardhanapuram Varkala overlooks the Arabian Sea and is within easy reach of such historical places as the Janardhana Temple.

Exploring the Picturesque Gardens and Parks in Jodhpur

Located in Rajasthan, Jodhpur is also referred to as the “Blue City” and offers visitors a chance to enjoy the city’s rich natural landscapes. Established by Rao Jodha in the mid 15th century, the city is separated into two sections, namely the “old city” which can be found within a 10 km long walled area and the “new city” which is outside of it.

Jodhpur is known for its stunning natural gardens and parks that offer an idyllic setting in which to enjoy some peace and tranquillity with family and friends. Some of these gardens are also home to historic and religious monuments which give one a chance to learn about the rich culture of the region as well.

One such attraction is Mandore Garden which is believed to have been around even during the time of the Ramayana. Situated north of Jodhpur, this lush garden is around 8 kilometres away and is steeped in history as well. Apart from the towering red sandstone cenotaphs or monuments built for those who formerly ruled the city, other places of interest one will find here include the “Hall of Heroes” which pays homage to ancient Hindu deities and the “shrine of the 330 million Gods” with its colourful illustrations.

Located on a land covering around 82 acres, Umed Garden is another of the city’s popular green areas. Named after Maharaja Umed Singh and set amidst quiet greenery, this verdant garden is also home to a zoo, an aviary and even a museum, making it an ideal spot for a family excursion.

Also worth visiting is the Nehru Park that is spread out across a 14 acre area. Specifically made with children in mind, this picturesque park was opened in 1966 and is a great place for kids to have some fun. Visitors can also use Jodhpur as a base from which to head to Machiya Safari Park where one can see such animals as wild cats, desert foxes and monkeys.

Travellers planning a trip to the region can stay in a Jodhpur hotel which one can find in and around the city. Those wanting to do some Jodhpur sightseeing can use The Gateway Hotel Jodhpur as a base from which to explore the city including its gardens and parks.

Discovering Idyllic Coastal Getaways at Visakhapatnam Beaches

Nestled along the picturesque coast of the Bay of Bengal, Visakhapatnam or “Vizag” offers travellers an idyllic getaway in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Blessed with pristine beaches and scenic landscapes, this city is a popular seaside destination where one can just sit back, soak up the sun and watch the world go slowly by.

A major port city, Visakhapatnam is home to around 1.3 million people and is encircled by three hills named Dargah Konda, Venkateswara Konda and Rose hill. Each of these hills has a shrine or temple on them, dedicated to a particular religion. In fact, according to local legend, the city itself is named after the God of valour, Visakha.

Those visiting Visakhapatnam to experience its famous beaches can start their holiday at the Rama Krishna Beach, which is also known by locals as RK Beach. Situated within easy reach of the city centre, this tranquil east coast shoreline is a great place to have a picnic with the family amidst cool ocean breezes or take a romantic stroll with a loved one at sunset. The Rama Krishna Beach also provides visitors with relatively easy access to such attractions as the Submarine Museum, the Visakha Museum and VUDA Park.

Another popular coastal area is Rishikonda Beach with its pure golden sand that stretches out along the shore, giving visitors a chance to bask in the sun and enjoy the view. Situated near some picturesque green hills, this picture postcard type beach is a good spot from which to go swimming and is also a place where one can find such water sports as wind surfing and water skiing.

While the RK and Rishikonda beaches are two of the most popular seaside areas, Visakhapatnam is also home to such beaches as Ramakrishna Mission, Lawson’s Bay, Bheemunipatnam, Yarada and Gangavaram which each provide visitors with a relaxing day by the sea.

Travellers in search of accommodation in and around the city will find many Visakhapatnam hotels that one can stay in. Ideal for those planning to travel to Andhra Pradesh and visit this charming coastal area, The Gateway Hotel Beach Road Visakhapatnam enjoys a peaceful seaside location, looking out across to the Bay of Bengal.

The Boston Children’s Museum – Creating a Love of Learning

In a world where children and young adults have little choice but to follow rigid education structures, from pre-school right up to undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes, learning is rarely considered fun. With the heavy load of writing assignments and dull textbooks, children are easily turned off by the idea of learning more about the world around them. With the growing demands of current job markets for highly-qualified individuals, it is impossible to create an informal learning environment in the classrooms of schools. But with a little imagination, innovation and passion for educating the young, learning can be made exciting and colourful. This is exactly what the Boston Children’s Museum set out to do in 1913.

Incepted by a group of progressive educators to “encourage imagination, curiosity, investigation, innovation and play”, the Boston Children’s Museum allows children as well as adults to nurture a deeper understanding of the world they live in. The museum’s various exhibits cover a wide range of subjects, from nature and science to history to the arts and provide young children a hands-on learning experience. The museum carries out many different educational programmes and activities that help children experiment and learn with independence. World-class exhibitions that are powerful and visually-stunning are successful in grabbing children’s attention towards the learning of the exhibit’s related subjects. The museum is also home to a collection of over 50,000 objects of historical and cultural importance.

The various exhibits that are made available to children at the museum cover many subjects, including science, culture, environmental awareness, health and fitness, and the arts. Some of the museum’s most-popular permanent exhibits include Arthur & Friends, Art Studio, The Common, Global Gallery, Japanese House, KidStage, PlayLab, The Recycle Shop and the Science Playground. Children can also have some great fun on the museum’s light-up dance floor. In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum also hosts many informative and fun-filled events to promote international understanding and knowledge of history and global arts and culture.

If you are visiting Boston with your family, the Children’s Museum is a must-stop, especially if you are an adult who is up for learning exciting new things. Any luxury hotel chain in the world has a hotel in Boston, and you will find luxurious accommodation just minutes away from the museum. The Langham Brand is a hotel that is a part of a grand international hotel group , and will make your family’s visit to Boston enjoyable with its world-class hospitality and facilities.

Wat Pho, Temple of the Reclining Buddha – The gigantic statue resonates as an…

One of South East Asia’s more popular destinations, Thailand provides visitors with a variety of sightseeing options. A country rich in history, culture and traditions, this land of smiles welcomes visitors to its stunning beaches, abundant food and entertainment choices and above all ancient palaces, temples and other sites of historical importance.

The country’s busy capital Bangkok is a hive of activity with enumerable avenues for shopping and nightlife. Its many monuments and interesting sights including floating markets and theme parks will leave travellers spoilt for choice in catering to their leisure and entertainment needs.

Bangkok holds an impressive display of attractions for visitors. Among them are the Grand Palace, the National Museum, the many exquisite temples such as the Emerald Buddha and the Temple of the Dawn, Chinatown and the many other sites and venues of cultural and historical importance.

A famous landmark in the capital is the Wat Pho. Housing the largest statue of the reclining Buddha this Wat covers over six acres and dates back over 200 years since it was first constructed. Its dimensions are impressive and lie at 46 meters long and over 15 meters in height. This gold plated sculpture is also engraved with semi-precious jewels.

The vast areas which house this figurine also contain over 1000 other images of the Buddha. Among those housed are images and slabs from pre-historic ruins located around the capital. The property also comprises of a large temple hall, rock gardens, chapels, other statues, bell-towers and a remarkably equipped library.

In addition to the Buddhist influence found on these hallowed grounds, the Wat Pho is also renowned for its proficiency in offering traditional Thai massage. Herbal massages as well as foot reflexology are other options available for those seeking therapeutic rejuvenation. For visitors seeking to learn this unique technique, the Wat offers courses which provide instruction in the traditional massage form.

A luxury hotel in Bangkok which offers superlative accommodation options is The Peninsula Bangkok. This Bangkok hotel provides expansive rooms with stunning views of the bustling metropolis. An impressive array of leisure and cuisine options will inspire visitors even extend their sojourn.

Up close and personal at the Butterfly Creek

The city of Auckland is located on New Zealand’s North Island. It is also the largest and most populous city in the country, being home to more than 30 percent of the nation’s population. Due to its pleasing climate and the wonderful people that l, the city has consistently been recognized as one of the finest cities in the world. For travellers that come here, it is no different as the city of Auckland has many surprises in store to truly deliver an unforgettable stay.

Among its many attractions is Butterfly Creek, which is located on Tom Pearce Drive just a short distance from the International Airport. It boasts of having the best tropical butterfly house in the region. A claim which is instantly justified upon visiting Butterfly Creek as it houses more than 750 free flying specimens. Most of them are from South America though butterflies from other parts of the world are also represented.

Another attraction that should definitely be seen by visitors is the crocodile enclosure, as this is the only place in New Zealand where Aussie Saltwater crocodile can be seen. Scar and Goldie are two crocs brought here from a crocodile farm in Australia in the year 2009, since when it has been one of the most popular enclosures here. The South American cousin of the crocodile can also been seen here while the alligator enclosure is home to five baby American alligators. Visitors are allowed to touch and pet these but however they will reach their adult size of 4m in a short time period certainly won’t be cute anymore!

Butterfly Creek is filled with many such enclosures such as the favourite Aquarium which holds over 9 tons of water and countless species of fish. Incidentally this is also the largest freshwater aquarium in the country. Also be sure to visit Buttermilk Farm which is a hit among kids as they are allowed to pet common farmyard animals such as rabbits, donkeys, sheep, goats and pigs. Not to mention Mogsy the trusty sheepdog.

Located within easy access of hotels in Auckland NZ such as the The Langham Auckland, Butterfly Creek will be an excellent day out for the family. A luxury Auckland hotel such as this promises a comfortable stay for your whole family.

Yuyuan Garden – China’s fascinating 400 year old garden

Covering an area of 5 acres, the Yuyuan Gardens in Shanghai was finely and thoughtfully constructed to evoke pleasure. Pan Yuduan, the son of a high ranking officer in the Ming Dynasty spent close to 20 years of his life creating and perfecting the garden for his father to enjoy during his old age. It was finally completed in 1577.

Due to the various sieges and occupations that China went through, the garden fell to disrepair and neglect until finally taken under the wings first of some rich merchants and finally of the Shanghai government and restored to its original beauty in 1956. It was opened to the public in 1961.

The garden has been designated into 6 separate areas each featuring a new aspect in architectural and landscaping beauty. The entrance to the gardens is dominated by what is known as the Great Rockery, the oldest of its kind in the Southern region, with a height of 50 feet. From the top of rockery tourists can catch a bird’s eye view of the entire garden. Curios and mementos can be purchased at the Cuixiu Hall at the bottom of the rockery.

Sansui Hall comprises 5 halls and was originally used for entertainment purposes. It is the largest structure in the garden. The Wanhua Chamber and Yule Pavilion offer a series of courtyards, streams, and corridors which are exquisitely built and are pleasing to the eye. Opposite Wanhua are two old trees, one of which is a 70 foot high maidenhair tree believed to have been planted by the garden’s original creator.

The garden plays host to a myriad of other halls and structures but the most spectacular however is what is known as the jade rock that stands at almost 11 feet and has 72 holes. A joss stick lit at the bottom of the rock will cause the smoke to pour out of the holes. Water poured onto the rock will spread out through the holes as well giving it a unique sprinkler effect.

Visitors looking for a Shanghai hotel in order to base themselves during their visit should consider a luxury hotel Shanghai such as The Peninsula Shanghai with its state of the art facilities and ideal location.

Classical Music Masterpieces at the Shanghai Concert Hall

A great place to immerse oneself in some culture and music when visiting mainland China, the Shanghai Concert Hall is one of the country’s foremost performance venues. Originally built in 1930 and initially known as the Nanking Theatre, this striking venue plays host to a variety of classical musicians and orchestras from around the world.

This immense building was relocated in its entirety from its original location in an ambitious project carried out by the Chinese government in order to keep this historical structure intact. A part of the city’s reconstruction project, the concert hall was physically hoisted and slowly but surely moved to its new location which took around one year to complete.

At its new home, the concert hall has over a 1,200 seating capacity as well as a large main performance area. More than just a functional venue, this impressive hall was built using a western classical style of architecture by its two main Chinese designers, Zhao Shen and Fan Wenzhao. Those venturing inside will find such striking aspects as huge pillars made out of marble, a winding staircase, a classically structured vault, an auditorium spanning 2 floors and a host of intricate and ornate designs and fixtures that lend to the aura of refinement and sophistication.

Apart from taking in the building’s exterior and interior design, visitors can also attend one of the many performances that take place at this venue throughout the year. Known for its remarkable acoustics, the Shanghai Concert Hall attracts a wide range of local and international musicians and performers showcasing everything from classical music to jazz. Also used as a venue for music festivals, this concert hall has attracted such celebrated classical artists as Yo-Yo Ma, Isaac Stern, Pinchas Zukerman, Perlman, Jian Wang and Misha Maisky. The Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, the Shanghai Opera and the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra are also known to give performances here.

Those looking for a memorable holiday when visiting China can stay in a luxury hotel Shanghai that provides one with refined accommodation options that cater to both business and leisure travellers. Such a luxury Shanghai hotel is The Peninsula Shanghai that offers a wealth of upscale facilities and services to the discerning traveller.

Discover Malè – The Heart of Maldives

Maldives is a geological wonder, a chain of islands made of coral. Blessed with amazing beaches, cobalt blue waters and sunsets right out of picture postcards, Maldives was always meant to be an island getaway. A retreat from the humdrum routine of daily life, an escape from the drab confines of the big city; it is a role that the island nation has played well, aided by the warm hospitality of the local citizens.

No city is as quintessentially the Maldives like the capital Malè. Malè is an urban city, but with islander roots. The frenzied pace of the city is offset by the laidback lifestyle of a beach town. The local hospitality is legendary, and it makes it much easier to get to know the city. Tourists can spend days looking at all the sights, and exploring all the fascinating experiences on offer.

Those interested in the country’s rich history will find Hukuru Miskiyy an apt place to start with. Built in the 17th century, it served as the main mosque for almost four centuries. From the intricately fluted coral block walls to the finely carved panels of Arabic writing, the mosque is a showcase of fine Maldivian craftsmanship. Adjacent to the mosque is the Mulee-aage. The palace was built in 1906 and now serves as the official residence of the President. The National Museum is housed in the sole remnant of the Sultan’s Palace, and contains many exhibits of cultural and historical value.

Visitors on the lookout for souvenirs can try the northern end of Chaandhanee Magu. On sale here are a slew of products, including clothes, traditional crafts as well as electronics. Dining in Malè is an exquisite experience. Accustomed to a global clientele, the restaurants serve food from all parts of the world, but the real treats are the local delicacies. As for a good Maldives island resort, try the Velassaru Maldives. This Maldives luxury resort offers elegant accommodation and excellent dining, and is the ideal place to stay for tourists looking for a quiet and relaxing vacation. The resort gives residents access to the best that Malè has to offer.

Central Park – A Sanctuary In A City That Never Sleeps

Among the top locations in the world that people visit is the United States of America. It is a country that offers a multitude of attractions and activities for all ages and is also rich in natural beauty. Stunning scenery which includes unmatched beachfront views, verdant rainforests and rugged mountain ranges mingle with developed rural and urban locales.

Known by most as a bustling city that never sleeps is the metropolis of New York in the United States. Popularly called the Big Apple, it is home to numerous landmarks and attractions. Not to be missed is a visit to Times Square and viewing the scenery from one of the tallest skyscrapers known as the Empire State Building. The Statue of Liberty which symbolizes American independence is another attraction worth visiting.

An oasis in New York City is the Central Park area. Covering over 800 acres of real estate, these grounds provide a sanctuary from the bustle of urban life. Visitors will be amazed at the range of attractions one will find here. Riding a carousel that features intricate figures, enjoying a picnic on the lawn, rowing a boat around the park’s lake or simply experiencing a concert hosted in the gardens are a few of the many activities that captivate those who visit Central Park.

Also worth visiting when in the area is the Central Park Zoo which is a great family attraction in New York. Run under the management of the Wildlife Conservation Society and featured in the hit animated movie “”Madagascar”, this small zoo has a variety of sections that offer hours of fun including the “Polar Circle” which is home to a polar bear and the ever popular penguins, the “Allison Maher Stern Snow Leopard Exhibit”, the “Temperate Territory” with its red panda and the “Tisch Children’s Zoo” where children can walk along a small nature trail and interact with such barnyard animals as sheep and goats.

Visitors seeking local arts and entertainment can enjoy outings to the Rockefeller Center for dining and shopping as well as to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History. Journeying through the famous New York subway or taking a ride on the ferry also offers a memorable experience on city life in the Big Apple.

In addition to being a reputed New York Hotel, The Peninsula New York is also considered one of the city’s landmarks. This luxury hotel New York offers stylish comfort in opulent surroundings proving to be a sure winner with both the business and leisure traveller.