Flowerhorn cichlids

Flowerhorn cichlids are ornamental aquarium fish noted for their vivid colors and the distinctively shaped heads for which they are named. Their head protuberance, or kok, is formally termed a "nuchal hump." 

Like blood parrot cichlids, they are man-made hybrids that do not exist in nature. First developed in Malaysia and Taiwan, they are now kept by fish hobbyists worldwide.

The flowerhorn in the picture is SANTINO, champion in small category.

Basic tips for Flowerhorn Keeping:

The Flower horn is a sturdy fish that is not hard to care for. It needs neutral or slightly basic water, a water temperature around 28º C and nutritious food.

The aquarium has to be quite large, since the Flower horn can grow big. You can keep your Flower horn alone in the aquarium. Large cichlids from South America that will not tolerate being bullied by the Flower horn is one example of suitable tank mates. Since the Flower horn is a territorial species you should fill the aquarium with decorations that create natural borders. If the fish can keep out of each others way and stay inside their own territory, the amount of aggressive behaviour will decrease. Keep in mind that some Flower horns like to destroy plants. 

As mentioned above your Flower horn will appreciate neutral or slightly basic water conditions. It is however a though fish and will survive in a wide range of different water conditions as long as you avoid the extremes. A Flower horn will produce a lot of organic waste since it eats a lot. You must therefore perform frequent water changes to keep the water chemistry at suitable levels and prevent the organic compounds from reaching toxic levels that will harm the Flower horn. A 20 percent water change twice a week is the best solution, but once a week is usually okay if you change 25 percent.

It is not hard to introduce a Flower horn to new food. The Flower horn is an energetic and active fish and its metabolism requires plenty of food which makes this fish surprisingly hard to over feed. Feeding your Flower horn two or three times a day is a good rule of thumb. High quality pellets can be a good base and should be supplemented with more meaty foods such as shrimps and worms. With a varied diet it will be easier for your Flower horn to receive all necessary nutrients in order to stay healthy and good looking.

Source : amazingworldonline[dot]com

Sunrise at Mount. Kailash..

Mount Kailash,Gangs Rin-po-che, meaning "precious jewel of snows"  ( གངས་རིན་པོ་ཆེ། )  

Mt. Kailash is a holy mountain in western Tibet.

It lies near the source of some of the longest rivers in Asia: the Indus River, the Sutlej River (a major tributary of the Indus River), the Brahmaputra River, and the Karnali River (a tributary of the Ganges River). It is considered a sacred place in four religions: Bön, Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism.

Elevation 6,638 m (21,778 ft)

Source: Wikipedia

Slideshow of Kailash Kora Set  - Click here -

Every year, thousands make a pilgrimage to Mt. Kailash, following a tradition going back thousands of years. Pilgrims of several religions believe that walking around Mount Kailash on foot is a holy ritual that will bring good fortune. This is done in a clockwise direction by Hindus and Buddhists. In the Hindu tradition the spiritual centre of the Universe is represented by Mount Kailas. The Buddhist tradition calls the Sacred Mountain as Mount Meru which again is a symbol of the highest point in the spiritual Universe from where the whole of Creation can be contemplated. It is called Meru or Sumeru, according to the oldest Sanskrit tradition. Followers of the Jain and Bönpo religions circumambulate the mountain in a counterclockwise direction. 

The path around Mount Kailash is 52 km (32 mi) long.  Some pilgrims believe that the entire walk around Kailash should be made in a single day. This is not easy. A person in good shape walking fast would take perhaps 15 hours to complete the 52 km trek. Some of the devout do accomplish this feat, little daunted by the uneven terrain, altitude sickness and harsh conditions faced in the process.

Indeed, other pilgrims venture a much more demanding regimen, performing body-length prostrations over the entire length of the circumambulation: The pilgrim bends down, kneels, prostrates full-length, makes a mark with his fingers, rises to his knees, prays, and then crawls forward on hands and knees to the mark made by his/her fingers before repeating the process. It requires at least four weeks of physical endurance to perform the circumambulation while following this regimen. The mountain is located in a particularly remote and inhospitable area of the Tibetan Himalayas. A few modern amenities, such as benches, resting places and refreshment kiosks, exist to aid the pilgrims in their devotions.

Walking around the holy mountain has to be done on foot, pony or yak; it takes three days of trekking starting from a height of around 15,000 ft to crossing the Dolma pass (19,000 ft) and encamping for two nights en route. First, near the meadow of Dirapuk gompa—2 or 3 km before the pass and second, after crossing the pass and going downhill as far as possible (viewing Gauri Kund in the distance).

Source : amazingworldonline[dot]com

5 Off-the-Beaten-Path Vacation Activities in NYC

Planning a trip to the Big Apple? New York City is a world-renowned culture hub with thousands of things to fill your itinerary. While there are plenty of major attractions you won’t want to miss, here are a few lesser known activities that will give you the big city experience while avoiding the crowds and saving you some big bucks as well.

Graffiti Hall of Fame

Officially named legal public art, this wall on Park Avenue encloses a playground outside of the Jackie Robinson Education Complex. Its only nearby rival is 5 Pointz Aerosol Arts Center which, while not official sanctioned (yet), is largely considered the best outdoor graffiti museum in the world. It draws hundreds of visitors every year, both artist and tourist, to view over 350 brightly colored murals, and has become an ideal scene for several R&B music videos.

Photo credit: Jez Arnold

Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market

A bargain-lover’s paradise, this street market was name one of the Top Ten Shopping streets in the World by National Geographic. Here artists, locals, and tourists heckle sellers for antiques and vintage clothing, home décor, jewelry, and more. This is a great place for rare finds that will have people back home talking.

Photo credit: Paul Stein

Improv Comedy Show

A budget-friendly alternative to spending hundreds of dollars on a Broadway performance is to check out a love improve comedy show. There are several theaters in the city where aspiring comics test their funniest routines, often pulling audience members onstage with them to be part of the act. If you’re ready to laugh until you cry, an improve show is the perfect way to spend an evening. And for $10 or less per person it’s quite a bargain for a couple hours of entertainment in this city.

Tour Central Park

One great way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city is to spend some time in Central Park. There are plenty of things to do in Central Park along the 46 miles of pathways, including a big carousel, The Plaza Hotel, The Met, a waterfall, famous statues, museums, and an ice rink. Also, keep your eyes open for the spots where hundreds of Hollywood favorites were filmed. If you’re hoping to hit only the highlights, try a walking or bike tour where a tour guide can point out the most memorable sights.

Photo credit: Christopher Schoenbohm

South Street Seaport

Anyone who’s ever stumbled upon this quaint maritime village is no doubt confused about its contrast to the rest of the Big Apple. Wandering through historic cobble-stoned shopping district is a breath of fresh air outside of the rest of the city. It also has some of the best views available in the city, including the NYC skyline (which will take your breath away at sunset), the Brooklyn Bridge, and the East River. This is a great place to wind down after a long day in the city, and a great place to take some great pictures too.

Photo credit: 12th St David

Source : travelerspress[dot]com

LIGHT PILLAR PICTURES: Mysterious Sky Shows

Light pillars appear as eerily upright luminous columns in the sky, beacons cast into the air above without an apparent source.. 

A light pillar is a visual phenomenon created by the reflection of light from ice crystals with near horizontal parallel planar surfaces. The light can come from the Sun (usually at or low to the horizon) in which case the phenomenon is called a sun pillar or solar pillar. It can also come from the Moon or from terrestrial sources such as streetlights

Light pillars are a kind of optical phenomenon which is formed by the reflection of sunlight or moonlight by ice crystals that are present in the Earth’s atmosphere, or from artificial ground sources such as street or park lights. 

The light pillar looks like a thin column that extends vertically above and/or below the source of light. The light pillar is prominently visible when the Sun is low or lies below the horizon. It normally forms an arc that extends from five to ten degrees beyond the solar disc. Light pillars can sometimes also be seen arising from the Moon.

Source: Wikipedia

Source : amazingworldonline[dot]com

The Victoria Falls: the Smoke that Thunders [VIDEO]

The Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya (Tokaleya Tonga: the Smoke that Thunders) is a waterfall located in southern Africa on the Zambezi River between the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe.

While it is neither the highest nor the widest waterfall in the world, it is claimed to be the largest. This claim is based on a width of 1,708 metres (5,604 ft) and height of 108 metres (354 ft), forming the largest sheet of falling water in the world. 

Most of the tourists from all across the world enjoy their vacations with their family members in the lapse of these huge water curtains. The great Victoria Falls of South Africa are one of the Seven Wonders of the World today. 

The water falls also includes the weathered rock pieces which crumble down into the Zambezi Gorge below. The falling water of these extremely gigantic curtains creates a cloudy atmosphere and a foggy appearance at a height of 450 meters above the sea level. This foggy view can be clearly observed by the tourists at a distance of 40 kms away from these falls and it mainly attracts the tourists towards itself.

The tourists can enjoy the mesmerizing splendor and beauty of these falls throughout the year. The temperature is mostly humid and moderate which is best suited to attract a large no of tourists towards its attractiveness. The cascading chilled water of these waterfalls depends on the amount of rain fall which took place throughout the year and it also depends on the catchment area of the River Zambezi. As the catchment area of Zambezi River expands, the amount of water in the river also increases.

These exotic waterfalls offer many attractions to the tourists like water surfing, river rafting and river boarding. The Victoria Falls along with the nearby landscapes have been declared as the world heritage site. It is really a captivating destination where you can seriously enjoy a couple of days and make your vacations memorable.

Source: Travlang

Victoria Falls [VIDEO] 

Copyright 2007 - Playomatic Media Group

Source : amazingworldonline[dot]com

Inspirational story of One-Armed Surfer Bethany Hamilton

22-year-old Bethany Hamilton lost her arm due to shark attack when she was just 13. But that didn't stop her, now Bethany is the most famous one-armed surfer in the world.

Bethany Hamilton has become a source of inspiration to millions through her story of faith, determination, and hope. She was born into a family of surfers on February 8, 1990, on the island of Kauai, Hawaii. 

On October 31, 2003, at the age of 13, Bethany was attacked by a 14-foot tiger shark while surfing off Kauai’s North Shore. Bethany had to loose her left arm in the attack. After losing over 60% of her blood, and withstanding several surgeries without infection, Bethany was on her way to recovery with an unbelievably positive attitude. Lifeguards and doctors believe her strong water sense and faith in God helped get her through the traumatic ordeal.

Miraculously, just one month after the attack, Bethany returned to the water to continue pursuing her goal to become a professional surfer.

In October 2004, Bethany shared her life story in her autobiography entitled Soul Surfer.  Seven years later, the book was made into a major motion picture bearing the same title which  released theatrically in April, and for home entertainment in August, 2011.

Since losing her arm, Bethany’s story has been told in hundreds of media outlets and she has  been recognized with numerous awards, public appearances, and various speaking engagements.

credits: bethanyhamilton.com/

Source : amazingworldonline[dot]com

Take an Exotic Caribbean Sailing Break in a Chartered Boat

Sail a yacht through mangrove forests and coral reefs off the Bahamas. Or charter a power boat to travel between St. Barts and St. Martin, or around the Virgin Islands. Whether you choose a crewed boat or sail on your own, sailing helps you to visit the Caribbean beyond its tourist resorts.

Photo credit: katiew

Sailing Yacht

Few places in the world are better for sailing than the Bahamas. Whether you are an experienced sailor or just hoping to learn, this part of the Caribbean has lots of ports and harbors outside the tourist areas that are easy to find. It’s an ideal area to charter a sailing boat for a day or part of a day. Travelers will have to prove their sailing expertise before they can bareboat charter. After this, a group of experienced sailors can even charter a flotilla of yachts where the lead yacht is crewed by experienced sailors who understand the local waters and can chart the route. Catamarans are the most popular boats around the Bahamas as they offer more stability and are more comfortable for inexperienced sailors among the crew.

Photo credit: Julie Falk

Powerboats

Powered vessels offer some of the best Caribbean boat charters for travellers between islands, or those who want to go scuba diving or deep sea fishing. The boat can come equipped with food and amenities, allowing the skipper and passengers to stop off at an isolated beach for lunch or dinner. You will be able to book a charter package or design your own tour for a week or even just a day. Power boats are superb for organising a water safari to sail around coral reefs and watch the Caribbean marine and bird life.

Crews

Boat owners who sail regularly along the local river or canal at home in England sometimes are not going to be able to tackle the currents of the Caribbean in open seas. A sailing boat can be chartered with a single skipper who acts as a tourist guide ashore for a small group. Alternatively, a skipper and full crew on a large sailing or power boat will allow the visitors to concentrate on enjoying themselves rather than working out the precise route. Trips can be arranged as romantic getaways for a couple, or as big occasions like a wedding party complete with reception, cake and champagne. The larger boats come equipped with full facilities to match any five star hotel. Even smaller vessels are complete with running water, bathrooms and comfortable bunks that work well for overnight stays.

The Caribbean offers endless possibilities for sailing holidays crewing your own chartered boat, or setting off with a skipper and full crew. Travellers can visit those parts of the Caribbean islands inaccessible to land-based visitors.

Source : travelerspress[dot]com

Why Brighton is Great for Family Fun All Year Round

When the winter settles in, it is all too easy to find yourself at home, bored and lost for how to spend the eagerly awaited weekend. The winter months bring the cold, the wet and sometimes even snow and ice, but when more than half the year is like this, we have to make the most of our free time in one of the best cities in the world.
Luckily Brighton can look stunning all year round, and although the population is nearly double in the summer, Brighton is well worth a visit through the autumn and winter.
Here are a couple of the great reasons to visit Brighton and East Sussex this autumn/winter.

Day Out at the Zoo

The zoo is a great day out, whether you’re visiting as a family, a couple, or even on your own. In Sussex, the local zoo is Drusillas Park, which is widely regarded as the best small zoo in the UK, and is a favorite for Moms and Dads looking to keep their kids occupied during the holidays and at the weekends. Being an indoor and outdoor activity, you may be thinking “why would I want to spend the day at the zoo in the colder, wetter months?” – Here are a few good reasons to take your family, date or yourself down the zoo this winter:

• Considerably fewer people in the zoo, so you get to see the animals better and get free roam of the zoo.
• Certain animals react better in the cooler months and are more entertaining to watch.
• If you wrap up well, even the coolest of days in the UK are manageable and you can always head to the indoor enclosures if it starts raining.
• Kids go crazy for animals, so if you are planning a family day out then it will be worth it to see their faces.
• Only on the rare occasion when UK weather is torrential, is a day out at the zoo worth a postponing.

Photo credit: Dominic Alves

Shopping Days Out

Brighton and Sussex are great places for shopping, not just for your classic high street retailers, but also for the out-of-the-ordinary. one-of-a-kind finds. Sussex has some great shopping hot-spots, but Brighton in particular is sighted as the go to place for an alternative shopping experience.

North Laines and South Lanes Brighton

These two areas of Brighton are separate and have their own distinctive feel, and are popular shopping destinations for people from all around the world. In the North Laines you will find many markets selling interesting world foods and handcrafted jewellery. As well as this you will find many second hand stores where you will be able to get your hands on imports from the USA to the Middle East. Dirty Harry’s and To Be Worn Again are two of the most popular vintage shops.

Photo credit: Antony Mayfield

Amongst all of this you are surrounded with small coffee bars and delicatessens, which are perfect when you need a break from the hustle and bustle.

In the South Lanes you are going to find more of the commonly-found clothes retailers as well as more high-end fashion stores. There is also a lot more restaurants and bars in the south lanes, if you need a breather from the shops.

Many people in Brighton would argue that the two separate areas attract different types of people, though I love spending time in both the North Laines and South Lanes.

Country Walks

Brighton is an interesting city as there are stunning parks and bits of countryside to break up the streets, and give you a perfect place to unwind and relax without being too far from all of the action.

Preston Park – If you like the sound of a country walk on a crisp winter’s morning whilst in Brighton, then Preston Park has to be one of the nicest places for it. Preston Park is a beautiful large open space just outside of the main city centre, and it is great for family days out, a romantic stroll or sporting activities. It is opposite the picturesque ‘Rockery’, where you will find city-wildlife at its best just minutes away from Brighton’s great bus service, which can take you into the city centre in moments.

Photo credit: Miles Sabin

Other great country walks are found at Devil’s Dyke or the ‘Under Cliff’ walks, if you like to look out at the sea as you walk. Devil’s Dyke is the longest dry valley in the UK, visited by people from all over the country looking for a scenic walk with exceptional views whilst surrounded by a huge variety of flowers, insects and wildlife that you can’t help but be captivated by.

The Under Cliff Walk is from the Brighton Marina to the outskirts of Saltdean , and makes for a great walk when the wind is down, as you get to look across the sea and coastline’s various small towns including Rottingdean and Peacehaven. You will find fitness enthusiasts tackling the 4.5km stretch by foot or bicycle as you walk under the chalk cliffs.

Source : travelerspress[dot]com

Ask the Concierge: 13 Necessary Items Vacationers Always Forget

Despite the saving, planning and prepping that goes into vacations, travelers still often forget the most basic and essential items on packing day. Since forgetting your phone charger or not packing enough undies could be enough to derail an upcoming vacation, here are 13 essential items vacationers often forget and how to remember to pack them.

Ear Plugs

Via Flickr by 4nitsirk

Sleeping in close proximity to all family members in one hotel room is enough to drive even the most patient of vacationers crazy. Trying to get a full night’s sleep in that packed hotel room while surrounded by snorers is sure to bring disaster. Always pack a few pairs of ear plugs to minimize noises both in your hotel room as well as the inevitable slamming doors and loud hotel guests outside the room. Avoid forgetting to pack ear plugs by always keeping a pair in your suitcase’s side compartment.

Electronics Chargers

Via Flickr by Nokero

You may have remembered to pack your phone charger, but did you remember the camera charger? Electronics can’t function for long without being recharged, so be sure you’ve packed every charger needed for the trip. Charge all electronics the night before your departure and place the chargers in the suitcase the following morning as you unplug each electronic. Grouping all chargers together in a sealable bag keeps them safe and easy to find.

Emergency Contacts

Via Flickr by lydia_shiningbrightly

Today, most people rely on their cell phone contact lists to find important numbers. However, if you happen to lose your phone while traveling, your emergency contact list would be lost right along with it. As an added precaution, write all emergency contacts on paper before the vacation begins and store the list in a secure place while traveling. This backup plan could save you a great deal of stress if a vacation disaster occurs.

Directions

Via Flickr by classicdreamer

Getting lost is often easier than assumed in unfamiliar places. While your smart phone may be equipped with GPS services, the service could malfunction or you could lose the phone at some point during the vacation. Pack a guidebook or write directions to your main places of interest before leaving home for easy navigating even if your smart phone fails.

Good Books

Via Flickr by Alexandre Dulaunoy

Few events are more frustrating than hoping to relax poolside only to discover that the book you’ve brought on vacation is a dud. Rather than picking up a few vacation books on a whim, select classics or top hits on the current best seller list. This ensures you’ll always be ready to relax with a good read from the airport to the beach.

Hair Styling Essentials

Via Flickr by Mitch Malone

From humidity to dry conditions, many elements affect your hair’s behavior while vacationing. Avoid the flat-effect by packing the proper hair styling essentials based on your destination’s climate. If you’ll be traveling to a humid environment, select anti-frizz products. If a dry climate is your destination, go for moisture-enhancing products. Also, remember to bring along an adapter for your blow dryer and curling iron if you’ll be traveling abroad.

Medication

Via Flickr by The Javorac

Vacationers often forget their medication bottles on the countertop after taking one final pill before leaving the house. Avoid this major mishap by setting the morning’s pill on the bathroom vanity the evening before your departure and then immediately place the medication bottle in your suitcase.

Proper Clothing

Via Flickr by kxande2

Pack for your destination’s current weather, not for the climate you’re leaving behind. If your destination boasts sunny and warm weather, stock the suitcase with shorts, t-shirts and sandals. However, one often overlooked outfit is the clothing you’ll wear to the airport on the vacation’s final day. This clothing should match the current weather you’ll be greeted by when returning home.

Snacks

Via Flickr by avlxyz

Food is often one of the largest vacation expenses. Line the suitcase with granola bars, fruit and other snacks to avoid the major markups on these items in tourist hotspot convenience stores. The snacks will then fuel your energy whether you plan to drive all night or while you’re waiting for a delayed flight. All snacks should be packed in a sealable bag to avoid messes.

Sunscreen

Via Flickr by rbbaird

Whether you plan to visit a tropical destination or somewhere a bit cooler, sunscreen should always be worn while traveling. Since climates vary, avoid sunburns by choosing a higher SPF than you would normally purchase. A small bottle of sunscreen is often sufficient for most vacations and should be packed with other lotions and skincare products in a sealable bag.

Toothpaste and Toothbrush

Via Flickr by Doey_

While toothpaste and toothbrushes would seem to be the easiest items to remember on the packing list, they are often left behind on the bathroom counter. Remember to pack your tooth-care items by purchasing travel-size products that can be kept in your suitcase between vacations. By doing this, the toothpaste and toothbrush will already be packed before you begin.

Undies

Via Flickr by 8one6

You may have remembered to pack undies, but did you pack enough for the entire trip? Running low on underwear at a vacation’s halfway point isn’t a situation anyone wants to face. To avoid this unpleasant situation, pack one and one-half times as many pairs as you would normally wear.

Walking Shoes

Via Flickr by seanmfreese

While you may wish to look styled and primped at all times during a vacation, high heels don’t mesh well with daylong site-seeing adventures. Pack at least one pair of comfortable walking shoes for any vacation to avoid sore feet or broken ankles.

Vacations are often derailed by the smallest of oversights. Avoid common packing disasters by knowing which items to bring on vacation and also by knowing how to best remember to pack them.

Source : travelerspress[dot]com

Vacation in Mollymook, South Coast, NSW, Australia

Have you ever considered a vacation in the south coast of new south wales, Australia? The south coast offer picture perfect scenery and the beautiful beachside suburb of Mollymook is a spot you must spend at least a couple of days.

Mollymook is located approximately 3 hours drive south of Sydney and just few minutes from Ulladulla and Milton. Mollymook is a beach paradise enjoyed by local tourists and visitors outside of Australia any time of year. Ideally placed within driving distance of Sydney and Canberra, this beautiful beach city is great for a relaxing vacation.

Photo credit: Steven

With its crystal clear waters and soft sandy beaches, Mollymook is a paradise on earth. Well known for its perfect surf, Mollymook hosts carnivals, state and national surfing and volleyball competitions to bring sport enthusiasts from all over the world. The safety and cleanliness of the Mollymook beach area also attracts families, making it ideal for just about anyone who wants to holiday in Mollymook. During the holiday season and weekends, the lifesavers from the Mollymook surf club patrol Mollymook beach. Mollymook Beach, Rennies Beach etc. are great surfing beaches. If you are an amateur and if you want to get some lessons, there are a few surfing schools around to help you get in to the water and catch those amazing waves.

Photo credit: Ryan Wick

There’s lot more to do than the beach and surf here. The nearby cities offer great variety of interesting things to do such as exploring the Morton National Park with its waterfalls, Pigeon House Mountain and Murramarang to experience the wonders of nature. Take a stroll through or be adventurous and hike through the abandoned coal mines and caves where you can find Aboriginal artifacts. If you are a shopaholic , then there are plenty of craft shops and souvenir shops along Princess Highway in Milton and Ulladulla. When your legs don’t want to carry you any more, sit, have a bite and a coffee in one of the inviting cafes or restaurants spread out in the beachside suburbs.

Mollymook also offers picturesque golf courses to have a swing while on holiday. A 9-hole beachside course and the other being a 18-hole Hilltop Championship Course. Enjoy the safe shallow waters of the Bogey Hole, a natural tidal pool located on Mollymook Headland, which is also a good snorkeling spot. Boogey hole is such a safe swimming spot for young ones. For the seasoned diver, there’s a good diving spot off Bannister Head. The area around Brush Island provides great locations for divers to explore shipwrecks.

Whether it’s fishing, swimming, surfing, snorkeling, golfing, whale watching or to see bottlenose dolphins catch a wave, Mollymook is the ideal location for a well relaxed and enjoyable holiday. Go further north and you will find Narrawallee, another spectacular beach with calm waters great for swimming, picnics or just getting some sun on the beach.

Source : travelerspress[dot]com

A Visit to Safed, the City of Kabbalah

If you’re traveling in Northern Israel, one of the spots that you won’t want to miss seeing is the ancient city of Safed, known as the City of Kabbalah. Safed has something for everyone — mystics and Kabbalistic teachers for spiritual seekers, ancient sites and excavations for travelers who want to explore the history of the area and a large art center for anyone who wants to experience Judaica and the Israeli art scene.

Safed has been a center of Jewish life since the time of the First Temple which existed in Jerusalem approximately 2500 years ago. The Crusaders built a fortress on the Safed mountaintop in the 11th and 12th centuries and a Muslim community was established after the Crusaders were forced to leave.

Safed rose to prominence in the Jewish World in the 1500s when many of the Jews who were exiled by the Spanish Inquisition moved to Safed. Among these new settlers were some of the greatest Kabbalistic scholars of the era. These rabbis studied and taught Kabbalah and during this period Safed became known as the City of Kabbalah, a name which still identifies it today.

The quaint Old Jewish City of Safed resembles a Spanish “Kahal” — Jewish Quarter — with windy alleyways, narrow lanes and stone houses that feature arched doorways and domed ceilings. The Jews who arrived in the 1500s built Safed on the mountainside in the same manner as they remembered their homes in Spain and this style continues to characterize Safed today.

There are many different religious, historical and cultural sites to see in Safed. You can survey these locations in a few hours or take a day or two to meander through the city and really experience the city’s sights and sounds.

Some of the most popular places for tourists include the ancient synagogues — the ARI Ashkanazi, the ARI Sepharadi, the Abuhav and the Joseph Caro synagogues. These synagogues are open daily.

The ARI — Rabbi Isaac Luria — was an eminent 16th century Kabbalistic scholar whose works later influenced the Hassidic movement. The ARI taught that understanding the mysticism that is embedded in the Five Books of Moses can guide an individual to strengthen his relationship with G-d and with his fellow man. The two ARI synagogues both existed during the ARI’s lifetime but were renamed after the ARI following his death. Each features different elements of Safed synagogue styles with ornate Arks that house the Torah scrolls, hand-crafted woodwork and a seating style in which congregants sit in a circle around the “bima” — podium.

The Joseph Caro synagogue was built over a cave in which, according to legend, Rabbi Caro sat with an angel and wrote the massive Code of Jewish Law. This Code encompasses the entire spectrum of Jewish law, traditions and customs and is still used by rabbis throughout the world as the basis for determining proper Jewish practice in every situation. You can walk around to the side of the synagogue and go downstairs to the cave and then return to the synagogue where you will see a “geniza” — archive — where ancient Jewish texts are stored.

Local legend relates that the Abuhav synagogue was built by Rabbi Abuhav in Spain in the 15th century. The Inquisition announced plans to destroy it so Rabbi Abuhav magically transported it to Safed. Other versions of the story recount that Rabbi Abuhav planned the synagogue in Spain and built it in Safed. Either way, the ornately-decorated synagogue is a favorite site for tourists who are enthralled with the decorated domed ceiling which depicts Kabbalistic imagery. The Abuhav synagogue houses a 500-year-old Torah scroll which Rabbi Abuhav wrote. It is still used on holidays.

Safed has dozens of galleries where artists exhibit Judaica, landscapes of Safed and Northern Israel and artwork which is inspired by Jewish mysticism. A mobile guide is available to take visitors through the city with explanations and descriptions of the sites, the history and the local stories and legends — the guide is available as a smartphone app but you can also watch the videos before you arrive in the city to prepare for your visit.

Source : travelerspress[dot]com

Planning Your Holidays in Vancouver Island: Things You Should Not Miss!

One of the best places to visit in Canada is Vancouver Island and there are so many sights there to see, and so many flavors to try, it almost seems impossible to make a list of just a few of them. So, I am not saying that these are the best places to visit but I’m giving you my “bucket list” of the ones that you should not miss. So Start your vacation by visiting them, and along the way you will be able to find more and more wonderful spots, and from there, you will be soon be working on your own bucket list. For the moment, this is my list of the best places to visit on Vancouver Island.

Photo credit: Jim Crossley

Central Island

The Central Island is what most people think of right away when they hear Vancouver Island anyway and they are right to do so because here are some of the best spots for both salt water and sweet water fishing. Personally I prefer the sweet water fishing because it is more like actual hunting, and you have a connection with the fish. But I love the seaside for all the rest, like swimming, sun bathing or simply walking down the beach, hearing the waves and smelling the salt in the air. And when it’s time to eat, I always love the restaurants here that have just what it takes to give you the real taste of the Central Island has the best restaurants to give you the perfect island taste.

Cowichan Valley

And speaking of eating, there’s nothing that goes better with a nice fish dinner than a glass of cold white wine. And If you are looking for the best wine around, the Cowichan Valley has some of the best wineries in North America. In fact, I have always believed that they can rival the wineries in the Loire Valley, except that they don’t have the historic background and the ages of advertising that have given the Loire its fame. In a few centuries, Cowichan Valley will no doubt be just as famous, and I am proud to be one of the first to start building that reputation.

North Central in Winter

If you really want to know Vancouver Island, than you absolutely have to visit here in the wintertime. The northern part of the island is home to some impressive mountain ranges, and there are plenty of slopes for skiing. The best part about it is that only here can you ski and still catch whiffs of the wonderful sea air. And the best part about it is that here alone you can ski and still catch waifs of the sea air. I know of only one other place, somewhere in Eastern Europe, where you can do that, and although it may be worth the trip, there is no need to go since the Canadian facilities slopes are only rivaled only by those in the Swiss Alps.

Photo credit: Moosealope

Pacific Rim

Finally, the Pacific Rim can give you a taste of the explorer’s thrill when sighting new land. You can visit dozens of coves and islands, and watch marine wildlife without disturbing the smallest fish–and all from a kayak. In fact, I have met some of my best friends while kayaking among those islands, because only the best of people will have a taste for this kind of adventure. And I guarantee you will always find it a pleasure to pull into a quiet little beach and explore impressions about the treasures of Vancouver Island.

Photo credit: James Wheeler

Source : travelerspress[dot]com

7 of the Top Beaches in India That Remain Unexplored by Travelers

India, no doubt is adorned with endless charms where travelers seeks to unwind while being very close to nature and excellent sightseeing attractions. Not only is this Asian nation dotted with spectacular pilgrimage sites, time-honored monuments, and natural wonders but is also bejeweled with sun-kissed beaches. Yes! It is a land of impressive beaches. The shimmering sand along with the never-ending waves is beyond the explanation of beauty. On my travel to Indian seashores I found that besides eminent coastlines of Baga, Marina, Calangute and Colva there are some unexplored beaches that are equally incredible and exotic as the more prominent ones! Let’s find out those off-beat beaches.

Varkala, Kerala

The abode of God, Kerala is renowned for its pristine beaches and azure waters. In its seashores, the incomparable beauty is contained. The backwaters are considered the center of attractions and cynosure of everyone’s eyes, however, Varkala, one of Kerala’s unexplored seashores, is undoubtedly attractive. At this place the, the vertical cliffs are appealing. There are a number of spas and water spouts at the other side of these sea cliffs. This shoreline if famous for its religious aura around it and it is believed that the holy marine will wash off all the sins and bad deeds. Well, this spiritual beach is located at a distance of 51 km from Thiruvananthapuram that one can access easily via rail and road.

Photo credit: Patrik M. Loeff

Agatti Island, Lakshadweep

This islet appears as heaven on earth because of its turquoise azure lagoons, glittering coral reefs, and shiny sand and lush coconut palms. Lakshadweep contains a series of 36 coral isles, which is about 50 kms far from Kerala’s western seaside. Agatti stands among those unexplored coastlines that tourists are unaware of. It is the single isle featuring an airstrip from where you can seize a bravura sight of the airfield prior to landing. The major attractions over here are fishing and water sports. Besides, this coastline is also perfect for relaxation and romantic holidays.

Photo credit: Oscar

Benaulim Beach, Goa

Goa that is considered the perfect paradise owing to its scintillating sands and oscillating coconut palms. Besides the Goa’s most prominent beaches like Baga, Colva, Dona Paula and Anjuna, Benaulim Beach is one of the un-heard and undisclosed coastlines in Goa. Yielding white sand plus black lava rocks add to its beauty. This lovely shoreline is to be found at the ending edges of Colva Beach that is largely explored for fishing. This safe and sound shore doesn’t contain the havoc of jelly fish. From Colva Beach it is 2-km away and from South Goa, west of Margo it is 7-km.

Photo credit: Roland van Stokkom

Radha Nagar Beach, Havelock

Miraculous environs with white sand are the splendor of Radha Nagar Beach. It is sited at Havelock in the aquatic beauty of Andaman & Nicobar Island. On Havelock, the awe-inspiring shore is also recognized as Beach No.7. This shoreline far from the reach of earsplitting sounds of vehicles and speedy city life is the ultimate place to lay aside all the woes and worries. From Port Blair and Chennai you can catch a flight to reach over there.

Photo credit: Andreas Hunziker

Malpe Beach & St. Mary’s Island, Udupi, Karnataka

Malpe, the fishing seaside is the natural waterfront of Udupi located in Karnataka. This seashore is famous for its picturesque beauty that offers an ideal holiday over here. The land mass of St Mary’s is about 30 minutes away into the marine from this beach. The atomized basalt rock over here is considered the cynosure at the shoreline. The only one of its kind rock formation is to be found in just few places of the world. You can get there by well-connected highways and the only way to reach out Maple Beach is through a boat from St. May’s Island from Malpe Harbour.

Talasari Beach, Orissa

The deep blue sea, golden sand, stunning panorama and pleasant climate conditions characterize the Talasari Beach located in Orissa. It is mostly untouched and stands among India’s stunning beaches. Well, this coastline is about 88 km away from Balasore city. Its sea water is serene and calm and the cool breeze running from the Bay of Bengal makes it an ultimate site hang out with friends and family. The well-connected highways simplify your travel concerns.

Mandarmani, West Bengal

Located at the northern borderline of the Bay of Bengal, it is finely distinguished by low waves and hard sands. It is absolutely calm, less populated and clean. In fact this shoreline is also considered as the longest travelable coastline in India. Here the view of sunset and sunrise is beyond description. From Kolkata you can find various means of travel to this beach.

Source : travelerspress[dot]com