Awesome Reasons To Visit South India

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The vast majority of tourists to India head to the northern territories, where they find the incredible Taj Mahal and the rest of the Golden Triangle that is always such a popular draw. But for those looking for something different, why not head south? Explorers and travelers who want to see the real India, away from the general tourist traps, will find a lot on offer in the south, and I’m going to go through a few of the key attractions you should check out. Let’s get started right away.

Goa

Goa is a popular destination for party animals from all over the world, and for very good reasons. It’s one of the best places on the planet for nightlife, and its psychedelic beach parties are the stuff of legend. However, anyone going to Goa should take some time out from the 24-hour partying and explore the wider environment. As an old Portuguese colony, the cities of Old Goa and Panaji are perfect for exploring, and provide visitors with a beautiful mix of Indian and Mediterranean cultural influences. Some of the ancient churches and cathedrals are now on the UNESCO World Heritage list, so well worth checking out.

The temples

According to West Nature Cottages, southern Indian destinations such as Ooty and Tamil Nadu are great places for finding some spirituality on your trip to India. Many honeymooners head to these locations to enjoy the vast array of Hindu temples and the gorgeous natural environment they all inhabit. In fact, it’s fair to say that you won’t see a town or city without dozens of temples, and some of them are truly spectacular. Make sure you head down to Madurai, too, to check out the incredible Meenakshi Amman temple that is an amazing feat of architecture from ancient times.

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The beaches

If you want to have a laze on a beautiful Indian beach, head south - but avoid the more traditional areas such as Goa, Varkala, and Kovalam. Instead, explore further afield and head to Pondicherry or the Marina Beach in Chennai. Both beaches are beautiful places that offer the ultimate in relaxation - to almost spiritual levels. Watching the sun go down behind the sea while drinking chai is one of life’s most remarkable experiences - don’t miss out!

Wildlife

Wildlife lovers tend to choose Africa, but there is much to enjoy in South India, too - perhaps more than you might think. Tigers are, of course, the biggest draw for most people, although they tend to be incredibly elusive and hard to spot, even when traveling with a guide. Leopards are common, however, as are Asiatic elephants and the fantastic sambar and gaur. The Indian safari can be just as spectacular as its African cousin, so head south and experience one for yourself.

The locals

Finally, you can expect a warm welcome from South Indian locals, who always tend to be full of smiles and offers of help. Being offered hospitality from complete strangers is common, and even if you are a shy type, it won’t take much for the locals to get you talking!

European Cities: Tips To Ensure You See The Best Of The Best

One of the best things about Europe is the fantastic cities that are situated on the continent. In fact, travelers visit from far and wide to see everything the cities has to offer. After all, they have a wealth of culture and sights which leave people amazed. However, when making a trip to one of the cities, it’s so important to ensure you see everything it has to offer. After all, you don’t want to come home feeling disappointed that you never got to see a specific landmark. Therefore, here are some tips you need when visiting a European city so that you see the best of the best during your trip.





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Get a guide book

It’s always a good idea to get a guide book whenever you are going to a new destination. For one thing, these books normally include a handy map which will come in useful when trying to hunt down the attractions. Also, the guidebook will give in detail about the particular landmarks and attractions you need to see. In fact, they might mention ones which you have never heard of before. And this will stop you missing out on something which is top class during your trip. You can pick up guidebooks in your local store or online. Just make sure that whichever one you get, it’s not too outdated. After all, you don’t want to make your way to an attraction which doesn’t exist anymore! And make sure you don’t go for a book which is too large. Otherwise, it will weigh you down when you are trying to walk around the city!

Read travelers blogs

You should also get advice from a traveler who has been to the city before. After all, they are going to have some tips and advice about what they experienced. And what they wished they had done differently. You could firstly ask a friend if they have been to the city before. And if you don’t know anyone who has been to the city, you should consider looking online at travelers blogs. They will have some great advice about going to certain cities and what you should do while you are there. For example, you can check out our previous blogs for tips on going to cities like Monaco. And then you will be clued up to have a great trip.

Go on an escorted tour

You might feel a bit blind if you are going to a new city. After all, a lot of the large cities like Rome and Paris can feel like a minefield. And it’s easy to end up not getting to see the best the city has to offer. But if you do need some help, you might want to consider going on an escorted tour. With these tours, they will ensure you see all the major landmarks and attractions. And they can give you a taste of the lifestyle and traditions too while you are there. You will also be around other travelers, and you are bound to meet new friends. And companies like Travelsphere will even organise your flights and hotels, so you don’t have anything to sort!






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Befriend a local

Sometimes the best tips about a city can come from a local themselves. After all, they have a wealth of knowledge to ensure you get to see everything the city has to offer. And as well as guiding you to the best attractions, they can tell you about some places to avoid too. After all, you don’t want to end up in danger. Therefore, you should befriend a local to get wised up about a location. You can find people in the local area who are willing to give you tips and advice if you look online before you go. Or head to local restaurants and bars in your resort for friendly staff who will help you to have a great trip!

Book tours online before you go

If you decide to go ahead and plan your trips once you arrive in the city, you might miss out on good attractions and landmarks. After all, you might not know about everything that is available in the city. Therefore, before you go, you should plan out your trip in detail. You can even book tours online which will include particular attractions. That way, you know you will definitely not miss out on anything during your trip. Also, you should consider looking some form of citypass for your destination. A lot of the cities do these, and it will mean you can go to all the major attractions!



And remember to sort your transport before you go. It might be worth getting a ticket to a hop on, hop off bus or boat to ensure you get around the city easily.





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Deciding on a Vacation Destination

(Photo credit: Steve Richey/unsplash.com)

Do you want to take that special someone on a getaway that she will never forget? If this is the case, there are certainly many places that you can go. However, you should put some effort into your decision. Doing some planning in advance will make it much more likely that your vacation will turn out to be a smashing success.

There are a number of factors that you need to consider. Obviously, every vacation destination has its own set of variables that will become part of the equation. However, there are a few considerations that should remain constant regardless of where you are planning to go.

Here are some helpful hints that you can utilize during your quest to find the perfect place to take your vacation.


1. Will there be a lot of tourists?

People go on vacation for different reasons. For example, many people like to see famous landmarks and other tourist attractions that have a great historical significance. However, there are other people who do not want to deal with the large crowds that are inevitable when you go to see popular tourist attractions. These people simply want to relax and enjoy some peace and quiet. What type of vacation are you looking to have? Knowing the answer to this question will make it much easier for you to find the ideal location for you and your significant other to enjoy.


2. Do you want to take your vacation in an area that is surrounded by nature? 

Are you someone who enjoys nature and all of the beauty that goes along with it? There are obviously some vacation destinations that will provide you with a much greater nature experience than others. For example, Beavers Bend cabin lodging is in a scenic area that is peaceful and quiet.


3. What activities will be available to you during your stay?

You might be an avid skier. You might enjoy kayaking occasionally. You need to verify in advance that these activities will be available before you book any reservations. Get a complete list of all the activities that the vacation destination has available. These should be listed on their website. You can then determine if there will be enough activities to keep you occupied while you are there. If not, look for a place that has the activities that you are interested in doing.

Your Australian Adventure Begins: Discover Victoria

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If you’re planning on an Australian adventure this year, and plan to visit Melbourne, expand your trip throughout Victoria. As Australia’s most densely populated state, it offers a thriving cultural scene, along with unrivalled coastal and wildlife experiences. Everything is easily accessible, within a few hours drive. Fly directly into Melbourne Airport from numerous worldwide destinations.

Melbourne

You can’t visit Victoria without spending some time in its capital city. This sprawling metropolis is located on the bay of Port Phillip and expands outwards to the Dandenongs, Mornington Peninsula, and Yarra Valley. Take the City Circle Tram which stops at many areas of note. Grab a coffee on the banks of the Yarra River. Melbourne boasts the highest density of cafes and restaurants in the world, so you’ll be spoiled for choice.

A unique way to experience the city and everything it has to offer is via the Eureka Skydeck. This is the tallest viewing platform in the southern hemisphere and provides outstanding views of the city and surrounding areas.

Shopaholics will love Queen Victoria Market. It is one of the largest open-air markets in the world and is open five days a week.

Ballarat

Located on the Yarrowee River in the Grampians region of Victoria, Ballarat is a short drive from Melbourne. Hotels like The Lake View Hotel in Ballarat provide a friendly and comfortable stay. Enjoy the elegant buildings of Victoria’s largest inland city and immerse yourself in its rich history. Here you can enjoy theatre, fine art, and delicious local cuisine. Or explore the banks of Lake Wendouree and stroll around the stunning botanical gardens.

Dandenongs And Yarra Valley Wineries

Wine buffs will love exploring Victoria’s wine region. Sample the local wines and take in the magnificent views by hot air balloon.

The Dandenong ranges are just an hour out of Melbourne. Visitors enjoy discovering this area on foot, by car, or by Puffing Billy, the area’s historic steam train.

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The Great Ocean Road

Travel light and take a trip along the Great Ocean Road from Torquay to Allansford. This is one of Australia’s most famous road trip routes. You’ll drive through stunning coastal towns, rainforests, and under canopies of lush trees. There are lots of isolated beaches to discover, along with lighthouses and thick forests. You could spend at least a week travelling this route and still not see everything.

Yarra River

The banks of the Yarra River are a great place to dine as the light begins to fade. The city’s lights are reflected in the water as you eat at one of the region’s most sought-after restaurants. Cuisine covers everything from traditional fare to French, Italian, and Japanese. There’s plenty of choice and something to suit all pockets.

If you’re considering a trip to Australia, be sure to take in the stunning Victoria region with its bustling cities, stunning coastline, and beautiful forests. You can shop, hike, surf, eat, or find an isolated beach and while away the days. Each member of the family is catered for in terms of food, accommodation, and activities. And you’ll be assured a warm Aussie welcome.

Your November Travel Guide for 2016 is Here

** This post contains affiliate links. I will get a small compensation when you click and make a purchase.



Are you planning a trip this winter time? How about getting some inspirations for a trip in the offing? undecided of the destination or simply looking for a short getaway this coming holidays? What ever the reason may be, your November Travel Guide is loaded with plenty of prime destinations to visit.

Check it out!

These offers are valid up to 29 November 2016.

October Travel Guide

Hello October! It's pretty cool now and the influx of travellers last summer are all back to their regular day-to-day lives. Now's the perfect time to enjoy a cool travel before the cold months creep in.

So, if you're planning to enjoy a cool weather getaway this October, check out this month's Travel Guide for you.

OCTOBER TRAVEL GUIDE

Pattaya: The Gem Of Thailand's East Coast

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Since its beginnings as a sleepy little sleeping village, Pattaya has thrived to become one of the most prominent resort cities in all of Asia. Famous for the way its bustling nightlife intermingles with ancient religious treasures, this city is the gem of Thailand’s east coast, and that reputation certainly isn’t going anywhere! If you’re planning a stop in this fascinating city, here are some of the attractions you should really make a point of seeing.

Walking Street, South Pattaya

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If you’re stressed out from the hours of air travel and all the complications that come with it, then Walking Street should be your first stop in Pattaya. The incredible sounds and sights here are unlike anything you’ll find in other Thai destinations. This 500-metre strip is the centre of the famous Pattaya Thailand nightlife. Every other building you’ll see is a bar, club, or high-end restaurant, making it the perfect place to unwind while getting your first taste of the local culture. During the day, it’s almost empty and everything is closed. After 6pm though, all the traffic stops and the clubs open their doors. This is where the name “Walking Street” comes from. This is the one sure-fire place to experience a nightlife vastly different from what you’re used to, so make sure you don’t miss out!

Nong Nooch, Na Jomtien

Source: Wikimedia

After all that partying on Walking Street, you’ll probably want to chill out for a while, and maybe go a little easier on that pain in your head! Nong Nooch is a beautiful tropical garden, stretching almost three kilometres and full of some of the most beautiful horticulture you may ever see. You don’t need to be a landscaping enthusiast to appreciate the sheer amount of care and work that’s gone into this garden. You’ll be able to learn something about the local climate by checking out over 670 hybrids of Thai orchids, and avoid homesickness with some of their prim European gardens. Nong Nooch also plays host to regular Thai boxing, drumming and dancing displays, which will really give you a taste for the country’s amazing culture.

Floating Market, Jomtien

Source: Wikimedia

No holiday would be complete without some shopping, and in Pattaya there’s only one place for it; the Four Regions Floating Market. Though you may be on the east coast, this is where you can sample the rich varieties of culture that exist throughout the country. The market is structured based on the North, South, East and West of Thailand, and is teeming with dozens of fascinating shops and stalls. From local cuisine to crafts to clothing, you’ll find it all here in this fascinating district. You may be wondering about the name. Well, Pattaya’s floating market is built on a river that runs towards the coastline, and dozens of the vendors there do indeed float! As you walk around the shops, you’ll see people in traditional Thai canoes drifting by with all kinds of local curiosities on display. The rest make up a beautiful stilted village with quaint covered walkways and bridges.

Read This Before Visitng Paris!

Paris is one of the most romantic and cosmopolitan cities in Europe. Now that’s really saying something! When you visit this amazing metropolis, you see immediately why so many people make it a stop on round-the-world trips. Although beautiful, Paris is also pretty fast-paced and frantic. If you’re planning to visit Paris, then here are some tips to help you avoid sticking out too much!

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The first tip I can offer is to learn at least a few French phrases. In France, like a lot of continental Europe, English is widely taught and spoken. You’ll usually be able to find someone who speaks decent English, but they may not always be that friendly! Although a lot of Parisians do speak English, many of them are very proud of their language and culture. If you approach them and begin speaking in English, they won’t appreciate how presumptuous you’re being. No one’s expecting you to be fluent, but learning a few common words and phrases will be highly appreciated. I’ll start you off with one you’ll be using a lot: “parlez-vous un petit peu d’anglais?”.

You should be on the lookout for pickpockets in Paris, particularly when you’re passing through metro stations. This is a big risk in any European city, especially if you’re a tourist. The worst spots for it are on the metro, on lines that go past many popular attractions. French pickpockets know a tourist a mile off, and will see you as an easy target. Luckily, there are some easy ways around this. The easiest precaution to take is simply making your valuables harder to reach. Put them in smaller pockets deep in your bag, rather than carrying them on your person. Stay vigilant about common tactics as well. Many pickpockets wait for that crushing swarm of people getting on or off a train to dip their hands into people’s bags and pockets. You can find a more complete guide on the French US Embassy website.

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Finally, be sure to get a lot of navigation materials if you’re planning to get around yourself. Most tourists in Paris, and a lot of the locals to be honest, rely entirely on public transport. This is mainly due to how hard it is to get around in a car! Paris is a truly ancient settlement, and many of the roads were built for horses and coaches. This of course leads to a lot of traffic jams. There are odd-angled boulevards and avenues wherever you go, and finding somewhere to park can be an absolute nightmare. This has given rise to a lot of services such as Paris France Parking. This allows travellers and day-trippers to reserve spaces on certain roads. In general, my advice about driving in Paris is not to! If you are though, make sure to research rush hours, routes to attractions, and parking.

Hopefully, these three tips will do something about the big “tourist” label hanging over your head! Visiting Paris can feel a little daunting. However, a little preparation really goes a long way!

Why Hawaii Should Be Your Next Travel Destination

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Planning your next holiday and looking for inspiration? The world is a big old place, and there is a lot to choose from. Well, how about Hawaii? It’s a far-flung destination for many, so you might not know much about it. Here are some reasons why it should be your next travel destination.

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First of all, if you’re looking for good weather and the sunshine, Hawaii is one place where your hunt will go well! Thanks to how close it is to the equator, it is hot! Sure, the winter is a wetter time, but temperatures here are still pretty steady. You should appreciate the rain also; it helps keep the island as lush and green as it is. In the summer months, you’ll enjoy the hot sunshine, long days and warm air. Lovely! http://www.govisithawaii.com/hawaii-weather/ will give you more of an insight into the weather.

Ever heard of the Aloha spirit? This is what the locals regard their friendly natures and attitude towards life. It will come your way in the way they speak to you, and even serve you. It’s not just about how they act; is is so to be a way to achieve a strong state of mind. This can, in turn, help you achieve goals, sort out problems or just live a better life. You’ll get a real-life lesson in the Aloha spirit if you visit, as you’ll be able to witness it with your own eyes. You could pick up some tips for your own well-being, or habits to adopt for your return home. Learn more about the Aloha spirit at http://www.huna.org/html/deeper.html.

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Now, if you’re on the hunt for good weather, you’re probably on the hunt for a great beach. Well, Hawaii has loads! 400 public beaches, in fact, across 750 miles of Hawaiian shoreline. Don’t just expect goldens sands, either. There are also beaches made of black, red, white and even green sand! Find out more about the last one at http://www.greensandbeachhawaii.com/!

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Want to see something other than golden sea and turquoise sand? Happily, Hawaii has loads of culture and activities to enjoy. It may be the 50th state of the United States, but the culture is very different. Everyone in Hawaii is a minority, thanks to the fact that so many of the residents are from elsewhere. You’ll find Chinese, Japanese, Latinos and many more living here harmoniously alongside each other. This makes for a rich culture that seeps into every area of life. Expect a diverse range of food, music, architecture and more as a result. Find out more about culture in Hawaii over at http://bestinbeach.com/.

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Like to shop? Hawaii has its own designer collection of shops, including Yves St Laurent and Chanel, both of which are in Waikiki. Like to walk? Expect stunning canyons, volcanoes, sea cliffs and more. Hawaii Island, which is also known as Big Island, is home to waterfalls, tropical rainforests and a volcanic landscape. These can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from on foot to on horseback. Some places are so high and remote you can’t even access them on foot. Take Maui’s Honokohau Falls, for instance; the best way to see this incredible natural wonder is in a helicopter! Like to surf? You’re in luck! Whether you’re a novice or a professional, there will be a beach and waves for you. http://www.surfertoday.com/surfing/7056-the-best-hawaiian-surf-spots lists some of the island’s best surf spots.

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The UK’s Best City Breaks

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Plenty of towns and cities around the UK have been investing in their tourist attractions, meaning even towns like Bolton and Wakefield have become great day-time destinations. For something that lasts a little longer, check out these cities for a really great long weekend or full week away.

Our glorious capital: London

It might sound like stating the obvious, but London is a much-overlook destination for vacation time. There’s a reason people flock from all over the world to visit it: London has become one of the world’s great cities with enough to keep you entertained for weeks on end.

There are the historical sights to visit if you’ve never been before, including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, but if you want to discover something a little less tourist-focussed, be sure to check out the various art galleries that are dotted throughout the city along with the world-class food available on almost every street.

Northern soul: Manchester

The well-worn saying “It’s grim up north” is no longer applicable to the fantastic city of Manchester. The birth-place of alternative culture, there’s a reason why some of the world’s greatest musicians hail from this inspirational and endlessly entertaining city.

A great spot for a shopping trip with friends (with a great range of mixed-price shops for all wallets) to romantic getaways, Manchester offers the kind of cultural experiences you’ll find in London but on a much more relaxed scale in a way that only the Northerners of this country can produce.

Breezy shores: Whitby

If you think it’s impossible to have a great seaside holiday in the UK, you obviously have never visited
Whitby. Ideal for those who their seaside resorts to be less about two-penny slot machines and more about great gothic scenery and fantastic food, Whitby is a fantastic break location.

Great at all times of years, you might not want to go dipping in the sea outside of the depths of summer, but there’s much more to Whitby than sea and sand. Victorian and gothic culture lines the streets making it a mecca for those of an alternative leaning.

If you’re still not sure about the quality of British mini-breaks, there are plenty of others out there that are hoping to convince you of otherwise. Reviews on the likes of OntheBeach are there to persuade you – so what are you waiting for?

Top Tips To Research Your Next Travel Destination

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Are you heading away soon? Congratulations on booking your flights and having the guts to try something new! Trust me – you won’t regret it because there is no better experience than travelling the world. But, before you fly away for the foreseeable future, you need to do your research. Research is essential because it makes life so much easier, and it also makes you aware of any possible dangers. There is not one way to do your research, so you want to have as many options as possible.

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor is a great place to start, especially if you already have a destination in mind. The website is full of people who have already been to the places that you want to experience, so there’s lots of feedback. Not all the feedback is great or worth listening to because it might not correlate with what you want to do or with your personality. But, it will give you a broad idea of how the place works and what it is going to be like.

Google

Google is the king of search engines. There is not another search engine on the Internet that can match Google’s popularity, which makes it an easy choice for your research. A simple Google search will show you everything that you need to know about the region, from the history to the current affairs. One thing lots of travelers tend to neglect is the current situation of the region, but that can have a big impact on your visit. Thankfully, with Google there is a ‘News’ section that will tell you everything you need to know about the country in the present day.

Travel Blogs

Just like you, there are like-minded people that love to travel. And, these people also like to document their time they spent travelling for the benefit of others. These bloggers are the salt of the Earth because they are generously helping others around them to enjoy their experiences. A good travel blog that you trust is an incredible tool in the research process. In fact, you can find out all you need to know from some of the best travel blogs on the web.

Indigenous Websites

The best place to find information on the country is a website that writes about the country. Answers Africa, for example, is a site that details everything African, from Boko Haram to Mount Kilimanjaro. On there, you will learn a lot about the ‘real’ Africa as opposed to the one that you see in travel brochures. As a result, you will be far more prepared when you do land in the country, and the culture smacks you in the face.

Government Websites

Most countries have a website that tells you what you need to know about the country before you travel. They will tell you about the places to visit, the places to avoid, the currency and the injections you need to name but a few. From an administrative point of view, these sites are a Godsend.

4 Crazy Things To Do In the Galapagos Islands

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Visiting the Galapagos Islands is always a thrill, but some activities are more exciting than others. If you'd like to break away from traditional tour groups and really stretch your wings during your holiday, here are four fun, crazy things to do in the Galapagos.


1: Swim With The Sharks

Dive into the waters of Kicker Rock to snorkel like you've never snorkeled before. What makes the area so unique? Well, it's home to a group of hammerhead sharks! The guides promise that they're domesticated enough not to attack swimmers, but you never know.


2: Break A Sweat In The Lava Tunnels

There's a little-known series of caves near Santa Cruz where old volcanic eruptions have formed lava tunnels. It's a beautiful, breathtaking attraction if you're brave enough to try it!


3: Climb A Canopy

You're not afraid of heights, right? Trek to the top of Cerro Azul for an incredible aerial view of the entire island. Then zipline your way back to solid ground!


4: Feed The Sea Lions

All visitors stop by Darwin's famous island, but few are willing to explore beyond the cliffs and into Las Loberias, a beautiful bay where you can play in the water with turtles, trout and sea lions. The lions will even accept food right out of your hand!



These are just a few ways to break free of conventional "tourist" activities and really make the most of your trip to the Galapagos Islands. It's a one-of-a-kind place, so you should give yourself a one-of-a-kind experience!

St. Patrick's Festival in Dublin, Ireland

St. Patrick's Festival is an annual celebration held in Dublin, Ireland. It was established in November 1995. Since then, it has become a well-known celebration around the world, making the Irish proud of their ancestry, talents and skills shown throughout the world.

Today is St. Patrick's Day and revelries are ringing around Dublin on this joyous occasion to celebrate St. Patrick.

All photos below are from http://www.stpatricksfestival.ie/.

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

The Beautiful River of Five Colors in Columbia

Have you ever seen a river with many colors? This river's water is not colored but the thriving ecosystem in and around it gives the river a unique character, complete with vibrant colors of yellow, blue, black, green and red. These colors are attributed from the river bed, sedimentary rocks, lush green vegetation and the red plants called Macarenia clavigera.

There are plenty of small circular pits found in this river called Giant's Kettle. They are naturally formed by small pebbles that fall in the pit. They are rotated by the warm water movement around the pits which increases the dimension of the pits.

The River of Five Colors is also known as The Liquid Rainbow and the local term Cano Cristales. It is located in Serrania de la Macarena, in the province of Meta, Columbia.

There are no camps in this area to protect the river and the surrounding vegetation. Travelers who wish to see this place can take a cargo plane or a direct flight coming from Bogota.

Below are photos taken by Olivier Grunewald.