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Meet 13 Budget Beach Destinations Around the World in accordance with http://www.bootsnall.com/

While many travelers in the northern hemisphere think of beach season as the months of June, July, and August, the reality is that it’s always beach season somewhere. When snow starts to fall in the north, the beaches of the southern hemisphere are just started to heat up. And in tropical destinations, you can enjoy the sand and surf nearly all year round.

But beach destinations can be pricey. Some are expensive simply due to a higher cost of living or stronger currency, while the price of some is driven by popularity. If you’re looking for a lower cost beach vacation, check out these beach destinations that offer a cheaper experience (once you get there). They may not be the absolute cheapest in the world, but each one offers excellent value for the experience.

Poland

Poland isn’t a place most people would consider for a beach vacation, yet on the northern coast is an area called the Polish Riviera. Along the Baltic coast,you’ll find miles of sandy shores, including some of the biggest sand dunes in Europe, and beach resorts that cost a fraction of the price of their Mediterranean counterparts.

Places such as Sopot, Gdansk, Gdynia or Ustka are some of the best places to spend a beach vacation in the country. Ustka is particularly famous among German tourists (the border is just 250 km away). There are two beaches in Ustka, out of which the Eastern Beach has more facilities, bars and restaurants, as well as a waterfront promenade.

1 US dollar equals 2.89 Polish zloty, which puts dorm rooms in Sopot under $20 US, even in high season. Rooms in Sopot start at £54 per night (double occupancy), while double rooms in seaside hotel in Ustka start at around$65 per night.  Food and drink is equally affordable; a beer won’t set you back more than about $2US and an entree at even the poshest beachfront restaurants is generally under $15, with casual fare much cheaper.

The closest large airport is in Gdansk. It is hub for WizzAir, which offers flights from various large cities in Europe. Ryanair also flies here. If you fly from North America, you’ll have to make as stop in another city, like London or Warsaw, and then continue on a low cost carrier.

>> Book flights to Krakow or read our Poland travel guide

Malta

For years Malta has remained one of the biggest secrets in Europe. It doesn’t get the same attention as France or Italy, but it has its fair share of superb beaches and excellent diving conditions. The island most travelers visit in Malta is Gozo. Aside from the beaches, it also offers historic fortifications and interesting churches.

Dwejra is considered the best beach in Gozo and most travelers come here for the snorkeling, but you’ll also find many travelers just  hanging on the beach soaking up the sun. Gozo’s off-the-radar status helps keep the prices low. Rooms in Gozo start around $50 per night during the summer months.

Malta has its own airport, which is hub for Air Malta and Ryanair.  If you fly from North America, you need to make a stop in London, Amsterdam or Rome, before continuing on a low cost carrier. Alternatively, you can take the ferry from Catania (Italy) or Pozzallo (Italy) to get to Malta.

>> Book flights to Malta

Greece

Greece has been known for years as a cheap beach vacation destination. It has long offered a good alternative to the pricier Italian or French beaches, and has become even cheaper lately thanks to the country’s economic woes.

On the mainland, the entire Halkidiki area is your best bet if you are on a low budget but still want crystal clear water and white sandy beaches. Book your vacation ahead of time (typically by mid-March or April) to get even bigger discounts. If you are looking for cheaper islands, Thassos is a good choice, but so are Zakynthos or Corfu.

Cheap and basic studio accommodation is plentiful in Halkidiki,  Thassos , and Zakynthos, where you can find a room for as little as $7-12US per person.  Eating in Greece is equally cheap, if you go for budget dining. Gyros cost around $3USD while dinner in a taverna can be had for around $10US.

Most of the Greek islands are served by seasonal flights run by various European low cost carriers. Or you can fly into Athens or Thessaloniki and then take a domestic flight or a ferry to the island of your choice.

>> Book flights to Athens or read about beaches in Greece

Portugal

Portugal shares Europe’s Iberian Peninsula with Spain, and competes with its neighbor, as well as Italy and France, when it comes to beach destinations. Like those other countries, it also offers excellent regional cuisine, several regions for wine tasting, and a diverse landscape that ranges from rocky cliffs to white sand beaches to verdant valleys to rolling plains.

The Algarve, with its beautiful beaches and picturesque coastline, is Portugal’s most popular vacation destination and offers a variety of choices from built-up (and more crowded) beaches lined with resorts to secluded slices of sand that you may have to work a bit harder to reach. The island of Madeira is also a good choice, especially since you can travel here year round and still enjoy the sun and the sea.

Beach accommodation in a single room in a guesthouse can be had for 20 euros or less in many towns of the Algarve, and, like elsewhere in Portugal, food and drink is a bargain when compared to the costs of neighboring Spain. A glass of port or local wine can be found for about two euros and a platter of fresh local fish is generally under 10 euros.

Many major airlines and low cost European carriers fly into Portugal. If you fly from North America, you’ll most like land in Lisbon. And from there you can take a domestic flight to the desired destination. If you are already in Europe, you can fly into plenty other smaller airports; Faro is one of the most popular of them.

>> Book flights to Portugal or learn more about beaches in Portugal

Bulgaria

Located on the shores of the Black Sea, Bulgaria offers a cheaper and warmer beach destination than its neighbor, Romania. It’s just as cheap as Greece’s low cost resorts and is also a good alternative to the Turkish Riviera.

Albena, Balchik, Nessebar and Sunny Beach are good options for those on a low budget. There are some sights to see in Varna and Balchik, but, in general, all these resorts offer the typical sun, sand and partying experience, on a smaller budget.

Accommodation in Albena starts at less than 30 Bulgarian lev, or about $20US in 2 star hotels, breakfast included. In Nessebar, rooms start at just over $10US per night  in 2 star hotels.  Dining and drinking are just as inexpensive, with a good dinner for two with glasses of wine available for under $20 US; a beer will set you back less than a buck in most places.

You can fly into either Sofia or Varna and then travel by car or bus to one of the resorts. Varna is closer to the Black Sea Coast but flights to Varna are usually expensive. Alternatively you can fly into Bucharest and then take a bus to one of the resorts.

>> Find airfare to Sofia or read our Bulgaria travel guide

Dominican Republic

Located in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic has always been known as a cheap beach paradise. For those who want to spend a vacation on the sandy beaches but don’t want to burn holes in their pockets in places such as Bahamas, Aruba or the USVI, the Dominican Republic is an excellent choice. Play in the surf on sandy beaches fringed by lush jungle, or get more active with surfing lessons, jungle wildlife tours, or hiking excursions.

In Santo Domingo, room rates start at US$36 per night (twin private room), while in Cabarete, rooms start at US$32 per night (double private room). A cold beer on the beach only costs about $1.50US with plenty of inexpensive options for local food.

The Dominican Republic is connected with daily flights from the USA, making it also a very easy to reach destination. The main airport is located in Santo Domingo and, aside from the flights from the USA and the Caribbean, it also receives direct flights from Europe.

>> Book flights to the Dominican Republic

Panama

Panama is definitely the hidden gem of Central America. It has coastlines on both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean and is one of the most attractive emerging tourism destinations in the world. It is 30% cheaper to spend a vacation in Panama than in Costa Rica.

Bocas de Toro is a town and beach resort located on the southern tip of Colón Island, small enough to be tackled on foot. Aside from the high end hotels, you can also find cheap accommodation for $20-$40 per night. Another option is Balboa. But you can also stay in Panama City  -where rooms are slightly more expensive – and explore the beaches on day trips. It’s also easy to find cheap meals, with set meals at Panamanian restaurants going for about $2-$4US.

Panama is served by daily flights from the Americas. You’ll most likely land on Tocumen International Airport, serving Panama City. From here you can either take a domestic flight, rent a car or take a cheap bus to you final destination.

>> Search for flights to Panama or read about reasons to visit Panama

Venezuela

Venezuela, located in the far north of South America, shares shorelines with both the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. Most travelers come here to see Angel Falls, the world’s highest waterfall, but the country also has the longest coastline to the Caribbean Sea and a variety of beaches to check out.

Margarita Island (Isla Margarita) in the Caribbean Sea offers 106 miles of coastline with 50 beautiful beaches. Along with a lively nightlife, it’s also a windsurfers’ paradise. At Playa El Agua, the most popular beach, guesthouse double room rates start at $30-$40 with hostel rooms costing less than half that. Set lunches and street food cost under $5US.

The main gateway into Venezuela is Simon Bolivar International Airport, serving the capital of Caracas. It receives direct flights from USA, Europe, the Caribbean and other countries in South America. To get to Margarita Island you can either choose a domestic flight or take the ferry from Puerto La Cruz.

>> Book a ticket to Venezuela or find a Venezuela adventure tour

Philippines

The Philippines is an archipelago in South East Asia, well known for being a cheap vacation destination. If you combined all the beaches on its more than 7000 islands, it would forms one of the world’s longest coastlines.

Many visitors choose the island of Boracay;  despite its popularity and notoriety as a beach party hotspot, its long white sandy beaches rival those in the Caribbean or Thailand.

The cheapest rates can be found from June to September. Room rates start at US$23 per night in a bungalow (sleeps two) o r you can pay from US$45 in a standard double room in a 3-star hotel. Street food and budget meals won’t cost more than few bucks, with more upscale dining available for around $10US.

Boracay Island is located about an hour’s flight from Manila, the country’s capital. There are two main airports close to Boracay Island: Godofredo P. Ramos Airport in Caticlan and Kalibo International Airport.

>> Search airfare to Manila

Vietnam

Vietnam is not as popular of a beach destination as nearby neighbors Thailand and Indonesia. Still, the country boasts 3,444 km of coastline (excluding the islands) which offers quite a lot of beaches to choose from and all at a budget price.

Surfers head to China Beach, where the water is clean and the sandy beach seems to stretch on forever. China Beach is located close to Da Nang and that’s where you should look for accommodation. Room rates start at US$6 per night for basic accommodations, with a few more comforts easily attainable if you can spend around $10. Dining out is just as much of a bargain with street food available for about a buck. Another option for Vietnam is Nha Trang, which may not boast the clearest water or cleanest beaches, but it’s still a great place to get your fix for cheap. Like most of the rest of Vietnam, cheap rooms can be had anywhere, and many are just a short walk from the massive public beach. While the water isn’t the clearest near town, you can head out just a short boat ride from shore on diving or scuba adventures and see some amazing, clear azure waters and plenty of underwater life.

Da Nang is Vietnam’s third largest city, served by an international airport. It only receives flights from Vietnam and the near-by countries, so your best bet is to fly into Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City and then travel to Da Nang. From Da Nang you can rent a scooter to get to China Beach. Nha Trang is located about 8-9 hours from Ho Chi Minh City by bus, which is the cheapest transport option. If your budget provides, flights and a 5 star express train is available as well.

>> Book flights to Vietnam or learn more about beaches in Vietnam

Thailand

With revered food, a tropical climate and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Thailand has always been a preferred destination for budget travelers. It is the most popular destination in Southeast Asia thanks to the huge variety of landscapes and things to do here as well as the low cost and ease of travel.

Options are endless when it comes to beaches in Thailand, and if you’re looking to do it on a budget, you’ve come to the right place. Koh Chang, while not the secluded backpacker paradise it once was, is still a fantastic option. Lonely Beach still has super cheap (as low as $3/night) beach bungalows to stay in, and if you eat local Thai food, it’s not hard to only spend about a buck per meal. If you’re looking for diving and snorkeling opportunities, Koh Tao is quickly becoming one of the top spots in all of Thailand. It’s also not far from party spots Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan (famous for their Full Moon Parties), easily reached by ferries if that’s your preferred scene.

All the islands mentioned have very cheap, very basic beach bungalows that can be had for under $5/night. If you’re looking for something a little nicer, you have options as well. It’s not difficult to find a decent hotel room or even a nicer bungalow with air conditioning for around $25-$30/night for a double. As long as you eat local Thai food you can save on your budget. But if you go for the western options, you’ll likely pay more than double.

Getting to any of these islands is relatively easy from Bangkok. To get to Koh Chang, the best option is to head to the Eastern Bus Terminal in Bangkok and catch a bus to Laem Ngop, where you’ll take a ferry to Koh Chang. It should only take about 6 hours total from Bangkok. To get to Koh Tao, Koh Samui, or Koh Pha Ngan, travelers need to first get to Surat Thani, which can be reached by plane, bus, or train. Thai trains are extremely comfortable and cheap, so consider taking an overnight sleeper train. From Surat Thani, ferries can reach all three islands.

>> Book flights to Bangkok or discover more Thailand beaches

Morocco

Morocco, located in North Africa, has a coastline on both the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Due to its location it competes for beach tourists with Spain, Portugal, Egypt and even Italy. But Morocco wins when it comes to cost.

Oualidia is a coastal village, rapidly emerging as the best beach destination in Morocco. It is located close to Marrakech, which also makes it easy to get to. The unspoiled beach, as well as the great conditions for windsurfing, attracts lots of tourists. Essaouira, a seaside fishing village known for its white and blue buildings, is another popular option.

Rooms in riads – guesthouses in converted homes – start at low as $40US, while seaview rooms in mid-range hotels can be found for about $70US.  Food from the local markets and street vendors ranges from $3-$6 for a heaping tagine plate, while food at upscale places and those geared towards tourists will be about double that.

Fly into Marrakech and then either choose the local transport or rent a car and drive to Oualidia. The airport in Marrakech is served by flights from Europe. If you fly from North America, you can fly via London, Madrid, Amsterdam or Paris.

>> Find airfare to Morocco or read our Morocco travel guide

Egypt

Egypt has been known for decades as a cheap vacation destination, particularly for the European travelers who want to escape the cold season and soak up the sun and sand in Africa. But many travelers also choose Egypt during summer as the prices are lower.

Sharm el Sheikh is a well known Egyptian beach resort, popular with British and other European travelers. Aside from soaking up the sun, you should try diving, as it is known as one of the best diving spots in the world.

While this resort area has its share of pricey places to stay, you can find double rooms clean and cozy hotels and guesthouses for less than $20US. Dining costs can likewise fluctuate from a few bucks for street food and market meals to much, much more at higher end restaurants.

Sharm el Sheikh is served by its own airport, which receives plenty of charter flights from Europe during the high season. There are year-round flights from cities in Europe, as well. If you fly from North America, you’ll have to make a stop in one of the European hubs, such as Amsterdam or London.

Live Camera Volcano observatories Info – On Live

Link text : http://volcanism.wordpress.com

The aim of this list is to provide an easy-to-access directory of those volcano observatories across the world that have an online presence as of January 2011.

Not all the websites listed provide real-time information or even regular bulletins, some provide hardly any information at all, some break down from time to time and disappear completely, others are rarely updated, still others (a lot of them, actually) are just ugly and badly organized. However, one must work with what one has.

No guarantees can be given of the comprehensiveness of this list, nor, despite every reasonable effort being made, of accuracy. No responsibility can be accepted by The Volcanism Blog for the accuracy of the information on this page, and if you need information from any observatory, particularly in an emergency situation, you should confirm the correct contact details independently.

Please feel free to e-mail me with comments on, corrections of, and additions to, this list.

Pacific

Hawai’i (United States) 

Haleakala - info - webcam

Kilauea - info - webcams: Pu’u O’o | Thanksgiving Eve Breakout | Halema`uma`u Crater from HVO | Halema`uma`u Crater overlook | Napau Fissure | Kamoamoa West Fissure

Mauna Kea - info - webcam

Mauna Loa - info - webcam

Mariana Islands (United States)

Anatahan - info - webcam

Western/Southern Pacific

Japan - The Japanese Meteorological Agency has a page of 40+ webcams, but the names are all in Japanese – and they can’t be directly linked. I will try to add a key in the near future.

Asama - info - webcams: one | two | three

Aso - info - webcams: one | two | three | four – multiple views | five

Bandai - info - one | two

Chokai - info - webcam

Daisetsu - info - webcam

Fuji - info - webcams: one | two | Shimiza port | Fujinomiya City | Lake Tanuki | Lake Saiko |Lake Kawaguchi | Mt. Mitsutoge | Fujiyoshida City | Oshino | Gotemba

Hiuchi - info - webcam

Iwate - info - webcams: one | two

Kirishima - info - webcams: one (sixth and seventh from bottom on right menu) | two |three

Myoko - info - webcam

Nikko-Shirane - info - webcam

Niseko - info - webcam

Norikura - info - webcam

Ontake - info - webcam

Rausu - info - webcam

Rishiri - info - webcams: one | two

Sakurajima - info - two webcams: one | two | three (fourth and fifth from bottom) | four

Shitoksu - info - webcam

Unzen - info - webcam

Usu - info - webcam

Yake - info - webcams: one | two

Yotei - info - webcams: one | two

New Zealand

Lake Taupo - info - webcam

Ngauruhoe (Tongariro) - info - webcam

Ruapehu - info - webcam

Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe (Tongariro) - webcam

Taranaki - info - webcams: one | two

White Island - info - webcams: Crater | Coast (from Whakatane) | Crater two

Kermadec Islands (monitoring administered by GNS New Zealand)

Raoul Island  - info - webcam

Philippines

Taal - info - webcam

Northern Pacific

Russia

Bezymianny - info - webcam

Gorely - info - webcam

Kliuchevskoi - info - webcams: one | two | three

Koryaksky - info - webcams: one | two

Koryaksky and Avachinsky - info Avachinsky - webcam

Shiveluch - info - webcams: one | two

Alaska (United States)

AVO has a multitude of webcams – and the ability to watch multiple webcams simultaneously.

Akutan - info - webcam

Augustine - info - webcams: Island | Lagoon | Low light | from Homer 

Cleveland - info - webcam

Fourpeaked - info - webcam

Katmai - info - webcam

Pavlof - info - webcam

Redoubt - info - webcams: Hut | DFR | Rig

Shishaldin - info - webcam

Spurr - info - webcams: Unocal | CKT

Ugashik-Peulik - info - webcam

Veniaminof - info - webcam

Indian Ocean

Indonesia 

Anak Krakatau - info - webcam (tends to be down)

Merapi - info - webcams: one | two | three

Sinabung - info - webcam

Reunion Island (France)

Piton de la Fournaise - info - webcams: four different views | Piton Partage

Europe

Azores (Portugal)

Pico - info - webcams: one | two | three

Italy

Etna - info - multiple INGV webcams | Hotel Corsaro: links to many Etna webcams

Stromboli and Vulcano - info Stromboli - info Vulcano - multiple webcams

Vesuvius - info - multiple webcams

France

Puy de Dôme - info - webcam

Greece

Santorini - info - webcams: one | two (summer only)

Turkey

Ararat - info - webcam

Canary Islands (Spain)

Tenerife/Teide – info - webcams: one | two

Iceland

*Many of the Icelandic webcams hosted by ruv.is require Windows Media.

You can also see webcams from all around Iceland as well.

Eyjafjallajökull - info - webcams: from Þórólfsfell | two | three

Grímsvötn - info - one (nearby glacial outlet) | two

Hekla - info - webcams: one* | two

Katla* - info - webcam

Öræfajökull - info - webcam

Surtsey (Vestmannaeyjar) - info - webcam

Jan Mayen Island (Norway)

Beerenburg - info - webcam

 

Caribbean/Central America

Montserrat

Soufriere Hills - info - webcam (no automatic update, must refresh to see a new image)

Martinique (France)

Pelee - info - webcam (currently down – January 2011)

Guadeloupe (France)

La Soufriere de Guadeloupe - info - webcam

Costa Rica

Arenal - info - webcam (currently down)

Turrialba - info - webcam

Mexico

Colima - info - webcam

Popocatépetl - info - webcam: one | two | three

El Salvador

Santa Ana / Ilamatepec - info - webcam

South America

Colombia

Galeras - info - webcam

Huila - info - webcams: one | two

Purace - info - webcam

Ecuador

Cotopaxi - info - webcam

Tungurahua - info - webcam

Chile

Chaitén - info - webcams: Caldera | Camping | Aeródromo

Llaima - info - webcams: Melipeuco | Cherquenco | Curacautín | Laguna Verde | POVI(currently down)

Planchon Peteroa - info - webcam

Osorno and Calbuco - info Osorno | info Calbuco - webcam

Villarrica - info - webcams: CVV | Llafenco | Pucon | Calafquen | POVI

North America

United States

Yellowstone - info | YVO - webcams: Old Faithful (currently down) | Mammoth Springs | Down Basin/Old Faithful

Cascade Range / CVO

Adams - info - webcam

Baker - info - webcams: one | two | three

Crater Lake - info - webcam (offline until June)

Hood - info - webcams: Mt. Hood Meadows | Timberline

Rainier - info - webcams: from Paradise | from Tacoma

Saint Helens - info - webcams: Hi Resolution | low Resolution

Shasta - info - webcam

Antarctica

Erebus - info | monitoring - webcams: one (down) | Scott Base

The best countries for food

Link : http://www.lonelyplanet.com

Food and travel go together like planes and airports. No matter where you go you’ll have little trouble finding at least one culinary experience that will help you understand the local culture. In some countries the food is the highlight, drawing many a foodie to its borders, like a moth to a flame. Here are 11 countries (in no particular order) that your taste buds will thank you for visiting.

1. Thailand

Image by jaaron

Standing at the crossroads of India, China and Oceania, Thai cuisine is like a best-of of all three’s techniques and ingredients. Dishes generally go in hard with garlic and chillies (especially the phrik khii nuu variety, which literally translates as ‘mouseshit peppers’). Other signature ingredients include lime juice, coriander and lemon grass, which give the cuisine its characteristic tang. Legendary fish sauce or shrimp paste looks after the salt.

2. Greece

Image by Klearchos Kapoutsis

From olives to octopus, the true taste of Greece depends on fresh, unadulterated staples. Masking or complicating original flavours is not the done thing, especially when you’re dealing with oven-fresh bread, rosy tomatoes and fish fresh from the Mediterranean. The midday meal is the main event with a procession of goodies brought to the table as they’re ready. With Wednesday and Friday traditionally reserved as fast days (ie no-meat days), vegetarians are also looked after.

3. China

From back-alley dumpling shops to four-star banquet halls, China has one of the world’s finest palates. Cultural precepts of Yin and Yang (balance and harmony) are evident in the bowl: with food for the day including cooling foods such as vegetables and fruit to counter warming spices and meat. The Chinese revere rice but also choose noodles, with either almost always accompanying a meal. A range of regional specialities exist, variously influenced by geography and history.

4. France

Image by Sunfox

From cheese and champagne to snails and baguettes, the French are famous for their foodstuffs. French cuisine has long distinguished itself for dallying with a great variety of foods. Each region’s distinct climate and geography have influenced the array of regional specialities. Many in France consider lunch as the day’s main meal, though the two hour marathon meal is increasingly rare. The crowning meal is a fully fledged home-cooked dinner comprising six distinct plats (courses).

5. Spain

Image by scaredy_kat

Best in Barcelona, Catalan cooking is racking up the accolades from gourmands around the globe. Like other regional Spanish cuisines, Catalan cooking favours spices such as saffron and cumin, as well as honeyed sweets. A mixture of ingredients and traditions adds flair to Barcelona’s fare: using seafood and meats in a rich array of sauces. Dinner is the main event, but never before 9pm.

6. Mexico

Image by chargrillkiller

Would you like some magic-realism with that enchilada? The Mexican sensibility for enchanting influences is also brought to the table in its food, particularly during celebrations. Mexican cuisine has an overriding Spanish influence, with a twist of French and African thanks to its history. Corn and bean-based dishes are prominent – prepared in a multitude of world renowned ways including tacos, enchiladas andquesadillas. And who could forget the worm that waits at the bottom of a bottle ofMezcal?

7. Italy

Image by Allerina and Glen MacLarty

Its food is arguably Italy‘s most famous export, and it’s with good reason that the world wants it. Despite all the variations that exist between regions, some common staples bind the country’s culinary creations. Think thin-crust pizza and al dente pastasand risottos. And to drink? One word: coffee. The Italians do it best – from perfecting a distinguished roast to the gentle extraction of its essence into the cup. Perfecto!

8. India

Image by maintenancepic

India’s protean gastronomy changes shape as you move between neighbourhoods, towns and states. The basis of all meals is rice in the south, and roti in the north. These are generally partnered with dhal, vegetables and chutney. Fish or meat may also be added. Whatever the ingredients: the dish usually contains a heady cast of exotic spices that make the taste buds stand up and take notice.

9. Japan

Image by jetalone

If you can wrap your tongue around pronouncing the menu, Japan’s cuisine is a most rewarding mouthful. Most Japanese restaurants concentrate on a specialty cuisine, such as yakitori (skewers of grilled chicken or veg), sushi and sashimi (raw fish),tempura (lightly battered and fried ingredients) and ramen noodle bars. The pinnacle of Japanese cooking, kaiseki (derived as an adjunct to the tea ceremony), combines ingredients, preparation, setting and ceremony over several small courses to distinguish the gentle art of eating.

10. Indonesia & Malaysia

Image by paularps

Indonesian and Malaysian cuisines are one big food swap: Chinese, Portuguese, Indian, colonists and traders have all influenced their ingredients and culinary concepts. They are nations well represented by their food. The abundance of rice is characteristic of the region’s fertile terraced landscape, the spices are reminiscent of a time of trade and invasion (the Spice Islands), and fiery chilli echoes the people’s passion. Indonesian and Malaysian cooking is not complex, and tastes here stay separate, simple and substantial.

There are hundreds more Lonely Planet articles on food and travel here

Top 5 European Islands

Link :http://traveler.sunnyrentals.com/

Europe’s most popular holiday islands draw major tourist crowds to its well-known charms, but with a bit of insider info, you can hit these islands and have an entire-beach-to-yourself getaway.

Island 1: Ibiza

About half the island, and especially the still fairly untrampled northeast areas are covered by thick forests, almond and fig groves.

Island 2: Mallorca

High-rise tourist development is something you don’t see so much in the medieval centre of Palma, whose old quarter oozes history in its twisting lanes, Gothic churches and baroque palaces.

Island 3: Lanzarote

Unesco declared the entire island a biosphere reserve in 1993, meaning any development is balanced against the need to preserve the island’s heritage and environment.

Island 4: Rhodes

If you’re not taken in by its World Heritage listed Old Town with its labyrinthine streets and medieval fortifications, you will be by its deserted beaches, snaking mountain roads and wild interior.

Island 5: Cyprus

Floating on the waters of the European Mediterranean, but pointing towards the shores of Syria, Turkey and Lebanon, Cyprus is a beguiling cultural blend

The world’s top ten most desolate countries

Link : http://www.gadling.com/

According to a Harvard study, the earth’s population will hit seven billion humans in a few months. Earlier this summer, Gadling labs profiled the effects of increasing populations on finite land resources by showcasing the world’s most crowded islands. The earth is, in its own way, an island, and 21st century humanity will be presented with the challenge of adapting to rising population levels and static resources.

While countries like India have wrestled with the conundrum of feeding and housing booming population levels in Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai, the countries on this list bear no similarities to the billion strong Indian subcontinent. These countries are the ones with open space – lots of it. Countries like Greenland and Mongolia may someday be utilized for their vast expanses of open terrain, but today they are simply great places to go when you have tired of other human beings.

So while this extraordinarily hot summer may have included elbowing your way through thronged midtown Manhattan in 100 degree heat or hesitantly inhaling the stink rising off the sweaty crowd at Bonnaroo, this list is intended to take you way away from the crowds. From riding a horse through the empty steppes of Mongolia to exploring the glacial highlands ofIceland, each of these countries offers exercises in sweet sweet solitude. None of these countries have more than ten people per square mile.

10 Mauritania
Location: Northwest Africa
Population: 3,069,000
Population density: 8.2 humans per square mile
Primary Airport: Nouakchott International Airport
Primer: Mauritania is a sand swept country offering desolation and one of the lowest GDPs on the African continent. Even the well-traveled must consult an atlas to correctly place the country on their mental map. Heavily mined in the east with empty beaches in the West, the country is one of the least visited locations on the planet. Credit cards are not readily acceptable, rain is scarce, and desert covers over half of this one time French occupation. Throw in strained African/Arab relations and you get a very challenging country to visit.

9 Suriname
Location: Northeast South America
Population: 491,989
Population density: 7.6 humans per square mile
Primary Airport: The Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport
Primer: Suriname is a whisper of a nation on South America‘s north-Atlantic coast. Most Surinamese call the coastal region home, and the interior of the country is an impenetrable rain-forest, inhabited by toucans, parrots, monkeys, deer, and the elusive cock-of-the-rock. 60% of Suriname residents speak Dutch with the rest speaking a collection of fourteen other languages, including Sranan Tongo – a creole dialect. Most tourists come to Suriname for the Amazonian rain-forest, though the northern beaches are surprisingly good — and empty.

8 Iceland
Location: North Atlantic Ocean
Population: 318,452
Population density: 7.5 humans per square mile
Primary Airport: Keflavík International Airport
Primer: When multinational aluminum producer Alcoa decided to build a smelting plant in Iceland, they encountered an extraordinary problem. The Icelandic government required Alcoa to pay specialists to inspect and survey the proposed building site for elves, gnomes, trolls, and fairies – so called “hidden people.” The situation strained Alcoa’s management because paying specialists to search for “hidden people” seemed to be a bit of a boondoggle, especially from a shareholder point of view. But, Alcoa paid for the service. The intricate search process took six months. This is the type of place Iceland is – unique and folkloric, awkwardly straddling the modern and ancient worlds.

Iceland’s geographical diversity spans a wide range. From the fires of active volcanoes to glacial carved fjords, Iceland’s landscape provides a full suite of awe-inspiring natural features.

7 Australia
Location: South Indian and Pacific Oceans
Population: 22,672,063
Population density: 7.3 humans per square mile
Primary Airport: Kingsford Smith Airport
Primer: Australia truly needs no introduction. Its inclusion on this list stems from the vast open quarter that consumes much of its central and western landmass. Roughly 80% of Australians live in the eastern states, and while Australia is one of the world’s largest countries geographically, the country’s entire population equals that of the Bangkokmetropolitan area. This human sparseness is evident to those that venture into the country’s vast interior. As one of the most visited countries in the world, Australia boasts both open space and cosmopolitan metropolitan areas. Also: koala bears.

6 Namibia
Location: Southern Africa
Population: 2,108,655
Population density: 6.6 humans per square mile
Primary Airport: Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport
Primer: Namibia is home to an abandoned German mining town, the world’s oldest desert, lots of big cats, and an underground lake thought to be the largest on earth. The dunes of the 80 million year old Namib desert rise off of the desert floor like mountains, and cheetahs prowl the nation’s back-country, competing with lions and leopards for bush snacks. Throw in penguins, a 50 ton meteorite, and Ovambo tribesmen that oddly cling to the Lutheran religion, and it is easy to appreciate Namibia’s diverse offerings.

5 French Guiana (France)
Location: Northeast South America
Population: 217,000
People per square mile: 6.2 humans per square mile
Primary Airport: Cayenne – Rochambeau Airport
Primer: French Guiana is a throwback to the era of European imperialism. An overseas region of France, the country is the last South American country still considered to be part of Europe. It is almost entirely unsettled wilderness, and one of the most notorious prisons in the world was once located just offshore. The foreboding-sounding Devil’s Island housed a number of prisoners, including Clement Duval and Alfred Dreyfuss. Today, half of the population lives in the capital city of Cayenne, and many also live in the unlikely space-town of Kourou. The city of Kourou is the launch site for European Space Agency satellites. Space-related business accounts for 25% of French Guiana’s GDP and has been a boost to the local economy since Charles de Gaulle opened the space-travel base in 1964.

4 Western Sahara
Location: Northwest Africa
Population: 513,000
People per square mile: 5 per square mile
Primary Airport: Hassan I Airport
Primer: Western Sahara, a disputed region in northern Africa, is perhaps the epitome of desolation. With a long coastline lacking credible beaches, a heavily mined military zone, and the topography of a vast arid desert, it is a moonish destination for sure. The temperatures soar during the day and plummet at night. Independent travel is commonly restricted in the region. Literacy is thought to be below 50%. Not exactly selling points, but for those with a taste for sandy adventure, a hatred of tourist hordes, or an interest in political conflict,Western Sahara may just be the country for you.

3 Mongolia
Location: Central Asia
Population: 2,754,685
People per square mile: 4.56 humans per square mile
Primary Airport: Chinggis Khaan International Airport (Chinggis Khaan is the Mongolian name for Genghis Khan)
Primer: Mongolia is twice the size of Texas, but with less than three million humans and over sixty million heads of livestock. Nestled between Russia and China, Mongolia is an old kingdom of master horseman and nomadic tribes. The mongols first appear in written history as barbarians who invaded China and prompted the construction of the Great Wall. Today, Mongolians are a welcoming bunch, and the capital city of Ulaanbaatar is stationary – it used to move three times per year.

2 Falkland Islands (U.K)
Location: South Atlantic Ocean
Population: 3,140
People per square mile: .65 humans per square mile
Primary Airport: RAF Mount Pleasant
Primer: With 2,400 people and 700,000 sheep, the Falkland Islands boast a rather robust sheep to human ratio. A storied past includes the Falklands War between Argentina and the United Kingdom, as well as a series of various European occupations. Today, the sleepy chain of 200 islands is visited by expedition cruisers en route to Antarctica. The visitors to the remote island chain are able to observe five different species of penguin, as well as seals, whales, and a rare indigenous bird of prey – the Striated Caracara.

1 Greenland (Denmark)
Location: North Atlantic
Population: 56,615
People per square mile: .069 humans per square mile
Primary Airport: Kangerlussuaq Airport
Primer: The Greenland misnomer hearkens back to the age of Erik the Red - a viking known for his issues with Norse law. Having been exiled from both Norway and Iceland, Erik came upon this hulking breast of an island further west. To entice future visitors, he coined the island Greenland, and it stuck. Many Nordic settlers moved to Greenland at his urging, probably stumped by its misleading name – 85% of Greenland is covered by a thick sheet of ice. Allegedly, the southern coastal region is actually very green, especially in the summer months. Last year, Gadling labs sent an explorer to the island to comment on its greenness. His findings? It is, in fact, quite green.

While the national dish of boiled seal meat may fail to conjure up a sudden urge to visit the Arctic island, the glacial cut fjords, polar bears, and colorful houses make visiting Greenland an extraordinary experience.

top flickr image via Atli Harðarson

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Travel to Andros Island in the northernmost of the Cyclades

Link : http://www.korthi.gr (Photo , Text )

Ορμος Κορθίου – Ανδρος

Andros.

The island has an area of ​​374 square kilometers, maximum length of 39.8 kilometers, maximum width 16.7 km, 177 km long coastline and a population from the 1981 census, 9020 inhabitants. It is second in size (after Naxos) Cycladic island and the harbor, Gavrio, is 2 hours (1 hour by speedboat) from the port of Rafina.

The coastline is generally rocky and has many sheltered bays: Mikrogiali, Vitali, the Castle, Melissa, Korthi, of St. John the Onion, Gavrio, Batsi of Chalkolimniona, Plaka …

Islets surrounding it: the Gavrionisia, Kapitita, Macedon, Tourlitis, the Theotokos, Back, Lagonisi Prasouda, the Castle of the country. On Andros related and distant Monk, fear and dread of the old sailors.

Cape Campania is the northernmost tip of the island and Cape Strait (Tube) is the southernmost. On the east coast there are the capes Frygelo or Underworld, Cape Akamatis, Candy. The Diana north, the west Round.

The land of Andros covered by adjacent mountain ranges with steep slopes and among the gorges and ravines and valleys with olive trees, figs, oranges, lemons, grapes and flowing water, usually resulting in soft sandy beaches. The northern part forms the mountainous area of ​​Saranda (alt. 716), center mount Petal (alt. 994). South lies the mountainous region Katafygi-Gerakones and more south the mountain Rachi.

In the northern part Arni region has dense vegetation and abundant water. The southern slopes of Petalo have water and fertile soil (Livadia valley, the Pitrofos). Following is the valley Gerakones Korthi. The island has many streams and abundant spring water, since the geological formation of the subsurface favors retaining water rain and snow. Many of them rich in minerals have medicinal properties (Sariza, Source Arni, Alasia, etc.).

Sights 

There are many places you can enjoy in Korthi. The jewels of the region, villages, Castle Faneromeni Dipotamata and the Old Woman’s Leap, will impress you.

You can also see the rare type of horizontal windmill (tavlomylou) and an extensive network of mills, rare spectacle for the Cyclades.

Admire the unique pigeon, and old churches and monasteries.

And of course discover its beautiful beaches, some crowded and others deserted, for every taste.

In all these places you can go walking through the old trails that are maintained regularly, gaining a rare experience and a deeper understanding of the place.

On the next page you will find a collection of photographs from the area.

There are many beaches to enjoy in the borough and even the most remote and isolated, you will discover.

The most famous is the Old Woman’s Leap, near Ormos Korthi.In the bay you will find the large beach of Milos and Vintzi and St. Catherine. Walking while you will find Bouro and Melissa, where you can admire the caves. With your own boat or boat will go to Kremydes.

Under Strait is the long beach and the west coast you will find the plate with turquoise waters.

Syneti will enjoy the spectacular beach of the seaside stalactites and a little farther will find a secluded beach, Lydia.

The less we leave to you to find!

The 6 most beautiful islands in the world

Top Most Beautiful Islands in The World :

Here is the list of top most beautiful island in the world. This islands also most favorite travel destinations. We always love pure and relaxing atmosphere in these beautiful island. So here’s the list of top most beautiful island in the world :

1. Bali Island, Indonesia

Having previously fallen due to the bombing tragedy in 2002 and 2005, Bali was chosen as the most beautiful islands in the polling conducted by Travel + Leisure magazine that based in New York. Bali is very interesting island. Tourist can find many attractions here. There are several beautiful beaches in Bali, meanwhile there’s a traditional culture attraction as well here. Tourist can even see beautiful lakes in the mountainous areas of Bali while next day do surfing in the beach. This is really an island of leisure.

2. Galapagos Island

This island had ever shifted Bali in 1st rank. The island is famous for the beauty of living in the island. There are many ancient times animals that live in the Galapagos islands.

Most beautiful island : Galapagos Islands

3. Cape Breton Island, Canada

Cape-Breton-Island

Cape Breton Island is part of Nova Scotia province, Canada. Although physically separated from Nova Scotia peninsula by the Canso Strait. But It is artificially connected to mainland Nova Scotia by the Canso Causeway. The island is located in the east-northeast from the mainland while the north and west coast fronting the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, west coast also forming the eastern boundaries of Northumberland Strait. Eastern and southern coast face the Atlantic Ocean, the eastern coast also forming the western boundary to Cabot Strait. Mainland slopes upward from south to north, culminating in the highlands of the north cape. One of the world’s largest salt water lake “Bras d’Or” ( Arm of Gold – in English), dominates the center of the island.

4. Kauai Island, Hawaii

Kauai-Islands-Hawai

Kaua’i (usually called Kauai outside the Hawaiian Islands) in Hawaii is the oldest island in Hawaii and the 4th largest, has an area of 1446 km². Also known as the “Garden Island”. Kaua’i lies 105 miles (170km) across the Kaua’i Channel, northwest of Oahu.
Derived from the volcano, the highest peak on this mountainous island is Kawaikini at 1.598m (5243 feet). The second highest peak is Mount Waialeale near the center of the island at 1.570 m above sea level. Kauai is the wettest place on Earth, with annual rainfall average is 460 inches (11.700mm). The spot is in the east of Mount Waialeale, annual rainfall has eroded the high valley in the middle of the mountains, carved cliff with a beautiful waterfall.

5. Mount Desert Island, U.S

Mount Desert Island, in Hancock County, Maine, is the largest island off the coast of Maine. With 108 square miles, It is the 6th largest island in the United States.

Mount Desert Island

Although often claimed to be the third largest island in the east coast of the United States, it is only second behind Long Island (and before the Martha’s Vineyard). The island has a permanent population of about 10,000, although estimated two and a half million tourists visit Acadia National Park on the island each year. The island is home many summer colony known as Northeast Harbor and Bar Harbor.

6. Rhodes Islands, Greece

Rhodes island, one of the most beautiful islands in Greece is Rhodes. Because of it’s natural beauties, historical monuments and the exceptional tourism  infrastructure, Rhodes island is one of the leading summer destinations.It is also the biggest island of the Dodecanese, is particularly encouraged by nature. It is great tourism destination on southeast Europe : Rhodes Island, it is the fourth largest island of the Greek islands and has a surface of 1,390 square kilometers

 

Weihnachtsmarkt in Attendorn Germany

Glühwein, Vereinshütten und ein buntes Rahmenprogramm

Vom 3. bis 12. Dezember lädt der Attendorner Weihnachtsmarkt wieder zum Bummeln und Genießen ein.

Wohl niemand in Attendorn hatte damit gerechnet, dass der erst 2005 initiierte Weihnachtsmarkt ein so gigantischer Erfolg werden würde. Viele Menschen sind in den letzten Jahren gekommen, um die tolle Stimmung und Atmosphäre im Schatten des Sauerländer Doms zu erleben.

Vom 3. bis 12. Dezember 2010 findet nun der 6. Weihnachtsmarkt auf dem Alter Markt statt und möchte die Besucher zum Bummeln einladen oder um den einen oder anderen Plausch zu halten und einen leckeren Glühwein zu trinken.

Rustikale Holzhütten und ein großer Glühweinstand laden dazu montags bis freitags ab 15.00 Uhr und samstags bzw. sonntags sogar ab 11.00 Uhr ein. Nicht nur die wunderschönen Hütten mit dem abwechslungsreichen Angebot und die vielen Leckereien werden die Gäste anlocken, auch ein tolles Rahmenprogramm innerhalb des Weihnachtsmarkts wird für stimmungsvolle Unterhaltung angeboten. Vereine, Kindergärten, karitative Einrichtungen und der Nikolaus werden 10 Tage lang für Kurzweil sorgen und den Weihnachtsmarkt bereichern.

Die Attendorner Vereine sorgen für Stimmung

Besonders die beiden „Vereinshütten“, deren Belegung täglich wechselt, locken mittlerweile viele Besucher an. In diesen haben Vereine, Schulen und andere Institutionen die Möglichkeit, sich und ihre Arbeit zu präsentieren und durch den Verkauf von Waffeln, Würstchen und Selbstgebasteltem die Klassen- oder Vereinskasse aufzubessern. Auch zum Programm in Form von Auftritten oder Aktionen wird seitens der „Vereinshütten“ beigetragen.

Ganz besonders freuen können sich die Besucher auf die Auftritte des Kinderchors Repetaler Kinderstimmen am 4. Dezember um 18.00 Uhr, auf den Attendorner Fanfarenzug am 5. Dezember ab 14.00 Uhr sowie ab 15.00 Uhr auf die mittelalterlichen Spielleute „Triskehle“ (Foto rechts), die in Attendorn durch ihre Auftritte beim Altstadtfest bekannt sind und mit besonderen Winter- und Weihnachtsliedern aufwarten werden. Am 9. Dezember erwartet die Besucher um 19.30 Uhr ein Auftritt des Evangelischen Posaunenchors Attendorn.

Wie in den letzten Jahren spielt wieder eine kleine Besetzung des JOMA (Jugendorchester Musikzug Attendorn); das Quintett sorgt auf dem Weihnachtsmarkt für musikalische Untermalung am Montag, Mittwoch und Donnerstag, jeweils ab 18.00 Uhr.

Verkaufsoffener Sonntag am 12. Dezember

Der Nikolaus kommt am 5. und 12. Dezember um 15.00 Uhr zu den ganz kleinen Gästen.

Zusätzlich gibt es am 12. Dezember einen verkaufsoffenen Sonntag des Attendorner Einzelhandels von 13.00-18.00 Uhr. Wer dann seine Weihnachtseinkäufe in Ruhe und schöner Atmosphäre verrichten möchte, ist in Attendorn bestens aufgehoben.

Für Rückfragen steht das Team der Attendorner Hanse GmbH unter Tel. 02722/4897 oder E-Mailattendorner-hanse@t-online.de gerne zur Verfügung.