Where to go in March

March - the best time to travel to Ireland A fun and positive want at any time of year, but in March, it seems, this is particularly lacking after a winter of blizzards and bad weather. And where are able to have fun better than in Ireland? Also in March - the most exciting time in the Emerald Isle: the whole country, and together with her and all the Irish peace March 17 roughly mark the national holiday - the Day of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. This day, along with a green shamrock and the famous Guinness beer has become synonymous with all the Irish in the world. And although the Irish weather in March may be an unpleasant surprise, it did not interfere with fun - the Irish are not of those who will be depressed because of such trifles as bad forecast meteorologist. At the celebration in Dublin, Cork, Galway and other towns and villages of Ireland attracts thousands of visitors. Dublin At first glance, quite obvious that the Dublin - one of the most popular European cities. It is not as challenging glamor, as most major European cities, urban architecture rather messy, and themselves Dubliners are too simple, open, and pretty intemperate for sophisticated metropolitan gentlemen and ladies. Yet it is these little things and make Dublin a very special place. Often it is called the most charismatic of all the capitals of Europe, and, having been here a day or two, unwittingly agrees. Dublin Dublin - a city with more than a thousand years of history and interesting customs and traditions.

By deserted ruins of Ani kingdom - Part 2

TURKEY WITHOUT TOURISTS. Such things happen? (Continued, p.2) Reza - an ethnic Azeri from Iran and also a nice fellow. He's on his huge old truck with a trailer carrying bitumen. He was "Poppy", American truck production, which was brought to Iran when the Shah of them had good relations with the West. I had to climb a fairly high altitude to get into the cockpit, where I felt as if hit in the past. While we were shaking on a winding mountain road, I thought that I, Jack Kerouac (American writer and poet, one of the brightest representatives of the "beat generation", approx. Perevi.) Hitchhiker in America last century. I even exchanged a few words with Reza Farsi, however, the Azerbaijanis have their own language - Turk (in fact, called the Azeri language, it belongs to the southwestern branch of Turkic languages, approx. Perevi.). I like Kerouac He gave me a sweet biscuit with sesame, and I showed him my book on the languages ??of the Middle East. This book is almost always caused great interest among residents of the region. In the end, I decided to give him this book because I like it more was not needed, but he was so carried away by it that he began to read directly behind the wheel! The landscape outside was incredibly beautiful: mountains covered with green hills and green valleys are the same. We stopped at the roadside to make a 15-minute halt, along with other truck drivers, who were resting at a spring. Water in a spring was cold and fresh, straight from the mountains.

Vanuatu: rivers, beaches, waterfalls, caves - Part 1

Ahead through the jungle, Carol Hedges, Realtor, England We have come to the north, but the rain did not stop, even though it is much warmer. That's good. On the island of Tanna was cool. We caught a taxi and drove in the only hotel in town, which was the title of the word "beach". We rented a room without any problems. On the island was quiet, almost no tourists. On the beach at the Hotel Beachfront Resort "sand was black and the water is murky from the constant rain, but we liked the hotel itself. The bungalows were just the basic amenities, but it was hot water, and the staff of the newly decorated it with fresh flowers. This is a tradition, moreover, flowers create the perfect mood and transform the interior. Our hotel is the hotel we were approached by tour guide and asked what we're going to do. We wanted to go to several trips, but mostly we wanted to get into the cave Millennium. Guide said that, unfortunately, the water level rose, and the roads were blocked for several days, so we decided to go for half a day to see the sights associated with the second world war. Echoes of the Second World On the first night we ate at the hotel. The food was excellent, and steak - all delicious. In addition to our hotel lived mostly those working or living on the islands. They talk nice, especially because of the conversations with them we learned many interesting things. We had a great evening. Our hotel in Espiritu Santo in the morning we went to the village, which was much smaller town of Port Vila.

Scary story of Latin American province - part 1

MYTHS AND REALITIES OF LA ANTIGUA Anna, a journalist journey from Guatemala City to the town of La Antigua is no different from those roads that lead from the noise in the provincial capital's streets calm heartland. The whole path takes about 40 minutes and runs from the mountains of Valle-da-la-Hermite to the foot of three volcanoes - Agua, Fuego and Akatenando - where is the city of La Antigua. Guatemala City - the business center of this country, as befits the capital. Here, everything is kept on the trade and industry. Urban air polluted by car exhaust and clouds of black smoke that constantly hangs over the streets. If you open the machine, the toxic gases to instantly get in eyes, nose and mouth, from which it becomes hard to breathe, and mouth comes a bitter aftertaste. Endless rows of factories and auto centers, delineating lines of roads, replaced by a string of supermarkets and shops, ready to serve customers at any time of day and night, offering them everything they needed and not needed. Difficult to understand what they do huge crowds in all of this fuss. It is unlikely that they have something to buy. Rather, they just spend time together. Signs and billboards complement this picture, lost against each other and the web of electrical wires. All mixed up, and do not get anything heard in the incessant din of street traffic. Many Guatemalans live here, willy-nilly becoming part of this mess. Their house is almost completely hidden from view, but you can imagine the living conditions that they have reconciled.

Gulf of Mexico: Galveston, Texas.

Country Lord of the Rings - Part 3

The Thai island of pristine beaches

Koh YM, Also known as KO PU Koh Yam is located near the western coast of Thailand, between the provinces of Krabi and Koh Lanta. The most convenient way to get there by boat, which runs from Krabi to Koh Lanta. The boat did not come to the shore a little before Ko Yama, and you have to go through another round of water on the boat one of the peasants living in the countryside. Another option - rent a boat that will take you to the destination "direct flight". Ko Yam draws its beautiful scenery and the fact that there is poorly developed tourist business. No souvenir shops and street vendors, and only a handful of travelers. The atmosphere is very domestic, intimate atmosphere. Here you will find only the sea, sandy beach, sun and good food. And yet, this is the perfect place to rest for a few days or more, read books, enjoy the sunshine and delicious seafood. Liz (left) and I get from Krabi to Ko Yama on the boat with the family boater. Mere traces of Our cottage was fairly primitive, electricity included only six and twelve o'clock, and the bathroom had no hot water. Nevertheless, our simple house was cozy. There was a lot of "air vents". Through the cracks in the floor was visible earth, and the roof was not a barrier to birds which could fly in freely inside. Fortunately, we had a mosquito net. Our housing staff is very friendly and always ready to help, but the food is ready - simply stunning beaches are untouched by civilization, and to get from one beach to another is possible only by boat or on the "dirt" road in the jungle.

Through the whole of Spain on foot - Part 3

THE WAY OF ST JAMES: THE ROAD AS A TEST OF THE SOUL AND BODY (continued, part 3) Way of St. James, if all the increases - small physical or mental pain can be significantly exacerbated if a whole day just to go on and on. There is a lot of time to think, that in itself becomes a test of which the strength can be compared with the physical, in fact have to go, and every evening to stay in the smelly, often cold and crowded hotels. And the companions come across different, sometimes they please, and sometimes - just drives you crazy. Importantly - pay attention to their inner spiritual status, and try not to react to the negative signs and the road again, dear, dear ... The prose of life, hike, and signs on the road from the very beginning of the campaign, it became clear that not every night we can sleep peacefully. Our first encounter with a typical shelter (many beds in one big room) has happened in the town Ronseval, the Spanish side of the Pyrenees. It was the first and last time we heard people snore ... loudly ... especially when there are four dozen people! This group grew, and snort at the peak of deafening noise was interrupted for 30 seconds. Not surprisingly, the earplugs are very popular among pilgrims. One of the girls that came along with us, trying to wait until everyone else asleep, and then to fall asleep by herself. The fact that she was crying, very loudly, shouting in his sleep. In general, the route of St. James Way to go pretty easy. Numerous signs in the form of shells or yellow "flechas" (original arrow) was easy enough to notice.

Through the whole of Spain on foot - part 1

THE WAY OF ST JAMES: THE ROAD AS A TEST OF THE SOUL AND BODY, Eric and Zoe, artists Pilgrimage means for the soul the same as the rest for the weary mind and body. (S. Kumar, a player of Indian cricket club "Assam") It's been a long time since we wrote about his travels, but we decided that tell you about one of our latest travel after return to Europe. We believe that our notes on the travels are very useful for ourselves, when we plan future trips. In addition, from the letters that we receive, we realized that many other People also believe that our experience is useful for them. We decided instead to describe our stay in Spain, day after day, to share our story into chapters to make it easier to read. Let's hope that, along with photos we get a coherent story . We also hope that if someone wants to learn more about the Way of St. James, our comments will be useful to him. From time to time our trip was one of the most difficult and painful, but it also brought us much joy and excitement. We even decided that when will walk the entire route, a fountain from a bottle of champagne, as after the completion of road and bicycle races. We can not really list everything that happened to us - we were invited to the elders in the small local houses, were treated to wine and Empanada (pastry with filling) We wade the river, because it is so wet, that we already had all the same, but at the same time on the same day had to go through another 20 kms, good innkeeper, sheltered us, dripping and shivering, in a room above his pub, did not take money for billeting and yes even entertained the best dinner in the world, we met a man very much like Abraham Lincoln, who showed us to our hotel, one Korean was convinced that a Gypsy, which we walked together, was a witch (seriously!).

How to choose a travel agency in Suriname - Part 2

Paramaribo - CARIBBEAN AMSTERDAM (continued, p.2) In the evening I again went into the city, but the city was still quiet. This is weird. I'm used to in Brazil to the noise and din. I had dinner again in the "Burger King". On the waterfront is full of restaurants, but I'm tired and I was too lazy to go there. Tomorrow I think to try something out of the local cuisine. The next morning I woke up when the door of my room knocked on the hotel employee on behalf of Arun - a lovely girl, whose ancestors were apparently the Indians. She brought me an envelope from the travel agency Metso, which I ordered the mission to preserve Ghalib, where it was possible to see the turtles. I went to their offices and asked if I could pay cash. I was told that, yes, but without asking me, was discharged from the dollar. I said I wanted to pay in Suriname "MNT. I have written a new account and have no idea why they could not fix the old one. According to their calculations I had to pay 747 Surinamese dollars, I took the calculator and figured that with the current exchange rate per U.S. dollar (2.75) was to get 772 dollars. I told them about it. Clerk went to his head and returned, said in a re they take into account the euro exchange rate, so that the trip will cost 180 euros. They then took the U.S. dollar in Suriname and Surinamese dollar, here too I do not know. In principle, it was right, although I told them that when I called the price, none of them bothered to inform me that the price in euros.

Heart of the Revolution in the Western Hemisphere

Havana, the Cuban capital of Havana (La Gabbana in Spanish) - the capital of Cuba, founded by Spaniards in 1519. The city is full of buildings in the colonial style of past centuries, especially the old part - Vezha. Havana Vezha and reinforce UNESCO recognized world heritage site. However, since Cuba - a very poor country, only a small part of the buildings was restored. Many of them are now in very poor condition and some almost fall apart. The business part of Havana because of financial embargo the United States in Havana do not go nearly cruise ships. On the other hand, there are also no crowds and the atmosphere is much calmer than in most port cities of the Caribbean Sea. «La paloma blanca» - white dove Attractions Old Town - not only what to see in Havana. In the area of ??Centro Gabbana reigns the spirit of modernity, but in the Vedado are great old hotels, which you can see the interior, even if you're not going to stop them. Dancers in "Cabaret National" We are surrounded by Cuban beauties in "Cabaret Nacional Cabaret Parisien in the Hotel Nacional - a stylish and rather expensive nightclub. Better see a cabaret show in the company of the inhabitants of Havana to a cabaret "National", which is on the streets of San Rafael. Black flags of the Revolution in Havana residents, like all Cubans are very happy to get acquainted with foreigners. Many of them can come and speak to you just out of curiosity. Of course, sellers of counterfeit cigars, and other interesting characters can easily be wormed through the crowd.

The fact that the Spanish colonizers did not come to pass, failed to make the last half century

Typical Cuban city GIBARA Gibara - a small town on the beach in the north-eastern part of Cuba. Its population is only 30,000 people. The city is very relaxed atmosphere prevails and the locals are extremely friendly and hospitable. Hotel is not there at all, you can find only a couple of places where you will be given a bed and breakfast. In Spanish it is called "Casa partikulyar" (private home). Evening Gibara fishing boats at sunset Gibara was an important port during the Spanish colonization. It is perfectly evident from the elegant architecture of the city. Unfortunately, many of these magnificent buildings is almost destroyed. Some do not even have a roof. Local residents are at ease manufacture of cigars - an important part of the industry Gibary This little pig gets on the table in the New Year's Eve Gibara - is the perfect place to unwind from the stress and bustle. Here you can just drink a bottle (and not just one!) Of beer with the locals and enjoy interesting conversation, or go to the sea. On the beach there are no umbrellas or sun beds, so do not forget to bring a towel, panamki and other beach accessories. Horse drawn carriage - the standard means of transportation to outlying Gibary The easiest way to get to Gibary - taxi service to transport or hire private traders in the province of Holguin. We paid 15 pesos per 45-minute trip to the Lada, which has been and the best of times. Twenty years ago. The old roof is no graffiti and even an older machine think Fidel written on the walls of all houses in any city in Cuba Imbued with the wisdom of wall images of Che Guevara is not inferior to the popularity of the Statue of aphorisms Fidel Camilo Senfuegos - the third in the list of the most significant revolutionaries These carved items, no doubt, have a sense Beach Gibary Children splash in the Caribbean See also: Heart of a revolution in the Western Hemisphere Visiting Liberty Island - a serious test for the digestive system three days with pork, rum and salsa Cuban hotel realities - choose the private sector market illustrative example the Cuban province of Misty landscape of Cuban plantations Tobacco City happiest people on Liberty Island last place of the revolutionary battles in Cuba want to dance in a nightclub?

Notes from Chile, in September 2009

Mining town of Iquique: WATER - IT'S ALL Max Hartshorne, editor of "What time is it?" - Asked me if my companion, a barely perceptible yawning. We ended our dinner under the thatched roof in the restaurant "El Tercer Ojito" city of Iquique. This institution is also called "Third Eye". "Half of the first" - I replied. Sitting at our table the owner of facilities on behalf of Christine Bouchard said that it was at this time begins the evening concert. Christina sipped cabernet, and told me that this excellent restaurant with an open area got its name after she visited Kathmandu. Prior to that, there were showers, but now she's just focused on good cuisine, and thoughtful menu, which is not the last, took the grouper, vegetable lasagna with shrimp and quinoa. Quinoa - a kind of crops that they eat everything in the north of Chile. We flew here from the southern part of the country. Iquique - a mining town with a population of 200,000 people on the Pacific coast, near the Atacama Desert. Every tenth of a local resident working in a giant copper, salt and other mines. The men watch lasts ten consecutive days, after which they can for four days rest. Since there is high unemployment, the number of jobs transferred from father to son. Fishing boats in the harbor of Iquique The annual rainfall is about two millimeters, so that such restaurants as El Tercer Ojito do not need this capital roofs. "The local rain - it's just a trifle," says Christina.

Cuban hotel realities - choose the private sector market

Voyage Manchester gentleman Ukrainian cities - part 5

AGAIN (former) Soviet Union (continued, part 5) We went to the apartment where we met the father of Victoria, with whom I shook hands, while I felt a strong smell of fish, which came from his hands. The apartment was not cleaned, the kitchen sink was full of unwashed dishes, which were collected here, apparently, the whole week. Due to dirt on the cloth was difficult to determine its original color, and as for the toilet, everything was the same deplorable level, and the nose hit the strong smell of urine. In my travels in Eastern Europe, I often had seen running toilets in bus and a toilet in Kharkov apartment does not fall out of some of these dubious sites. Best football team Kharkov While Marina was in the kitchen, chatting with the owners, I sat on the sofa, his head in his hands. I was covered in street dust and sweat, weariness prevailed. Marina came into the room and told me quite naturally the news is that there is no hot water. Back when I started to use this site Club hospitality ", it became clear that there could be surprises and disappointments. Now, my assumptions were true, but I'm not really upset, life is life. But in previous times, when we were placed by the Club hospitality "in Lviv, we've got fantastic apartment. Victoria started to leave for work, and we agreed to meet later in the city. Marina was very upset by the lack of hot water, but still took a cold shower. I said to Marina: "When you can not change the situation, try to change her attitude." Rain we marched through the streets of Sumy, it is historically the most important street in Kharkov.

Diamond in the Arab world

Voyage Manchester gentleman Ukrainian cities - part 7

AGAIN (former) Soviet Union (continued, p.7) Not one step back! The next day at six in the morning we boarded a taxi and headed to the bus station. A few minutes later, I asked Marina if she took the sandwich from the fridge, and received a negative response. "We return them?" - I suggested. "No way!" - The answer, and I agreed with her, because I wanted as far as possible away from the "friendly" apartments. Hotel "Kiev" is clearly preferable to the "option number one," I always liked to travel by car through the city early in the morning, when there reigns calm, yet nowhere is there transport and can not be heard screaming horns. In light of the rising sun Kharkiv did not look so bleak as yesterday, and yet I was very pleased that we were going to Dnepropetrovsk. Savings - the enemy of comfort five hours bus ride was not very tiring, but due to the fact that the bus had no toilet, we had to stop every hour or even more frequently. Toilets in bus stations in small towns in Eastern Europe is always in a terrible state, stink piss and shit, and in most cases about any plumbing devices, and speech is not just a hole in the floor. In order to take advantage of such "service" should be very, very quickly go in, being there - do not breathe, and just as quickly leave. View from our balcony in Dnepropetrovsk, we had a choice of three housing options. First - Natalia, whom I met at all the same site as the Club of hospitality ", she lived not far from downtown.

Discouraged by Japanese traditions, but full of impressions - part 1

AMAZING Aerochute Laurent Beaune, teacher flight was quite successful, and we landed at the international Tokyo's Narita airport. It was 9:00 pm. Our friend Ben told us how to find a limousine bus to Minato-ku (one of 23 special districts of Tokyo, ca. Perevi.). His teachings have fallen by the way, as near the airport was a lot of different buses! Our first impression of the Land of the Rising Sun: employee bus station carefully looked at the clock exactly on time (to the nearest second) sent a bus. In this case, before leaving, he exchanged a series of nods to the driver through the open door. After a solemn ceremony, our bus is not less solemnly went to Tokyo, making his way through the thick ranks of skyscrapers. Youth in Yoyogi Park, Ben warmly welcomed us on Japanese soil, and we all went to the bar to drink a few cocktails with sake. We are fortunate that Ben is quite fluent in Japanese. Another glass of beer in another bar, and I struck up a conversation with some guy who clearly was the representative of Yakuza in this quarter (Yakuza - an underground semi-criminal community, common in Japan and elsewhere abroad. The Western press often calls yakuza "Japanese mafia", approx. Perevi.). Not bad for a start! Dancing in the park after a good sleep (thanks to Ben for his hospitality and accommodation!) The next morning we went to Yoyogi Park to look at how the Japanese have a rest, or rather the extreme youth get-together girls ready near Harajuku station. We have witnessed the dance style rockabilly (only for members of parties, as we recalled ominously), rehearsing the orchestra of 5 people and a photo session with "widely known in narrow circles" characters.

Voyage Manchester gentleman Ukrainian cities - part 8

AGAIN (former) Soviet Union (continued, ch.8) Do not read suspicious guides for the night after arriving at the Dnipropetrovsk bus station, we just for fun, spent about 20 minutes to find the hotel that we were advised the authors of the guidebook. Alas, it was closed. Moreover, this "hotel" does not even have its own building, its facilities were located on the upper floors of the bus station. I looked into several windows that were not closed curtains, there was a condition called "lack of finishing." I thought to myself: "Thank you, Mr. Brandt, you fucking bastard!" The tram we arrived in the city center and then walked to the hotel "Kiev". Our room was on the 11 th floor, with balconies have a fantastic view of the Dnipro River and the bridges across it. My first occupation in the room was a long soak in the bath, which was clearly designed for dwarf. After washing, we have a little rest, and feeling hungry, and headed to the restaurant, which was located in front of our hotel. Symbol of eternal devotion We quickly ate a bowl of kasha, and then decided to walk along the promenade around the sun was shining and everything was good in this world. I was filled with optimism, especially after yesterday's rawness in Kharkov. Monastic Island The first item in the plan view the attractions was listed Monastic Island. This is the most interesting places to visit in Dnepropetrovsk, in the Middle Ages Byzantine monastery founded by monks. When we climbed the stairs that led to the footbridge that connects the "mainland" with the island, I noticed that the railing is full of padlocks.

Through the whole of Spain on foot - part 5

THE WAY OF ST JAMES: THE ROAD AS A TEST OF THE SOUL AND BODY (continued, part 5) Across the street is a bar "Rose" in which pleasant to miss a couple of cups. But, thanks to the excellent types of windows, the primacy of keeping private shelter on Mirador "in Portomarin. From the windows of the bar overlook the river, in addition, there has its own micro-brewery! We especially liked the evening when the restaurant was packed to rejection by local residents who came to watch a football match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. We liked the atmosphere because there is absolutely all - young and old - just crazy about football. We still remember the hotel in town Fonsebaddon (not far from the ridge Montes de Leon). Previously, there was an abandoned village, which is found only wild dog, and now there are several hotels and interesting atmosphere. Some kind of mystique attached to our stay there a thick fog, which did not disappear all the time, when we were there. Also, instead of the dogs there were so many cats that it might seem that they are in these places - the main inhabitants. Hotel manager tried to cure Zoey the technique of Reiki. (Reiki - one of the methods of spiritual healing, developed by Japanese Buddhist Mika Ussui. With the help of representatives of alternative medicine treat patients transferred by hand "energy." Ed.) In addition, he has not neglected and spiritualism, causing the usual medieval Scottish hero William Wallace and the central character of masterpieces of Dumas's D'Artagnan.

Through the whole of Spain on foot - Part 6

THE WAY OF ST JAMES: THE ROAD AS A TEST OF THE SOUL AND BODY (continued, Part 6) The path is very simple to someone to make friends and have a meal together, and then it may very well be that the next time you stay with your new friends in the same hotel. We learned about the different people and carried with them a few days, then our paths diverged, often only to again come together in a few days or a week. We met some interesting people who have had a lot more cruising experience than us. One girl was from the town of Assisi in central Italy, while others came from the French town of Le Puy-en-Velay, we even met a man, a route that begins in Cologne, Germany. We also crossed with some students, cyclists, which were sent from the English city of Bristol in Marrakech (Morocco). Many of the fair sex were alone in the mistaken belief that women commit self-pilgrimage safely. And we liked to go together. I think if a person goes on a journey alone, he has to do is some reason in the end, it's personal choice. Difficulties no doubt, the biggest problem for us during the pilgrimage were corn. When first getting wet to the skin, then slowly dries, you can be sure that the huge corn you provided. Locals know about this, and in every town on the entire route there are several pharmacies in which you can always buy from corn plasters. The purchase of these patches took a lot of money! However, several times in the morning, it was difficult to even pull the shoes on his swollen feet pasted corn plasters.

A reminder of bygone power of Persia

Persepolis - the ruins of former capital of Persia Persepolis - a wonderful creation of Persian culture. This unique city was built on the plain of Marvdasht the foot of Mount Mercy. Persepolis is situated on the territory of modern Iran, at a distance of 70 km from the city of Shiraz and 644 km from Tehran. In 1979, the ruins of the former imperial capital of the Persians are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Columns of the ancient temple of the Palace at Persepolis was built about 518 BC. er. King Darius the Great. The city was about 50 km south of the capital of Persian King Cyrus the Great, the city of Pasargadae. Darius I ordered to build a palace made of dark gray marble, mining is conducted in the nearby mountains. Architecture of the buildings date back to the traditions of the construction of buildings in Mesopotamia. Here are the ruins of the largest palace mentioned in the Bible. Bas-relief depicting the war as the new capital, Persepolis was to surpass all previous capital cities of antiquity. For over 150 years it was the most magnificent palace in the world. Babylon, Susa and Ecbatana were the centers of other nations and, therefore, Darius decided to build a typical Persian capital. Persepolis was an example of Persian art and architecture, as well as a center of cultural life. Located in the heart of the Persian dominions, and surrounded by vast deserts, the city was the safest place to store treasures, which for over 200 years were brought to Persia.

Voyage Manchester gentleman Ukrainian cities - part 4

AGAIN (former) Soviet Union (continued, part 4) had to wait a while, but we managed to play a game called "Come on guess who from others - Victoria. The game was quite difficult, because the platform were many young and beautiful girls. Marina approach to some of them, but our landlady has not found. And only when I took off his baseball hat, our Victoria has managed us to identify at my bald head, which she saw on the site. "The interior" of our room Kharkov - is the second largest city in Ukraine, with a population of around two million people, when you come into a crowded subway, it seems that these two million are here together. Hence, what some 20 miles to the border with Russia. Yet this town is notable for the fact that here was born and grew famous writer Vital Vitale. Television viewers of the older generation can remember him when he worked as Moscow correspondent for the popular television show, Clive James, the program was aired in the evening on Saturdays. We did not linger on the platform, and Victoria took us through the underground passage in the subway. Netherworld of concrete We rode the subway two stops, moved to another line and got to the subway "Student", where captives to the taxi called "taxi". So in Eastern Europe called the small private buses that describe labirintopodobnye path through the city streets. Salon filled with people very quickly, basically has to go standing up, and if you will be careless enough to sit in the back row, then in order to arrive at their bus stop, you have to fly through the air, another option would not be.

A trip to the wounded city - part 1

A FEW HOURS IN SARAJEVO Graham and Gretchen, New Zealand Perhaps we are the only guests at this hotel with 19 rooms, because the parking is only our "Range Rover". Last night we did not even know we worry or not about the security guard with a big German shepherd dog, who was sitting in a cargo container between our hotel and the road. He probably even slept there. The hotel building stands apart, and it fits just 3-4 unfinished house. While, on the other hand, the website of our hotel it was written that "your parked car is kept safe." Welcome to Sarajevo! We did not build illusions about breakfast, which were required to submit to us in the hotel. Descending the stairs into the dining room, we even joked that if the feel the smell of fried eggs and bacon. When we entered the dining room, they saw two women who sat and smoked. But had only rugged men say something to them in their language, they immediately disappeared in the kitchen. Eggs and bacon did not smell. In fact, even a table with food in this vast room was nowhere in sight. A stocky man brought two glasses of hot tea, and four bags of sugar. Tea exuded a strange smell, but maybe the sugar will give it flavor, even remotely tea. Although, who knows? Somehow we doubted whether we should drink this stuff, or you can ask for coffee, but finally decided to risk it, because we thought that to convey our request will be very difficult. In addition, the coffee did not smell too. We sat overlooking the great room, which could accommodate hundreds of guests (probably in here and spend all sorts of meetings that have been written on the website of the hotel), when suddenly - the kitchen door swung open and the hall became one of the women we have seen, when they came here.

Dasht-e-Kavir, Iran: Freedom Day in the desert

Madagascar - an island reserve chameleons and lemurs - part 2

In Search of Lemuria, and frogs (continued, p.2) On our way to the entrance to the reserve Analamazaotra we met korotkorogogo chameleon. I considered it a good sign. My guide Donna The day passed with mixed success. In the first 1.5 hours we did not see anything interesting, except for the orchids and several perturbed frogs. It was overcast, and even in those rare moments when the sun peeped from behind the clouds, it almost does not penetrate through the forest canopy. It was pretty cool, but the camera had to adjust to the light sensitivity of ISO 200 or even less. Palm trunk Fortunately, we soon saw Indra. Any analogy with the kids and costumes panda - just an insult to these powerful creatures, which are quite deftly jump from tree to tree, stopping only to quietly chew on a few leaves. They have no tails, but they still look very nice. One of them decided it was time to sing when I was 6 meters below it. The sound was simply stunning. Indra "sings" right over us Donna told me that Indra practically live in captivity, because they have a very diverse diet (also fully understood by humans), so it is very difficult to make, from what indriyas begin to starve and die. Still, he said that their name is translated from Malagasy means "there it is." Local legend says that once indriyas rescued the child from the attack of the bees, so now indriyas are protected by the "fade" (a taboo, an unofficial ban on the infliction of any harm, prim.perev.) Indra on the tree main trails in the reserve are in a much better condition than in Ranomafane (National Park in southeastern Madagascar, prim.perev.), but Donna prefer trips over rough terrain, so I quickly gathered on his head enough web to forget about his bald head .

The ruins of Hampi, injustice and thick beggars - Part 1

Grand Hamp and interesting people Zane Hopper, a photographer I went to the Andaman Islands and spent two hours at 5,650 rupees a local flight airline Kingfisher Air "reached the city of Chennai (until 1996 known as Madras, prim.perev.) . After 3 days I had to return by sea, but I wanted to leave the island quickly (after I spent a whole month) to begin the land portion of my trip to the mainland. At this time in Chennai, I stayed in the shelter of the Salvation Army. When I was in Mumbai, I stayed in the same orphanage, which is located in an area Kolaba, a famous place for all travelers. In Chennai, I was literally the only guest of the shelter, so dorm was given to me alone. I was a little uneasy: the building of the orphanage was pretty big and looked like an old hospital, like most buildings in Chennai, built during the British colonization. I am sure that the ghosts were there too ... However, this housing for 100 rupees (1.4 pound), why not? Although everything was in order, the next day I had to leave this place because of the invasion of mosquitoes. I do not want to take anti-malarial drugs, so I had to constantly keep in mind that the mosquitoes have not jammed too. Virupaksha Temple Prior to his departure for the Andaman Islands I spent a few days in Chennai, during which time to explore local attractions. So linger for a long time I did not want. After spending several hours on the internet trying to buy a train ticket to the village of Hampi, which is located in the north of Karnataka, I realized that nothing I have not come out.

Exotic ancient tribe of Aborigines under the blows of civilization and the rebels - part 5

VENEZUELA: Adventures in Amazonia (the ending, p.5) each night spent in a hammock, was surprising and exciting. Every night we moored on a wild beach, trying to take away from the bongo major river passes. And every night we raised her eyes to heaven, looking at the Milky Way and millions of stars that can not be seen in the civilized world. But here, deep in the Amazon region, where the air is clean, the constellation shine in such a way that almost blinds the sight. And while we looked at the sky, we could hear the river dolphins come to the surface to gulp air. The realization that we are on this river, along with so many dolphins, we were very inspiring. We even did not know how many dolphins inhabit these rivers. Aborigines believe the animal is sacred, and very honored him. A girl from a village school in Yanomami Finally, after we visited a few tribes, we have achieved the ultimate goal of our trip, San Carlos de Rio Negro. On the one hand, I was very sad to leave here, but on the other hand, I was all covered with traces of mosquito bites, and I was constantly attacked by ants, whose attacks resembled an injection needle. Every day I slept in a hammock, and my knees have stopped it stands, I did not use a normal toilet for twelve days, and exactly the same time, I was alien to the simple human joy to take a shower, so the prospect of returning to civilization, I was very pleased. Cerro out the last two hours of our journey was just incredible. We flew on a small plane, covering the same distance, which until then were on the boat.

The ruins of Hampi, injustice and thick beggars - Part 3

Grand Hamp and interesting people (continued, part 3) arrived in Hampi that same evening, I quickly found a comfortable small hotel, which was located on the banks of the river Tangabhadra. March is here the beginning of low season, so he had time to do a lot of cases. I chose this hotel because the owner told me that first night, I can sleep for free on the roof of the restaurant, and then he will hand me a room with bathroom, balcony and good view of just over 200 rupees (? 3) per day. The only thing I had to do before you get on the roof is put online to night, annoying the monkey did not bother me fumble through my bag in search of food. Royal bath the next day I got up early, opened gifts, greeting cards read (it was my birthday) and went to "raid". I felt that I wanted to spend some time alone, as the last four months of my wanderings around me always someone there was, though to be alone in a country with a population of 1.1 billion people was not easy. In general, I went a little wander around the sprawling desert and look at the ruins of Hampi. I first saw the Virupaksha temple, which was dedicated to Shiva ... as 90% of all temples in India. Then I climbed the hill Hemakuta, where he found more ruins and the famous Temple of Ganesha carved in a monolithic rock, which is considered one of the largest in the world. After that I went on a Royal Center, which houses most of the attractions of Hampi. There are garden harem of the Sultan, the palace of Lotus Mahal, Virupaksha underground temple, a shelter for elephants and royal baths.

Island with elephant named, at which there is no elephant

Refuge from the hustle Megacities - Elephant Island Samuel Laub During a visit to the irregularly enlarged, clogged metropolis of Mumbai does not need much time to have desired peace and quiet. In this case, without loss of time to get to the famous monument "India Gate, which is very similar to normal for Europe Arc de Triomphe. Nearby is the pier, where for 45 minutes to reach the small island of Elephanta. (Proper name given in the nominative case, approx. Perevi.) Relatively short (approximately 45 minutes) with a boat tour allows you to get long-awaited peace, and in addition explore the most interesting historical sites. This island, surrounded by numerous oil vessels surprisingly retained its natural and spiritual wealth. It is extremely important to remember that the best way to hit the road to the island as early as possible in the 9-00 or 9-30 (the time of departure of first and second boats) to the crowds did not prevent you to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural attractions. This legless demon looks a little annoyed when you first visit the island very quickly realize that there is no living elephants, nor of their articles (elepant - the elephant in English, prim.perev.). Of course, that there is a fair question: why is the name of the island? The fact is that, when Portuguese sailors landed on the shore, the first thing they saw - a gigantic figure of an elephant, carved from a single piece of rock. The statue has since spoiled pretty bad weather and erosion, but it was restored and is now kept in the museum of Prince Albert in the city of Mumbai.

A country where two calendars and two ways of calculating time - part 1

MADNESS ON FARANDZHI Matthew Kuriger and Birgit Blekloz, United Kingdom A trip from the Sudanese border to the city Gadaref Gallabata was fascinating. Our minibus was falling apart. Twice we had to push him to start the engine, and sliding door had come off. Instead of driving on paved roads, we decided to "cut" a path through some villages. It was very interesting to see how the Sudanese live in rural areas, to see their markets, stalls, which sell tea and clothing, and children in school under the open sky. As we thought in the Sudan have all been very friendly to us. Cold beer Once we got to Gallabata, we were approached by the conductor, whom we, by the way, do not hire, and helped us with the formalities associated with the border-crosser. More on the Sudanese side of the four times we had to go through customs procedures, each time a new earthen hovels, all of which, however, were on the main street. In the first house, as in the second, we just had to write their names, then we present a passport, and we put a note on the departure from Sudan, and in the last house to check our luggage and were released to the world. They took me into another hut, where I was able to change the Sudanese pounds to the Ethiopian birr. Everything was a bit suspicious, and I worried that I might be robbed, but nothing has happened, and nobody I even paid no attention. Then we went to the Ethiopian immigration department, which was placed in a clay hut, surrounded by barbed wire. There was already less bureaucracy, we just put a stamp in the passport, although it took quite a long time - before you put a stamp, the officer was searching for our names in a book.

Madagascar - an island reserve chameleons and lemurs - Part 1

In Search of Lemuria and frogs, John McCabe, a marketing expert taxi rattled through the cobbled streets of Antananarivo (the capital of Madagascar, prim.perev.) towards the eastern station, taxi-board (private cars, most pickups, used in some countries in Africa as a long-distance taxis, prim.perev).. This will be my penultimate trip by taxi-bar during my stay and, in theory, it should not be bad. Unfortunately, the hotel I was given the wrong information, so that the problems I've had enough. Mysterious plant I was expecting a trip that was supposed to take about 2.5 hours, so that 5000 ariary (currency Madagascar prim.perev.) completely should be enough that Administrators have confirmed several hotels. I have offered to go over 17,000 ariary, the price was too high so that under it clearly meant something, but the desire to make money. I asked a few more offices, where they sold tickets for the taxi-rail, but everywhere I answered the same. I do not quite understand what I tried to explain at the same time, since these explanations are in French but some English-speaking guy helped me. It turned out that the city of Andasibe a taxi-rail route does not end they all go to the town of Tamatave. And as I take a seat passenger, who could go in Tamatave, they wanted to pay a ticket to the final stop. Frankly, it sounds crazy because they surely someone will pick up when I I will go down, but that's internal rules. In the end, I make a deal for 12 thousand ariary, wondering to myself why no guide or hotel staff did not know about it.

Desert city, a city in the sea of ??joy - Part 3

Madagascar - an island reserve chameleons and lemurs - Part 3

In Search of Lemuria, and frogs (continued, part 3) Another state nature reserve in a pair of Andasibe National Park is Mantadiya. It comes not so many tourists because of its remoteness (more than an hour ride on a broken road, which does not go to public transport) and less constructed nature. We Donna tried to find other tourists who would want to enter with us in the share of payment for travel by car, but everyone with whom we spoke to, or have already booked his tour, or do not want to go to Matadi. I decided to still go there. Right, not every day I come to Madagascar. Sleep chameleon While driving through a bumpy road in Mantadiyu Donna showed me a guide to the chameleon, proudly pointing to his name in the list of authors. We drove past the hotel "Wacona Forest Lodge, the most luxurious in the area, drawing attention to the" Island of Lemurs "where tourists are fed up a couple of cats lemur maki. (The island of lemurs - small reserved area bounded by a moat, which contain the wounded or sick of lemurs, as well as some other animals, prim.perev.) Donna muttered darkly that the poppies are not very good, and that many of them, apparently will die due to the fact that the attempted improper food. Golden lemur In the beginning we met two Englishmen, bird lovers, who, surprisingly, were my neighbors in the hotel, but they were the only people we met in the park Mantadiya. The main trails here were in the same condition as the side tracks in the park Analamazaotra, and secondary would not prevent prorubka with a machete.

Among giant rats, caimans and piranhas - Part 6

Three unforgettable days on the river in South America (the ending, Part 6) Upon return to the village, I took a shower. Stood there for about an hour to wash off any river debris. Then we had dinner and went to look for caiman at night. We were near a group of 20 caimans, which rested on the court for no more than 5-10 meters. At night, the eyes of caimans are bright yellow, white and pink. This is a stunner! We got to a distance of less than two meters to a group of fearsome predators, and stopped in fear of a 10-meter individual. After that, we saw two or three caimans, and plenty to enjoy the spectacle, returned to the village. Eye caimans at night after two stunning early days, the third usually never fails. It just happened. We went to look for anacondas, which, as said the conductor, not often seen in this time of year, and we did not find any. The mood at first was not bad, but it was terribly hot, and, in confirmation of my observation, after two successful days, we failed, we were very disappointed. Another yellow monkey in all, I must say that meeting with those animals and birds, which I managed to see or even talk, was the highlight of my life. I hope that I would ever return to South America, and if I will be able to come back into these places! Start material:

Non-Chinese city with Chinese influence

Hanoi - the capital of Vietnam Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and its population of 4 million people. This is a pretty big city and high rise buildings are scarce. Here the mild climate, the exhaust gases and noise does not disturb your peace. Hanoi, in our opinion, one of the last cities where you can still feel the old traditional atmosphere of a large city south-east Asia. A street vendor in the old town Perhaps the most interesting part of Hanoi - the old town. It is felt everywhere Chinese influence: narrow streets, numerous shops, merchants hawking and pedicabs. Most travelers stay in one of the small inexpensive hotels in the area. For 7 dollars you can rent good room with bath. Sword Lake (The Hoan Kiem Lake) is located very near the old town, and on its embankments atmosphere of tranquility. In the evenings and at weekends the locals gather here to take a walk, play board games or just meet up with friends and relatives. Sword Lake Places worth a visit in Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Marionette Theater. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Uncle Ho and we welcome the tenth great congress! Hanoi - a paradise for those who collect exotic objects. Here you can buy women's conical hat and silk clothing, especially popular national Vietnamese dresses called Ao Dai. Street vendors sell lighters "Zippo", watches and other trifles, presumably left there by American soldiers. Of course, most of these items - some simple forgery. Of course, here you can also buy a lot of authentic and wonderful items of manual labor.

Country Lord of the Rings - Part 2

The ruins of Hampi, injustice and thick beggars - Part 6

Grand Hamp and interesting people (continued, Part 6) Ibid, at Hampi, I met with Frank from Denmark, my neighbor in the hotel. I should mention it because it was a very unusual man. When you travel alone, always meet some interesting people. In general, Frank 48 years, and the last 8.5 years he spent in prison himself in Denmark for four armed robberies. Previously he was a drug addict and "sitting" on heroin, he now has nothing to accept. At least he said so to me, although I thought he was "stoned", every time I talked to him. He needed money to dose, so he went on a robbery. While he was in prison, his mother (also a drug addict) visited him and brought him marijuana, hiding it in certain organs, and passed it to him under the table during meetings. Frank was hiding drugs in his body and sold it dose to other prisoners. Then he gave the money to mothers in the same manner as received marijuana. He said that the price of drugs in prison was much higher than that at which the grass can be bought on the street, and that his mother needed money to secure old age. Unfortunately, old age, so to her and did not come, and she died on the streets of a heroin overdose. And a friend of Frank, which also was a prostitute, was strangled by one of her clients because she was trying to steal his wallet when he fell asleep. Poor fellow. He said that he told me his story, because I showed him a good guy, and he had to lose this gem of the soul before he dies. I'm not religious, but God bless his sinful soul.

Hiking on the Afghan Pamir - Part 7

AFGHANISTAN: from love to hate ... TWO WEEKS OF MOUNTAIN TRANSITION (continued, p.7) After eating as much bread, which has remained quite small, the five of us went up the hill towards the pass Akbilis. Glory to God, to overcome the pass proved to be difficult. A small slope that brought us to a long smooth pass, which is more like a valley. On both sides it is surrounded by steep cliffs on the slopes where the snow seemed to have started just a few yards up from us. From time to time we come across streams flowing down from the heights, water, of which we have replenished their stocks. Excavated burrows of marmots were talking about the presence here of a large and powerful predator. - Bear? - I asked Said, pointing to one of the holes. He looked at me blankly and questioning. - Very high - I said, raising his hands and bent his fingers like legs with claws, and mouth wide open, so in my face there was an evil grimace. - Ah, yes, - he said, pointing at the hole. - Bear. A couple of hours we made a halt at a small lake. Poor old Wadud, as soon as we stopped, again fell to the ground and clasped his head with his hands. "Not good" - he said in the Wakhan, pointing to his eyebrow. Time to rest, we were not, dusk. And a few minutes later we were back on the road. When we reached the other side of the pass, traders from Badakhshan goodbye to me and Said. I was sad to see how they go. Over the past few days I got used to them. They tried very hard to overcome the language barrier, we managed to build some relationships more quickly than in the circumstances could be expected.

Hiking on the Afghan Pamir - Part 6

AFGHANISTAN: from love to hate ... TWO WEEKS OF MOUNTAIN TRANSITION (continued, Part 6) Shortly after our arrival in the village, where besides us and the merchants there was nobody on the street was too cold, so we moved in together one of the houses. Traders had kindled a fire and began cooking. They refused food, which I offered to them. Only took a small packet of masala (spice mix, approx. Perevi.), Which added to the onion soup with noodles. After the soup Wadud began to cook rice with butter, salt and raisins, and Danuk silently sprawled across the room. Strange, but no Wadud, nor his companions that evening did not pray. I went to sleep, after eating so much as not to load during this campaign, either before or after. Wadud and its product the next day we had breakfast crumbled biscuits and salted tea. Then lay down their belongings and carried them into the street. I stumbled out of the new attack of vertigo. Head does not hurt, but the feeling was not pleasant. Just my condition was far from that, which usually can be walked through the pass six o'clock in the Afghan Pamirs. "You okay?" - Asked me Wadud in the Wakhan. I gestured that I was very dizzy. He immediately took out some papers, and opened them and gave me two handfuls of pills, showing that a handful were for those moments when I started to choke, and another - a headache. I tried to offer him money because he knew that he came to the Pamirs specifically to sell their wares, but he did not want to hear anything, and his friends supported his decision.

The ruins of Hampi, injustice and thick beggars - Part 4

Grand Hamp and interesting people (continued, part 4) I spent several hours wandering here and there, but in the end, still found a way. According to her, I went through the banana plantation and some of the field, and then I had to cross a river ford. By the time I was terribly thirsty. There I met children who were bathing in a river. They decided to show me another abandoned temple. I said I wanted to drink and I do not know where to go, but they persuaded me to go to church with them, then they will show me the way back to the village of Hampi. We began to climb another mountain ... but the children keep pace with me, asking me to photograph them while they indulged in, showing off their muscles, in the end we still got to the top of the hill Matangi. All the efforts paid off: the temple on the hill was completely abandoned. There have been quite scary. Located around a small altar of Hanuman (monkey god), came out of the caves in the rock. To be honest, I was not myself, because there were more and bats that flew everywhere and the food inside the temple. Then again we went down to the foot of the mountain, and the kids showed me the way to Hampi. When I returned home, the thirst has reached an unimaginable limit, and I had to drink two liters of water for 60 seconds. Then I took a shower and went to bed ... forces at a special dinner I had just left. In general, the day I walked about 20 km. But it was a terrific day ... and birthday, which I will remember for a long time.

Discouraged by Japanese traditions, but full of impressions - part 2

AMAZING Aerochute (continued, p.2) The next day, our faithful taxi company "MK Taxi took us to the Shin-Kobe Shinkansen train station where we decided to go to the city of Himeji. Upon arrival, we left the station and walked along the boulevard in the direction of the oldest and most well-preserved medieval castle in Japan. We saw a green hill on which the white castle. It has become abundantly clear why the castle was nicknamed "White Heron". It's really a magical place: its wooden construction with a beautiful slate tiles create a sense of eternity. Main Tower - an impressive wooden structure with supporting beams and adjoined by several floors, each of which follow less than the previous. You can climb up the steep wooden stairs. From the roof of the tower offers stunning views of the surrounding of the countryside. Then we visited the Garden Koko-en at the foot of the castle: pine, bamboo, in a small pond next to a traditional tea house floated huge carp - all just wonderful. True, we did not manage to eat dumplings taco (with octopus), one of the main dishes of Himeji. Perhaps it was too late. We boarded the train back to Kobe and just walk around the city in the harbor, on the road even a little astray. A nice Japanese businessman took us back to where he came 10 minutes ago, and all to show us the way to our apartment - very nice of him! Himeji Castle returned to the apartment and Yui Yuki, we tasted the delicious cabbage fritters, and then we were invited to take a bath.

Hiking on the Afghan Pamir - Part 9

AFGHANISTAN: from love to hate ... TWO WEEKS OF MOUNTAIN TRANSITION (continued, Part 9) When we went down the other side of the pass, juicy tender piece of meat, which captures all of my imagination in the last few hours, eliminating almost all other thoughts miraculously materialized in real life. We were about three hours from the night. I walked fast and did not even think about the rest, keeping the pace. I managed to completely ignore the thoughts of fatigue and an empty stomach. I just wanted to quickly get to the final point in our transition. We passed a caravan of donkeys and horses, which was headed in the opposite direction with a large flock of sheep. He walked a little higher on the slope, so we just waved in greeting. A minute later, one of the traders ran up to us. - Hey! - Okriknul it takes us. I turned around, not slowed down, and saw in his hand a big cut. - Drugs! Drugs! Do you have any drugs? - He shouted in the Wakhan. At first I shook my head and continued to walk, just wanting as soon as possible to get there, where it is warm and satisfying. However, almost immediately I realized that I could not deceive the person to whom I could help. If he was going to Kyrgyz camp, it may take a few weeks before he gets there, where there will be drugs. I stopped, nodded at him and cried Said, that he stopped. Said is back, unloaded the donkey and pulled out a first aid kit. Village Varma I washed the wound disinfected and delivered a healing glue, then stuck the plaster and bandaged hand. - Thank you!

Voyage Manchester gentleman Ukrainian cities - part 10

AGAIN (former) Soviet Union (continued, ch.10), "Let's go there, you can take a taxi" - "I said. But Marina has refused, citing fatigue and a desire to quickly get to the hotel. She even offered me to go there alone. After a 20-minute pleas and entreaties she still agreed to join me. We paid the bill, came up with the restaurant and took a taxi. Complex "Bartholomew" was really an amazing place, besides the large number of visitors, according to my will accept, inspired hope for a good course of the evening. Here we are faced with only one serious problem, how to choose a restaurant from a variety of options. I decided to sit in "Revolutionary Restaurant & Bar, which was located high on a hill. View of the city and the Dnieper from here was fantastic. I drank a couple beers, then a little vodka, and Marina drank Coca-Cola. " Drunkenness - Shaped disgusting! We have started a stupid argument about the Second World War. I said that England won the war alone, and Marina insisted that the main contribution to the victory over the Nazis brought Russia. After 20 minutes of this stupid conversation I felt dizzy and started vomiting. Fortunately, the toilet was not far away, I vomited, I felt awful. I had to sit on the toilet for some time to try to recover. When I returned, I saw that Marina captivity for another table, not very far from that at which we were seated first. At the same time she took it all with our drinks and appliances. I no longer feel sick, but I could not figure out what the cause of this her act.

Country Lord of the Rings - Part 1

Who wants to learn the original methods of fraud and haggling - perhaps in Istanbul - Part 1

MARKET, MOSQUE, HOME AND BATH ... Adam, USA We drove across Bulgaria and made it to Turkey. Around midnight, we stopped at the border post at the border. All got off the bus and proceeded to passport control. Then the passengers took their luggage and the bus was empty. We put their bags on the table and opened them. Border guards passed along the table and searched luggage. It is unlikely that they did so on the basis of race ... While some border guards checked our luggage, while others took up the bus. Once verification is over, we were allowed to bring bags to the place to catch the bus and continue your journey to Istanbul. We arrived at the University of Istanbul at 3:30 am. The city seemed dark and empty. We were given little food and were carried out in a small booth where they sold the tickets, where we had to spend the rest of the night. By booth rolled a heavy aluminum door, so we felt safe. Lying on a few chairs, his head resting on his jacket, which served me a pillow, I almost immediately heard rising up from somewhere the call to prayer. In other words, someone singing through a loudspeaker, climbing on the minaret. Prayer could be heard for many blocks around. I understand that the call to prayer reminds Muslims that it is time to pray. For me it was yet another indication that I was in town so remote that half of it is in Asia. I'm in a country that shares borders with Iraq. I am ... very far from home. Mosque Hagia Sophia We woke up early in the morning and went to look for a hotel.

True Panama - real fount of tourist attractions

Nonfictional PANAMA: wildlife, beach and local tribes, Stephen Hartshorn, traveler When you choose to visit Panama, you will solve the problem of choosing where to start? Because the country is located in the heart of the continent, and at the same time it is washed once by two oceans, grow here and live so many species of plants and animals that can not be found in any other corner of the planet. And yet - every schoolboy knows that there is situated the well-known man-made wonder - the Panama Canal. Miraflores Locks on the Panama Canal is very attractive in the Panama trip is an opportunity to visit the village of ancient peoples who for centuries lived in the U.S. alone with nature, long before the Europeans here. A traveler can see in Panama many new and interesting, even if he goes on a trip alone. However, given the fact that there is a myriad of opportunities for recreation and active pastime, it would be more reasonable to use the services of experienced guides who can take care of daily matters of organization and preparation. In addition, professionals every minute of his time thinking about that tourists are not wasted a single minute of my stay in this wonderful country. If you plan to visit Panama, a suitable tour operator for you to be a local company Vayazhes bark, which offer a wide selection of tours for families, couples and single travelers. The program includes a diving outfit in the "number one", ie in fins, mask and snorkeling, visit eco-park, tours of the Panama Canal and many other entertaining options for cognitive rest.

Costa Rica - a paradise for adventurers

NATURE OF COSTA RICA - and a bicycle, and rafting, and scuba Costa Rica is world renowned local friendly people and welcoming beaches. The perfect place to enjoy the beauty of the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean. However, apart from exotic drinks and sun-warmed sand, Costa Rica also offers many educational opportunities for travelers. This is especially important for family tourists who want to learn more about the features of the area of ??Costa Rica, its wildlife and agriculture. Center for Tropical Agriculture and Education of Costa Rica, Savgre Reserve and Marine National Park Ballena wellness tourism combined with educational programs. Education is the job of trips and travelers broaden the range of their knowledge about things such as conservation agriculture, ecotourism and economic development, which is crucial for the environment. Company Advenche Life of Missoula, Montana, offers many tours in Costa Rica and to take advantage of such educational programs by Touring, horseback riding, traveling on a raft down the river, and walks with professional guides. Center for Tropical Agriculture and Education Center CATIE Tropical Agriculture and Education of Costa Rica, known as CATIE, Turrialba is located. It's about two hours from the capital of Costa Rica, San Jose. History CATIE refers to May 1940, when a group of forward-looking people, including U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Henry Wallace, proposed the creation of an institution dedicated to tropical agriculture. To date, CATIE has become an international agricultural research centers, which constantly conducts research in the agricultural field and agrolesnichestve.

Tribal wars on bad roads - part 2

COUNTRY WHERE ran only thieves, and drink only the driver (the ending part 2) Waking up early in the morning, we met with relatives of Howard, and they showed us their village. The most interesting of these villages were the walls and deep trenches, which were among them. All this was built primarily for defensive purposes, and that the enemy could not see what is happening inside the village. I saw a wall height of three meters, but they were there, and five and even six-meter wall. In this village there were more people in traditional costumes, than in all other places that I visited. Several residents offered to conduct us to the main market. This market is about an hour's walk from the Taree and was very curious place. He is like and is located literally in the open field, but on the other hand, is full of people who sell all sorts of vegetables. I took a few pictures old men in national costumes. Most of all I liked the sweet potatoes cooked in Mumu. Mumu - this is such a wave of hot stones. First, lay down on the ground leaves, then a series of stones, warmed by a fire. They spread a variety of vegetables, sometimes meat. They, in turn, placed hot stones and leaves. All that is left for 5-6 hours, and eventually obtained a delicious dish! Another breakdown We caught ride to (it was a truck with wooden seats in the back) and went back to dinner at the Taree, but when the driver learned that his car was going Masta (the so-called whites in rural areas), he insisted that I rode in the cabin with him.

Parrots, underground lakes, manatees and ubiquitous carnival

BRAZIL: District bonito and the Pantanal, Carnival in El Salvador, we arrived in Bonito, after filled in the cash almost emptied our wallets in the city of Campo Grande, capital of Mato Grosso do Sul. Bonito are around lots of interesting corners of wildlife, but that is quite strange, here there is no organized transportation system, which could benefit travelers. Even if you book your trip at your local travel agent, you still have to use the services of taxi drivers. But mild upsets from overspending on transport finance article has been leveled as soon as the taxi took us to the cave of unprecedented beauty. In the depths of the cave, we watched with admiration for the magical fairy-tale picture. The blue underground lake flowed a river of crystal purity, and in the water swimming colored fish. For more emotions we experienced on his return, when they saw two toucans sitting on a tree branch near our hotel. Interesting things have occurred not only in the daytime, evenings, we also do not ever get bored. In our first evening at the hotel who was sitting near us brazilian girl suddenly decided to show us his photo album, where there was a lot of her pictures with friends. All anything, but only the majority of images portrayed these ladies put it mildly, in a drunken state. On the second evening in a pub called "Tabo" We tried the Brazilian spirits. I remember cocktail "Caipirinha", which I missed for two (and maybe three or four ...) wine glass. The waiter even took pictures of us.

Creativity of the ancient above the Arctic Circle

Prehistoric rock paintings IN THE VICINITY OF THE CITY Alta in Northern Norway, Finnmark, were discovered rock paintings. These unique ancient image can be seen near the town of Alta - the biggest city in this part of the country. Alta is located at 1280 kilometers north of the Norwegian capital Oslo, and the petroglyphs are located just five kilometers southwest of downtown. Prehistoric images painted on the inner walls of the Alta fjord. Since they have great historical value to mankind, they have brought in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Figure depicting the hunt itself a complex of rock art consists of a large number of drawings that were discovered in 1972, scientists believe that this historic find came here in the 4200-4500 BC According to experts of UNESCO, the drawings in Alta - the most important evidence that in areas of the Arctic Circle, a prehistoric people lived. These drawings are considered one of the most important historical discoveries Images found on rocks were deposited in four stages. The earliest of them date back to 4200 BC, the latest - 500 BC, although some researchers believe that the figures here have continued to appear up to 500 AD Uppermost (and oldest) figures are at a distance of 26 meters from the lowest. Overall, these rocks shows more than 5000 different shapes. Historical Reserve is located inside the rock. Here you can get some idea of ??how prehistoric people lived. By Viola has organized tours with 13 stops in the most interesting places for guests to consider in more detail drawings.

Hiking on the Afghan Pamir - Part 10

AFGHANISTAN: from love to hate ... TWO WEEKS OF MOUNTAIN TRANSITION (continued, ch.10), where I took a very good solution for all your travel. Realizing that the next day we waited a long way to Sarhad, that is 8-10-hour marathon of descents and ascents on the mountain slopes, I decided to open one of two packages of pasta, which I bought at Bishkek, and eat them together last stocks of tomato paste. - Today - pasta - I said to Said. - Nooo, neeeeet, bread, rice, sour, salty tea! - "He protested. - Bread, salted tea, yogurt, I am a very big problem - finally, I admitted. - I have no pasta, no Sarhad. This dialogue between us was repeated several times until Sayid did not understand that I will not give up, then he agreed to start a fire to cook pasta. We cooked the entire package, and my hunger was much stronger than my shame, I demonstrated all of its western selfishness, eating almost half. I ate until he got sick stomach just could not stop. Vahantsy never would imagine this is not allowed, well, if still it happened, it would be very ashamed. Maybe they looked down on me for this my behavior, or perhaps, Said explained my behavior because I was weaker than them, and I needed food. In any case, I reached a point where I do it already anyway, just to get to the Sarhad. Sang Navishta in good weather, dinner was not particularly tasty, but rich aroma after nearly two weeks stay on a diet of Afghan Pamir made me imagine what you felt the first Europeans discovered the chili pepper, nutmeg and other spices of the East Indies.

Hiking on the Afghan Pamir - Part 8

AFGHANISTAN: from love to hate ... TWO WEEKS OF MOUNTAIN TRANSITION (continued, ch.8) I barely drank one cup of tea. Despite the fact that this took some effort and time, I felt a wave of nausea. In the middle of the second cup, my stomach twisted, and I realized that I was about to be sick. Not getting out of a sleeping bag, I somehow managed to lap dobrel to the door, fell on his stomach and emptied the stomach in a black starless void. When it was over, I crawled back, lay down on his seat and fell asleep. I was awakened for supper, but I felt bad at the thought of eating, and I refused. The old man from Karchinda The next day I woke up with a migraine, which threatened to smash my head off. Wadud couple of tablets and several hours of continuous, strong tea, however, did their job, and I managed to put himself in a more usable state. By noon I was feeling well enough to eat a little bread and wander through Karchindu. The sun was shining, the sky was clear and the temperature quite bearable, given that I was ten layers of clothes. Two Kyrgyz women in red dresses beside yurts counted a huge flock of sheep. Their long white scarves held by a red cape on his head, which fluttered in the wind as they walked across the field. Men at this time lay next to a clay house and do nothing, being half asleep and did not even talking to each other. Tired, hungry, sick and frozen, that day I decided to turn back. Previously, I had planned to go for another three days before the end of Kyrgyz territory in the Small Pamir, then go back to the Sarhad, beating Big Pamir side.

For the first time in France - Part 4

THE FIRST TIME behind the Iron Curtain Part 4: And finally, the day came when we decided to do it. It is clear that every first arrived in Paris, not without a romantic man tries to climb the famous tower. The tower is especially good because the city itself, except for the district of La Defense flatly denied the high-rise buildings. At least we do not see anywhere else, except in the area, which will talk about later. We came to the tower from the Field of Mars, where there are six grass beds. These beds we have seen before, but only now realized their purpose. The fact that the same day near the tower held a concert opera, and the large audience took their seats in the accurate, as we approach the goal of our excursion. In those days we still had a rare "high rise" equipment, lighting and video camera for very long rod: We have long stood in line for admission tickets. When we use the elevator reached the first level of the tower, the concert has already started and we watched half of the Campo Marzio, filled with spectators. Here are some photos from the first level. In addition to the picturesque Seine we saw with interest the roofs of the houses, which, unlike our "wild" areas, is very practical to use a solarium and quiet courtyards with small add-ons-houses. At the first level, we have already paid for tickets to the top and took advantage of another, speed, lift. Of course, there are stairs. But have not heard that someone on it went to a height of 350 meters.

Scottish roots, Nova Scotia: kay-lee, kilts and a tidal wave

Good old SHOTLADSKOE in Nova Scotia Steve Flehiv, publicist planning a trip to Nova Scotia, you must remember that a lot of time will have to spend behind the wheel. But when you pass on the "Cabot Trail", you will realize that the road has been done for a reason. Nova Scotia - a populous province of the coastal region of Canada. On the map, it resembles the letter «i», printed in italic lowercase. Bay of Fundy on the west coast and the Atlantic Ocean on the east coast form the bulk of the letters, but the point is formed due to the nearby island of Cape Breton. In the province can be easily reached by high speed ferries, sail from Portland and Bar Harbor, Maine. This large, modern sverhkomfortabelny liner with a cinema, casino and other technological developments. Stunning coast of Nova Scotia in the rearview mirror, "Kai-li" in Gaelic language (Gael) meant a "visit" and the title of Nova Scotia Nova Skousha "is of Latin origin. For these two, in general, unimportant details hides plenty of opportunity for those curious and thoughtful tourists who traveled the whole way to the island of Cape Breton. Most of the definition of "Nova Scotia" is right for this piece of land. A century ago, Gaelic was the main language for the 60,000 inhabitants of the island. This number, however, decreased by half during each decade since 1920. More than just a visit Stove on the stand - a tribute to the kitchen kay-lee, stretching back many centuries.

Hiking on the Afghan Pamir - Part 5

AFGHANISTAN: from love to hate ... TWO WEEKS OF MOUNTAIN TRANSITION (continued, part 5) In the afternoon the storm subsided. Snowflakes are now falling slowly, giving enough time already covered with snow on it so it began to melt, submerging entire villages in mud. Without the bright white snow, I did not so much dizzy, and stay on the street it was quite normal. Gradually, the villagers left their homes and began his usual rustic work. Struck two boys, a guy who was over 20, and Sarfiroz. All were thoroughly wrapped and dressed in a coat of different styles. Sarfiroz seemed to be nothing useful for not doing, as if wandering in a state of stupor there is nobody, but three others have worked tirelessly. Soon there were women and girls, dressed in dirty bright red with purple, dresses. It seemed that they perform the work. Unlike men, they did not have suitable clothing, which would protect them from melting snow. Pretty quickly they get wet, but nevertheless, the village is full of quiet singing, as they began to herd sheep and milking goats. Their soaked clothing during work stuck to the body. After lunch, Saeed asked me to give him my knife. Then I realized that in all this confusion left him in Varma. Despite my protests and entreaties that it is not necessary, he immediately began to prepare for the long way back to pick up my knife. District Chpodkis He returned with three men, three donkeys and horses. One of the men offered me a small pocket knife. "I'm not" - I said to Said, pointing to the knife, and demonstrating with gestures that my knife was bigger.

Snacks, locks and biblical scenes - Part 3

Unfinished SYRIA AND PRACTICAL JORDAN (continued, part 3) The National Museum of Damascus, a great variety of exhibits - and it is understandable, given that we are talking about a city with a history of 11,000 years - but not all of them exhibited the best . For me, the best exhibit was the sign, about the size of a deck of cards, which depicts the very first image of the letter. It was not the letter "A". Actually, it was hard to see the letter, but, according to knowledgeable people, it was the beginning of the modern alphabet. Before the invention of letters of information recorded using the characters and pictures. This letter was found in the city of Ugarit (ancient city-state on the territory of modern Syria, ca. Perevi.). The museum staff did not miss the opportunity earn a little money on the visitors. They readily can show you, for example, a banknote with museum artifacts on it, or a nod and a wink, be allowed to take some photos, where the idea of ??taking pictures is impossible. I even noticed, as our guide put it in his pocket a folded dollar bill just because someone lent him a stylus (a device for entering data into a pen, ca. Perevi.) For your Pocket PC. Tipping play an important role in the life of the Syrians, but for tourists, they pose a particular danger. By the way, our guide himself if necessary distributed baksheesh. But back to the museum. In addition to the world's first letter, there is a synagogue of the III century, which was moved to this museum and restored.

Snacks, locks and biblical scenes - part 1

Unfinished SYRIA AND JORDAN PRACTICAL Steve Dow, United Kingdom Saturday began our journey is not very good. In fact, this was undoubtedly the worst start. We were all a little concerned that my mother-in-law was hospitalized with a broken pelvis, and my wife is, understandably, could not say for sure whether she can leave her. So I packed things in a certain atmosphere of uncertainty. Then when I tried to weigh the suitcase with hand weights, all 17 kg, enclosed in its plastic wrap, I just collapsed on the leg. At first I thought it broke his toe, and I'd have to go to the hospital. This meant that the plane I did not have time. Then I thought: "Ah! It hurts, it is! "And then I thought:" I think I'll lose my mind. " I did not lose consciousness, and after 15 minutes of hopping on one foot and swearing, I continued to pack things. I also made a photocopy of the passport, which, according to my friends, you need to let me in Syria. Talkative taxi driver dropped us off at the airport and we headed to the register where the friendly representative of our travel agent - "Voyadzh Jules Verne" - have helped us, the elderly, to deal with the new screens with which you can self-register. Only needed a passport. So simple. In general, I discovered our true travel bag, which is regularly served us during all our trips, and - can you believe it? - There was only one passport. For two of us. A moment later I realized that my passport was at home, in a copier.

Snacks, locks and biblical scenes - Part 4

Unfinished SYRIA AND PRACTICAL JORDAN (continued, part 4) Monday a little annoyed that we left Damascus on the road that led to Iraq. In fact, we went to Palmyra, a city that is located within the country, near the border with Iraq. The situation in Iraq and neighboring territories it is now much calmer than some time ago, but, nevertheless, the journey along the road that led to Baghdad, a chill ran down my spine. We did stop at the cafe, which is called - "Baghdad", and could not help but be photographed against the backdrop of his expressive signs. A few miles we came to another cafe with the same title. Yes, with the fantasy of local "kafeshnikov" tugovat. Cafe "Bagdad" We turned off the Iraqi roads and headed deep into the Syrian desert. The road ran along the rugged-looking chain of rocky hills. The people we saw along the road were the Bedouins. They sat next to their tents and pickup. Herd-boys to look after their herds of sheep and goats. The desert looked at the withers and very biblically (except for pick-up trucks), but to me it seemed rather bleak and dismal. On the road to Palmyra, we stopped to look at the ancient graves. Some of them were in the towers, while others were buried. Them there were very many. These ancient cemeteries were a kind of commercial enterprises. Here you can buy a place for themselves (own separate tomb is very expensive). After the death of the deceased body buried next to other bodies. Should be, so do in order to maximize the use of living space.

Hiking on the Afghan Pamir - Part 4

AFGHANISTAN: from love to hate ... TWO WEEKS OF MOUNTAIN TRANSITION (continued, part 4) Joy disappears as we made our way through the snow uphill. I was beside myself with exhaustion and the next attack of altitude sickness, snow nabilsya my shoes and melted, turning into ice water. Toes ached from the cold. We reached the top at the very moment when I felt that I leave the last of his strength. The trail is more or less leveled off. Said the donkey suddenly set off their heels, and Sayid ran after him, shouting at him insane high-pitched voice and mercilessly courting his side with a stick. I fell into a half-mad fit of laughter. Finally, the donkey was brought under control. Said angrily beat his fist on his neck, kicked in the ribs and screamed at him. And this scene from the moment was repeated almost every day. "This is my big problem" - he said, pointing to the donkey, when we finally returned to the trail. The village of Sang Navishta Despite an empty stomach, dizziness and general fatigue, I somehow adapted to persistent maniacal move through the snow, almost without realizing where I am, how tired I am and I'm going to do. Even before I started to understand what is happening, we crossed the small hill and saw the village of Sang Navishta right below us. It was a tent with four other buildings with low roofs, which we have already seen in Varma and other abandoned villages. They were not even at home, and piles of stones with roofs of clay, which were kept on long sticks.

Mysterious drawings in the desert of Nazca

Where to go in April

APRIL - Time to conquer the peak in April, wants to shake things up after the winter and do something such an unusual and memorable for a lifetime. For example, make a pilgrimage to the sacred temples of Tibet, or to climb the highest mountain peak in the world Mount Everest. Tibet Land of the highest and most extraordinary in its beauty and grandeur of mountain peaks, exotic culture and interesting people, Tibet is one of the cleanest places of the earth. His second name the "Roof of the World" earned him quite rightly - the average height of the entire region above sea level is about four miles. That is why the population density is extremely low. Most of the population lives in the eastern part of the Tibetan plateau, in the largest cities in the region of Lhasa and Shigatse. Tibet Despite its height above sea level, the average climate in Tibet surprisingly soft. The sun illuminates the slotted ridges sky almost 3000 hours per year. After consistently harsh mountain winter weather in April and is aligned with the tourist season starts - a group of pilgrims rush to worship the relics, the climbers are preparing equipment for lifting to the highest peaks of the legendary Himalayas. This region - the constant temptation for mountain lovers, because here are the highest mountain in the world led by the legendary Mount Everest (8848m). Strictly speaking, in March, Tibet is ready to welcome new guests, but the last few years, the authorities closed the border of Tibet from foreign tourists for the period from early March to early April for political reasons.

How to choose a travel agency in Suriname - Part 1

Paramaribo - CARIBBEAN AMSTERDAM Gilles Brioni, the U.S. flight from Belem (city in Brazil, approx. Perevi.) In Paramaribo, was detained for 15 minutes, and found out that I was on it the only tourist - all others are Brazilians and of course , Surinamese. Strangest thing was that when we boarded the plane, all stewardesses were in protective masks, it felt like I was in hospital. A little later they all passengers sprinkled some disinfectant. During the flight we were given special forms for customs and immigration controls. Suddenly, people around intensified, they began to get up, walk back and forth. I was wondering what was happening, but then I realized that it was Brazilian workers, which, like in school, looked at each other how to correctly fill in the blanks that were in Suriname (ie, Dutch) and English, rather than familiar to them Portuguese. Perhaps some of them do not even know how to read and write. All this went on until the landing, we flew an hour forty five minutes. House in Paramaribo Somehow all necessarily have to leave the plane of the first, I do not know why. The bus drove us to the terminal, and we lined up. I understand that, stood in line for visitors, along with the Brazilians. Customs officer chided the majority of Brazilians, although I did not understand, what for, and gave them new forms. Family in front of me in full has been forced to re-fill them. The guy who stood before me in the queue was so nervous because of what he can do, "beating" that showed me your letterhead and asked him to check.

A country where two calendars and two ways of calculating time - part 4

MADNESS ON FARANDZHI (continued, part 4) The main event of the day was a visit to the Church of the Virgin Maria Sion, which for the Christian Ethiopians is the center of the universe. The day was a big celebration (apparently, the day the Virgin Mary of Zion, one of the two (along with Timketom) major festivals in Ethiopia, approx. Perevi.), there were a lot of people. I think we are very lucky because it was the same, the only day of the year when the public review exhibited an ancient book. It is believed that this book, "Miracle of the Virgin Mary", 1400 years old (it is made of goat skin, and color illustrations striking in their beauty), but we are unsure if they are. Ancient Book Here, too, was once built the first church on African soil. Its ruins can still be seen between the old and new churches. They say that the original church was completely covered gold, and that when it was destroyed and burned, the gold melted and flowed away like water in the river. The Church of St. Mary Zion in the museum displays to show the great treasures of the former Ethiopian rulers: their crowns, clothing and books. In a carefully guarded the chapel, as says the legend, kept the Ark of the Covenant. Only in the special guardian has access to the ark, and none but he is not allowed on the Ark of the watch. If you look at it, then immediately burn. The superintendent should not leave the chapel, he can only visit monks. The current superintendent held in the chapel in 1951. As if by coincidence - seems to us very lucky that day - we saw the keeper bypasses the surrounding area.

Ruining people not beer - part 1

TRIP TO THE MUSEUM OF BEER Guinness Darren and Michelle, Ireland During our travels, many have asked us whether we were in a museum of beer Guinness? We honestly answered no, but we all kept asking and asking, so we changed his answer to "We're going to go there when we return." In fact, I wanted to go there on the day when we returned to Ireland, it was back in December last year, but some of my friends convinced me that it is better to postpone it for another day. And that day has arrived. My wife, Michelle, nothing suspect, I booked the tickets, not speaking a word. It was supposed to be a surprise. We needed to unwind in connection with all this recession and the other pessimistic. Price ticket (we flew from Cork City) - 16 euros round trip for each. Of course, this price is a sin not to sit on an airplane and fly to him, wherever he was going! Ticket to the museum of beer Guinness I bought over the Internet, so that gave me a 10% discount. Passes for unlimited travel on city buses and trams in Dublin cost us 7.50 euros. I also bought them over the Internet. Bus from the airport cost 12 euros round trip, so we managed to save well. All that is left for me to prepare - it's a flask of water, sandwiches and daily food supplies. Joke. I'm not so frugal! It's worth it, Michel knew that I cook it a surprise, but did not know what it is. Another was a small snag - I needed her passport, but since she was in Galway, and I'm in Cork City, quietly get it I could not.

By deserted ruins of Ani kingdom - Part 1

TURKEY WITHOUT TOURISTS. Such things happen? John R, England A taxi driver in the Georgian town of Akhaltsikhe laughed at me when I saw that I wear seat belts. Later, he showed the reason for his joy. His body and his belly was so big that not enough strap length to buckle went to the mounting device. Perhaps, with his obesity could not be afraid to head-on collisions. Turkish border So we went on the road to the border. The mountains were great, but the road is disgusting, despite the fact that it was the main highway between Turkey and Georgia. Most of the time on the road to slow down and we went round the huge pothole. Borders between states have always been strange and a bit eerie in places, and the town Vale is no exception. The taxi driver dropped me off at the gate of the border strip or, more precisely, at the entrance to the farm, because that's how all this looks. I had the mud and sizzling sun is still 400 m to go to another "barn" where the back and forth went the Georgian border guard. He calmly asked me to present a passport. Then I went to some kind of window in the wall where I put a stamp that I left Georgia. Then I walk across the border with Turkey. "Chef, podbros!" I paid for a visa to U.S. - euro here for some reason not very respected - and one of the Turks asked me whether I had seen the Georgians, and whether they were asleep at the moment or not. Perhaps among them there is some antipathy, but it was still funny. And here I was in splendid isolation.

Studying the history of the island of Samos, Greece

TOUCH OF THE PAST HERITAGE OF GREECE Inca Piegsa Kuizchott, writer, fearless girl few of our friends called my friend Maureen and I "two fearless beast." We got this nickname because it is not on this earth a place where we were not ready to go. This summer we have not hesitated for a long time, choosing a destination. The fact that we both love history and literature, and prefer to combine all this in an interesting journey of discovery. Therefore, we went to a day trip to the Greek island of Samos in search of two historic landmarks: the tunnel Evpalinosa, recognized as one of the eight wonders of the ancient world and the Museum of Folklore, depicting life on an island in the twenties of the last century. A few general words about the island of Samos Greek island of Samos is located in the northeast Aegean Sea, can be reached in half an hour on the ferry, which departs from the Turkish port of Kusadasi. Quite naturally, we have used exactly this kind of transport. According to Greek mythology, Hera was born on the island, long-suffering wife of Zeus, so in all ages of the people of Samos were honored this ancient Greek goddess. The mountains on the island of Samos, Greece There are a lot of sufficiently high mountains, on the slopes of which can be seen rampant evergreen vegetation. Mount Kerkis is the highest mountain in the northeast Aegean Sea. Here, excellent beaches, coves, villages, historic sites and hotels to stay in them will be able to afford almost everyone.

Brothels, devil worship and Arabic Dance - Part 2

The harsh realities of the Russian capital through the eyes of a foreign student - part 1

Last night, she MOST HARD Jonathan Campion, editor and translator in 2005 in his third year teaching at the university I went to Russia to learn some Russian. Then I happened to visit two cities in a few hours' drive north of Moscow. In Yaroslavl, I lived in the apartment of irritable mistress, pasted on your face whiskers, so I could participate in a theatrical production, spent his evenings on Fridays with his classmates in a nightclub, called "Joy's party" and made friends with the Georgian and Azeri traders who traded on the urban clothing market. In Tver, I lived in a university dormitory in the company of a dozen friendly Finns. My memories of joyful times interrupted by the eviction of one apartment, you can not select from the other and several bouts of the unbearable Russian flu. However, the most prolonged trouble occurred to me on the last day of my stay in Russia. It was a warm May evening in 2006, and ended the day before my second semester. Rather than fly home, because the validity of my visa expired, I decided to take the train and go to Kiev to celebrate his 21 th birthday there. I was going to take the train, get on it from Tver to Moscow, where to stay overnight at my friend Helen, in an apartment on the colored Boulevard, and the next morning to go to Ukraine. View from the window train. Old pictures I began my 48-hour trip, and collided with the first problem in a minute. Plastic handle of my suitcase broke down when I carried him down the steps of the hostel.

Conquest of the beautiful mountains in a corrupt country - Part 2

Franco-British Cameroon, Buea GERMAN (continued, p.2) When a week ago I first saw the mountain, I realized that I could not leave the country without attempting to climb it. The presence of the guide was a must, and the monopoly on issuing permits for lifting and distribution of guides in the hands of a complacent fat man. The starting price was just unheard of, and, like everything else, have undergone major changes during the bidding. Looking into his journal, I noted to myself that the last four months of the rainy season on the mountain trying to climb a total of 6 people. Why not a marathon "race of hope? The picture was taken close to the second hut. Despite the fact that many with whom I spoke in Limbe and Buea, telling me that to climb the mountain would be virtually impossible, I'm secretly hoping that I will get a strong young guide, who could carry me on hands down if something happens something unexpected. Instead, I got the old man. At first I was disappointed, but then when he started to brag about the fact that climbed the mountain hundreds of times, took part in a marathon "Mountain Cameroon: Race of Hope" and the fact that the U.S. authorities revoked his visa because they were afraid that he can win in the New York marathon, I became more confident in his abilities. On the recommendation of smug manager tourist office, I bought a huge lot of food for the ascent, and then returned to the guest house where I have failed properly to sleep, dreaming about all the small stuff.

In search of Somali pirates - Part 1

What to do in Somalia, Christopher James, Hong Kong Yes, all true. Somalia. The most dangerous country in the world. Well, they say. Worldwide of Somalia formed an opinion that if in this East African country live entirely bad characters, only capable of piracy, and so vicious and terrible that they are even on Treasure Island would not let him. Site of the Foreign Office (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Commonwealth of Great Britain, the foreign body of the United Kingdom, prim.perev) paints a grim picture, designed for people with strong nerves. The price of freedom southern part of Somalia - Somalia's your worst dreams. Located north of the secessionist state of Puntland, which occupies the eastern part of the Horn of Africa. To the west of it there is another secessionist entity - Somaliland (Somalia before the country gained independence there was a colony of British Somaliland). Of these three states only in Somaliland now tourists come. But still here is quite dangerous. In 2003, Somali guerrillas crossed the border and killed a number of humanitarian workers. In 2008, the Somaliland capital, Hargeisa town, worked three explosive devices. The aim of the attacks were again foreigners. On the last day of my visit it was reported that an explosion occurred in the suburbs of Hargeisa, a city-Laas Anod. Kidnappings are generally occur almost every day. And while the independence of Somaliland is not recognized by the world community (this is the local media not particularly like to remember), the country desperately needs positive feedback from tourists, which would help improve its image and credibility abroad.

Conquest of the beautiful mountains in a corrupt country - part 3

Franco-British Cameroon, Buea GERMAN (continued, part 3) My guide, the old mountain goat, was a little unhappy that I went ahead of him during the descent. But he still wanted me to become his sponsor and gave him a lot of money for the next marathon "Race of Hope." He explained - with a pompous smart face - all the benefits that brings with it corruption. "How did it smartly crafted" - I thought, looking into his eyes and saw nothing there, except for traces of well-functioning machinery of government propaganda. No tip, I did not let him. The view from the summit of Mount Cameroon, the next day (and all of the following week), I was not so much active, because he could hardly walk. The last time so I had to strain during the celebrations at the meeting of the new millennium. I climbed into a taxi and went to the foot of the mountains, leaving behind the friendly English-speaking public for the sake of the financial capital of Cameroon, Douala, with its ruthless francophone mentality. There I was stripped like a sticky, because the other choice than to be stripped, I was not. Had to leave the city of Yaounde, the capital of the country. Mount Cameroon, the last trees on the way to vrshine Yaounde was a beautiful city, situated on steep hills with tasteless skyscrapers avant-garde architecture, occupying the whole central part of the capital. However, as in Douala, Yaounde strong xenophobia. For the most part it does not show obvious ways, but there are times that no-no, and will show its ugly face.

Stone miracle of South Africa - part 2

MYSTERIOUS THE GREAT ZIMBABWE (continued, p.2), I landed half a kilometer from the entrance. The sun had set, and I still had to get to the shelter, where in the same room with me will rest two painter ... to sleep and snore through the night. Houses in Great Zimbabwe, I woke up at 6 o'clock, because had no idea how I'll get back to Harare. When I walked on the ancient trail to the top of the hill sat a baboon. Initially, from afar, it seemed to me that this dog. Coming closer, I waved to him, and he fled. Among the huge granite stones were made by steps, that gave this place similar to the fortress. But at the same time, this archaeological site, I had never seen before. From the top of the hill, I was able to look at the ancient city of Great Zimbabwe. Throughout its territory can be divided into three parts: the complex on a hill, the wall of the valley and a large area at a distance. The complex on the hill are a number of facilities for prayers and for housing noble persons. Houses the most important people were in the eastern part, however, on the west side of a hill overlooking a better, and the terraces are prettier. Ruins in the valley wall in the valley of nothing is nothing is, but it stands out from the big city. More than 200 meters in length, 11 in height and 5 in the thickness, it forms a circle and is the largest pre-colonial building in that part of Africa, which is located south of the Sahara. Wall in a large city found a set of symbolic structures, which can be found throughout Zimbabwe, the foremost of which is a 10-meter tower is conical in shape.