All you need to know about the Shitennō-ji Temple in Osaka, Japan
- If you visit the Tennoji area, you shouldn’t miss out on seeing the Shitenno-Ji Temple at Tennoji-Koen Park in Osaka.
- Though the concrete reconstructions may present a different story altogether, this Buddhist temple is one of the oldest in the country.
- If you’re looking to revive your spiritual vibes, then the Shitenno-Ji Temple is the place to be.
- This temple, which dates back to 593AD, lies a tad north-east of JR Tennoji Station and nearby the Shitennoji-Mae Yuhigaoka Station on the Tanimachi subway line.
- The temple underwent concrete reconstructions after it was ravaged by the wars.
- All said it is still a quaint place to hang out and establish spiritual connect with the divine power.
- There’s a lot that this place has to offer. You can view the outer temple grounds, besides the inner precincts that house a lovely garden, a pagoda, and a treasure house.
- The design of the garden was inspired by the description of Amitabha, identified as the Buddha of the Western Paradise, and differs strikingly from the urban landscape of Osaka.
- It is stunningly beautiful and worth every cent visiting the place during spring when the entire cherry blossom flutter to the cool breeze. The rest of Tennoji-Koen park is also a visual treat.
- If you’re someone who loves trying your luck out in antique fair or flea markets, then you are in the right place!
- Shitenno-Ji puts up large antique fairs or flea markets on the 21st and 22nd of every month and houses about 300 stalls selling pre-loved antiques, clothes, old kimonos, and handicrafts. If you’re hooked to something old or antique, you won’t be disappointed here. You can go for some takoyaki and immerse yourself in the usually vivacious atmosphere here.
All about the Rotorua on New Zealand’s North Island
Rotorua is famous for bubbling mud pools, natural hot springs and shooting geysers, a true reflection of the fabulous Māori culture
- Rotorua is famous for bubbling mud pools, natural hot springs and shooting geysers, a true reflection of the fabulous Māori culture.
- It is a land of truly enchanting forests and dazzling streams, thermal mud pools and adventurous biking trails.
- The city provides a potpourri of experiences and attractions, one for everyone—from the casual traveler to the hardcore adventure-seeker.
- The popular Pacific Rim of Fire is a geothermal marvel with hot springs, clouds of steam and mudpot for a relaxing bath.
- If reveling at the sight of the unique landscapes and volcanic eruptions all inside a geothermal park isn’t enough, you can take a dip in a natural hot stream or spoil yourself in a local wellness retreat.
- Next, purge your hunger pan with a Maori cultural style hangi feast cooked in the simmering ground or experience the mild vivacity of a pre-European village.
- Or make a perfect date with nature: the city has 18 freshwater lakes and several rivers, peaks and native forests; it’s your call.
- Rotorua is a cut above the rest when it comes to world-class mountain biking trails.
- Horse riding, walking, fishing and swimming in the rivers and lakes offer an instant connect with nature and wildlife, and also help unravel some of the hidden mysteries of the region.
- There’s also a large trout fishing area that allows fishing on the tributaries and lakes. Lucky for you if you can get to see big trout at the Fairy Springs and Rainbow, though not quite catch them.
- If your adrenaline switch turns on, indulge in extreme sports ranging from bungy jumping and luging to ziplining and zorbing. Not to mention that Rotorua has the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, the Tutea Falls.
- There are a range of activities for kids including wildlife and leisure parks around the region.
- Rotorua has you food and drink needs well covered in Eat Streat, one of the coolest hot spots in the city having major restaurants, cafés, bars and craft markets, with enhanced lighting and thermally heated footpath.
- As Rotorua is situated in the heart of the North Island, it is easy to reach Mt Ruapehu ski fields (under two hours travel time) and the nearest beach town in no more than an hour.
Tour around Turgen Waterfalls in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is a treasure of ice-capped mountain peaks, shining glaciers, susurrate rivers, evergreen forests, giant rocky canyons painted vibrantly by emerald mountain lakes, vivid rainbows, elegiac sunrises, and unique flora and fauna.
The Turgen Gorge in the Ili-Alatau National Park is 90 km from Almaty and blessed with abundant bounties of nature. The gorge has hot wells, a trout farm, cascades and thick forests. Full of coniferous and assorted trees, apine and sub-alpine bawns, springs and lakes, herbs and berries of medicinal value, the gorge descends 44 km into the expanse of Assy plateau (2,560m). In the bygone days, caravans from Asia and Europe crossed the Royal Gates en route to India and China. The broad valley extends 60 km east.
Wonders of Turgen in Kazakhstan
The Turgen Gorge is famous for its seven waterfalls: the Medvezhy (Bear) falls has a drop of 30 m flanked by massive cliffs and green fir trees; the Bozgul Falls is known for the sheer might of the water as it washes away an entire tunnel in the solid rough rocks. Another major attraction of the gorge is the earliest Chin Chin-Turgen mossy fir forests, which form a thick vegetation cover with a dense layer of trees.
A must-visit spot in the Turgen Gorge is Boten, the hunting base. The very place of the confluence of three rivers is the deepest point of the gorge – 920 meters. While the Kishi-Turgen flows southeast, the Turgen River runs southwest. The plateau also has an observatory. Prehistoric burial mounds and rock drawings are found along the River Asy. Also dotted are several Sacae and Usun graves in the gorge belonging to the period between 500 BC and 300 AD.
There are a couple of resorts located around the natural hot springs that discharge into the swift-flowing Turgen River. The Sinegorye, found at an altitude of 1500m above sea level in the picturesque Mirushino gorge (which is about 70 km from Almaty), gives you a wide choice of accommodations. The small mountain lakes above the Sinegorye offer good possibilities to fish and bathe; the lower down, a trout farm, allows you to test your fishing skills, and maybe catch a few fish if you’re lucky, for supper.
Things to do in Zakynthos – Zakynthos Party Island
Zakynthos or Zante, home to a wealth of natural wonders, is an ideal holiday spot. There are a lot of things to do in this “Green Island”. Here are some of the activities you can indulge in while holidaying in Zakynthos.
Book a Boat trip
The island is famous for its Blue Caves. They were discovered in 1897 by Antonio Komouto. Inside the caves, you will find the stunning turquoise water, hence the name. You can take a boat ride to the caves, situated just under the lighthouse. To give you a great view of the marine life below, the boats are glass-bottomed.
Visit Navagio Bay
Navagio Bay is also known as the Smugglers’ Cove and Shipwreck Bay. In the whole of Greece, this is one of the most beautiful beaches situated near the charming Volimes, a mountain village.
Head to Zante Town
In the 1953 earthquake, many of the buildings in Zante Town were destroyed. They were later rebuilt in traditional Venetian style. The quaint town has lovely squares and pretty paved streets. The church of Aghios Dionysios, where Zakynthos’ patron saint is buried, is a must-visit. The town has a flourishing art scene as well.
Bask in the sunset
At the tiny village of Kampi, watch the stunning view of the sun disappearing into the sea from the peak of the cliff. You’ll come across the Shiva cross on the cliff, which is around 300m above sea level. It is the Greek Civil War memorial.
Visit the beautiful islet of Marathonisi
The islet of Marathonisi, the nesting homes of the famed Greek loggerhead turtles, is situated in the middle of the Laganas Bay. You can take a boat to reach this beautiful islet, which is shaped like a turtle.
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Sunbathe at Gerakas beach
The beautiful beach of Gerakas is home to the Sea Turtle and Wildlife Information Centre. The wildlife of Zante and its rich heritage are looked after by this centre. It also works to protect the turtles from extinction.
Indulge in some water sports
At St Nicholas Bay on the south of the island, you can enjoy water sports. From ringo rides to banana boats and paragliding, and canoeing, you’ll find everything here. There are also plenty of bars next to the beach to quench your thirst.
Go scuba diving
One of the best locations for scuba diving is Zante. ‘Lobster claw’ peninsula, which lies to the east of the island, offers great conditions for diving. At the beautiful Keri Caves, you can also take diving lessons.
Sightseeing in Zakynthos
A visit to the small village of Anafonitria is a must-visit for those who love history and architecture. The Byzantine monastery built in the 15th century is a study in architecture. It is built in honour of the Virgin Mary. Zante’s patron saint, Agios Dionysios, spent his last years here.
Take an adventurous safari
To uncover the island’s hidden gems, a safari will be just right. It will take you from the coast into the heart of Zante. The drivers usually double up as guides, showing you places you would miss otherwise.
Things to do in Budapest
Budapest is a favourite tourist haunt. There is a lot to see and do in this historic city. Savour the local cuisine, take a dip in one of the city’s famous baths, check out some of the cool shops featuring local designs, or just sit and people-watch at one of the great downtown cafés.
Your travel agency will be able to guide you on your Budapest tour. Here are some of the things you must do while visiting Budapest.
Visit Széchenyi Baths
A visit to the thermal baths, one of the last leftovers of the Turkish control in Hungary, is an ideal Budapest experience. Don’t miss the grandiose Széchenyi Baths. The best time to visit these thermal baths is early morning or just before sunset.
Take a Danube River Cruise
Budapest is simply breathtaking at night as the buildings lining the banks of the Danube sparkle and reflect on the dark waters. Take a Danube River sightseeing cruise at night. It will be a memorable experience. You also get to learn interesting facts about the history of Budapest. You can take buffet-style romantic dinner cruises or one-hour cruises.
Walk Across the Chain Bridge
The Chain Bridge, completed in 1849, was considered as one of the wonders of the world at that time. It is a magnificent sight when the bridge is lit up in the evening. Take a stroll across the bridge in the evening to soak in its beauty.
Go Hungarian Wine Tasting
Wine tasting in Budapest is yet another activity you should not miss. The wine cellars here have a relaxed and romantic setting. You can learn a lot about Hungarian wine, too.
Sneak Around the Labyrinth of Buda Castle
The Labyrinth of Buda Castle is one of the 7 wonders of the underground world, and adding to its mystery and allure, it was closed down in 2011 after a police raid. It has reopened, and you can visit 1 mile of the 6-mile-long labyrinth.
Take a Segway Tour of Budapest
There is no need for you to have any prior experience operating a Segway. You can see all the major attractions and get to know the city better on a Segway. There will be plenty of photo opportunities along the way, too.
Shop at the Central Market Hall
The Central Market Hall, built in the 19th century, is a large indoor market. You can buy all the typical Hungarian products here. The food hall is on the first floor, where you get to buy anything from Hungarian sausages to vegetables and Hungarian wines. You will find vendors selling wares like traditional Hungarian embroidery and souvenirs on the second floor.
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Indulge in Pastries
Budapest is full of cafes, where you get to eat truffles, fresh pastries, and coffee concoctions. With antique furniture and tools of the old confectionery trade in the glass curio cabinets, the decor is charming, too.
Stylish Cities Around The World
Los Angeles, California, USA
You must be thinking the most stylish city in the US is New York. In fact, Los Angeles, California, takes the No.1 spot, thanks to its entertainment industry. Be it street-wear or upscale couture, you will find the most stylish stuff in Los Angeles’ small boutiques.
New York City, USA
New York, as we all know, is the fashion capital of the world. It is also one of the top tourist destinations in the world. Celebrities, models, designers, artists, business magnets… anybody who falls in the elite circle would surely visit New York. It is the most preferred shopping destination of the rich and the famous. You will also find affordable fashion here. From luxury to affordable vintage, you will find anything and everything in New York.
Singapore, Asia
The City of Light, Singapore, is the city of the rich and stylish. It is home to the well-heeled and is an expensive city. It is one of the most fashionable cities in Asia, and is a melting pot of food, retail and culture. Its endless skyscrapers and Art Deco-style buildings, only add to its style quotient.
Madrid, Spain, Europe
People in Madrid like to leisurely walk, and that makes it the best place for people watching. It is a cosmopolitan city, which features many famous designer shops. It is also known for its historic architecture and hosts its own Fashion Week.
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is undoubtedly one of world’s most exciting and stylish cities. The city has given us some of the leading designers in the international fashion circuit like Issey Miyake and Yoji Yamamoto. They put Tokyo on the fashion map. It is home to world-class shopping. What makes the city unique when compared to other stylish cities in the world is its street fashion, which is truly eclectic and prominent.
Berlin, Germany, Europe
It is one of Europe’s most stylish cities. Around 800 fashion designers call Berlin home! Isn’t that impressive! Berlin is dominated by creative people – artists of all types. You will find the most interesting shops and inspirational takes on fashion here.
Italy, Europe
Italy has many stylish city-states to boast like Florence, Milan, and of course, Rome. Some of the world famous designers like Roberto Cavalli, Donatella Versace and Moschino are all from Italy. It is known for effortless glamour. Not just fashion, Italy is known for its architectural monuments and hotels, too.
Paris, France, Europe
The list of stylish cities is never complete without a mention of
Paris. It is synonymous with style, fashion and glamour. What is unique about Paris is its effortless style. The elegance of Paris is reflected in the beautiful architecture of the city. Parisian women are also known for their elegant and chic looks.
London, UK
London is known as the “father of haute couture”. Everywhere you go in London, it’s like a fashion show on the streets! Some of the fashion biggies like Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney, and Christopher Kane are from London. It is a great city for shopping and street style.
Inspiring Cities Around the World – World Tourism
People, places, history, present, future… inspiration comes from a variety of sources and reveals itself in many forms. Several cities in the world have their own unique traditions and rich history, and people never get tired of visiting these places time and again and draw inspiration from them. Choosing inspiring cities is not an easy task. It is like choosing dinner from a large menu in a wonderful restaurant. Here is a peek into some of the inspiring cities in the world.
New York
One of the factors that makes New York inspiring, especially for artists, is the numerous galleries dotting the city. There are 500 galleries in New York, a paradise, indeed, for artists. With its first-class art schools and premier trade shows and art events, New York’s art scene is always being reinvented. People-gazing, or simply a walk on the streets, will present plenty of unforgettable moments, all of which light the creative spirit.
Paris
The Eiffel Tower is the signature monument of Paris and attracts millions of visitors each year.
It has three different floors spread over multiple levels. Here you can soak in the breathtaking beauty and tranquillity of Paris from different altitudes.
Paris has many other world-famous monuments, which are architectural marvels. Some of them are the Louvre or the Louvre Museum, which is the world’s largest museum and a historic monument. Notre Dame de Paris, the Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile are the other monuments that are truly inspiring for its architectural splendour.
Vermont
Vermont has inspired some of the world’s famous romantic poets, like Robert Frost, who spent 20 years in Shaftsbury, Vermont, with his wife and children. And it is here that he wrote Stopping by Woods… along with two books of poems. The Robert Frost Stone House Museum is a tourist attraction and will surely inspire budding poets.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
New Mexico’s capital city is also its creative capital. It is a city known for its cultural diversity and is a mecca for artists, including Georgia O’Keeffe and Alfred Stieglitz in the early part of the 20th century. The beautiful city is proud of its creative community. The city is not stuck in its glorious past. It has a proud present, too, with many contemporary, abstract, and avant-garde artists settling here. Like New York, Santa Fe also has innumerable art museums and galleries. It is a wonderful mix of nature, art and culture.
Los Angeles, California
It is the centre of the motion picture industry, and has around 850 museums and galleries, and thousands of arts organisations. It won’t be an exaggeration to say that Los Angeles is the creative capital of the world and is full of artists, writers, filmmakers, actors, dancers and musicians. It is a city of creative people, and what attract them to Los Angeles is its world-famous museums like the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the Getty Centre and the Museum of Contemporary Art, to name a few.
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Hong Kong
When you think of Hong Kong, the first thing that comes to your mind is the luxurious malls. However, it has much more to offer. Hong Kong’s skyline is one of the most stunning in the world, with the surrounding mountains and Victoria Harbour complementing the skyscrapers. It is also a haven for antique collectors. The Lion Rock hike, the Lion Rock Country Park with its spectacular views, Tai Mo Shan, the highest peak in Hong Kong, etc, attract thousands of visitors every year.
Beautiful Landscapes in Europe
Europe is made up of multiple countries and has an abundance of has magical looking landscapes. From beautiful coastlines, tall mountain ranges, endless meadows, dense deciduous forests, high rise cities to towns
Europe is made up of multiple countries and has an abundance of has magical looking landscapes. From beautiful coastlines, tall mountain ranges, endless meadows, dense deciduous forests, high rise cities to towns and villages with ancient buildings, Europe Tour Package is full of scenic landscapes. However, some are more breath-taking than the rest.
- Finnish Lakeland, Finland: This is one of the largest lake districts of Finland. The landscape came into being due to the shifting of glaciers over hundreds years ago.The Finnish Lakeland is made up of thousands of lakes, ponds, streams, rivers and islands making it one of the most breathtaking scenery in all of Europe.
- Tuscany, Italy: Ancient roman architecture along with the splendour of nature has made Tuscany in central Italy a striking landscape. It is the warm climates and the numerous architectural marvels of ancient Rome that attracts thousands of tourists to this beautiful place.
- Santorini, Greece: Deep blue waters, beautiful cliffs and the architecture make Santorini a dreamy view. The spell binding colours of the sea and the sky in contrast with the colours of the cliffs make it impossible for one to not fall in love with the landscape.
- Bavarian Alps, Germany: The deep, dense forests, endless mountains and the lush green pasture lands, make this place striking. The cool weather conditions and the beautiful scenery make the Bavarian Alps one of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe.
- Giverny, France: This landscape has been the inspiration behind numerous painting. The water lilies, the willow trees and the sleepy country side makes Giverny a gorgeous scene.
- Venta Rapid, Lativa: The Venta Rapid is one of the widest and shortest waterfalls of Europe. The soothing sound of the water falling over light green moss and rocks makes this site unquestionably beautiful and peaceful.
- Lake Balaton, Hungary: Lake Balaton is one of the most longest and shallowest water lakes of Europe. The blue-green, turquoise colour of the lake bordered by greenery and country houses make this a beautiful landscape to visit.
- Flanders Field, Belgium: Endless seas of red flowers lying under beautiful blue skies make Flanders Field in Belgium breathtakingly beautiful. The site is made up of World War I battlefields which are now symbolically full of beautiful flowers. Flanders Field is not only a splendid scenery but also one of the most visited cemetery and memorial in the world.
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Best affordable foreign trips from India
Do you have a vacation and want to travel abroad but have a budget constraint? Not to worry because you have many options to travel to an international destination at very affordable prices. For the beach lovers Sri Lanka is a very good option
Do you have a vacation and want to travel abroad but have a budget constraint? Not to worry because you have many options to travel to an international destination at very affordable prices.
For the beach lovers Sri Lanka is a very good option. Many of us forget about this beautiful place when we plan for a foreign trip. Sri Lanka has a rich heritage and is famous for its white beaches. Being an island, it has some of the best beaches like Tangalla, Beruwala, Mirissa, Bentota and Unawatuna. Water activities like kayaking, parasailing, skiing, surfing are present for the adventurous crowd. Sri Lanka’s culture dates back to many centuries ago and has some of the most beautiful and oldest palaces, temples, monasteries. The breathtaking landscapes and aromatic tea estates are a visual treat.
Thailand is one of the cheapest international places to visit from India with the flying tickets being very economical. Thailand is known for its prismatic beauty and its world famous cuisine. From intriguing buddhist temples to fascinating beaches and sceneries, Thailand is a must visit once in a life time. Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Krabi are some of the places not to be missed in Thailand. Bangkok is embellished with Buddhist temples everywhere in the city. It also has markets where you can buy anything at a low price.
Malaysia has an eclectic mix of cultures from the Malay, Chinese and Indians making it an interesting place to visit. This gastronomical place has some of the most amazing rain forests, shopping malls, islands, beaches. Some of these spectacular islands are Sipadan Island, Langkawai, Pulau Perhentian, Tioman Island. There is also unlimited entertainment at Genting Island, Petronas Towers, Gunung Mulu National Park, Batu caves and many more. There is everything for everybody in Malaysia.
Indonesia with its vast greenery and splendid beauty is another place to visit with affordable price. Their hindu temples and monuments are truly mesmerizing. Each of these structures are a beauty to gape at. The rich flora and fauna add to the attractiveness of the place. They have some of the largest tropical forests. The beaches are clear and pure. It is the land of volcanoes. You can have a tour of these volcanoes with a beautiful mountainous background. The spas in Indonesia are world famous. Bromo Mountain, Komodo Island, South Sumatra, Bali are some places to visit in Indonesia.
Dubai is the city of sky scrappers and shopping. Nobody would really want to miss visiting Dubai. This ultra modern city has some of the world’s best architecture. With its dazzling scrappers to sparkling roads and luxurious hotels and resorts, Dubai is a lovely tourist destination. This shopping capital has an abundant number of shopping malls and anything under the sun is available here. From cars, clothing, jewelry, electronics, sporting equipments are all available at any range of price. Visitors throng Souks, which are small market places. Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Creek, Wild Wadi Water Park are some places to visit in Dubai.
World’s Best Islands
The world is a perfect place with diverse destinations around every corner to rejuvenate and revive the human soul. The word holiday by itself stirs up joy in our minds. Among
The world is a perfect place with diverse destinations around every corner to rejuvenate and revive the human soul. The word holiday by itself stirs up joy in our minds. Among all the wonderful holidays you could ever have, beach holidays are the best. There cannot be one person complaining of a perfect beach holiday. Everybody loves the sea, sand and the sun. It is the only place where you can get dirty and still have the time of your life. Talking about beach holidays, here are some amazing island destinations to motivate you on a perfect beach holiday.
Beach holidays:
There could be no other place like a beautiful island to spend your holiday. A crystal clear beach and a platter of seafood is a dream come true. Here are some of the beach destinations if you consider spending your holiday season at the seafront, snorkeling and all.
Skopelos Island, Greece:
Nothing could be more pleasant than a fine Greek holiday. Skopelos Island is a perfect place for every visitor. It’s tranquil hilltop havens, clear beaches and authentic Greek cuisine is a magical combination. If you want to have a silent vacation free from buzzing tourists, then this is the ideal spot for you. This place has little visitors and it is yet the most enjoyable place for a quick vacation.
Canary Islands, Spain:
This is an amazing archipelago of seven unique islands distinguished from each other with different personalities. This place has a pleasant year-round climate ideal for year-round holidays. These are a group of volcanic islands with breathtaking panoramic views and sandy beaches. Each island has an airport for easy access. They have exotic spa retreats as part of holiday packages.
Bora Bora Island, French Polynesia:
Bora Bora, the pearl of the Pacific is indeed a dream destination to most of the travel enthusiasts. The pristine cerulean waters, the exclusive over the water bungalows hovering over the lagoons, the magnificent Mount Otemanu, the lush green volcano surrounded by beautiful islands, all of this sounds like a fairy tale. This is what Bora Bora is all about. It ranks #2 in the world’s best places to visit and the best and the most expensive honeymoon destinations. How cool is that? Here are some travel tips to help you discover Bora Bora, the most beautiful island in the world. As Bora Bora is a very expensive place, the best thing to do is to visit off-season when the rates will be comparatively less than the usual seasonal rates. This way it would be more affordable for you to have a comfortable stay and enjoy all the goodness of the island without burning a hole in your pocket. The best off-season to visit is between December and March.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India:
These are a vast group of about 300 islands dotting the Bay of Bengal so brilliantly. This magical archipelago is one of a kind with its exotic white, sandy beaches lined with palm trees, extraordinary mangrove backwaters and lively rainforests deep inside. The islands have no bounds for entertainment with fishing, scuba diving, skiing, water-surfing, Oceanside camping and hiking as well. Not to mention it has the most wonderful grounds of coral reefs that is home to some of the exotic species of sharks and stingrays. It is indeed the most visited island in all of India.
