Sometimes that you describe with words as well as those selected can not be compared with the power of the video image. Look at the main streets of the underside Elbasan Albania attractions of this beautiful city in the video below!
Monday, March 14, 2016
Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Strong winds amazing images
Perhaps a place is beautiful in itself, but when we have strong winds created incredible images like the video below in Pireus Greece ...
Saturday, May 3, 2014
Ericeira Beach Portugal
If you fail these tests, Ericeira is not for you. If you pass them, you understand the true beauty of Ericeira and you’ll never trade it for any other beach.
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Explore Mallorca
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| Palma de Mallorca |
A popular holiday destination – Mallorca island belongs to the large and well-known Balearic Islands and is among top 10 beaches in Spain. With Mediterranean climate and hot summers the island is a true paradise for tourists. It offers lots of opportunities for both active and passive ways of spending your vacation. You may either lay on the beach sunbathing in the gentle rays of Sun of Mallorca island or you can try any kinds of watersports you always wanted to try or explore the caves nearby. It all depends on you as the island has it all.
The most loved place on the island however is Palma de Mallorca. Being the capital of well-known Balearic Islands, one of Spanish islands, Palma de Mallorca is known to be a picturesque city. For those desiring to visit this city and to enjoy it at its best the good advice will be to approach it from the sea. Only in such a way you will be able to fully admire its beauty. The first object you'll see while approaching will be a Bellver castle as it sits on the hill. This famous castle was built in the 14 the century and became known thanks to its uniqueness as the first circle castle in Europe. Nowadays it houses a history museum.
As soon as you arrive you'll probably have the feeling that you are in a usual modern city but with stunning beaches. But it's undoubtedly that a bit later you'll feel its historical spirit as the city has a long history with its own myths and legends. After all that you'll be able to realize why Palma de Mallorca is a favorite summer vacation place for crowds of tourists.
There is no doubt why the city is so popular; it offers so many attractions to the visitors. For example such famous beach resorts as Ca'n Pastilla, El Arenal and Cala Estancia are the perfect places for entertainment. They offer everything for the comfort of the travelers.
Especially in summer months Palma de Mallorca becomes a great spot for partying and a destination for party animals. It also hosts lots of festivals
Spring destinations in Europe
Traveling is great all year round but with the
arrival of the warm weather you would love to pack your things and enjoy
a little trip, wouldn’t you? Gather your friends and get going then!Spring is not so to hot and too cold.
French Provence and Paris (France)
In the Vaucluse region, southeast of France, is the Luberon park, a natural park worth walking while spring flowers in its fields.
Paris also surprises us in the spring. Life flows
between bakeries, markets, boutiques, museums and restaurants. This
friendly and intimate atmosphere makes it wonderfull to stroll through its streets and investigate all of the attractive places that define the French capital.
Luberon park
Valletta (Malta)
Valletta is a beautiful place that offers fun, traditions and good weather. The music, light and color
will not be lacking in the capital of the island on 25th, 26th and 30th
April. A free show is held then, in which there are more than 30
fireworks companies in the world involved: you got it right, it’s an international fireworks festival.
Valleta
Every year this time, Jerte Valley prepares for the cherry blossoms, a natural spectacle of great beauty. The slopes of the valley are covered in white,
creating a wonderful and unique landscape. The best way to enjoy this
event is a journey through the mountains, passing through towns such as
Casas del Castañas or Barred.
Jerte Valley
During these months Florence is more beautiful if thats is even possible. This area of Tuscany Italy is dotted with beautiful olive trees, cypresses and poppies blooming at this time. Florence has on its custody a magnificent cultural legacy that covers about 10% of the world’s artistic heritage.
Florence
While hordes of tourists come to the Norwegian fjords in summer attracted by the spectacular scenery, spring is when you can enjoy all its glory. With temperatures rising, the ice fields covering the fjord melts and begins to sprout incredible wild flowers.
Sognefjord
Algarve (Portugal)
Although Algarve is one of those places that you can visit at any time of year, those who know this Portuguese nook know that the best time to enjoy its secluded beaches and peaceful villages is in spring.
Friday, March 14, 2014
Elbasan Albania Travel Guide
I'm happy because I'm writing a post about my born city and I'm the first one and I'm so happy because I'm share with everyone this info about this hidden beautiful corner.
Elbasan it is one of the largest cities in Albania, with a population of 300000 and t is 20min away from Tirana the capital of Albania.Elbasan - A large, poor, intriguing industrial city that is full of life. The market is fascinating, and the breakfast "Bugace" legendary,also the sweet Bollokume and Fergese Elbasani is amazing! The Via Ignatia, an old Roman road to Istanbul, runs through the city. The Lakes of Belsh near Belsh are also worth a visit.
Elbasan came into prominence in the Roman period, when it became a popular holiday spot known as Masio Scampa (Rural Retreat).The Romans built a substantial fortress here, about 300 square meters, protected by towers. In the third and fourth centuries, it became known as Hiskampis.
History of the City of Elbasan
The history of Elbasan has its origin in the II century BC during ancient Illyrian settlements. In the second century, the city known as "SKAMPA" later named "SKAMPINI" was dependent on Durrahu. Being situated at the crossroads of the region, North - South and East - West, it served as important crossing point and station, being referred to as the urban,military and Episcopal center. After blocking the Via Egnatia from the barbarian invasions, records are lost for some time and then recognized again with destruction during the Slav - Bulgarian migration somewhere during century VI - VII.During the Turkish invasion of Albania, after the defeat it suffered in the second siege of Kruja, Sultan Mehmed II, the return of the old fortress was built to serve as a support point in the case of future invastions. In 1466 the town was named Elbe-san.
It quickly developed as an important strategic, administrative, military and economic center for Albania. Craftsmanship and trade took again a notable development extending connections and influence throughout the surrounding areas. A significant development took the represented postbizantin art by the master and the great painter of Neokastrës Onufri (Manchester), who created an art peak which show up in particular force excellent combination of genius and local tradition. His works, inherited to the present day, are the frescoes and icons and churches Valshit and Shelcanit from mid-century. XVI. Continuing the work of Constantine mentioned Onufri Shpataraku. A rapid development took the city of Elbasan in the century. XVII with the creation, organization and functioning of the 60 types of handicrafts in 45 guilds. It is worth noting at this time "Codex tanner guilds", May 15, 1658, considered among the oldest in the Balkans.
In the documentation of the time, proving that among the seventeenth century, Elbasan had 2000 houses, 900 shops working in leather, wool, silk and metals, especially silver.
Elbasan products were found in markets both domestically and abroad. This is shown by the fact that in three international exhibitions (Paris and Turkey in 1867 and in Chicago in 1894) Elbasan craft items such as rifles, pistols and production SILAH Albanian Shkoder, Elbasan, Prizren were exhibited. It is important that Elbasan is known for organizing fairs, with the first in 1381 followed by others in later periods.
At this time Elbasan, known for its powerful educational and cultural efforts, empowered Bugomili (Anonymous of Elbasan), Dhaskal Todri to spread its language and script. In the Albanian National Renaissance era, Kristoforidhi Constantine, author of ABC Albanian Geg and Tosk vocabulary, holds an important place as he is regarded as the father of the Albanian language.
Elbasan has four museums:
- Ethnographic Museum (1982) held in an 18th-century building
- “Kostandin Kristoforidhi” house (started as a museum in 1978)
- Shkolla Normale Museum
- War Museum
Annual Art and cultural activities
Summer Day ": March 14 known as" Summer Day " has been named as a national holiday. Celebrated since ancient times in the city of Elbasan, and today is celebrated in the entire country, the day includes the Feast of the renewal of the universe, the recovery of nature and the continuity of life. Summer Day tends to be a massive celebration with rituals and their characteristics, with outstanding games, celebrations with family and unique decoration dominated by flowers. Also special,are sweets like "ballakumet" which is a characteristic Cake for this day. Although it has become national holiday, the Day of Summer remains an ancient celebration of Elbasan, where people gather to celebrate from all over."Youth Marathon" - a youth performance that includes participation of many schools in the city. The purpose is of sharing the new talents in singing, dancing, acting etc of youth in Elbasan and is conducted during April and May.
Nationwide Marathon of Folk Music – this program is a collaboration with several private entities and TV Klan. Held every year in July-August and aims to introduce new urban folk music.
"Star Academy" - is a spectacle that takes place for months on TV Klan, where new talents in various fields of art compete among themselves. The winners held a tour in several cities in Albania. Elbasan welcomes these talents every year in July-August.
"Giffoni" - Children's Film Festival - now several years old tradition and Elbasan in Albania, organized with the support of several private entities. This activity includes different films from Europe and the Balkans. The jury is composed of both film professionals and children.
International Theatre Festival "Skampa" – this important artistic activity, developed since 1999 in Skampa Theatre, occurs during October-November. Presented in this festival are artistic, creative and interpretative values in the field of scenic arts. Theatrical troops from Albania, Russia, Italy, Argentina, Romania, Bulgaria, Greece, Bosnia, Serbia, etc. attend each year.
"Elbasan Roses” an international poetry festival. The traditional poetic annual two-day activity, where poets come from speaking lands, but others from the Balkans and beyond. Another promoter for the development of artistic and cultural activities is the "Kristoforidhi Constantine Writers Club" Poets visit the cultural city of Elbasan, its most beautiful museum and surroundings. They aslo develop competition with the recitation of their poems during the evening of poetry, and the jury determines and announces several awards. The prize for the winner is to have a tree planted, in his/her name in “Writer’s Garden,” in front of city hall. Our intention for this year is to organize the festival in October.
Some other activities that enliven the artistic-cultural life in the city of Elbasan are:
- "Studio of literature" and "Little Genius"
- Two comedy type theatrical premieres
- Concerts of the Ensemble "Isuf Myzyri"
- Artistic recitals of Elbasan
- Various book promotions etc.
Dish with Nuts
Prepared with turkey, walnuts, a little flour and butter. Take an amount of nuts, to be crushed. Take some butter and mix with flour and crushed nuts. Then take the broth of a roasted turkey, a little garlic and a little vinegar and allow it to boil. After cooking, divide into small portions in the casserole and bake in clay oven. When ready, take from the oven and pour it over the pieces of roasted turkey.Dish with Pestil
A winter dish of ram meat prepared in a typical clay casserole dish of Elbasan. Meat is the main ingredient, except onions, which are added with salt and crushed red pepper in casserole. Divide meat, oil, a little rice and pestil in individual clay dishes and put in oven.Elbasan Ballakume
Ballakume is traditional dessert of the city
of Elbasan. Currently all Albanians from South to North come to buy
ballakume in the city of Elbasan. There are two types of this dessert:
Dough Ballakume, prepared with wheat flour and less sugar and Sugar
Ballakume which is synonymous with the Summer Day festival. Its
preparation is this: in a copper pot, exclusive for ballakume, add in
specific order while beating with a wooden spoon, melted butter, pressed
sugar, eggs (one by one), yeast, corn flour and lye. The amount of
dough is divided and shaped into rounds and enters the oven. Its
“secret” is in beating by hand (no mixers) and the grilled wood oven.Bugaçe
Prepared with wheat flour, the salt water eases back into the dough
in warmer conditions. Divided into cakes and turns into noodles by hand
throwing. In each pan lies three pitas, among melted butter. Then baked
in the oven, placed in a hot pan with butter and then served inside a
bun or waffle. This is a breakfast item only and is characteristic only
of Elbasan. Bugace is has been cooked regularly for two centuries.Casserole with yogurt (casserole Elbasan).
Known Elbasan Casserole in Albania and abroad. Prepared with lamb or
goat, that after washing is tossed with salt and oil and placed in the
inserted clay casserole in the oven. When removed from oven and cooled,
its added to a bowl with eggs, flour and more yogurt. Introduced back in
the oven and once removed from heat and served cold. Used most
frequently in the season of spring and summer.Cultural Heritage
On the north side of the Shkumbin River, where it crosses with the famous Egnatia Road, lies the city of Elbasan, ancient name- Skampis. Throughout ancient history Elbasan often changed his name, but for the first time we find written in historical documents of the II century as the name Scampis depending on Dyrrahu.Scampisi was castle built in typical Roman century III, a fortress surrounded by strong walls. Of the four sides of a moat with water and 26 towers of different shapes (the U-shaped and horseshoe) strengthen its defensive power. The castle had four entrances, one for each side.
In century VI outside the city’s center was an Episcopal castle with a cathedral and basilica on the hill near Kala Tepe. In 1466 the Elbasan Castle fell to the Ottomans, who almost entirely rebuilt, and then named the city Elbasan. With this name became the Sanjak Center during centuries XVIII- XVII, having a highly developed craftsmanship and trade at home and abroad. At this time, the city was home to 900 stores, 2,000 houses. The professions of most citizens were making leather, making silk and silver (ornaments and weapons).
In addition to homes and shops, Elbasan also contained a large number of cult buildings such as churches, monasteries, mosques and hammams (public baths).
1. Castle's Skampis
Scampis's Castle was built in the reign of Emperor Diocletian (284-305). It is built entirely by the Roman “opus mixtum” technique. Wall construction period to 3 m located anywhere in the lower level of the castle.
2. Via Egnatia
This road is the continuation of the Via Appia's starting from ancient Rome to Brindisi. Via Egnatia in our country starts from Apollonia and Dyrrachium, two branches that join near Scampis's on the left bank of the Zaranikës stream and continues north east of Lake Ohrid to Thessaloniki. This route is thought to be built between 146-120 BC
3. Royal Mosque
Royal Mosque is one of the earliest shrines Albania, dating to 1492. This sanctuary complies with all other mosques were built royal designated by Sultan II Bajaziti in the late fifteenth century. The mosque was closed during the communist dictatorship in 1967 and reopened after 1990.
4. Church of St. Mary Elbasan
Church of Saint Mary is located within the castle of Elbasan and was rebuilt in 1833.
5. Castle Hammam
Hammam within the castle, also known as the Women’s Hammam and belongs to the sixteenth century. The hammam’s original setup consisted of three main rooms: the dressing, isolation and washing rooms. During the twentieth century, Castle Hammam was used for food storage. Today, the building has been transformed into a bar.
6. Clock Tower
Clock Tower first arose in Elbasan in the seventeenth century and was ruined before the year 1854. A second tower of wood was raised during years 1865-1869. After toppling, it was replaced with remaining stone tower in 1899.
The inscription on the entrance gate of the tower says: "King of the World goodness / and drew this beautiful and zemërledhatues kohëtregues / tried many, cared and was interested Aqif Beg / dhashtë lord of all the best reward of this world / when it sounds, announces his voice to charm the exact time / so perfect on all four sides showing minutes / since vjershëtorit owns your intuition / O Refit in building his / it was built in early 1315 (which belongs to the year 1899).
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| Sahati Elbasan |
SEE ALSO
Byshek is a well known tourist area for the entire region. The water resources have made this place famous, turning it into a potential tourist attraction.Byshek is situated in the Southern part of the city of Elbasan, at the Shkumbin Valley, at the Shushice village. It is an area full of century old plane trees and cold watered springs that make its beauty very impressive. |
| Byshek Shushice |
LLIXHE
Located near the city of Elbasan. These sources are known and used during the Roman period.
The Llixha Elbasan hot springs are among the most important geothermal
The Llixha Elbasan hot springs are among the most important geothermal
springs of Albania. Balneological use dates back centuries, but the first modern
usage started in 1937.The temperature of the water is above 60°C Analysis of these water resources are carried out by specialized engineers Czechs, who have recorded high therapeutic value. Here handled numerous diseases of the respiratory, nervous system, skin, stomach, etc.. Spa Elbasan and cosmetic value. Today there are many private hotels that offer spa services in the following.
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Top 5 Winter Destinations for 2013-2014
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| Winter 2014 |
Top 5 Worlds Best Winter Vacation | Are you looking for the best holiday deals
for your winter vacation? Millions of people think about going for a
family trip during the winters and therefore you should start looking
for the best destinations that can help you to make the most of the
quality time that you have with your family.
1. Bulgaria, Europe
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| Bulgaria Winter |
If you are planning a visit to Europe
you can go for Bulgaria which is certainly one of the best winter
destinations in the world. It is one of the oldest countries in the
Europe and therefore you will find some really good attractions and
cultural events that happen during the winter festival. If you love
skiing you will find some affordable ski destinations and locations
here. As per the latest tourism information, Bulgaria gets more
travelers across the globe in winter.
2. Morocco, Africa
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| Marocco Winter |
There are many people who hate the cold
chilly weather where everything is snow white and therefore they want to
escape it. If you are thinking about escaping the cold temperature then
you can rush to Morocco in Africa where it is summer time and you can
enjoy some really warm climate this Christmas. Since there are more
travelers here during the winter time you will find that there are more
people celebrating their winter holidays in warm style and there are
many shops where you can go shopping.
3. Arahova, Greece
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| Arahova Greece |
If you love the snow clad mountains and
some nice landscape then you can head to Southern Greece. Arahova is a
nice winter destination which looks quiet throughout the year but during
the winter you will find people flocking in from different parts of
Europe and Asia and therefore this place has cosmopolitan crowd during
the festival season. You can always book some really good resorts here
that will take care of your accommodation.
4. Whistler, Canada
 |
Whistler |
There are many people who love to go for
adventure even when the temperature is dropping outside. If you are one
of those then you should head to Whistler Blackcomb in Canada which is a
great place for all those who want to ski and enjoy snowboarding. Many
people from USA and Canada come here to enjoy some really cool resorts
here that are affordable and elegant.
5. Bali, Indonesia
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| Bali |
If you don’t have the budget but if you
still want to enjoy your winter holidays in style then you can take off
for Bali in Indonesia. The climate here is gentle and not bone-chilling
cold. Hence, you can always enjoy the temperature and even go for some
beaches and other water sport activities.
Saturday, October 12, 2013
WerTravel News Statue of Liberty and Grand Canyon to reopen
New
York and Arizona announced Friday night they are dipping into their
state coffers to pay to reopen the iconic Statue of Liberty and Grand
Canyon, federally operated parks in their states that have been
shuttered as a result of the partial government shutdown.
The announcements by New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, and Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer, a Republican, come on the same day that the governors of Utah and Colorado said they would use state money to temporarily reopen national parks in their states.
A fifth state, South Dakota, announced Friday that it recruited more than a dozen businesses, civic groups and individuals to donate the $15,200 per day it costs to operate Mount Rushmore. The monument will open Monday.
New York reached an agreement with the Department of Interior to pay $369,000 to pay for operations — run by the National Park Service — from Saturday through Oct. 17.
"As the shutdown continues, we cannot afford to lose the thousands of visits to the park each day," Cuomo said. "So while the dysfunction and gridlock in Washington, D.C., has failed to keep this important state asset open, New York is stepping up to take over this responsibility."
The Grand Canyon National Park will reopen Saturday under the terms of a deal Brewer reached late Friday with federal officials.
The state will pay $651,000, covering a week's worth of costs for reopening the entire park. The money will come from a mix of state and "other" dollars, Brewer spokesman Andrew Wilder said, including funds contributed by Tusayan businesses.
The state of Colorado announced Friday it will spend more than $360,000 to reopen Rocky Mountain National Park through Oct. 20, while Utah will open five of the state's national parks Saturday at a cost of $1.67 million.
The
decision by governors to kick in funds to keep national parks open in
their states came after the Obama administration announced Thursday that
it would allow states to pay to reopen any of the country's 401
National Park Service managed properties.
Utah was the first state to take the administration up on its offer and wired the money to the National Park Service on Friday morning to reopen Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion National Parks. The state is also paying to reopen the federally operated Natural Bridges and Cedar Breaks national monuments, as well as Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
The state estimates its national parks would bring in $100 million to Utah's economy in October.
"I was so anxious to do something, because this is a kind of seasonal work for people in Utah," Utah's Republican Gov. Gary Herbert told USA TODAY. "You miss October, it's not like you can make it up in January. It's like missing the Christmas holiday season."
More than 80,000 visitors were turned away from Rocky Mountain National Park during the first 10 days of the shutdown, and the economy lost out on about $4.8 million in visitor spending, according to a report by the Coalition of National Park Service Retirees. Colorado will spend about $40,000 per day to keep the park open. Colorado's tourism traffic also took a hit last month because of devastating floods in the state.
"This reopening is critical to ongoing recovery efforts after last month's flooding," said Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, a Democrat.
Utah is using emergency funds from the state's Department of Natural Resources to pay to reopen the national parks, according to Herbert's office. National Park Service workers at Utah parks were alerted to return to work Thursday night and began returning to their posts Friday morning.
Interior Secretary Sally Jewell agreed Thursday to let the states foot the bill to reopen the parks but on the condition that they bring back park service employees and reopen the parks entirely.
"This is a practical and temporary solution that will lessen the pain for some businesses and communities in Colorado during this shutdown," Jewell said in a statement Friday. "We want to reopen all of our national parks as quickly as possible for everyone to enjoy and call on Congress to pass a clean continuing resolution to open the government."
In Utah, the decision to cover the costs — even though it remains uncertain whether the state will be reimbursed by the federal government once the shutdown ends — was an easy one to make considering how big of a blow the closures have been on the state's economy.
Ben Patel, general manager of the Pioneer Lodge near Zion, said the shutdown has dropped his occupancy to less than 50% during a time of year when the lodge is typically fully booked.
"The day they open, the guests will start rolling in. Once word spreads, we'll get people coming in," he said.
Jan Huber, a tourist from Freiburg, Germany, visiting Utah this week, said an open park over the weekend would at least partially make up for a week spent scrambling to find alternatives to the national parks she had planned on visiting.
"We have been so unfortunate; it would be very good to finally get into (a park)," Huber said.
Herbert said the state is prepared to pay for more than 10 days if needed. He expects the federal government will reimburse the state once the government reopens — noting that the federal government repaid states that reopened national parks during the government shutdown in 1995. Rep. Steve Daines, R-Mont., introduced legislation on Friday that calls for reimbursing states for paying for national parks operations once the shutdown ends.
"I hope this is not the new normal," Herbert said of the government shutdown. "I see a lack of leadership, and I think blame can be spread around on both sides of the aisle, and I think the president needs to step up and lead. "
Sullivan reports for The Spectrum of St. George, Utah. Contributing: Trevor Hughes and Mary Jo Pitzl of The Arizona Republic
The announcements by New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, and Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer, a Republican, come on the same day that the governors of Utah and Colorado said they would use state money to temporarily reopen national parks in their states.
A fifth state, South Dakota, announced Friday that it recruited more than a dozen businesses, civic groups and individuals to donate the $15,200 per day it costs to operate Mount Rushmore. The monument will open Monday.
New York reached an agreement with the Department of Interior to pay $369,000 to pay for operations — run by the National Park Service — from Saturday through Oct. 17.
"As the shutdown continues, we cannot afford to lose the thousands of visits to the park each day," Cuomo said. "So while the dysfunction and gridlock in Washington, D.C., has failed to keep this important state asset open, New York is stepping up to take over this responsibility."
The Grand Canyon National Park will reopen Saturday under the terms of a deal Brewer reached late Friday with federal officials.
The state will pay $651,000, covering a week's worth of costs for reopening the entire park. The money will come from a mix of state and "other" dollars, Brewer spokesman Andrew Wilder said, including funds contributed by Tusayan businesses.
The state of Colorado announced Friday it will spend more than $360,000 to reopen Rocky Mountain National Park through Oct. 20, while Utah will open five of the state's national parks Saturday at a cost of $1.67 million.
Utah was the first state to take the administration up on its offer and wired the money to the National Park Service on Friday morning to reopen Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion National Parks. The state is also paying to reopen the federally operated Natural Bridges and Cedar Breaks national monuments, as well as Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
The state estimates its national parks would bring in $100 million to Utah's economy in October.
"I was so anxious to do something, because this is a kind of seasonal work for people in Utah," Utah's Republican Gov. Gary Herbert told USA TODAY. "You miss October, it's not like you can make it up in January. It's like missing the Christmas holiday season."
More than 80,000 visitors were turned away from Rocky Mountain National Park during the first 10 days of the shutdown, and the economy lost out on about $4.8 million in visitor spending, according to a report by the Coalition of National Park Service Retirees. Colorado will spend about $40,000 per day to keep the park open. Colorado's tourism traffic also took a hit last month because of devastating floods in the state.
"This reopening is critical to ongoing recovery efforts after last month's flooding," said Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, a Democrat.
Utah is using emergency funds from the state's Department of Natural Resources to pay to reopen the national parks, according to Herbert's office. National Park Service workers at Utah parks were alerted to return to work Thursday night and began returning to their posts Friday morning.
Interior Secretary Sally Jewell agreed Thursday to let the states foot the bill to reopen the parks but on the condition that they bring back park service employees and reopen the parks entirely.
"This is a practical and temporary solution that will lessen the pain for some businesses and communities in Colorado during this shutdown," Jewell said in a statement Friday. "We want to reopen all of our national parks as quickly as possible for everyone to enjoy and call on Congress to pass a clean continuing resolution to open the government."
In Utah, the decision to cover the costs — even though it remains uncertain whether the state will be reimbursed by the federal government once the shutdown ends — was an easy one to make considering how big of a blow the closures have been on the state's economy.
Ben Patel, general manager of the Pioneer Lodge near Zion, said the shutdown has dropped his occupancy to less than 50% during a time of year when the lodge is typically fully booked.
"The day they open, the guests will start rolling in. Once word spreads, we'll get people coming in," he said.
Jan Huber, a tourist from Freiburg, Germany, visiting Utah this week, said an open park over the weekend would at least partially make up for a week spent scrambling to find alternatives to the national parks she had planned on visiting.
"We have been so unfortunate; it would be very good to finally get into (a park)," Huber said.
Herbert said the state is prepared to pay for more than 10 days if needed. He expects the federal government will reimburse the state once the government reopens — noting that the federal government repaid states that reopened national parks during the government shutdown in 1995. Rep. Steve Daines, R-Mont., introduced legislation on Friday that calls for reimbursing states for paying for national parks operations once the shutdown ends.
"I hope this is not the new normal," Herbert said of the government shutdown. "I see a lack of leadership, and I think blame can be spread around on both sides of the aisle, and I think the president needs to step up and lead. "
Sullivan reports for The Spectrum of St. George, Utah. Contributing: Trevor Hughes and Mary Jo Pitzl of The Arizona Republic
Friday, October 11, 2013
Animal migrations when and where
Awe-inspiring animal migrations that send people flocking
Millions of red crabs living on Australia's Christmas Island make their way to the sea to mate and, eventually, lay their eggs.
- Sometimes, migrations attract predators, as with the sardine run in South Africa.
- Some communities, like in Pacific Grove, California, impose fines on anyone disrupting the local fauna.
- Locals on Christmas Island kickback with a beer during the annual crab migration.
Whatever the reason, when
animals come together, very often so do humans. Here's our guide to the
animal migrations that bring people out in flocks.
Butterfly kingdom
Residents of Pacific Grove,
California, take their butterflies very seriously. The area offers a
warm micro-climate that attracts 20,000 monarch butterflies who travel
up to 2,000 miles to winter in the region. In fact, the annual
phenomenon has earned Pacific Grove the nickname "butterfly town".
"I always hear that the
monarchs are coming before I ever see one. I get emails saying, 'I saw
my first monarch of the season!' Everyone wants to be the one to herald
their return," says Lori Mannel, executive director of the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History.
The season sees an influx of tourists as well. During the winter
months, nearly 100,000 visitors come to witness the spectacle.
The last few years has
seen a drastic decline in their population, a fact some credit with the
degradation of milk weed -- the only flora monarchs can lay their eggs
on. To help restore the population, many locals have started replanting
the stuff, while the local government has instilled a $1,000 fine for
disturbing a monarch.
Where: California
When: October - February
When: October - February
Run, sardine, run
A school of sardines make their move during the annual sardine run in southern Africa. (Image: Junko Kimura/Getty Images)
The east coast of southern Africa bears witness to one of the greatest migrations of all time: the sardine run. From May through July, millions of sardines spawn in the Agulhad Bank and make their way north up the coast.
The migration also
attracts predators, both of the human and animal variety. Each year,
thousands of locals and tourists perch with massive fishing nets to
catch the unwitting fish. Joining their ranks are sharks, dolphins and
gannets, who also hover nearby in the hopes of snagging an easy dinner.
Where: South Africa
When: May - July
When: May - July
Sign of the wildebeest
While tourism isn't
always a welcome phenomenon for environmentalists, there are some
instances where conservation efforts are abetted by traveler interest.
In the Serengeti, for instance, the tens of thousands of visitors that
stream in July and August for the Great Migration (so called for the
millions of wildebeests that trek from Tanzania to Kenya) actually help
to ensure funding goes to conservation.
A
heard of zebras quench their thirst en route to Kenya in their annual
great migration across the Serengeti. (Image: MarcoLongari/AFP/Getty
Images)
"You could argue that
tourism is one of the major reasons this huge ecosystem still exists
today," says Craig Sholley, the vice president of philanthropy and
marketing at the African Wildlife Foundation.
I always hear that the Monarchs are coming before I ever see one.
Lori Mannel, Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History
Lori Mannel, Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History
At the peak of the
migration, the banks of the Grumeti River are lined with hundreds of
vehicles packed with environmental voyeurs all eager to glimpse the
beasts make the life-threatening swim across the currents.
Where: Tanzania and Kenya
When: July - August
When: July - August
Crab season
Christmas Island is perhaps best known for the swarm of red crabs that pour onto the roads and beaches every winter.
"It looks like someone came along and planted all these crabs overnight," explains Linda Cash, the marketing manager at Christmas Island Tourism.
When the crabs come out,
the atmosphere becomes positively festive, notes Cash. The roads are
closed to protect the journeying numbers, and the park builds special
bridges to help them cross safely.
"People come down at night with their rakes, move the crabs off the road and share a beer," she says.
Where: Christmas Island
When: October - November
When: October - November
A whale of a time
A group of whale spotters hit the humpback whale jackpot whilst during
the annual whale migration in South America. (Image: Rodrigo
Buendia/AFP/Getty Images)
As it happens, humpback
whales are a species constantly on the move. This is good news for
tourists, who have a plethora of choice for where and when they'd like
to engage in whale watching activities.
In the summer months,
Colombia's Pacific Coast becomes a hotbed for roughly 3,000 of the
journeying mammals, who use the warm waters as their mating grounds. Australia
makes another popular spot to glimpse the majestic creatures, who hug
the coast from July onwards. The whales can travel over 5,000 miles, and
often, savvy businesses set up cruises and watch towers to help
visitors get a peek.
Where: Colombia and Australia
When: July - October (Colombia), June - November (Australia)
When: July - October (Colombia), June - November (Australia)
Monday, October 7, 2013
Five free things to do in Munich
Five free things to do in Munich
 |
Stroll around the English Garden
This beautiful, city centre park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle and go for a stroll. There are big grassy expanses of parkland (sometimes popular with sunbathing nudists), a picturesque river and weir, formal flower gardens, trees that look stunning in autumn and a Chinese pagoda. At the bottom is a large beer garden that is the perfect spot to reward yourself with a stein of beer and a salty oversized pretzel. |
Museum Brandhorst
Although not quite free, this museum of modern art costs only one euro to get in on a Sunday and offers access to more than 60 works by Andy Warhol, Cy Twombly, Gerhard Richter, Bruce Nauman, Damien Hirst and Joseph Beuys. It opened in May 2009 in a building designed by the architects Sauerbruch Hutton.www.museum-brandhorst.de
 |
Viktualienmarkt
If you're feeling peckish, stocking up for a picnic or just trying to work up an appetite, visit this food market to feast on Bavarian specialities. You will find Bavarian Schweinshax'n (pork knuckle) and Speck (smoked Black Forest ham) and local cheeses on the open-air stalls. Browsing continues next door in the historic Schrannenhalle, a wrought-iron market hall which once housed grain sellers but now contains a market, shops and restaurants. |
Museum of Man and Nature
This natural history museum is another of Munich's museums that offers entrance for a mere euro on Sundays. It combines modern interactive and traditional exhibits with a "hands-on" section.It sits adjacent to the Botanical Gardens and the grounds of the Nymphenburg Palace.
www.musmn.de/starteng.htm
 |
St Peter's Church Tower
A climb up the 306 steps of St Peter's Church does not cost a cent and is well worth it for the views of the city from the top, if only to plot your course between beer halls. It has a splendid alter and also contains the strange gilt and jewel-covered skeleton of St Mundita, seated on a cushion. It is Munich's oldest church, dating from 1180.
10 weirdest things forgotten in hotels
10 weirdest things forgotten in hotels
Who has not ever left something in a hotel? Everybody! Even if you look back you will always forget something like a mobile charger, toothbrush, pajamas, etc…
Well, you will not believe what a hotel
chain, Travelodge, says that human beings can leave carelessly in a
hotel room, mindful that the list is not wasted.
An 18 month old baby.
18 month old baby
Even if I have thought it various times, I cannot believe it.
A robot of an actual size of the British series ” Dr. Who ” valued at 7,800 euros.
Gigantic Robot
The question is: What do you do with a robot XXX size in a hotel room ?
Gold teeth valued at € 8,000.
Gold Teeth
1. Do people put gold teeth? 2. Who pays 8,000 for gold teeth ?
A box with 7 luxury watches.
7 luxury watches
Not only 1 valued there were 7 valued at 90,000 €. Some people need a watch for every day of the week, I see .
The ashes of a deceased.
Ashes
Shows the love he had to have to the
relatives … uyyyy much love. Sure they reached the cemetery , and all
wondering : ” but if you brought your ” and another? ? If it was you … “
An artificial leg
Artificial leg
As they left the hotel they “walked “without realizing it was missing. It is impossible .
The judgment of divorce.
Divorce paper
There are people that when the break everything they do it with everybody.
A hamster called Fredrick Roborowski.
Hamster
NO COMMENTS
An Olympic torch(height of 1 meter).
Olympic torch
Imagine that you wake up, you go get the
torch relay and when they are coming after you another thousand
kilometers from Athens, you realize that you left the torch in the hotel
… lol … super sucker!
The keys to a Ferrari 458
Ferrari Keys
This is my favorite. To be honest , who would not have taken it for a ride and then return it ? Mmmm…
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Cyprus the Island of Aphrodite
Cyprus is an island state located in the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea, a distance approximately equal to Europe, Asia and Africa. Nicosia is the capital and the population is about 800,000 people, most workers in tourism. Part of the European Union since 2004 and is administratively divided into 6 districts.
The climate is Mediterranean, with hot summers and cold winters. Local currency is the euro, and the time is the same as in Romania, there was no time difference.
In Cyprus are very important religious customs and traditions, issues that that tourists should follow. Handshake to inalniri, accepting coffee or soft drinks are just a few of them, which can add to ban shooting without permission military or cultural objectives.
The island's history is tumultuous, mainly due to geographical position. Phoenicians, Syrians, Romans, Crusaders, Venetians or British, they left contributed to art, history and local mentality. Myths and stories are richer here than in any other area of the world.
While tension between Turkey and Greece is very tense, tourists do not suffer from this conflict, on the contrary. The rivalry between them consists in providing travel services as well.
Tourists here can enjoy varied landscapes: forested mountains, beaches groomed, crystal waters, unique routes, rich vineyards, plus Venetian walls, Crusader castles and Roman mosaics. Also the nightlife is typical Mediterranean islands, customary nightclubs and venues for parties. During the day you can go hiking, water sports, cycling, skiing (snow), beach, fishing and other sports or leisure activities.
The most important cities are: Ayia Napa, Limassol, Ppahos, Larnaca, hotels and accommodation all featuring both luxurious and affordable.
The most prominent attractions of the island are:
- Cyprus Museum, with many "rich" archaeological Folk Art Museum, New Archbishop's Palace, the Cathedral of St. John, Byzantine churches, Makarios Cultural Center, Omeriye Mosque, all located in the capital Nicosia.
- In Larnaca Agios Lazaros Church can be visited, Byzantine Museum, Larnaca Fort, Archaeological Museum, Museum of Paleontology Torniritis-may lose or remains Kition. Near the airport are located Hala Sultan Tekke, a historic mosque with impressive gardens and Larnaca Salt Lake.
- The western hills are located: village of Lefkara, famous for making lace, Monastery of Agios Minas Monastery Stavrovouni, Chapel Royal Crusaders.
- In Limassol can be visited: the local castle, the Old Port Medieval Museum, Folk Art Museum, Archaeological Museum or zoo.
- The old city is located Kourion Greco-Roman theater, the summer playing Shakespearean works, but Eustolios's house, acropolis, the ruins of the Roman Forum or Christian Basilica.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Gran Canaria The beauty of diving
The beauty of diving in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria
has become one of the most requested and popular holiday destinations
for diving with a wide range of alternative scenarios and diving schools
to enjoy an exciting day. There are many reasons to travel to Gran
Canaria What’s yours? Gran Canaria has alternative places and corners to
practice your skills as a diver. In that sense, this time we plan to
tour the various spaces and inspiring places to experience in a busy
day.
Gran Canaria Beach
Diving Islands. Our starting point originates in Buceo Canarias,
an establishment recommended for people who want to start in the sport
but do not have too much knowledge. In this place you may receive
technical and professional assistance by a group of specialists in
addition to immersing yourself with privileged tours that show you all
the charm of Gran Canaria.
Gran Canaria Auditorio de la Palmas
Diving Mirafondos. Now
is the time to take a look at the benefits of this establishment which
boasts a generous expanse of blue sea, marine species, coral diversity
and a number of businesses buying and selling to spend a nice day. Ideal
for the whole family.
Gran Canaria Sundown
Northern Diving. with
all the beauty and glamor of the coast of Gran Canaria, this dive center
has been designed especially for more experienced athletes with
different complex surfaces and difficult paths that will add a dash of
adrenaline to your travels.
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