All About the Plettenberg Bay in South Africa
The town of Plettenbergy Bay is situated almost on the edge of Eastern and Western Cape. Built on the hillside, most part of the town is located on a steep slope descending all the way into the sea. Once you are at the Plettenbergy Bay, you’ll be treated to the scintillating views of the bay and surrounding mountain ranges and hills. There are a numbers of upmarket resorts and hotels to self catering, to budget Bed & Breakfasts and accommodation here.
The Plettenberg Bay, once a quaint town, was visited by European explorers from Portugal and the UK. The remnants of the Gonzales Wreck in town; Old Rectory, constructed by the Dutch East India Trading Company in 1776 and Forest Hall, a stately home that was privately owned, established in 1864 by William Henry Newdgate stand tall to this day.
Popular tourist activities include yachting at the Keurbooms River mouth and marina and playing polo at Kurland. You can indulge yourself in water sports and swimming in the clear and serene waters. There are many pristine beaches worth a visit, and if you want to boost your adrenaline performance, there are a host of activities including hiking, charter boat cruises, abseiling and canoeing. Another popular attraction is the Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary, a one of its kind multi-species, free roaming primate sanctuary. You can also make a trip to the Witblits distillery and Mampoer.
Don’t go away, there’s lot more: you can take a short trip on the N2 moving towards Port Elizabeth, across the border into the Eastern Cape, and return to the Bloukrans Bridge. An engineering wonder, it is where the world’s highest commercial bungee jump site is located. Situated at 216 metres, it is not for everybody to take a plunge from the purpose-built observing platform bordering the gorge.
If you are done with the above activities, visit the Khoisan Village to take a glimpse of the lives of the indigenous peoples of the area, and enjoy buying local arts and crafts.
Everything you need to know about the Dolmen Circle in Kodaikanal
- Are you burned out and knackered this summer and wanted to take a breather? One of the best places in Tamilnadu to be this summer is the charming hill station of Kodaikanal that has about 40 tourist attractions. One of the lesser known places in Kodaikanal, though popular, is the Dolmen Circle.
- The Dolmen Circle is about 8km from Kodaikanal Lake and 18km from Berijam Lake. It is one of the most important places among anthropologists. A pre-historic site, the Dolmen Circle dates back to 5000 BC.
- This place is believed to be the dwelling place and burial site of the pre-historic man who belonged to the Iron Age and Stone Age. They are known as dolmens and Kistavens.
- Situated nearby the Parvatha Vihar and the Pannikadu village, the dolmen is raised out of two huge erect slabs covered by a huge flat slab.
- The sands of time brought destruction to several dolmens, so only two survive now. One is found at the Ghat Road near Periyakulam and another 2 km away from the hamlet of Pannaikadu.
- It is located on the highest point before you descend to Pattiveerampatti still standing rock-solid without significant damage.
- The place is the remains of pre-historic inhabitants in addition to models of dolmens and burial urns. The ruins and remains of the place can transport you right to the pre-historic living.
- Research also shows that these were used as hideout for the pre-historic man. It is also widely believed that this site served as a safe haven for people to hoard their valuables. Site excavations in the past unearthed several copper and brass ornaments in addition to the utensils. On the other hand, Kistavens were used as burial grounds.
All about the Itimad-ud-Daulah Tomb – The Baby Taj Mahal in Agra
- The Itimad-ud-Daulah Tomb in Agra is also known as the ‘Baby Taj Mahal’, a precursor to the Taj Mahal. It was constructed by Noor Jahan for her father Mirza Ghiyaz Beg or Itimad-Ud-Daulah or ‘the pillar of the state’.
- Built in the years 1662-1628, five years before Taj Mahal was built, it is worth a visit when you are done visiting the iconic structure of the Taj in Agra.
- The extensive use of intricate inlays and white marbles makes it unique in terms of design and architecture, although it’s smaller in size compared to the Taj.
- Many historians believe that Emperor Shahjahan wanted to build something more significant and on a much grander scale than the Itimad-ud-Daulah Tomb, and thus built the Taj Mahal later.
- It is also believed a family feud led to the building of Taj Mahal which actually overshadowed the splendour and grandeur of the ‘baby’ Taj Mahal.
- The inside of the Itimad-ud-Daulah Tomb was kept relative simple without any superfluous embellishment or ornate decorations in line with the principles of the religion of Islam.
- There are fake tombs or cenotaph above the ground that are partially decorated and on display for visitors. In comparison to the exterior decoration, the interiors are neither dour nor flamboyant but stick to the principles of simplicity.
- There are inlays and geometric patterns at every turn. The linings of the walls in every chamber and corridor are filled with colorful paintings.
- The Baby Taj is open on all days. Security is pretty much tight here. Food, large bags, water, drinks, video camera and other electronic gadget except a camera are strictly disallowed.
All about the Bryant Park in Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal is a popular hill station in the Palani Hills in Tamilnadu. One of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the state, Kodaikanal has a handful of places to explore at least once in your lifetime. Bryant Park, a famous botanical park, is located on the eastern side of Kodaikanal Lake. This place, in fact, has been a boon to Botany students and bliss to the general public for several decades. The park is full of flowers, and hybrids. You can also find cut flowers of export quality in the park. The park houses a wide range of flowers which makes it a popular hangout in the hill station.
The park, built-in 1908 by HD Bryant, a forest officer from Madurai, draws thousands of visitors during the month of May when the annual summer festival is conducted in the park. The show that is organized by the Department of Horticulture displays several types of flowers and vegetables that are sourced locally. With over 325 species of shrubs, trees, and cacti, the park organizes a flower expo contest to encourage exhibitors and growers.
Furthermore, the Bryant Park doubles up as a practical learning center and demonstration center for Ornamental Horticulture. Out here the students of Horticulture are taught advanced methods of pruning, training, grafting, budding, potting seed collection and several other techniques. The park is a great place to spend a few moments of solitude by distancing yourself from the hustle and bustle of everyday life amidst the lush greenery.
Bryant Park is a well-maintained park considering the sheer size of the park. There is a large area of the park dedicated to nearly 740 varieties of roses. You can also find a eucalyptus that dates back to 1857 and a Bodhi tree, adding to the religious sentiments of the public. There is a nursery that sells Ornamental plants. A glasshouse contains a broad range of ferns, flowers, and other ornamental plants. The entrance fee to the park is very nominal and is open all around the year for public view.
All you need to about the Khan Market in Delhi
The Khan Market is one of the most popular markets in the country’s capital with a rich culture and history of its own. This market, established in 1951, named after Khan Abdul Jabbar Khan’s brother of Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan, draws thousands of customers and shoppers almost every day. It has been continually named as one of the world’s most expensive high-end markets.
Constructed in a U-shape, the market space has a capacity for 74 flats and 154 shops. Furthermore, it served as the home for immigrants from the North Western Frontier Province after the country’s partition in 1947. These migrants set up the first shops and aptly named it after Khan, as he was instrumental in helping them settle down here providing them a new lease of life.
The market’s first floor served as the home to the shop owners even until the late 1908s. Actually, the market enclosed only middle-class shops, brands, outlets, and neighborhood grocery shops in the beginning. With the turn of time, it primarily served the upmarket clients from Golf Links and other neighboring societies. And when many shop owners saw good business potential, they started shifting out of their houses in Khan Market.
Today, Khan Market is found to be one of the costliest commercial real estate locations in the country’s capital. Further, in 2011, as per a Cushman & Wakefield ranking report, Khan Market was rated as the 21st costliest shopping market in the world.
Are you ready for an adventure date with Turkey with us?
Turkey is the land of the rise and fall of mighty empires; it is also the land of diverse religions and cultures. It also played host to some of the most fascinating world events. From ancient cultures, a true European lifestyle, Sufi spiritual lodges, abandoned monasteries, massively built domes to mosque tombs, Turkey has it all. Anybody looking to explore the composite European culture should first visit Turkey before visiting the UK, Sweden or any other European nation. Though Turkey has about 80 tourist destinations, it pays to visit a handful of touring places in the country.
Turkey is also the land of food. From ice-cream, Falooda to exotic Briyani dishes, Turkey is the place to be if you are a hardcore foodie. The most popular Ottoman delicacy is göğsü or chicken breast pudding. So what are the other things that may stimulate you to make a trip to Turkey?
Turkey has some of the world’s oldest and biggest malls including the Grand Bazaar or Kapalı Çarşı in Istanbul. Do you know that there are 13 touring destinations in Turkey that are already on the UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites and another 62 on the probable list? Also, Turkey currently ranks sixth in the most popular tourist destination in the world. It is believed that most biblical figures including Abraham and Noah were born in ancient Turkey.
Turkey believes in eco-tourism and has invested a lot in preserving its precious natural resources including the endangered loggerhead sea turtle. The first tulips were grown in Turkey.
Turkey has some of the most fascinating mountain ranges including the Erzurum, the country’s highest at 10,200 feet. Want to travel to Asia from Europe underground? Turkey is the home to the Marmaray metro line opened in 2013 that connects the two important continents underground. Whilst Turkey is an Islamic country, it draws millions of Christian pilgrims that travel here to visit iconic churches and worship houses.
Don’t miss out on watching oil wrestling and bull wresting on your tour here. Turkey has some of the world’s ancient temples built almost 2000 years ago. The Turkey film industry is one of the best in Europe. You can watch a few Turkish films in the local theatres to understand the country’s tradition and culture better. Tour Turkey in all its entirety and glory only with Emperor Traveline!
Emperor Traveline steps into the 41st year of Customer service
A big shout of gratitude to all customers for helping us step into the 41st year of service. We couldn’t have achieved anything without your incredible support and continuing patronage. We are all geared up to offer even more superior service to all our customers as we understand them the best.
From tour packages to exotic touring destinations local, domestic and abroad in different segments including corporate, education, family, honeymoon, pilgrimage, and adventure to flight and train ticket reservation to Passport & Visa services, Money transfer, Overseas Insurance, and Overseas SIM card services, our range of service is diverse as much as challenging. At a time when technology was sparse, Emperor Traveline romped up its infrastructure to deliver the best travel booking and related services to our esteemed customers.
When we started off there were not many computer applications, let alone software, tools, and modern-day apps. We carved a route for ourselves in the area of travel services and soon other agencies followed suit. The fact that we were able to expand to Chennai and Hyderabad from Coimbatore early on speaks volumes of our growth.
Emperor Traveline has partnered with other travel service providers and organizations including SIGTOA, TAFI, SKAL, Western Union Money Transfer, Ministry of Tourism (GOI), ATTOI, OTOAI, IATA, ATO, ADTOI, TAAC, Tamilnadu Travel Mart Society, TAAI, Incredible India and many others.
A hallmark of our service is the timely execution of travel bookings and seamless processing of customer orders. We have also gone the extra mile in almost every occasion to bring a smile to our customers. Our customer’s satisfaction is the foundation upon which we have built our business. And as we continue to deliver extraordinary service to our customers, we once again express our sincere gratitude to all our customers. Also, kindly let us know how we can improve our existing customer service further as this will enable us to better our offerings.
All about the Pagoda Point at Yercaud, TamilNadu
Yercaud is a popular hill station next only to Ooty and Kodaikanal in Tamilnadu. Yercaud located in the district of Salem has a handful of tourist destinations that are frequented by both locals as well as tourists, both domestic and overseas. Pagoda Point aka Pyramid Point is a viewpoint situated on the eastern side of Yercaud Hills. It is believed to be constructed by the local tribes. This place also has a Rama Temple now built between the stones.
The name of the place is derived from the hill tribes when four piles of random stones were placed in the form of a Pagoda or Pyramid reportedly to observe some community events. You can also take a panoramic view of Ayodhaypattanam and Attur from this spot. It is situated at a distance of 5km from the town of Yercaud. If you are an amateur or someone obsessed with taking selfies, then this is the place to be. Get a good view of the city of Salem and a little hamlet called Kakambadi from the hilltop. This spot also features towering cliffs delighting many a rock climber and daring trekkers. About the ridges of the crest, you’d be able to find four cairn stones that resemble temple towers (or Pagodas).
There is also a shrine held sacrilegious by the loyal Malayalis, built of two anionic stones in the center of the open space. One can also view all the 21 hairpin bends of Yercaud swirling and wriggling through the hills from this point. Though there are transportation facilities, local busses are few to get here; therefore, you can trek through the lush green estates to reach the Pagoda Point. You can thoroughly enjoy the gorgeous view of the cliffs all from a single point, particularly in the early mornings and when the sun goes down.
What are the best places to do shopping in Malaysia?
When you are shopping in Malaysia, you’ll be inundated with a plethora of options ranging from electronics to fashion. It’s still fine even when all you wanted to do is window shopping. Malaysia is a happening place for luxury brands, street style shops, local goods sold in flea markets where you can find slashed prices for everything. And there is Langkawi that can pull in any shop alcoholic with duty-free shopping. Other top tourist destinations include Cameron Highlands and Kuala Lumpur. Here are some of Malaysia’s top shopping markets and what you’ll be happy buying from each of them.
1. Petaling Street:
Street shopping in Kuala Lumpur lending a Chinese touch. Specialties here at Petaling Street include bag tags, apparel and colorful artificial flowers, electronics among others.
2. Central Market in Kuala Lumpur:
Located in Kuala Lumpur, the Central Market is the best place to check handicrafts, Souvenirs, bags and fashion accessories.
3. Suria KLCC:
Another shopping mall in the Petronas Towers housing all the luxury brands including Salvatore Ferragamo, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Marc Jacobs, you can look for fashion apparel, footwear, bags, and other accessories.
4. Pavilion Kuala Lumpur:
Located at Bukit Bintang District in Kuala Lumpur, the Pavilion KL is a Mecca for shoppers where you can check out garments and related fashion accessories.
5. Berjaya Times Square:
Considered to be one of the world’s biggest shopping malls, the Berjaya Times Square Mall has everything for you to pamper and spoil yourself. Must-check out items here include candies, cosmetics, footwear, and apparel.
6. Langkawi Parade:
One of the largest malls in Langkawi, it houses fashion products, souvenirs, electronics, and even liquor all at duty-free prices.
7. Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall:
With over 100 retail outlets, the duty-free Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall gives you handicrafts, souvenirs, and apparel sourced from some of the best brands without burning a hole in your pocket.
8. The Zon Shopping Paradise:
The Zon Shopping Paradise in Langkawi is located next to the popular Underwater World. Things to check out here include perfumes and liquors at prices ten to forty percent lesser compared to other shopping malls.
9. Cameron Highlands:
Cameron Square, one of Cameron Highland’s most popular shopping destinations, is great for shopping souvenirs, mobile gadgets, and apparel.
10. Central Market:
Known as the “Jewel of Kedah”, the Central Market of Cameron Highland is known for housing quality local produce, tea, strawberries, flowers and handicraft by skilled local artisans.
A walk down the Zurich’s Old Town for world famous Swiss Chocolate & Sweets
Do you have a sweet tooth or a penchant for having nothing short of the best chocolates in the world? Make no mistake. The Swiss-made chocolates are simply unrivaled ever since chocolates became commercially available. But do you know of the quaint small town that makes these world-famous chocolates? The town of Zurich overflows with shops both large and small that make and sells homemade ice creams, truffles, hot chocolates and the popular Swiss chocolate bars for more than a century.
Take a stroll along the pristine streets and cobblestone lanes of Old Town or Altstadt with the help of a local guide who is usually an old hand in the town’s artisanal shops and confectionaries the country is known for. You can spoil yourself relishing its range of yummy treats for an enjoyable afternoon. In addition, you can take a well-directed crash course in the history of Swiss chocolate from none other than the local guides themselves. Become chocolate tasting pro sampling nougat, bars, truffles and pralines at neatly lined-stores.
If you aren’t still satisfied, talk to the shop owners who would be enthused to share their passion for Swiss-made chocolates their story-telling abilities would enthrall you. Whilst you take delight in single-origin chocolates, explore the history of the cacao bean. Don’t miss out on enjoying a specially-made hot chocolate at one of Zurich’s earliest confectionary including pralines, nougats, cupcakes, homemade ice-cream and pastries whichever shop you step into.
After you’re done trying out a tempting range of charming self-indulgent sweets, you can wind up for the day at Rathaus (Town Hall) by sundown.
