The five day Golden Triangle tour gives you the best yet does not eat up into your time. Beginning at Delhi where the tour representative takes you to the hotel.  Delhi was at strategic advantage in the past and the present.

On the second day, you would head towards Jaipur which is around 562km from Delhi and is a five hour drive. Before that a tour of the capital of India is completed where we can see the Humayun’s tomb, Qutub Minar which is the tallest amongst the brick minarets, and many spectacular sights. It is no wonder therefore that these structures are a UNESCO World Heritage.

Jaipur or the Pink City is a tourist’s extravaganza. The Rajasthan capital is replete with colors, tales of chivalry and bravery and a heritage Indian city. There are nine sectors here depicting the nine universal divisions. The color and vibrancy is infectious here.

The third day of the Golden Triangle tour consists of a visit to the Amber Fort the place where the Indian King Raja Man Singh ruled over. Here the elephant ride is certainly a visual and personal treat and the fort on top of the hill completely leaves the tourist enthralled. The next place is the City Palace which showcases its architectural mix of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. The gardens, and views here from the Chandra Palace in the centre , the solar observatory Jantar Mantar, The Palace of Winds made of pink sandstone and the intricately carved windows or the Jharokas  exhibit the kaleidoscope of sights here.

The fourth day of the tour sees a visit to the historical city of Fatehpur Sikri which is situated around 260km from Delhi. A six hour drive to the city, this is also known as the Ghost city. Here we get to see the residential complex of Emperor Akbar, the tomb and mosque of Salim Chisti.

The last and the fifth day see us headed towards Agra and of course the much awaited glimpse of the Taj Mahal notwithstanding the Agra Fort. The symbol of unconditional love, the Taj Mahal is a feast for the eye and one is completely overthrown with the architectural brilliance of this monument. Then a visit to Sikandra to see Akbar’s tomb and back to Delhi.

At Delhi on the last day of the Golden Triangle tour, you could visit the memorial for Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, India Gate built in memory of soldiers who sacrificed in the World War I and the Afghan War, and the Indian President’s residence.

All in all this five day mini destination tour is certainly your money’s worth and is worth your time too.

Whenever you set out on a place, it is not required that you should have a complete planned schedule for it. There are days when you just decided on the spur of the moment that you would want to go somewhere where you feel you could unwind, relax and then get back to routine.

World over there are many places where there are spots for a sudden retreat. In India, such spots are endless. They are found like the drop of a hat, but many a time in spite of having a thorough knowledge we miss out on certain smaller pleasures. So there are ways of knowing and that is by narrowing down the options to basic five mini destinations.

India with its vast expanse of topography and extensive variation in climate and vegetation is the place which an explorer would never cease to have interest in. Thus to decide a mini destination here is like finding a needle in a haystack. Yet there are some broad characteristics of the place that could help us to pinpoint a destination there.

For example, if we are in the Northern Part of India, then we are sure about two things – Climate and physical features. We know that this part of India is very cold so we would have a hill station for sure and that too with snow covered peaks. Second the physical features means that there would be mountains and hills thus providing us with maybe trekking facilities and river water rafting. So a possible pin point in North India could be Kulu Manali. A quick destination to go to without hesitation as we know we will get the best there. A weekend package , a booking done and we could just drive down in case we live anywhere near that place. Destination One.

Again if we are in the Eastern Part of India, then we are sure about two things. One that it lies near the coast and the other that it has the lovely lands of Nepal, in the boundaries. Thus we could always go and visit the country nearby and if that is not possible then the nearby areas of Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram and Nagaland which give us the opportunity to know about the tribes there. This could be a quick getaway destination for people living near that place. Again there are beaches in Orissa and the Sun Temple there which could provide the best opportunity to combine travel with a religious touch. This is also a quick mini destination.

Coming to the western part of India, the land of Shivaji Maharaj and the land of historical stories. Here is where the terrain is undulating and mountainous. The first thought that comes to our mind with this description is forts and monuments. Then of course because of the mountainous ranges there could be hill stations on the top. So we get places like Mahabaleshwar, Pratapgarh fort, and many such places where we could go for a quick mini destination. We could drive down, go by train and even participate in the trekking and adventurous activities there. This could be a real perfect mini travel spot for people living nearby. Add a dash of Khandala and Lonavala with a small visit to Pune and our mini travel is fulfilled. There are many more such spots to locate and we can make it worthwhile.

Southern India – The land of temples, the land of Kanyakumari. If going to Kanyakumari is tedious then just take your car and drive down to Mahabalipuram. This is the place where the entire temple has been carved out of a single rock. Visit the place feel the difference and if you have the time to hop into a bus just go ahead and enjoy the grandeur at Madurai and the pious feeling at Kancheepuram. Your weekend would be complete with a small tour of Pondicherry. The great roads and the Portuguese touch here still remains.

Thus it is seen that there are so many such spots to visit in India that the list is endless. Be it Goa, or Mt. Abu, Shimla, or Vaishno Devi, Sunderbans or Shantiniketan, Rann of Kutch or Kanyakumari , to get a mini destination is no big problem. It is only the concept of understanding where to go and how to arrange that matters. We shall discuss that in the next article where we could find knowhow of how to pinpoint the place to visit.

So till then, choose, pick, enjoy and go for it.

• Panama Canal Cruise:
  Certainly among the best spots for cruise vacation, this is the engineering marvel that connects two oceans as well as splits two continents. Despite the fact that the humidity levels are high, you will still find it exciting to be on a cruise and experience all its pleasures. As the cruise takes you far in the ocean adorned with the plantations, spend some memorable times with your family.

• Aruba Cruise:
  You will be forced to change your opinion about Las Vegas as the ultimate destination of casinos and resorts. And Aruba will make you do so. This is the place for an enthralling Caribbean experience. Besides the pretty beaches that are always welcoming and soothing to eyes, you can enjoy some lovely days on the upper decks of a ship taking you on a tour of natural surroundings. And yes, you will surely admire the hospitability of the people here.

• Hong Kong Cruise:
  I know that this place is witnessing political unrest and not desiring economical condition. However, still it is among the best places for cruising. Millions of visitors just come at this British Crown colony (former name) to experience a great cruise vacation. This area has much to impart in terms of shopping, amenities, learning local languages, or tasting the delicacies.

• Cayman Islands Cruise:
  Now, since this is an archipelago holding a bunch of islands, you can expect the best cruising experience here. Check out the under water reefs, varieties of fauna and flora deep in the waters, and also shipwrecks if you are lucky enough to spot them. And yes while you are here, do not forget to shop here amidst the white sand sprinkled throughout. Why to miss one of the best Caribbean holidays?

• New Zealand Cruise:
  Now, this name appears unusual as it is not that famous for cruising. However, now the things have changed and the fact is that the nation is now among the hottest destinations with the spice of cruise liners welcoming you to explore a few exotic places. Be a part of the various events here, plan on your own to discover the hidden beaches, and hunt for some beautiful shells. Party with music and dance amidst the Kiwis at the end!

• Barbados Cruise:
  This is the land of total sophistication amidst enthralling surroundings. You will surely enjoy a trip here amidst warm sands and shimmering blue waters of the sea. The place is so good that even a month is not enough to explore its each nook and corner let it be via a cruise or drive. The top draws here are friendly people, tropical breezes, legendary places of Bridgetown, Paynes bay, Gibbs beach, Batts rock, and Folkestone Park and Mullins bay in St. Peter.

Castries, the capital, is the home to a harbor as well as the extinct volcano’s crater. The Public Market is worth a visit, which is one of the alluring sights packed with people and vendors except Sunday. Friday and Saturday mornings are totally packed. You will admire the shops and stalls from Columbus Square until the water pool. The local women are traditionally dressed of which the married ones wear the cotton headdresses adorned with the several tangled dots. You as a tourist should the bananas that are sold here in varieties and give out a different taste. And yes, if you desire, pack some St. Lucian handicrafts.

Then, grab the opportunity to take a trip to the Derek Walcott Square that is an impressive rectangle surrounded by a public library as well as the most noticeable Catholic Church called the Cathedral. The square is named so behind a Noble prize winner for literature, who was born here in 1930. Look for the devoted plagues in the park here. On of them is for the legendary icon, Sir William Arthur Lewis (1915-1979). He was one more Nobel Prize winner, but for economics. If you have noticed, his picture is also seen on the few EC$100 bills in the nation. All of these plaques are under the 500-year-old Simontree’s shade.

The Cathedral stands at the park’s edge, which is French edifice that was erected in the 19th century using cast iron, stone, and wrought iron. You can notice the West Indian iconography as well as the remarkable wall that boasts frescoes commemorating the Martyrs of Uganda. These sacrificial people gave up their lives by fighting with the soldiers of the dictator Idi Amin.

Being in the capital, you cannot miss to take a tour of Morne Fortune meaning the Hill of Good Luck. However as opposed to its name, this site has been the venue of the Caribbean battles that were fought between the British and French in the 18th century. Today fortunately converted into a tourist attraction, there is a museum, military cemetery, the Four Apostles Battery, the Victorian Government House, private beautiful gardens decorated purple as well as red bougainvillea, and a scenic perch. And at last, you can just enjoy the panoramic view including the Pigeon Island, Pitons, and the island of Martinique if the day is clear. This sight is accessible from the Bridge Street where you need to turn to the east.

Do visit the Pigeon Island National Historic Park, the first of its kind on the island to be linked through a land bridge. Within the park, you will come across two white sand beaches, a restaurant named Jambe de Bois, and the Pigeon Island where the red-neck pigeons were once present in huge numbers. Now a days, it is getting famous because of the Sandals Hotel and appealing vistas.

Just at 13 km from the capital, the Marigot Bay is an ideal yachters’ haven. Nestled on the west coast and offering some wonderful background shots, it is regarded as the most superb bay in the Caribbean. Since 400 years when once it was the home of the Carib soldiers, this palm-fringed shore is an immaculate destination for picnic. You can choose any of its two sides for fun, which are reached by a ferry service.

Regarded as one of the most exciting attractions, the Rainforest Sky Ride is meant for the people of all ages, especially all first-time visitors. This ideal picturesque ride runs as a Rainforest Aerial Tram. So, get ready to sit in an open-air Gondola where you will be accompanied by a guide to safely fly above the towering rainforest trees, dense vegetation, white magnolias, the lavender stars (flowers), and orange bursts. Want this rainforest pleasure journey? Well, just pay $72 per adult and $62 per child under 15.

The ideal time to visit this island is winter from December to March.

With plenty of sightseeing options available in Abu Dhabi, you will get an informative insight into the history and culture of this city. Also known as the garden city, a visit to the Hili Archaeological gardens will amuse you with archaeological finds of the times of Bronze Age.  The Arabian souks are world famous. You will find many of them in Abu Dhabi where you can shop till drop. The Heritage village will take you to the bygone era which will tell you how the native lived before the discovery of huge oil reserves.  The Corniche, a beautiful park by the seaside is just perfect for relaxation. The Abu Dhabi Cultural foundation will be perfect for those who love art, music and dance. The Al Hosn Palace also known as the White Fort is the home of former ruling family. Treasured exhibits of traditional artifacts and photographs will mesmerize you.

Although the city is world famous for its luxurious hotels and shopping festivals, but this city has also gained reputation when it comes to adventure activities. Kite safaris, desert safari, sailing, scuba diving; all will let you explore the lost adventure junkie in you. First time visitors should definitely attempt wadi bashing and powerboat racing. Go and try out ice skating and skiing too. You will have a ball all through your stay in Abu Dhabi.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be mesmerized by the country’s natural splendor. Sun baked landscapes, nature reserves, deserts, oases attract large crowds. A perfect paradise for the nature enthusiasts, here you will find a wide variety of flora and fauna. The Al Ain Zoo is home to antelopes, deers, sea lions, penguins. The zoo also boasts to be the only desert based aquarium for around 50 species of fishes. Recently tied the wedding knot and looking for a honeymoon, come to Abu Dhabi and you will be spell bound .take your spouse for a well lit candle lit dinner in the luxurious Abu Dhabi hotels. Take a walk hand in hand along the Corniche. The attractive landscapes along this road will make your evening more romantic. It is a promise that your honeymoon will be so memorable that the moments you spent with your loved one will keep ringing bells in your minds forever.

The milky white limestone facades and spires spearing the skywere all built several hundreds of years after medieval times had passed on by and the large windows dotting the exterior are proof enough that this was meant to be a summer home, not a fortress of any kind. Thank god for that, the world would have lost a priceless beauty had Neuschwanstein castle fallen to marauding attackers. Located near evergreen mountains and still lakes, King Ludwig’s corpse was actually found floating in one of these lakes not soon after he was said to go insane. His lasting legacy is Neuschwanstein, and he had it built in the 1860’s in memory of an era of knights and legendary figures gone by.

Clouds float by over villages and mountains, but the only thing proving that this, in fact,  not the 1860’s are the modern roads snaking their way across the landscape below. Colors seem more alive here than anywhere else, as the colors of the lake is more aquamarine than anything, the vegetation passing by me a rich shade of jade. But all of that paled in comparison when the bus rounded the corner and the castle came into sight, flirting with the sky. When the first impression is so awe-inspiring, there is no question as to why Walt Disney chose this as the motif for some of his most memorable locations.

Stepping inside, I instantly felt a sense of déjà vu, and I realized why this was the case; the only other place where this kind of elegance was seen was in Versailles, right from the oak-paneled walls to the elegant furniture dotting the palace, everything was tasteful almost in an extreme, but never gaudily so.

Having had my hearts fill of the castle from inside the palace, I moved over to the Marienbrucke bridge where I got some sensational photos from what was a terrific vantage point. It is, however, a 100 year old bridge and you tend to think twice about stepping on wooden planks that are that old. My eyes went automatically to the planks below, looking for any signs of strain. What transfixed me instead was the waterfall far below and then the castle again. For sure, it is one of the most regal and beautiful sights in all of the known world, and it is a sight of maddening beauty.

The Seychelles Islands, in all boasting a hundred and fifteen exotic cluster of islands that constitute the entire archipelago are scattered in the Indian Ocean, about a thousand miles east from African territories. These islands are surrounded by pristine waters which are also thriving habitat for many great aquatic species. The beauty of the place is so magnificent that one may not really believe that there can be a place as beautiful as this, marked with ‘pinch-me’ sessions.

Out of all the islands in the Seychelles archipelago, the island of Mahe is one of the main islands, imbued in picture-perfect beauty true to the island. The very first thing, I bet anyone would want to do, is run away to the immaculate beach and take a quick dip in the crystal clear sea. Being the cultural hub of all Seychelles Islands and also is an easy access point for a lot of travelers coming in to relish the bounty of this paradise of a destination. The island is a gateway into the other awe inspiring islands of Seychelles and also it is here where foreign tourists land. The International Airport of the country is located in the city of Mahe which provides easy access for the travelers coming in.

Apart from the scenic splendors of the Seychelles Islands, the visitors can also find a streak of culture in Mahe going about that will add further vibrant shades to ones vacation. The best way to explore the island is by renting a car. There are many rent-a-car agents that can be found and contacted easily. Also, the second best resort to explore the vicinity is best on foot. Nothing quite compares to meandering in the town and relishing the picturesque exquisiteness of the place. Furthermore, what sets Mahe unique is the tallest mountain peak that is in the region. The mountain provides excellent panoramic views of the Seychelles islands and beautiful views of the Indian Ocean. One can either take a flight to reach other islands or cruise in a boat to get to the neighboring islands of La Digue and Praslin. They are known to be other great destinations when it comes to holidaying in the Seychelles.

The north eastern part of Mahe is where lies the capital city of Victoria, abuzz with power-packed activities. The best deal is to go about swimming, snorkeling, scuba-diving, surfing in the pristine turquoise blue waters. The sun-sand-surf activity is at its best in Seychelles. Those who prefer the sounds and smells of the woods can go hiking in the lush green rainforests. With the sweet sounds of some of the rare species of birds, the rustling of trees, and the sounds of the waves hitting the shores – all make for once in a lifetime experience. Mahe inhabits a population of about seventy-two thousand, and also constitute a large part of the population of all Seychelles.

The most definite places to look for while on the Mahe Islands is the Mahe’s Morne Seychellois National Park, a perfect place for the nature enthusiasts who can up for some hiking in the park. One can also choose to explore the Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clark Market in Victoria to soak in the local flavor of the islands, unlike the laid back carefree times on the beach; one can spectacle the culture of the Mahe Islands at this very market.

There are many leading hotels and resorts which heighten your pleasure times. Much looked upon as a honeymoon destination, Seychelles is gradually overcoming the misplaced tags by those who want to wander at ny costs. Seychelles is also a very inviting family vacation spot as more and more resorts are becoming conscious of the needs of families coming over. Resorts feature special kiddy rooms where the staff engages the kids in a variety of interesting indoor activities and arranges events and competitions that will leave booth kids and their families happy and satisfied. While kids are engaged in the many activities, parents can have their own sweet time. Also, apart from indoor activities, the resort arranges for outdoor activities for kids like a ride in the glass bottom boats, snorkeling and swimming sessions etc. This is what makes Seychelles so delightful and enjoyable as it emerges as a top vacation experience for one and all in the family. A vacation in the Seychelles is definitely going to be like a dream come true, a dream so beautiful that you may not even have dreamt of.Going My Way at Mahe in Seycehlles.

But if you thought, that was all you could claim from the scintillating island of Malta, then you’re certainly quicker than a frog to leap to such conclusions. Apart from the sunny tales and the sandy affairs, it is the great and long-winding cultural legacy going down the sometime gory as well as a glorious past. A perfect holiday on the Malta Islands would entail beach adventure as well as tours to many great destinations with a historic significance all around the place. Since, the island of Malts is a rather compact place, it is easy for one to go about difference beaches and destinations, as they all are well-connected with each other at a short distance. This is what truly makes Malta one of the best and ideal places for vacation.

A bit of Geographic Orientation

The Republic of Malta consists a cluster of islands which nestles three most significant islands called the Gozo Island, Comino Island and last but by no means the least, rather the largest in all the three is the Malta Islands. While the islands are located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, above Libya and down below Italy, the capital city of Malta is the vibrant Valletta while the city biggest in expanse is the place of Qormi. There is a thick concentration of locals in the Birkirkara area.

Malta is just the right place for one and all!

Not only a honeymoon destination, but the wide array of activities that the place offers to the traveler coming in, also makes it a much family vacation spot to unwind from the city’s monotony and hustle-bustle. Vacations at Malta are perfect owing to the awe-inspiring locations, beautiful villages where fishing is the primary activity. So you can bask under the sun away to glory while trying to find your catch. All the leading hotels and resorts are concentrated on the northern side of the island. These resorts are in close proximity with all the leading destinations and areas of interest which can also be found on the northern part of the Malta Island.

From the many places of interest, the leading ones include the Qawra, Bugibba and also St. Paul’s Bay is the place where maximum number of plush hotels and resorts can be found. These small towns sprawled along the northern shores of Malta Islands makes for a highly flocked destination. With a number of beaches on the north coastline being rocky and terrain like, there are some beaches, though smaller ones out of which some can also be said to man made. These beaches make for a great place to absorb the sun-shine and reach the ocean waters.

Claim Your Share of Adventure under the sun

Form some of the best and largest beaches, head on to the eastern and northern sides of the island. The neighboring island of Gozo also emerges as a hot-spot for many marine activities like snorkeling and scuba-diving. The marine life can be spectacled here at its best than any other place. You can find a large number of aquatic species and have a time of your life under the oceanic waters.

For beach lovers, this is certainly what they shouldn’t be missing on. Gozo particularly boasts of Ramla il-Hamla, while in the north western region of Malta Island, do soak some sunshine at the Gnejna and Paradise Bays.

The best time to visit the island to avoid much tourist in-flow is the months of July and August. The night life at the Malta Islands is electrifying and abuzz with party animals from around the globe. It also makes for a great place to make some local acquaintance and break the ice with other travelers alike. A most definite yes on any traveler’s agenda, do zing up your next vacation to the spectacular Malta Islands.

Staying true to the Caribbean experience, the beach activities are certainly the main indulgence, but if that’s where one’s vacation experience wraps, then they’ve surely missed on a whole lot of fun. The rainforests of St. Lucia can be compared as a canopy of emerald over these most spectacular archipelagos of Caribbean. So, as the sandy affairs make way for some truly fantastic time to go about hiking in the woods, great views and panoramas can be spectacled from the cliffs. The sloping hills and lava mountains reach up to great heights, from where hikers and enthusiasts alike enjoy the great sights and scenery. The huge boulders rising from the crashing waves to great heights covered with green moss converging right against the bluish skies adds to the beauty of St. Lucia.

St. Lucia is abuzz with exotic sights, sounds and smells that makes for a memorable holiday. Do visit the north stretch of the island, where the Pigeon Island National Park makes for a great attraction. To witness a town-like feel, flock away to Castries where fast moving life keeps pace with the laid-back vibe of the island.

The bustling sounds of vehicles, the smell of freshly baked breads and the rhythms of reggae filling in the air is the true-blue feel of St. Lucia’s town of Castries. The Market place forms the heart of the town where the culinary smells find the narrowest channels to fume and fill the snarling streets with a peculiar aroma amidst a frenzy of sights of crowds and distinct smells. The packed streets with a fast life style sans any peculiar arty vibe yet it is however their hospitality which strikes an instant chord with the visitor.

The warm and friendly faces and a sultry climate and a living-for-the-moment spirit is a real retreat from the daily happenings of normal life to a place which enjoys every moment.

And how can there be no mention of the many aqua activities that make for one of the most looked forward indulgences. The scuba diving activity here leaves many a visitors happy and surprised at the sheer beauty of the marine world. The pulse of West India mixes with the Caribbean blues for a one of its kind experience. A definite yes on any traveler’s agenda, a trip to St. Lucia will last a long way on the memorabilia.

There are some exuberant places which tourists love to go around in Maldives. The oceanlife is simply great and tourists from all over the world love to throng at this place.

Some of the great places to visit in Maldives are as following. The Grand Friday Mosque, The National Museum, Mulee Aage Palace, Hukuru Miskiiy, Esjehi Art Gallery, Jumhoorie Maidan, Male Fish Market, and the best beaches of Maldives.

The Grand Friday Mosque is one of the largest and one of the most important mosques in the country. This mosque is considered to be the biggest mosque of Maldives. The mosque is dedicated to Al Sultan Mohammed Thakurufaanu al – A zam. This mosque is known for its grand and splendid architecture and was constructed by Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar in the year 1656.

The National Museum is also known as one of the main tourist attractions in Maldives. This museum is located in the “Sultan Park” which is considered to be a part of the Sultan’s palace and is considered to be a conversion of the old palace building.

Hukuru Miskiiy is again one of the very old mosques which had been established in the country of Maldives in the year 1956. This mosque was also set up during the time of Sultan Ibrahim Iskandhar.

Mulee Aage Palace is one of the most renowned palace in Maldives. Built in the year 1906, the construction of this palace was done during the reign of Sultan Mohammed Shamsuddeen III. It is said that the palace was built before the first World War for Sultan Mohammed Shamsuddeen’s son.

Esjehi Art Gallery is considered to be one of the oldest buildings in Maldives. This art gallery is established on the east of the Sultan Park and is among the very popular buildings in Maldives.

Artificial Beach is an amazing beach in Maldives. This beach is known to be one of the popular beaches in Maldives and also provides an excellent opportunity for swimming. This beach is considered to be an ideal place for swimming and the clear waters also pose to be a perfect place for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Jumhoorie Maidan is another place in Maldives which is very popular among the tourists. This Maidan is located along the waterfront north of Male, and was set up in the year 1989. This place is also known popularly as the “republic square of Maldives”. This place is famous for its green grass and the lush vegetation which is grown here. Also, this place is considered to be an ideal place for social gatherings.

Male Fish Market is another important and an interesting tourist location in Maldives. This is also considered to be one of the major tourists spots in the country. This market is believed to be the commercial hub for trading and this place is always crowded throughout the year.

The beaches of Maldives is another important and interesting destination to visit in Maldives. The beaches are simply amazing and they are a perfect destination for tourists who love to explore some of the beaches for some thrilling activities. All the beaches have excellent facilities of para gliding, para sailing, jet skiing, snorkeling, scuba diving and swimming.

Mohammed Thakurufaanu Tomb is another place which is considered to be one of the most interesting and the most amazing place to visit in Malkdives. This place is a site for great historic significance. Also, this is a place which is visited by tourists from all round the world, throughout the year.

Maldives is simply an amazing place to visit and there are some remarkable destinations where you can have lots of fun and also explore galores.