Voyage Manchester gentleman Ukrainian cities - part 3

AGAIN (former) Soviet Union (continued, part 3) can be difficult to understand the music lover As we stood at the edge of the pier, I was pointed in the direction of the lighthouse on the other side of the port and asked Marina: "You do not know that a man who serves the lighthouse, he lives with his wife and children? "On the face of Marina has been displayed universal boredom of all time, but she found the strength to answer in the affirmative. "Stop! So in fact they are all taken together form a family that lives in a lighthouse! Ze Lighthouse Family! "- I yelled. "Well, yes," - said my companion, "why are you so excited?» (The lighthouse family - a family that lives and maintains the lighthouse, prim.perev.) Then I had to read the short help of music history that a group of "Ze Lighthouse Family" is very well known to all music lovers since the late 80's. For greater clarity, I even sang a few lines from the song "Lifted": "Oh, we could emerge from the shadows to the light ...." Instead of applause I've seen in the auditorium just surprised looks stunned audience. Curtain. Then I remembered my last trip to Odessa. Then, three years ago, I played about the same "concert room", but the audience was two, in addition to the marina, as the reader will recall, was with us, Jeff. We then walked on a boat around the bay, it was the only time my joke has caused genuine laughter my friend. All other attempts to laugh it ended with the fact that Jeff shook his head in amazement and stretched face somewhere in the direction of space, probably in the direction of the star Alpha Centauri.

In Honduras and without tourists is not bad - part 1

Blonde, ride to and Waterfalls Ben Bahia, Germany, the only thing in Honduras, you will not see - it's tourists. After visiting the islands Islas da la Bahia, (they are in the Caribbean Sea, off the northern coast of Honduras), where tourists have more than enough, we expect to see many newcomers across the country, but to our surprise, this did not happen. For a whole week of our stay we met a few foreign tourists (three German students and American family near Lake Yoho). At other times, it seemed as if all world governments issued any a warning about Honduras, but we missed them. All the hotels where we stayed, were completely empty. We did not see a single guest. All local buses, which we had to use it, never had a gringo or some other alien. During the inspection of local attractions are just us and nobody but us. Great! We remembered other countries that we were able to visit during this trip, and Honduras seemed to us something unreal. Only in El Salvador, there we go back after the Honduran approximately the same situation. Because there were no other travelers, we have had several amazing encounters with the locals. In addition, the country is totally ruined a lot of foreign guests. I was also surprised that with us almost never have more money than with the locals, except for a strange entry fee. Traveling is much easier when you do not need to be alert and overly tense when paying for goods or services. Pulhanpansak Waterfall Our first stop at this stage travel was Yoho Lake, located in the western part of the country.

Through Russia to Baikal - part 1

Trans-Siberian trip for two to Chris and Anna, UK Customs officials were not always the most cheerful people, but a woman who met us in Russia, could easily get the prize of the Snow Queen. We stood in a queue along with other foreigners, looking at how all those who stood before us, examined the lady who was very similar to the Anne Robinson of "weak link" (British television host intelligent show, approx. Perevi.). She, in silence, looking through each falling into her hands a passport, constantly sighing, desperately trying to find at least some inconsistency with the visas. After careful study of passports, which seemed to have taken an eternity, she grumbled, acknowledged his defeat and glumly pointed us to pass on, through a metal detector. Fortunately, such dire people like this woman, we met infrequently. In fact, most of them Russian, with whom we have met have been pretty nice people, even the drunk was interesting to practice their English and a little chat with us. Moscow. St. Basil's Cathedral. Our adventure began in Russia in Moscow, where we spent just two days before they began their journey on the Trans-rail in the direction of Beijing. The ancient architecture of the Kremlin, Moscow - a city unusual. Two days later, of course, is not enough to get an idea of ??the city, however, by the end of our stay, we both felt a certain indifference to this place. We certainly did not hate Moscow, but also about the love we did not go. In this city with all the clarity we have noticed the gap that separates rich and poor.

Bike Tour of Montreal: an adventure without a car

My friend and I travel together ... on the green continent - Part 4

IN SEARCH OF THE SUN THROUGH ALL AUSTRALIA (continued, part 4) Thus, the last bus, which we used in Australia, delivered us to the city of Melbourne. It was a very heavy 13-hour crossing. On the other hand, due to the fact that we have repeatedly went on the road at night, managed to save a lot of money because we did not have to rent a hotel room. Our stay in Melbourne was very different from our trips to other cities because here we had a lot of friends, so we almost did not feel like tourists in this city. It's amazing how you start to appreciate the simple things, such as feather beds and sofas, where you quite a long time has been deprived of this luxury. . Most of the time in Melbourne we spent in the company of our own guide. Our friend Anna, we met during a trip to Malaysia. Anna, by the way, learns to Jade at the university. The first few days we spent just walking around town and enjoying a very familiar atmosphere of the city's cafes. From Melbourne we still have very pleasant memories. It is not as big as Sydney, which gives it its charm. We went to the match on Australian football. We respected the rules, and we thought it was a very tough game. Anne's team lost just one point. What a pity! The same day, we climbed (no, not climbed - by elevator) to the observation deck a skyscraper "Eureka", the tallest residential building in the world. Kind of out great, the whole Melbourne - in your hand! Melbourne, at a glance I also liked how we went by car Anna at Phillip Island to see penguins on parade and on the road Great Ocean Road.

My friend and I travel together ... on the green continent - part 2

IN SEARCH OF THE SUN THROUGH ALL AUSTRALIA (continued, p.2) The next day we spent on the road. We went by bus along the east coast, but it was only the first of many other long journeys, which we had to do. We arrived at the scene 12 hours later and immediately went to the hotel. The town of Airlie Beach is the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. In general, the more and talk about it there is nothing - a long street with restaurants, bars, hotels, travel agencies and, of course, a marina. But we still liked the city! The next three days, we, along with 20 other tourists went on a yacht called the "Alexander Stewart". It was a luxurious yacht, and although initially we wanted to get on another boat, and our application messed up, everything was on the highest level! We had his own cabin, while on other ships we have always placed in a dormitory. Luxuriously! Airlie Beach Weather during our voyage changed very often. Often was rain, the wind was blowing, and very rarely we have been able to see the sun! Most flights to the islands has been canceled due to strong winds and an approaching cyclone, but we were lucky - our boat was the penultimate vessel that dared to leave the port. At least we went out to sea. The storm caught us just at the middle of the road. (Later we learned that the cyclone hit Airlie Beach and everything in town closed at this time). Most of all I liked to dive in the Bay of Blue Pearl. I've never seen anything like it. And on the beach, Whitehaven Beach, the sand was so white that they could clean their jewelry, and the result would have been much better than after brushing the jewelry shop in our home!

Forgotten Island of Mozambique - part 3

BAD BUSES - GOOD STORIES (continued, part 3) City Maqutu looks like an animated advertising organization World Vision (Christian humanitarian organization working to combat the causes of poverty and injustice, approx. TRANSFER).. Local residents stoked furnace coal, so the district is characteristic flavor. tarpaulin, as well as tin sheets, used as a shelter. Everywhere the dirt and the children in ragged clothes, who looks as if it did not change for several months. Here, clearly felt the desolation, like the country and in the actually forgot about this island.'s Hospital Children instantly stick to you like glue, and are always happy to show the neighborhood, but at the same time expect something in return. In his first day, I walked around the island in the company of a Dutch couple. The Dutchman is a teacher, and he could not resist not to ask children coming across to us as there will be 27 plus 5. A dozen kids just looked at him absently gaze, and only one attempted to find and correct answers. At first it seemed the most stupid of all. After a few minutes ago, he simply drew a foot strips on the sand. As many as 200 meter bands. Palace Island of Mozambique for me - it's not just first impressions, this is part of a comprehensive perspective, which is formed anew in each new journey. This perception can have more fun from happening. I think my opinion has improved because I stopped in Maqutu in the guest house where you could take a shower, pouring himself out of the bucket, and a couple of buckets of water were always at the ready in the closet.

Forgotten Island of Mozambique - part 1

BAD BUSES - GOOD STORIES Drew Prineas, the U.S. passed through a crowded salon bus, I asked the driver: "Diskulpe! But hacienda? "(Sorry, no vacancies?). The driver stood up and showed me a number in the cabin, where there was a free middle seat. The place was between the woman at the window, which nursed the child, and a guy in a yellow baseball cap, he sat in the aisle. I just made a difficult journey, and immediately began another. Will there be a deviation from my route to visit the island and the city of Mozambique (the former capital of the former Portuguese colony), justified, or it will be another test of strength in my body and spirit? Bus trip to Africa for the lone traveler is akin to military action. You are well aware that will not be easy. Go long, and in Mozambique the situation is complicated by the fact that almost all the buses depart at 4 am. The day before I crossed the border with Zimbabwe. Thank you for a drunken taxi driver and very friendly staff frontier Mozambique. Shomoyo first major town on my way to become Chimoio, which at that time held a cultural festival. It was a lot of music, pictures, any gift, meal, including the most exotic, but I wanted to see the coast. Mozambique is divided into two parts - north and south. The northern part has remained aloof from my route at this stage of travel. To reach the island of Mozambique, I had to do two transplants in each of the buses, in which I drove, there was something interesting. Marketers It was four o'clock in the morning.

Unapproachable beauty of Antarctica

ON Nordenskiold next expedition Lorraine Johnston, historian of the morning we woke up and saw through the window of the island of Pula. After 3 days sailing on the sea, we got Scott to Antarctica. By 8 am we were on a narrow stone beach, surrounded by 100,000 pairs of Adelie penguins. The entire island is teeming with them simply (though its diameter is only one mile). Around life was in full swing - there were so many penguins are waddling walk between the sea and nests that were almost impossible to walk along the beach. Penguins are rightful owners. If they go to the beach, then you need to stand and wait, and they stop and stare at you, it's a hopeless situation, but you just need to wait until they decide to go further. When they reach the end of the beach, again happens jam - leopard seals combing the area, imperceptibly gliding among ice floes, sometimes looking around in search of penguins. On the way to the island of Pula Adelie penguins with chicks on the island of Pula Large flocks of penguins deliberately marking time from one end of the beach to another, trying to find a site where there are no predators. They were constantly stopped, very carefully examine the place and continue to move. Completely unclear why they do not like this or that place. In the end, the penguins on the edge of becoming so many that begin to push back the front, and they stumble and fall into the sea. As soon as the first dive safely, others too are beginning to jump into the water, but only 10 seconds, and then they suddenly stop, quickly look around and go find another place.

My friend and I travel together ... on the green continent - Part 1

IN SEARCH OF THE SUN THROUGH ALL AUSTRALIA Nikki and Jade, students after six weeks we spent in southeast Asia, moving to the city of Cairns was a real shock for us: it was much colder, besides, everyone here said in plain language to us, and we could communicate freely with everyone with whom you want! Our first impressions of Cairns were very good, especially because the weather was just wonderful. Cairns - a small nice and quiet town, but the atmosphere is just wonderful! This is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef! We really helped staff the hotel where we stayed. They have helped us sign up for different tours and plan our trip. So after we spent half of the first day trying to recover from a night flight and time difference, we signed up for the tour to the Great Barrier Reef, which was to be held the next day. City of Cairns we spent the whole day on the boat. After much hesitation I decided to dive with an aqualung. This was what is called a "familiarization dive", this time the instructors are loaded with tourists and help them ... so that people could feel like this is all happening. In the end, I did two more dives, because I really had to do like: the amazing colors of corals and different fish - everything was just fine. In addition, we swam with reef sharks (never thought that I was on such a capable!) We went to Green Island, which was a small piece of land in the middle of the reef, and although the weather began to deteriorate even with dinner, but he looked just fabulous.

Country pleasant vampires, or where "take flesh" - Part 1

Cigarettes, DRACULA, WINE AND FISH Jaba and Anna, Australia from Istanbul overnight train took us north to Bulgaria. We drank a bottle of brandy with our companions and went to sleep. At 3 am we were awakened guards, who sent us to the far end of the station, because only you could put a stamp on the border. As soon as we got out of the train, the conductor took me aside and gave me 15 euros and asked to buy 3 packs of cigarettes in store "duty free". Once we put a stamp in the passport, I had to go to the store. On the road I realized that the conductor does not have a brand of cigarettes. I had to go first to the train, then to the store and there I was pleased with the news that the brand of cigarettes, which asked the conductor, who had just sold. Had to repeat the whole ritual, trying not to think about the fact that almost 4 in the morning, and all have long been asleep. The second time I entered the store, repeating to himself the title of another brand of cigarettes. The store told me that the brand they have never been. Come on! Returning to the train, I could not find a guide. Had to stand and wait. As soon as I noticed it away, I wanted to move him, but the burly Bulgarian soldiers with a German shepherd dog on a leash screamed: "Mr. Wilson! Where are you going? ". And he is yelled that any desire to go anywhere soon disappeared. Oh well ... Although, for the return of the compartment I was somehow not on itself due to the fact that I failed in my mission.

In Honduras and without tourists is not bad - part 2

Blonde, ride to and Waterfalls (continued, p.2) In opposition to this reckless adventure, we went to the tranquility of the hot springs Akuas-Termales de Asakualpa. Piping hot water and an abundance of sulphurous smoke flowed from the middle of an elongated, tunnel-like cave, and flowed freely down. In the part of the cave, which is to hot spring water is cool and refreshing, but after it - unbearably hot, but slightly downstream where the flow of hot water meets another underground river, the flow temperature falls and the water is pleasantly warm. In addition, the cave itself is ideally suited to the role of the natural sauna. Depending on how close to sit to the hole through which the smoke comes out, the temperature ranged from mild to unbearably hot. It goes without saying that throughout the cave, including room for 24 people, were only by us. Akuas-Termales de Asakualpa visiting rural areas of Honduras, I could not help noticing a large number of children with blond hair. Amazing sight! In Latin American countries, where almost 100% of dark hair and eyes and dark skin, I kept mentally asking yourself: "Where are the parents, for example, this blonde girl?" The answer, of course, can serve as a Spanish genes. But still, surprisingly, like two dark-haired parents may be born a blonde little boy. And I have every time when he saw another blonde Honduran child, gazing thoughtfully into his trail. During our visits to this country, we quickly realized that the best way to get here is hitchhiking.

Through Russia to Baikal - part 2

Trans-Siberian trip for two (continued, part 2) Since the trip from Moscow to Irkutsk takes approximately 75 hours, we decided to pamper yourself and go first class. And, despite the fact that the path of other tourists, whom we met on the road, poked fun at us, I'm glad that we decided to go that way, because we were traveling in a separate compartment, but it was not so bad during the long-term move. Apron business to the charge of each car conductor. Women conductors are called "conductor". We heard that the conductor is best to find a common language, because it is endowed with the ability to make your trip enjoyable or not at all. Knowing this feature, I was looking forward to get acquainted with our conductor, had hoped that it would be a nice old lady with violet hair, which will take us under his wing and become our Russian mother for the duration of the trip. Eating on the train Unfortunately, it was not our case. Our conductor was about the same age with us, rarely smiled, and no interest to the passengers did not show. Damn! In honor speaking, we are both her little afraid, so powerful it was. When I finally plucked up courage and asked her a glass of it for some time ceased to put the cream on your face and brought out his two glasses compartment. During this time I was able to consider that in her coupe is a whole basket of different sweets. Russian estate, monstrous and ruthless cookies out there, chocolate. Herein lies the secret of the Trans-Siberian happiness?

Hell of a track and subsistence earners in the form of police officers - part 3

Nigeria - The first and last time (the ending part 3) Another planet when we moved to Abuja, it seemed like we were on another planet. Wide double lines, multi-storey buildings, poles with traffic signs, street names - it was like any modern city. We went to the hotel "Sheraton" and, despite the enormous cost, they took the number one day. We are tired, so that words can not describe, but we were safe, and in the next 24 hours we did not need to go anywhere. In Abuja, we had to spend a few days and during that time to obtain visas in Cameroon. We decided that while we wait for a visa, you need to grease the car. But there turned out an interesting fact. Despite the fact that in Nigeria vast oil reserves, the country has a shortage of gasoline, diesel fuel and, of course, oil. In the end, we still managed to find a man who showed us where our car will take care of. While we waited in the shop, I noticed a sign which warned about what to do during a fire. I really liked the statement, which read "run with all haste." Is only in Nigeria you can see! We're a little nervous before to get back on Nigerian roads, however, we were pleasantly surprised that the roads in eastern Nigeria is quite normal, same as the whole of Africa. True, we had to continually deal with the traffic police, which apparently went out to hunt in packs. One time I counted 20 people, all of something we screamed, threatened to confiscate our car, because he's right-hand drive, claiming that our international law do not apply in Nigeria.

Expensive and noisy Belize - Part 2

MAYA CAVES AND DELICIOUS FOOD (continued, p.2) The cave entrance is quite wide. It implies some sort of a river, so we had to enter the cave by swimming. We followed our guide Martin. Everything was dark, so we put on helmets with flashlights. The cave was beautiful! We climbed up, then going down, making their way through narrow passages, sometimes we even had to cross the river to swim and wade. All this time we looked at the sides and top, where there were bats and stunning stalactites and stalagmites, as well as various crystals that sparkled in the dark, like diamonds. The cave had a lot of ancient pottery that Maya left behind as offerings to the gods of many hundreds, maybe thousands of years ago. Also there were the remains of those whom the Maya sacrificed. Most of the impression remains of a young woman who was left at the top of the cave. Her bones are still lying as though she is dancing. Over time, they were covered with different layers and look a bit shaggy. Stunner! Mayan pottery on the surface we went in the evening. Seen fireflies and bats. More than anything interesting. Our guide said that several months ago on his way to the bus the tourists saw a boa constrictor, and a few days and puma, but we're out of luck the next morning we boarded the yellow bus to Belize City. We're lucky we got on the express. Though he is worth half as much, but we have saved about an hour. In addition, we are fortunate that the people were few. The rest of the buses that we saw before, were filled to capacity.

Through Russia to Baikal - part 3

Trans-Siberian trip for two (continued, part 3) We have decided to cancel our trip on the famous Lake Baikal. Yes, this is the place which is mentioned in the book "1001 natural wonder that must be seen in my life." And that he was nicknamed "the pearl of Siberia". Lake Baikal - a miracle of nature. This is the most ancient lake on the planet. At the deepest point it reaches 1637 meters, it is 20% of the fresh water of the Earth. Its water is known for its purity, which can be obtained from the fact that water is constantly filtered different sponges and crustaceans. They say that when calm weather white disc of 30 cm in diameter can be seen at a depth of 40 meters. If desired, the water you can drink. In fact, I think that all the water that comes into our guest house, was taken from the lake. Morning on Olkhon According to the Trans-Siberian Handbook ", if the world ended in drinking water, the water from the lake would be enough for 40 years. What do you mean? In the waters of Lake Baikal are hundreds of species of fish that can be found only here and nowhere else. In winter the lake is transformed into an ice wonderland. I saw pictures of stunning ice sculptures that are produced here in the winter months. They look absolutely incredible. Even the local cow could not resist the beauty of the lake according to one of the beliefs, swimming in the lake can add 25 years to your life, unless, of course, shock or hypothermia will not get you before! My friend Chris is clearly nervous about that soon he turns 31 years old, so he decided that he would not leave until they swim in Lake Baikal.

In Honduras and without tourists is not bad - part 3

Blonde, ride to and Waterfalls (continued, part 3) A few crazy drivers, however, a couple of days we have recaptured the hunt to catch the ride to. Do the drivers here are simply no sense of danger. Sense of responsibility they have, by the way, also. Surely, the bus driver is absolutely necessary to send a SMS to someone at the time, as he rushes down the mountain, or cut corners? He's just half an hour of crawling along the road, hoping to pick up a couple more passengers! Or maybe a father obliged to overtake a truck on a mountain slope, and yes even cornering, when sitting next to him all his family and three foreign tourists in the back of his pickup truck? Or maybe I'm too fussy? Lake Yoho We have witnessed several horrific accidents, and once even asked to stop and left the car because we were scared, and we literally were afraid to die, sitting in the open bed of a pickup. The reader may ask, why do we all enjoyed so creepy way to travel? The answer is simple. These pickups come across here very often, but their drivers do not hesitate to stop at a "voice". That's why had to risk one's health and compress your teeth, seeing how reckless driver risks his and your life. Apparently, all these stickers on buses and cars, which read "Jesus Christ - the Lord God" or "Jehovah - my shepherd," as something related to their careless and reckless manner of driving. However, the figures speak for themselves. In Honduras, two times higher mortality on the roads than, say, Germany with its autobahns, where there was no speed limit.

Unforgettable nature of Costa Rica

THE MAGIC LAND OF SOUTH AMERICA Climb the mountain to the summit, admire the plants, old trees, wide and open plains, perfect scenery, when the sky is painted in red and the earth is telling you their story. The fourth part of the territory of Costa Rica is protected national parks and biological reserves. Unexplored corners and rainy forests - a real treasure for all humanity. Here are 6 percent of all species of flora and fauna of our planet. Volcanoes, similar to the tower, with spectacular craters, as if now ready to the eruption. Enjoy the hot springs and listen to the breathing of our planet. Surprised the biggest crater on the planet, but do not forget that you're not on the moon. Discover the casket ecological riches of the earth. Imagine yourself in the audience an unforgettable spectacle, which goes without intermission day and night, where thousands of species of plants, decorations and many hundreds of animal-actors improvise tirelessly on this wider stage. Witness the numerous variety of birds and their incredible beauty of plumage, listen to a lot of their sounds and songs. Consider the majestic turtles of different species, conducting their leisurely days on the beach. Put on a wetsuit, scuba gear and take a dive into the endless underwater gardens. Thousands of colorful fish surround you from all sides, huge picturesque rocks, hundreds of sharks, skates and rays of gold set in an endless florid dance. Costa Rica - a paradise for scuba diving. Choosing Costa Rica as a place to rest, you can get better as an adventure, and wholesome recreational activities with relaxation.

Discouraged by Japanese traditions, but full of impressions - part 4

AMAZING Aerochute (continued, part 4) The next day we met with Yu, a friend of Ben, who came after him. It surprised me when I took the joystick on a game console and asked me to heat in a completely crazy cartoon game, in which it was necessary to fight, and she had never played! Very nice girl! She said her brother's name is Mu. Yu and the Mi (Yu and Mi - consonant with the English word for "you" and "I"). On that day we went to Akihabara (the quarter in Tokyo, ca. Perevi.), Also known as the "city of wise men", a completely insane place where electronics - from the most advanced to useless - is intact piles, and around a lot of fuss people. Wow! We know Martha decided to split, because it's all she was not very interesting (she found some cheap shops and bought a couple of things out there for 20 pence apiece!), And I got into manga shop, on 3 floors of which you can buy thousands of various comics. The first floor is available under the manga for adults. I was just stunned by how candid can be this kind of comics. Clearly, in this case, one may say, the genre than unseemly - the better. But, sorry, not to the same degree! Complete madness! Alas, dear reader, I just can not bring pictures of these "masterpieces of sin, but even words can not describe! Even more insane to us seemed a respectable man in the suit, which, quite unashamedly, considered a comic strip in public transport. Everyone who rode beside him, had nothing against such a choice of magazine, even though those same people are unhappy frown when Martha decided to eat a sandwich.

Hell of a track and subsistence earners in the form of police officers - part 1

Nigeria - The first and last time Janet Wilson, England We were worried before coming to Nigeria because they have heard about it a lot of horror stories. We wanted to go to south Africa, and it so happened that at that point the way through Nigeria was the safest route for us. We decided that it is best to cross the border in northern Nigeria, not to lose time in vain on a busy checkpoint in the district of Lagos (Nigeria's largest city, approx. Perevi.). The border of Benin and Nigeria to the Nigerian border, we drove up the alert, because I do not know what we continue to expect. However, police at the checkpoint we were greeted warmly and wished a happy journey. We went to the medical officer, who noted in their needed information about our vaccinations and also wished us luck on the road. Next, we waited for customs. And again, we have adopted is quite warm and even advised how best to get to Abuja, the capital of Nigeria. Head of the Customs Service told us that before us today, they saw only one traveler in a car and three other Germans on motorcycles, and all other cross this post on foot. Customs officers have agreed to give us a visa for 27 days instead of 7-day and gladly fill in a customs license to our car when we showed them where to put the press, and how and what to write in it. Then they helped us find someone who would be able to exchange for our money. Everything was just wonderful. Start encouraging, and we are on a dusty dirt road headed into the next on our itinerary of the village.

Beggars on the background of ancient architecture

Vietnam's cities of Hoi An Town Hoi An is located on the east coast of Vietnam. The old part of town recognized by UNESCO as world heritage by the ancient buildings are well preserved. To get there, the ticket is not needed, although many guidebooks claim otherwise. Need to buy a ticket only if you want to visit museums, churches, etc. Dawn of Hoi An visit a lot of tourists. Unfortunately, because this is an incredibly "bred" street vendors and beggars. This is the only place in the whole Vietnam, where we have strong presence prevented sellers of newspapers and stubborn beggars. A typical Vietnamese street, look for the sign The city looks a bit shabby and unpresentable the light of day, but at night he wakes up and lives in a completely different life. There are plenty of restaurants and bars at reasonable prices. Vietnamese woman selling flowers. The four of them on the heads of the traditional conical hats. Hoi An is also famous for his studio, where sew clothes of high quality. The cheapest are on the market, more expensive - in the city center. The high competition forces tailors to cut prices and keep the quality high. Silk fabric "typically contains 20 to 30 percent of natural silk. Hoi An is also famous for its art galleries Thu Bon River Traditionally, there are fishing net Note the painted eyes on the boats See also: Cockroaches - beneficial insects, they eat worms ... in a train compartment quiet town on the banks of the River Fragrance non-Chinese city with Chinese influence, former prison island, and now - a good place for diving shocking dinner in Vietnam you are sunbathing at the provincial beach in Vietnam?

Hell of a track and subsistence earners in the form of police officers - part 2

Nigeria - The first and last time (continued, p.2) To hell and back We thought we were prepared for the worst state "highways, traffic jams and other" charms "of Nigerian roads. We read everything that has ever been written about the stretch of road on which we had to travel to Abuja, but we just were not ready, what we face in reality. It seemed like we were driving through the scenery of one of the novels of Stephen King. All around him was devoid of any color, everything seemed to be grayish, the sun eclipsed smog and black smoke from the fires, even piles of trash have lost their color and any connection with life. The road was destroyed by an endless stream of trucks and fuel tankers, ruled by a completely insane drivers. Machines are constantly heels, avoiding potholes, some of which resembled the size of craters from explosions. None of the machines were not working marker lights, none of the machines did not have rear view mirrors, in fact, some did not even have a windshield, so it seemed that on this road, one thinks only of himself. Trucks suddenly stopped suddenly changed direction or that was even worse, rushed straight at us, so we had to go to the sidelines to avoid a collision. Shoulder could tell the story of this route eloquent of all. Burned Body fuel tankers, trucks, and what little remained of the car, creating a picture of a hellish place. People were dressed in clothes dirty-gray tint, naked children scurried about in heaps of garbage along with the ghosts of goats and chickens.

Ruining people not beer - part 3

TRIP TO THE MUSEUM OF BEER Guinness (continued, part 3) tour itself was very interesting. The museum has 7 floors with many rooms of various subjects. Some of them were devoted to technology and ingredients, of which Guinness is brewed beer, while others - long history of beer advertising campaigns, and others talked about the company founder Arthur Guinness, and a fourth - the life of the brewery workers. But most of all we liked the room, where he gave a "free" pint of Guinness beer at the end of the tour. City of Dublin looked great, but, unfortunately, particularly there to see it was not on that. If Dublin was a man, it would be rude, not very well-dressed, and probably a bit sniffy character, but worth it to speak to him, "Dublin" could listen all night long. The Dublin General Post Office you must be thinking that that pint of beer, which we were treated to tours at the end was the best in the world. Personally, I imagined that this would be especially pint, much better than anything I've drank in my life. But it was not. Beer was as tasty, as usual, so that the commitment to consistent quality of Guinness, which we so often heard throughout the tour, still holds. Even funny how many times have we seen or heard the advertising slogan "Guinness is useful, the company adheres to its more than one year. Right to imagine how the people visiting the museum of beer starts to avoid doctors and drink beer to feel better. In the elevator on the way down a few Americans doing stupid comments and a lot of noise.

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.

Cambodian wilderness

Stride from Ben Loong TO KRATA first day in Cambodia brought a perfect storm of events. However, it should be noted, I was ready for it. We had to spend several hours in the company's guards before entering into the country. Despite the fact that all documents were in order, we for some reason is strictly forbidden to cross the border between Laos and Cambodia. But in the end, the problem goes away extra five-dollar bills. Following this ordeal began quite uncomfortable, I would say, a curious trip to the Ben Loong. At the end of my trip I felt much better, freed from captivity, the so-called "common taxi. The idea of ??this, I may say so, the vehicle is to stuff into one car so the passengers as possible physically. Feeling the earth under their feet has never seemed so enjoyable! Using clues "Lonely captivate» («Lonely Planet» - popular worldwide travel guide, prim.perev.), We managed to rent a room in a fairly comfortable, in my opinion the hotel. Compared with those apartments, which had to stop for many months of travel, this place seemed a luxurious royal palace. For the first time Cambodian cuisine I was lucky enough to try the restaurant "Soup 63. Dish "Ratonkiri Beef" was a revelation. I would call this dish "DIY": you make the dishes, foods, beef, pasta, vegetables and spices, and offer to cook it all yourself. Taste simply divine! If you ever see this name on the menu, my advice to you: Try! Hit Cambodian cuisine in a series of "DIY" - "Ratonkiri Beef" Ben Loong was tiny and dull town, without any infrastructure was fun.

Photography in the Brazilian bird nursery - part 2

PARADISE for parrots and elusive KOLIBRI (continued, p.2) In the next barn lived mainly red ibises, and toucans. Ibises were a little smaller than I thought, but with much more vivid plumage. They were very similar to those of birds that can be seen in Egyptian hieroglyphics. At some point they all suddenly decided to break away from the place of the pool and ran to the railing walkway. Liz a little scared and even cry out in surprise, but it was a good shot. In the barn there were other birds, but I do not know what they are called. There was a hope to find their names in the Web encyclopedia, but, unfortunately, the internet connection here is not very good, so I'll try to do this when I get home. The only unknown to me the bird from the hen house, which I would like to mention, was a large, completely white bird, like a crane. This "Crane" was not in the spirit and walk in front of me so that I took his picture in all its glory, did not want to, though I patiently waited for this moment for some time. In the end, I took a picture of a bird in the supine position and went on. For those curious ibises poultry is a terrarium. Most of its inhabitants teeth pretty impressive size, and bite them decently, so that they all sit in closed enclosures. A striking example of "biting" reptile was a huge alligator, who basked in the sun! From that safe place where we stood, alligator seemed pretty boring. For a short time, about five minutes, during which we will be watching, he just opened his mouth slightly and blinked four times.

A quiet town on the banks of the River Fragrance

Majestic city of Hue, Hue - quiet and peaceful town, situated on the banks of the River Huong (River Fragrance) in the central part of Vietnam. He is big enough to stay in it for a few days, and is small enough for him it was possible to travel by bike or on foot. Residents of Hue claim that their cuisine - the best in Vietnam, and we are pleased to confirm this, since there is really great cook! Recommend you try "Him Louis - Chopped pork on bamboo sticks, roasted over coals, and" Ban Khoi - a pie stuffed with shrimp, pork and bean sprouts. Resident in Hue traditional dress "Ao Dai" a refreshing swim in the River Fragrance Hue is divided into the old fortified citadel, which are all historically valuable sites, and the new city across the river flavor. The new part of town you will find everything a traveler might need. The main attraction of Hue is the old Imperial complex, the Citadel and the Forbidden City. Several kilometers to the south of the city are pagodas and tombs of rulers. Imperial Palace of Hue Imperial Fort Fake antiques are sold in street markets Embroidery has always been a traditional craft of Hue, and virtually everywhere in the tourist area you can buy embroidered designs in the frame. Souvenirs from the time the Vietnam War (which they call "American War"), can also be purchased from vendors on the streets. Most of these veshchichek strictly prohibited carry on board, so be careful! Still here selling "pottery dynasty, allegedly lifted from the bottom of rivers flavor.

Ruining people not beer - part 2

TRIP TO THE MUSEUM OF BEER Guinness (continued, part 2) Our plane took off and landed faster than the flight attendant had time to spread the drinks at the salon. Pilots Airlines Rayaneyr "with great pathos through the speakerphone announced that we arrived on time. At 8 am a little angry. In general, they are somehow easier to just say that they arrived on time. If they make a schedule with 15 ... 30-minute margin, they will always stay on time. Hardly any of the passengers will argue: "Hey," Rayaneyr "You're lying! Last week I flew a lot faster! "Arriving in Dublin, we hoped that the Express from the airport to the city, too, arrives at its destination 15 minutes ahead of schedule. But first we had to find some cafes where at 9 am on Sunday would be served breakfast. It was not easy, but still we found a cafe on O'Connell Street, where we prepared a normal classic breakfast. With breakfast, we cracked down to 9:45, but go to the museum was a bit early. We went for a walk around the city, during which some people have asked us 2 euros for the bus (so I believed them, and!), Photographing the city center and wondered who authorized to construct a Dublin needle (the official name - "Monument of Light" steel monument with a 120-meter needle, is situated in the heart of Dublin, ca. Perevi.). The horror of some! Huge shiny needle in the heart of the city. I hope someone has a better plan when they decided to put a monument in honor of the Millennium.

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.

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.

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.

Coin with a face of Jesus ... released before Christmas - Part 3

STUDENT IN ANCIENT TOWN (continued, part 3) I went back to the hotel in the afternoon and was soon fast asleep. In the morning I again went to the Old Town, this time I had two objectives. The first - Mount of Olives in the east of the city, the second - my campus. To not go into details on the information obtained from my university, I could only register a few days, but I just wanted to look at the town and see what's there and how. It's good that I visited this idea. It turned out that the registration was held on the day of my visit and the next day, and classes began the next day. But I went in there just by chance. That's what "timely". But it was all day. In the morning, after breakfast, which consisted of falafel (the Arabic dish, fried balls of string beans or chickpeas, approx. Perevi.) And water, I went to the Old City, Mount of Olives. This is another important place for all Christians, as the legend says that this is where Jesus spent his last night. It is believed that the Garden of Gethsemane at the base of the mountain. Today, far from the place is a chapel. The entrance to the garden is allowed, but only at certain times. On the mountain is also a Jewish cemetery. Go to the top of the mountain are several roads, and any of them can be reached by car or on foot. I prefer walking. In fact, the Mount of Olives - a hill rather than a mountain, is also not a very steep hill. Along the way you'll meet several viewing platforms, with a magnificent view of the Temple Mount and Dome of the Rock.

Photography in the Brazilian bird nursery - part 1

PARADISE for parrots and elusive KOLIBRI Liz and Elloree Gaskin Payne, United Kingdom Yeah-ah! As well, when sleep enough ... but that's a tree next to our window is living some kind of bird, and from her so much noise! Her voice sounds like a cat given LSD (d-lysergic diethylamide acid, a potent psychotropic drug, approx. Perevi.), Then told her that her hunting dog, tied to her eyes, shave, drink a few times and thrown against the wall. In general, we could only sleep until 8:00 am, which was quite bearable. My wife Liz, who has never suffered a lack of sense of humor, compassionate earnestly expressed full confidence that the air rifles from time to time Brazilian hotels are not issued. Red ibis On the thirteenth day at 8 o'clock in the morning we again woke up a bird that during this time we have successfully replaced the alarm clock. The night before, a couple kaypirinyas (popular Brazilian cocktail, approx. Perevi.), We agreed to go to a bird nursery, and then the second half of the day to get to the waterfalls. (This is the Iguassu Falls and the park of exotic birds in the Brazilian city of Foz Iguazu. Ca. Ed.) Bus that takes you there (route number 120) stops right next to our hotel, which, I must say, very convenient ! Flamingo Before leaving we had lunch. I'm not particularly surprised when we were served a ham and cheese on a plate ... again. I usually from a position of moral superiority simply refused to touch the pieces of dead flesh, but that Liz has to deal with my bad mood when I'm hungry.

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.

Photography in the Brazilian bird nursery - part 3

PARADISE for parrots and elusive KOLIBRI (continued, part 3) After a while we caught the eye of the pavilion with the inscription "Butterflies". "Aha!" - We thought. - Here's where you can make some great pictures! "We went inside and saw a large, I mean, very big beautiful blue butterflies. They do not flit here and there, like crazy English cabbage, which allegedly do not understand where they are and look for cabbage in the air. No! These butterflies flap their wings once or twice and the rest of the way soar. They're so big! Are the same as if I put two hands together and tried to depict a butterfly. Such are they huge! They glided smoothly through the air and seemed to land is not going, so pictures have turned out not so much. Peacock While we watched the large blue butterflies, I suddenly heard a loud "brrrrr" and something flashed next to my head, like radio-controlled helicopter. I even bent down and asked: "Is that still a thing?" One does not wanted to have my head rammed baby Motrya (kaiju, monster, a giant butterfly from Japanese comic books and horror films, ca. Perevi.). Liz said that, most likely, it was a hummingbird. Of course, I heard about these legendary creatures, but never thought that I have an opportunity to see them. These birds are quite rare, in addition, they are terribly fast and small. Even if you are lucky enough to hear a bird, it does not mean that you're lucky even more, and you will see it!

It could make a film about Mowgli

ANCIENT Lost City, and in it the largest church When we speak of Angkor, in my mind always floats misty image of the ancient civilizations. This lost city - one of the most important historical sites in Asia and the largest city-temple in the world. Angkor is located in Southeast Asia, the territory of the modern state of Cambodia, directly near the town of Siem Reap, in 309 km from Phnom Penh. The so-called "Lost City" of Angkor has been detected in 1860 and in 1992 became part of UNESCO World Heritage Site, since in the city are working to conserve it. The temple of Angkor Wat Ancient City covers an area of ??400 square meters. kilometers, which includes a large area covered by forest. In this dense forest are ancient Khmer ruins - the remains of several empires that existed during the period from IX to XI century. The most important archaeological monuments are Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and the Bayon temple. These Khmer temples are located in two groups. Some people in the area Roluoh, 186 km east of Siem Ripa. Here you can look at the earliest sacred buildings, as this area was the first capital of the Khmer Angkor. In IX century the capital was moved ruler Yashovarmanom I. Lost city of Angkor temples over a thousand, ranging from the common blocks and ruins scattered throughout the rice fields, and ending with the majestic temple of Angkor Wat, which is perhaps the world's largest sacral building. It is composed entirely of stone and dates from the XII century.

A country where two calendars and two ways of calculating time - part 2

MADNESS ON FARANDZHI (continued, p.2) to Gondar are many famous historical buildings, including the royal palace. An area of ??6,500 sq ft are numerous castles and palaces built in the XVII century, when Emperor Fasiladas founded a new capital, Gondar, which was known as the African Camelot. The royal palace recently restored, and today it looks amazing. At the Palace much open space. Hence, a great view of the mountains and the nearby eucalyptus grove. Baths Fasiladasa Another attraction of Gondar - Fasiladasa baths. This is a huge rectangular swimming pool, the size is much greater than the Olympic standard. In the middle of the pool is a remarkable structure, which is usually considered a second residence Fasiladasa. Here everything is permeated with calm, even similar to snake tree roots that have sprouted through the stone walls. Unfortunately, we were not very lucky - when we were there, just going restoration work. During the celebration Timkata (baptism in the Ethiopian, approx. Perevi.) Pool filled with water, which brought over 500 kilometers. To fill it takes about a month. Crowds of people rush into the pool and begins the ceremony, which follows the baptism of Christ in the Jordan River. Timkat is a symbol of renewal of faith. Church of Debre Berhan Selassie Church Debre Berhan Selassie became one of the latest attractions that we visited in Gondar. The church of looting crowds of Sudanese dervishes in the 80 years of the last century has saved a swarm of bees that attacked the invaders and drove them.

Coin with a face of Jesus ... released before Christmas - Part 4

STUDENT IN ANCIENT TOWN (continued, part 4) The next day, nothing special happened. In the morning I moved from the hotel to dormitory. For some time I spent on it to get to know the campus and the area where I am now going to live. I have found that close to the market, several restaurants and anything else interesting. The town is located in the eastern part of Jerusalem, and almost all shops and restaurants - in downtown. This is about a half of walking or 10 minutes by bus. On campus you can see the West Bank and even the Jordanian border. Although they are quite far away. I have not managed to find a shop where you could buy a bed linen and pillow. We find that the hostel is not issued. We had to stuff his bag of things and use it as a pillow, a leather jacket I used instead of blankets. I knew that sooner or later it will be useful to me. Urn to the ancient relics must say that life here is quite different from life in Cairo. In Cairo, complete security checkpoints, but officers do not usually pay attention to the metal detectors and searching things do not often (except in the Egyptian Museum). In Israel, the same security very seriously, although they have at it pretty good reasons. Tower of David One of the advantages of living in Israel are overflowing with merchandise alcoholic beverage stores. On their shelves, I saw all kinds of beverages, of whom I have ever heard. Incidentally, in the local supermarkets also sell alcohol. While in the store at the hostel Alcoholic Beverages Division and not very big, the prices there are much higher than we have in the U.S..

Coin with a face of Jesus ... released before Christmas - Part 2

STUDENT IN ANCIENT TOWN (continued, p.2) It should be noted that the streets and byways of the Old City to get lost very easily. Old Town is more like a maze of souvenir shops. But still interesting to walk on it and try to imagine those who walked these same streets to you. During my first visit to the Old City several times I got lost. After studying the map I was sure that entered the city through the New Gate. A few hours walk, visiting the temple of the Holy Sepulchre, lost a few more times, I still managed to find their way to the gate through which I entered. Al hamdu Lilla! (Arabic for "Praise be to Allah!", Approx. Perevi.). Believe me, my fault it was not. The entrance to the temple of the Holy Sepulcher Holy Sepulcher - the place itself is very interesting, moreover, is one of the most important places for Christians in the Old City. Many believers think that the temple stands on the very spot where Christ was crucified. This tradition lives since Helena, mother of Roman Emperor Constantine, who in the IV century, traveled to the Eastern Roman Empire in search of relics. (Helen was ardent supporter of Christian teaching.) Somehow she came to the conclusion that here is a place of Christ's crucifixion, and ordered him to build a temple here. Historians in the majority believed that the temple is not built on the spot where the crucifixion took place, although no one has sufficient data to establish the truth. The place where the temple does not fit any description of the place of widespread executions of Christ, nor in the general concept of the crucifixion as a whole.

Shocking dinner in Vietnam - Part 5

SPECIALTIES - COBRA (continuation, p.5) As soon as the next glass is half filled, he tore off one of the serpentine bodies (which - I do not know), and squeezed to the same liquid, similar to the bile. Then he raised his glasses, put them before us and made a gesture of his bloodied hand, offering us to drink it. Within seconds we sat in silence, staring at the glasses. I'm sick with disgust cheekbones. Honda, Hung and I exchanged uncertain glances nervously pohihikali ... and drank. It was thick. Warm. Disgusting. The old man smiled approvingly when we drank the blood. Then, without warning, he again slipped his strong arm in the body of a snake, but this time deeper. With the awful squish it tore the heart and threw it into the empty glass standing in the middle of the table. We are stunned and disgusted look on it as the heart continues to beat in the glass. The old man went with what was left of a cobra and a few minutes later returned with the beer. We are hard drinking and his disingenuous scoffed at our unusual aperitif and still beating heart. Over the next two hours the old man always appeared with different dishes and snakes. They were all surprisingly tasty. First there was the grilled meat with vegetables. Then we were served soup and rolls snake eggs and chowder, where swimming snake vertebrae. We also tried the ribs, fried with ginger and rice crackers. And finally, a good fried snake skin, the taste is a bit like fried pork skin, if you so ever eaten. I note that it was one of my best dinners for the whole journey.

Shocking dinner in Vietnam - Part 6

SPECIALTIES - COBRA (the ending, Part 6) When we are all eaten all, the old man got up to us, and we were asked to score. To our surprise, he shook his head, smiled and pointed at the heart of the snake, which is still slowly beat in the glass. Then he made another gulp, as in the time when we drank the blood. We sat in silence for a few seconds, alarmed and confused. Then the old man approached the table, took the glass, and slowly pushed it to Hung, who was sitting in the middle. The room was silence. I looked at each other and the Honda across the table, quietly triumphant, at the time, as Hung sorry looked at heart. And suddenly he jumped up from his desk and grabbed a glass. He sighed deeply, looked at us with an expression of desperate courage in the face, and ... threw a glass with a heart in the open window. And then ran like a madman, past the old man down the stairs. Honda, I'm an old man exchanged startled glances and burst out laughing. We drank our beer Honda, paid, thanked the old man and went downstairs. Stopped briefly to gaze at the deceptively empty cage with cobras, passed through the bedroom and found the old man on the street. The air was hot, but it is much fresher than in a stuffy dining room. It was a feeling that we left the theater after a two-hour movie. We have found Hung near his moped. He looked confused, but happy. We drove back to Hanoi. Cobra was the last thing I ate in Vietnam, before going back to Bangkok. Now I sit in a small shabby restaurant with views of the Chao Phraya River.

Shocking dinner in Vietnam - Part 4

SPECIALTIES - COBRA (continued, part 4) Dining room looked awful. Four ugly wooden chair covered with worn dark red cape, stood around the old pine table. Lousy chipped plates and cheap plastic cups cast shadows on the wall that was once white but now shabby and became dark gray. The room was terribly cracked concrete floor and only one small window overlooking the alley. The only decoration was a large poster of the seventies with the image of the mustachioed cowboy Marlboro and the inscription: "Come to where the flavor." Once we were seated, the old Vietnamese simply shook cobra from a bag on the floor in front of us. She started crawling at lightning speed in my direction. I was terribly frightened, and jumped, hoping to hide from her behind her chair. Can consider me a dummy, but if the old man had caught a snake by the tail, I would have grabbed my puny friend Hung and would use them as human shields. The owner began to tease the cobra, who angrily hissed in response, and several times threw at him. In my heart I was hoping that the snake bite old man, that would be my story became even more interesting. After the Vietnamese several times narrowly escaped the deadly jaws of a cobra, he is with the dexterity of a young man made a sharp jump, was behind the snake and grabbed the animal by the tail and began swinging it over our heads. Then he snapped the snake on the floor, and her head with a loud crunch hit the concrete. While we were stunned with the guys looked at each other, the old man took out his belt a long serrated knife.

Wild America - The bears and geysers - part 2

The unique nature of Yellowstone National Park (continued, p.2) On the third day we drove to the canyon. This part of the park is located on a hill, and there is still covered with snow. Due to snow most of the roads out of the canyon until now have been closed, but obeying some momentary impulse, we decided to drive another 2 miles ahead on the closed section of road. At the end of a winding stretch of road were parked a few cars, we slowed down and realized that people were watching from the windows at a huge grizzly bear. The mighty beast was quite far, but we managed it well see. The next half hour we watched the bear, which wandered around in search of something edible. Then we continued on our way to look at the Lower and Upper Yellowstone Falls, which are at the top of the Grand Canyon. And here's a bear! On the way back to the tent camp, we saw another bear, who was feasting on someone's remains. Hard to say, was a grizzly or black bear, but we have not thought about it, because the mood was excellent, overall a good day. The next day we went for a walk in the area of ??Hot Springs Mammoth Hot Springs. First, we went the route Rescue Creek Trail, it stretches 8 miles. Alas, we have not mastered the whole distance. At first walk was quite pleasant, although the old skeletons, who met us on the road, and the knowledge that somewhere nearby are wandering beasts, were not allowed to fully relax. In the end, we're a little scared and turned back after about an hour away.

There are a lot of donkeys, but you can meet friends - part 2

ISLAND WITHOUT ROAD (continued, p.2) In a restaurant, like almost all restaurants on the island, seafood accounted for most of the menu. I'm not really that happy, because I can not bear to eat the inhabitants of the ocean, but the rest are very inspired at the sight of giant crabs for $ 5, caught just a couple of minutes ago. Donkey After dinner we decided to go and look for a suitable bar, where they could whip or two. It turned out that it is not so easy on the island had only a few pubs, which sell alcoholic beverages. On the other hand, on an island full of asses, and their excreta. According to one of the locals here just a couple of cars, and almost no roads, so any move either on foot or on donkeys. Oh, those asses! He's just everywhere! Most of the way I looked at the road straight ahead, trying not to plunge into the traces of life these solipeds. As I saw later, when the sun rose here every step is fraught with such danger. Joe took us to the bar, which was located on the roof. He found it the day before. This guy ran a bar with large dreads (traditional Jamaican hairstyle rastamanov, approx. Perevi.), And his name was Satan. That's right, Satan. Local hot rod We're a little drunk before retired to their hotels. It turned out that all stopped in different places, it is not surprising since arrived on the island at different times. Me and Joe got into the boat and swam to our hotel, which was on the other side of the island, in the town of Shela. It turned out that night Scheele rush occurs, and wade straight into the darkness across the island, where roads and some do not, dare not every tourist.

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.

Yoga tours around the world

There are a lot of donkeys, but you can meet friends - part 3

ISLAND WITHOUT ROAD (continued, part 3) In the morning they packed up their bags and returned to the mainland, and I decided it was time to move to the town of Lamu, because I'm tired of every time boaters to pay exorbitant prices. I decided to stay at the hotel, which has already stopped Prasanna, but unfortunately, he was going to go from there. He offered to fly to Zanzibar, and such an offer he could not refuse. Over lunch I met with Maria, Soren and Tanya. As it turned out, they were moving in the opposite direction, that is, moving from Lamu in the peeling to spend a couple of days. In general, I was left all alone, in principle, it was a good thing, because I'm still going to climb hills and take pictures a bit. In the hills the way I went about four o'clock in the afternoon, trying to find their way to the hills before they sit the sun. With the breakwater could not see them, so I had to offhand estimate the distance to them from my hotel, and then random paths, making their way to the center of the island. I soon came to the building of the local primary school, the sun began to set. (And why I left Shelah?) In the field, which was located behind the school, I finally found a reason the first of the hills which were visible from the hotel. I quickly got up at him and was surprised to find that from the top overlooking the sandy dunes, who went as far as the eye to the center of the island. Climb up the steep sandy slope I managed without much difficulty. The rains here are quite common and well-tamped sand.

Picturesque Santa Fe: City of charms in every season

The ruins of Hampi, injustice and thick beggars - Part 7

Grand Hamp and interesting people (the ending, p.7) The next two days I spent in Hampi, erasing things and re-packing my backpack. I decided to sort things and decide what can be left to a bit of his ease. After the inventory could move on. Summing up the results of my stay, I can assure you that calm and tranquil village of Hampi - the perfect place to stay for about two days and explore the surrounding area. The only thing that I did not like - child beggars, who are constantly begging for money. These children, judging by their appearance, well fed and their clothes look better than mine, but they still continued to beg. I think Hampi - a perfect place for such studies because here often come in buses, is packed full of tourists who do not hesitate to hand out fines left and right. All of this ultimately is bad for other tourists who are beggars against the grain, like me. But this is India. Me once approached a stout woman in a beautiful sari and started asking for money. I told her that she was better me than I dressed, and if someone also needs to eat, so it's me. She missed this tirade on deaf ears. "Yes-a-aa ... What can you do?" - As they say the Indians. But in all fairness, the money that we give to beggars, will not solve the problem, but for many of them our donations are an easy source of income. But this is only my point of view, and everyone is entitled to have an opinion on this matter. Bathing Lakshmi after 5 days in Hampi, I again hit the road again to the north.

The heart of ancient Rome

Snacks, locks and biblical scenes - part 5

Unfinished SYRIA AND PRACTICAL JORDAN (continued, part 5) Tuesday about two hours we reached the Castle of Salah ad-Din. While traveling in Syria can be seen that the roads here are pretty good, but no road signs where they should be. For example, near a busy road junctions. But even more striking debris scattered along the roads. United Kingdom - not the cleanest place in the world, but in Syria, the amount of rubbish along the roads has become just a biblical scale. Even in fields where something grows, the land is dotted with plastic bags. I even thought that one of the fields in bloom some small plants. On closer examination, the flowers were fragments of packets. Our guide explained that people still do not think that should look like the countryside, and in order that they begin to worry about it, it will take some time. I think a lot of time. Man-made canyon near the castle of Salah ad-Din ride on the roads of Syria is not so bad, though, we have recently returned from India, so we know exactly what is "inept driving. The driver of our bus was quite sensible and careful. We even applauded him after he was backing up at a decent speed traveled about 500 meters up the hill. Unfortunately, his reputation was slightly damaged when it is, again, the rear gear, drove into a car that was parked in an empty parking lot near the restaurant. Naturally, the hapless "Schumacher" very upset. Restaurant where we dined, was worthy of great praise for a good menu of delicious snacks.

Exotic ancient tribe of Aborigines under the blows of civilization and the rebels - part 4

VENEZUELA: Adventures in Amazonia (continued, part 4) When we reached the village, it seemed, all of its residents came out to greet us with their spears in their hands, their faces expressed mixed feelings. Later we learned that they are not to come out to greet us, they waited for the arrival of another tribe that supposedly was going to fight them. From history that we were told, it followed that one man from the village stole three girls from another village, one of them was married. The reason for such a desperate act was that the village lacked women, because every man can have four or even five wives, so the kidnapping - a fairly common practice among local tribes. And there were rumors that the men of the tribe of wronged come to seek revenge, and I have no doubt that it will happen. Thousands of years these people lived like soldiers, and it stayed in their blood. Jody with a little man from another village Yanomami for time spent in the village, we were able to see the hut, and even school gardens, to which he had to go half an hour into the rainforest. Young men living in the village, led us to the border gardens. By the way, they often stayed and painted our faces red vegetable dye. The fact that we have so warmly accepted in their village - a great honor for the tourist. In the evening we went to a few huts, and then it became clear that these people have to survive in very small amounts of food. It looks like hunters on the day they caught nothing. Arriving on their own land to hunt, they were disappointed because the militants Vooruzhennye Revolutionary Forces of Colombia ordered them to leave.

Where to go in May

Interview with Alfonso - part 2

SEX TOURISM ON-The Gambia (continued, part 2) Some time ago I read an interesting article which referred to "Interview with a sex tourist." It told of sex tourism in the Philippines, the men's version of what is happening in the Gambia. Then I felt like myself to write something in the same vein. But I have a one problem: if the author had the opportunity to talk to, so to say, man to man, with one of the sex tourists. The fact that they were both the same sex, to create some atmosphere of complicity, which I achieved was impossible, because there are all sex tourists were female. Remnants of chivalry did not allow me to approach one of these older women, and ask: "Excuse me, you came here because you are in despair?" No, I had to find another way. Occasion presented itself for a few days later. I was walking along the beach Kololi, which though not one of the wonders of the world, but clearly deserves attention. On the day he was absolutely empty. Of course there was not a season, and of course, bars and hotels travelers can always be found. Excellent mood during my solitary walks along the wide beach of white sand and decorated with coconut palms, gradually began to disappear as a result of constant raids of entire crowds of annoying the local citizens of various colors and with different "speeches," which they tirelessly "to recite." An hour later I was definitely sure that my feet will never not be on this beach. I stopped to rest in the shade of a palm tree when I was approached by the most recent and most persevering "reciter" on behalf of Ibrahim.

Interview with Alfonso - part 1

SEX TOURISM ON-Gambian Marco Dapril, Italy Gambia joined a few thousand kilometers of its territory all the advantages and disadvantages of newly independent Africa. On the one hand, due to the attractiveness of white sand beaches and colorful markets it is trying to develop the tourism industry, on the other hand, she seems unable to complete at least one ongoing projects, including those undertaken by a repressive dictatorship. This can be seen immediately after crossing the border with Senegal. There, customs officers wear uniforms and efficiently (by African standards) perform their duties. On the other side of the border customs officers dressed in shabby shape, without any insignia or simply in civilian clothes. Any contact with them, those who had the misfortune to be born with white skin, without fail ends moving a certain number of bills from his wallet to wallet officer. Countries in which the rule of dictatorial regimes, notorious for the fact that foreigners are treated very well as long as they stay away from domestic policy. Cuba, China and the former Soviet Union, Iraq under Saddam Hussein - are all examples of dictators who abused police powers to create a clearly false paradise for tourists (built in spite of the civil rights of local populations). But not in Africa. Here, people do not care who is in power, and a political system in the country: the colonial, democratic or a dictatorship. Natural African passivity allows historic buildings and railways to fall apart, but with tyrants, it does the same thing.

Exotic ancient tribe of Aborigines under the blows of civilization and the rebels - part 2

VENEZUELA: Adventures in Amazonia (continued, p.2) On the fourth day of our trip we found ourselves in the place resembled the set. But the events happening around us, were quite real, and a sense of danger gave a special poignancy of the situation. We arrived in a very small town called San Fernando. The temptation to take pictures of the neighborhood was very high, but the camera will no doubt be taken immediately, so that the picture only stayed in my memory. In this city a lot of different things, and it was easy to guess what this place. This part of the Amazon basin is rich in minerals, especially gold. And here, close to National Park Cerro Yapakana, conducted his illegal mining. We were told that the National Park live and work about four thousand illegal workers. Such excavations causing great damage to the nature of the Amazon, as work is carried out on large areas, and after a fossil in the deposit is completely exhausted, the land remains a huge gaping hole. In addition, workers are using outdated methods, among them, and mercury. Mercury enters the environment in two ways. The first - from the bottom of the river sediment is taken, and several passes through a sieve. Mesh these gnehitryh tools covered with mercury, which separates the gold from other substances, which leads to precipitation. Thus, some amount of mercury remains in the soil and waste into the environment, together with the substances screened out. The second way - the mixture is heated to mercury has evaporated, and the remaining gold.

Interview with Alfonso - part 3

SEX TOURISM ON-The Gambia (continued, part 3) Here is a summary of our conversation. Ibrahim: You're a journalist? Marco: No, but I'm no less curious than the laziest journalist, besides, no one pays me for my notes. Q: From the police? M: I like a cop? Q: Not all cops are like cops. M: Yeah, right. But I'm not a cop. I could not be. Q: Why could not? M: Because the officer must be either completely honest or completely dishonest. Q: And you're not completely honest? M: I am flexible. Q: Then you work for an NGO? M: NGOs? Volunteer? I? You're kidding. I can hardly stand the thought of what to work for wages, not to mention the fact that doing something for free. In general, I planned that I will be asking questions, and not vice versa. If allowed to go, then you have to pay me. Banjul My companion made a short pause, and again went into action. Q: Okay, let's begin. Advance? M: Well, yes ... run away. First, tell me an interesting story, and then get their 500 Dalasi. Q: Let's 800. M: Let's 200. Ibrahim laughed. He stretched out his arm with his fist towards me and then put it to her chest. Q: Okay, boss, 500. M: Let's begin. You are from the Gambia? Q: Yes. M: Folk? And: Mandinka. M: Age? And: 28. M: How long have you been to "work" here in Senegambia? And: 6 years. M: Good pay? Q: Fairly well. M: How good? And (smiling): More than 500 Dalasi per day. M (smiling): I like people with a sense of humor. On the other hand, I am confident that with customers of another kind you would have spent much more energy.

Strange dreams of ancient cities - part 5

Salvation PAST EGYPT (continued, part 5) The desert looks empty and uninviting, and at the same time, it looked strangely beautiful. The first part of the trip took place on the completely flat portion of the desert. In the end, flat sands gave way to picturesque conical tops, which seemed to have grown out of the sand and the size of a great pyramid. I sat and thought that perhaps this is the lost civilization of the ancient pyramids, and then my neighbor slightly nudged me with his elbow and made my thoughts out loud! After countless military checkpoint, 140 miles of roads in the Sahara sands, and a flea crossing the Tropic of Cancer, we arrived in a small, no noticeable town of Abu Simbel. Our driver told us what time we should go back to the minibus, and we went every man to his side. I was lucky, I managed to get ahead of a large group of tourists who traveled on trips, so that it took to get to the place, it took me a few minutes. As I suspected, the guards forced thousands of tourists to descend to the temples of Abu Simbel at the same time, it was not very good. I decided that if I ever get back here, then stay for the night in the city and look at the temples before arriving convoy. Abu Simbel I walked through the crowd of tourists who wander near the entrance waiting for their guide, walked around a large artificial mound, which suddenly appeared in my path. The first time I saw one of the finest ancient monuments that I have ever seen in my life. A huge temple built by Ramses II, stood in front of me on the shore of Lake Nasser.

And the little people without weapons - not the people

The most exciting posters about plants and wildlife (as advertising)

How to make friends with the Tajik border guards - Part 1

Misadventures in KHOROG Drew Prineas, UK I am not hurrying back from a walk in a botanical garden, occupying second place in the world by height above sea level. I wanted to quickly get to his hotel in a small town called Pamir Khorog. Everything was fine until I saw four Tajik soldiers who marched across the bridge over a river. Khorog Gouron is the capital of Badakhshan, located on the border with Afghanistan. The city is located in a valley that is surrounded by four mountain peaks, and shares the river flowing between. This picturesque place is situated in a rather inhospitable parts of the world. Child in Khorog Tajikistan gained independence in 1991 after the collapse of the Soviet Union. But in 1992-1997. the country's civil war broke out, which was a repetition of the events 70 years ago, when there were large-scale battle with the Soviets basmachs. This time the warring parties were based in Dushanbe and the Gorno-Badakhshan region, which tends to become an independent Islamic state. At this point he had already received the status of autonomy. If you come here with the Tajik credit card, you know - here not accept it. To travel to the Gorno-Badakhshan need a special permit is issued in the Tajik Local Police Department. Khorog war in Afghanistan has affected the development of the region. In a short time in Khorog open university. Many locals dress in European style, and it seems that Tajikistan is forever gone from the customs of the nomadic tribes. But it only seems that way.

Wonderful world of animals on islands in the Pacific Ocean - Part 2

Galapagos Islands - a priceless impressions of the trip (continued, p.2), I sat at the docks a couple of hours thinking about whether the decision I made. The money was already spent, which meant that I could not afford something from what was going to do here. Maybe I still have largely changed their opinion after a few days. Maybe this will be the best thing that happened to me (well, at least in the top five). And maybe I really am not so cold, I thought meeting at the docks, 18:00 Fifteen people have disappeared in the gloom, barely hearing the cry of a guide with "Angelica." I signed up so late for the tour, they did not even know that there will be another person. It turns out I missed the first part of the tour - visiting the hills and sightseeing in the center of Charles Darwin. But I'm not too disappointed, considering that I'm strangely spent the morning walking with Julian and Dave. Now I had to see the giant Galapagos tortoises, including Lonesome George - the last of the kind of risk to remain without progeny. Guide by the name of Neil made inquiries about the weather, and I was ready to bet that everything will go smoothly. Finally, we all climbed into the rocking "Angelica" to dine. It was just that what I was hoping to see it - a rough and simple. That's just me almost immediately began seasickness. "Angelica" The dinner was a great opportunity to get acquainted with everyone, and I found out that I will share a cabin with an incredibly charming Polish girl of middle age.

Elephant Festival in India

CELEBRATION OF ELEPHANT FESTIVAL TRISSUR Pooram April 17, 2008 Trissur, Kerala, India, Samuel Lobe Each year, tens of thousands of people gather in the Indian city of Trissur (Kerala) to witness the procession of elephants, which lasts 36 hours. By a fluke I was passing nearby, when they told me about this extravagant festival. Locals warmed my interest in paint describing this event and the telling of a magnificent spectacle, which represent hundreds of elephants, collected in one place. I decided to visit the Trissur Pooram. The history of the holiday starts more than two hundred years ago. It is believed that King spent his first Sakthan, who ruled in the city of Kochi in the late eighteenth century. Trissur Pooram festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. Here are various temples, which, in turn, make his own show. The most famous and impressive presentation held at the Temple of Krishna in Thiruvanbadi and the Temple of the goddess Devi in ??Paramekkavu. Throughout the day, elephants are a beautiful blanket beneath the Temple Vadakumnatha. All of them resemble the temple walls, inlaid with gold and painted in bright colors. On the backs of these mighty animals half-naked men rhythmically rotate around its axis, carrying a glittering and iridescent rainbow umbrellas. Approximately every two minutes the music becomes harder, and all the men on elephants, straightened to his full height and shaking white pompoms. In addition to all these men behind the backs of elephants are people with big round panels, painted in incredible colors.

All covered with green, absolutely all - part 1

BEACH, RIVER, a pack of dogs and Minister of Culture of the Fiji Islands Ruth and Jason Scotland after a short flight just after sunset we landed in Nadi. The first thing that caught my attention was the scent that hung in the air. He was like a combination of fried food, cut grass and flowers, and I decided not to close the window in the car on the way to our hotel, which was on the Coral Coast. We stayed in a traditional Fijian home "storm" that looked like a big wooden hut. Unfortunately, the weather we are not spoiled, and all 3 days we spent there was rain and it was overcast, so we spent at the beach just one hour. But we managed to ride the horses. Cost is quite inexpensive - about 6 pounds per hour. Horse riding, I went to Jason and our guide. We drove along the beach, then along the road, went to a village and went to another beach. We let the horses canter, but it hurt his feet much, because we had no special shoes, no pants. On the feet were large bruises and abrasions on their saddles, but gallop a gallop along the beach is worth the minor inconvenience! We decided to go to one of the islands in the hope that the weather there is better, and chose the island of Mana. Fijian housing storm We caught a car and went back to Nadi, there to sit on a small boat that takes us in the morning on the island. Upon arrival we were met by the entire staff of the hotel, they all went out to meet us and we sang a little song about his island. We had a very modest room with a small fan, but this was not so hot as in Thailand, so we have enough as well.

The beach, which do not eat crabs - Part 1

Unique island of Socotra Viadzhirong Pina, the U.S. aircraft company, Felix Airways "took off from Sanaa (capital of Yemen, approx. Perevi.) At seven o'clock in the morning. Hands-free land is not declared, I just went for a group of Czech tourists, when they went to the departure lounge. When everyone stood up, I too got to his feet. To my luck, I got on the plane you want me to. On my ticket reads "Felix", and on the luggage tag - "Yemen". This is weird. We made a stop in the city Muhalla that in the Hadramaut (historical region in the south of the Arabian Peninsula, ca Perevi.) And then flew on Socotra. In flight, they gave us a terrible sandwich and water. Most of the flight I slept. Last night I could not sleep, apparently, did his job category (an evergreen shrub whose leaves are used for chewing, approx. Perevi.)! When we arrived on Socotra, I was still asleep. I woke up, and all have already started to leave the aircraft. The weather was fine: overcast, but the sun did peek out from behind the clouds. Ali, my driver, waited for me near the conveyor belt for luggage. He was glad to see me, to the same guy is not bad spoke in English. We waited for my backpack and left the airport building. View of the beach from the main road trip to the city Hadibo was excellent. Waves at the sea sparkled in the sun and have a nice bright blue color! Beauty! We stopped near the place where the trees grew bottle. I took a few pictures, and we continued our way.

In the footsteps of your favorite DJ - Part 3

Kiev and Kharkov: HORSE AND DANCE (continued, part 3) Day 6 Kharkiv - Kyiv, 10 hours on the train I was very tired and slept very well all night. The train was late by 20 minutes. I have not booked a hotel room, but still went straight there. There I waited a half hour reception, she was off somewhere. Very sorry, but in a room no TV, no shower. Shower is somewhere on the floor, I think so. Monument to the founders of Kiev I decided to take a walk through the parks and go to Kiev-Pechersk Lavra. I started with Kreshchatik, the main street, and, above all, went to Independence Square (Independence Square), which was quite a beautiful place with great sites, shopping center, benches, statues and fountains. This is just one of those places that make Kiev Kiev. On the walk took me 6 hours. That's my whole trip: Metro Independence Square - the European area - Khreshchatyk - City Garden - Constitution Square - Mariinsky park - the Arsenal area - Ivan Mazepa Street - Alley of Heroes - a memorial to the victims of Holodomor - the Kiev-Pechersk Lavra - Naberezhne highway - Heroes' Square of the Great Patriotic War - Vydubitsky street - Vydubitsky Monastery - the Central Botanical Garden, and thence by bus to the hotel. I noticed that during my second visit, the distance seemed to me not so big, and now I was easier to plan the route. Maidan All parks that I visited were spacious, with large areas of forest that are not often seen in other large cities. At times I have seen the Dnieper, bridges, and modern houses on the other side.

Cruise around the northern lands - part 1

All covered with green, absolutely all - part 2

BEACH, RIVER, a pack of dogs and Minister of Culture of the Fiji Islands (continued, p.2) The entire last week of our stay we booked a hotel room under the name "Mamochkin Tropic of Capricorn, on the beach Uayloaloa. When we arrived, we entered into his arms herself Mom, she also took us to a room overlooking the sea! The hostess warned us that by 3 o'clock the grand opening of the hotel to come (just think!) Minister of Tourism of the Republic. The hotel will be closed at this time, so we do not have far to go, because the doors will be closed until such time as he will not go away. We took a taxi and went to the store to buy something for dinner, and quickly returned to watch the opening. The Minister was late more than an hour, but none specifically complained about, because he worked free bar! When he finally arrived, hoteliers met his kava. Kava - the traditional Fijian drink, which is made from the root of the hibiscus. Then Mom gave a speech about the importance of good relations to the guests that we liked, because in fact the hotel staff looked slightly annoyed, had only to speak to them! Tourism Minister went round all the tables and spoke to all present. He asked us to campaign travel from Scotland to come to Fiji. So, we can assume that we have become the object, to put economic terms, direct marketing, a joke. Your hosts have arranged a feast for all with plenty of chicken and rice and various other dishes, so we had eaten to satiety. Another was free beer, which is like Jason!

Conquest of the beautiful mountains in a corrupt country - Part 1

The world-famous beach, reliably protected military base

How to spend Christmas in Iceland - Part 1

LAND OF ICE AND FIRE Derek Seto, New Zealand Whoever asked me what I'm going to do for Christmas, I always answered, "Iceland". In response, I usually send goggle. - Is there a chill? - Um, uh ... well, cold. - Why Iceland? Honestly, I still can not answer this question. I guess I just wanted to go somewhere where we could with interest for a few days, and where I had been. So me and came up with a crazy idea about Iceland. And I'm glad that it happened. Ice on the grass traveling by plane airline AyslendEyr, I again realized how wonderful it - to fly airplanes normal company, when you do not try to squeeze money for baggage and in-flight movie show! I decided to watch a documentary film about the musical group "Segur Ros" I think that this is the best Icelandic band. The film tells about free tour of Iceland, in which they set in 2006. During this tour they have played in all sorts of small towns across the country and in various unusual places, such as in the valleys, the old fish processing plant and small eateries. The film shows the remarkable beauty of a quiet rural part of Iceland, and thoughtful music perfectly complements the picture. Now I began to understand that we will see in the next 6 days. We landed in Keflavik, was predictably cool. No wonder that Iceland is the name (which translates Country Ice, ca. Perevi.). But I'm more worried about my ears. Due to inflammation of the sinuses, which does not want to go through, and the flight, I have not heard anything from the conversation with the Australian.

Beaches, manatees and quiet marina - Part 1

Things to do in the besieged hotel, where around a drunken crowd

Capture Carnivals and aquacade Mike and Jess, the couple may have heard about the Mardi Gras in New Orleans or a grand celebration in Rio, but not everyone knows that the carnival is held in the Bolivian city of Oruro. It is true that during a local carnival not throw beads or flowers, and water-filled balloons. A lot of balls with water. And for the most part they fly in girls and young women. And you can plenty of running and shouting "Throw me in, but local Chicos still prefer their girls. Silver Ingot of Potosi It all started when we arrived in Potosi. This city was like a box of glazed flakes with a silver toy at the bottom. True, the toy was not alone. There were thousands of tons of .... They say that 200 years hence was removed 45,000 tons of silver. (See City Teksko: raisin silver capital of Mexico, Ed.) Spaniards, who took the courage and God's blessing to take all the "toys", do not even bother to seek its own, rather they dumped all the "toys" out of the box. Basic work, of course, served local residents, 8 million of whom died without receiving any remuneration for their work. Jess tries to attack the first time when we were traveling by bus on a bumpy road, which is also still under repair, it appears that even the road workers are taking part in a local carnival. Driver of a tanker, which was supposed to deal with dust control, including pumps, as soon as his car drew level with our bus and we were at this time to stop the traffic police.

Practice more often at the oars, life is useful

Extreme, or slow suicide? Part 8.

SPORT, IN THE NAME OF WHICH IS NOT afraid of dying (continued, ch.8) She went back to college, and she always had to take children with them into the audience as well as money for the nurse was not there. Moreover, very often she had not eaten anything all day, giving all children. After receiving a diploma nurses, she found a job at the local jail. "There were some very difficult situations" - says Garvey of those times. Once, while on duty, when the prison was only nursing staff, one of the inmates stab, was damaged right ventricle, the blood gushing from his chest like a geyser. However, none of the nurses had not dared even to approach the accident. Then Harvey sat down beside him and covered his wound with a gauze bandage. While working in a correctional institution Joan met with a pretty lawyer, married him and bore two children. Over time, children began to grow up and slowly began to yourself to take care of themselves and the younger kids, so Garvey an opportunity to learn, to get a lawyer's license. However, her husband said that he would not tolerate the competition within the family, as a result held a regular divorce. Fate had cruelly with Joan Garvey: after so many years devoted selfless caring about children and husbands, she was left alone. And so, in order to support Joan in this difficult period, the elder son asked her parachute jump in tandem with him. Thus began her career in skydiving. Garvey quickly mastered this complicated sport, learn to perform difficult acrobatic stunts.

Jumping on an elastic rope - a centuries-old custom - part 1

Tourist Attractions Ocean coast of Brazil

AN ORIGINAL BRAZIL: FROM EL SALVADOR TO RECIFE E.St.Dzhon Kent, editor, journalist Rumors about the decline, which supposedly reigns throughout Brazil and, in particular, in the city of Salvador, were clearly exaggerated. I passed quite a long distance on foot to clean and sometimes even brilliant streets of Rio, and now I know that stories about the decaying South America, which allegedly suffers torment under economic pressure from developed countries - it is all bull. Early this morning I came out of my luxurious hotel, which is furnished in an old convent building. I was just stunned when he looked over the city in the morning sun. And then I saw an absolutely stunning sight. It was something in between obscene and the divine. I simply fainted when I went past a procession of female drummers dressed in traditional national costumes. And they told me even noticing. And I and they are - almost absolute opposites, both culturally and geographically. In El Salvador, the music is heard everywhere Such opposition is just to create unique journey. For that I came all the way through the state of Pernambuco. Noisy business center of Recife (capital of Pernambuco), and a quiet life on the beach at Porto da Galinas, the colonial splendor of Olinda and endless beach resorts in the north. However, the main feature of my trip were smiles of people, so many smiles, so many that it would not be able to forget. Happiness Pelurino on a high cliff towering over the bay, stretches Pelurino quarter, the colonial center of Salvador, his heart.