Sunday, 7 February 2010
Sunday, 24 January 2010
The Pyramids, Egypt
The first historically documented Egyptian pyramid is attributed to the architect Imhotep. Amenhotep is credited with being the first to conceive the notion of stacking mastabas on top of each other — creating an edifice composed of a number of "steps" that decreased in size towards its apex. The result was the Step Pyramid of Djoser — which was designed to serve as a gigantic stairway by which the soul of the deceased pharaoh could ascend to the heavens. Such was the importance of Imhotep's achievement that he was deified by later Egyptians.
The most prolific pyramid-building phase coincided with the greatest degree of absolutist pharaonic rule. It was during this time that the most famous pyramids, those near Giza, were built. Over time, as authority became less centralized, the ability and willingness to harness the resources required for construction on a massive scale decreased, and later pyramids were smaller, less well-built and often hastily constructed.
Number and location of pyramids
Many pyramids are in a poor state of preservation or buried by desert sands. If visible at all they may appear as little more than mounds of rubble. As a consequence archaeologists are continuing to identify and study previously unknown pyramid structures.The most recent pyramid to be discovered is that of Queen Sesheshet, mother of 6th Dynasty Pharaoh Teti, located at Saqqara. The discovery was announced by Zahi Hawass, Secretary General of the Egyptian Supreme Council of Antiquities, on 11 November 2008.
All of Egypt's pyramids, except the small Third Dynasty pyramid of Zawyet el-Amwat, are sited on the west bank of the Nile, and most are grouped together in a number of pyramid fields. The most important of these are listed geographically, from north to south, below.
Abu Rawash
Giza
Zawyet el-Aryan
Abu Sir
Saqqara
Dahshur
Mazghuna
Lisht
Meidum
Hawara
el-Lahun
Tour of The Pyramids, EgyptFor the pyramids tour! As you probably know, this is the only seven wonder of the ancient times that remains today. They have stayed here for more than 4500 years, and I am sure they will be here for some thousand years more.
Something that probably will surprise you, is that the pyramids are not, as I expected, lost in the middle of the desert, but in the outskirts of the city of Cairo. They are in a Gizah, the name of the neighborhood on the other side of the Nile river.
In the photo you can see the famous sphinx and the Kefren pyramid. This pyramid is the second tallest. The tallest one is Kheops (actually only 2 meters higher).
Saturday, 23 January 2010
The Brandenburg Gate, Germany
History
In the outgoing 18th century, the middle class won ever more influence. The king wished himself a willful conclusion of the road "Unter den Linden". In 1769, one presented a plan for the adornment of Berlin, which also showed a model of the new gate. But some years went up to the conversion of the plan. Only in 1788 began one with the outline of the old Brandenburg Gate.
For the opening, the art objects and the Quadriga were still missed, but Schadow, Langhans, and the coppersmith Jury had already conceptions in 1789, how the Quadriga should look. Four years later, in the summer of 1793, the Quadriga was installed on the Brandenburg Gate.
In the last war days of May 1945, the Brandenburg Gate and Quadriga were destroyed. Berlin was divided in four sectors. The gate, now in the Soviet sector, became again fair its original function as a town-gate. It separated the British and Soviet sector, east and west. But still one could pass the gate.
The gate remained closed nearly 30 years long. Only with the downfall of the wall in the night of November 9th to 10th, 1989, it opened the chance of the reopening of the gate. To 22.12.1989 it finally happened. At the "Brandenburger Tor" a border crossing had been opened, and within fewer months the wall disappeared.
In the meantime, the buildings at Pariser Platz, destroyed in the war, were reconstructed again. From March 1998, to 2002, cars could drive through the gate. However, since 2002, the passage is closed for motorized vehicles. The bus No. 100, from "Bahnhof Zoo", makes an elbow around the gate.
Today, a red line on the roadway in front of the Brandenburg Gate marks the former course of the border of the west wall.
Tour of The Brandenburg Gate, Germany
One of the favorite tourist destinations in Germany the Brandenburg Gate, Germany has a long and enriched history. It was in the 18th century that the gate was built and the architecture of the gate followed the Neo classical pattern. In 1814 with the defeat of France in the hands of Germany the statue changed and goddess of peace was replaced by the goddess of victory. A Prussian eagle was added to the statue and with the growth of Third Reich the symbol changed which demonstrated the power of Hitler. A cross or the "swastika" was added to the Prussian eagle.However during World War II, the Brandenburg Gate, Germany was partially destroyed and it was not until 1950's that the gate was renovated. With such great historical significance attached to Brandenburg Gate, Germany no wonder it is considered as one of the most important Germany attractions. 1961 was a historical year for Brandenburg Gate, Germany as the German soldiers from the eastern portion of the country sealed off their part of the city and marked the building of Berlin Wall.
The period after the erection of Berlin Wall was crucial as the gate became the symbol of a divided country. Things became better in 1989 when the Berlin Wall was demolished and a new lease of life was unleashed marking the birth of a new nation. After the demolition of the wall the people damaged portions of Brandenburg Gate, Germany. However the damage is not that overwhelming as the gate now stands as a symbol of the modern, confident Germany which vows to be strong economically, politically and socially.
travel.mapsofworld.com provides important information about Brandenburg Gate, Germany.
Friday, 22 January 2010
ne Leaing Tow Ther of Pisa
The University of Pisa
The University of Pisa is part of the Pisa University System, together with the Scuola Normale Superiore and the Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies. It offers a wide and renowned range of courses, but it is especially known for its science and engineering branches, which manage extremely good courses at the BSc, MSc and PhD level. The Computer Science course at University of Pisa was the first one in the area to be activated in the whole Italy, during the 1960s. The university now has about 57,000 students.
History
The University of Pisa was officially established in 1343, although a number of scholars claim its origin dates back to the 11th century.The earliest evidence of a Pisan “Studium” dates to 1338, when the renowned jurist Ranieri Arsendi transferred to Pisa from Bologna. He along with Bartolo da Sassoferrato, a lecturer in Civil Law, were paid by the Municipality to teach public lessons.
The University's role as a state institution became ever more accentuated during the Medici Grand Duchy period. A protectionist policy ensured a consistent nucleus of scholars and teachers: laws issued by Cosimo I, Ferdinando I and Ferdinando II obliged those who intended to obtain a degree to attend the Studium of Pisa. This period sees various illustrious figures lecture at Pisa, especially in the field of law and medicine.
During the ‘Second Restoration', in 1851, Leopoldo II united the universities of Pisa and of Siena in a unique Etruscan Athenaeum motivated partly by economic reasons, but primarily for political control. Following the Florentine insurrection and the fleeing of the Grand Duke in 1859, one of the initial measures imposed by the Provisory Government was the restitution to the city of Pisa of its Studium with all six of its faculties.
After the second world war the University of Pisa returned to the avant-garde in many fields of knowledge. To the faculties of Engineering and Pharmacy, established pre-war, were added Economics, Foreign Languages and Literature and Politics. In 1967 the ‘Scuola Superiore di Studi Universitari e Perfezionamento S. Anna' was founded which, together with ‘La Scuola Normale', formed a highly prestigious learning and teaching centre.
Today the University of Pisa boasts eleven faculties and fifty-seven departments, with high level research centres in the sectors of agriculture, astrophysics, computer science, engineering, medicine and veterinary medicine. Furthermore the University has close relations with the Pisan Institutes of the National Research Council, with many cultural institutions of national and international importance, and with industry, especially that of information technology, which went through a phase of rapid expansion in Pisa during the nineteen sixties and seventies.
Statue of Liberty
Statue of Liberty
The statue is made of a sheathing of pure copper, hung on a framework of steel with the exception of the flame of the torch, which is coated in gold leaf. It stands atop a rectangular stonework pedestal with a foundation in the shape of an irregular eleven-pointed star. The statue is 151 ft (46 m) tall, but with the pedestal and foundation, it is 305 ft (93 m) tall.
History
Discussions in France over a suitable gift to the United States to mark the Centennial of the American Declaration of Independence were headed by the politician and sympathetic writer of the history of the United States, Édouard René de Laboulaye. French sculptor Frédéric Bartholdi was commissioned to design a sculpture with the year 1876 in mind for completion. The idea for the commemorative gift then grew out of the political turmoil which was shaking France at the time. The French Third Republic was still considered as a temporary arrangement by many, who wished a return to monarchism, or to some form of constitutional authoritarianism such as they had known under Napoleon. The idea of giving a colossal representation of republican virtues to a sister republic across the sea served as a focus for the republican cause against other politicians.
On February 18, 1879, Bartholdi was granted a design patent, U.S. Patent D11,023, on "a statue representing Liberty enlightening the world, the same consisting, essentially, of the draped female figure, with one arm upraised, bearing a torch, and while the other holds an inscribed tablet, and having upon the head a diadem, substantially as set forth." The patent described the head as having "classical, yet severe and calm, features," noted that the body is "thrown slightly over to the left so as to gravitate upon the left leg, the whole figure thus being in equilibrium," and covered representations in "any manner known to the glyptic art in the form of a statue or statuette, or in alto-relievo or bass-relief, in metal, stone, terra-cotta, plaster-of-Paris, or other plastic composition."
Financing for the pedestal was completed on August 11, 1885 and construction was finished on April 22, 1886. When the last stone of the pedestal was swung into place the masons reached into their pockets and showered into the mortar a collection of silver coins.
The Statue of Liberty functioned as a lighthouse from 1886 to 1902. At that time the U.S. Lighthouse Board was responsible for its operation. There was a lighthouse keeper and the electric light could be seen for 24 miles (39 km) at sea. As a lighthouse, it is the first in the United States to use electricity; there was also an electric plant on the island to generate power for the light.
Statue of Liberty Tour
Visit the Statue of Liberty National Monument and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, both only a short ferry ride from Battery Park. Be sure not to miss the historic halls and galleries at Ellis Island, where more than 12 million immigrants first entered America.
A Pedestal/Museum Access Pass – which is required to enter the Statue of Liberty pedestal – is not included in New York Pass admission. Pedestal/Museum Access is free and available at the main ticket booth on a first come-first served basis.
The Statue of Liberty Crown recently reopened to determined stair climbers. Crown tickets are available by advance reservations to 30 people per day. Please note, the climb to the crown is a strenuous journey that encompasses 354 steps in a cramped enclosed area with high temperatures.
Thursday, 21 January 2010
White House
The White House is the official residence and principal workplace of the President of the United States. Located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW in Washington, D.C., it was built between 1792 and 1800 of white-painted Aquia sandstone in the late Georgian style and has been the residence of every U.S. President since John Adams. It was designed by Irish-born James Hoban. When Thomas Jefferson moved into the home in 1801, he expanded the building outward, creating two colonnades which were meant to conceal stables and storage.
In 1814, during the War of 1812, the mansion was set ablaze by the British Army in the Burning
of Washington, destroying the interior and charring much of the exterior. Reconstruction began almost immediately, and President James Monroe moved into the partially reconstructed house in October 1817. Construction continued with the addition of the South Portico in 1824 and the North in 1829. Because of crowding within the executive mansion itself, President Theodore Roosevelt had nearly all work offices relocated to the newly constructed West Wing in 1901. Eight years later, President William Howard Taft expanded the West Wing and created the first Oval Office which was eventually moved as the section was expanded. The third-floor attic was converted to living quarters in 1927 by augmenting the existing hip roof with long shed dormers. A newly constructed East Wing was used as a reception area for social events; both new wings were connected by Jefferson's colonnades. East Wing alterations were completed in 1946, creating additional office space. By 1948, the house's load-bearing exterior walls and internal wood beams were found to be close to failure. Under Harry S. Truman, the interior rooms were completely dismantled and a new internal load-bearing steel frame constructed inside the walls. Once this work was completed, the interior rooms were rebuilt.
Architectural beauty
The President's house was a major feature of Pierre Charles L'Enfant's's plan for the newly established federal city, Washington, D.C. The architect of the White House was chosen in a design competition, which received nine proposals, including one submitted anonymously by Thomas Jefferson.The nation's first president, George Washington, traveled to the site of the federal city on July 16, 1792, to make his judgment. His review is recorded as being brief, and he quickly selected the submission of James Hoban, an Irishman living in Charleston, South Carolina. On Washington's recommendation the house was enlarged by thirty percent; a large reception hall, the present East Room, was added. This was likely inspired by the large reception room at Mount Vernon.
Construction
Construction of the White House began with the laying of the cornerstone on October 13, 1792, although there was no formal ceremony.Much of the other work on the house was performed by immigrants, many not yet with citizenship. The sandstone walls were erected by Scottish immigrants, employed by Hoban,as were the high relief rose and garland decorations above the north entrance and the "fish scale" pattern beneath the pediments of the window hoods. Much of the brick and plaster work was produced by Irish and Italian immigrants.The initial construction took place over a period of eight years, at a reported cost of $232,371.83. Although not yet completed, the White House was ready for occupancy on or circa November 1, 1800.White House today
In the 1990s, Bill and Hillary Clinton refurbished some rooms with the assistance of Arkansas decorator Kaki Hockersmith, including the Oval Office, the East Room, Blue Room, State Dining Room, Lincoln Bedroom, and Lincoln Sitting Room. During the administration of George W. Bush, first lady Laura Bush refurbished the Lincoln Bedroom to make it as if it were in the time of Lincoln; the Green Room, Cabinet Room, and theater were also refurbished.
The White House is one of the first government buildings in Washington that was made wheelchair-accessible, with modifications having been made during the presidency of Franklin D. Roosevelt, who needed to use a wheelchair as a result of his paraplegia. In the 1990s, Hillary Rodham Clinton—at the suggestion of Visitors Office Director Melinda N. Bates—approved the addition of a ramp in the East Wing corridor. It allowed easy wheelchair access for the public tours and special events that enter through the secure entrance building on the east side. The president travels from the White House grounds via motorcade or helicopter. President Dwight D. Eisenhower became the first president to travel by helicopter to and from the White House grounds.
After the period of Bush, now Obama is living in the White House.
you can visit this place.
Wednesday, 20 January 2010
Taj Mahal of India
Location: On the banks of river Yamuna in Agra
Year of Construction: 1631-1653
Built By: Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan
Spread Over: 42 acres
Significance: One of the Seven Wonders of the World
Taj Mahal of India - "the epitome of love", "a monument of immeasurable beauty". The beauty of this magnificent monument is such that it is beyond the scope of words. The thoughts that come into the mind while watching the Taj Mahal of Agra is not just its phenomenal beauty, but the immense love which was the reason behind its construction. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan got this monument constructed in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, with whom he fell in love at the first sight. The very first sight of the Taj Mahal, the epitome of love and romance leaves one mesmerized.
Standing majestically on the banks of River Yamuna, the Taj Mahal is synonymous with love and romance. It is believed that the name "Taj Mahal" was derived from the name of Shah Jahan wife Mumtaz Mahal and means "Crown Palace". The purity of the white marble, the exquisite ornamentation, precious gemstones used and its picturesque location, all make Taj Mahal travel gain a place amongst the most popular ones. However, unless and until, one knows the love story behind the Tajmahal of India, it will come up as just a beautiful building. But, the love behind this outstanding monument is what has given a life to this monument.
Origin and inspiration
In 1631, Shah Jahan, emperor during the Mughal empire's period of greatest prosperity, was griefstricken when his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, died during the birth of their fourteenth child, Gauhara Begum
Emperor Shah Jahan himself described the Taj in these words:
Should guilty seek asylum here,
Like one pardoned, he becomes free from sin.
Should a sinner make his way to this mansion,
All his past sins are to be washed away.
The sight of this mansion creates sorrowing sighs;
And the sun and the moon shed tears from their eyes.
In this world this edifice has been made;
To display thereby the creator's glory.
The Taj Mahal incorporates and expands on design traditions of Persian architecture and earlier Mughal architecture.
Architecture
The tomb
The central focus of the complex is the tomb. This large, white marble structure stands on a square plinth and consists of a symmetrical building with an iwan topped by a large dome and finial. Like most Mughal tombs, the basic elements are Persian in origin.
The Taj Mahal seen from the banks of river Yamuna.
The base structure is essentially a large, multi-chambered cube with chamfered corners, forming an unequal octagon that is approximately 55 meters on each of the four long sides. On each of these sides, a massive pishtaq, or vaulted archway, frames the iwan with two similarly shaped, arched balconies stacked on either side. This motif of stacked pishtaqs is replicated on the chamfered corner areas, making the design completely symmetrical on all sides of the building. Four minarets frame the tomb, one at each corner of the plinth facing the chamfered corners. The main chamber houses the false sarcophagi of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan;
The marble dome that surmounts the tomb is the most spectacular feature. Its height of around 35 meters is about the same as the length of the base, and is accentuated as it sits on a cylindrical "drum" which is roughly 7 metres high. Because of its shape, the dome is often called an onion dome or amrud (guava dome). The top is decorated with a lotus design, which also serves to accentuate its height. The shape of the dome is emphasised by four smaller domed chattris (kiosks) placed at its corners, which replicate the onion shape of the main dome.
The main finial was originally made of gold but was replaced by a copy made of gilded bronze in the early 19th century. This feature provides a clear example of integration of traditional Persian and Hindu decorative elements. The finial is topped by a moon, a typical Islamic motif whose horns point heavenward. Because of its placement on the main spire, the horns of the moon and the finial point combine to create a trident shape, reminiscent of traditional Hindu symbols of Shiva.
The minarets, which are each more than 40 meters tall, display the designer's penchant for symmetry. They were designed as working minarets — a traditional element of mosques, used by the muezzin to call the Islamic faithful to prayer. Each minaret is effectively divided into three equal parts by two working balconies that ring the tower. At the top of the tower is a final balcony surmounted by a chattri that mirrors the design of those on the tomb.
Tourism
Then President of Russia Vladimir Putin and wife Lyudmila Putina visiting the Taj Mahal in 2000.
The Taj Mahal attracts from 2 to 4 million visitors annually, with more than 200,000 from overseas. Most tourists visit in the cooler months of October, November and February. Polluting traffic is not allowed near the complex and tourists must either walk from parking lots or catch an electric bus. The Khawasspuras (northern courtyards) are currently being restored for use as a new visitor center.The small town to the south of the Taj, known as Taj Ganji or Mumtazabad, originally was constructed with caravanserais, bazaars and markets to serve the needs of visitors and workmen.Lists of recommended travel destinations often feature the Taj Mahal, which also appears in several listings of seven wonders of the modern world, including the recently announced New Seven Wonders of the World, a recent poll with 100 million votes.
Tourist Destinations map
World Top 10 - Tourist Destination
Country International Visitors (2001)
France 76,500,000
Spain 49,500,000
USA 45,500,000
Italy 39,000,000
China 33,200,000
UK 23,400,000
Russia 21,200,000
Mexico 19,800,000
Canada 19,700,000
Austria 18,200,00
SpainSpain is the second most visited country in the world with more than 50 million tourists visiting it annually. A tour of Spain would include a visit to its famous cities Barcelona and Madrid. Apart from sampling some ethnic Spanish food and wine one can see some of the most beautiful architectural designs on the buildings of Spain.
ITALY:
Italy an important tourist destination in Europe is a favorite with honeymooners and all romantic souls. Vacations to Italy are an invitation to spend ones time indulging in the senses be it eating delicious Italian pasta or drinking some of the best Italian wine, seeing Italian art or simply breathing in the scented air of the country. Know more...
USA:
USA is a top destination for tourists. Holidays in USA are an experience in diversity as the country is diverse in its weather conditions, the composition of the population and the topography. This diversity has led to people defining USA in their own terms and one can see the states of USA having a distinct identity of their own. Know more...
MEXICO:
Mexico is a top world destination for people to visit. Be its ancient pyramids lost in the rainforests, or its flaming hot dishes, or simply the colorful people of the country, to travel to Mexico is to be a part of a larger adventure.
CHINA:
China has grown as a top tourist spot as the people of the country and their unique culture attract people from far and wide.
Sydney History
History
Radio carbon dating suggests that the Sydney region has been inhabited by indigenous Australians for at least 30,000 years.[18] The traditional Indigenous inhabitants of Sydney Cove are the Cadigal people, whose land once stretched from south of Port Jackson to Petersham. While estimates of the population numbers prior to the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788 remains contentious, approximately 4,000–8,000 Aboriginal people lived in the Sydney region prior to contact with British settlers. The British called the Indigenous people the "Eora", because being asked where they came from, these people would answer: "Eora", meaning "here", or "from this place" in their language. There were three language groups in the Sydney region, which were divided into dialects spoken by smaller clans.
In 1770, British sea Captain Lieutenant James Cook landed in Botany Bay on the Kurnell Peninsula. It is here that Cook made first contact with an Aboriginal community known as the Gweagal. Under instruction from the British government, a convict settlement was founded by Arthur Phillip, who arrived at Botany Bay with a fleet of 11 ships on 18 January 1788. This site was soon determined to be unsuitable for habitation, owing to poor soil and a lack of reliable fresh water. Phillip subsequently founded the colony one inlet further up the coast, at Sydney Cove on Port Jackson on 26 January 1788. He named it after the British Home Secretary, Thomas Townshend, Lord Sydney, in recognition of Sydney's role in issuing the charter authorising Phillip to establish a colony. The original name was intended to be Albion until Phillip decided upon Sydney.
Rapid suburban development began in the last quarter of the 19th century with the advent of steam powered tramways and railways. With industrialisation Sydney expanded rapidly, and by the early 20th century it had a population well of more than a million. The Great Depression hit Sydney badly. One of the highlights of the Depression era, however, was the completion of the Sydney Harbour Bridge in 1932.Sydney overtook Melbourne in population in the early years of the 20th century, and has remained the largest city in Australia since this time. During the 1970s and 1980s Sydney's CBD with the Reserve Bank and Australian Stock Exchange clearly surpassed Melbourne as the nation's financial capital.Throughout the 20th century, especially in the decades immediately following World War II, Sydney continued to expand as large numbers of European and later Asian immigrants populated the metropolitan area.
Tourism
In the year ending March 2008, Sydney received 2.7 million international visitors.The most well-known attractions include the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Other attractions include Royal Botanical Gardens, Luna Park, some 40 beaches and Sydney Tower.
Sydney also has several popular museums such as, the Australian Museum (natural history and anthropology), the Powerhouse Museum (science, technology and design), the Art Gallery of New South Wales, the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Australian National Maritime Museum.
The attraction of Sydney
Vivacity events
Sydney Festival
Three weeks of music, dance, family fun, theatre and visual arts make Sydney buzz over summer. Spectacular shows and performances as well as the ever-popular free outdoor concerts. Opening with Festival First Night and including the free outdoor concert by A.R. Rahman of Slumdog Millionaire fame.
Australia Day
Endless fun with events on the harbour and around the city, family fun in Hyde Park, Tall Ships and ferry races, and a new musical extravaganza in the Domain.
LIFESTYLE
Famous for its World Heritage-listed Sydney Opera House, Sydney is one of the world's favourite cities, and has been voted "world's best city" by readers of US travel magazines Travel & Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler. Sydney is also ranked first in the Asia Pacific for quality of life by the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2007.
Australia's oldest and largest city is set on one of the world's most stunning harbours, fringed by easy-to-reach, sandy beaches. Sydney Harbour separates the city into north and south, with harbourside villages, beachside suburbs and inner city areas full of life and their own distinctive character.
The city has a sunny, moderate climate which contributes to Sydneysiders' relaxed lifestyle and love of the great outdoors. There are five major national parks around Sydney with 8,000 square kilometres of open space.
This multicultural city's restaurant and cafe scene is enhanced by outstanding local fresh produce and world-class wines. Sydney has a dynamic arts and cultural scene. It is home to some of Australia's leading arts organisations such as Opera Australia, Sydney Symphony, Sydney Dance Company and Sydney Theatre Company and has produced many talented writers, film directors and performers.
Saturday, 16 January 2010
Eiffel Tower
At 300 metres (320.75m including antenna), and 7000 tons, it was the world's tallest building until 1930. Other statistics include:
* 2.5 million rivets.
* 300 steel workers, and 2 years (1887-1889) to construct it.
* Sway of at most 12 cm in high winds.
* Height varies up to 15 cm depending on temperature.
* 15,000 iron pieces (excluding rivets).
* 40 tons of paint.
* 1652 steps to the top.
It was almost torn down in 1909, but was saved because of its antenna - used for telegraphy at that time. Beginning in 1910 it became part of the International Time Service. French radio (since 1918), and French television (since 1957) have also made use of its stature.
During its lifetime, the Eiffel Tower has also witnessed a few strange scenes, including being scaled by a mountaineer in 1954, and parachuted off of in 1984 by two Englishmen. In 1923 a journalist rode a bicycle down from the first level. Some accounts say he rode down the stairs, other accounts suggest the exterior of one of the tower's four legs which slope outward.
Design of the tower
The third floor of the Eiffel Tower, at night, seen from Trocadéro.
Material
The metal structure of the Eiffel Tower weighs 7,300 tonnes while the entire structure including non-metal components is approximately 10,000 tonnes. Depending on the ambient temperature, the top of the tower may shift away from the sun by up to 18 cm (7.1 in) because of thermal expansion of the metal on the side facing the sun. As demonstration of the economy of design, if the 7300 tonnes of the metal structure were melted down it would fill the 125 metre square base to a depth of only 6 cm (2.36 in), assuming a density of the metal to be 7.8 tonnes per cubic metre. The tower has a mass less than the mass of the air contained in a cylinder of the same dimensions,[22] that is 324 metres high and 88.3 metres in radius. The weight of the tower is 10,100 tonnes compared to 10,265 tonnes of air.
Wind considerations
At the time the tower was built many people were shocked by its daring shape. Eiffel was criticised for the design and accused of trying to create something artistic, or inartistic according to the viewer, without regard to engineering. Eiffel and his engineers, however, as renowned bridge builders, understood the importance of wind forces and knew that if they were going to build the tallest structure in the world they had to be certain it would withstand the wind. In an interview reported in the newspaper Le Temps, Eiffel said:
Now to what phenomenon did I give primary concern in designing the Tower? It was wind resistance. Well then! I hold that the curvature of the monument's four outer edges, which is as mathematical calculation dictated it should be [...] will give a great impression of strength and beauty, for it will reveal to the eyes of the observer the boldness of the design as a whole.
Maintenance
Maintenance of the tower includes applying 50 to 60 tonnes of paint every seven years to protect it from rust.
Tuesday, 12 January 2010
Tourism in England
in England
Heritage Cities in England
* Bath: A spa, famous for its Regency architecture and crescents, and also for its Roman baths.
* Brighton: Brighton is a seaside resort which includes two piers, West Pier and Brighton Pier, and also has the Royal Pavilion.
* Bristol: Brunel's Clifton suspension bridge is a famous landmark, and the ship, the SS Great Britain is another of Brunel's famous constructions, which is now in dry dock in Bristol.
* Cambridge: A famous university town.
* Canterbury: Renowned for its cathedral.
* Dover: A major port with access to the continent. Also well known for its white cliffs, and to a lesser extent for its castle, Dover Castle.
* Haworth: where the Brontë Sisters lived, is very popular with Japanese tourists, as Wuthering Heights has a cult following in Japan.
* Liverpool: The 2008 European Capital of Culture, a major port and World Heritage Site, home to two cathedrals and houses more listed buildings, museums and art galleries than any other city in the UK outside of London. The city is also famous for its musical, maritime and sporting heritage.
* Oxford : now a busy commercial city, which also has a famous university.
* Portsmouth: Portsmouth is a naval dockyard, and has some famous ships on display, including the Mary Rose, and HMS Victory, all within its Historic Dockyard. Also home to Gunwharf Quays retail centre, with its iconic Spinnaker Tower.
* Salisbury: Salisbury cathedral is well known, and has the tallest spire in the country. Nearby is the pre-historic site of Stonehenge, which is administered by English Heritage.
* Stratford-upon-Avon: Shakespeare's birthplace is probably the most visited place in Stratford
* Wells: best known for Wells Cathedral
* York: Famous for York Minster. Also the location of the National Railway Museum and a wealth of preserved medieval streets and buildings, such as the Merchant Adventurers' Hall and the Shambles.
Ecotourism
England also has some unique natural environments, and has a significant Ecotourism industry:
* The Lake District, a national park with hills and lakes, including Windermere, the largest lake in England.
* The Peak District, a national park in Derbyshire.
* Dartmoor and Exmoor, national parks in Devon.
* The New Forest, a rural forest park in Hampshire.
* The Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage Site in Dorset and Devon
* The National Forest, covering parts of Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire.
* Center Parcs, a number of rural holiday parks.
* Plus various National Nature Reserves, Heritage Coasts and other protected areas.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN BANGLADESH
DHAKA the capital the capital of Bangladesh is Dhaka with its exciting history and rich culture, known the world over as the city of mosques and muslin; it has attracted travelers from far and nearer throughout in all the ages. It has a history dating back to earliest time. But the exact date of its foundation is not known. However, according to recorded history it was founded in 1608 A.D. as the seat of the imperial Mughal Viceroy of Bengal. Dhaka as the capital of Bangladesh has grown into a busy city of about seven million people with an area of about 815 sq. km. Having a happy blending of old and new architectural trends, Dhaka has been developing fast as a modern city and is throbbing with activities in all spheres of life. It is the centre of industrial commercial, cultural, educational and political activities for Bangladesh. At Tongi, Tejgaon, Demra, Pagla, kanchpur, the industrial establishments turn - out daily necessities. Motijheel is the main commercial area of the city.
CHITTAGONG - GATEWAY TO THE BAY OF BENGAL
With a picturesque hinterland of large hill forests and lakes. Chittagong is a good vacation spot. It is the second largest city of Bangladesh and a busy of Bangladesh and a busy international sea port. Its green hills and forests, broad sandy beaches and fine cool climate always attract holiday makers. It combines the hump of a restless seaport with the pleasure of a charming hill town with its undulating topography. Chittagong is the country's chief port and is the main site for the establishment of heavy, medium and light industries. Bangladesh's only steel mill and oil refinery are also located here. Chittagong is connected with Dhaka by rail, road, air and water. It is also connected with Cox's Bazar and Calcutta by Air.
1. Places of Interest: Sharine of Byazid Bostami : This holy shrine attracts a large number of visitors and pilgrims. At its base there is a large tank with several hundred tortoises floating in the water.
2. World War II Cemetery: In this well preserved cemetery at a quiet and picturesque place lie buried over 700 soldiers from Commonwealth countries and Japan. Source: www.travelbd.com
3.Foy's Lake: Set amidst panoramic surroundings, this ideal sport for outings and picnics is thronged by thousands of visitors.
4. Ethnological Museum: A unique treasure house of variety of tribal culture and heritage of Bangladesh.
HILL TRACTS DISTRICTS Hill Tracts Districts - world of panoramic beauty The hill Tracts Districts with its perenial forest, thrilling drives through hills and dales, emerald blue water of Kaptai lake, colourful tribal life and culture, attractive handicrafts and artisans beackons you to a world of panoramic beauty mother nature has so lavishly unfolded. Greater Hill Tracts is dividend into three districts, namely Rangamati, Khagrachari and Bandarban each one equally unique in its attractions.
RANGAMATI - THE HEART OF THE LAKE DISTRICT
From Chittagong a 77 km. road amidt green fields and winding hills will take you to Rangamati, the headquarters of Rangamati Hill District which is a wonderful repository of scenic splendours with flora and fauna of varied descriptions. The township is located on the western bank of the Kaptai lake. Rangamati is a favourite holiday resort because of its beautiful landscape, scenic beauty, lake, colourful tribes (Chakma, Marma etc.) its flora and fauna, tribal museum, hanging bridge, homespun textile products, ivory jewellery and the tribal men and women who fashion them. For tourists the attractions of Rangamati are numerous, tribal life, fishing, speed boat cruising, water skiing, hiking, bathing or merely enjoying nature as it is. Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation provides suitable hotel and cottage accommodation, catering, speed boat and other facilities at Rangamati.
KAPTAI
A pleasant and picturesque drive of 64 km. from Chitagong brings you to huge expanse of emerald and blue water ringed with tropical forest. It is the famous man made Kaptai lake (680 sq. km) formed by damming the Kamaphuli river. Only 3 km. from Kaptai along Chittagong Road, lies the ancient Chit Morong Buddist temple having beautiful Buddist statues. Other places of interest in the Hill Tract districts include Chandraghone, Khagrachari and Bandarban all in picturesque surrounding.
KUAKATA
A rare scenic beauty spot on the southernmost tip of Bangladesh in the district of Patuakhali. It has a wide sandy beach from where one can get the unique opportunity of seeing both the sunrise and sun setting. It is located at a distance of 70 km, from the district headquarters of Patuakhali. Access to the area is difficult.
MAINAMATI - SEAT OF LOST DYNASTIES
About eight km. to the west of Comilla town which is situated 114 km south east of Dhaka lies a range of low hills known as Mainamati-Lalmai ridge, an extensive centre of Buddhist culture. On the slopes of these hills lie scattered a treasure of information about the early Buddhist cMlization (7th-12th Centure A.D.). At Salban in the middle of the ridge, excavations laid bare a large Buddhist Vihara (monastery) and imposing central sharine. It has revealed valuable information about the rule of the Chandra and Deva dynasties which flourished here from the 7th to 12th century. The whole range of hillocks run for about 18 km. and is studded with more than 50 sites.
MAHASTHANGARH - THE OLDEST ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
Located at a distance of 18 km north of Bogra town. Mahasthangarh is the oldest archaeological site of Bangladesh on the western bank of river Karatoa. The spectacular site is an imposing landmark in the area having a fortified long enclosure. Beyond the fortified area, other ancient ruins fan out within a semicircle of about 8 km radius. Several isolated mounds, the local names of which are Govinda Bhita Temple, Khodia Pathar Mound, Mankalir Kunda, Parasuramer Bedi, Jiyat Kunda etc. surround the fortified city. This 3rd century B.C. archaeological site is still held to be of great sancitity by the Hindus. Every year (mid - April) and once in every 12 years (December) thousands of Hindu devotees join the bathing ceremony on the bank of river Karatoa.
RAJSHAI - A NATURAL SILK PRODUCING CENTRE
Rajshahi has seen the most glorious periods of Bengal's Pala dynasty. It is famous for pure silk, mangoes and lichis. Attractive silk products are cheaper. A visit to Varendra Research Museum at the heart of the city of rich archaeological finds, would be most rewarding. There are also a number of ancient mosques, shrines and temples in and around Rajshahi. Connected with Dhaka by road, rail, river and air, Rajshahi is located on the bank of the Padma river.
NATORE PLACE OF DIGHPATIYA RAJBARI
About 40km. from Rajshahi by road is Natore, an old seat of Maharajas with a beautiful palace, now serving as the Uttara Ganabhaban (President's Official residence of the northern region). It was residence of the Dighapatiya Raj.
PAHARPUR - THE LARGEST BUDDHIST SEAT OF LEARNING
Paharpur is a small village 5 km. west of Jamalganj in the greater Rajshahi district where the remains of the most important and the largest known monastery south of the Himalayas has been excavated. This 7th century archaeological find covers approximately an area of 27 acres of land. The entire establishment, occupying a quadrangular cout, measuring more than 900 ft. and from 12 ft. to 15th. in height. With elaborate gateway complex on the north there are 45 cells on the north and 44 in each of the other three sides with a total number of 177 rooms.
MYMENSINGH - THE HEART OF BENGAL'S FOLKLORE
From the foot of the Garo Hills in the north down to the plains of Dhaka in the south lies greater Mymensingh. Along the northern frontier of the district there are many aboriginal tribes such as Garos, Hajongs and Kochis who are ethnically quiet distinct from the people around them. Mymensingh has earned a notable position in Bengali literature as the birth place or rich folklores and folk songs. On the road from Dhaka to mymensing there is a national park and game sanctuary at Madhupur about 160 km. from Dhaka. There are a number of reserve forests in the area with rest houses and picnic spots. World famous painter Zainul Abedin's Art Gallery at Mymensingh carries the boyhood memories of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam.
VISA
Restricted entry: The government of Bangladesh refuses admission and transit to nationals of Israel. - PASSPORTS: Passport valid for 3 months after departure required by all. VISAS: Required by all except the following: (a) nationals of Bahamas, Fiji, Gambia, Grenada, Guinea-Bissau, Jamaica, Guyana, Honduras, Lesotho, Malawi, Montserrat, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent & the Grenadines, Seychelles, Solomon Islands, Vatican City and Zambia for stays of up to 90 days; (b) transit passengers continuing their journey the same for first connecting aircraft provided holding valid onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport;(c) tourist and business travellers arriving at Zia, Dhaka and Patenga international airports, provided holding return air tickets, who may be granted 'landing permission' by the by the Chief Immigration Officer for stays of up to 15 days.
Visas for Bangladesh
Restricted entry: The government of Bangladesh refuses admission and transit to nationals of Israel.
Passports: Passport valid for 3 months after departure required by all.
Visas: Required by all except the following:
(a) Nationals of Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Bhutan, Dominica, Fiji, Gambia, Grenada, Guinea-Bissau, Jamaica, Guyana, Honduras, Lesotho, Malawi, Maldives, Montserrat, Papua New Guinea, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent & the Grenadines, Seychelles, Solomon Islands, Uruguay, Vatican City and Zambia for stays of up to 90 days.
(b) Transit passengers continuing their journey the same for first connecting aircraft provided holding valid onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport.
(c) Tourist and business travellers arriving at Zia international airport, Dhaka and Patenga international airport, provided holding return air tickets, who may be granted 'landing permission' by the Chief Immigration Officer for stays of up to 15 days.
Note: Visas are not required by Bangladesh nationals nor by former Bangladesh nationals holding British passports provided they have the statement' no visa required for travel to Bangladesh' stamped in their passport by the Bangladesh High Commission. Please also note any foreign visitor overstaying the allotted period may be charged a fine for each day of overstay.
Types of visa: Entry, Visit, Tourist and. Entry visas may be issued for short conference or journalistic trips (although not for business trips).
Validity: Single- and Double entry: 6 months from date of issue. Multiple-entry: 6-12 months from date of issue. Stays are for a maximum of 90 days each.
Application to: Consular Section at Embassy or High Commission.
Application requirements:
(a) Valid passport.
(b) 2 completed application forms.
(c) 2 passport-size photos.
(d) Fee. Source: www.travelbd.com
(e) Letter from employer or other relevant letters for business and conference trips.
Working days required: 24 hours for a single-entry visa; 48 hours for other types of visa. 7-10 days for postal applications.
Some useful Tips for travelers in Bangladesh
Make sure you have the proper health/immunization requirements.
Carry as much currency in travelers checks as possible.
Keep a copy of all documents and credit card information in a safe place.
Find out some information about your destination. It is to your advantage to know some basic phrases in the local language, basic facts, places of interest, how to get around etc.
Check all your travel documents to make sure that they are in order. Passports should be valid for a few months after your return date.
Bring your address and telephone book. Make sure you have jotted down important telephone numbers in case of emergency.
Check the weather conditions of your destination.
Essential Safety Information for Travellers in Bangladesh
Before you travel, make sure you passport is valid and will not be expire while you are away. Most of the country will not except your passport if it has expired.
Always take good care of your passport. Don't give or handover your passport to anyone. You need that to go and come in every country of the world. Without a passport you will not be able to get in the plane.
Keep your passport with you at all times. If you are visiting friends or family, make sure that your passport is in a safe place. If you are in a hotel or shopping around the town, always check on it.
Do you have a duplicate copy of your passport? If not, make at least 3 photo copies of your passport. Leave one behind at your permanent address, 2nd copy with you when you traveling but not with the original passport (or keep it with your traveling companion). Incase you lose your passport; you would need the photocopy for your identification. While making photocopy, make sure to copy all the relevant pages of your passport (mainly the page with your photo and profile)
If you have a scanner - scan you passport and send it to your own e-mail address. It could be very helpful incase if you lose your passport and photocopy can't be located.
If incase, you lost your passport, notify the local police authority and contact your embassy immediately. Do not delay on reporting the lost of your passport. Your travel arrangement might
When it comes to traveling abroad, first piece of document you need is a passport. It is the most important document. Following are some of the very you should keep in mind: be delayed due to lost of your passport.
Where else do you need a passport?
If you pulled over or stopped by the law enforcement officers in a foreign country, passport is you first identity along with your international drivers license.
If you like to use your credit card for your shopping need, passport can be used as your identification.
LOOK FOR TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) FOLLOWING SERVICES
Guided Tour Packages & Sightseeing Languages Guide Budget Hotel/Guest House/Resort Booking Issue & confirmation of Air/Railway/Bus/Steamer Ticket ?River Cruise & Lake Cruise ?Honeymoon Trips Travel Management (Tours/Visit/Excursion/Wild Life Safari) Camping Program/Hiking/Trekking Management of Picnics/Get-Together Catering Service Cultural Program Seminars Exhibition ?Rent a Car/Boat/Helicopter. Contact Address:
TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD Head Office, 33 North Kafrul, Dhaka-1206, Bangladesh.
Phone: +880 2 9890075, Mobile: +88 018279513, email: info@travelbd.com , web site URL: www.travelbd.com
Monday, 11 January 2010
World Tourist Places
TOURISM - BEST TOURIST PLACES
Ostrog - monastery
When you first find yourself in front of the monastery of Ostrog, your primary thought will be that it is not created by a man; this glorious monastery located above the Bjelopavlic valley, carved in rocks as though keeping century old secrets of this shrine. Metropolitan Vasilije (Saint Basil) founded the monastery of Ostrog in 17th century. The most magnificent part of Ostrog is the Upper monastery. There are two churches: the upper church dedicated to Holy Cross and the lower church in Upper monastery is dedicated to Vavedenje of Holy Mary. People of all religions and nations visit Ostrog.
Boka - The Bay of Kotor
The Bay of Kotor is one of the most beautiful bays of the world. It consists of four connected straits. High cliffs that surround the bay from all sides reflect in the deep blue waters of the Adriatic Sea. Seven island decorate the Bay of Kotor: Saint Marco (Sveti Marko), the island of Mamula, the island of Our Lady of the Rock (Gospa od Skrpjela), Saint George (Sveti Djordje), the island of Milosrdja, the island of Flowers (Ostrvo cveca), and the smallest island of little Mother of God (Mala Gospa). The road lining the Bay of Kotor passes though a chain of cities that can enlighten the traveler, each by their unique characteristics and history.Lovcen - mountain, mausoleum
Mountain of Lovcen rises above the coastal region and is the backdrop of the city of Kotor. This mountainous region plays an important role in the consciousness of Montenegrin people. Lovcen is a symbol of state and national identity. The peaks named Stirovnik and Jezerski vrh is where the mausoleum of Petar II Petrovic Njegos, one of the greatest poets, philosophers and statesmen of Montenegro, is located. Lovcen has an abundantly valuable building heritage, summer pastures and village gumnos.Durmitor - mountain
Because of its indescribable beauty and untouched nature, as early as 1952, Durmitor was proclaimed a National park. National park Durmitor spreads from the mountain massive of Durmitor with canyons of the rivers Tara, Susica and Draga to the canyon valley of the river Komarnica. Giant Durmitor abounds in imposing mountaintops and numerous glacier lakes surrounded by rich evergreen forests. Plentiful flora and fauna of Durmitor attracts many nature lovers.Sveti Stefan - coast
One of the most precious gifts of nature to Montenegro is the peninsula of Sveti Stefan (Saint Stephen). Legend says that the local Pastrovici family, started building on this peninsula with captured Turk treasure in 15th century. Today, it is an attractive city-hotel with villas and apartments that display magnificent views to the sea horizon. On the peninsula Sveti Stefan there are also rich cultural and historic heritage left behind by its original inhabitants. 
