10 best exotic places to take an extended holiday

=-=Southern Spain: Costa del Sol:

The Costa del Sol stretches along just over 150 kilometres of Málaga province and is one of Spain's most popular tourist destinations. The area's mild climate is the root attraction that makes it possible to enjoy the beaches and a wide variety of outdoor activities year round.

*Eastern Costa del Sol*
This is the the 54 kilometre stretch of coast to the east of Malaga city (the capital of Málaga province). Though highly developed from a property point of view, it is not anything like the property development on the western Costa del Sol.

*From Malaga eastwards there are cliffs of up to 200 meters where the Sierra Almijara joins the sea. This section ends at a place called Mara, on a coastal plain. It has an urban landscape surrounded by traditional agriculture.

*Nerja is the most important urban centre on this end of the coast and has grown rapidly. Much of the eastern Costa del Sol's accommodation for tourists is found in Nerja, which is surrounded by tourist pueblos. This town also has one of this area's main tourist attractions - the Nerja Caves, a spectacular find that is open to the public and that hosts an annual music and dance festival within its famous caverns. At the foot of Nerja town a winding footpath joins several coves and there are some nice beaches to be found in this area.

*Western Costa del Sol*

This is the 100km of coastline that begins at Malaga city and stretches westward all the way to the border of Cádiz province. This part of the coast is highly developed in terms of both property and infrastructure and it attracts an important percentage of Spain's international tourism. Communications revolve around Malaga International Airport (8 km west of the city) and the N340 backbone coast highway. In the middle of the Costa the greatly improved district road from San Pedro de Alcantara inland to the historic town of Ronda is the most important inland connection.

10 best exotic places to take an extended holiday

Algarve, Portugal :

Situated on the extreme South of Portugal, this part of the territory was the last to be conquered from the Moors by the Portuguese king in 1292. Traces of the Moorish presence are still seen in its unique architecture - terraces, chimneys and whitewashed houses.
However, the distance that was difficult to cover back in the 13th century is no longer an obstacle thanks to the modern Lisbon-Albufeira-Castro Marim road (IP1) or Faro international airport. So why not visit this charming region, with its idyllic .
temperatures which are ideal for playing golf and other sports. In the northern part of the Algarve, the hills of Espinhação de Cão, Monchique and Caldeirão shelter the coast from strong winds. This brightly coloured region, with its fig trees, orange groves and almond trees in blossom, is also the most verdant and fertile. The southern coastline consists of a long stretch of fabulous sandy beaches, broken up by extraordinary rugged cliffs and fantastic grottoes.

Apart from the wealth of available water sports facilities (the marinas of Vilamoura and Lagos deserves special mention, amongst the various ports and harbours), there are other alternatives, such as tennis courts, famous golf`courses, luxury hotels or quaint holiday resorts and an exciting nightlife.

PLACES OF INTEREST:
>Albufeira

>Alcoutim

>Aljezur

>Castro Marim

>Faro

>Lagoa

>Lagos

>Loule

>Monchique

etc etc.........!

Top 10 places to propose in Europe !!(f)

TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel community, has compiled it’s top 10 places in Europe to propose, according to TripAdvisor travellers and editors.

1: Eiffel Tower, Paris, France:

Confirm Paris’ reputation as the city of love, by proposing at the top of the Eiffel Tower overlooking spectacular views of the city.Afraid of heights? Set the tower as the backdrop by popping the question at nearby Trocadero Park. A TripAdvisor traveller advises, “Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and pop the question atop the Eiffel Tower after enjoying the beautiful views of Paris.”

2. London Eye, London, England:
Lift that special someone off their feet and propose high in the sky on the London Eye - the largest observation wheel in the world. Avoid spectators by hiring a private capsule – complete with champagne – for that special moment. As one TripAdvisor traveller said, “A romantic place to propose might be the Millennium Wheel (or London Eye). It gives you a great view of London.”

3. Oia, Santorini, Greece:

Watch the sun set over the caldera in Oia, on Santorini, overlooking the breathtaking Aegean Sea, renowned for its striking sunsets. Squeeze through the narrow passageways and white buildings, to the cliff-like Kastro walls – known for having the best views. As one TripAdvisor traveller said, “The village of Oia is a romantic village perfect for your proposal plans.”

4. Alhambra, Granada, Spain:

Described as a “pearl set in emeralds” by Moorish poets, the Alhambra in Granada, a former palace and fortress, is a perfect place to propose to your gem. Stroll through the magnificent gardens with cypress-lined walkways and listen to the water dance from the fountains. As one TripAdvisor traveller said, “A great private place [to propose] would be in any garden in the Alhambra in Granada.”

5. Canals of Venice, Venice, Italy:

An over-the-top romantic? Work up the nerve to pop the question while reclining on a gondola, gliding under the Venetian bridges, through the windy canals of Venice. Hire a opera singing gondolier so you’re hands-free for that perfect moment (and response). As one TripAdvisor traveller recommends, “Take a gondola ride and hire a guy to sing. See if he can sing something romantic while you propose. Hide some flowers and champagne for when she says yes.”

6. Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria, Germany:

Propose like royalty at Neuschwanstein Castle, a 19th century Bavarian palace and former home to King Ludwig II. Channel medieval times by riding up the steep hill to the castle, located on Romantic Road, in a charming horse-drawn carriage. According to one TripAdvisor traveller, the Neuschwanstein Castle is “by far the most fairy tale-like building that I have ever visited.”

7. Mount Pilatus, Lucerne, Switzerland:

Don’t get cold feet at the summit of Mount Pilatus near Lucerne Switzerland, after chugging up the side of the mountain on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway. Celebrate by shouting from the mountaintops, featuring panoramic views of more than 70 peaks and five lakes. As one TripAdvisor traveller said, “From the summit you can take the semi-safe trails to the mountain's precipice and really get a feel of the Alps (don't look down!). What a great place to propose to your significant other.”

8. Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy:

For the exhibitionist couple, the Trevi Fountain in Rome guarantees an audience and (ideally) cheering crowd. Toss a coin (not the ring) into the fountain, which legend says will ensure your return to Rome, hopefully not alone. As one TripAdvisor traveller recalled, “At Trevi Fountain, a guy asked his girl to marry him and the whole piazza started cheering.”

9. Charles Bridge, Prague, Czech Republic:

Secure a life long connection at the 13th century Charles Bridge in Prague, featuring dreamy views of the Prague skyline. Lined with baroque statues and protected by three bridge towers, visit this walkway at night for a more peaceful moment. As one TripAdvisor traveller said, “Many people I know proposed on the Charles Bridge at night, very romantic!”

10. Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence, Italy:
With sweeping views of the entire city, Piazza Michelangelo overlooks Florence, the Arno River, and golden Ponte Vecchio Bridge. Get down on one knee near dusk when the crowds disperse, and a magical glow is cast on the city below. As one TripAdvisor traveller said, “Piazzale Michelangelo is the spot....buona fortuna, e auguri, or mazel tov, as the case may be!”

Agra Fort

Overview:

» Agra Fort occupies a significant place on the map of Agra. The foundation of this majestic citadel was laid by Emperor Akbar , the fort is surrounded by a 70-foot high wall. The fort comprises of several buildings inside. The wall has 2 gates, the Delhi Gate and the Amar Singh Gateof which only the Amar Singh gate is now open to the public. The original and grandest entrance was through the Delhi Gate, which leads to the inner portal called the Hathi Pol or Elephant Gate.

Key Attractions of Agra Fort:

>Diwan-i-Khasor Private Audience Hall was adorned with silver leaves on the wooden ceiling. This room was used by the emperor for reception of kings, ambassadors and nobles in private. The Moti Masjid- Also known as the Pearl Mosque was constructed between 1648-54. From outside the structure appears to be made of brick, but inside it is completely made of marble.

>Mussaman BurjA two-storeyed pavilion, where Shahjahan caught the last glimpse of the Taj Mahal before he died.

Other Attractions :

The Agra Fort houses the Royal Pavilions, which were designed to catch the cool breeze across the river. Other attractions comprise of the Macchi Bhawan or the Fish Palace, the Hammam-i-Shahi or the Royal Bath, the Nagina Masjid or the Gem Mosque, and the Zenana Meena Bazaar, where the ladies of the court would browse through goods like silk, jewellery and brocade.

Red Fort Delhi

Through the pages of history.....

The Red Fort stands as the result of the decision of Shahjahan in 1639, to shift his capital to New Delhi from Agra. Within eight years, Shahjahanabad was completed with the Red Fort-Qila-i-Mubarak (fortunate citadel)-New Delhi's seventh fort.

Specimen of artisitic brilliance- red fort:

The Red Fort stands witness to the glorious Indian history and architecture. This fort built behind red sandstone walls gives the fort its name. The Red Fort or Lal Qila reiterates the period of Moghul magnificence. This famous citadel comprises of massive audience halls and marble palaces. The architecture was accentuated with precious stones when constructed.

The two main gateways are the Lahore Gate and the Delhi Gate.

>The Red Fort is to be entered by the Delhi Gate, that leads to the Hathi Pol or Elephant Gate. >The Diwan-e-am and the Diwan-e-khas are pavilions from where the king addressed the common people and the elite respectively.

>The Rang Mahal is a water-cooled apartment for the royal ladies and in the basement of the fort there is a market where one can buy traditional Indian goods at very competitive rates.

>The Khas Mahal and Sheesh Mahal are exquisitely decorated halls, that radiate the brilliance and splendor of Mughal royalty.

>The Lahore Gate opens to Chatta Chowk which as once a royal market . The arcade was also known as Meena bazar.

>Moti Masjid (pearl mosque) was a private mosque built by by Aurangzeb (Shahjahan's son) for his personal use.

Chittoragarh Fort












Chittor a city which finds its place in the Great Indian Epic Mahabharta has the Fort known as the Chittorgardh Fort. Famously known for the beautiful Queen Rani PADMAVATI, it can be reached either from Delhi (14hrs), Udaipur (3 hrs), Or Jaipur (8 hrs) by road. Luxury buses/ Tourist buses and cabs which are easily avialable from all these places.

Flashback

It is one fort among other fortresses filled with legends of bravery, love and romance. It dates back to 7th century to the kingdom of Mayuras who first built this fort. Chittorgarh was captured in 1303 by Ala-ud-din Khilji who was then the King of Delhi. In the 16th century Mewar bacame the leading Rajput dynasty. Mewar is also known for two famous personalities Meera - the famous Indian Spiritual poetess who sang in worship of Lord Krishna and Maharana Pratap - the valiant King.

The Fort

Formed in the shape of a fish, it stands on a top hill that is 180m high with a 28 sq km site. Some of its Stupas (pillars) were made by the Mayuras in the 7th century. It has three main gates called as Padal Pol, Bhairon Pol, Hanuman Pol and Ram Pol (Gate). The fort stands its attraction due to the sculpture and the architecture it has. A river seperates the Fort from the rest of the city. This fort is also famous for the beautiful Queen Padmini whose beauty from the word of mouth attracted Ala-ul-din to have a glimpse of her and then later on a wrong intention to possess her. However his evil plans were laid off when the Queen went on to do Jauhar (a mass suicide by the woman in a pyre of the lost warriors of a war).

In and Around

» Padminis Palace : On the southern side of the Fort, there lies the Padminis Fort with a Lotus Pond with central pavillion - the summer palace of the King. The story goes by that it is the same pond where the Glimpse of the Queen Padmini prompted Ala-ud-din to possess her. Near this palace is the prison where the captives were kept.

» Tower of Fame : This Kirti Stambha dates from the 12th century and is smaller in height than the Tower of Victoty. It not made by any King but a Jain (one who followed Jainism), is dedicated to Adinath , the first Tirthankar (one of the 24 revered Jain teachers). It has the sculptures of various Tirthankaras. It is seven storied; though no one is allowed to move inside the tower.

Not to be Missed

» Mewar Festival : It is celebrated to welcome the coming of the spring. The women folk gather dressed in local Rajasthani dress and then carry out processions in various parts of the city with pomp and show. Dances of Rajasthani style and local songs fill the air on this occassion. The procession usually finds its end in the Pichola lake in Udaipur. Fireworks mark the end of the festival.

Ranthambore Fort One of the most beautiful forts built in its era, it showcases the historical developments of Rajasthan. Lying near the place called Sawai Madhopur it can be easily reached from Jaipur by road.

Flashback

The Chauhan Rajputs were the architects of the fortress of Ranthambore. The Chauhan King Prithvi Raj III was subsequently defeated by Muhhammad of Ghaur in 1192. The Sultan of Illtumish captured Ranthambore in 1226,but it was taken over by the Chauhans in 1236 after the death of Illtumish. Then the fort was again captured by the Mewars under Rana Hamir Singh (1226-1364) and Rana Khumba (1433-1468). It was captured by Rana Udai Singh (1768-1473), and then passed on to HADA Rajputs. Then it was captured by the King of Gujarat (1532-1555) from whom it was taken over by Mughal Emperor Akbar. The fortress was last captured by Kachwaha Maharajas of Jaipur, and it remained a part of Jaipur till independence of India.

The Fort

There are three temples inside the fort dedicated to Ganesha, Shiva and Ramlalji built in 12th and 13th century. The fort is also said to be the site where a number of Jauhars (ritual mass suicide by immolation of self) in the Rajput History. From a distance the fort almost looks indispensible and incredible looking out over the lotus filled lake of Padma Talab which lies in the rampants. It has an area of 405sq kms giving a view of the Badal Mahal ( Cloud Palace).

In and Around

» Pushkar Ka Mela : In the month of Kartika (October - November), in Pushkar there is this Camel Fair held on one of the holiest days of Hindus. Each year around 200,000 people converge here, bringing along them around 50,000 camels and cattle for trade. The place blends itself into with musicians, mystics, tourists, traders, devotees and camel crews. Its a MUST SEE FESTIVE.

Not to be Missed

» Ganesh Chaturthi :The Ranthambore Tiger reserve has a beautiful temple of Ganesha (Lord of Intellect). Here each year in the month of September/October the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with Pomp and Show. It is thought that all auspicious functions of Hindus should began with the first invitation to Lord Ganesha. This festival marks this school of thought.