All about the famous French War Memorial in Pondicherry
Goubert Avenue, the 1.5km seafront that runs along the beach, often dubbed the ‘Pride’ of Pondicherry, houses the famous French War Memorial, a must-visit place while you are in the erstwhile French colony of Pondicherry.
Goubert Avenue, the 1.5km seafront that runs along the beach, often dubbed the ‘Pride’ of Pondicherry, houses the famous French War Memorial, a must-visit place while you are in the erstwhile French colony of Pondicherry. The French War Memorial is built in the living memory of those valiant soldiers who sacrificed their lives for their country in World War I (1916-1919). Located close to the Gandhi statue, the French War Memorial is surrounded by eight pillars.
Every year on the 14th of July, the war memorial is brightly illuminated to commemorate the first French victory on Bastille Day in 1789. People from Pondicherry and other areas gather at the war memorial to pay homage to the soldiers in the line of duty.
Erected in 1937 and opened to public view on April 3, 1938, by the then Governor Crocicchia, the war memorial comprises a bronze bas-relief that represents the arrival of the Governor-General of French India Dupleix in Pondy in 1742. The statue of a soldier resting on a rifle that stands at the centre of four stark tall white columns— two on both sides is very much “life-like”, carrying French inscription ‘Aux combatants des Indes Francaises morts pour la Patrie, 1914 – 1918” over him.
The monument itself makes a fantastic sight, but the large sculptural metal plaque on its rear face can only be witnessed when the enclosing area is opened, as during the ceremony seen above. The monument is just a stone’s throw away from the beach, and you can take a good view from a fair distance. The magnificence and importance of the war memorial have caught the attention of several filmmakers. The landmark features in several scenes of the Bollywood comedy film ‘One Two Three’ (2008).
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I don’t think the war memorial is built on a sprawling landscape, unlike most war memorials in other parts of the world – it is pretty small in area, yet an intriguing tourist destination. Visitors are usually restricted from walking into the grounds of the war memorial.
You can take a Gorimedu bound bus, auto-rickshaw or taxi either from the Bus Stand or the Railway station, and alight at the Government Hospital (GH). This touching war memorial is about 500 meters from the Bus stand.
Five Reasons To Visit Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu this Monsoon!
Monsoon has its own charm and magic, and there is everyone reason why should take a trip to the picturesque hill station of Kodaikanal in Tamilnadu. Kodaikanal, with its over-flowing beauty, is nature’s gift to man. Therefore, if nature is your thing, then Kodaikanal lies right in the lap of nature and clouds. Many of these places go green during monsoon and look out–of–the–world. The scorching summer heat gives way to balmy and chilling breezes and cool showers that will make you enjoy the charming tourist haven: obviously, the best time to travel! Here are 5 good reasons why Kodaikanal will be a great place to hit this summer
1.The perfect weather:
Only very few hill stations in India come close to Kodaikanal in terms of the salubrious climate all around the year. The monsoon is characterised by temperature level between 10 and 18 degree C – just what you require for going around, putting your feet up or just going blah!
2.Break-taking views:
Kodaikanal dubbed the “Princess of Hill Stations”, is snugly nestled on a plateau and is enveloped by views of hair-raising hills and valleys. If you like to hug the landscapes of cloudy skies and deep valleys, then Kodaikanal is just the place for you.
3.The forgotten history:
Kodaikanal has been long one of the most popular summer resorts in the country. In the 19th century, although the plains went through tropical diseases, Kodaikanal was still a welcome gateway.
4.The Pine Forests:
The sprawling pine forests of Kodaikanal have been the backdrop for many a Kollywood dream sequence songs and TV serials. The pine forests not only add to the mojo of the place but moderate the effects of sun, wind and rain.
5.The enchanting scenes:
From the still Kodaikanal Lake to the ‘far from the noise’ Poombarai village, Kodaikanal is a traveller’s delight. The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, Pillar Rocks, Coaker’s Walk and Dolphin’s Nose make Kodaikanal a must-visit hill station in Tamilnadu.
News – Heritage Rail Museum Makes a Comeback in Ooty
The ‘Heritage Rail Museum’ is a landmark attraction in the world-famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR) that houses several old articles belonging to the 119-year-old NMR. The museum, which has been open to public view at the railway station, gives incisive information about the history of the mountain railway.
The inauguration of the ‘Heritage Rail Museum’, coincidentally, fell on the 230th birth centenary of John Sullivan, the founder of present-day Ooty (Nilgiris).
The museum, obviously, offers a great opportunity to see heritage railway objects they include ticket dating press machine, token pouch, gate signal lamp, hand signal lamp, lamp post, water container drum, iron water flask, water filter, typewriter, petromax light, well’s paraffin gas lamp, leather cash bag, point indicator lamp, lamp burner, ticket tube, wall clock, pinion wheel, station master’s room lamp, among other things.
The x-generation gets an opportunity to learn the evolution of NMR that commenced operation in 1899, and transformed itself, with time, to a ‘World Heritage Site’ in 2005.
The ticket dating pressing machine can wow the present day generation as the machine, to this day, stands testimony to the effectiveness of railway technocrats’ well-executed process of ticketing in the bygone era. The pinion wheel offers live-demo on how the NMR laboured along the distinct rack and pinion track in NMR Also, old photographs on NMR leaves one stumped and intrigued.
The ‘Heritage Rail Museum’ was inaugurated by Jayaraj, a senior staff at NMR. The chief guest at the inaugural event, Sateesh Saravanan, station director at Coimbatore, said that the museum would attract many a tourist interested to know a thing or two about NM R and the historical significance of the heritage train journey starting from the ‘charming’ Ooty station. Sateesh hinted that many of the exhibits in the museum are far from use and a couple of items including token pouch are still functional. He added that the museum will witness possible expansion in future to develop into a special heritage tourism destination tagged within the ‘heritage NMR’ to give a fillip to heritage tourism.
Kid-friendly budget travel destinations
Picking the right destination is very important while travelling with toddlers, tweens, and teens.
Kids are quite impatient so the trick is to choose destinations that will arouse their curiosity. Places with inspiring history, animals and those that offer hands-on activities are best suited for kids.
Here are a few travel hotspots in the U.S. and Europe that won’t break your bank.
WASHINGTON, DC
The National Mall in D.C. is a must visit. But how about riding in a boat on wheels? Take D.C. duck tour (90 minutes), and experience both land and sea. It will take you to the history-packed National Mall, which covers the Capitol building, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Smithsonian museums, and then go for a scenic river trip.
COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG, VA
Everyone loves to play dress-up. A stash of old-timey accessories awaits you at the Great Hopes Plantation, where the original 1700s farm has been recreated. Wearing mop caps (for girls) and hats (for boys) and other costumes kids can perform 18th century household chores in the field.
LONDON
London is associated with mystery and discovery, thanks to a number of classics based in this city. And the city doesn’t disappoint. Along the muddy banks of the River Thames you can go on two-hour trawls. The Tower of London is an unforgettable experience for young history buffs. Also, take a Yeoman Warder tour, which is filled with hair-raising adventures!
SAN DIEGO
The San Diego Zoo with more than 5,000 rare and endangered animals is one of the most diverse in America. The Polar Bear Plunge is the highlight of the zoo. You can burrow into a snow den, climb in the cockpit of a helicopter that was used on actual Arctic explorations, and let the bears sniff you through the wire mesh from the Experience Wall. Your kids can also interact with Dolphins, enjoy thrilling rides, watch Shark Encounters and the parks legendary sea mammal shows.
BERLIN
Berlin has a vibrant art and food scene. You can tour the entire city on bikes with rear baskets which are available on rent. Even the kids can get a set of wheels, with child seats and trailers, and helmets for all. You can also visit the 168-year- old Zoological Garden, Germany’s first zoo and watch zoo keepers feeding pandas and penguins.
NIAGARA FALLS, NY
The Cave of the Winds tour will be a delightful experience for the kids. To reach the Niagara Gorge you will have to take an elevator 175 feet down and stand on the Hurricane Deck, where the water from 181-foot Bridal Veil Falls will drench you with the tropical- storm-like spray.
BARCELONA
Barcelona has a made-for- children, fairytale quality about it. And those who have visited the city will vouch for it. One of the most popular attractions is La Sagrada Família, the basilica built by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí. You can visit Museu Picasso, in the La Ribera neighbourhood, among other delightful things.
Must-see places to take your kids before they’re grown
Dinosaur Valley State Park, Glen Rose, Texas
Take a prehistoric walk on the wild side by travelling million years back in time. You and the kids will delight in exploring five trails at Dinosaur State Park in Texas. You can see the dinosaur footprints, swim in the river and can even have fun on a mountain bike. Junior Ranger Explorer Pack is there exclusively for kids, which will keep them entertained for hours.
Stingray City, Grand Cayman Island
Want to be surrounded by dozens of stingrays or even kiss them? Welcome to this aquatic city, which is a surreal world indeed. The water is crystal clear and only one metre deep. And the dozens of gentle residents will not sting but will only tickle.
Glass Igloo Village, Finland
Here is where fairytales are made. No kidding. The experience is straight out of a fairy tale. You can stay in a glass igloo with attached toilets and showers at this snowy resort and watch thousands of stars or admire the Northern Lights.
To keep you nice and snug, sleeping bags are provided. The Kelo- glass igloo is for those who prefer a little more warmth. It is an igloo and a warm log cabin rolled into one, complete with a fireplace, sauna and kitchenette.
Santa opens his doors during the festive season for the little ones. There are husky safaris, and snowmobile rides for older kids.
Disney World, Orlando, Florida
Disney World is a family favourite. Some of the world’s most adventurous rides, children’s famous cartoon characters, and more come to life here. Disney World has a lot of exciting adventures to keep the whole family entertained. You’ll likely spend most of your time in the Magic Kingdom if kids are in charge. If you stay at the Walt Disney World Resorts you will be able to spend more time at the park.
Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Guests are transformed into astronauts for the day at the spectacular Kennedy Space Center. You and the kids will have a ball learning about life in space. From the family-friendly astronaut training experience to experiencing a shuttle launch you get to know all about life in space.
If you are visiting the Disney World in Florida you can visit the space centre easily as it is just an hour away from Orlando.
Sanibel & Captiva Islands, Southwest Florida
The beaches are covered with pretty white shells which is a sight to behold. Hunting for their perfect holiday memento will keep the little ones preoccupied for hours. This is a great place for tots to safely splash about as the water is shallow. You will spot dolphins swimming off-shore and ghost crab burrowing on the beach, which makes a visit to the islands even more worthwhile.
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Top 10 adventures to try in your lifetime
This list is sure to excite you if you’re in love with adventure and exploration.
1. Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu is now a popular tourist destination. The ancient city with its glorious history offers unbelievable adventures. A journey to the lost city of the Incas, a travel along the Inca Trail to the top of the mountain all offers epic adventures. The entire area is scattered with ancient ruins that deserve exploration and it also surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenes on the planet.
2. The Great Ocean Road, Australia
Australia has more to offer than beaches and cities. If you love adventure don’t miss out on the Great Ocean Road, which has so many adventures to choose from. It is one of the most beautiful and amazing stretches you’ll ever see in your life. Check out misty waterfalls, explore iconic surf breaks, and see the world-famous 12 Apostles. You can also go surfing, scuba diving and sea kayaking here.
3. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
For the greatest wildlife adventure you must visit the Serengeti National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site it is immensely beautiful and is as romantic as it is adventurous. It is one of the only two destinations to host the Great Migration in Serengeti, a natural phenomenon where millions of cattle, wildebeest, and zebra walk from one national park to the other in search of greener pastures. Its magic never fails to impress no matter how many times you visit the Serengeti.
4. Amazon rainforest
The Amazon is a surreal destinations and is truly magical; a place unlike any other on the planet. Here you will find exotic amphibian species, a variety of mammals, species of plants, fish and birds. A trip to the Amazon is a classic adventure and is more than exploring a dense rainforest or sailing along a river. You can hike through dense trails watching howler monkeys and canoe through a flooded forest. The sights and sounds of Amazon are something you will never find elsewhere.
5. The Himalayas
To enjoy dramatic landscapes and ultimate mountainside beauty a visit to the Himalayas is a must. The iconic Mt. Everest, steep slopes, remote mountainside villages that offer great cultural experiences, all adds to the experience. From gut wrenching mountain passes to jaw-dropping gorges this place has it all.
6. The Grand Canyon, USA
The Grand Canyon has some of the cleanest air on the planet and is maintained as a wilderness area. It presents the most colourful scenes you have ever seen. The Grand Canyon is always beautiful and will bring you closer to nature’s true spirit. Head over to the North Rim, which is 8200 feet high, for the ultimate adventure of your lifetime. It has mesmerizing views and boasts of cooler temperatures, and stunning wildflower meadows.
7. South Africa
Want to swim with the sharks? South Africa is the place to go. A tour to South Africa is for the adrelanine junkies as it gives you an adrenaline rush unlike any other. Africa will offer an experience of a lifetime.
8. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef stretches for 2300 kms and is the largest coral reef system on the planet. Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site is always an epic adventure. The reef will enthral you with its more than 1000 fish species, varieties of corals and marine life. The reef system is one of the fastest disappearing attractions of the modern world so visit soon.
9. The Great Zambezi River, Zimbabwe
For rafting enthusiasts the Zambezi River is a haven. It is one of the best river rafting destinations on the planet, and is visited by the most seasoned rafters. You can see a pod of hippos and crocodiles, apart from the dramatic drops and gigantic swells from up close.
10. Finland
On a snowmobile you can explore the best of Finnish wilderness. Here you can enjoy unparalleled natural beauty by embarking on a husky safari that lets you control a team of dogs, sleep in wilderness cabins and cook over open fires. This safari is a truly remarkable experience, which you will not find elsewhere.
10 English Films to watch while traveling
Choosing the right English movie to watch while travelling is more an art than mere selection. You can be the weirdest laughing aloud to Tearjerkers and hilarious, comedy stuff or weeping or guffawing to emotional story plots and characters. We have compiled a full range of top 10 English movies for you, for all seasons that will stir you, for sure, to hit the open road. And remember they can easily be rented and streamed right onto your notebook or laptop. Do check them all for yourself today!
Movie 10: Vicky Cristina Barcelona, 2008
Movie 9: Eat Pray Love, 2010
Movie 8: Frantic, 1988
Movie 7: Out of Africa, 1985
Movie 6: North by Northwest, 1959
Movie 5: Stealing Beauty, 1996
Movie 4: Le Week-End, 2013
Movie 3: Under the Tuscan Sun, 2003
Movie 2: Before Sunrise, 1995
Movie 1: The Motorcycle Diaries, 2004
Famous Deserts of the World | World’s Famous Desert
On every corner of the World Wide Web the planet’s most striking forests, mountains, tourist attractions, and lakes, are showcased. However, the desert is neglected to a great extent.
A barren, arid land with little vegetation is known as a desert. In comparison to most other biomes, deserts are essentially uninhabited because of the unfriendly environment. One-third of the planet’s land area is covered by deserts. When we think of deserts what usually comes to mind is a sweltering and sandy barren land. But some of Earth’s deserts extend to the planet’s freezing zones.
Compared to the past, deserts are not so unwelcoming today. The modern means of transportation have made it easy to visit these unbelievable places on the earth. Here is a peek into some of the Famous deserts of the World.
Here are the World’s Famous Desert:
- Sahara Desert
- Black Rock Desert – Nevada
- Atacama Desert
- Namib Desert- Southern Africa
- Gobi Desert
- Negev Desert
- Mojave Desert
- Antarctic Desert
- Sonoran Desert
- Thar Desert
- Rubʿ al Khali
Sahara Desert
The Sahara is the third-largest desert in the world as well as known as the Hottest desert in the world and covers a large part of Northern Africa. The Sahara has been shaped by sporadic rainfalls and winds into a landscape of valleys, dunes, sand seas, and flats. Water from the desert’s underground aquifers nourishes the oasis and infringes on the dry area.
Black Rock Desert – Nevada
The Black Rock Desert, where you will find alkali flats and lava beds, is the most famous Desert for an annual weeklong event – Burning Man, which sees the construction of Black Rock City. During the festival Burners reside here and all traces of it are removed after they leave.
Atacama Desert
The Atacama Desert, known as one of the world’s famous deserts, is the driest non-polar desert on Earth. Stretching 600 miles, it spans Bolivia, Peru, Chile, and Argentina. This desert’s Mars-like terrain has even been used by NASA for testing instruments designed for space exploration. It boasts the clearest night skies, making it a hotspot for stargazing and home to some of the world’s largest observatories.
Namib Desert- Southern Africa
The Namib is the world’s oldest desert and was formed 43 million years ago. It is home to a wide variety of animals, which you will find nowhere else. The Namib Desert extends into Angola and South Africa known as the World’s famous desert.
Look out for some other Eco-tourist Places in the World, Where the Flora and fauna meet together for a perfect vacation with your family and friends.
Gobi Desert
The Gobi spans parts of China and Mongolia is also the Famous Desert of the world which has invited a lot of travelers & tourists in recent years. The Mongolian death worm is alleged to exist in this desert. Locals claim that it can kill its victim by discharging acid, and is two to five feet in length.
Negev Desert
The desert constitutes over 55% of Israel’s land area which is the reason for being Famous desert of the world. This region has been settled by the Byzantine Empire, the nomads, Romans, and many others throughout the ages.
Mojave Desert
The Mojave is the lowest point in North America and contains Death Valley. It sits at an elevation of 282 feet below sea level. The boundaries of the region are marked by Joshua trees. The Mojave’s largest city is Las Vegas, Nevada.
Antarctic Desert
The Antarctic Desert, the world’s largest and least hospitable desert, is among the world’s famous deserts. Receiving only about eight inches of annual precipitation, it supports no permanent residents. Its icy expanse covers the coldest, windiest, and driest continent on Earth.
Sonoran Desert
The Sonoran Desert, one of the world’s famous deserts, spans California, Arizona, and Mexico. Known for its rocky terrain, it is home to the iconic organ pipe cactus and saguaro cactus, each protected by federal preserves.
Thar Desert
The Thar Desert forms a geomorphic border between India and Pakistan and covers 77,000 square miles. There are 25 species of snakes and 23 species of lizards in this desert.
Rubʿ al Khali
The centerpiece of the Arabian Desert, the Rubʿ al Khali, is also known as the Empty Quarter. It’s the largest sand desert on the planet. Due to the feldspar within the sand, it has orange-red dunes.
These Places are known for their Popular & Famous deserts of the world with the hottest weather we well as the coldest in some of the Desert regions.
Places to Travel this Winter
Winter is the season of festivities and fun. It is the most welcomed break from our routine at the end of the year, with Christmas and New Year just around the corner. It is time with family and friends. Some like to spend this precious quality time at home, and some like to have an exciting vacation
Winter is the season of festivities and fun. It is the most welcomed break from our routine at the end of the year, with Christmas and New Year just around the corner. It is time with family and friends. Some like to spend this precious quality time at home, and some like to have an exciting vacation. For those looking for a vacation, here are a few places you should not miss during this fabulous Winter in the last calendar month.
To start with, one of the best places to travel in winter is Goa. Goa is the land of beaches and shores. With its beautiful, vast seas and pristine water, Goa is one of the best destinations in India for Christmas and New Year’s Eve. During Winter, Asia’s largest music festival, the famous Sunburn Festival happens here. Sunburn is an electronic dance music festival that is held on the beach on multiple stages, with artists playing simultaneously. You can welcome the New Year in a party style here.
To beat the winter chill you can escape to Rio de Janeiro. The mighty Copacabana Beach has the best party for New Year in Rio. Many pack their bags to this party-crazy destination. If you want to stay away from the crowd, there are serene beaches to spend some time for yourself or the enchanting fireworks display to keep you entertained.
Australia, famous for its Sydney Opera House looks spectacular during the Christmas season. There are some stunning fireworks displays across the Sydney Harbour Bridge during New Year’s Eve which can not be missed no matter where you are in the city. For the foodies, you can hop to Tasmania which has a Taste Festival. There is also the Woodford Folk Festival in Queensland which is Australia’s biggest cultural festival.
Cruising around Hawaii and Mexico is fantastic during Winter. It is the best family vacation one can look forward to. The weather is excellent around this time of the year. To add to it the Christmas glitter and pomp is a big bonus for all and there are many things to do on a cruise. Spending time in Cancun, Mexico in a beautiful resort is very relaxing with very nice weather. They have white sand beaches that are a visual treat.
Phuket in Thailand has the most popular regatta during Winter to celebrate the King of Thailand’s birthday. It is an island with many beach towns, each of these being unique in its own way. If you travel a little further you can go to the best diving destination, Similan Islands. This place is mostly done with rains by the end of the Monsoon and has clear skies and calm seas and is very inviting for adventurous divers.
If you want to ski in the snow then head to Colorado. Some of the best ski resorts are present in Colorado which has powder snow. By December it would get sufficient snow for skiing. You can go to Vail, Squaw Valley, or Jackson Hole. Also, there are breathtaking hot springs in Glenwood Springs.
Last but not least and if you do not mind the chillness, getaway to New York. With Christmas and New Year in the season, the whole city is brightly decked up with exquisite lights and decorations. The ice skating in Rockefeller Center is a must during this season.
Travel Tips to Aruba
The island has more often a warm weather, photogenic beaches and friendly people makes up for a perfect vacation hot spot. The white sandy beaches and the cool trade winds can make any tourist’s heart filled with joy.
Aruba is located miles north of Venezuela in the warm Caribbean waters. Oranjestad the capital of Aruba lies on the south and west coast. Some of the world’s best beaches belong to Aruba. As you visit interior you will come across Aruba’s famous Arikok National Park which is home to a variety of wildlife that are being preserved here. While the place has some exceptionally breath taking views; nature too crafts out Aruba in her own naturally artistic way. You can see that in the form of some dramatic rock formations as the ocean waters crash against the rugged shore lines. Towards the north east along the windward shore the fofiti trees take a south west graceful bend that looks so neatly sculpted across the coast line. All these Nature’s magic adds up to the beauty and charm of Aruba.
If that really interest you then you might be considering a travel plan to Aruba. We will help you with some handy tips that can guide better.
A tourist is supposed to carry a valid Passport upon the entry and for the full duration of the stay. Further the necessary visa sticker on the passport is mandatory.
A valid to and fro ticket.
Check on the roaming charges if the mobile works in Aruba. GSM phone users need to unlock their SIM. It is better to contact the network service provider before making the travel. The tourist can either rent a cell phone or purchase a SIM at the airport.
While driving be alert on the road signs in the island as they are different here. First one has to familiarize with the signs before actually taking the car on the roads.
Drinking and gambling have age restrictions. Persons should be 18 years of age to be eligible to drink legally in public places.
Buses are in plenty and there is a service once in every 15 minutes. The buses ply till 6 pm.
Happy Information officers are a one stop shop for providing complete information. They provide with reliable information on the activities, routes, attractions and events happening in the island. They can be identified with their uniform colour which is a sea green T shirt sporting a Happy information slogans.
Wear comfortable footwear. Do not forget to bring your sun glasses, caps, and sunscreen creams.
Keep some handy ear plugs always with you. The music is very blaring and that can turn you off if you do not have ear plugs in.
Super markets, Banks and restaurants are mostly closed on official holidays.
There are paid parking slots that can relieve the tourists of the parking trouble in many busy areas.
Bring in your own health and beauty care needs. This is because it can save a lot on the purse and get more convenient for your personal use if you have your stuff handy.
Get your daily medicine drug doses along with prescriptions.
