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Overview and Essential Travel Information - Manila, Philippines

 This place was Amazing visited Oct 26, 2004

OVERVIEW Manila has officially 6 million inhabitants (unofficially more than 9 millions)and it is one of the most exhausting cities in Southeast Asia. Don't expect to get any rest. For that kind of thing you need to take a plane to one of the smaller islands. Manila is the capital of the Philippines and was founded in 1571 around Manila Bay on the east coast of Luzon, the largest and most northerly island. It is by far the biggest city in the country. Manila started out as a humble village and has grown to become the governmental, commercial and educational centre of the nation. The heart of old Manila can be found inside the Intramuros, the original Spanish settlement. The fort and St. Augustine Church still are good examples of colonial architecture. The University of Santo Tomas is one of the oldest universities in Asia. It has a very interesting Arts and Science Museum. SIGHTS Coconut Palace The Coconut Palace in the Cultural Centre in Malate is actually a guesthouse that was built for the Pope's visit in 1981 (in which he refused to stay) by order of Imelda Marcos, and cost USD10 million to complete. Coconut Palace was built entirely of palm wood and coconut shells and therefore got its name from the materials used in the construction - more than 70% of the materials come from the coconut tree. Take a guided tour and see the 24-carat gold fixtures in the bathrooms. Malacanang Palace The former residence of Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos can now be visited. It is located on José P. Laurel Street is a graceful mansion, about 200 years old. Many Spanish and American governor-generals and later presidents used it as a residence. Because of its previous use, the palace is sometimes referred to as the Philippines White House. The mansion is still exactly as was when the Marcos family fled to Hawaii in 1986. Fort Santiago Fort Santiago is the ruined old Spanish fort, now used as a park. A collection of rusting cars which belonged to previous Presidents dot the park. The climb to the top of Fort Santiago is worth the view of the Pasig River. During World War II, the Japanese used the fort as a prison. The dungeons are below the high-tide level and sometimes prisoners drowned here. Right at the end of the war the Japanese started on a wholesale massacre of prisoners, and in one small cell the bodies of 600 people were later found. The Rizal Shrine Museum is probably the most interesting part of the fort. It is filled with items that were used or made by the Filipino martyr, José Rizal, including a farewell poem he wrote on the eve of his execution. The rooms where he was held before his execution can be visited. Intramuros Intramuros is the oldest part of Manila. The original Malay settlement was destroyed in 1574, and the Spaniards rebuilt it as a wooden fort, which was replaced by a stone complex in 1590. It slowly grew into the fortified city that is now known as Intramuros. The walls around the city were 3km (1.9 miles) long, 13m (43ft) thick and 6m (20ft) high. Seven main drawbridges across the surrounding moat provided access into the city. The moat was later filled in and today it is a golf course. Among the buildings in the walled city were 15 churches, six monasteries, a university, schools, offices, a hospital, a printing press and many impressive houses but the walls were about all left standing after World War II. The best time to wander around Intramuros is early in the morning before the heat of the day. Rizal Park Get away from it all and take a stroll in Rizal park. The park is a meeting place for the whole city, with Sundays being particularly popular days for a stroll and an ice cream. The Rizal Memorial is situated at the end of the park, and the place where Rizal was executed late in the 19th century is not too far away. This site is marked by a series of statues, depicting Rizal before the execution squad. The hero's remains lie within the cornerstone of the memorial, where a lightshow centering on the story is shown every evening. The park end at Taft Avenue has a huge pond with a three-dimensional map of the country. The map can be seen in its entirety from the 3-metre (10-foot)-high viewing platform. The park also contains a Japanese and Chinese garden, planetarium, fountains, roller-skating circuit and amusement park for children. NOTICE This work is licensed under the Creative Commons License, and originated from World66.com. For more information see: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/1.0

posted Oct 26, 2004 | Comments (0)

Overview and Essential Travel Information - Dubai, United Arab Emirates

 This place was Amazing visited Oct 26, 2004

OVERVIEW Dubai is one of the seven states which make up the United Arab Emirates. Dubai has a long-standing trading tradition that has brought visitors from throughout the Middle East and neighbouring regions. Today, Dubai plays host to an increasing number of visitors from the West and the Far East. The city attracts travellers seeking something new and different, offering international facilities combined with the adventure of the Middle East, and exotic destination with a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Dubai is also the undisputed "sports capital of the Middle East", hosting world class international events that attract some of the biggest names in their respective sports, whether in golf, tennis, horse racing, rallying powerboating, rugby, or sailing. Historically speaking Dubai began as a small fishing settlement. Around 1830 the settlement was taken over by a branch of the Bani Yas tribe from the Liwa Oais led by the Maktoum family who still rule the Emirate today. GETTING THERE Dubai is served by most major airlines, with frequent service from Emirates and KLM. NOTICE This work is licensed under the Creative Commons License, and originated from World66.com. For more information see: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/1.0

posted Oct 26, 2004 | Comments (0)

Overview and Essential Travel Information - Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel

 This place was Amazing visited Oct 26, 2004

OVERVIEW Tel Aviv is the most modern and westernized place in Israel. Jerusalem is the official capital (although not internationally recognized as such) and the religiuos capital, Tel Aviv is the party capital (almost officialy recognized). When you walk the streets at night you can hardly imagine you are in the holy land. Sidewalk cafes give the city a decidedly European flavor and shopping at the enclosed Dizengoff Center is pleasant. Tel Aviv is also the business center of Israel, and has the largest percentage of young people. Jaffa is the old arabic part of Tel Aviv. It is much older (Tel Aviv was founded in 1909) and is now some sort of the Quartier Latin of the city. Although it has many small and trendy boutiques it still retains some of its flavour as an arabic city. The best reason to come to Tel Aviv is to have a good time, the nightlife is great, there are good restaurants, there are so many shops, the beaches aren't bad and there is always something going on. A good place for trendy shopping would be Sheinkin street; Kikar Hamedina is known for its upscale (and expencive) shops; and Azrielly center, Ramat Aviv mall and Dizengoff center would answer all your shopping mall needs. Alternatively, you can check out Shuk HaCarmel, a large street market held daily on Carmel St. Bazel street has the best coffee places; Lilinblum street is where you'll find all night partys and bars; and you should'nt miss the beach- for sunbathing and babe watching. NOTICE This work is licensed under the Creative Commons License, and originated from World66.com. For more information see: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/1.0

posted Oct 26, 2004 | Comments (0)

Overview and Essential Travel Information - Nicosia, Cyprus

 This place was Amazing visited Oct 26, 2004

OVERVIEW Nicosia / Levkosia or Levkosa, like the Turkish people call the city, is still a divided city (since 1974) – there is a Turkish part, that belongs to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and a Greek part. The Greek part of Nicosia is the capital of Cyprus’ Republic and its largest city, which has a population of about 170.000. The atmosphere is modern and traditional, dynamic and calm at the same time. Its without any doubt the most interesting city on the island and very different from the tranquility of the rest of the islands towns and villages. Nicosia is the seat of government and home to all major business. What really characterizes the city is the borderline. It crosses streets, alleys and even houses and gardens. On many corners you will see small bunkers and guard posts, manned with armed soldiers. Historically, Nicosia is divided into an old city within the ancient city walls and a new part. But nowadays the political border splits the old city in two. Many parts of the ancient city wall show you, where the city once ended. The inner streets are but narrow alleys; many of the houses are old and protected by law, but very often neglected. A big restoration plan for the old city, which started in 1981, will change the citys face. A small – and now very touristic – section has already undergone restoration: Laiki Yitonia, “neighbourhood of the people”, impresses us now with its narrow alleys, small shops and restaurants and it gives us an impression of what Nicosia looked like three centuries ago. The new city spreads southward, with only an occasional high rise in its center. The suburbs are wide residential quarters, with small cottages and private villas. The main business center is also located there – between the triangle of Stasinos, Makarios III and Evagora Streets. Turkish Nicosia, here called Levkosa, is north of the dividing “Green Line”. There is only one border crossing in Nicosia, near the old Ledra Palace Hotel. Cypriots are not allowed to cross the borderline; only tourists can get a daily visa – without bigger complications. It is a somehow strange feeling, to be able to switch the areas more or less easily, whereas locals are not allowed to visit their old home villages on the opposite side for now more than 25 years. The difference between the Greek and the Turkish part is easy to recognize. While the Greek new city in the south is modern and lively, Levkosa is traditional in style and facilities. There are several gothic structures and sights, as Selimiye and the Bedesten Mosque or the Lapidary Museum. There is also a number of Ottoman style public buildings, such as the Arabahmet Mosque, the Büyük Han (Great Inn) or the Kumarcilar Han (Gamblers Inn). SIGHTS Within an hours walk starting from Laiki Ytonia and strolling through the old city you will get a good impression of what happened to this extraordinary city during the last centuries. Agios Ioannis Cathedral North of the Bishopric Palace you will find this Greek Orthodox Church. Built in 1662 on the foundations of a 15th century Beneductine Monastery, its impressive interiors house a series of reproductions of 18th century works of art. Open Mon - Sat 8am - noon and 2pm - 4pm. Entrance free. Archbishopric Palace Not as its name assumed, the Archbishopric Palace is a modern, impressive mansion, built in Byzantine style (1955 - 60). Corner of Kyprianos and Zenon of Kitium Streets. Liberty Monument This monument on the corner of Nikoforos Phokas and Koraes Streets commemorates the release of EOKA (People's Army for Enosis) Cyprian patriots in 1959. Panagia Phaneromeni Church Situated in Onasagoras Street this fine Orthodox Church will draw your attention. It was rebuild on ancient remains (1300 AD) at the end of the 19th century (1872/73). In 1938 a new bell tower was added and its bells were brought from England in 1940/41. The church was named after a nunnery of the same name, which once stood on this spot. It belonged to Panayia (Virgin Mary) Phanoromeni and the nuns were silk weavers who were engaged in charitable works. After the ottoman occupation of Cyprus in 1571, the turks attempted to turn the church into a mosque. They were unsuccessful. What today characterises the Panagia Phaneromeni Church is its interior. The iconostasis dates from 1659 and is adorned with old icons bearing rich illustrations. The ancient icon of the Holy Virgin, after which the church is named, is kept at the Byzantine Museum og the Archbishop Makarios Cultural Centre in Nicosia. A copy of this magnificent icon was painted bz the well-known Cypriot painter Adamantios Diamantis in 1924. The icon is covered in silver with a goldplated cover made in 1851. Laiki Ytonia This restored area of the old city is the pride of all Nicosians and the center of the capital’s life. Restoration began in 1981, and included renewal and reconstruction of all structures within the target area. Now the streets are lined with small art-and-craft shops, boutiques and galleries. The project won 1988 the “Pomme d’Or”, a prestigious biennal international prize. GETTING AROUND The urban bus transportation service is quite good. It connects the various sections of the town. Its main terminal is on Solomos Square, not far from Laiki Yitonia . Lots of private taxis cruise along all the main streets, and can be hailed at will. GETTING THERE By air: Greek Nicosia has no operative airport today. The old one was partially destroyed in Civil War 1974. Turkish Levkosa is served by the small Ercan Airport, where only planes from and to Turkey arrive and depart. By land: The only highway on Cyprus joins Nicosia with Limassol, about 50 miles south-westwards. The KEMEK bus company runs an hourly bus service between Nicosia and Limassol (Tel: 02 – 463989 or 05 – 363241). Nicosia Terminal is on Dionysus Solomos Square. Troodos is connected with Nicosia by two daily buses: KEMEK and Solea bus. Another Solea bus runs several times a day between Nicosia and Kakopetria. There are also buses between Nicosia and Agia Napa, for further information, ask CTO (see Practical Things). SHOPPING Main shopping area within the ancient city walls is on Ledra Street, a narrow ending at an army post, on the Green Line. The street is lined with many small shops, and some rather good footwear outlets. Several handicraft shops sell silver, copper and lace. For more attractive shop windows, stroll along Evagoras Ave., where you will find Stefanel, Benetton, Woolworth and Marks&Spencer. At the corner of Digheni Street and Theodotou Street, south-east of the old city, you will find the open market. NOTICE This work is licensed under the Creative Commons License, and originated from World66.com. For more information see: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/1.0

posted Oct 26, 2004 | Comments (0)

Overview and Essential Travel Information - Aleppo, Syria

 This place was Amazing visited Oct 26, 2004

OVERVIEW Aleppo is one of the most interesting cities in the Middle East. The old centre, the citadel and the Jdeide quarter are main sights. The old town is one big maze of streets, but luckily the parts around it are a bit more organized. Baron street is one major axis of town. At the crossing with al Kouwatly street you will find hotels, travel agencies, transport company offices, as well as some restaurants and food shops and cool fruit juice bars. A left turn from the Baron street into the al Kouwatly street brings you to a wide esplanade recently planted out as public gardens, dominated by the Post Office and bordered on the north by a public park. The river Quweiq flows through it and it is famous for its floral displays. (It is dry today because Turkey stopped its flow years ago). In the other direction the al Kouwatly street crosses the al Gassaniyn street (sometimes called the Tilal street), one of the busiest streets in Aleppo. On the right, it widens to form a square, the Bab al Faraj, whose clock-tower has served at least as a landmark and from here, one can easily reach either the old city or the museum. The al Gassaniyn to the left skirts the Jdeideh, "old houses" quarter, with its marvelously decorated courtyards. St. George's Cathedral stands behind a labyrinth of narrow streets on a tiny square where there are several antique shops. Once in the center. the citadel is your main point of reference. There is a circular road around the foot of the Citadel. To the south, wide avenues give access to some interesting madrassas and mosques on the way to Bab al Makkam, a working district where there are many warehouses. To the north of the Citadel the street al Kawakbi crosses the eastern end of the street al Kouwatly near the picturesque souk of the coppersmiths. SIGHTS The Antioch Gate leada directly into the central axis through the souks; the street behind it is covered by vaulted roof for most of its 800 meters and brings us out as the foot of the mound on which the Citadel stands. Bab Antakia can be reached by going through an archway on the northwest corner of the ramparts and taking the first narrow street to the right. This leads up to the rampark walk, lined today with houses; there is a good view down onto the crowded esplanade. Bab Antakia The Antioch Gate leada directly into the central axis through the souks; the street behind it is covered by vaulted roof for most of its 800 meters and brings us out as the foot of the mound on which the Citadel stands. Bab Antakia can be reached by going through an archway on the northwest corner of the ramparts and taking the first narrow street to the right. This leads up to the rampark walk, lined today with houses; there is a good view down onto the crowded esplanade. Bab el Makkam The street Bab al Makkam, lined with warehouses and enclosures containing sheep and even dromedaries, leads to an open-air morning market near the ancient town gate or Bab. The Great Mosque The Great Mosque was founded in the early Islamic period but there is little to see that dates from that time. Its somewhat heavy style shows it to be mainly Mamluk, but its beautiful minaret, which rises straight from the street, dates from 1090 and is with its fine proportions and Kufic inscriptions a good example of the great period of Islamic architecture in Syria. The north facade of the Great Mosque forms one side of the square crowded with hawkers and peddlers. al Fardaws Madrassa The school of Paradise is one of the loveliest and most moving religious buildings in Aleppo. A dark twisting passageway brings us to a light and beautifully proportioned courtyard. It is a wonderfully peaceful spot; all harmony, sobriety and purity. The high pointed arches are supported on small columns with palm-leaf capitals. There is a great iwan on the north side. The sky is reflected in a pool in the center. In a double domed chamber Mamluks lie buried under the floor in unmarked graves. The bustle of the city seems miles away... Charafyah Madrassa On the square, to the right on leaving the mosque, a two-colored gateway with a honeycomb vault and heavily studded doors beneath, leads into the ancient al Charafyah Madrassa which used to be a library. Unfortunately its lovely decorated windows are half-hidden by ugly accretions, which it would be fairly easy to remove. SHOPPING A visit to the souk enables the tourist to discover something of the town's everyday life and at the same time see monuments which are often no longer used (the madrassas and bimarstans for example) but whose design and decoration is extremely interesting. Along the main axis from Bab Antakia to the Citadel just about every possible kind of goods are offered for sale - food, clothing, perfumes, shoes... What does it matter if tinned goods and plastics are displayed beside freshly gathered vegetables and traditional spices piled up in great gaily colored heaps, if western detergents rub shoulder with red and green beeswax candles; if in the narrow passageway that is the al Irakich souk reserved for the rope-makers, peasants and the last of the camel drivers hesitate between hemp and nylon.... Of course it doesn't matter at all; change is a sign of vitality and the daily life of a people who are both faithful to their traditions and also fully up to date is just as interesting to watch as painfully preserved folklore. The visitor may be a little put off at first but he will soon get used to the setting and appreciate the company of these people - traders, artists and customers - who are so often prepared to be friendly. The semicircular or pointed slightly horseshoe-shaped vaulting, the domes where the streets intersect, all built in fine limestone, are themselves an architectural masterpiece. The thickness of the structure ensures an even temperature all the year round; cool in summer, warm and dry in winter. Opening the top of the vaulting let in sunbeams sometimes and a gentle light throughout the day. Coppersmiths Due north of the Citadel, at right angles to the road which encircles the mound, the street al Kawakbi leads to a quarter where craftsmen abound and the coppersmiths’ hammers can be heard all day. Great sheets of copper are transformed into jugs and pans by their well-aimed blows; a rough outline drawn on the wall is their only pattern. They sell their goods by weight. At the end of this street of copper a beautifully carved entrance leads into an ordinary warehouse. A little covered souk brings us back to the center, crossing the street al Kouwatly near an old gateway, the Bab al Nasr (victory), and joins the street al Moutanabi on which stands a small mosque, the al Mahmandar. It has a curious minaret - a square base becomes first octagonal then cylindrical and each stage is decorated in a different style. It is surmounted by a hideous iron watch tower. NOTICE This work is licensed under the Creative Commons License, and originated from World66.com. For more information see: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/1.0

posted Oct 26, 2004 | Comments (0)