Archive for June, 2011
Top Three Attractions of Quebec City
Posted by mehwish9 in Canada Tourism, General, Grammar, To Do, Top Tourists Destination, Tourism on June 24, 2011
Located within the Capitale Nationale region, Quebec City is the capital of Canadian province Quebec. After Montreal, it is the second most populous city in Quebec having a population of 491142. Like other major cities of Canada, Quebec City also has a lot of tourist’s attractions. Some of these attractions have become so popular that they have become a part of Quebec City’s life. Here are some of the major attractions of Quebec City.
Dufferin Terrace
Built in 1838, this terrace is next to Saint-Louis Fort but these days you can only see the remnant of this fort. This terrace is named after Lord Dufferin who was governor of Canada from 1872 to 1878. The Dufferin Terrace is the most visited attraction in Quebec City as from here; you can have an opportunity to see incredible view on the South shore, the Old Port. You will also be able to see the Chateau Frontenac which is one of the most popular and magnificent hotels in the world. The best time to visit this terrace is summer time because at this time of year, the terrace becomes full of life due to musicians, artists, mimes and many others. If you are interested to see some historical objects then you will be delighted to visit this terrace as some canons are also displayed here which were used to defend this city centuries ago.
Artillery Park
Artillery Park National Historic Site, which is located in the heart of this city, was once used as barracks for both French and British in mid-20th century. Here you can visit three patrimonial buildings named:
- Dauphine Redoubt (Built in 1712 during French Regime)
- Officers’ Quarters (dating back to 1818 When this site was owned by British)
- Arsenal Foundry (Built in 1903)
In Officers’ Quarters and Dauphine Redoubt, guides in the characters of officers and soldiers will welcome you. These characters will show you military history of the site through three centuries. Here you will also find soldiers performing musket practice using real black powder.
Quebec Funicular Railway
Quebec Funicular Railway is one of the most famous and unique attractions of the city. Your tour to this city would remain incomplete if you will not get a ride on Quebec Funicular Railway. The special thing about this ride is that it operates throughout the year and is quite inexpensive. This railway is quite old but it was modernized at the end of 20th century with a gift shop and beautiful views of city. Although this attraction has been modernized, it still has its older charm and beauty.
These were top three attraction of the Quebec City which you should not miss at any cost when you visit this wonderful city.
Places of Interest in Delhi
Posted by mehwish9 in General, Grammar, India, Indian Guide, Indian Tourism, To Do, Top Tourists Destination, Tourism on June 22, 2011
Delhi is the capital city of India. When this name comes to mind, we think about splendid mosques, Monumental forts and other buildings from the Mughal reign. But at the same time, there are modern attractions too so exploring this city is a great and wonderful experience. Let’s explore famous places of attraction in Delhi.
Chandni Chowk
Chandni Chowk is a main street of Old Delhi where you will see cars, rickshaws, cycles, carts and pedestrians competing for space with each other. Yes it is one of the busiest streets of Delhi which is chaotic and congested but still attractive. Since it is one of the oldest streets in India, you will find all types of shopping items here like jewelry, clothes and even electronic appliances due to which it has gained international fame and acknowledgment. If you are a food lover then your visit to Chandni Chowk will be quite enjoyable as you will find fruit chaats, kebabs and biriyanis here in this street. Chandni Chowk in Delhi is also considered important because of the holy places related to different religions like:
- Jama Masjid
- Gauri Shankar Temple
- Sunehri Masjid
- Baptist Church
Laxminarayan Temple
This temple has been dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi. It is one of the major temples in India containing idols belonging to different deities. This temple is also considered very respectable because Mahatma Gandhi was also a regular visitor of this temple. You can also see idols of some other gods and goddesses here in this temple like that of Lord Shiva, Lord Krishna, Lord Ganesha and Lord Rama. This place has become famous on international level as scholars and students from all parts of the world come here to learn and study more and more about Hinduism. For such students and scholars, guest houses are also made so that they can stay here during their research. As far as architecture of this temple is concerned, you will be mesmerized to see its vast gardens and tall spires made of red sandstone. This temple also comprises Jali Work along with huge idols. The temple has also been made more beautiful with artificial fountains and waterfalls.
Humayun’s Tomb
The famous Humayun’s Tomb is the best architectural design of Mughal dynasty. This building took eight years to complete which shows how magnificently it has been made. This tomb is built with red sandstone but to give it a more unique look, yellow and black sandstone has also been used. This variation in colors is quite pleasing to the eyes of tourists and visitors. The tomb is located in the middle of a garden and is octagonal in shape. It is crowned by a double dome which is 42.5 meters high. This tomb clearly shows how much Mughal emperors loved gardens and fountain structures.
Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory which was built by Raja Jai Singh II in 1710. He was so interested in astronomy and astrology that he established four other such observatories. In past, this observatory was used to observe the movements of moon, sun and other planets but now the instruments present in this observatory cannot make correct observations due to tall buildings. This observatory is established between lush green gardens so it is visited by people for spending romantic time or to see scientific constructions.
Purana Qila
Purana Qila which is also known as Old Fort is a testimony of Mughal art. Being one of the most loved tourists’ attractions, Purana Qila was built in 1538 by Mughal Emperor Humayun. It was actually built to protect Delhi but now in modern times, it has become a tourist’s attraction. At the foothills of the fort, there is a lake which is the main attraction of this fort. There are three gates of the fort which are made of red sandstones. Other attractions in this fort include the boating facility in lake. Here you can also do a lot of photography as there are attractive remnants of this fort. For the entertainment of tourists, a sound-and-light-show takes place every evening in the fort.
Lal Qila
Lal Qila which is also called Red Fort is the most popular historical landmark of Delhi. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan. It is called Red Fort because it has been made by using a large amount of red sandstone. It has octagonal shape and is popularly visited for the following attractions:
- Diwan-e-Aam
- Diwan-e-Khas
- Rang Mahal
- Shahi Burj
- Chatta Chowk
Florence- An Elegant City in Italy
Do you want to visit a city rich in architectural and artistic masterpieces? If yes then you should visit Florence. It is a city of wonderment where you can find a number of places of visitors’ interest. If you are planning a tour to Florence then make sure that you have included the following attractions in your list of attractions to see.
The Uffizi Gallery
It is one of the world’s great museums and a home to paintings made by renowned artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Raphael. This building was formerly used to house administrative offices but later it turned into a museum. This museum is actually divided into two wings named East Gallery and West Gallery. Both of galleries have 45 rooms altogether which are filled with art collections which are about 1600 in number. The paintings which are kept in Uffizi Museum are from 14th and 15th century. Besides paintings, the Uffizi also boasts of having 16th century sculptures. True art lovers must see this museum at least twice as it has a lot more things to see.
Piazzale Michelangelo
It is the city’s best known attraction and it is recognized easily by the bronze replica of David. It was designed in 1869 by Florentine architect named Giuseppe Poggi and provides magnificent views of the whole city so the best time to visit this place is in evening when it offers elegant views in bright lights.
Santa Croce
Located in Piazza Santa Croce, it is a church having a statue of Dante. This church is home of tombs of Italian innovators including Michelangelo and Galileo thus it is also known as Temple of the Italian Glories. The most notable features of this church are its 16 chapels which are decorated by Giotto and his pupils. Some of the other artists whose work has been displayed in church are:
- Antonio Canova
- Luca della Robbia
- Masso di Banco
- Giorgio Vasari
- Antonio Rossellino
- Taddeo Gaddi
- Henry Moore
- Andrea Orcagna
- Santi di Tito
- Donatello
Giotto’s Bell Tower
Giotto’s Bell Tower is 84.7 meters high and 15 meters wide tower which is one of the four principal components of Piazza del Duomo. It stands next to Santa Maria del Fiore and also known as Campanile. It is featured with different colored marble layers making it a worth-seeing place to see. This attraction is not only known for its architecture but also it is featured with work of arts which is incorporated to both outer walls and interior of the tower. If you want to see a grand view of city, you can climb the 414 steps after paying a nominal fee.
Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio which is also known as Old Bridge is located near Mercato Nuevo and offers an opportunity to see Florentine view. It is a medieval bridge dating back to 1345. It is an arch bridge which houses several shops including that of jewelry traders who have been working here since 17th century. This stone-made bridge has been destroyed and rebuilt several times but now, it is among one of the great places for tourists.
These were some of the major attractions of Florence. Visit these and have a wonderful and enjoyable time.
Must-See Lakes in Pakistan
Posted by mehwish9 in General, Grammar, Pakistan, Pakistani Tourism, To Do, Top Tourists Destination, Tourism on June 17, 2011
Pakistan is among those few countries where tourists can have an opportunity to see nature’s beauty at its best. There are high mountains, valleys, lush green plains, deserts, rivers and ocean. In between some high mountains of Pakistan, there are some spectacular and stunning lakes which add to the beauty of hilly areas. I have made a list of most famous and beautiful lakes in Pakistan and today I will share this list with you.
Saif ul Muluk Lake
You will find this lake in the northern end of Kaghan valley which is located at an altitude of 10578 feet. This fact makes this lake the highest lake in Pakistan. Lake Saif ul Muluk is located under the mighty Malika Parbat. The lake gives one of the best scenes in the world when reflection of mountains shines in its waters. You can reach this lake by a jeep but the best and most interesting way to reach this beautiful lake is through trekking. If you are also planning to reach this lake by training then let me inform you that it takes almost 1-2 hours to reach this lake from Naran. Waters of Saif ul Muluk are clear because water comes from the glaciers located all around this lake. An interesting story is also associated with this lake due to which people believe that fairies come down to the lake in full moon.
Manchar Lake
Manchar Lake is one of the largest lakes of Asia. It is a fresh water lake and is located west of Indus River in Dadu district. It is an important lake in this district because it provides livelihood to a number of fishermen and irrigates the crops as well. This lake is also a home to several aquatic plants like lotus. This lake was created in 1930 as a result of construction of Sukkur Barrage and since then it has been supporting thousands of people who depend on fresh water fish.
Keenjhar Lake
Keenjhar Lake is also known as Kalri Lake. Located in Thatta, this lake is one of the largest fresh water lakes of Pakistan. This lake is known at international level for breeding water birds as it supports about 140000 birds which include Black Coot, Common Pochard etc. Besides providing beautiful scenes of nature, this lake also acts as a source of drinking water.
Shangrila Lake
Being a part of Shangrila resort, this lake is located at a drive of 20 minutes from Skardu. The name of this lake comes from the Chinese word Shangri La which means “Heaven on Earth”. This can truly be called Heaven on Earth because of its spectacular and breathtaking beauty and quiet ambiance.
Haleji Lake
Haleji Lake is located in Thatta district of Pakistan where thousands of migratory birds come from different parts of world. These birds include European Wigeon, Black Coot and Dalmatian Pelican. The presence of these birds makes it a bird watcher’s paradise as you can see more than 223 species of birds here. Haleji is a saltwater lake which was formed by seasonal water and today this lake has become a major source of water supply to Karachi.
Lulusar Lake
Lulusar Lake is located near Naran Valley. The “sar” from the name of lake comes from the Pushto language which means “top” or “peak”. Actually Lulusar is the name of the mountains which are located around this lake that’s why it is the lake of Lulusar. This lake is bigger as compared to all other lakes in the valley. A thousand of visitors, both local and international come here especially in summer to see the reflection of mountains in sparkling water of lake. To reach this beautiful lake, you can hire a jeep from Naran to reach this beautiful lake in five hours. I will suggest you to leave Naran in morning so that you can come back before sunset.
Mohodand Lake
Mohodand Lake boasts of being the most beautiful lake around Swat and Kalam. Located close to Lake Saifullah and Naseerullah, this lake is accessible through a jeep. This is also a good place for fishing and watching beautiful scenes.
These were some of the most popular lakes of Pakistan. Some other lakes are:
- Payee Lake (Kaghan Valley)
- Dudipatsar Lake (Kaghan Valley)
- Satpara Lake (Skardu Valley)
- Hanna Lake (Quetta City)
- Shonter Lake (Neelum Valley)
- Rawal Lake (Islamabad)
- Rama Lake (Gilgit)
Awe-inspiring Attractions in Galway
Located on the west coast, Galway is the fifth largest city of Ireland. Galway is an exciting holiday destination because it is a popular site where several festivals, fun-events and activities are held. This city is capable of capturing its visitors so beware of its beautiful attractions. Yes, Galway has a number of attractions that are marvelous and capture the person who pays a visit to this city. Some of its most popular and awe-inspiring attractions are as follows:
St. Nicholas’ Church
St. Nicholas Church is a place of worship that is located in heart of Galway. It is important and popular at the same time because it is the prevalent medieval parish church in Ireland. It dates back to 1320 but its building has been renovated since then. Most of the people visit this church because they believe in the story that Christopher Columbus prayed in this church in 1477 before sailing off to discover America.
Lynch’s Castle
It is a 16th century castle that belonged to the Lynch family. This building has now converted into a bank but its front part still amazes the visitors with carvings of gargoyles. Yes, this building is still quite impressive and is one of the most visited attractions of Galway. While visiting this building, you will find some genuine fireplaces that are still inside this castle. There is a special exhibition room in this castle which contains artifacts from the reign of Lynch family. This room is opened for visitors from Monday to Wednesday and on Fridays.
The Spanish Arch and Galway City Museum
Spanish Arch is located at a place where the river meets the sea. It also dates back to 16th century but still it attracts the visitors towards itself. It was originally called Ceann an Bhalla (Head of the Wall) but then its name was changed in the honor of Spanish merchant galleons which landed near it. The Spanish Arch now serves as the gateway to Galway City Museum. The Galway Museum is also an attractive place to visit as its galleries shows culture of Galway from 1800 to 1950. Some temporary exhibitions and events are also held here. From here, you can enjoy views of River Corrib, Galway Bay, Spanish Arch and Claddagh.
Salmon Weir Bridge
Salmon Weir Bridge shows cultural and historical aspect of Galway city. Crossing the River Corrib from the Cathedral to the city’s courthouse, Salmon Weir Bridge is an exciting place to visit. People come here to see spectacular views extending up to Wolfe Tone Bridge. Summertime is the best time to visit Salmon Weir Bridge as at this time of year, you can see the shoals of salmon making their way to Corrib for spawning. You will also find anglers fish in the water below. But it does not mean at all that Salmon Weir Bridge is only visited by tourists in summer. Throughout the year, it remains the favorite place of tourists and locals as well.
Galway Cathedral
Galway Cathedral is such an attraction which should never be missed in a visit to Galway. It is one of the largest and most beautiful buildings of the city which stands on Nun’s Island. It is featured with an octagonal dome and reaches to a height of 145 feet. The striking interior of the building is adorned and featured with rose windows and beautiful wall paintings.
These were some must-visit and worth-seeing attractions of Galway. Visit this city in these summer holidays and have a wonderful time.
Sightseeing in Munich
Munich!!!!! Yes today we will explore attractions in Munich which is the third largest city of Germany. Munich is a city that has something to see for every one who visits this beautiful city. Have you ever been to Munich? If no then this post is going to be quite beneficial for you as I am going to give you a list of some of the most popular tourists’ attractions in Munich. After reading this post, you will definitely make a plan to visit this wonderful place.
Hellabrunn Wildlife Park / Hellabrunn Zoo
The most popular family attraction in Munich is the Hellabrunn Wildlife Park. It is a unique zoo because here, animals are grouped according to the continent they belong to. This 89 acre park is located on the right bank of River Isar. Having more than 5000 animals, this zoo also has some enclosures which allow you to see the animals without cage and bars. Attractions in this zoo include:
- The New Jungle House which is a home to gorillas, alligators and chimpanzees.
- The Old Elephant House which was constructed in 1914 and has largest concrete dome all over the world.
- Dracula’s Villa where you will find bats flying around you.
- Guided tours provide you the facility to visit the zoo when it is dark or you are alone in zoo.
- Here you can also organize birthday parties for your kids.
Bavarian State Library
Munich’s Bavarian State Library is the best attraction for those people who love books and want to see great architectural work. This library contains a huge collection of books as well as it is featured with great architecture. It is the biggest brick building in Germany and people often come here to see its beautiful structure and huge staircase. As far as collection of books is concerned, let me inform you that this library boasts of having about 9.39 million books along with many historical manuscripts. Other things which you will find in this library include paintings, important local documents and prints. A visit to this library is a treat for book lovers.
River Isar/Flaucher
Flaucher Beach area is another family attraction where people come to enjoy their picnics and have some sunbath. This area is capable of attracting large number of people in site of the fact that there are a number of other beaches in Munich. This beach area is located alongside River Isar and close to the Thalkirchner Bridge. Here you will also enjoy swimming and paddling. It is a great place to visit and enjoy holidays.
Bavarian State Opera House/ National Theater Munich
The National Theater Munich is an opera house and is home to Bavarian State Opera House. This building is featured with eight columns at the entrance which have become recognition of this building. This building is visited by a large number of people every year due to its fine architecture. It is one of the famous buildings of the city and another interesting thing about this building is that it had to be rebuilt twice as it was first destroyed by fire and then with the bombing raids in second World War. Different musical events are held here which are popular among the tourists. Specialty of this building is the summer Munich Opera Festival that is held every year in the month of July.
Viktualienmarkt
It is a daily food market having 140 stalls and shops where you can find fish, spices, cheese, exotic fruits, flowers and vegetables. This market is well known as it hosts traditional and cultural events including asparagus season, summer festival, brewer’s day, gardener’s day, dance of the market women etc.
These were some of the most popular attractions of Munich. If you ever get a chance to visit Munich, must see these places.
Travel Guide of Boston
Posted by mehwish9 in General, Grammar, To Do, Top Tourists Destination, Tourism, United States of America on June 3, 2011
Boston is one of the oldest cities of United States of America and is the largest city in Massachusetts. Boston is such a city of America where you can find an opportunity to visit museums, explore history and go to well-known bars. Are you going to visit Boston for the first time? If yes then you will definitely need a travel guide to this wonderful city. Here I have made a list of some wonderful attractions of Boston.
New England Aquarium
New England Aquarium is one of the most popular and prominent places in Boston. This aquarium was founded in 1969 and boasts of having more than 7000 fish, aquatic mammals including penguins. There is a centerpiece inside the aquarium which is a huge 200000 gallon Giant Ocean Tank. This tank houses a collection of sea animals like turtles, stingrays and sharks. Visitors can also get a chance to touch sea urchins and horseshoe crabs in tide pool. Other than sea animals, there are a lot more attractions to see in New England Aquarium like café and Simons IMAX Theater. This aquarium also offers whale-watching tours along with seal and walrus shows.
Boston Public Garden
Boston Public Garden, which is also known as Public Garden, is a large park that is situated in heart of Boston. This park is located along Charles Street adjacent to Boston Common. It is one of the oldest botanical garden. Best time to visit Boston Public Garden is winter when pond in this park is opened for ice skaters. During warmer seasons, pond in this park becomes a home of swans and it is a site of Swan Boats which is a major attraction in Boston. Tourists can sit on boat adorned with a swan on back side after paying a nominal amount.
Here in this park, you will find a large variety of native and introduced trees including weeping willows, American and European elms, dawn redwoods, ginkgo trees and California redwood. There are also some permanent plantings in this park including a wide range of roses and flowering shrubs.
Franklin Park Zoo
Franklin Park Zoo was founded in 1911. This huge metropolitan zoo covers an area of 72 acres. The zoo is located in northeast part of Franklin Park and offers to see a large collection of animals including leopards, hippos, gorillas and birds. Some of the attractions of this park include:
The Tropical Forest: A 3 acre building that shows natural environment of animals with fences, barriers, streams and free-flying birds. Here you will find pottos, hedgehog, bats, gorillas, hippos, vulture, crocodiles etc.
Giraffe Savannah: It is a large area having three Masai Giraffes.
The Children’s Zoo: An area that has ducks, Prairie dogs, Amur Leopards.
Other attractions are:
Boston Harbor Islands
If you want to hike, swim, camp out and explore ruins of an old fort, you should visit Boston Harbor Islands. The Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area contains 34 islets that are spread in New England’s historic harbor. I will recommend you to enjoy ferry ride which is comfortable, relaxing and fun-filled. Here you will be provided with refreshments on board. Believe me, it would be really enjoyable.
Boston Public Library
This library was built in 1848 and was the first library having a children’s room. A visit to this library will be quite informative as you will find more than 650000 photographs, 100000 prints. You will also find 250 different newspapers in Newspaper Room. This library has been updated with modern facilities like internet, restaurant and on-line store providing reproductions of artwork.
Other Major Attractions:
- The Symphony Hall
- John Hancock Tower
- Sports Hall of Fame
- Gore Place
- Sam Adams Brewery
- Museum of Science
- Fenway Park
- The Freedom Trail
- Museum of Fine Arts