#Dune Valley Distillery

[ingoodtastedenver]

Podcast: Discovering Dune Valley Distillery

As if we needed another reason to head to the Great Sand Dunes National Park in Masca, Colorado, we now have a really good one. Dune Valley Distillery has opened, making spirits, reviving a family wine brand, making the most of local crops, revamping an historic building, and practicing sustainability – all at the same time. We’ll drink to that! Listen to this In Good Taste Denver Podcast to meet…

[gonehollywoodrp]

JOIN US ON ST. KITTS.

There are many reasons to see St. Kitts, an island of a thousand treasures. To splash in warm, iridescent waters along pristine island shores. To dive ancient shipwrecks and virgin coral reefs. To sway to a soca beat, sipping local rum around a bonfire on the beach. St. Kitts is small enough to see in a day, and big enough to explore for a lifetime.

Visit the Capital: Learning more about this charming city is simple. Book one of the local walking tours and let the rich storytelling transport you through history. Tour highlights will include some of St. Kitts’ most significant landmarks. Independence Square dates back to the 1700s and once served as Basseterre’s municipal center, and today, it serves as a site for cultural events. If you’re looking to take a day trip to sister island Nevis, make your way to the recently renovated Basseterre Bus and Ferry Terminal and take the ferry to Charlestown. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, Basseterre offers a glimpse of Kittitian life, yesteryear and today.

Sunny Blue Dune Buggies: Drive through the dense tropical rain forest and through our quaint and charming towns - all the while riding in comfort in your Buggy.  Excellent for couples and families to explore St. Kitts in a fun and adventurous way. Sunny Blue offers you the option to explore the island on your own or through a guided tour. You can experience your adventure through the mountains or while travelling along the sandy beaches.

Brimstone Hall Fortress National Park: This is a site of historical, cultural and architectural significance. This centuries-old citadel is a monument to the ingenuity of the British military engineers who designed it and to the skill and strength of the African slaves who built it on the steep at the risk and probable loss of lives. The walls are predominantly made of stone, painstakingly carved from Brimstone Hill’s hard volcanic rock. The mortar was produced from the limestone that covers much of the middle and lower slopes. Begun in the 1690s, the fortress finally took shape as a complete military community in the 1790s. This prominent citadel is one of the earliest and finest surviving examples of a new style of fortification known as the polygonal system. 

South Frigate Beach: Here you will find the most action-packed strip of beach on the Caribbean Sea. And here the party goes on until the wee hours of the morning. This one-mile stretch of white-sand beach, is ideal for swimming, windsurfing, water-skiing and various other water sports. It is also lined with various types of beach shacks - island bars that serve drinks, food, craft, and trinkets in an atmosphere infused with infectious Caribbean rhythm.

Kindred Spirits: Carry a collection of St. Kitts’ famous cocktails in your pocket. Designed for rum experts and enthusiasts. Your three-hour itinerary begins at 10:00 am. Once you’re in the good company of your chosen adventure buddies and soon-to-be Kittitian RumMaster, settle in for the day ahead and prepare to dive deep into one of St. Kitts’ most celebrated cultural excursions that includes a tour of our distillery and spice mill.

Sky Safari: Take in a view of the island from up above with our sky safari! This is a two hour tour that gives a full exploration of all five ziplines. You will begin your journey on line one where you will be given a detailed orientation of our complete system. Afterwards, you will embark on a short off road drive where you will then fly our next three lines over 250ft above the valley floor. A short walk down hill will take you to line five where you can race your partner or other visitors on our dual line system.

Sugar City Trains: Join our fun-filled Sugar City Train and learn of the history of our twin island Federation, once known as the mother colony of the British West Indies. Tour the historical spots of the beautiful city and its immediate surroundings while exciting tour guide brings history and modern living to life. We offer a unique experience which gives an entertaining view of our island’s past state of struggle towards our present state of victory and unity. Climb aboard our road train and let’s journey through the passage of time!

Leeward Island Charters: Leeward Islands Charters has been sailing the seas between St. Kitts and Nevis for over 25 years. The fleet of signature navy/gold catamarans has been locally built in St. Kitts. Your time aboard will be an unforgettable experience. They are passionate about ensuring that your experience with us is memorable, whether it is just you or your group for a sail and snorkel to lunch on the beach or a sunset cruise. 

Blue Water Safaris: Experience the best of St Kitts & Nevis on a thrilling tropical adventure aboard one of our Catamarans. Blue Water Safaris has legendary day charters and half day cruises, a perfect way to settle into island life. Bask in the warm sun while enjoying the crystal clear turquoise waters and a tropical cocktail to keep you cool. Enjoy service with a smile from a fun loving crew that aims to ensure you have a memory making experience. Consistently rated as the best activity in St. Kitts, sailing with Blue Water Safaris combines the romance of the tropics with the adventure of the sea.

Eco Park: Explore the natural beauty of Eco Park!  Taking 3 years of hard work and toiling to complete building, the SKEP manages to be forged as a masterpiece of cultural mixture of both St. Kitts and Taiwan. And it successfully combines three fundamental calibers in substance: agriculture, green energy and tourism.  May the natural and manmade beauty of the Park awaken visitors' environmental awareness.

Natural Farm: Nestled 1542 ft above sea level in the rich forest region at Phillip’s Level, the cabin retreat has a spacious porch with impressive views of the surrounding mountains – perfect for relaxing, drinking a cup of coffee or tea or a glass of wine, and taking in the fresh mountain air. Consider Liamuiga Natural Farms your retreat. Visitors will be touring a fully operational coffee and citrus farm. Visitors can expect the peace and tranquility that comes from being over 1500 feet above sea level in St. Kitts’ mountains.

Paint & Sip: This paint and sip experience allows everyone to paint their very own custom masterpiece on a 9in x 12in canvas, as they sip on wine, provided by us, and have a great time! Events usually last 1.5 hours and can accommodate between 6 - 30 guests. For those who prefer not to drink wine, you’re allowed to bring your own alternate beverage to sip.

Dolphin Recovery: You cannot refuse to visit a place that will captivate you and make you enjoy every moment since your arrival to the farewell. Dolphin St. Kitts introduce you to the best friends you can find on this island and provide the most fun activities and experience of a lifetime to perform any of our programs with dolphins. This place is ideal for the whole family. Children and adults will have fun and will learn and perform the activities we have.

These activities are simply suggestions, and you can always visit the website to see what else is available and plan accordingly!

[seomastersstuff1]

Top 5 Places to Visit in Mauritius

Mauritius, a tropical paradise nestled in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. If you're searching for unforgettable destinations, this island nation has something for everyone. From pristine beaches to lush forests, the top 5 places to visit in Mauritius offer a diverse range of experiences. For thrill-seekers, there's even the chance to enjoy skydiving in Mauritius, adding an adrenaline rush to your island adventure.

1. Port Louis

The bustling capital city, Port Louis, is a must-visit for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in Mauritian culture. The city is home to the bustling Central Market, where you can explore an array of local produce, spices, and crafts. A visit to the Caudan Waterfront offers a more modern experience with shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Don't miss the historical Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that tells the story of indentured laborers who arrived in Mauritius in the 19th century. For a panoramic view of the city and surrounding areas, take a trip up to the Citadel Fort, which offers stunning vistas and a glimpse into the island’s colonial past.

2. Black River Gorges National Park

For nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, Black River Gorges National Park is a haven of biodiversity. Spanning over 6,574 hectares, this park is home to lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and rare bird species. Hike through well-marked trails to discover breathtaking viewpoints, such as the Alexandra Falls and the Black River Peak. The park’s rich flora and fauna provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography. Whether you're hiking, bird-watching, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Black River Gorges offers a serene escape from the island’s more tourist-heavy spots.

3. Le Morne Brabant

Le Morne Brabant is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Mauritius’s cultural and natural heritage. This majestic mountain, which rises dramatically from the southern tip of the island, is not only a stunning natural landmark but also holds historical significance. It was a refuge for runaway slaves in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, it’s a popular spot for hiking and offers spectacular views of the surrounding lagoon and coral reefs. The nearby Le Morne Beach is perfect for relaxing, with its white sands and crystal-clear waters providing a picturesque backdrop to your visit.

4. Île aux Cerfs

Île aux Cerfs is a small island located off the east coast of Mauritius, known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Accessible by boat, this island is a tropical paradise where you can indulge in various water sports, such as snorkeling, parasailing, and, for the ultimate thrill, skydiving in Mauritius. The island’s pristine beaches are ideal for a day of relaxation or a romantic picnic. With a range of restaurants and bars, Île aux Cerfs offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

5. Chamarel Village

Chamarel, a quaint village located in the southwestern part of Mauritius, is famous for its natural wonders. The Chamarel Seven Colored Earths is a unique geological formation featuring sand dunes in seven distinct colors. This natural phenomenon is best viewed from a dedicated viewing platform. Nearby, you'll find the Chamarel Waterfall, a spectacular cascade that plunges into a lush valley. The village also hosts the Rhumerie de Chamarel, where you can tour the rum distillery and sample some of the finest local rum. Chamarel offers a charming glimpse into Mauritius’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Mauritius is a treasure trove of experiences, offering everything from vibrant city life to serene natural landscapes. The top 5 places to visit in Mauritius each provide a unique way to explore the island’s beauty and culture. Whether you're wandering through Port Louis, hiking in Black River Gorges, admiring the views from Le Morne Brabant, relaxing on Île aux Cerfs, or discovering the wonders of Chamarel, you're sure to create lasting memories. For those seeking an extra thrill, skydiving in Mauritius offers an exhilarating way to see the island from above. With so much to explore, Mauritius promises an unforgettable adventure for every traveler.

[vhomeefficiency]

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[torontotravelblog]

10 of the Prettiest Places in Toronto

Toronto is filled will certainly pretty areas, both inside your home as well as out. Some are covert away, while others are out in the open and apparent. I've currently discussed the very best places in Toronto to Instagram, however this time around I'm focusing on several of the prettiest areas you can discover in or near the city.

These are areas that make it very easy to leave busy city life if you need a break, or just want a tranquil spot to believe or bliss out in nature for a while. Oh, and also they're all rather Instagram-worthy too should you seem like snapping a couple of photos (and also why not?).

01 of 10 Toronto Music Yard.

ADDRESS. Harbourfront, Toronto, ON M5V, Canada. PHONE +1 416-973-4000.

A slow-moving stray with the Toronto Music Yard at Harbourfront Centre never ever gets old and also it is indeed a very rather find to uncover on a warm, bright day in the city.

Made by globally popular cellist Yo Ma as well as landscape developer Julie Moir Messervy, the style of the stunning green space was inspirited by Bach, especially, his Suite No. 1 in G Major for unaccompanied cello, BWV 1007 and every section of the garden corresponds to a movement in the piece. So essentially, the garden is designed like a lilting, relocating piece of music. Admission is cost-free and also the garden is open year-round. You can additionally take place a cost-free guided excursion, supplied June with the end of September.

02 of 10 Platform Eco-friendly Roof at City Hall.

ADDRESS. 280 The PATH - Town Hall, Toronto, ON M5H 2N3, Canada.

In can feel hard to run away the bustle of Toronto when you're right downtown, however there is a slice of serenity you can conveniently gain access to. City Hall is residence to Toronto's largest openly available green roof, which opened in the springtime of 2010. What was previously a gigantic spot of concrete is currently a prospering eco-friendly room in the heart of the city and also an excellent area to get some fresh air in beautiful environments. You'll discover designed gardens, twisting walkways, yards, balconies and seating, in addition to some great views of the city below. Access to the roofing system garden is free and it's open Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. as well as weekends and vacations from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

03 of 10 Edwards Gardens.

ADDRESS. 755 Lawrence Ave E, North York, ON M3C 1P2, Canada. PHONE +1 416-392-8188.

Edwards Gardens offers visitors a double dosage of garden beauty since it also takes place to be the place of the Toronto Botanical Garden. The calm room is house to rock yards, floral gardens, fountains, a water wheel, greenhouses, enchanting wood arc bridges as well as countless walking tracks where to enjoy all of it. If you wish to actually learn more about the attractive plants you're passing, the Toronto Arboretum offers numerous garden scenic tours as well as other instructional programs as well as workshops for both adults and also children.

04 of 10 Allan Gardens Conservatory.

19 Horticultural Ave, Toronto, ON M5A 2P2, Canada. If your suggestion of pretty includes a myriad of tropical plants, you'll definitely wish to make your method to Allan Gardens Sunroom, house to six greenhouse breaking with vibrant plants from all over the world. The conservatory itself is over 100 years of ages as well as an elegance per se. Head here to see gardens having every little thing from hands to bromeliads to cacti. The permanent collection of unique plants covers over 16,000 square feet. Admission is free as well as you can see 356 days a year from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

05 of 10 Cloud Gardens Conservatory.

ADDRESS. 14 Temperance St, Toronto, ON M5H 1Y4, Canada. PHONE +1 416-392-7288.

Sort of a surprise gem within the downtown core, Cloud Gardens Sunroom is a method to seem like you've gone on a miniature trip someplace tropical without every leaving the city. Put in between office towers downtown, the park is residence to a range of plants, however the greenhouse is the real celebrity. With a comforting waterfall and also a host of hands, brushes and other greenery you would certainly or else discover in a rainforest, it's simple to believe you have actually been hair transplanted to the tropics.

The sidewalk in the greenhouse goes from the reduced level entryway to an upper degree departure, something that truly makes you seem like you're walking up into an exotic forest. You can locate the sunroom on the south side of Richmond Street between Yonge Street as well as Bay Road.

06 of 10 Simcoe Wavedeck.

ADDRESS. 243 X Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2G8, Canada. PHONE +1 416-214-1344.

Watching out onto the Simcoe Wavedeck can be a trip for the eyes. The undulating wood wavedeck on Toronto's waterside is a whopping 650 square metres with large curves that swell almost three metres above the lake. The wayward style of the deck is what makes it so interesting the eye and also it creates a perfect place to hang around by the water. In the evening the wavedeck is lit from under making it even more gorgeous.

07 of 10 Sherbourne Common.

ADDRESS. 61 Dockside Dr, Toronto, ON M5A 1B6, Canada. PHONE +1 416-338-4386.

This waterfront park is yet one more quite place to check out in the city. The almost four-acre park covers more than 2 city blocks and includes a vast swath of eco-friendly space, an ice rink in the winter months which becomes a dash pad in the summer and water network that's residence to three huge pieces of public art. The three sculptures rise up almost nine metres over the 240-metre water network producing a result that's as significant as it is distinctive. The art piece is entitled "Light Showers" by musician Jill Anholt.

08 of 10 Crothers Woods.

ADDRESS. Crothers Woods Route, East York, ON M4H 1P6, Canada. PHONE +1 416-392-2489.

You'll locate Crothers Woods in the Don River Valley and the 52-hectare woodland places you within easy accessibility to nearly 10 kilometres of routes to discover. The timbers themselves are house to lots of trees that more than a century old. Hiking these routes is an excellent method to shed yourself in nature without needing to leave the city.

09 of 10 Distillery District.

Distillery Area, Toronto, ON M5A, Canada. Toronto's historical Distillery District is a nationwide historical site as well as among the prettiest places to walk in the city. Explore the pedestrian-only patched streets as you stroll amongst Victorian-era Industrial design. The Distillery District is full of a variety of shops, theaters, cafes, restaurants (lots of with extensive patio areas) as well as art galleries so you can quickly spend a whole day right here and not get bored momentarily. There are likewise various occasions organized here throughout the year, from concerts to markets.

10 of 10 Tommy Thompson Park.

ADDRESS. 1 Leslie St, Toronto, ON M4M 3M2, Canada. PHONE +1 416-661-6600.

If you want to be among the biggest existing all-natural habitat on the Toronto beachfront, make your method to Tommy Thompson Park. One of one of the most fascinating things about the city park is that it lies on the Leslie Road Split, a synthetic peninsula that stretches out 5 kilometres right into Lake Ontario. The location is home to whatever from cobble coastlines and also sand dunes, to marshes and wildflower meadows. This is likewise a good spot for bird enjoying in Toronto.

The article “ 10 of the Prettiest Places in Toronto “ was first appeared on tripsavvy.com

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[golfiya000-blog]

Golf in Scotland - Regional Golf Course Guide and Where to Play Golf in Scotland

Over 550 years ago, golf was born in Scotland. It was not the fastest growing sport by any means as by 1850, there were less than 20 golf courses in Scotland.

However, by the early 1900's there was 275 and today there are more than 550 golf courses throughout Scotland. Figures suggest than 1 in 10 play golf and when you are out traveling, Scotland is simply littered with golf courses at every turn and you can always see someone pulling or pushing their golf trolley down the pavement.

Scotland is the Home of Golf and as you would expect the Scottish Golf Courses are second to none.

Golf was originally played by the sea and the first links golf courses were born. Today, Scotland boosts many of the worlds greatest including the hallowed turf of St Andrews Old Course to the last major arrival on the Open Tour, Turnberry which today is often hailed as the best golf courses in Scotland.

Southwest Scotland Golf

Argyll, The Isles, Ayrshire, Dumfries & Galloway

Every region of Scotland is literally littered with a lifetime of quality golf courses, links, parklands and moorlands included. But the Southwest of Scotland stretches from Gretna in the south to Oban in the north offering over 100 golf courses combined with stunning scenery and tourist attractions at every stage.

Wherever you start your visit, we would recommend that you take a trip to the Isle of Arran where you will find 7 courses to choose from. Our personal favorite would be Shiskine, with Brodick and Lamlash close behind. A new course is Machrihanish Dunes which is receiving wide acclaim as one of the newest links courses in Scotland. It sits on the Mull of Kintye.

Ayeshire is a golfers paradise with Open Championship courses to test all golfers - Royal Troon and Alisa (Turnberry) spring to mind testing all golfers to the limit. Lets not forget Dundonald, the sister course of Loch Lomond. Dundonald was designed by Kyle Phillips who gained worldwide acclaim with Kingsbarns.

Its a magically region with a superb coastline, great accommodation and hospitality and a lifetime of golf.

South East Courses, Scotland

Edinburgh, East Lothian, West Lothian, Boarders

Any visit to Scotland should be combined with a visit to its capital, Edinburgh. What makes Edinburgh unlike any other capital in the world is that its surrounded by the widest selection of the best golf courses - all within 30 min's drive.

The Boarders offer the Dave Thomas designed Roxburghe and nearby in Peebles, Cardrona is set alongside the River Tweed with a stunning backdrop. If you in the region, add Peebles, Minto, Innerleithen and The Hirsel as must plays as all offer challenging golf.

East of Edinburgh is East Lothian - and I think you will find it hard to find any coastal stretch so packed with some of the best links courses to be played. Muirfield is one of the Tour's favorite scottish venues, but combined with the 3 courses at Gullane (No 1 in particular) Cragielaw, Dunbar and my personal favorite North Berwick its an exceptional region less than 30 min's outside of Edinburgh.

Within Edinburgh, you have some courses such as Braids No.1, Duddingston, Bruntsfield Links and Royal Bursges. Just outside and towards the west you have Marriott Dalmahoy a top quality resort with the West Course being one of the best golf courses in Scotland.

Edinburgh is a very vibrant and beautiful city which makes a perfect back drop for a quality golfing holiday or a base from which to start exploring the rest of Scotland.

Central Golf Courses, Scotland

Central

The central region of Scotland is the most populated area of Scotland and it is home to some of the finest inland courses. Many of the courses can be accessed from Glasgow with was the former European City of Culture. Its the creative center of Scotland and with it comes the restaurants, museums, bars and cafes as well as an upbeat nightlife.

Haggs Castle is one of Glasgow's top golf courses having hosted many professional tournaments. It is still regarded as one of the best inland golf courses in the country. Cawder should also be visited.

A little further away is Carluke - which combines beautiful views over the Clude Valley with a quality parkland course. Renfrew Golf Club has been used on various occasions for Open Qualifying and the same goes for Erskine and Ranfurly.

A little further north you will find Loch Lomond, and the Carrick on Loch Lomond which is well worth the visit. It was opened in 2007 and designed by Doug Carrick, the Canadian architect.

Traveling towards Stirling, you will find Stirling Golf Club and Glenbervie, an excellent test of golf. Cross over the River Forth and you will once again be spoilt for choice with Tulliallan, Braehead and Alloa.

The central region of Scotland is another golfing delight. You could spend a year playing the courses in the region and never be bored.

Heartlands Courses, Scotland

Perthshire, Angus, Dundee and Fife

There is no point describing the heartlands region as anything else than a golfing mecca. A list of the worlds best golf courses that would bring most golfers to their knees and if you do desire to play the top golf courses, then there is not better place on earth.

For any visit to this region, a base in St Andrews or nearby is ideal. Just being in St Andrews is a golfing experience that no one could deny. You have the hallowed ground of St Andrews Old Course which you can book a year in advance or enter the daily ballot. The St Andrews Links Trust also has 6 other courses including the new Castle Course. Less than 3 miles away your have St Andrews Fairmont and another 3 miles you will be playing Kingsbarns.

Into Perthshire and you have the jewel of Gleneagles with the Kings, Queens and the PGA Centenary Course host to the Ryder Cup in 2014. Lets not forget the hotel, the Gleneagles Resort, which is 5* luxury in the beautiful Perthshire landscape.

Further north lies the monster of Open Championship golf courses - Carnoustie - a simply unbelievable test of golf with the hotel and bar to recount, relive and re-evaluate your golf full-stop. Its got to be played.

There are also inland parkland courses such as Ladybank which deserves a lot of praise, and lets not forget Scotscraig, Crail or Lundin Links. These courses are often overlooked, but situated anywhere else, they would be the top courses in any region.

The Heartlands is simply a mind blowing experience for any golfer and with so many choices making any choices is hard. We have an in depth knowledge of the region, the golf courses, the golf hotels and how to make it the most memorable golfing trip.

North East Golf Courses, Scotland

Aberdeen & Grampian

The north east of Scotland has over 70 golf courses to choose from and its getting a lot of press at the moment with Donald Trump's new golf course on the move.

Throughout the region, quality golf courses hinge the fantastic links coast. This includes Cruden Bay which is perfectly situated amongst the rolling dunes. And then you have Royal Aberdeen and Murcar running along the coast. Murcar Links staged the Challenge Tour event in 2006 and Royal Aberdeen has hosted a wide range of top competitions including the Seniors Open in 2005 while being the 6th Oldest Club in the world. The Balgownie course is a classic links with 9 holes out and back hugging the shore.

With distilleries and castles everywhere, the region offers a great golfing destination either for short golf breaks or for the long golf holiday.

Newburgh-on-Ythan is another gem south of Aberdeen and lets not forget the Royal Terlair, Peterhead, Fraserburgh or Duff House Royal.

The North East of Scotland combines brilliant golf with excellent value for money. The hospitality is excellent.

Highlands & Island Golf Courses Scotland

The Scottish Highlands offer golfers that something extra special. They combine an unbeatable landscape where simply looking becomes a pleasure, with golf that challenges the very best in Scotland.

Inverness is the capital of the Scottish Highlands and it combines local charms with a bustling city. Nairn, a golfing haven is just a few miles down the road and both Nairn and Nairn Dunbar should be played if possible. And lets not forget Castle Stuart, the new golf resort in the Highlands with the course reopening in April 2010.

Further north, we have what many believe to be the best golf course in the country - Royal Dornoch. The reason it does not feature on the Open Championship Tour is because of far northern location and unpredictable weather. For mere mortal golfers like us - this is fantastic news as the green fees are reasonable and the club retains it personal and loveable character. A few miles away you can also play Brora, a loved and admired golf course by those who know.

If you are looking for remote golfing, keeping heading north and combine the Orkneys or even the Shetlands. Whalsay is Britain's most northerly course.

Working your way over to the west coast, the landscape is personally the best in Scotland and for any golfer visiting this region try and visit Durness Golf Course. Forget the luxuries of manicured greens and perfect lies, Durness Golf Course offers golf as it would have been and golf as it perhaps should be. The 9 hole course has 2 different tees making an 18 hole circuit and if you love golf, you will simply love it. The Par-3 9th/18th hits the ball over the Atlantic and the views are stunning.

We have some expert knowledge of this region so get in touch if you are looking for a golf break or golf holiday. https://golfiya.com/product-category/golf-course/

[marxpobert-blog]

Mauritius is breathtakingly beautiful, but it has so many stories behind it that make it even more fascinating. Lying below the island of Mauritius below the Indian Ocean,  is a lost continent called Maurice that geologists have recently discovered. And if that discovery is not exciting enough, Mauritius gives heaven a complex with its beautiful beaches, lagoons and lakes, mountains and valleys, national parks and fields,  reefs and rainforests. It even has an underwater waterfall, which is believed to be an optical illusion. The coastline that spreads across 330 km has so many beaches around it and is thronged by scuba divers, adventure enthusiasts, beach bums and tourists. While water sports is one of the main things to see in Mauritius, there is more to the island country than sea and sand and there are several unique things to do in Mauritius. There are so many beautiful places in Mauritius from Black River Gorges National Park to La Morne Brabant and a typical Mauritius itinerary includes visits to sugarcane plantations and rum distilleries.  There are vibrant markets in Mauritius, including craft markets while some of the places to see in Mauritius include a day trip to the capital Port Louis.

The home of the now-extinct dodo killed by the colonists was discovered by Portuguese and it eventually became a Dutch, French and British settlement and has an Indian connection with several immigrants who were brought in as labourers to work in the sugar cane fields and other factories. The Aapravasi Ghat in the capital Port Louis was their first port of embarkation and it served as an immigration centre for the indentured labourers. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Most Mauritians even today have Indian roots as they are several communities from Tamilians to Biharis.  However, Tamil is considered an indigenous religion by itself and the community follows “Tamil” Hinduism with temples dedicated to Lord Muruga.  The Indian connection also takes you down to the times when Mahatma Gandhi visited Mauritius and there is even a road named after him. Yet most of the current generation of the islanders have merged with the milieu and are Mauritian citizens speaking the national language of Creole.

I was in Mauritius for a week on invitation from Club Med resorts in Mauritius and while we barely stepped out of the beautiful beach resorts – we did explore the island as well on our Mauritius itinerary. While the Club Med resorts in Mauritius – Club Med La Plantation D’ Albion and Club Med La Pointe Aux Canonniers, are all inclusive resorts in Mauritius, they also organised our trip to some of the beautiful places in Mauritius. Here are my suggestions on some of the places to see in Mauritius including some of the unique things to do in Mauritius as well.

1. Half a day tour of Port Louis

One of the most beautiful places in Mauritius is Port Louis. The capital town of Mauritius has a colonial hangover around it as it was essentially founded by the French. Even today the harbour, one of the places to see in Mauritius is a remnant of the old settlement.  However one of the beautiful places in Mauritius is the Caudan Waterfront, with its food court, commercial complex and craft markets. One of the buildings here is the heritage luxury hotel, Le Labourdonnais. However there are several things to do in Mauritius and you will find many monuments, museums, and markets that you can explore. Besides the Aapravasi Ghat, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, you can also visit the National History Museum, the present home of the dodo and the Blue Penny Museum and the Postage Museum where you can see some of the oldest stamps. The Central Market is one of the main markets of Mauritius vibrant and colourful and does not forget to bring home some souvenirs, especially homemade rum. You can also visit one of the oldest horse racing tracks that can be found at Champ de Mars. Your Mauritius itinerary is not complete if you do not visit a local temple here. There are also several old cathedrals, churches, mosques as well.

2. Casela – World of Adventures

One of the most unique things to do in Mauritius is to visit Casela and lose yourself in a world of adventures. I was almost transported to the game reserves of South Africa as I went on a safari ride in this amusement and wildlife park and encountered the Big Five. Casela set amidst 4500 hectares near Mount Rampart, is one of the beautiful places in Mauritius and the landscape is watered by two rivers – Rivière du Rempart and Tamarin River. Home to several species of wildlife, some of the animals have been born and bred here. Casela prides itself on the wildlife interactions – be it encounters with lions or feeding with the giraffes. One of the unique things to do in Mauritius is to pose with a lion.

The park is divided into three main kingdoms – safari, nature and mountain and includes bird park, safari rides, and wildlife interactions. There are also adventurous activities like zip-lining, quad bike rides, canyoning among others. The Discovery Centre has several entertainment shows as well. You can spend an entire day here but I would recommend at least half a day at Casela. It is one of the most popular places to see in Mauritius.

3. Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth

Have you seen a rainbow on earth? Then look no further. The colours of the “vibyor” are painted vividly in the sand dunes of Chamarel and are referred to as Seven Coloured Earth or in French as Terres des Sept Couleurs. This is probably one of the most unique things to do in Mauritius. Chamarel is a village in Mauritius named after the French and there are several beautiful places to see in Mauritius including the Chamarel Waterfalls and the Ebony Forest.

The locals refer to it as the “Valley of Blacks” and an “amphitheatre of abrupt rocks.” Local coffee is grown here as well. But it is the Seven Coloured Earth that is absolutely breathtaking. Painted in seven vivid shades like a rainbow, these sand dunes are tinged with red, brown, blue, purple, yellow, violet and even a bit of green. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Mauritius. However, the colourful view depends on the weather as well.

The geological formation is a result of the cooling of the molten rock that might be over 3-7 million years old. The sands have settled into layers depicting a colourful pattern and the rains have further created a canvas. However, on a bright sunny morning, you can see the seven distinct colours. Chamarel also has a 19th century dedicated to Saint Anna and the festival of Assumption of Mary is celebrated with great fanfare.

4. The Curious Corner of Chamarel

One of the most unique things to do in Mauritius is to get lost in a world of optical illusions, fantasies, and delusions. Located opposite the Seven Coloured Earth, the Curiosity Corner is actually a house filled with fascinating corners that stimulate your curious mind. Nothing appears as it is supposed to be. Everything is either a mirage or a maze. Sometimes you feel like you have walked into a jigsaw puzzle.

There are rooms with no doors or windows but you will have to find the secret door to get out of it. There are over 40 exhibits here built over 5000 sq feet but some of my favourites include the Mirror Maze where 200 mirrors take you into a world of reflections as you navigate your way through the maze. I was also fascinated by the Upside Down Room and the Laser Music Room. Chamarel is one of the most beautiful places in Mauritius and your Mauritius itinerary is not complete without a bit of curiosity.

5. The Rhumarie de Chamarel

Your Mauritius itinerary is not complete without a visit to The Rhumarie de Chamarel. We were in the rum distillery for lunch but we also did a tour where we also experienced some rum tasting. The distillery is one of the few in Mauritius today which has its own sugarcane plantations that are grown around it. Even the harvest is still done by hand and the fresh-pressed sugar cane juice is then filtered and fermented, distilled and aged and magically transformed into rum. There are different kinds of rums – classic, premium, aged, double distilled and spiced rum, besides liqueurs with vanilla, coffee, and coconut flavors. And it is one of the best ways to experience Mauritius on a high note.

There are many more beautiful places in Mauritius and things to see in Mauritius but in our short span of time, we could only explore a fraction of the island. What would you include in your Mauritius itinerary?

The post Paradise on earth – Beautiful places to see in Mauritius appeared first on Lakshmi Sharath.

[demurely1]

Islay 2019

In early May we set off to visit Islay again, stopping off in Inverarey on the way. While there we visited ancient township Auchindrain. It was a still overcast day and cuckoo and raven were calling in the valley.

We arrived at Kilchoman cottages, Islay on a sunny afternoon.

We were the only walkers in Bridgend woods traversing a muddy and waterlogged Claggan strip. We disturbed a buzzard, a deer, a pheasant with her brood of chicks, a ewe & 2 lambs, a mallard & all her ducklings and saw more bluebells than all I've ever seen before in my life!

The Gruinart trails were filled with willow warblers, chiffchaffs and mining bees. Afterwards we stopped for coffee and cake at Bruichladdich minimarket. 

Back at Kilchoman a golden eagle was mooching about above the crag again and bombing a hen harrier that annoyed it! We took an evening drive round the Saligo-Loch Gorm circuit and saw a field of barnacle geese and golden plover, a field of brown hares, a hen harrier mobbed by two lapwing, another hen harrier quartering a field, stonechat, hooded crows and jackdaws.

On the way to Ardnave we spotted two merlin on the moors near RSPB Gruinart. Chough and wheatear were busy on the dunes - as was this garden tiger moth caterpillar.

There were no corncrakes on the late evening walk round Kilchoman but the resident choughs made themselves known; fulmar and raven called on crag and 4 naughty lambs escaped, raced around the lawn and played king-of-the-castle while their mams baaed behind the gate!

For once it didn’t rain on the Ballygrant walk but there were cuckoos calling at both Loch Ballygrant and Lily Loch (Loch Allan)

and many fewer trees than in previous years. We saw buzzards, lots of cuckoo flowers, primroses and bluebells along the way. Afterwards there was coffee and cake at Labels.

The next day was wet so we drove to Ardbeg distillery for lunch.

On our last full day we revisited Islay Woollen Mill for another two woollen throws. Then as usual to Portnahaven and An Tigh Seinnse for lunch. 

The grey seals were still lazing on the sandbank.

Back at Kilchoman the lambs were still being naughty.

[ravensong67-blog]

Orange County Weekend Events Roundup November 1-4

Celebrate Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) at Bowers Museum.

From outdoor festivals to musical performances, check out the top Orange County weekend events for November 1-4.

Edited by Whitney Lauren Han.

EVENTS

Dark Harbor Through Nov. 2. Named one of the top 10 most haunted places on Earth by TIME magazine, Southern California’s most terrifyingly authentic haunt has risen from the deep, dripping with history of the infamously haunted ship. Dark Harbor’s resident spirits include Ringmaster, Captain, Samuel the Savage, Graceful Gale, Half-Hatch Henry, Iron Master, Scary Mary, Voodoo Priestess and Chef. See website for times. $20+. The Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 562.499.1739. queenmary.com

Big Adventure Fest Nov. 3-4. Get ready for this two-day music, comedy and gaming festival at the OC Fair & Event Center. Featured performers include Empire of the Sun, Modest Mouse, Cold War Kids, Patton Oswalt and Jim Jefferies.  Leading and celebrated figures from comics, film and TV will be in attendance to engage with fans, showcase art, discuss their craft in exclusive panels, sign autographs and more. Noon-10 p.m. See website for ticket prices. 88 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa. bigadventurefest.com

Tropicália Fest Nov. 3-4. Grab your tickets to this two-day music and taco festival that will take place at the Queen Mary Park. Headlining the fest will be British singer Morrissey and rapper Cardi B. Other confirmed acts include Kali Uchis, Mac Demarco, Chicano Batman, Mazzy Star and more. Doors 11 a.m., show at noon. See website for ticket prices. 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, 855.414.6141. tropicaliafest.com

Newport Dunes Triathlon Nov. 4. Get your blood pumping at these inaugural Olympic and sprint distance races in Newport Dunes. Before the annual event, come the night before for the “Tri-cation” camping experience with RV or tent camping options just steps from the race course. Available on site are food trucks, s’mores and an outdoor family movie the evening prior to the event. 7 a.m. $50-$150 triathlon, $20 tri-cation. Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, 1131 Back Bay Dr., Newport Beach, 949.729.3863. newportdunes.californiatriathlon.org

FOOD + DRINK

The Blind Pig Kitchen + Bar New Fall Menu Items Now Available. Executive Chef Karl Pfleider has added new items to the menu to celebrate the seasonal fall produce. New items include the goat cheese tortelli, pan seared Ling cod and the grilled octopus (pictured). Pair the new dishes with one of Bar Manager Ryan Autry’s craft cocktails, like the Third Time’s A Charm, made with Genever, campari, cacao, bitter vermouth, blood orange, lemon and brown ale. See website for hours. 31431 Santa Margarita Pkwy., Rancho Santa Margarita, 949.888.0072. theblindpigoc.com

Brunch at Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse Now Available. Newly-opened Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse is now serving brunch featuring signature dishes include the egg white frittata, crab cake Benedict and the beef tenderloin. Davio’s brunch will also offer pastas, fish and steak entrees, a selection of pizzas and panini, and more. To complete the experience, guests can build their own bloody mary from the roving cart during brunch service. Su 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Irvine Towers, 18420 Von Karman Ave., Irvine, 949.477.4810. davios.com

Chateaubriand at Mastro’s Now Available. Savor the “special holiday steak feature” at Mastro’s this holiday season. This steak is a large center-cut roast of the finest beef tenderloin that Mastro’s has to offer. Best served at medium rare to medium, the tender and juicy steak is sliced and served tableside by your server with bearnaise sauce and peppercorn sauce on the side. $115. Mastro’s Steakhouse, 633 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa, 714.546.7405; Mastro’s Ocean Club, 8112 E. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, 949.376.6990. mastrosrestaurants.com

Far Niente Winery Dinner Nov. 3. Experience Studio’s Chef Ben Martinek’s decadent five-course dinner featuring wine pairings from Far Niente Winery. The evening begins with hors d’oeuvres including Kona kampachi tartare and lobster fritters paired with Chardonnay. Main courses such as cured Baja striped bass, seared La Belle Farms duck breast, grilled dry aged strip steak and Thai long pepper-spiced venison loin. End the night with Rogue River Blue Cheese and charred blackberries served with Dolce, Napa Valley 2007. 6 p.m. $250. Montage Laguna Beach, 30801 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.6420. montagehotels.com

Aquavit Week Nov. 4-10. Bottoms up for the 7th annual aquavit week in North America and Europe! Several restaurants and bars in SoCal will be offering a featured aquavit (Scandinavian clear spirit) cocktail for the occasion. At Blinking Owl Distillery, you can enjoy their aquavit several ways: neat, chilled or on the rocks, not to mention in a variety of Aquavit cocktails such as the Tiki, Do You Love Me? or try the Long Owland Iced Tea. Other participating bars and restaurants include A&O Kitchen, ARC, The Blind Rabbit, El Mercado, Playground and more. aquavitweek.com

Sip ‘n’ Shuck at The Deck on Laguna Beach Nov. 4. Come hungry to the 6th annual Sip ‘n’ Shuck tasting and fundraising experience. Indulge in a variety of hand-shucked oysters, Champagne and sparkling wines, all while enjoying panoramic ocean views at the oceanfront restaurants. Beverages will be provided courtesy of Casamigos Tequila, Laguna Beach Beer Company, Nolet’s, Veuve Clicquot, Bianchi Winery, Tito’s Vodka and more. 21+. VIP entry 1 p.m., GA 2-6 p.m. $125 pre-sale, $150 VIP. Pacific Edge Hotel, 627 Sleepy Hollow Lane, Laguna Beach, 949.494.6700. sipnshuck.com

ARTS + CULTURE

Lea Michele and Darren Criss Nov. 2. Actors and vocalists Lea Michele and Darren Criss come to Segerstrom Center as they continue their wildly successful LM/DC Tour on the West Coast. 7:30 p.m. $39+. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787. scfta.org

OCMAExpand-Santa Ana Open House Nov. 3. Explore the Orange County Museum of Art’s new OCMAExpand-Santa Ana in a former retail space until the museum’s new home is completed at nearby Segerstrom Center for the Arts in 2021. Exhibiting artists Rodrigo Valenzuela, Mariángeles Soto-Díaz, Valentina Jager, Alan Nakagawa and Kathryn Garcia will engage with visitors through talks and performances. Th 11 a.m.-8 p.m., F-Su 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Free admission and parking. South Coast Plaza Village, 1661 W. Sunflower Ave., Santa Ana, 714.780.2130. ocmaexpand.org

Dia de Los Muertos Celebration Nov. 4. Continuing their interactive Family Festival Series, Bowers Museum invites the community to celebrate Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Join the celebration and enjoy pan dulce with Mexican hot chocolate, face painting, special art projects and performances by Rhythmo Mariachi Kids, Folklorico Raices de Mexico, Trio Tres Souls, and Xipe Totec Danza Azteca. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free admission with $15 purchase of Knights in Armor ticket. 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.480.1520. bowers.org

Quartetto di Cremona Nov. 4. International chamber ensemble Quartetto di Cremona takes center stage in the Salmon Recital Hall at the Musco Center for the Arts. The quartet is an ambassador for the international “Friends of Stradivari” project and plays the Stradivarius “Paganini Quartet” with instruments on loan from the Nippon Music Foundation, which includes the same violin played by famed virtuoso violinist Henri Temianka. 4 p.m. See website for ticket prices. Chapman University, 415 N. Glassell, Orange, 844.626.8726. muscocenter.org

The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor and Newport Dunes Triathlon photos courtesy of The ACE Agency. Big Adventure Fest photo courtesy Big Adventure Fest. Tropicália Fest photo by Tyler Hagen. The Blind Pig Kitchen + Bar New Fall Menu Items and Brunch at Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse photos courtesy Ajenda PR. Chateaubriand at Mastro’s photo courtesy Murphy O’Brien Public Relations. Far Niente Winery Dinner photo courtesy Marguarite Clark Public Relations. Aquavit Week photo courtesy FWD PR. Sip ‘n’ Shuck at The Deck on Laguna Beach photo courtesy Sip ‘n’ Shuck. Lea Michele and Darren Criss photo courtesy Segerstrom Center for the Arts. OCMAExpand-Santa Ana Open House photo by Bliss Photography. Dia de Los Muertos Celebration photo courtesy Bowers Museum. Quartetto di Cermona photo courtesy The ACE Agency.

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Source: https://socalpulse.com/blog/recent/2018/10/31/orange-county-weekend-events-roundup-november-1-4/

[despinanewman-blog]

The great Namibia road trip: the 3rd leg

Our next part of our trip was to the majestic Fish River Canyon, the second largest canyon in the world, and then on to Luderitz.

The road to the canyon was going to be our first experience of Namibia’s gravel roads. They were far better than anticipated, so good in fact they almost felt like tar. The drive was also incredibly scenic, with many beautiful hills and barrenness, with the odd buck alongside the road.

Once inside the Canon National Park, the road deteriorated significantly but it was still manageable for our Corolla (although we are unsure if this may be where we damaged our first tyre). It was well worth the difficult trip though, with the view we were greeted with:

The strange thing about this park is how the viewing deck is actually a bit obstructive and not in the best spot for viewing the canyon, so we simply drove further down the path to get the view above.

There were also hikers who were about to start a trek through the canyon’s valley. Given the extreme temperatures here (the hottest we experienced on our journey), I don’t know how they managed.

After being in the heat of the day, we decided to visit the famous Canyon Roadhouse close to the canyon for some refreshments. It was an interesting little place, decorated with the frames of long-dead cars.

The inside of the roadhouse is also decorated interestingly, and you can pick up a bunch of Namibian crafts.

After we had recovered from the morning’s adventure, it was off to Luderitz - a small coastal town on the Atlantic, and our first time seeing the sea on the trip. On the road to our destination, we came across a gem of a place. We thought our eyes were tricking us as we saw an oasis of green after a long drive through emptiness. It looked like a giant strip of land full of palm trees! A bit further down the path, it started to make sense. There was a wonderful distillery that made liqueur out of the fruits from these trees. They turned out to be date palms, and the distillery manufactured date brandy or dandy! They gave us a free tasting and tour - naturally, I bought a bottle for us to enjoy on the rest of our trip.

They said they may start importing these to South Africa soon!

After we recovered from this tipsy pit stop, we continued on our way. I couldn’t resist when we saw the “Wild Horses” sign by the town of Aus. The road leading to the horses was mainly stone, and is another suspect for our first broken tyre that we discovered later on. But the scene was spectacular and I’m glad we braved it.

Apparently the horses were left behind by the Germans after the war, and they somehow manage to survive out here (I really don’t know how).

A short drive on from here, we made it to Luderitz. This town truly is tiny and surrounded by beautiful dunes. It also has a cute hollywood-style “Luderitz” sign as you drive in.

It was our friends’ anniversary that day, so as soon as we made it into town and unpacked our bags, we gave them the car and went off on our own adventure. This included walking almost the entire length of the town on foot, seeing all the major landmarks, and visiting the waterfront/harbour.

Eventually after ambling around the town for a bit, we found the best food gem of our trip: Diaz coffee shop. While this doesn’t sound like the right place for a feast, it was a surprising hit for the freshest, cheapest seafood around! Bearing in mind that R1 = N$1, we got a ridiculously affordable meal. And it was super fresh!

Something very new to me was baked oysters. Delicious! Oysters have never been my favourite but baked, they are a different thing altogether. I also really enjoyed the cute decor of this place; it had benches made of drift wood and buoys, and tables made of fishing net. 

Another new discovery here was Vigo, a drink similar to grapetiser in South Africa, but with flavours like marula and kiwano (African horned melon).

After our lovely supper, we climbed above the rocky hill behind our accommodation that overlooked the harbour.

[wikitopx]

The city of Eugene lies in the Oregon State of the United States.

Home to the University of Oregon, Eugene is thus bustling with young talent and crowd and frequent visitors. The city of Waldport enjoys a summertime Mediterranean climate and it is home to various nature parks and attractions, offering a wide range of outdoor activities to indulge in. The city is full of life and thus a great place for family and friends to hang out. It’s a major tourist spot in the USA, full of places to try great seafood and enjoy the lively nightlife. Such is the vibrant life that you can enjoy so many things on your trip here. For your ease, we have highlighted some of the best things to do in Eugene, Oregon, for a fun-filled trip.

1. Explore the Eugene Distillery trail

The best way to start your journey in Eugene is by probably sampling some wines. The city of Oregon is known for various distilleries like Deep Woods, Heritage, Thinking tree, and Wolf Spirits, which are a part of the Eugene Distillery trail. These places are where you can indulge in artisan spirits, freshly made and available in a variety. There are four unique tasting rooms each with a speciality which you sample and still not get enough of it. Such is the flavours of the wines. At some places, exquisite whisky, vodka, gin and liqueurs are also available. Most of these are sustainable distilleries so also thumbs up to the environment.

2. Dive into the adventure world of Puzzling Adventures

This is for smart, adventure seekers. Each adventure consists of a series of locations that you are guided to, from where you are required to answer questions or solve puzzles to receive your next instruction. All you need is your own mobile device and an Internet connection. Sounds like a treasure hunt and fun, right? Don’t miss this on your next visit to Eugene, whether you are with family or friends, as it is suitable for all ages. You can also go at your own pace!

3. Enjoy a complete tour of Eugene City

This tour takes you on a three- to four-hour ride to visit various important and interesting landmarks and attractions of the city. The tour will take you to Valley River Inn, Hyatt Place Hotel and 5th Street Public Market. You will see attractions like Skinners Butte Park and Summit, Whitaker Neighbourhood, Rose Garden, Shelton McMurphey Johnson house, Museum of Natural and Cultural History, University of Oregon and more. Don’t wait for a good time, get it by booking the tour online.

4. Enjoy an urban street art tour

Oregon is a hub of artists and that also reflects in the street art in Eugene. The art tour operates every Monday from 9 am to 12 pm and takes you to different streets with jaw-dropping mural works by artists like Ila Rose, Hua Tunan, Blek Le Rat and Steven Lopez. These contemporary artists have converted the plain walls into works of art and really deserve applause. The artists have used themes like earth, western graffiti, space invasion using stencil art and even hip hop culture. Book a tour to admire and capture the essence of art in Eugene.

5. A mix of Eugene highlights combined with wine tasting

As much fun as it sounds, this perfect combo tour is possible and can easily be booked online. Explore the city of Eugene and go wine tasting in the Willamette Valley on this guided, small-group tour. You can visit Eugene’s most-popular attractions like Skinner’s Butte, the University of Oregon, Owen Rose Garden, and more. After sightseeing, you can go wine tasting at three local vineyards in the south valley. What more can you ask for with fun and wine combined? Your transportation from the central meeting point is also free, and you can choose between the full tour of 9 hours or small individual tours of 30 minutes to 1 hour.

6. Ashland

Lying in the southern part of the state near the California border, Ashland is a picturesque place that acts as a cultural capital for the region. Running for an incredible nine months of the year, the festival is largely responsible for the upmarket restaurants and hotels that are found around town. Away from the festival, the lively streets buzz with life and there are some trendy boutiques and bars that are worth checking out. With Mount Ashland not far away, you can go skiing in the winter. The area’s fine wineries will make you want to stay even longer!

7. Florence

Explore a little further, however, and you’ll find the quiet and secluded Old Town neighborhood, which paints Florence in a completely different light. Lying another to the Siuslaw River, its beautiful harbor may be a enchant, and the waterfront portion of town is especially captivating to investigate. With the Oregon Dunes National Recreational Area adjacent, there's more than sufficient in Florence to warrant a visit.

8. Newport

With a huge fishing fleet calling Newport home and a delightful, historic bay front, it is fair to say that maritime life pervades every aspect of life in the city. There’s a world-class aquarium in town, and sea lions frolic in the bay area. Kitschy souvenir shops can be found amidst the small art galleries and delicious seafood restaurants. A popular tourist destination, Newport has a laidback, welcoming feel to it, and looking out over the ocean or lounging on its fantastic beaches is an idyllic affair.

9. Hood River

With lots of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants dominating the center of town, Hood River has numerous sides to it. Its perfect location on the Columbia River means that it is one of the best places in the world to windsurf or kitesurf. The strong winds and currents converge to create the perfect environment in which to take to the waters – watersports lovers descend en-masse upon the city to enjoy all that it has to offer. With some fantastic wineries in the surrounding regions and an orchard-filled valley nearby, Hood River is a surprisingly great place to stop by.

10. Lincoln City

Lying on the coast, this sprawling city is more affordable than most places that overlook the ocean. That is in large part because the expansive beaches are not particularly attractive to gaze upon. While it is certainly not the fanciest place in the world, Lincoln City has lots of nice hikes in the surrounding coastal regions and is a pleasant, unpretentious city to kick back in.

Here are a few more ideas for what to do in the area: things to do in Door County

  From : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-eugene-701927.html

[kirklandrvsales]

West Coast Road Trip Itinerary: 10 Destinations that Will Blow Your Mind

With the fast approach of summer, many RV owners are making sure their motorhomes are road-ready for their upcoming travels. Of course, one of the biggest aspects of preparing for your summer vacation is planning the perfect road trip itinerary!

To help you prepare, we at Kirkland RV have created this West Coast Road Trip Itinerary of our favorite destinations along the Pacific Ocean.

The West Coast is a beautiful slice of America. With gorgeous landscapes, breathtaking beaches, and lush forests to offer travelers, it’s no wonder that many RV owners plan to drive down the West Coast during the summer months.

This itinerary starts in Seattle, ends in San Francisco, and features 10 destinations along the West Coast that will blow your mind and give you lots to talk about with your friends and family when you return home.

West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 1: The Olympic Peninsula

Our itinerary begins in Seattle, Washington. After filling up on a hearty breakfast at Portage Bay Cafe, drive north and take the Edmonds ferry to Kingston.

Now that you’re on the Olympic Peninsula, drive west on Highway 104 until it hits Highway 101. Turn right, onto 101 and drive north.

After 1 hour on Highway 101, you will arrive at your first destination — Lake Crescent. Lake Crescent is a long and incredibly deep lake nestled up against the Olympic Mountains. The water is a stunning blue and there is a variety of attractions around the lake for you to choose from. Options include the picturesque Marymere Falls trail, Pyramid Mountain, and the Devil’s Punchbowl (a shockingly-deep swimming hole).

A few other notable destinations on the Olympic Peninsula include:

Gorgeous Rialto Beach, where you can walk north along the ocean to witness the famous Hole-In-The-Wall.

Ruby Beach, where you can watch the sunset against rugged sea-rocks.

Quinault Rain Forest Trailhead, for a short ½ mile hike and a taste of Washington State’s rainforest ecosystem.

  Day 2: The Northern Oregon Coast

After a full day of exploring the national parks of Washington, day 2 of your West Coast road trip focuses on more developed tourist attractions along Highway 101.

As soon as you cross the border into Oregon, stop in Astoria for two famous tourist attractions. The first is a climb up the Astoria Column for stunning views of the Oregon coast from 126 feet, and the second — for something on the wild side — visit the docks on the north side of the city for views of the famous Sea Lions of Astoria (yes, actual sea lions).

Next, drive a short 10 minutes south of Astoria to visit the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park. Here you can explore a replica Fort Clatsop and witness how the Corps of Discovery spent their winter on the West Coast.

Get back on Highway 101 and drive 40 more minutes south to take photos in front of the massive Haystack Rock, a shoreline rock formation that offers incredible views and access to marine life in its tide pools.

Other notable tourist attractions along Oregon’s northern portion of Highway 101 include:

The Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad, for a seaside ride on a historic steam engine train.

Tillamook Creamery, for a delicious dinner meal and tour of the iconic cheese factory.

Tillamook County Pioneer Museum, to learn about pioneer life in early Oregon.

Devil’s Punchbowl Arch and Cobble Beach, for breathtaking views of the rocky Oregon coast and the Pacific Ocean.

  Day 3: The Southern Oregon Coast

Start your day off at Thor’s Well — a seemingly bottomless sinkhole in the rocky shore that acts like it’s trying to swallow the entire Pacific Ocean. Then drive south on Highway 101 for 20 minutes until you reach Heceta Head Lighthouse. Spend an hour here enjoying the walk up to the lighthouse, the mind-blowing views, and conversation with the very knowledgeable park volunteers.

If you’re in the mood for wildlife, drive 5 minutes farther south to the Sea Lion Caves in Florence. Or, for some more exhilarating activities, drive 30 minutes farther to the famous Oregon Sand Dunes for some off-roading, sand-boarding, and hiking.

Other notable destinations along the southern Oregon coast include:

Stillwagon Distillery, for some delicious craft rum tasting.

West Coast Game Park Safari, a 21-acre zoo that features emus, Bengal tigers, snow leopards, and capybaras.

Prehistoric Gardens, located in Ophir, this dinosaur forest walk will surprise you with guest appearances from the land before time!

  Day 4: Northern California

Within 40 minutes of crossing the California border, you will reach Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park. If there aren’t cars behind you, make sure to slow down as you drive through the park, or stop at one of the trailheads so that you can get out and appreciate the size of the giant redwood trees.

For a true “touristy” redwood experience, stop at the Trees of Mystery attraction for a tram ride and a sighting of giant Paul Bunyan, or drive a bit farther south to the Klamath Tour Thru Tree and pay $5 to drive or walk through a giant redwood tree.

Other notable attractions along the northern California stretch of Highway 101 include:

Big Tree Wayside, a massive 1,500-year-old redwood tree that is 300 feet tall and 68 feet around.

McKinleyville Totem Pole, at 160 feet, it’s said to be the world’s tallest totem pole and is carved from a 500-year-old redwood.

Confusion Hill, an attraction that manipulates the laws of nature and gravity to mess with your mind and make you wonder if it is actually possible to walk on walls.

One Log House, to see a tiny house constructed inside the trunk of a giant redwood tree.

Frey Vineyards Winery, for some delicious organic wine tasting.

  Day 5: The Drive Into San Francisco

Your last couple hours on Highway 101 shift away from the ocean and meander inland. Here you will find food and wine country. Notable wineries and vineyards on this stretch of 101 include:

Rivino, a boutique family winery, here you can taste small batch wine grown and produced along the Russian River.

Jaxon Keys Winery & Distillery, for wine tasting on an open patio and views of the lush valley.

J Vineyards & Winery, for delicious wine and cheese before arriving in San Francisco.

Before the end of the day you will find yourself crossing the Golden Gate Bridge and entering San Francisco. Your West Coast road trip itinerary may be done, but your exploring doesn’t need to be! Make sure to schedule a few days of sightseeing for San Francisco before beginning the journey back home.

Itching to get on the road but lacking an RV? Make this summer road trip itinerary come true for you by stopping by Kirkland RV and finding the perfect RV for you and your family. Contact our team of RV experts today to ask about the RV’s we carry.

The post West Coast Road Trip Itinerary: 10 Destinations that Will Blow Your Mind appeared first on Kirkland RV Sales Everett WA.

via Kirkland RV Sales Everett WA http://kirklandrvsales.com/west-coast-road-trip-itinerary/

[travelguideworldtour-blog]

Top 10 Places to visit in Antigua and Barbuda

One of many very destinations the Caribbean offers, the duo of Barbuda and Antigua is supposed to possess just only stretch of sand! And if no one is quite certain whether the count is true (we doubt anybody’s was able to checkout most of of the beaches), there isn’t any wonder that a number of the very tiny coves and inlets are being one of the most exquisite on the planet.

They run together using oodles of sun bathing spots on Barbuda out of the powder of Beach and fauna chances on the road. However, these islands are somewhat a lot more than just sand and sea; there is experience and history . Visitors determine where frigates could have uttered from the 1700s can have a look at sets out of stingray-packed coral reefs into English fortresses and miracle in cliff faces.

  Nelson’s Dockyard

For at least 250 decades, boats of all sizes and shapes have now already been drifting in to the seas of Nelson’s Dockyard, by the outdated cannon-topped frigates of their colonial British forces at the 1700s into the white yachts which billow from Freeman’s Bay now. Antigua and Barbuda’s historical jewel as a whole is a heritage appeal that is recorded.

Visitors roam involving the ruins of their boat-house along with Sail Loft, watch a anchor left from the British warships which came in this manner, and may observe the naval capstans liner the water’s edge.

  Stingray City

Stingray City does just what it says give you a peek at pods of the beams as they slide under the Caribbean Sea’s seas. The location are available outside of Willikies town north between your reefs.

Travelers start your afternoon together with classes about the best way best to take care of the variety of beam of the island, before going outside into the shallows and linking them to get a session. It is the the right experience for everybody desperate to acquire up close and personal with the curious lifestyle of the region.

  Shirley Heights

Looming almost 500 feet is where people may come across Shirley Heights’ ridges . Paths over the mountains out town will be exactly the things accept passengers, and also the entry fee is a part of the purchase price of tickets.

The perspectives are all they’re cracked up to be with all this Caribbean’s deep-blue giving solution into the southwest into mountain Guadeloupe’s silhouette, and also Antigua’s undulations shining in colors of emerald.

  Falmouth Harbour

Can be an all refuge in the form of a horse shoe. The sanctuary hosts a lot of superyachts. People who’re there to get a protracted stay or using their boats could remain in the accommodation that is local, or may make use of the sanctuary facilities, including as container storage dockage, and companies.

Visitors that are going to the website for each day may consume the views, examine the vessels that are magnificent, and float at a few of local restaurants and restaurants.

  Betty’s Hope

After the very first settlers detected the fertile lands of Antigua were ideal for increasing crops, founded back at the 1650s, the plantation called the Hope of Betty stands on the hawaiian islands as a reminder of their background of slave ownership.

The site was revived to demonstrate a number while excavations have discovered that the rum distillery and servant quarters of those windmills which were used to crush on the harvest and extract the juice. An visitor’s centre showcases a group of tools utilised from the manufacturing process.

  17-mile Beach

Forget the promise of Negril to seven kilometers of sands over on Jamaica, Barbuda’s un-trodden and untouched isle, place involving the Caribbean waters north of Antigua that is builtup, houses a 17 kilometers of these material! It runs over the border of this island, divided by the seas of a lagoon that is brackish, and backed by spots of sand deserts and sea turtles.

Vacant and deserted, the yacht stinks by along with the winds are for carrying the edge from the heat that is tropical, fantastic — it is the ideal pick for walkers and beachcombers!

  Devil’s Bridge

Clambering out from the Atlantic’s rollers, where in fact the trade winds that are billowing match with the rocky coast of Antigua, Devil’s Bridge can be geological wonder and a stunning. Eroded by the onslaught of these waves, it’s the means by which the fracture that is swells radically and famed because of its rugged look, equaling such as geysers from blow holes and the stones across Indian Town Point.

The location can also be inscribed in a macabre history, along with sailors (particularly the elderly ones) understand it since the spot where escaped slaves could return to perpetrate suicide!

  Rendezvous Bay

Hidden far from Antigua’s roads and streets with way of a dash of hills along with sand dunes, Rendezvous Bay is not the simplest shore on the island. But there is its elegance. Secluded and empty, the spot can be reached from Falmouth town’s outskirts. And boy is it worthwhile! Sands abut the backing track is formed by an ocean of Skyblue loom to the breezes along with the hillsides.

There are a number of tour operators that offer coordinated excursions to Rendezvous Bay — perfect for those who fancy a little company.

  Valley Church Beach

Of the 365 (people state one ) shores of Barbuda and Antigua across the islands, that strip of talcum powder sand which abuts Lignum Vitae Bay’s seas could very well be the most quintessential. Seeing for any shore enthusiast that was given, the location could be found only south outside of Jolly Harbour.

It’s got a financing of mangroves and dunes, and can be framed by slopes to the south and north west. And for people that fall in love you will find guest houses and cabanas on offer a stone’s throw away from the coast!

  Fort Barrington

Crowning the shirts of these seas and stones only west out St. John’s, the historical bulwarks and crenulations of all Fort Barrington were raised by the British in the 1770s. Their occupation was to control the water stations running in and outside to fend for other forces along with attacks.

They lie in ruins, but give you a glance that is haunting at the histories of both of these isles Now. Travelers will find by Deep Bay Beach or even Yepton’s northeast, and switch between your cannons to obtain views of the Montserrat volcano!

                      Top 10 Places to visit in Antigua and Barbuda

[bulgarianmermaid]

Without a single snowflake in sight in December in Colorado, my initial plans to snowboard every mountain fell through and I headed down south to Buena Vista and Salida to explore a slice of heaven that I got a glimpse of once before last year during our first ColoRADical Road Trip 🙂

How did I miss taking Independence Pass south from Aspen to the Arkansas River Valley in summer, paddling on the river, playing in whitewater rapids, soaking in hot springs, and hiking the adjacent Collegiate Peaks, I do not know and still kick myself in the foot… I remember this area to be chock full of vistas, hiking and biking opportunities, water sports, and quaint towns with wonderful people and my recent visit did not disappoint!

Salida is the biggest town in Chaffee County, CO and is said to have the largest preserved historic district in CO. The town is indeed absolutely adorable, very pedestrian and tourist friendly, with an abundance of coffee shops, breweries, distilleries, wineries, and local eateries, EVEN life music multiple nights a week!

In terms of activities, it offers everything you could look for and then some. The 14,000 ft Collegiate Peaks provide some world class terrain for hiking and camping, the Arkansas River has rapids to be envied by any other white water area. Mountain biking is another popular activity and there are a few shops to serve all your biking needs. Fishing and hunting as well as horse back riding are widely available. Dog sledding, back country skiing, snow shoe hiking are popular in winter and Monarch Mountain, famous for its waist deep powder is only 30min away. Methodist Mountain, which is a major feature on Salida’s southern horizon, is the northernmost mountain in the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range.

Salida also has mountain biking and hiking trails right in town on Tenderfoot Mountain and the Arkansas River offers both world class challenge in its rapids and family-friendly floating in its calm bends. I highly recommend the Sand Dunes trail and if you follow it for a while you will see real sand dunes (after all Salida is only an hour from Colorado Sand Dunes National Monument) 🙂

A couple of yoga studios with full schedules will keep you stretched after all the outdoor fun! And it never hurts to have a coffee shop right next to the yoga studio #butwhichonefirst?!

Woods Distillery is another highlight in town, offers a mean homemade Sazerac and was featured in the latest edition of Edible Aspen .

If you happen to be in Salida in November and December, do check the Riverwalk lights and look at the Christmas Tree above town at night. It is quite romantic indeed!

During our first ColoRADical road trip we were told not to bother stopping in Poncha Springs as there was nothing good there. I decided to prove people wrong and found there are hot springs, a brewery, and a winery in town. #goodenoughbyme

Vino Salida Wine Cellars – the only good thing in Poncha Springs #notreally 🙂  It is always the small, overlooked places that impress me with their local charm! The local soil and climate makes some fantastic reds and if you are a doing a tasting don’t miss the Tenderfoot Stomp – a full-bodied red made by grapes stomped by the community during the annual Fall equinox harvest fest.

No visit to Southern Colorado would be complete without checking out a few hot springs. Luckily, the Arkansas Valley is chock-full of them. You can opt for the more luxurious and resort-like Mt Princeton Hot Springs or you can drive up Cottonwood Pass and frequent the locals’ favorite rustic Cottonwood Hot Springs. Cottonwood Pass has been closed for paving last 2 years but the hot springs are open, the nature is pristine and gorgeous, people are nowhere to be found off-season and hiking trails are plenty!

My personal favorite are the clothing optional, off-grid, situated in a commune, super hippie Valley View Hot Springs down in the San Luis Valley at the foothills of Sangre de Cristo Mountains. More on them and that part of Colorado in another post!

Buena Vista is half the size of Salida but by no means it is half the fun! It boasts the oldest American whitewater festival – FIBark – in June and I say you don’t want to miss it 🙂 It is called Buena Vista for a reason…you wouldn’t know which side to turn to to photograph, especially in early Summer (wildflowers) or Fall (foliage)!

Beautiful Views of Buena Vista and Salida, CO Without a single snowflake in sight in December in Colorado, my initial plans to snowboard every mountain fell through and I headed down south to Buena Vista and Salida to explore a slice of heaven that I got a glimpse of once before last year during our first…

[topsolarpanels]

Put us on the map, please: China’s smaller cities go wild for starchitecture

From mountain-shaped apartment blocks to the centre of braised chicken reinventing itself as Solar Valley, Chinas second( and third) tier cities are hiring big-name architects to get them noticed

From egg-shaped concert hall to skyscrapers reminiscent of big pairs of pants, Chinas top cities are famously full of curious monuments to architectural ambition. But as land costs in the main metropolises have shot into the stratosphere, developers have been scrambling to buy up plots in the countrys second and third-tier cities, spawning a new generation of delirious plans in the provinces. President Xi Jinping may have issued a directive last year prohibiting oversized, xenocentric, weird houses, but many of these schemes were already well under way; his diktat has proved to be no obstacle to mayoral hubris yet.

From Harbin City of Music to Dezhou Solar Valley, provincial capitals are branding themselves as themed enclaves of culture and industry to attract inward investment, and commissioning ratings of bold buildings to match. Even where there is no demand, city bureaucrats are relentlessly selling off land for developing, hawking plots as the primary form of income accounting for 80% of municipal revenues in some cases. In the last two months alone, 50 Chinese cities received a total of 453 bn yuan( 54 bn) from land auctions, a 73% increase on last year, and its the provincial capitals that are resulting the way.

At the same time, Xis national culture drive has find countless museums, concert halls and opera houses spring up across the country, often used as sweeteners for land bargains, conceived as the pearls at the centre of glistening mixed-used visions( that sometimes never arrive ). Culture, said Xi, is a precondition of the great renaissance of the Chinese people, but it has also proved to be a powerful lubricant for ever more real estate supposition even if the production of content to fill these great vestibules cant quite keep up with the insatiable build boom. From mountain-shaped apartment blocks to cavernous libraries, heres a glimpse of whats emerging in the regions.

Fake Hills, Beihai

A render of how the Fake Hills would look. Illustration: MAD architects

Forming an 800 metre-long cliff-face along the coast of the southern port city of Beihai, the Fake Hills housing block is the work of Ma Yansong, Chinas homegrown conjuror of sinuous, globular sorts whose practise is appropriately named MAD. Having examined at Yale and worked with Zaha Hadid in London, where he nourished his penchant for blobs, Ma has spent the last decade dreaming up improbable mountain-shaped megastructures across the country.

Less scenic mountain and more lumpen collision of colossal cruise-liners The first phase of construction on Fake Hills has been completed. Photograph: MAD

As it rises and falls, the undulating roofline of Fake Hills kinds terraces for badminton and tennis tribunals, as well as a garden and swimming pool. Sadly the overall impact is less scenic mountain range than a lumpen collision of colossal cruise-liners.

Greenland Tower, Chengdu

Greenland Tower, Chengdu. The build harks back to the crystalline dreamings of early 20 th-century German designer Bruno Taut. Illustration: Adrian Smith and Gordon Gill Architecture

A crystalline spire rising 468 metres above the 18 million-strong metropolis of Chengdu, the Greenland Tower will be the tallest building in southwestern China, standing as a sharply chiselled monument to the countrys( and by some counts the worlds) largest real estate developers, Greenland Holding. It is designed by Chicago-based Adrian Smith and Gordon Gill, designers of Dubais Burj Khalifa, who say the faceted shaft is a reference to the unique ice mountain topography of the region. It harks back to the crystalline dreams of early 20 th-century German architect Bruno Taut, who imagined a dazzling glass city crown to celebrate socialism and agriculture; whether Sichuans farmers will be welcomed into the penthouse sky garden remains to be seen.

Sun-Moon mansion, Dezhou

A contender to Silicon Valley the Sun-Moon mansion of Solar Valley, Dezhou. Photo: Alamy

Once known as a centre of braised chicken production, the city of Dezhou in the north-eastern province of Shandong now brands itself as Solar Valley, a renewable energy centre intended to rival Californias Silicon Valley. At its heart is the Sun-Moon mansion, a vast fan-shaped office build powered by an arc of solar panel on its roof. It is the brainchild of Huang Ming, aka Chinas sun king, an oil industry technologist turned solar energy tycoon who heads the Himin Solar Energy Group, the worlds biggest producer of solar water heaters as well as purveyor of sun-warmed toilet seats and solar-powered Tibetan prayer wheels.

Harbin Opera House

Harbin Opera House, with the St Petersburg of the east in the background. Photograph: View Pictures/ Rex/ Shutterstock

Nicknamed the St Petersburg of the east, the far northern city of Harbin has long had a thriving cultural scene as a gateway to Russia and beyond. In the 1920 s, manners from Paris and Moscow arrived here before they reached Shanghai, and it was home to the countrys first symphony orchestra, made up of mostly Russian musicians.

Inside Harbin Opera House. Photo: Opinion Pictures/ Rex/ Shutterstock

Declared city of music in 2010, Harbin has recently pumped millions into a glitter new concert hall by Arata Isozaki, a gargantuan neo-classical conservatory and an 80,000 sq metre whipped meringue of an opera house by MAD. Shaped like a pair of snowy dunes, up which guests can climb on snaking routes, the building contains a sinuous timber-lined auditorium designed as an eroded block of wood.

Tianjin Binhai library

Tianjin Binhai library. Illustration: MVRDV

Due to open this summer in the sprawling port city of Tianjin, this space-age library by Dutch architects MVRDV is imagined as a gaping cave of volumes, carved out from within an oblong glass block. The shelves form a terraced scenery of seating, wrapping around a giant mirrored sphere auditorium that nestles in the middle of the space like a pearl in an oyster.

Inside the space-age Tianjin Binhai library. Illustration: MVRDV

Along with a new theater, congress centre and a science and technology museum by Bernard Tschumi, the building forms part of a new cultural one-quarter for the city, itself being swallowed into the schemed Beijing-Tianjin mega-region population 130 million, thats more than Japan .

Huaguoyuan Towers, Guiyang

Arups twin towers are almost complete. Illustration: LWK& Partners

Nowhere in China is the disparity between economic reality and architectural ambition more stark than in Guiyang, capital of rural Guizhou, the poorest province in the country, which has the fifth most skyscraper schemes of any Chinese city. The twin 335 -metre towers of the Huaguoyuan development, by Arup, are now almost complete, standing as the centrepiece of a new mixed-use office, retail and amusement complex, while SOM is busy conjuring the even higher Cultural Plaza Tower, a 521 -metre glass spear that will soar above a new riverfront world of shopping malls and theatres. It has the glitz and gloss of any other Chinese citys new central business district, but as Knight Franks David Ji points out: It will be hard for a city like Guiyang to find quality renters to fill the space.

Yubei agricultural park, Chongqing

Will Alsops Yubei agricultural park. Illustration: Will Alsop

Architectural funster Will Alsop may ultimately have found his calling in the supercharged furnace of Chinas second-tier cities booming leisure economy, crafting a number of fantastical dreamworlds from his new satellite studio in Chongqing where he is busy constructing a new culture quarter around his own office, with a eatery, bar and distillery. He is also plotting an enormous agricultural leisure park in Yubei, 20 miles north of the city, designed to cater to the new middle classes nascent appreciation of the countryside, a place hitherto links with peasants and poverty. The rolling landscape will be dotted with cocoon-like treehouses, a flower-shaped hotel and a big lagoon covered by an LED-screen canopy, so visitors can enjoy projected blue skies despite the smog.

Zendai Himalayas centre, Nanjing

A limestone mountain range: Zendai Himalayas Centre, Nanjing. Illustration: www.i-mad.com

Erupting across six city blocks like a limestone mountain range, the Zendai Himalayas Centre is likely to be Mas most literal interpretation yet of his doctrine of fusing architecture and nature. Taking inspiration from the traditional style of shanshui scenery brush paint( literally meaning mountain-water ), the 560,000 sq metre complex is designed to look as if it has been eroded by millennia of gust and water , not thrown up overnight by an army of migrant labourers. Once again, Ma appears to be forgetting that elegant feathery brushstrokes dont often translate well into clods of glass and steel. It is one of many such green-fingered strategies in Nanjing, including Stefano Boeris vertical wood towers and the Sifang art park, where Steven Holl, SANAA, David Adjaye and others have constructed pavilions in a rolled landscape as another decoy for a luxury real estate project.

Huawei campus, Dongguan

A render of Huawei campus, Dongguan, which is based on 12 European towns

Telecoms giant Huawei has courted suits for copying from challengers in the past, but its love of imitating clearly extends to architecture too. The companys new campus, under construction on a 300 -acre site in Dongguan, is based on 12 European townships. There are the dreaming steeples of Oxford, the quaint redbrick houses of Bruges, the palazzos of Verona and the chateaux of Burgundy, all connected by a meander Swiss railway. It might look like a theme park, but the employees will have little time for leisure: Huaweis founder likens his staff to a pack of hungry wolves and offers them a dedicated employee arrangement to voluntarily forgo paid holiday and overtime.

Guardian Cities is dedicating a week to the huge but often unreported cities on the front line of Chinas unprecedented urbanisation. Explore our coverage here and follow us on Facebook. Share stories via WeChat( GuardianCities) and by employing #OtherChina on Twitter and Instagram

Read more: www.theguardian.com

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Visiting Wales with Original Cottages

For holiday makers looking for a UK location that combines both unique and idyllic accommodation, with a plethora of activities to suit every taste, visiting Wales with Original Cottages represents a fantastic choice that offers everything from fine dining and relaxing breaks to stunning outdoor settings and sporting opportunities.

Indeed, as the home of the slightly eccentric pastime of Bog Snorkelling, Wales is able to boast a truly eclectic selection of holiday experiences. However, for travellers looking for a more genteel approach, there is no shortage of cosy accommodation and quiet escapes that provide the perfect opportunity for a re-charge.

A Land of Contrasts

Wales is a destination that offers wildly varied, but equally impressive natural surroundings that range from commanding mountain peaks to truly breath-taking beaches. These include CefnSidan, which is an 8-mile stretch of coast with safe water and easy access. The beach itself is part of Pembrey Country Park and home to a host of wildlife nestled amongst its dunes and marram grass that is it itching to be discovered by budding explorers. For those looking for an opportunity to engage is some exciting hiking and climbing activities, the region is also contrasted with some fantastic mountain ranges. Snowdown for example, has an elevation of 1,085 metres (3,560 ft.), which makes the mountain Wales’ most towering summit and the third tallest within the UK.

[caption id="attachment_26550" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Cadair Idris (from Llynnau Cregennen) Winter Snowdonia Mid Scenery[/caption]

  Also waiting to be explored is the impressive Brecon Beacons mountain range, where guests may enjoy a flurry of activities including adventures on horseback, which further allow enthusiast to discover the region’s abundance of birds, butterfly’s and aquatic wildlife.

  Staying In or Going Out

With such a varied scope of natural features, it should come as no surprise that Wales is able to attract visitors from all walks of life. For thrill-seekers looking to embrace fresh challenges, the available activities include everything from bog snorkelling and zip-lining to fantastic surfing opportunities. Conwy Valley for example, is home to a £12m, 300-metreartificial wave lagoon that is managed by Surf Snowdonia and offers good surfing and lessons for all ages.

[caption id="attachment_26551" align="aligncenter" width="640"] A man and woman hug after taking part in the World Bog Snorkelling Championship, an annual sporting event held at the dense Waen Rhydd peat bog in Powys.[/caption]

  Alternatively, for holiday makers looking for an opportunity to unwind, there are a host of exclusive holiday cottages that stretch from Anglesey to the base of the Brecon Beacons and beyond. These include the picturesque, BwthynFelgaws cottage, situated close to Swansea in South Wales. This charming accommodation has been awarded a 5-star rating by Cymru Wales and is within walking distance of the Brecon Beacons.

    In addition to a broad selection of attractive holiday cottages, visiting Wales provides a wealth of places to visit that allow visitors to enjoy at casual game of golf at one of more than 200 courses, discover various local towns and villages, as well as explore hundreds of local attractions. These include the Dr Who Experience, which arrived in Wales in 2012 and is sure to delight science fiction fans of all ages. In conjunction with big thrills and stunning views, Wales is home to Britain’s smallest city, St David’s, as well as Britain’s smallest house - Quay House in Conwy.

The Local Flavour

The diversity of what Wales has to offer is fully matched by its selection of fine local cuisines and specialist beverages that are able to cater to even the most refined pallet. Succulent Welsh lamb is farmed across the country’s lush valleys, while award-winning cheeses can be found in both local homes and restaurants. This richness of culinary experiences is also supported by a tempting selection of locally produced beers, wines and spirits.

And speaking of spirits, make sure you check out the Penderyn Distillery

Wales is also home to an award winning Whisky distillery, in the beautiful surroundings of the Breacon Beacons. Penderyn Distillery has been around since 2000, with their first malt released in 2004. It was set up by a group of friends who wanted to bring the art of distilling back to Wales. Penderyn is a beautiful distillery, found in the incredible Breacon Beacons.

Penderyn Distillery is a quaint place, a lot smaller than I thought it would be, and that’s definitely not meant in a bad way, the design of the distillery itself is incredible with unique stills and even a glass spirit safe.

Upon arriving at the distillery you instantly get a sense that Penderyn is not looking to produce a Scotch whisky in Wales but to create something truly unique within the whisky category. This is reflected throughout their distillery’s design as well as their leadership that includes, amongst others two ex-steel workers, a musician / writer and an ex-cabinet maker.

This is a place like no other.

There are many stories to tell about the distillery, the brand and the people but overall the best thing I can do here is urge you to take the trip to Penderyn and be prepared to learn many new things and see many new things.

Make sure you check out their Madeira, Rich Oak and Myth releases; great whisky all round.

They have a visitor centre that is ready to welcome you seven days a week and offer a range of tours and tastings. Whether you are a fan of Whisky or not, Penderyn is well worth a visit, not only for the brilliant malts, but also for the astounding Welsh countryside that surrounds it. Definitely one to do when visiting Wales, say hi to Jon from me whilst you're there.

This post has been a collaboration between GreatDrams and Original Cottages.

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