Mi-iraj

Dubai International Peace Convention (DIPC)

2010-02-21T00:20:00.000+05:30

Dubai International Peace Convention
"aiming global unity through peace"
18th, 19th & 20th March 2010
at Airport Expo, Dubai
For Details log on to http://www.peaceconvention.com/

Islam, the Official religion of UAE

2009-08-08T18:46:00.006+05:30

www.islamtomorrow.com
www.youtubeislam.com
www.searchforislam.com
www.islamcode.com
islamnewsroom.com
http://99islam.com/
http://prophetofislam.com/
http://scienceislam.com/
http://shareislam.com/

The Dubai Mall

2008-11-07T20:38:00.000+05:30

The Dubai Mall - A place like no other. A new day, a new dawn. From the wind swept sands, a new legend rises. A mall of epic proportions that is named The Dubai Mall.

World's largest shopping mall includes the world's largest Aquarium..

The Dubai Mall reinvents the traditional custom of trade in the world’s largest indoor Gold Souk

Summer festival ends today

2008-08-22T08:51:00.001+05:30

Sixty five days of sunny, summer festival will end today with celebrations taking place at Modhesh Fun City (MFC).

The highlight of DSS 2008 was the inclusion of the 'Tens of Surprises' theme where instead of Ten Surprises, numerous international entertainment shows were organised to provide visitors with an array of activities to choose from.

Along, with Tens of Surprises, signature event from previous editions of DSS were also included.

Laila Suhail, chief executive of Dubai Shopping Festival Office, speaking to Gulf News said, "We have marked Dubai with another successful DSS edition."

The main attraction for this summer was MFC. The venue saw over 400,000 visitors during the festival. For an even organised by DSS, this was the biggest number yet, officials said.

Ahmad Ali, manager of MFC said the location "proved to be the favourite destination for families during DSS with hundreds of thousands of visitors within Dubai and the UAE, and from all around the region."

Khulood Al Thani, marketing manager of DSF Office said, "Apart from targeting the GCC, Middle East, North Africa, and Europe markets, the DSF Office ventured into China and Japan, two new markets that we will be exploring in the coming years."

Suhail said the response from the shopping malls in Dubai was positive, as they had a great number of visitors and large consumer spending.

"Every year there is an improvement in the quality of events and sponsor satisfaction," she said, adding that the objective of keeping every single mall busy was achieved.

Source

More Snaps from Madinat Jumaira..

2008-08-16T21:16:00.000+05:30

Madinat Jumaira, Dubai

2008-08-15T21:57:00.000+05:30

It was a wonderful experience in Madinat Jumaira, Dubai.. Here I'm giving some snaps from the wonderful world of Madinat Jumaira..
Entrance..

Is it in artificial Lake..?

You will tell it's natural when you go for a boat ride..

Wonderful !!!, isn't it..?

Festivals in Kerala, "The God's own Country.."

2008-08-14T21:46:00.000+05:30

Kerala is a land of colourful festivals, which have a long history and tradition behind them. Kerala's innumerable festivals however stand out because of their uniqueness.

Onam
Onam is the most famous festival of Kerala. All Malayali's irrespective of religion celebrates it. It falls in the Malayalam month of Chingam (Aug-Sept). It is the harvest festival of Kerala.

Vallamkali or Boat Races

This is a typical keralite festival of boat races. It is held in August in the Punnamada Kayal, which commemorates the visit of former Prime Minister, Late Jawaharlal Nehru to Alleppey.

The World- Dubai, Video

2008-08-12T21:47:00.000+05:30

DUBAI - Some Snaps..

2008-08-12T00:17:00.000+05:30

General Travel Safety advice

2008-08-10T21:49:00.000+05:30

1) Low Profile: Wear minimum jewelery, casual clothes, and keep cameras inside a discrete bag. Try to relax and look like you belong there.

2) Danger Zones: Be particularly aware of your safety in crowded areas such as local festivals, markets, crowded tourist sites, railway and bus stations, and of course, on trains and buses. Sometimes it pays to go first class or hire a guide.

3) Stash your Cash: Avoid wallets or purses. Keep enough money for your immediate needs in your (button down/zippered?) pocket, and the rest hidden on your body or, better, inside a *locked bag in a safety deposit box. Have different forms of funds in different places. Remember your air ticket and films are valuable too.

Deoksugung Palace- Korea

2008-08-05T22:05:00.001+05:30

Located at the corner of Seoul's busiest downtown intersection, Deoksugung Palace is famous for its elegant stone-wall road. It is also the only palace that sits alongside a series of western style buildings that add to the uniqueness of the surrounding scenery. Deoksugung Palace originally belonged to Wolsandaegun (1454~1488), the older brother of King Seongjong (1469~1494) of the Joseon Dynasty. It became a proper palace when Gwanghaegun (1575~1641) ascended the throne and gave the palace the name Gyeongungung in 1611. Afterwards, the name was then changed back to its orginal title of Deoksugung.
Upon entering Deoksugung Palace and Daehanmun, visitors will cross the wide bridge of Geumcheon. The king's carriage would pass over this bridge during ancient times. The Beopjeon Building Junghwajeon is very stately, revealing of its long history. The Jeukjodang Building received its name from Gwanghaegun and In-Jo both ascended to the throne here. The front sign on Jeukjodang was written personally by Go Jong in 1905 after he became king. Hamnyeongjeon was where Go Jong slept, and Hamnyeong was named so to wish Go Jong lasting peace. The East Wing served as the King’s room, and the west wing was for the Queen. Jeonggwanheon was the first western style building built in the palace in 1900. Go Jong enjoyed drinking coffee and spending his free time here. The back of the building had secret passageways to the Russian Emissary, which still exist today.
Seokjojeon is the other western-style building that still remains in Gyeongwungung, and it was in the process of being built by a British man for his company when in 1905 the property rights were transferred to Japan. It was finally completed in 1910. After Gojong’s death, Seokjojeon became a Japanese art gallery open to the public. After the Korean Declaration of Independence, the American-Russian joint commission was held here as well in May 1946. The east wing of Seokjogwan building now serves as a Palace Treasure exhibition, and the west wing is used as part of National Modern Arts Center.

more on www.deoksugung.go.kr

Dubai- Heritage

2008-08-02T13:19:00.000+05:30

The Hatta Heritage Village
The Hatta Heritage Village was opened to the public in February 2001 after careful and extensive renovation.
The village represents another fine example of the Heritage of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates. Situated 115km southeast of Dubai city in the heart of the rocky Hatta Mountains, it provides the visitor with a fascinating glimpse into Dubai's historical past.

The two towers overlooking the village, known as the "two stones" were used as defense fortresses against hostile invaders.
Today, the Hatta Heritage Village has become an important historical site for tourists.

The history of the village can be traced back to 2000 - 3000 years. It consists of 30 buildings, each differing in size, interior layout and building materials used. Great care was taken to use the same materials as those used when originally built during the renovation such as mud, hay, sandalwood and palm fronds.

UAE gives Tourist Visa for all !!

2008-07-24T21:33:00.003+05:30

People of all nationalities can now enter the UAE on a tourist visa under new rules that come into effect from next week, a senior official from the Interior Ministry said on Wednesday.

Earlier, nationals from 79 countries in the subcontinent, Middle East and elsewhere were not eligible for tourist visas and could come to the UAE only on a visit visa. "The new rules will encourage the tourism sector in the country," said Major General Mohammad Ahmad Al Merri, Director General of Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department (DNRD).

Al Merri announced the new rules after a meeting with hotel and tourist agency representatives yesterday. He said travel agencies will no longer be allowed to apply for visit visas. "Now these companies will only be allowed to apply for tourist visas," he said. "This will regulate the business and make the process of people travelling to the UAE easier and smooth, as tourism is a high priority for us."

Rules

--Tourist visas can only be applied for by a licensed hotel or a tourism agency.

--Residents can apply for a visa for their spouse or blood relative.

--Expatriates will no longer be allowed to sponsor friends, and all visitors should have a health insurance cover.

--Medical treatment visas can only be applied through licensed hospitals and clinics.

--Education visas can only be applied by a licensed educational institution.

--Exhibition and conference visas can only be applied for by the organisers.

Source: Gulf News

I want to visit Scotland !!

2008-07-23T23:55:00.002+05:30

DUBAI summer Surprise 2008 ends on 22nd Aug..

2008-07-22T21:54:00.004+05:30

Dubai is burning in summer when temperature going above 50.. But DSS cools it's way with lot of offers and events..

Dubai will play host to two new entertainment exhibitions – the Dubai International Character and Licensing Fair 2008 (Character Dubai 2008) and the Dubai International E-Games Fair 2008.

The first exhibitions of their kind in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, the events will be organized by Index Holding from October 28 to 30, 2008.

Germany- Attractions

2008-07-22T00:23:00.004+05:30

Cologne Cathedral

A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, Cologne Cathedral is one of the finest church buildings in the Christian world. Gargantuan proportions and craftsmanship of unparalled quality have made the cathedral a defining example of the Gothic style.

Neuschwanstein Castle and Hohenschwangau Castle

King Ludwig II's world-famous castles stand proudly against the spectacular backdrop of the Alps. Neuschwanstein, his fairytale castle, is the
most-visited building in Germany, and was designed
to resemble a medieval German knight's castle.

more on: Germany- Destinations
www.travellinks.tk

Dubai Mall- World's Largest shopping mall

2008-07-14T21:49:00.002+05:30

Highlights

World-class Aquarium and educational Discovery Centre
World’s largest indoor Gold Souk
Fashion Avenue dedicated to haute couture
Indoor Olympic-size Ice Rink
SEGA indoor theme park
Innovative children’s ‘edu-tainment’ concept, KidZania
Exclusive access to the Burj Dubai, the world’s tallest tower
22-screen Cineplex
The Grove, an indoor-outdoor streetscape
Region’s first Galeries Lafayette department store
Over 1,200 stores
14,000 car parking spaces
120 food & beverage outlets

With an impressive array of leisure pursuits, this is the ultimate, cutting-edge shopping experience. A range of adventure sports vies for attention alongside the romance of ice-skating. The Dubai Mall is a place where outdoor brunch can be followed by the delights of the big screen and where a 21st century gold souk is set off against a world class aquarium. When was the last time your sortie to the designer stores took place under the watchful eye of a giant sea turtle? Step inside The Dubai Mall and experience a place like no other.

France-Tourist attractions

2008-07-12T11:42:00.003+05:30

France attractions are myriad, drawing innumerable visitors across the globe every year. The places of tourist attraction in France are countless offering its visitors a long list of options, ranging from the bewildering mountains, fascinating beeches, amazing historical structures as well as stunning specimens of modern technological excellence. The country is dotted with tourist spots, the attractions in France , with every region having something unique for the pleasure of the visitors.

Attractions in France include the mountainous region in France,the Rhone Alps, is famous for its magnificent natural beauty and offers a lot of facilities to the tourists. The Alps is the ideal place for skiing in winter and hiking,trekking, river drafting and other adventurous sports in winter. France enjoys a long coast line and the French beaches are among the finest in the world. French beach resorts are known for their openness in swimming attire, another reason of making them popular tourist attractions in France.

Attractions in France is its rich historical and cultural past. The country remains unparalleled as the home to superb architectural structures; palaces, cathedrals and abbeys reflecting its glorious past. France is the site of world renowned museums, universities, opera houses, and theaters. Restaurants in France offer the delicious French cuisine . Topping the list of tourist attractions in France are the Palace of Versailles, Louvre Museum in Paris, Fontainebleau Castle and Le Mont-Saint-Michel. The underground railway is another evidence of the modern engineering excellence of the French people . France has plenty in store for amusement for the children. Euro Disneyland, Asterix theme park and Miniature France are theme parks specially built for the enjoyment of the kids. Champagne region in France is famous for its sparkling wines.

The places of tourist attraction in Paris, France alone are numerous. The city of historical edifices, Paris is the home of many world famous universities , cathedrals, abbeys, monuments and museums. The Eiffel tower, The Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Notre dam De Paris reflect the city's illustrious past. A great seat of culture Paris houses many opera houses, theaters and restaurants . One can get a taste of famous French cuisine , famous world over, in the Parisian bistros.

The cities in France worth visiting are cannes, Lyon, Nice,Lille and Marseille. The cities have restaurants, hotels, night clubs, pubs and shopping centers and other sources of enjoyment for the tourists

Burjuman Centre, Dubai

2008-07-11T19:08:00.002+05:30

It's one of the major shopping centres in Dubai

Major Hotels in Singapore

2008-07-10T00:07:00.001+05:30

Hotels Orchard Road
Asia's most famous shopping boulevard. Home to the world's premier retailers and fashion houses, hotels on Orchard Rd are international five star properties such as (Hilton, Le Meridien, Meritus, Marriott) as well as luxurious local hotels (Orchard Hotel, Royal Plaza etc).

Hotels Heritage District
Between Orchard Road and the Financial District and true to its name, the Heritage District boasts many beautiful buildings from Singapore's colonial era as well as Bugis Junction. Hotels here cover all bases; 3 star value hotels to the most luxurious 5 star international name hotels.

Hotels Financial District
Encompassing the area around North Bridge Rd. over to Suntec City and Singapore Convention Centre, down to the Singapore River, this is Singapore's Central Business District. Hotels here are the larger, five star international hotels (Marina Mandarin, Pan Pacific, The Oriental, etc).

Hotels River District
The historic Singapore River has been transformed. Old warehouses are now glitzy entertainment venues and chic boutique shops. Hotels here are 4 & 5 star properties with an emphasis on value for money (i.e. Copthorne Kings Miramar and the ever trendy Gallery Hotel).

Hotels Chinatown
A colorful area where modern Singapore brushes up against its traditional past, Chinatown is now one of Singapore's most popular neghbourhoods, Chinatown has lodging for every budget from beautiful 5 star hotels to newly renovated boutique hotels and decent guest houses.

Hotels Little India
North of the Heritage District on Serangoon Road is Little India, one of Singapore's most vibrant neighbourhoods. Hotels in this area are locally run 2 and 3 star hotels favoured by value conscious businessmen. As well there are several budget hotels and guest houses for students.

Hotels North of Downtown
Those neighbourhoods to the north of downtown Singapore that are primarily suburban residential areas. With the extension of the MRT lines and convenient bus routes these areas are becoming more accessible and popular for tourists looking for less expensive accommodation.

East Singapore / Airport
Visitors transiting Singapore and in need of overnight accommodation or just a few hours, here is a list of transit hotels near the airport. Clean and inexpensive, hotels in East Singapore are a good deal for anyone on a budget. Especially popular are the Hotel 81 chain properties.

Hotels Sentosa Island
Once a military outpost, later the local weekend getaway place, Sentosa is Singapore's best known island off its southern coast. A complete desination onto itself with golf course, butterfly park and underwater world Sentosa is a nice day trip (take the cable car) with 4 & 5 star resorts.

Madinat, The Arabian Resort - Dubai

2008-07-09T00:25:00.002+05:30

Madinat Jumeirah translates into the 'City of Jumeirah', so named because of the sheer variety of this magnificent Resort, located in the heart of fashionable Jumeirah.

The concept is one of 'old Arabia' in a totally luxurious context. This combination of authentic Arabian themes has created a destination of unique qualities and outstanding beauty. Madinat Jumeirah is a city of contrasts - from the sublimely relaxing to the vibrant and exotic. A place of meandering waterways and wide open sea-scapes, it is a luxurious oasis in which to relax, experience and interact.

Madinat Jumeirah will be a defining statement in which time and tradition rise from the sands to create a monument of awe-inspiring proportions. The Resort is a recreation of old Arabia and a place where historic beauty meets new-fashioned luxury.

more on: http://www.madinatjumeirah.com/

Accomodation in Dubai

2008-01-26T12:10:00.000+05:30

Visitors to Dubai have an extensive choice of places to stay, which offer superb service and facilities. There’s a range of hotels to suit every traveler and every budget.
Large families on the move can also choose from an extensive range of furnished and equipped hotel apartments. These provide excellent value, particularly if one is planning to be in Dubai for a somewhat long duration. They can be rented daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly.

List of Hotels: http://www.mydsf.com/dsf/eng/dsf_hotelslisting.aspx

Fore more travel links: http://www.travellinks.tk/

Dubai Shopping Festival

2008-01-26T12:06:00.000+05:30

Dubai Shopping Festival 2008 Started on 24th Jnuary. Fore more details Visit:
www.mydsf.com

Current records of Burj Dubai

2008-01-12T12:16:00.000+05:30

Tallest freestanding structure: 598.5 meters (1,964 ft) (previously CN Tower - 553.3 m (1,815 ft))
Building with most floors: 158 (previously Sears Tower / World Trade Center - 110)
Vertical concrete pumping (for a building): 601.0 m (1,972 ft) (previously Taipei 101 - 449.2 m (1,474 ft))
Vertical concrete pumping (for any construction): 601.0 m (1,972 ft) (previously Riva del Garda Hydroelectric Power Plant - 532 m (1,745 ft)[9])

Rotating Skyscraper

2007-12-01T19:41:00.000+05:30

The Arab city which has amazing and impressive buildings like palm-shaped islands and the sail-shaped hotel is now going to build a rotating skyscraper.

Rotating Skyscraper is an eclectic skyline and it is a 30-story apartment tower that revolves on its base. The tower will use the Persian Gulf's abundant sunshine to power the building's slow rotation that brings it full circle once a week.

Work on the rotating tower is supposed to begin in June. Rotating Skyscraper will use solar energy to power 20 electric motors that will rotate the tower through 360 degrees over the course of a week.

The tower was designed by UK architecture firm, Glenn Howells Architects (the company behind the Birmingham Rotunda in the UK) and Palmer and Turner, the master developers of City of Arabia.

This tower has a height of 250 meters and 59 floors mounted in a concrete core which will serve as a rotating shaft. The floors will be preassembled and then attached to the core of the building.

Each floor will rotate in separate direction from others. The velocity will be slow and not noticed by the residents. The project is Italian and has not begun yet. It is predicted that its construction will last two and a half years. The project cost will be around 500 million dollars.

Dubai Marina - Dubai Waterfront Real Estate

2007-11-29T20:26:00.000+05:30

The vision of Dubai Marina is to create an awe-inspiring city-within-a city that delights residents with its
cosmopolitan, free-spirited atmosphere and unique, invigorating lifestyle. It will be an urban centre on the water, comparable to the most exclusive waterfront developments in the world's leading cities. Ideally positioned along Dubai's new growth corridor, Dubai Marina will be the place where people meet, laugh, live and enjoy life to the full. Always alive, with the glittering Marina at its heart, Dubai Marina will be unlike any other place, in Dubai, the Middle East and even the world.

The marina will contain over 200 high-rise buildings and comprise of an area of 50 million square feet. Upon completion it will be the world’s largest man made marina. It was carved along a 3.34km (2 mile) stretch of Dubai's shoreline and is a mixed-use canal-city inspired in the Venetian tradition. It will accommodate over 120 thousand people in their luxury apartment towers and villas, with a unique waterfront view. Marina living has become one of the most desirable and sought after lifestyles in the world. The exclusivity, the status and rewards of waterfront living are abundantly visible in Dubai Marina. It offers the exhilaration and vibrancy of a chic, urban lifestyle fused together with all the advantages of owning a home on the water. Dubai Marina offers unobstructed views across the vast marina, the Arabian Gulf, the Palm Jumeirah Island, also providing fresh sea breezes and the experience of a lifestyle most people can only dream about.

The Colosseum

2007-11-11T19:52:00.000+05:30

The Colosseum is the most famous monument of Ancient Rome. Its original name is Flavian Amphitheatre. It was started by the Emperor Vespasian between 70 and 76 AD, and completed by his son Titus in 80 AD. The Colosseum was dedicated the year after Vespasian's death by Titus. They celebrated the opening by holding 100 days worth of games there. It was built on the site where Nero had had a huge villa for himself. Vespasian wanted to build something for the people rather than for himself. It got its popular name, the Colosseum, because it was built near where Nero had erected a huge statue, or colossus of himself. It showed him as the god of the sun. It was 100 feet high, and it was the largest gilded bronze statue in antiquity. It was later moved away. It took 24 elephants to move it!

All over the empire, Romans enjoyed going to the theater to see concerts and plays, and to the stadium to watch chariot races and the amphitheater to watch bloody sports. Going to the amphitheater (Colosseum) was probably the most popular. Gladiatorial combats, fights with beasts and other fights were held in the Colosseum. The Colosseum was big enough to hold the whole population of a town--as many as 50,000 people would sometimes spend the whole day there watching sports. The games were really bloody and for four centuries, men died as an entertainment for the crowd. Gladiators went to training schools; most of them were slaves and criminals. At first there were fights to the death between wild animals: bear against buffalo, buffalo against elephant, and elephant against rhinoceros. Sometimes there would even be fights between men and tame beasts. These fights were called venationes.

The Amphitheater is built of travertine outside, and of tufa and brick in the interior. It had Greek columns decorating the outside, but these did not support the architecture. The Colosseum had a circumference of 527m and it was 50m high. There were 80 entrances, all numbered except for the four main entrances which were wider than the others and were reserved for the Emperor. It was designed so that the crowd could get out in five minutes. The interior was divided into three parts: the arena, the podium, and the cavea. Now more than two-thirds of the original building has been removed and the rows of the seats in the cavea are missing. It is very similar to other amphitheaters except this one is much bigger.

Al Burj

2007-09-03T20:49:00.000+05:30

Al Burj is a skyscraper proposed in Dubai, United Arab Emirates by developer Al Nakheel. Originally hyped to become one of the world's tallest skyscrapers, but currently thought to have been redesigned on a more modest scale, it is to form the centrepiece of the Dubai Waterfront, the world's largest man-made waterfront which is also being developed by Al Nakheel.

Although ground leveling and land reclamation has begun on the Dubai Waterfront, construction of the tower itself has not yet started. However, Nakheel is in talks with several potential contractors which include South Korean Samsung Group who is also building the Burj Dubai, Japanese Shimizu Corporation and Australian Grocon.
Technical Data
Height to tip 1,050 m (3,445 ft)
Height to roof 850 m (2,789 ft)
Height to top floor 850 m (2,789 ft)
Floors 228
Total Built-up area 1,490,000 m² (16,038,226 sq ft)
Useable Space 492,000 m² (5,295,844 sq ft)
Usage Mixed Use

Developer Al Nakheel
Architect Woods Bagot

Burj Dubai becomes tallest building on earth

2007-07-23T21:23:00.000+05:30

Burj Dubai, a tower under construction in the United Arab Emirates' trade hub, became the tallest building in the world on Saturday, measuring 512.1 meters (1,680 ft), its developer said.

read full story on reuters>>

Dubai Floating bridge opened !

2007-07-18T21:39:00.000+05:30

Being a good remedy for the growing traffic in Dubai, Floating bridge, another wonder, opened for traffic. It will be open from 6am to 10 pm only..

Burj Dubai- The tallest building in the world..!!

2007-07-11T21:45:00.000+05:30

Computer image of Burj Duabi and surrounding buildings which will be completed in November 2008..

In Dubai..

2007-05-03T11:34:00.000+05:30

I'm in Dubai now..It's thrilling to live in world's fastest growing company.. Burj Dubai (means DUBAI TOWER) is rising to it's glory which will be the tallest tower in world.. You can see the tower from any where in Dubai.. I had boat ride in Abra (a boat service between BurDubai and Deira). I enjoyed it a lot..The "Heritage village" is where u can see the old style buildings and the culture of UAE. Big shopping malls are the main attraction in Dubai. The shopping festival will be in December.. If you are interested in traveling, come and enjoy the world's fastest growing city..

Get Inspired to travel around the world !

2007-03-30T07:58:00.001+05:30

Read, research your ideas, think about where you want to go. You can take inspiration from :

Travel Magazines - usually, glossy high impact brochures on destinations world wide, ranging from The National Geographic to the pullouts from the weekend papers; there is a lot of material around. The problem is that it's unlikely that your experiences will match those shown in the magazines. Why? In the case of the National Geographic their reporters are often researching one particular aspect of a subject, or a society, spend months getting to know the subject, take thousands of photos, and produce an article just a few thousand of words in length. They know the topic inside out, but have they experienced all the region has to offer ? On the other hand, glossy magazines often provide content supporting the lifestyles and types of holiday for which the magazine can push advertising. Hence the glossy magazines' emphasis on luxury. An article on backpacking is not going to support the cruise liner advertising on its opposite page.

TV Travel Shows - in my time I have seen some amazing TV shows - BBC TV's the Rough Guide Series (not to be confused with the travel guides of the same name) - was inspirational; a mix of footage, sensationalism, culture, music and facts blasted at high speed in the now defunct def2 format (I'm showing my age now). Michael Palin has inspired a generation of Round the World Travelers, though most don't try to do it in 80 days. The holiday shows, "wish you were here" and "holiday 2000's" are aimed at the short breaks mass market - and the mass market buyers only give themselves two weeks a year to enjoy themselves.

Books - such as traveling around Ireland with a fridge (who would have thought that this book would be a best seller. People do equally crazy things all the time, they just don't have the flare for humor that Tony Hawks is blessed with, nor do they skateboard as well), or Bill Bryson and his observations on tiny cultural habits and behavior, set in the grand scheme of road trips.

Photos - Looking through photos of some of the most beautiful and exciting places in the world, can really increase the excitement levels. However, remember that the shots you see will be the best of many thousands - not every moment will have the fantastic sunset or mist rolling in over the hills. But it really is a good way to whet the appetite.

Travel Guides - any of the big name travel guides provide a wealth of information on a region. Browsing in a bookshop will often lead to an overwhelming choice. Try to look at a general book for a region, then decide if the region is for you. The advantages of this type of research are that you'll have a better idea of costs, places to stay and what the highlights are. See LonelyPlanet, Rough Guide, Fodors for further details. What about out-of-date travel guides ? Even older travel guides are useful, as the sites, the history, maps, the food, the culture of a place don't change so much over time. Even the older guide book's prices can be useful, since when you get a feel for how much costs have changed, you can work out up-to-date costs from the listed price in the old guide.

Websites - The top travel sites give you the inspiration to travel. travellinks.tk provides the list of travel sites in all categories.

Watch Video- Debate between SriSri Ravisankar and Dr.Zakir Naik

2007-03-15T08:00:00.000+05:30

The debate held at Banglore on the topic "Concept of God"
between Sri Sri Ravisankar, the founder of 'Art of Living' and respected by millions of people as a God and Dr.Zakir Naik, the great Islamic scholar.

Watch video

part1 part2 part3

Singapore Fashion Festival 2007

2007-03-14T09:20:00.000+05:30

Be among the first to preview the latest Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter collections at the Singapore Fashion Festival 2007! The Festival boasts an enthralling and eclectic range of events featuring the best trend-setting looks from luxury designer brands, high-street fashion and local labels.

With celebrities, designers and top models such as Kim So Yeon, Salvatore Ferragamo Jr, Andrew Gn, Julien Macdonald and Lily Cole gracing previous Festivals at runway shows by Ferragamo, Chanel, Diane von Furstenberg and Jean Paul Gaultier, this year's promises to be another stunning world-class fashion experience.

In addition to the main action happening in the tent, look out for mall promotions, special deals, fashion shows, exhibitions, fashion parties and lots more happening all over the city!

more details>>

EEE Blog

2007-03-01T11:19:00.000+05:30

The Perfect Blog in Electrical and Electronics Engineering:

http://web-ee.blogspot.com

Beaches in India

2007-02-10T12:00:00.000+05:30

Thousands of sun-deprived tourists visit India because it incredibly has the most diverse varieties of beaches anywhere in the world. Placid backwaters and lagoons, bays and rough lava-rocked seas, marine estuaries with fish, crashing surf, powdery golden sand or palm fringed shores - Incredible India has them all.

The West Coast with the Arabian Sea and the East Coast with the Bay of Bengal offer many a verdant vistas to the traveller. The coasts of India have their own seafood cuisine, relaxing spas, diving and water sports and great places to stay for a balmy holiday.

Kovalam undoubtedly is one of India's best sea resorts. The long coastline lined with swaying coconut palm trees dotted with an occasional fishing hamlet is fast developing into one of the world's finest string of beaches. The sea applauds the beach temple in Mahabalipuram, gloriously silhouetted against the spectrum of the seven colours in the sky. Puri, on the East Coast, is surely one of the world's most picturesque beaches. And then there is Digha, a three-hour drive out of Kolkata, a beautiful beach, splendid in its isolation.

The beach holiday to beat them all is in the Isles of Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshwadeep, where you can see the myriad colours of the flashy fish in the coral reefs from above the green waters.

Now fully developed as an international beach resort, Goa offers the best holiday villages on its beaches. Everything about Goa is spellbinding from the landscape dotted with Portuguese architecture, to the way of life that exudes an irresistible Old World charm. Anjuna or Calangute Beach, and Miramar Bay in Panjim are quieter. Beach vendors sell all manner of kitsch in Anjuna and Calangute. You can rent beach mats and mattresses, sunglasses, and the usual tourist paraphernalia. You can even get all sorts of spaghetti, German bread and Italian food. The beach at Calangute is rocky. At Anjuna the waters are gentle and offer opportunities for boat rides, sea scooter rides, spot-the-dolphins rides, and motorboat rides. Colva and Benaulim are quieter and less crowded than Anjuna. The Fort Aguada beach offers gorgeous views that merit a visit. Sinquerim and Candolim are also quiet beaches that afford anonymity.

Whether it's the isolated horizons of the Konkan Coast or the Arabian Sea; the golden sands or the water drenched seashores, every beach in India makes a picture perfect holiday destination.

DUBAI- Tips for better trip..

2007-01-12T10:41:00.000+05:30

The best times to visit UAE are in December, March, April sees the Sharjah Ramadan Festival, Abu Dhabi Festival of Sales, Dubai Summer Surprises and the Dubai Shopping Festival on - this may be of interest to shoppers looking for good bargains. These are also the cooler months, a good time to explore the UAE. For the culturally oriented, December 2nd , the National Day of the UAE is one of the best times to visit. Abu Dhabi ruler and President of the UAE, H H Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan has taken an active interest in promoting culture and this month is full of cultural activities. Various international sporting events, exhibitions and trade shows create a festive atmosphere and is a good time to visit.

Being a country of booming metropolises and a melting pot of different cultures, various events are held all the year around, so keep an eye on the Events calendar to decide on the time you want to visit.

How to get there

From outside the Gulf :
You can reach Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Dubai, Sharjah and other emirates by air from almost all the international destinations. Most of the emirates have world-class International airports and many flights stop here en route from Asia to Europe or vice versa.
From outside the UAE :
If you are in a neighboring country like Oman or Muscat, it is very easy to drive down into the UAE provided you have the visa.

Shopping - Business Hours
Shops are generally open from 9:30 - 1:00 and from 4:30 -9:30 on Saturday through Thursday. Many shops in the malls are remaining open all day which can offer a time for shopping without crowds. On Friday, the Islamic holiday, shops do not generally open until 2:00 or later.

Bargaining
Part of the tradition of shopping in the UAE is bargaining over the price. In the souk, a rule of thumb is to offer half of the first price and work your way up. In other shops except for truly fixed price stores, a bit of negotiating will bring a reduction in price. If you have to ask the price of something, the price is not fixed

Health Matters

Immunizations
No health certificate or special immunizations are required when traveling to the UAE unless you have been in a cholera or Yellow Fever affected area 14 days prior to visiting. it is wise to check with your travel agent before traveling, however, should the situation change.

Coping with the Heat
For eight months of the year the Emirates are hot and along the coast, very humid. It is important that the visitor take precautions not to overexert. All hotels and restaurants are air conditioned as are most shops but outside is still hot. Try to limit going in and out of the air conditioning and be sure to drink plenty of fluids when outside for a long time.

Medical Care
Even the smallest emirate is now equipped with a modern hospital so there is no need to worry about the availability of health care. Most major cities have several hospitals and an abundance of private clinics should you be in need.
Travel Links >>>

Dubai-Some information

2007-01-12T09:51:00.000+05:30

Dubai is the second largest emirate in the U.A.E. Its total area is around 1000 square miles.

The city of Dubai is divided by the famous Dubai creek or Khor. This natural harbour, and Dubai's strategic location on the international trading map has made it one of the world's leading trading and commercial centers.
The Jebel Ali Free Trade Zone - the fifth largest in the world within a short span of ten years, has attracted over 900 international companies that include global giants - a few of these are General Motors, AEG, Aiwa, BP, Ciba, Geigy, Daewoo and Heinz.

Dubai's attractiveness not only lies in its trade. Like the rest of the U.A.E., it has also been actively promoted as a tourist destination. A few of its notable achievements are :

The gold prize for the best destination in the Middle East in the 1996 World Travel prizes ceremony held in June 1996 in Las Vegas, USA. Dubai also won the silver medal for the best tourism and conference centre in the Middle East.

The Dubai Shopping Festival, held every year is a major attraction for tourists worldwide.

The Dubai World Trade Centre has also emerged as the best Exhibition and Conference centre in the Gulf Region by hosting innumerable International Fairs and events like the Gitex and Index, that attracts buyers, sellers and customers from all over the world.

The Dubai International Airport considered as the world's second best transit airport, currently handles 7.3 million passengers per year with a growth rate of 12% that is double that of any other airport in the world.

The Dubai Air Show is currently ranked third as the most significant international air-shows on a global scale. The first being Farnborough in Britain and the second Le Bourget in Paris.

The Dubai Summer Surprises is an innovative tourist attraction, aimed at increasing tourism in the usually inactive summer months. The peak summer months of July, August upto mid September are filled with shopping bonanzas, entertainment for children, Ice circus, with entertainment and educational programmes held daily at all the major shopping complexes.

The ancient cities in Srilanka

2007-01-08T06:45:00.000+05:30

Adam’s Peak

It is believed that Lord Buddha during his third visit to Sri Lanka placed his footprint on the summit of this sacred mountain. So, the name Sri Pada the sacred footprint. This mountain is also known as Samantakuta, Sumanakuta, Samanalakanda, Samanhela, Samangira, Medumhelaya etc. The Christians call the mountain Adam's Peak, derived from the Portuguese Pico de Adam (Peak of Adam). It is 7,360 feet in height and is the forth highest mountain in the country and has several approaches, the main ones being through the Hatton town and Ratnapura District. Annually, from December to April, devotees climb the mountain to pay obeisance.

Dalada Maligawa

Kandy ’s main attraction is the Dalada Maligawa, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th c. A.D., the sacred relic has ever since been the symbol of sovereignty for its rulers and always enshrined in great splendour. Kandy’s Dalada Maligawa is a magnificent shrine, with decorative walls, moat, turrets, golden roof and fine wood-work and its 16th – 19th century ambience vividly alive. Three religious services (pooja) with traditional music, held daily at dawn, mid-day and in the evening, can be viewed by visitors.

Kelaniya Temple

This temple, consecrated during the third and final visit of Lord Buddha to Sri Lanka, eight years after gaining enlightenment, is situated 7 miles from Colombo in Gampaha District on the banks of the Kelaniya River. Its history goes back nearly 2,563 years. The Mahawansa records that the original Dagoba at Kelaniya enshrined a gem-studded throne on which the Buddha sat and preached. The temple is also famous for its image of the reclining Buddha and paintings which depict important events in the life of the Buddha, in the history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, also incidents from the Jataka tales. lt is the venue of the annual Duruthu Perahera held in the month of January.

Dambulla Vihara

Located north of Kandy and considered by most to be the center point of SriLanka, Dambulla is a town built around a vast isolated rock mass 500 ft and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.It was here that King Valagambahu took refuge in the 1st century B.C. The view from the top of this rock is breathtaking 350 ft. above are a series of five caves which was later turned into a magnificent rock temple by King Valagambahu.

In the first cave is a recumbent image of the Buddha 47 ft, long , cut out from the rock. There are images of deities associated with Buddhism. The frescoes on the walls and ceiling could be dated to the 15th - 18th centuries. In the second cave, the finest and the largest , are not less than 150 life size statues of gods. There are numerous images of the Buddha as well. The ceiling too is covered with frescoes which depict great events in the life of the Buddha , and landmarks in the history of the Sinhala People.

Sigiriya Rock

The history of Sigiriya dates back to over 5000 thousand years, to the Mesolithic period. One of SriLanka’s major attractions and a World Heritage Site, Sigiriya(Lion Rock) came into prominence in the 5th centaury AD, when the patricidal King Kasyapa, afraid of reprisals led by his half - brother, Mogolan, chose to move the seat of power from Anuradhapura to this 500m rock. It was Kasyapa and his master-builders who were responsible for the complex plan which made Sigiriya the glorious capital it was, for 17 years (477 – 495 AD). The frescoes of the ‘ heavenly maidens ‘ halfway up the rock in a sheltered gallery, are the only painted renderings of a secular subject in this country.The ‘ mirror wall ‘, which records the poetic outpourings of early visitors to the rock and the colossal plan of the royal palace, water gardens and fortifications, is entirely fascinating.

Mahinyangana Maha Seya

This Cetiya (stupa) was built during the lifetime of Lord Buddha enshrining the lock of hair given by Him to God Saman on the occasion of His first visit to Sri Lanka, nine months after attaining enlightenment. It is the first ever stupa to be constructed in Sri Lanka.
It was enlarged by Arhat Sarabhu to a Cetiya 12 cubits high after receiving and enshrining the collar bone relic of the Buddha taken from the funeral pyre. The son of King Devanampiyatissa's brother, for greater protection, covered it over and made it thirty cubits high. King Dutugemunu -(161-137 BC). Dwelling there, while fighting the invading forces of the Tamils, enlarged it to eighty cubits high. It was subsequently rebuilt by Vijayabahu 1 (1055-1110 CE) and restored again during modern times.

Ruwanveli Seya

Situated in Mahamega Gardens. Built in the second century B.C by King Dutugamunu. It is 100 metres tall, 77 metres wide, 300 ft in diameter.
Originally the shupa was designed in a " Bubble " shape . Sadly different restorations of the Thupa have changed its shape. The Great Sthupa cost the King 6.4 million coins in wages. The construction was commenced on a full moon day in May 144 B.C. The foundation was made of butter-clay, imported from India, which was used as cement. Further four small Stupas are to be seen in the 0four corners in order to give more respect. Entering the shupa , you come across a sand court yard from which rises the Elephant wall.
Walking around the stupa you see a life size statue of a king, believed to be King Dutugamunu. Further you see an Inscription done by King Nissankamalla in the platform. King Dutugamunu fell sick with a sickness that was to be mortal, He sent for his younger brother Saddhatissa to complete its work. So King Dutugamunu had his wish fulfilled as he lay dying, and the stupa was later finished by King Saddhatissa.

Gal Viharaya

Located in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and built in the 12th century A.D by the great King Parakramabahu the 1st. It is a group of Buddha images that probably mark the high point of Sinhalese rock carving.The Gal Viharaya consists of four seperate images of different postures carved and cut from one long slab of granite.
First is a samadhi image in meditation posture, while the second is inside a cave and the third is a standing Buddha image which is 23 ft in height and the forth is a recumbent Buddha image measuring 46 feet, depicting the passing away.

Wewurukannala Vihara

15 miles east of Matara is the town of Dikwella, where there is one of the most amazing Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. The Wewurukannala Vihara temple is dominated by an image of a seated Buddha. It is 160ft high, the largest statue in all of Sri Lanka and dates back to the time of King Rajadhi (1782 - 1798).
The temple has three parts, the oldest being about 250 years old; however this is of no particular interest. The next part has life size models of demons and sinners shown in graphic detail. If you don't follow the path to enlightenment this is what happens to you. Punishments include being drowned in boiling cauldrons, sawn in half, disemboweled and so on. Finally there is the enormous seated Buddha that is as high as an eight-storied building.
The temple walls show you the path towards enlightenment by depicting hundreds of comic strip representations of events in the Buddha's life. Among one of the episodes is the Chulla Dhammapala Jataka. It tells the story of how King Maha Prathapa of Varanasi on entering the palace found the queen cuddling her seven month old child. After ignoring him the King was left insulted so ordered that the prince be executed and the body be thrown into the air. Several Jataka Stories are also amid the paintings, which where selected for Vesak stamps in 1991. One depicts The Kattahari Jataka showing Prince Kastavahana, son of King Brahmadatta resting with his entourage.

Buduruwagala Rock Sculptures

Located 5kms south of Wellawaya a side road branches west off the road to Tissa to the rock cut Buddha figures of Buduruwagala.Buduruwagala means stone images of Buddha.The figures dates back to 10th century AD, and are of the Mahayana Buddhist school.The gigantic Buddha statue still bears traces of its original stuccoed robe and a long streak of orange suggests it was once brightly painted.The central of the three figures to the Buddha’s right is thought to be the Buddhist mythological figure, the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara. To the left of this white painted figure is a female figure in the thrice-bent posture, who is thought to be his consort, Tara. The three figures on the Buddha’s left appear to an inexpert eye to be of a rather different style. One of them is holding up the hourglass shaped Tibetan thunderbolt symbol known as a dorje – an unusual example of the Tantric side of Buddhism in SriLanka.One of them is said to be Maitreya, the figure Buddha , while another is Vishnu.

Kataragama Devalaya

One of Sri Lanka’s holy places where Hindus, Buddhists and Muslims visit on religious pilgrimage. It is a large Complex with the `Mahadewala’ – Main Hindu shrine being the most important place. This Shrine of God Skanda, the Hindu war God who is worshipped as the Kataragama Deviyo is venerated by pilgrims of all three religions. It is believed that King Dutugemunu the warrior king and Sinhala folk hero built a shrine here for the worship of the Kataragama God in the 2nd century BC. There is also a first century BC Buddhist Dagoba - `Kirivenhera’ at this site. The annual Hindu Kataragama festival is held in July and August.

Tirukoneswaram Kovil

At the northeastern most tip of the Fort Frederick's promontory is a cliff known as Swami Rock, dropping about 360 feet directly into the sea. On its topmost pinnacle is the Tirukonesvaram Kovil , destroyed by the Portuguese though the Kovil was restored and completed in 1963.Three ancient bronze images and a Shiva lingam, later found by divers at the bottom of the cliff beneath the temple , were installed for worship. Puja services are especially colorful at twilight on Fridays. Trincomalee may take its name from the site of this temple - perhaps from the Tamil words tiru kona malai , " mountain scared to Konesvara ( Shiva )."

Lakshadweep, a magical realm of existence

2007-01-05T11:40:00.000+05:30

Located in the Arabian Sea off the south-eastern coast of India, the charm of Lakshadweep Islands (known as Laccadive Islands till 1973) lies in their remoteness. Far from the chaos of civilization, as we know it, they represent a rather magical realm of existence. Each island is densely covered with coconut palms, and serenely set in a sea, the waters of which range from palest aquamarine and turquoise, to deepest sapphire and lapis lazuli.

The Lakshadweep islands are India's only coral islands. The Lakshadweep chain of islands are coral atolls. An atoll is a coral organism lying exactly at the surface of the ocean where air and water meet; this being the only condition under which coral can live. The coral here is shaped like a ring and encircles a staggeringly beautiful emerald-blue lagoon. Each atoll is the topmost point of a submarine pillar of limestone extending several thousand feet from an extinct volcano. Tempting as it is to pick up a coral as a souvenir, it is strictly illegal, being punishable with heavy fines. Non-availability of drinking water accounts for a number of islands being uninhabited. Of the 36 islands covering a land area of 32 sq. km, only 10 are inhabited.

Ethnically, the people of the islands are very similar to the people of the state of Kerala. Majority of them are Muslims, and speak Malayalam except in Minicoy where Mahli is spoken.Coconut cultivation and fishing, are the chief occupations of the people, whose folklore and customs are, not surprisingly, largely derived from the sea. The people of Lakshadweep are often commended for their honesty.

A Boat journey through the backwaters of Kerala

2007-01-03T00:51:00.000+05:30

Yes, it'll be an amazing experience..These are from Thattekkadu, Kerala.

Peermedu, Kerala..Beautiful hills

2007-01-01T23:50:00.000+05:30

Kerala, God's own country is well known for its natural beauty. These snaps are from Peermedu, near Kottayam, Kerala When I've gone there..

Traveling With Your Laptop

2006-12-17T07:42:00.000+05:30

Computers don't always make the best traveling companions. They can get cranky when mishandled, their batteries seem to die at the worst possible times, and sometimes they refuse to perform basic tasks like connecting to a wireless network or sending e-mail.

Traveling computers are also prone to becoming victims of the digital version of Montezuma's Revenge, picking up strange viruses and other virtual bugs. And if digital diseases don't get them, there are plenty of hackers and thieves who are eager to steal your computer or poke around in your personal data. The sad truth is that computers immediately become more vulnerable to theft, hack attacks, and viruses when you're working with them in public spaces or are connected to public networks in hotels, coffee shops, and airports.

Happily all of these problems have a solution. Here's how to keep your computer and other digital gear happy and healthy whether you're traveling for work or pleasure.

Please Do Not Disturb (The Computer): Pack your computer in a padded case to shield it from the physical traumas of travel. If you're traveling by air, avoid placing your laptop in the overhead bin where someone will undoubtedly dump a heavy object on top of it. And when the flight attendants push the drinks cart near your seat, close your laptop. A bit of turbulence or just plain klutziness can result in a spill, and a doused laptop is almost always a dead laptop.

What to Pack: Bring along the system restore disk that came with your computer (or the operating system disk) in case some tech trauma occurs while you're away; a backup disk containing any essential files; a power adaptor if you're traveling out of the country (check with your laptop manufacturer for these, and remember to get adaptors for all the electronic gear you're bringing); and perhaps a short extension cord so you can work anywhere in your room instead of right up next to the room's only power outlet.

Power Up: To get the longest life possible from your laptop's battery, go to Start>Control Panel>Power Options, and on the "Power Schemes" pull-down menu choose "Max Battery." Windows will now conserve your battery power by shutting off your screen and spinning down the hard drive when you aren't actively using the computer. (Mac users: go to System Preferences>Energy Saver>Settings for Battery and Optimization>Better Battery Life.) Also, to save the life of your battery, decrease the screen's brightness -- look for the key on your keyboard with the little sun icon on it and press it and the function key simultaneously. (No such key? Check your computer's manual.)

Thwart Thieves: Put your laptop in your room safe or the hotel safe when not in your room (not under the bed or in the drawers underneath your undies -- too many people hide things there, so it's the first place a thief will look). If the hotel safe seems dicey, or you need to bring your laptop to a conference room or onto a convention floor, most laptops have a security slot (Kensington lock). Get a locking device with an attached cable (available at any well-stocked computer supply store), wrap the cable around a heavy, stationery object, and insert the lock into the security slot.

Travel Tummy, The Tech Version: Computer viruses and worms can run rampant on the wide-open public wireless services offered by hotels, coffee shops, bookstores, and libraries. Protect your computer from other people's computer germs by making sure your operating system's firewall is active. (Instructions on how to activate the Windows firewall are here, Mac users click here. Firewalls block most incoming threats. Also make sure that you're running an up-to-date copy of an antivirus program.)

Stop Snoops: Public wireless service is open to any and all, which means that any data you have stored on your computer is accessible to all other users on the network. So in other words, any data you transmit over the Internet is about as private as a message written on the back of a postcard. The best way to ward off snoops is to disable your wireless card's Ad-Hoc (peer-to-peer) mode. This helps to prevent anyone else from connecting to your computer. The software for your wireless modem will allow you to disable Ad-Hoc with a single click. And again, make sure you're running a firewall on your computer.

Get Connected: No wireless service in your hotel? Check here and here for exhaustive listings of public wireless networks around the world.

E-mail Mystery: Once you're connected to a public wireless service you'll be able to receive mail through an e-mail program like Outlook, but you probably won't be able to send out e-mail. That's because most Internet Service Providers block e-mail sent through their network via any other ISP, including wireless ones (as a spam fighting measure). To send e-mail, use your ISP's web mail service or set up a web mail account with a free service like Google's Gmail, Yahoo, or Hotmail.

source

Maximize Your Hotel Experience

2006-12-16T07:07:00.000+05:30

Ask and you might receive

When you book a hotel room, ask about every possible discount. Do they offer a corporate rate? If you have a business card and you're not staying in a resort property, you probably qualify. Are you a government employee? Do you qualify for a military service rate? AARP? Local resident rate? (Hawaiian hotels offer steep discounts to island residents). If you don't qualify for any of these reductions, politely say "What's the absolute best rate available for the days I want to stay at your property?"

Use any available means

If you are attending a convention, trade show or exhibition, check the event's Web site. Chances are the organizers have arranged discount lodging with local hotels and perhaps discounted airfares. Some of these deals are so good it may be worth checking out a trade show in your area of interest while you're on holiday just so that you can legitimately qualify for the lodging discount. Big cities always have a full calendar of shows and conventions. To figure out what's on when you're in town, check the convention center's Web site.

Call early, call late

If you want to stay at a specific property, reserve as soon as you can. If there are no rooms available, book a room somewhere else and check your chosen hotel's cancellation policy to find your window of best opportunity. If bookings need to be cancelled 48 hours before arrival, for example, call the hotel again about 72 hours before you'll be in town, and then call back a few times over the next day to see if anyone has cancelled. Don't forget to factor your own reservation's requirements into this equation, of course.

Invest some time

Whether you're looking for a bargain or a special room in a special hotel, don't rely on just one source. Check the hotel's Web site and don't forget to scan the special offers/promotions page. Those rates may not be listed if you go directly to the reservations page. Check travel booking sites and airline sites -- sometimes a package deal can save you plenty and get you into a fully-booked hotel (properties often reserve blocks of rooms for "travel partners" such as airlines and agencies). And even if all the Web sites insist a hotel is sold out, call the direct reservation number (not the 800 number). The hotel's own reservationists have the most current information on booking status, and if someone just canceled you'll get their room if you call, not if you book online.

Don't beg for upgrades

You'll get upgraded without asking if you're a frequent guest or if it suits the hotel's needs. But do let the hotel know if you're celebrating a special occasion such as a honeymoon or anniversary. This usually just nets you a nice fruit basket, if nothing else. If you're a frequent guest, however, you might get an upgrade if a nicer room happens to be available and the powers that be know you're celebrating something special.

Follow the seasons

Hotel rates are based on supply and demand. Book just before or after the peak periods to get the best rates and beat the crowds (you rarely see a city or the locals at their best during peak travel times). Check your guidebook or the hotel's Web site for peak period time frames. If there isn't a chart on the hotel's site with off-season and on-season rates, enter the dates that you're planning to visit into the online reservation system, and then see if the rates go down appreciably if you enter dates a week or two earlier, or a week or two later.

Know your options

The cheapest rate may not be the best rate. Sometimes booking a slightly more expensive room on the "club" or "executive" floor can save you money if you'll use the included services. Business floors may offer free high-speed Internet access in a hotel that normally charges a fee for 'net connections, free in-room faxing, and free use of business center or translation services. Club floors often boast a private concierge and a plethora of free food -- continental breakfast, mid-afternoon tea, and late night noshes. Conversely, don't book into a hotel that has amenities you don't need because the cost of providing them is factored into your room rate.

Say "thank you"

We often gripe with great gusto over substandard service, but we don't always say thank you with the same enthusiasm. If a hotel staffer goes out of their way for you, send a thank you letter or email to the property's manager and let them know about it. Kudos for good service usually leads to even better service, and that benefits everyone who travels.

source

Egypt to add more flights from India

2006-12-15T07:19:00.000+05:30

New Delhi, Dec 14: To give an impetus to the growing India-Egypt ties, the number of flights between the two countries are expected to grow to seven a week in the next six months.

"Foreign ministers of both the countries would meet shortly and a memorandum of understanding would be signed to increase the number of Egypt Air flights to seven from the two at present," Ambassador of Egypt Mohammed Higazy said at the sidelines of the Indo-Egypt Joint Commission meet here.

The country is looking to add flights from cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Bangalore. Currently only Egypt Air is operating flights between the two countries, flying twice a week from Mumbai.

To boost business and tourist travel, the Egyptian government has made a provision to give visa on arrival, relaxing norms and making it easier for tourists to visit the country, Tourism Counsellor at the Egyptian Consulate Samy Mahmoud said.

He said his country would also make efforts to increase the flow of Indian tourists and promote Egypt both as a stopover and transit destination.

"In 2005, we had 57000 Indian tourists in Egypt and from January to November this year the number stands at 60000," he added.

source

TajMahal glows at sunrise..

2006-12-14T12:11:00.000+05:30

When to go to India..

2006-12-12T12:00:00.000+05:30

Climate plays a key factor in deciding when to visit India. Keep in mind that climatic conditions in the far north are distinctly different to those of the extreme south.

Generally, India's climate is defined by three seasons - the hot, the wet (monsoon) and the cool, each of which can vary in duration from north to south. The most pleasant time to visit most places is during the cooler period: November to around mid-February.

The heat starts to build up on India's northern plains from around February, and by April or May it really hots up, peaking in June. In central India temperatures of 45°C and above are commonplace. South India also becomes uncomfortably hot during this time.

Late in May the first signs of the monsoon are visible in some areas - high humidity, electrical storms, short rainstorms and dust storms that turn day into night. The hot season is the time to abandon the plains and head for the cooler hills, and this is when hill stations are at their best (and busiest).

When the monsoon finally arrives the rain comes in steadily, generally starting around 1 June in the extreme south and sweeping north to cover the whole country by early July. The main monsoon comes from the southwest, but the southeast coast (and southern Kerala) is largely affected by the short and surprisingly wet northeast monsoon, which brings rain from around October to early December.

Things don't really cool down: at first hot, dry and dusty weather is simply replaced by hot, humid and muddy conditions. It doesn't rain all day, but it generally rains every day. Followed by the sun this creates a fatiguing steam bath environment.

Around October the monsoon ends for most of the country. This is when India sees most tourists - however, it's too late to visit Ladakh (May to October is the optimum period). During October and November it's generally not too hot and not too cool (although October can still be hot and/or humid in some regions). In the thick of winter (around mid-December to mid-January), Delhi and other northern cities can become astonishingly cold, especially at night - and it's bone-chilling in the far north. In the far south the temperatures become comfortably warm during this period.

It's worth checking the dates of particular festivals - you may be attracted or repelled by the chaos (and jacked-up prices) that attend them. There are virtually no festivals in May/June. The wedding season falls between November and March, when you're likely to see at least one lively procession through the streets

Beaches in Kerala

2006-12-10T10:56:00.000+05:30

Kerala beaches may be take a backseat because of the backwaters, but entire 900-km length of the Kerala coast is lined with sandy beaches, rocky promontories and coconut palms that definitely merit a visit in every tourist itinerary. Touring the beach sites of Kovalam can make any beach holiday a delightful one, as Kerala's beaches are renowned for the gentle surf and blue waters. Beach travel has never before been so exciting!

Kovalam Beach - small village along the shoreline, fabulous beaches, most popular is the Lighthouse Beach, the northern most Samudra beach, least affected.
Marari Beach - one of the local fishing villages, completely new to the holidaymaker, endless miles of superb sand beaches backed by swaying palms, virgin territory, local charm and traditional Kerala
Kumarakom Beach - cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary spread across 14 acres is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Birds include Egrets, darters, herons, teal, waterfowl, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian storks. The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip.
Alappuzha Beach - a popular hangout and relaxation spot, around 140 years old pier that extends in to the sea, lagoons, vast lakes and numerous fresh water rivers, Alappuzha is a natural wonderland.
Beypore Beach - prominent ports and fishing harbours of ancient Kerala, also known for its ancient ship building industry.
Varkala Beach - the most popular beach resorts in Kerala, mineral water springs with medicinal properties, also an important Hindu pilgrimage centre.
Fort Kochi Beach - historic fort, leisurely walk through the lanes of the city to learn about eventful colonial history and European regimes who ruled it.
Kappad Beach in Kerala - Vasco da Gama landed on its shores on 27th May 1498 with 170 men in three vessels. A pillar with inscription "Vasco Da Gama landed here, Kappakkadavau in the year 1498" stands on the beach. The beach here is very calm with a stretch of rocks projecting into the sea.
Dharmadam Island - beautiful beach island, coconut palms, green bushes, breathtaking sight. Permission is required to enter this privately owned island.
Ezhimala Beach - a picturesque site with a hilly backdrop, carved Stone Pillars, an ancient Burial chamber and an ancient Cave can be seen at the foot of the hills, famous for medicinal herbs.
Mopila Bay - natural fishing harbour with quite a modernised fishing harbour look, built with assistance under the Indo-Norwegian pact, ruined fort and temple.
Muzhappilangad Beach - one of the longest beaches in Kerala, also the only drive-in beach in India.
Pathiramanal Beach - island beach on the Backwaters, a favourite natural hub of hundreds of rare migratory birds that reside over here from different parts of the land.
Payyambalam Beach - beautiful beach sites, surfing in calm and peaceful waters.
Sankhumugham Beach - breathtaking sunset, a favourite haunt of sunset watchers.
Tanur Beach - coastal fishing town believed to be visited by Francis Xavier in the year 1546 AD.
Thangassery Beach - a seaside village of historic importance, ruins of an old Portuguese Fort and churches built in the 18th century. 144 feet high Thangaserry Lighthouse open to visitors from 1530-1730 hours every day.
Thirumullavaram Beach - beautiful beach filled with coconut palms, ideal for an early morning walk.

Hyderabad-'city of Nawabs'

2006-12-10T10:43:00.000+05:30

Holiday at the ever so hospitable city of Hyderabad. Fondly called the 'city of Nawabs' Hyderabad offers a captivating combination of tradition and trend to the tourists and travellers.
The main landmark in Hyderabad is the Charminar. Located in the heart of the city the galleries and arches of Charminar are of great importance to the tourists. The glass bangles are a must buy from Charminar. Close to the Charminar stands the Mecca Masjid. The mosque is large enough for nearly ten thousand men at prayer. Amongst the other mosques in the city are Jami Masjid and the Toli Masjid. Another tourist attraction in Hyderabad is the Falakuma palace. The palace was home to the last Nizam and stores the most expensive art objects, tapestries and carpets, in addition to the largest single-man collection of diamonds. Between Hyderabad and its twin city Secunderabad lays the Husain Sagar Lake.
This large artificial lake offers breathtaking views of Naubat Pahad, a hilltop crowned by the Birla temple. The Salar Jung Museum is another worth visiting place in Hyderabad. For the animal lovers Nehru Zoological Park is the perfect place for lion safari and watching other wild animals. Hyderabad is home to Osmania University also. It is the largest university in India and boasts of students from across India and abroad. State Central Library that was established in 1891 also makes an interesting tourist spot in Hyderabad.

Protect your health when you travel

2006-12-10T10:23:00.000+05:30

f you have any food allergies, learn the names of those foods in the languages used in the countries you’ll be visiting. This way you’ll be better equipped to stay on the look out for them.
Find out what types of diseases are common to the area you’ll be visiting and take actions to prevent your exposure to those diseases.
Find out what types of vaccinations you will need to enter the country, there may also be medications you’ll need to take before, during and even after your trip. Get your vaccinations early in case you have a reaction and need some recovery time.
You should consider a dental appointment if you haven’t had a check up in a while.
Be careful what you eat and drink.
Carry complete health information with you on your trip.
Consider joining Medic Alert or IAMAT, the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers.

Get a better rate on your Airline tickets

2006-12-10T10:15:00.000+05:30

Make your reservations as soon as you have decided on travel plans. Airlines give discounts for early bookings at least 21 days in advance. The best rates are often those that include a Saturday night stay and have travel dates during the week.
Shopping the Internet can be the quickest and easiest way to compare many different Airlines’ rates to find the best deals.
If you can be flexible about when you travel, do so. It can bring big savings. Even changing a flight’s time during the same day can effect the rate. Often the less popular early morning or late evening flights have lower rates.
The best rates tend to be found during the off season and at other times when the Airlines are flying at less than capacity.
Check into splitting your trip into two roundtrip sections. A stopover at a midpoint could save you over flying a direct route. Although, make sure the saving are large enough to warrant the extra hassles of the stopover.
Check into booking your travel plans as a package. You might be able to save by booking your Airline tickets along with your hotel room or rental car.
Ask if this is the best rate that they have available when you are booking your reservation.
Apply any special discount programs for which you are eligible.
When you reach check-in, ask to see if any special upgrade deals are available.

Find the best Hotel for your kids..Facts to be considered when selecting hotel for kids..

2006-12-03T21:03:00.000+05:30

What type of pool does the Hotel have?
Does the Hotel have a kiddy pool?
Does the pool have a lifeguard on duty? When is a lifeguard on duty?
Does the Hotel have a common play area? Is this area supervised?
Are nonsmoking rooms available?
Can you book adjoining rooms?
Are rental cribs available?
Does the Hotel have cots or roll outs available for rent?
Does the Hotel’s restaurant include a kid’s menu?

Source

Protect your health when you travel...(Get help to travel healthy..)

2006-12-02T21:00:00.000+05:30

The World Health Organization’s International Travel and Health web page. This site contains information on recommended vaccinations and general health advice for travelers.

www.who.int/ith/english/index.htm

Geographical distribution of potential health hazards to travelers web page. This site contains information, divided by regions of the globe, on potential health hazards for travelers within that region.

www.who.int/ith/english/region.htm

Pack in carry-on luggage..It's safer way to pack your valuables..

2006-12-01T20:35:00.000+05:30

Since luggage can be lost, your best defense is to keep all valuables in your carry-on bag.
Your travel documents, itinerary and coupons..
Your valuables, such as jewelry and electronics..
It is best if your carry-on bags are plain.
Address and phone numbers of friends, relatives and contact phone numbers of your doctor.
A copy of your credit card numbers and contact information.
A copy of your travelers checks and contact information..
All your medications, since it will be less likely to be lost than your checked luggage. Your carry-on will also do less harm to temperature-sensitive medication.

Holiday in Kashmir

2006-11-26T11:39:00.000+05:30

Jammu and Kashmir, the crowning glory of India. India's northernmost state and crown of India, Kashmir is a Paradise regained. Kashmir is so precious, no outsider is allowed to own land here. Experience the beauty of Jammu and Kashmir with Kashmir Hub. The state has three regions - Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.

Each region is beautiful in its own way. Nature has blessed Kashmir with incredible beauty. Stay in luxury houseboats on the beautiful Dal Lake in Srinagar, go skiing in Gulmarg and Patnitop, view the majestic Himalayan peaks, see Chinar trees turn russet in autumn, and enjoy a holiday in Kashmir with Kashmir Hub. See the vibrant colors of the flowers in the gardens of Kashmir with Kashmir Hub and understand why Jahangir, the Mughal Emperor said, "If there is a Paradise on Earth, it is here, it is here, it is here." Experience a trip to a paradise called Kashmir

Kerala- God's own country

2006-11-13T11:20:00.000+05:30

It is a purified world in Kerala, the land of trees. A big, spreading tree purifies as much air as a room air-conditioner. And the former is never switched off. The prolific, bustling, vegetation acts like a massive, biological, air-filtration plant working round the clock, round the year. Hence spending days in Kerala countryside is as if spending in an air- purified environs; some times better than it. So is the rejuvenating effect of the lush greenery of the state.
Kerala is a land of rivers and backwaters. Forty-four rivers (41 west-flowing and 3 east-flowing} crisscross the state physique along with countless runlets. During summer, these monsoon-fed rivers will turn into rivulets especially in the upper parts of Kerala.
Kerala is a green strip of land, in the South West corner of Indian peninsula. It has only 1.1 8 per cent of the total area of the country but houses 3.43% of the the country's population.

In 1956, when the states were reorganized, Kerala was formed after tying the princely states of Travancore and Cochin with Malabar, a province under Madras state.

Kerala may be divided into three geographical regions: (1) High lands, (2) Midlands and (3) Lowlands. The Highlands slope down from the Western Ghats which rise to an average height of 900 m, with a number of peaks well over 1,800 m in height. This is the area of major plantations like tea, coffee, rubber, cardamom and other spices.
The Midlands, lying between the mountains and the lowlands, is made up of undulating hills and valleys. This is an area of intensive cultivation. Cashew, coconut, areca nut, cassava (tapioca), banana, rice, ginger, pepper, sugarcane and vegetables of myriad varieties are grown in this area.
It is a purified world in Kerala, the land of trees. A big, spreading tree purifies as much air as a room air-conditioner. And the former is never switched off. The prolific, bustling, vegetation acts like a massive, biological, air-filtration plant working round the clock, round the year. Hence spending days in Kerala countryside is as if spending in an air- purified environs; some times better than it. So is the rejuvenating effect of the lush greenery of the state.
The wanton growth of trees makes Kerala a herbarium. The four month-long, copious monsoon and recurrent flurry make this land a perfect nursery for all living beings. Loitering under the canopy of the foliage, you will feel blossoming the dreams. Thus, on a sojourn in Kerala, away from the rough and tumble of cities, you're breathing freshly purified air all the time.
Flora: Kerala has over 25% of India's 15,000 plant species. Among them include endangered and rare species, flowering plants, fungies, lichens and mosses. The state's forest wealth include tropical wet evergreen, semi-green and tropical most deciduous. Teak, Mahogany, Rosewood and Sandalwood are common, the forests abound with orchids, anthirium, balsam, and medicinal plants. banyan figs, bamboo as well as 40,000 years old grasslands. Mangroves are seen in coastal areas and low, morass lands. So fertile is the state, thanks to rivers and dams that are replenished by copious rain in Western Ghats

BANGALORE - THE GARDEN CITY

2006-10-03T09:40:00.001+05:30

The founding of present day Bangalore is attributed to the Magadi Chieftain, Kempe Gowda, who laid its foundations in 1537. According to local folklore the present name Palace in Bangalore Image Bangalore, derives from 'Bendakalooru' or the town of boiled beans, a name given by Veera Ballala, a king of the Vijayanagar dynasty, who having lost his way in the forests was given a bowl of boiled beans by a kindly woman here. However that may be, the founding of the city is traced back to 1537 and it has seen the rule of the maharajas of Mysore mainly. One of the factors that has gone in to make Bangalore the fifth largest city in India today is its mild and healthy climate. A large number of people, many from outside the region have thus made the city their permanent home. Thus the city has a fairly large number of people who are retired from active life and others who are here for exclusive pleasure seeking.

Switzerland

2006-09-02T09:34:00.000+05:30

The diversity of the landlocked, mountainous country is the essence of Switzerland and gives the country its unique identity. Still, it is best known for its financial institutions, fine cheeses and chocolate, watch making industry, for its scenery and an excellent network of public traffic.

Major Cities: Baden, Basel, Bellinzona, Bern, Biel, Brig, Chur, Fribourg, Genève, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Lausanne, Locarno, Lugano, Luzern, Martigny, Montreux-Vevey, Neuchâtel, Schaffhausen, Sierre, Sion, Solothurn, St. Gallen, Thun, Winterthur, Zug, Zürich.

Climate: Because of its central position, the weather is influenced by the four main European air currents - from the Atlantic, the eastern continent, the northern subpolar region and the Mediterranen south. The climate is temperate on the Central Plateau, otherwise it differs considerably from region to region

Goa. time out from life as you know it.

2006-08-20T22:26:00.000+05:30

More vacationers visit Goa every year then any other destination on the west coast of India. Why? Wonderful climate. A glorious history richly preserved in churches, forts, traditional homes, villages and its cities. Spectacular pageantry. Colourful festivals. Warm and gracious people. Superb cuisine. Goa is one of India's most laid back, yet sophisticated and exciting , destinations. From miles and miles of sunny beaches, to the splendors of its quaint cities, towns and cobbled alleyways, Goa is more than just beaches and sunshine. It's also the charm and magic of toxic resorts, a verdant green countryside, lush green forests and abundant wildlife topped with the legendary warmth and hospitality of the Goan people.

And away from the beaten track , travelers discover a romantic and other-century goa in its medieval small towns, and beautiful villagers, with rich flora and fauna. There is so much to see and yet at the end of it all you feel there's too little time.

A truly exhilarating out of this world experience that only Goa can provide. Whether it's fun adventure , sunshine, spirituality or just plain relaxation, you don't need to look beyond the magical land of Goa