Page not found – Country Reference https://www.extrareference.com Tue, 26 Mar 2024 05:11:03 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.25 Christianity in Afghanistan https://www.extrareference.com/christianity-in-afghanistan.html Tue, 26 Mar 2024 05:11:03 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1783 Christianity in Afghanistan has a long and complex history, dating back to antiquity. While Christianity was once a significant presence in the region, particularly during the early centuries of the Common Era, its influence has waned over time due to various factors, including Islamic conquests, cultural shifts, and political changes.

Early Christian Presence:

According to thereligionfaqs, Christianity is believed to have arrived in Afghanistan as early as the 1st century CE, following the spread of the religion from its origins in the Levant. Ancient trade routes, such as the Silk Road, facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and religions, including Christianity, between the Mediterranean world and Central Asia.

One of the earliest Christian communities in Afghanistan was established in the city of Herat, located in the western part of the country. Herat, known as Alexandria in Ariana during antiquity, was a major center of trade and culture along the Silk Road, attracting merchants, scholars, and religious figures from diverse backgrounds.

Christianity under the Sassanian Empire:

During the Sassanian Empire (224-651 CE), which ruled over Persia and parts of Central Asia, Christianity flourished in certain regions of present-day Afghanistan. The Sassanian rulers, who followed the Zoroastrian faith, generally tolerated religious diversity, allowing Christian communities to coexist alongside other faiths.

The city of Balkh, located in northern Afghanistan, emerged as another center of Christianity during this period. Balkh, known as Bactra in antiquity, was a thriving metropolis and a hub of cultural exchange, where Christian missionaries and merchants interacted with local populations.

Christianity under Islamic Rule:

The rise of Islam in the 7th century CE brought significant changes to Afghanistan and the broader region. With the Arab conquests of the 7th and 8th centuries, Islam became the dominant religion, supplanting Christianity and other faiths in many areas.

Despite the spread of Islam, some Christian communities persisted in Afghanistan, particularly in remote mountainous regions where they maintained their religious practices and traditions. However, over time, the influence of Christianity diminished, and the religion gradually became marginalized in the predominantly Muslim society.

Archaeological and Cultural Legacy:

Afghanistan’s rich archaeological heritage bears witness to its multicultural past, including its Christian heritage. Numerous archaeological sites and artifacts dating back to the ancient and medieval periods attest to the presence of Christian communities in the region.

One of the most notable archaeological sites associated with early Christianity in Afghanistan is the ancient city of Mes Aynak, located in Logar Province. Mes Aynak was a thriving Buddhist center during antiquity, but it also had a significant Christian presence, as evidenced by the discovery of Christian artifacts and inscriptions at the site.

Other archaeological discoveries, such as ancient churches, monasteries, and Christian gravesites, provide further evidence of Afghanistan’s Christian past. These archaeological remains offer insights into the religious and cultural landscape of ancient Afghanistan and its connections to the wider world.

Contemporary Status of Christianity:

Today, Christianity is a minority religion in Afghanistan, with only a small number of adherents living in the country. Most Christians in Afghanistan are expatriates, including foreign diplomats, aid workers, and military personnel, who practice their faith in private due to the country’s strict Islamic laws and social norms.

The Afghan Constitution officially recognizes Islam as the state religion and prohibits the practice of religions other than Islam in public. This restrictive legal environment makes it challenging for Christians and other religious minorities to openly profess their faith or establish places of worship in Afghanistan.

Despite the challenges, there are reports of small underground Christian communities in Afghanistan, comprised of converts from Islam and foreign nationals who practice their faith discreetly. These clandestine gatherings often take place in private homes or in secret locations to avoid detection and persecution by the authorities.

Conclusion:

The history of Christianity in Afghanistan is a testament to the country’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. From its early beginnings in antiquity to its contemporary status as a minority religion, Christianity has left a lasting imprint on Afghanistan’s archaeological, historical, and cultural landscape.

While Christianity may no longer hold the same prominence it once did in Afghanistan, its legacy endures through archaeological sites, artifacts, and the memories of those who trace their religious roots to ancient Christian communities. As Afghanistan continues to navigate its complex political and social challenges, its diverse religious heritage remains an integral part of its identity and cultural legacy.

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Adjacent Countries of Albania https://www.extrareference.com/adjacent-countries-of-albania.html Wed, 20 Mar 2024 14:36:19 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1780 Albania, a small but vibrant country located in the heart of the Balkans, shares its borders with several neighboring nations, each contributing to the rich tapestry of history, culture, and geopolitics in the region. From the rugged mountains of Montenegro to the ancient cities of Greece, the adjacent countries of Albania offer a diverse array of landscapes, traditions, and perspectives.

Montenegro: The Land of Black Mountain Majesty

To the northwest of Albania lies the picturesque nation of Montenegro, known for its stunning Adriatic coastline, rugged mountains, and rich cultural heritage. The border between Albania and Montenegro traverses some of the most dramatic landscapes in the region, including the towering peaks of the Prokletije Mountains and the pristine waters of Lake Skadar.

According to softwareleverage, Montenegro shares deep historical and cultural ties with Albania, rooted in centuries of shared experiences and interactions. During the medieval period, both regions were part of the Byzantine Empire, and later came under the influence of the Venetian Republic and the Ottoman Empire. These historical connections have left a lasting imprint on the cultural landscapes of both countries, with shared architectural styles, culinary traditions, and linguistic influences.

In addition to cultural affinities, Albania and Montenegro also share common challenges and opportunities in the modern era, including economic development, environmental conservation, and regional cooperation. Efforts to strengthen bilateral ties and enhance cross-border cooperation have led to initiatives in areas such as tourism, trade, and infrastructure development, contributing to the mutual prosperity and well-being of both nations.

Kosovo: Bridging Cultures and Identities

To the northeast of Albania lies the young nation of Kosovo, a landlocked territory with a rich history and complex geopolitical status. The border between Albania and Kosovo is characterized by rugged mountains, deep valleys, and fertile plains, reflecting the diverse topography of the region.

Kosovo holds a special significance for Albania, as it is home to a large ethnic Albanian population that shares language, culture, and identity ties with its neighbors to the south. The historical connections between Albania and Kosovo run deep, dating back to the medieval period when both regions were part of the Byzantine Empire and later came under Ottoman rule.

In the modern era, Kosovo’s declaration of independence from Serbia in 2008 was met with strong support from Albania, which recognized Kosovo as a sovereign state. Since then, Albania has played a pivotal role in supporting Kosovo’s state-building efforts, providing diplomatic, economic, and humanitarian assistance to its neighbor.

Despite shared cultural affinities and historical ties, Albania and Kosovo also face challenges in areas such as economic development, governance, and rule of law. Efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation and promote regional stability are ongoing, with initiatives focused on areas such as infrastructure development, energy security, and youth engagement.

North Macedonia: A Mosaic of Cultures and Traditions

To the east of Albania lies the diverse nation of North Macedonia, a land of scenic beauty, ancient history, and cultural diversity. The border between Albania and North Macedonia traverses mountainous terrain, fertile valleys, and historic towns, reflecting the varied landscapes and ethnic communities of the region.

North Macedonia shares deep historical and cultural ties with Albania, rooted in centuries of shared experiences and interactions. Both regions were part of the Byzantine Empire and later came under Ottoman rule, shaping their linguistic, religious, and architectural heritage. The presence of ethnic Albanian communities in North Macedonia further strengthens the cultural connections between the two countries.

In the modern era, Albania and North Macedonia have forged strong bilateral ties, marked by cooperation in areas such as trade, tourism, and regional security. Efforts to enhance cross-border infrastructure, promote people-to-people exchanges, and address shared challenges have contributed to the mutual prosperity and stability of both nations.

Despite progress in bilateral relations, Albania and North Macedonia continue to face challenges related to economic development, governance, and interethnic relations. Efforts to address these challenges through dialogue, cooperation, and respect for diversity are essential for promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.

Greece: A Tapestry of Ancient and Modern

To the south of Albania lies the storied nation of Greece, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. The border between Albania and Greece is marked by rugged mountains, fertile plains, and the azure waters of the Ionian and Adriatic Seas, creating a diverse and picturesque frontier.

Greece holds a special significance for Albania, as it is home to a large ethnic Albanian population in the southern region of Epirus, known locally as Chameria. The historical connections between Albania and Greece date back to antiquity, with both regions sharing a common heritage rooted in ancient civilizations such as the Illyrians and Greeks.

In the modern era, Albania and Greece have forged strong diplomatic and economic ties, marked by cooperation in areas such as trade, energy, and tourism. Efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and promote regional stability have led to initiatives in areas such as infrastructure development, cultural exchange, and environmental protection.

Despite progress in bilateral relations, Albania and Greece also face challenges related to historical grievances, territorial disputes, and minority rights. Efforts to address these challenges through dialogue, diplomacy, and mutual respect are essential for building trust and cooperation between the two countries.

Conclusion

The adjacent countries of Albania, including Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Greece, form a diverse and interconnected tapestry of history, culture, and geopolitics in the Balkans. Despite differences in language, religion, and political systems, these nations share deep historical and cultural ties, rooted in centuries of shared experiences and interactions.

Efforts to strengthen bilateral relations, promote regional cooperation, and address shared challenges are essential for building peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. By embracing their common heritage and celebrating their diversity, the adjacent countries of Albania can forge a brighter future for generations to come.

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Cape Verde Location on the Globe https://www.extrareference.com/cape-verde-location-on-the-globe.html Tue, 19 Mar 2024 07:56:11 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1779 Cape Verde, officially known as the Republic of Cabo Verde, is an island country located in the central Atlantic Ocean. It is situated off the coast of West Africa, approximately 570 kilometers (350 miles) west of Senegal. Comprising ten main islands and several islets, Cape Verde is known for its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and unique history.

Geographically, Cape Verde is located between latitudes 14° and 18° N and longitudes 22° and 26° W. The archipelago spans an area of approximately 4,033 square kilometers (1,557 square miles), making it one of the smallest countries in Africa. Despite its small size, Cape Verde boasts a diverse range of landscapes, including volcanic peaks, rugged coastlines, and lush valleys.

According to Baglib, the country is divided into two island groups: the Barlavento Islands (Windward Islands) to the north and the Sotavento Islands (Leeward Islands) to the south. The Barlavento Islands include Santo Antão, São Vicente, Santa Luzia (uninhabited), São Nicolau, Sal, and Boa Vista, while the Sotavento Islands consist of Maio, Santiago, Fogo, and Brava.

Cape Verde’s location in the central Atlantic Ocean places it within the subtropical zone, resulting in a warm and dry climate characterized by relatively stable temperatures throughout the year. The archipelago experiences two distinct seasons: the dry season, which typically lasts from November to July, and the rainy season, which occurs from August to October.

The islands’ geographical features have been shaped by volcanic activity, with many of the islands featuring rugged terrain and volcanic peaks. Fogo, one of the most iconic islands in Cape Verde, is home to Pico do Fogo, an active volcano that last erupted in 2014. The volcano’s dramatic landscapes attract visitors from around the world, offering opportunities for hiking, photography, and exploration.

From a historical perspective, Cape Verde’s location has played a significant role in shaping its history and development. The islands were uninhabited when they were discovered by Portuguese explorers in the 15th century. The Portuguese established settlements on the islands, using them as a strategic base for trade and navigation along the West African coast.

During the colonial period, Cape Verde became a center for the transatlantic slave trade, serving as a crucial hub for the transportation of enslaved Africans to the Americas. The islands’ strategic location made them an ideal stopping point for Portuguese ships traveling to and from Africa, Europe, and the New World.

As a result of the slave trade, Cape Verde’s population became ethnically diverse, with influences from Africa, Europe, and other parts of the world. The descendants of enslaved Africans, known as Creoles, make up the majority of the population and have played a significant role in shaping the country’s culture, language, and identity.

In 1975, Cape Verde gained independence from Portugal, becoming a sovereign nation with its own government and constitution. Since gaining independence, Cape Verde has made significant strides in economic development, education, and healthcare, earning recognition as one of Africa’s most stable and democratic countries.

Today, Cape Verde is known for its vibrant culture, music, and cuisine. The archipelago’s cultural heritage reflects its diverse history and influences, with elements of African, European, and Creole traditions. Music plays a central role in Cape Verdean culture, with genres such as morna, coladeira, and funaná providing a soundtrack to daily life.

Morna, in particular, is considered the national music of Cape Verde and is characterized by its soulful melodies and poetic lyrics. The genre gained international recognition through the work of legendary Cape Verdean singer Cesária Évora, known as the “Barefoot Diva,” who popularized morna around the world.

Cape Verdean cuisine is another important aspect of the country’s culture, blending African, European, and Creole flavors to create unique dishes. Seafood features prominently in Cape Verdean cuisine, with fresh fish, lobster, and octopus being staples of the diet. Other popular dishes include cachupa, a hearty stew made with corn, beans, and meat or fish, and pastel de atum, a savory tuna pastry.

In addition to its music and cuisine, Cape Verde is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, which showcase the archipelago’s cultural diversity and heritage. One of the most famous festivals is the Carnival of Mindelo, held annually on the island of São Vicente, featuring colorful parades, music, and dancing.

In conclusion, Cape Verde’s geographical location on the globe places it in the central Atlantic Ocean, approximately 570 kilometers west of Senegal. Its position between latitudes 14° and 18° N and longitudes 22° and 26° W places it within the subtropical zone, resulting in a warm and dry climate year-round. From its diverse landscapes to its vibrant culture and history, Cape Verde offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience that celebrates the archipelago’s rich heritage and identity.

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Albania as a Balkan Countriy https://www.extrareference.com/albania-as-a-balkan-countriy.html Mon, 18 Mar 2024 04:27:44 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1778 Albania, nestled in the heart of the Balkans, is a land of rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and a complex history that has shaped its identity over millennia. From its ancient roots to its modern-day challenges and triumphs, Albania stands as a testament to resilience, diversity, and the enduring spirit of its people. In this essay, we will delve into the multifaceted tapestry of Albania, exploring its historical significance, cultural heritage, and contemporary relevance within the Balkan region.

Historical Overview

The history of Albania stretches back to antiquity, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Paleolithic era. Throughout its history, Albania has been influenced by various civilizations, including the Illyrians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. These diverse influences have left their mark on the country’s culture, language, and traditions.

One of the earliest known inhabitants of the region were the Illyrians, an ancient Indo-European people who inhabited the western Balkans. They established powerful kingdoms and city-states, leaving behind impressive archaeological remains such as the city of Apollonia and the fortress of Shkodra.

In antiquity, Albania was also part of the Roman Empire, and its strategic location made it a vital crossroads for trade and military campaigns. The Romans left behind a legacy of infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and aqueducts, which facilitated the integration of the region into the wider Mediterranean world.

Following the fall of the Roman Empire, Albania came under Byzantine rule before being conquered by the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. Under Ottoman rule, Albania experienced a period of cultural and religious diversity, with Islam becoming the dominant religion while Christianity, particularly the Eastern Orthodox and Catholic faiths, remained significant.

According to nexticle, Albania’s struggle for independence intensified in the 19th century, culminating in the declaration of independence in 1912. However, the newly formed Albanian state faced numerous challenges, including territorial disputes, political instability, and foreign intervention.

Throughout the 20th century, Albania experienced periods of monarchy, dictatorship, and communist rule under Enver Hoxha’s regime, which isolated the country from the rest of the world. Since the fall of communism in 1991, Albania has undergone significant political, social, and economic transformations as it seeks to integrate into the European community.

Cultural Heritage

Albania’s cultural heritage is as diverse as its history, encompassing a blend of Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences. This rich tapestry of cultures is reflected in Albania’s architecture, cuisine, music, and folklore.

One of the most prominent features of Albanian culture is its linguistic diversity, with the Albanian language belonging to the unique Indo-European branch. The language has been influenced by various civilizations throughout history, but it has retained its distinct identity, serving as a symbol of national pride and unity.

Albania’s architectural heritage is equally diverse, with examples ranging from ancient Illyrian ruins to Ottoman mosques and Byzantine churches. Cities like Berat and Gjirokastër are renowned for their well-preserved Ottoman-era houses, characterized by their distinctive stone roofs and narrow streets.

Albanian cuisine is a delicious reflection of the country’s cultural diversity, with influences from Mediterranean, Balkan, and Turkish culinary traditions. Staple ingredients include lamb, dairy products, olive oil, and a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Traditional dishes such as “tavë kosi” (baked lamb with yogurt) and “byrek” (savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach) are beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Music and dance are integral parts of Albanian culture, with a rich tradition of folk music and traditional dances that vary by region. Instruments such as the “lahuta” (a bowed string instrument) and the “çifteli” (a two-stringed instrument) are commonly used in traditional Albanian music, which often features themes of love, honor, and patriotism.

Contemporary Relevance

In the modern era, Albania continues to grapple with the legacies of its past while striving to build a prosperous and democratic future. The country faces numerous challenges, including economic development, political reform, environmental conservation, and social cohesion.

Albania’s aspirations for European integration have been a driving force behind many of its recent reforms, including efforts to improve governance, strengthen the rule of law, and combat corruption. The country’s strategic location in the Balkans also makes it a key player in regional initiatives aimed at promoting stability, security, and cooperation.

Despite these challenges, Albania possesses considerable potential for growth and development, thanks to its abundant natural resources, skilled workforce, and burgeoning tourism industry. The country’s stunning coastline, pristine mountains, and rich cultural heritage make it an attractive destination for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

In recent years, Albania has made significant strides in improving its infrastructure, expanding its tourism sector, and attracting foreign investment. Initiatives such as the restoration of historical sites, the promotion of sustainable tourism, and the development of renewable energy sources have contributed to Albania’s efforts to modernize its economy and protect its natural environment.

Moreover, Albania’s young and dynamic population, coupled with its entrepreneurial spirit and technological innovation, bodes well for its future prospects. As the country continues to navigate the challenges of the 21st century, it remains steadfast in its commitment to building a brighter and more prosperous future for generations to come.

Conclusion

Albania’s journey through history is a testament to the resilience, diversity, and spirit of its people. From its ancient roots to its modern-day aspirations, Albania continues to evolve and adapt in response to the changing dynamics of the Balkans and the wider world.

With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and strategic location, Albania is poised to play an increasingly important role in the economic, political, and cultural landscape of the region. As the country embraces the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century, it remains firmly rooted in its traditions while striving to create a brighter and more prosperous future for all its citizens.

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Geography of Oxford County, Maine https://www.extrareference.com/geography-of-oxford-county-maine.html Thu, 14 Mar 2024 16:11:08 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1776 Oxford County, located in the western part of the U.S. state of Maine, is a region renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and diverse geography. Encompassing an area of approximately 2,175 square miles, Oxford County is situated in the foothills of the White Mountains and is known for its rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and vibrant forests. In this comprehensive overview, we’ll explore the geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other significant features of Oxford County. Check homethodology to learn more about the state of Maine.

Geography:

Oxford County is bordered by the state of New Hampshire to the west, Cumberland County to the south, Androscoggin County to the east, and Franklin County to the north. The county is characterized by its diverse landscape, which includes mountain ranges, valleys, lakes, and rivers. The terrain is predominantly hilly, with elevations ranging from sea level along the Androscoggin River to over 4,000 feet in the White Mountains.

Climate:

The climate of Oxford County is classified as humid continental, with four distinct seasons characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. The region experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with occasional extremes in temperature and weather patterns.

Winters in Oxford County are typically cold and snowy, with average high temperatures in the 20s°F to 30s°F range and occasional sub-zero temperatures. Snowfall is common, particularly in the mountainous areas, and provides opportunities for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. Summers are warm and humid, with average high temperatures in the 70s°F to 80s°F range and occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Fall and spring are transitional seasons, with mild temperatures and colorful foliage.

Rivers:

Oxford County is intersected by several rivers and streams that flow through its valleys and mountains, providing habitat for wildlife and opportunities for outdoor recreation. These rivers and streams also play a vital role in the region’s economy, providing water for agriculture, industry, and municipal use. Some of the notable rivers in Oxford County include:

  1. Androscoggin River: The Androscoggin River forms the eastern boundary of Oxford County, flowing from New Hampshire to the city of Auburn, where it joins the Kennebec River. The river is popular for fishing, particularly for smallmouth bass and trout, and offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and rafting.
  2. Saco River: The Saco River flows through the western part of Oxford County, originating in the White Mountains and flowing southward before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean in Maine. The river is known for its scenic beauty and provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, and tubing.
  3. Swift River: The Swift River is a tributary of the Androscoggin River, flowing through the northern part of Oxford County before joining the main stem near the town of Roxbury. The river is popular for fly fishing and provides habitat for brook trout and other freshwater species.

Lakes:

Oxford County is home to numerous lakes and ponds that dot its landscape, providing habitat for wildlife and opportunities for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. These lakes vary in size and depth and offer scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Some of the notable lakes in Oxford County include:

  1. Rangeley Lake: Rangeley Lake is a large freshwater lake located in the northwestern part of Oxford County, near the town of Rangeley. The lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and abundant fish populations, making it a popular destination for anglers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts.
  2. Mooselookmeguntic Lake: Mooselookmeguntic Lake is another large lake in Oxford County, located adjacent to Rangeley Lake. The lake is known for its scenic beauty and provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
  3. Kezar Lake: Kezar Lake is a picturesque lake located in the southern part of Oxford County, near the town of Lovell. The lake is popular for its clear waters, sandy beaches, and tranquil atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for swimming, boating, and picnicking.

Natural Features:

Oxford County is home to several natural features, including mountains, forests, and waterfalls, that showcase the region’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Some of the notable natural features in Oxford County include:

  1. White Mountains: The White Mountains extend into the northern part of Oxford County, featuring rugged peaks, dense forests, and alpine meadows. The mountains offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing, as well as scenic drives along the Kancamagus Highway.
  2. Grafton Notch State Park: Grafton Notch State Park is located in the western part of Oxford County, near the town of Newry. The park features towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and scenic overlooks, as well as hiking trails and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.

Agriculture:

Agriculture plays a vital role in the economy of Oxford County, with the region being one of the leading producers of dairy products, potatoes, and maple syrup in Maine. The fertile soil, moderate climate, and abundant water supply make it ideal for farming and ranching. Agriculture also contributes to the county’s cultural heritage and identity, with many families having worked the land for generations.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Oxford County, Maine, is a region of breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant communities. From its rugged mountains and pristine lakes to its meandering rivers and lush forests, the county offers a variety of landscapes and ecosystems to explore and enjoy. Whether you’re hiking in the White Mountains, fishing on Rangeley Lake, or exploring the waterfalls of Grafton Notch State Park, Oxford County has something for everyone to experience and appreciate in the great outdoors.

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Geography of Kennebec County, Maine https://www.extrareference.com/geography-of-kennebec-county-maine.html Thu, 14 Mar 2024 06:16:51 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1775 Kennebec County, located in the central part of the state of Maine, is a region of natural beauty, historic significance, and diverse landscapes. From its rolling hills and dense forests to its winding rivers and pristine lakes, Kennebec County offers a wealth of geographical features to explore. In this comprehensive overview, we will delve into the geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other notable aspects of Kennebec County, Maine. Check bittranslators to learn more about the state of Maine.

Geography:

Location: Kennebec County is situated in central Maine, bordered by Somerset County to the northwest, Waldo County to the northeast, Lincoln County to the east, Sagadahoc County to the southeast, and Androscoggin County to the southwest. It is the fourth-most populous county in Maine and is part of the greater Augusta-Waterville metropolitan area.

Topography: The topography of Kennebec County is characterized by rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and numerous lakes and rivers. The county is situated within the Central Maine Highlands and features a mix of forested uplands, fertile river valleys, and rugged terrain.

Kennebec River Valley: The Kennebec River Valley runs through the heart of Kennebec County, providing fertile soils, abundant water resources, and important transportation routes for the region. The river valley is home to numerous towns and communities, as well as agricultural lands and recreational areas.

Lakes and Ponds: Kennebec County is home to numerous lakes and ponds, including popular destinations such as Messalonskee Lake, Great Pond, and Cobbosseecontee Lake. These bodies of water provide opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and other recreational activities, as well as supporting diverse ecosystems and wildlife habitats.

Climate:

Temperate Climate: Kennebec County experiences a temperate climate, characterized by four distinct seasons, moderate precipitation, and occasional extremes in temperature.

Temperature: Average temperatures in Kennebec County range from 15°F to 80°F (-9°C to 27°C) throughout the year, with the coldest months occurring from December to February and the warmest months from June to August.

Precipitation: Kennebec County receives an average of 40 to 45 inches (1,015 to 1,140 mm) of precipitation annually, with rainfall distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. Snowfall is common in winter, with average snowfall ranging from 50 to 70 inches (1,270 to 1,780 mm) per year.

Severe Weather: Kennebec County is susceptible to severe weather events such as thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and occasional winter storms. Severe weather can pose risks to residents and property, necessitating preparedness and safety measures.

Rivers and Lakes:

Kennebec River: The Kennebec River is the most significant waterway in Kennebec County, flowing southward through the heart of the region. The river provides important habitat for aquatic life, as well as opportunities for boating, fishing, paddling, and scenic beauty along its banks.

Androscoggin River: The Androscoggin River forms part of the southern border of Kennebec County, serving as a major tributary of the Kennebec River. The river provides important water resources for the region, as well as opportunities for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.

Lakes and Ponds: Kennebec County is home to numerous lakes and ponds, ranging in size from small, secluded ponds to large, expansive lakes. These bodies of water provide opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and other recreational activities, as well as supporting diverse ecosystems and wildlife habitats.

Historic Sites and Landmarks:

Augusta: The city of Augusta, located in Kennebec County, is the state capital of Maine and is home to numerous historic sites and landmarks. Visitors can explore the Maine State House, the Maine State Museum, and historic downtown Augusta, which features well-preserved buildings dating back to the 19th century.

Waterville: The city of Waterville, also located in Kennebec County, is home to Colby College, a prestigious liberal arts institution founded in 1813. The college campus features beautiful architecture, scenic landscapes, and cultural attractions such as the Colby College Museum of Art.

Hallowell: The town of Hallowell, situated along the Kennebec River in Kennebec County, is known for its historic downtown district, which features well-preserved buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can explore local shops, restaurants, art galleries, and historic sites, as well as enjoy scenic views of the river.

Outdoor Recreation:

Hiking and Camping: Kennebec County offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, and nature walks. The region is home to several state parks, conservation areas, and nature preserves that provide scenic trails, campgrounds, and recreational facilities for visitors of all ages.

Fishing and Boating: With its abundance of rivers, lakes, and ponds, Kennebec County is an ideal destination for fishing and boating enthusiasts. The waterways offer opportunities to catch a variety of freshwater fish, including bass, trout, salmon, and perch, as well as opportunities for boating, kayaking, and canoeing.

Hunting and Wildlife Viewing: Kennebec County is a popular destination for hunting and wildlife viewing, with abundant populations of deer, moose, bear, and other game species. The region’s forests, wetlands, and wildlife management areas provide excellent habitat for wildlife, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.

Conclusion:

Kennebec County, Maine, is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and outdoor recreation opportunities. From its scenic rivers and lakes to its historic towns and landmarks, the county provides a diverse array of landscapes and attractions to explore. Whether you’re hiking along the Kennebec River, exploring historic downtown Augusta, or fishing on Messalonskee Lake, Kennebec County has something for everyone to discover and enjoy.

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Geography of Piscataquis County, Maine https://www.extrareference.com/geography-of-piscataquis-county-maine.html Wed, 13 Mar 2024 17:32:07 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1774 Geography of Piscataquis County, Maine

Piscataquis County, located in the central part of the state of Maine, is a region characterized by its rugged natural beauty, abundant waterways, and diverse ecosystems. Spanning approximately 4,377 square miles, it is the largest county in Maine by land area, encompassing a variety of landscapes, from dense forests and rolling hills to pristine lakes and rivers. This article will explore the geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other notable features that define Piscataquis County. Check allunitconverters to learn more about the state of Maine.

Physical Features:

  • Forests and Woodlands: Much of Piscataquis County is covered by forests and woodlands, consisting primarily of coniferous trees such as spruce, fir, and pine, as well as deciduous trees like maple, birch, and oak. These forests are part of the larger Northern Forest region of the United States and provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including deer, moose, black bears, and numerous bird species. The county’s forests also support the timber industry, which has been an important economic driver for the region for centuries.
  • Rolling Hills and Valleys: The terrain of Piscataquis County is characterized by rolling hills, valleys, and ridges, formed by glacial activity during the last Ice Age. The landscape is relatively rugged, with elevations ranging from sea level along the county’s eastern border to over 4,000 feet in the western part of the county, where the peaks of the Appalachian Mountains are found. The valleys and lowlands are often home to small farms, while the hills and mountains provide opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking, hunting, and skiing.
  • Waterways: Piscataquis County is home to numerous rivers, streams, and lakes, which play a crucial role in shaping the county’s landscape and supporting its ecosystems. The Piscataquis River, for which the county is named, is one of the major waterways in the region, flowing from its headwaters near the Canadian border to its confluence with the Penobscot River in the town of Howland. Other significant rivers in the county include the Sebec River, Pleasant River, and Moosehead Lake’s tributaries. These waterways provide habitat for fish, waterfowl, and other wildlife and offer opportunities for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting.

Climate:

Piscataquis County experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons, cold winters, and warm summers.

  • Summer: Summers in Piscataquis County are generally mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures averaging in the 70s to 80s°F (21-27°C). Humidity levels are relatively low compared to other parts of the country, making outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing popular among residents and visitors alike. Summer also brings occasional thunderstorms, which can bring heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds to the area.
  • Fall: Fall in Piscataquis County is a spectacular season characterized by vibrant foliage, cooler temperatures, and crisp, clear days. Daytime temperatures gradually decrease, with highs ranging from the 50s to 60s°F (10-20°C), while nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing. The changing colors of the leaves attract tourists from near and far, who come to experience the county’s scenic beauty and enjoy outdoor activities such as leaf-peeping, hiking, and apple picking.
  • Winter: Winters in Piscataquis County are cold and snowy, with daytime temperatures often below freezing and nighttime temperatures dropping into the single digits or below zero°F (-18°C). Snowfall is common, with the county receiving an average of 70 to 100 inches of snow annually, particularly in the higher elevations. Winter activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing are popular, as are indoor activities like cozying up by the fireplace with a hot cocoa.
  • Spring: Spring in Piscataquis County is a time of transition, as the snow melts, temperatures warm up, and the landscape comes alive with new growth. Daytime temperatures gradually rise, with highs ranging from the 40s to 60s°F (4-16°C), while nighttime temperatures remain cool. Spring brings the return of migratory birds, the blooming of wildflowers, and the emergence of greenery, signaling the start of the growing season and outdoor activities such as gardening, birdwatching, and nature walks.

Rivers and Lakes:

  • Moosehead Lake: Moosehead Lake is the largest lake in Maine and one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Piscataquis County. Covering approximately 120 square miles, the lake offers a wide range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, and camping. Fish species found in Moosehead Lake include brook trout, lake trout, landlocked salmon, and smallmouth bass, making it a popular destination for anglers of all skill levels. The lake is also surrounded by scenic woodlands, mountains, and wildlife habitats, providing opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography.
  • Piscataquis River: The Piscataquis River is one of the major waterways in Piscataquis County, flowing from its headwaters near the Canadian border to its confluence with the Penobscot River in the town of Howland. The river provides habitat for fish, waterfowl, and other wildlife and offers opportunities for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. Several access points along the river allow for recreational activities such as picnicking, hiking, and camping.

Human Impact:

  • Forestry: Forestry has been a major industry in Piscataquis County for centuries, with the county’s vast forests providing a valuable source of timber and wood products. Logging and timber harvesting operations are common throughout the county, supporting jobs, income, and revenue for the local economy. Sustainable forestry practices are increasingly emphasized, with efforts to balance economic development with environmental conservation and habitat protection.
  • Tourism: Tourism is an important economic driver in Piscataquis County, driven by its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and cultural attractions. Visitors come from near and far to experience the county’s scenic landscapes, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting are popular, as are cultural and historical attractions such as museums, art galleries, and festivals celebrating the county’s heritage.
  • Conservation: Conservation efforts are underway in Piscataquis County to protect and preserve its natural resources for future generations. Organizations such as the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, the Nature Conservancy, and local conservation groups work to conserve open space, protect wildlife habitat, and promote sustainable land use practices. Efforts are also underway to address environmental issues such as habitat fragmentation, water pollution, and climate change, with initiatives to restore wetlands, improve water quality, and reduce carbon emissions.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Piscataquis County, Maine, offers a diverse mix of natural landscapes, outdoor recreational opportunities, and cultural heritage. From its forests and mountains to its lakes and rivers, the county boasts a rich tapestry of geography, climate, and culture. While facing challenges such as climate change, habitat loss, and economic development, Piscataquis County remains a resilient and vibrant community with a deep connection to its land and heritage. Through collaboration, innovation, and sustainable practices, the county continues to balance economic growth with the protection of its natural resources, ensuring a prosperous future for generations to come.

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Geography of Santa Cruz County, Arizona https://www.extrareference.com/geography-of-santa-cruz-county-arizona.html Mon, 11 Mar 2024 17:46:21 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1772 Santa Cruz County, situated in the southern part of Arizona, is a region known for its diverse geography, ranging from desert landscapes to mountainous terrains. The county’s climate, rivers, lakes, and other natural features contribute to its unique character and play a vital role in shaping its ecosystems, economy, and lifestyle. To understand the geography of Santa Cruz County, we will explore its climate, topography, water bodies, and the various elements that define this southwestern corner of the United States. Check ehuacom to learn more about the state of Arizona.

Climate: Santa Cruz County experiences a desert climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The region is part of the Sonoran Desert, known for its vast stretches of arid land. Summers bring high temperatures, often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), while winters are generally mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 21 degrees Celsius). The county receives relatively low annual precipitation, making water conservation a crucial consideration for both residents and the local ecosystem.

Topography: The topography of Santa Cruz County is diverse, encompassing both lowland desert areas and elevated mountainous terrain. The Santa Rita Mountains and the Patagonia Mountains are prominent features in the county, providing a scenic backdrop and influencing local weather patterns. The elevation varies widely, with lowland desert areas lying at around 3,000 feet (900 meters) and mountain peaks reaching elevations of over 9,000 feet (2,700 meters). This diverse topography contributes to a range of ecosystems and habitats within the county.

Rivers: The Santa Cruz River, a significant watercourse in the region, flows through Santa Cruz County, providing a lifeline for both natural and human communities. The river originates in Mexico, crosses the international border into Arizona, and meanders through the county before reaching Pima County. While the flow of the Santa Cruz River can be intermittent, it remains a vital water source for wildlife and vegetation. Additionally, the river has played a historical role in the development of human settlements in the area.

San Rafael Valley: Located in the southeastern part of Santa Cruz County, the San Rafael Valley is a picturesque high-altitude grassland surrounded by mountain ranges. This valley, with its rolling hills and open spaces, is known for its scenic beauty and serves as a habitat for diverse plant and animal species. The valley’s elevation, ranging from 4,800 to 6,000 feet (1,500 to 1,800 meters), contributes to a milder climate compared to the lower desert regions, making it an attractive area for ranching and outdoor activities.

Lakes and Reservoirs: While Santa Cruz County does not have large natural lakes, it is home to several reservoirs that contribute to water management and recreation. Patagonia Lake, located in the Patagonia Lake State Park, is one such reservoir, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping. The lake, formed by the damming of Sonoita Creek, attracts both locals and tourists seeking a respite from the desert heat. These water bodies play a role in supporting local ecosystems and provide recreational outlets for residents and visitors alike.

Flora and Fauna: The diverse geography of Santa Cruz County supports a wide variety of flora and fauna, adapted to the challenges of the desert environment. In the lower elevations, saguaro cacti, creosote bushes, and mesquite trees dominate the landscape. As elevation increases, vegetation transitions to include oak and pine forests in the mountainous regions. The county is home to diverse wildlife, including mule deer, javelina, coyotes, and a rich array of bird species. The region’s biodiversity makes it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Agriculture: Agriculture has been a historically significant activity in Santa Cruz County, supported by irrigation from the Santa Cruz River and other water sources. Crops such as cotton, wheat, and various vegetables are cultivated in the fertile valleys, contributing to the local economy. The county’s agricultural heritage is evident in the patchwork of fields and orchards that dot the landscape, coexisting with natural habitats and enhancing the region’s visual diversity.

Border with Mexico: Santa Cruz County shares a border with Mexico, forming part of the international boundary between the United States and Mexico. The border region, with its unique challenges and opportunities, has been a focal point for discussions on immigration, trade, and cultural exchange. Nogales, a city split between Arizona and the Mexican state of Sonora, straddles the border and serves as a vital economic hub for the region.

Challenges and Conservation Efforts: Santa Cruz County faces various challenges related to water scarcity, habitat fragmentation, and the conservation of its unique ecosystems. The management of water resources, especially in the context of prolonged droughts, is a critical concern. Efforts to balance the needs of agriculture, urban areas, and natural habitats are ongoing. Conservation initiatives, including the establishment of protected areas and wildlife corridors, aim to preserve the county’s biodiversity and maintain the ecological balance in the face of increasing human activities.

In summary, the geography of Santa Cruz County, Arizona, is characterized by a diverse blend of desert landscapes, mountainous terrain, and river valleys. The county’s climate, topography, and water sources contribute to a rich tapestry of ecosystems, supporting a variety of plant and animal life. As the region continues to evolve, the delicate balance between development and conservation will play a crucial role in preserving the unique character and natural beauty of Santa Cruz County.

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Landmarks in Western Sahara https://www.extrareference.com/landmarks-in-western-sahara.html Sun, 10 Mar 2024 02:03:02 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1768 Western Sahara, situated in North Africa, is a region known for its vast desert landscapes, nomadic traditions, and the complex geopolitical situation surrounding its status. While Western Sahara may not have the same abundance of globally renowned landmarks as some other regions, it does possess unique sites that showcase its cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance. In this exploration, we will delve into some of the notable landmarks and features of Western Sahara, shedding light on the distinct characteristics that define this region.

Laayoune – Capital and Cultural Center

Moulay Abdellah Quarter

According to baglib, Laayoune, the largest city and capital of Western Sahara, is characterized by the Moulay Abdellah Quarter, a vibrant district that serves as a cultural and commercial hub. Here, visitors can explore local markets, experience traditional Sahrawi cuisine, and witness the dynamic daily life of the community. The quarter reflects the resilience and identity of the Sahrawi people, who have maintained their cultural traditions in the face of geopolitical challenges.

Laayoune Grand Mosque

The Laayoune Grand Mosque stands as a prominent landmark in the city, embodying Islamic architecture and serving as a spiritual center for the local community. The mosque’s design incorporates traditional elements, and its importance extends beyond its architectural significance, symbolizing the role of Islam in Sahrawi culture.

Dakhla – Coastal Oasis

Dakhla Peninsula

Dakhla, located on a narrow peninsula along the Atlantic Ocean, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and unique blend of desert and coastal environments. The Dakhla Peninsula offers pristine beaches, sand dunes, and lagoons, creating a haven for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. The serene beauty of the peninsula makes it a notable landmark, providing a tranquil escape amidst the arid surroundings.

Boujdour – Sahrawi Heritage

Boujdour Fort

Boujdour, a town in Western Sahara, is home to Boujdour Fort, a historical structure that reflects the region’s past. The fort, built during the Spanish colonial era, stands as a testament to the complex history of Western Sahara. While not an architectural marvel, the fort carries historical significance, providing a glimpse into the colonial influences that have shaped the region.

Smara – Cultural Significance

Smara

Smara, a city in Western Sahara, holds cultural significance as a center for the Sahrawi people. While it may not boast grand architectural landmarks, Smara is a symbol of Sahrawi identity and resilience. The city’s historical and cultural heritage is expressed through its traditional structures, communal spaces, and the stories of its people.

El Aaiún – Gateway to Western Sahara

El Aaiún

El Aaiún, also known as Laayoune, is the largest city and the de facto capital of Western Sahara. While the city itself may not have monumental landmarks, its role as the administrative and economic center of the region is noteworthy. El Aaiún serves as a gateway for those exploring Western Sahara, offering a blend of modern urban life and glimpses into Sahrawi traditions.

Natural Wonders – Endless Desert Scapes

Hamada du Draa

The Hamada du Draa, a vast rocky plateau extending through parts of Western Sahara, showcases the region’s arid and expansive desert landscapes. While not a traditional landmark, the Hamada du Draa is a natural wonder that defines the terrain of Western Sahara. Its rocky outcrops, expansive plains, and nomadic trails contribute to the unique character of the region.

Erg Chebbi

While Erg Chebbi is more commonly associated with neighboring Morocco, its southern edges extend into the disputed territory of Western Sahara. Erg Chebbi is famous for its towering sand dunes that shift and change shape with the wind. The surreal beauty of the desert, especially during sunrise and sunset, creates an otherworldly atmosphere.

Geopolitical Significance

Moroccan Wall (Berm)

The Moroccan Wall, often referred to as the Berm, is a sand and stone barrier built by Morocco to control and monitor the movements in the region. Stretching for hundreds of kilometers, the wall is not a traditional landmark but plays a crucial role in the geopolitical context of Western Sahara. Its existence symbolizes the ongoing dispute over the status of the territory.

Sahrawi Culture – Nomadic Traditions

Nomadic Camps

Sahrawi nomadic camps, although not fixed landmarks, represent the essence of the region’s cultural heritage. The nomadic lifestyle of the Sahrawi people revolves around their ability to adapt to the harsh desert environment. These camps, featuring traditional tents and communal spaces, showcase the resilience and resourcefulness of the Sahrawi nomadic traditions.

Conclusion

Western Sahara, characterized by vast desert landscapes and a complex geopolitical situation, may not have the traditional landmarks often associated with other regions. Instead, its landmarks are rooted in the cultural resilience of the Sahrawi people, the unique blend of desert and coastal environments, and the ongoing geopolitical challenges that shape its identity.

While the disputed status of Western Sahara has limited the development of conventional tourist landmarks, the region’s natural beauty, historical structures, and nomadic traditions contribute to its distinct charm. Western Sahara’s landmarks, both natural and cultural, offer a nuanced understanding of a region that continues to navigate a complex historical and political landscape.

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Geography of Belmont County, Ohio https://www.extrareference.com/geography-of-belmont-county-ohio.html Tue, 05 Mar 2024 06:44:46 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1767 Belmont County, located in eastern Ohio, is characterized by its diverse geography, ranging from rolling hills and river valleys to industrial areas and cultural landmarks. The county’s landscape, climate, water features, and historical sites contribute to its unique identity. Understanding the geography of Belmont County involves exploring these elements that shape the region.

Geography:

Topography and Landforms: According to Franciscogardening, Belmont County is part of the Appalachian Plateau, a region known for its rolling hills, dissected plateaus, and river valleys. The terrain is a mix of wooded hillsides, open farmland, and areas of urban and industrial development. The county’s topography reflects the broader Appalachian landscape that extends across eastern Ohio.

The Ohio River, forming the county’s eastern border, is a prominent geographic feature that influences the region’s development and provides a natural boundary.

Climate:

Belmont County experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. The climate is influenced by its inland location and the presence of the Appalachian Mountains to the east. Winters can be cold, with occasional snowfall, while summers are warm and humid.

Average temperatures range from the mid-20s Fahrenheit in winter to the mid-80s Fahrenheit in summer. The diverse geography of the county contributes to microclimates, with temperature variations across different areas.

Rivers and Waterways: The Ohio River, one of the major tributaries of the Mississippi River, forms Belmont County’s eastern border. The river serves as a vital waterway for transportation and has historically played a crucial role in the region’s economic development. The presence of the Ohio River influences the county’s access to trade routes and contributes to its cultural and historical significance.

Several smaller rivers and creeks, including Captina Creek and Pipe Creek, flow through Belmont County, adding to its water resources and shaping the local landscape.

Lakes and Reservoirs: Belmont County is not known for large natural lakes, but it has smaller reservoirs and impoundments that contribute to local water management. Piedmont Lake, located in the southwestern part of the county, is a reservoir created by the Piedmont Dam. The lake provides recreational opportunities and supports wildlife habitats.

While natural lakes are limited, these reservoirs enhance the county’s water resources and offer spaces for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation.

Flora and Fauna:

The county’s flora and fauna reflect the diversity of its landscapes. Forested areas, particularly in the hills and valleys, support hardwood trees such as oak and maple. Open fields and farmland contribute to the county’s agricultural character.

The region is home to various wildlife species, including white-tailed deer, squirrels, and a variety of bird species. Conservation efforts and responsible land management contribute to the preservation of natural habitats and biodiversity.

Agriculture:

Agriculture is a significant component of Belmont County’s economy and geography. The fertile soils of the river valleys and plateaus support the cultivation of crops such as corn, soybeans, and hay. Livestock farming, including cattle and poultry production, is also prevalent in the county.

The agricultural landscape contributes to the county’s rural character, and farming activities play a crucial role in the local economy.

Urban and Industrial Areas:

Belmont County has urban and industrial areas that contribute to its economic vitality. The city of St. Clairsville, the county seat, serves as an urban center with government offices, services, and cultural amenities. The city has a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial zones.

The Ohio River’s presence has historically facilitated industrial development, with several towns and areas along the river hosting industrial facilities and businesses. The industrial landscape is part of the county’s economic diversity.

Cultural and Historical Sites:

Belmont County has a rich cultural and historical heritage, evident in its landmarks and sites. Historic structures, including old farmhouses and barns, showcase the county’s pioneer history. The Blaine Hill “S” Bridge, a historic iron truss bridge, is an iconic structure that spans Wheeling Creek and represents the engineering history of the region.

The National Road, one of the earliest major highways in the United States, passes through Belmont County, with historical sites and markers commemorating its significance in westward expansion.

Outdoor Recreation:

The diverse geography of Belmont County provides opportunities for outdoor recreation. The hills and valleys offer scenic landscapes for hiking and nature walks. Piedmont Lake and other water bodies provide spaces for fishing, boating, and birdwatching.

The county’s parks and natural areas contribute to its recreational appeal, with facilities for picnics, sports, and community events.

Oil and Gas Resources:

Belmont County is part of the Marcellus and Utica shale formations, making it a significant area for oil and gas development. The extraction of natural gas and oil has brought economic opportunities to the region. Belmont County is part of the larger Appalachian Basin, contributing to the energy resources of the state.

The presence of oil and gas resources has led to increased economic activity, employment opportunities, and infrastructure development in the county.

Transportation and Connectivity:

Belmont County is well-connected by a network of highways, including Interstate 70, providing east-west connectivity, and various state routes. The Ohio River serves as a natural transportation corridor, historically facilitating trade and commerce.

While the county does not have a major airport, it is accessible by nearby airports in larger cities for air travel.

Conclusion:

Belmont County, Ohio, with its diverse landscapes, agricultural plains, and industrial history, stands as a region shaped by its natural resources and cultural heritage. The Ohio River, Appalachian Plateau, and the intersection of agriculture and industry contribute to the county’s identity, offering a mix of economic activities, outdoor recreation, and historical charm. As residents and visitors explore the landscapes, engage in outdoor pursuits, and learn about the county’s history, they become part of the dynamic tapestry that defines the unique geography and heritage of Belmont County.

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Geography of Anderson County, Kentucky https://www.extrareference.com/geography-of-anderson-county-kentucky.html Mon, 04 Mar 2024 04:16:56 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1765 Geography of Anderson County, Kentucky

Anderson County, nestled in the heart of the Bluegrass region of Kentucky, is a picturesque area known for its rolling hills, fertile farmland, and scenic beauty. Encompassing approximately 204 square miles, the county is characterized by its diverse landscapes, meandering rivers, and abundant natural resources. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the intricate details of Anderson County’s geography, including its climate, rivers, lakes, and notable landmarks.

Geographical Features:

According to ezinereligion, Anderson County’s landscape is defined by its gently rolling hills, which are interspersed with lush valleys, woodlands, and meadows. The county lies within the Inner Bluegrass region of Kentucky, an area renowned for its fertile soil and ideal conditions for horse breeding and agriculture.

The topography of Anderson County is influenced by the underlying limestone bedrock, which has been sculpted over millions of years by erosion from rivers and streams. This geological process has created a distinctive karst landscape characterized by sinkholes, caves, and underground springs.

Climate:

Anderson County experiences a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons characterized by hot, humid summers and cool, mild winters. The region’s climate is influenced by its location in the interior of the North American continent, as well as its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains and the Ohio River Valley.

Summer temperatures in Anderson County can be warm, with highs averaging in the 80s°F (27-32°C), while winter temperatures are cool, with highs averaging in the 40s°F (4-9°C) and lows occasionally dropping below freezing. The county receives moderate precipitation throughout the year, with slightly higher amounts in the spring and early summer.

Rivers and Waterways:

Anderson County is traversed by several rivers and waterways that contribute to its scenic beauty and ecological diversity. The Kentucky River, one of the county’s major waterways, flows along its northern border, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and recreational activities.

In addition to the Kentucky River, Anderson County is home to several smaller streams and creeks, including Salt River, Benson Creek, and Beaver Creek. These waterways not only support local ecosystems but also play a vital role in agriculture, providing irrigation for crops and livestock.

Lakes and Reservoirs:

While Anderson County is not known for its natural lakes, it is home to several man-made reservoirs and ponds that offer recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Beaver Lake, located near Lawrenceburg, is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and picnicking, with its scenic shoreline and tranquil waters attracting outdoor enthusiasts year-round.

In addition to Beaver Lake, Anderson County is dotted with smaller lakes and ponds, including Elmer Davis Lake and Willisburg Lake. These water bodies provide serene settings for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and leisurely activities, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the county’s natural beauty.

Notable Landmarks:

Beyond its natural features, Anderson County boasts several notable landmarks and attractions that showcase its rich history and cultural heritage. Lawrenceburg, the county seat, is home to the Anderson County Historical Society Museum, where visitors can learn about the region’s history through exhibits, artifacts, and archival materials.

Another iconic landmark in Anderson County is Wild Turkey Distillery, located near Lawrenceburg. The distillery, which produces some of the world’s finest bourbon whiskey, offers guided tours, tastings, and educational programs that provide insights into the distilling process and the history of bourbon in Kentucky.

In conclusion, Anderson County, Kentucky, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural heritage. From its rolling hills and scenic rivers to its historic landmarks and bourbon distilleries, the county’s geography reflects the timeless allure of the Bluegrass region. Whether exploring its picturesque landscapes, sampling its world-renowned bourbon, or learning about its rich history, Anderson County invites visitors to experience the charm and hospitality of central Kentucky.

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Things to Do in Nepal https://www.extrareference.com/things-to-do-in-nepal.html Fri, 10 Feb 2023 07:23:48 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1468 Entertainment and attractions of Nepal

In the south of the country is the town of Lumbini – a place that is considered the birthplace of the Buddha. There is a temple in honor of his mother, as well as many Buddhist temples built in different architectural styles by countries where Buddhism is practiced.

Pokhara is the second largest city in Nepal and one of the most popular resorts in the country, located on the shores of the beautiful Phewa Lake. All the details about the sights of Nepal – on the page “Subtleties of tourism”.

Meditation Courses
These unique courses can be taken in Kopan, located 25 km east of Kathmandu. The approximate program of the day of these classes consists of morning meditation, study, discussion of the morning lecture, meditation under the guidance of a mentor, discussion of the results of the day. The cost of the program per person for seven days is around 650 USD. In addition, here you can take part in an annual “advanced” meditation course lasting one month, communicate with members of the sangha, use an extensive library with a large department of specialized literature, and take temporary solitude under the guidance of experienced specialists. And then continue the meditation and yoga training program at the Khansada Yoga Center.

4 things to do in Nepal

  1. As a souvenir, purchase a piece of jewelry and art in one of the workshops of Lalitpur.
  2. Refresh yourself with apple cider and delicious pies in the town of Marfa.
  3. In October, during the Dasain festival, visit the Dakshinkali temple, it is at this time that the central sculpture of the goddess Kali is buried in the blood of the sacrifices that the Nepalese bring here. The temple is located 20 km from Kathmandu. Even a special bus runs here on the days of sacrifice: Tuesday and Friday, you can also use a mountain bike.
  4. Try what an elephant safari is like in the Royal Chitwan Garden.

Leisure

On the territory of Nepal there are ten highest peaks in the world, in the vicinity of which thousands of routes are laid – from simple and short (for 3-4 days), to long and extremely difficult (for 3-4 weeks). The six most popular trails are the Everest Base Camp trek, the Helambu trek, the Langtang trek, and the three Annapurna treks. The first of these three – to the village of Jomsom, the second – around Annapurna, the third – to the Sanctuary of the Annapurna peaks.

For lovers of mountain biking in Nepal – a real expanse. You can rent a bike in Kathmandu, Pokhara or other cities. Bicycle tours are organized especially for bikers: a multi-day route is provided with meals, hotels or campsites booked along the way, and equipment rental.

Fans of fishing will also have an excellent opportunity to indulge in their favorite hobby in Nepal. Magshir is found in the local rivers – fish of the carp family, reaching more than 20 kg of weight.

In addition, rafting, kayaking or other watercraft are popular. There are several rivers in Nepal where rafting is carried out.

On the territory of Nepal there are ten highest peaks in the world, in the vicinity of which thousands of routes are laid – from simple and short (for 3-4 days), to long and extremely difficult (for 3-4 weeks).

National parks of Nepal

Annapurna National Park, Chitwan and Sagarmatha. Visitors to national parks and reserves are charged an entrance fee – from 500 to 3000 NPR per person per day.

To visit all national parks, you need to issue two documents: a TIMS book (Trekker’s Information Management System) – registration of a trekking participant before going on the route. The book comes in green (for individuals) and brown (for members of an organized group) colors. To obtain it, you need to fill out an application form and attach two 3×4 cm photos. And permission (permit), for which you also need to fill out an application form and attach two 3×4 cm photos NB! Without TIMS, a permit is not issued.

Both documents can be issued at the Tourist Service Center or at the checkpoint in Dunche. TIMS books are issued before 16:00 (free of charge), permits are usually paid for and finish work earlier. For example, permission to visit the Langtang National Park is issued only until 15:00 2318 NPR).

Climate of Nepal

In areas below 1000 m above sea level, summers are hot – from +30 °C, and winters are warm: +20 °C. In mountainous areas, there is no intense heat in summer, and cool winters (at night there are frosts down to -4 ° C). In summer, heavy rains fall. See citypopulationreview.com for weather information.

See also the weather forecast for the main resorts and cities of Nepal.

Things to Do in Nepal

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Havana, Cuba https://www.extrareference.com/havana-cuba.html Fri, 03 Feb 2023 07:40:55 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1465 The capital of Liberty Island and its main tourist center Havana is less than two years away from its 500th anniversary. The architecture of the times of the Spanish colonial domination is adjacent here to the ultra-modern skyscrapers made of concrete and glass. The city is very picturesque: the center of Old Havana with narrow colonial streets is the very history of the country and its capital – the catalog of historical monuments alone includes over 900 objects. During the day, colorful shows are constantly held here, and in the evening cabarets open their doors.

Havana is a colorful and attractive city, one of the most unusual in the whole world. The recognizable and memorable atmosphere, many attractions and a special mood in the air attract travelers here and allow you to immerse yourself in the wonderful world of the island’s capital. According to petwithsupplies, Havana is one of the largest cities in Cuba.

Of the 47 km of coastline, 20 are beaches suitable for diving and fishing in the open sea. But to rest on them, you have to drive a little away from Havana.

Beaches

Despite the fact that Havana is located on the Atlantic coast, there are no good beaches in the city. To sunbathe and swim, you need to drive a little from the center. The first good beaches start within a 15-minute drive and stretch for 20 km. They are called “Eastern”, this is a snow-white coral coast, along which there are many good hotels. These include several dozen beaches: Bakuranao, Tarara, Playa de las Hermanitas, Playas de Este, Santa Maria del Mar, Playa de El Rincon, Playa Veneziana, etc.

Often travelers stay in hotels on the coast, and go to the center to see the sights. Free buses run from hotels, and from the city you can only get to the beaches for money.

Entrance to all beaches is free, but in some places you will have to pay 3-5 CUC for sunbeds. Those who wish can sunbathe on a towel: the sand is very soft. The entrance to the water is gentle, but it is important to understand that this is an ocean, which means that there can be strong waves and reverse currents. Although this rarely happens in the Havana area.

There are not many entertainments on the shore, occasionally there are cafes, but at every step they sell coconut milk and fruits, and there are also merchants offering beads made of corals or shells. Since many hotels have been built along the ocean, you can go to eat in them. Some beaches are equipped with changing cabins, toilets and showers.

Diving

Diving is well developed in the vicinity of Havana. There are 5 international centers here, which in total cover an area of ​​almost 100 km along the coast. Even the famous Jacques Yves Cousteau often visited these places during his underwater expeditions. And for tourists from Russia, diving off the coast of Havana will also seem very original, since the natural conditions here are almost unique.

During diving, you can not only get acquainted with the amazing underwater world of the region, but also see the sunken ships. For example, an interesting ship lies at a depth of 14 m near Bakuranao Beach, it was wrecked almost 100 years ago, the crew was rescued, and the ship itself was perfectly preserved. But the largest dive site is located in the Tarara beach area, where there are underwater rocks, sunken ships, and a diverse wildlife.

In some places, future divers are not asked about their experience and are allowed into the water literally “on parole”, so you should be sober about your skills and not impersonate an experienced diver if you are not confident in your abilities.

Many centers offer training for beginners, including a full course with a certificate. Equipment can be rented, it is presented in a large assortment and excellent quality.

Cuisine and restaurants in Havana

There are plenty of places in Havana where you can taste traditional Cuban cuisine called “cochina criolla” and combines Spanish, African and Colombian features. Basically, these simple, uncomplicated and mild dishes are served in restaurants where prices can be unexpectedly high, but the service will be excellent. The Cuban capital has both public and private restaurants. If the place is called “paladares” – it is a private establishment, it will offer a small selection of very tasty dishes. From fast food, pizzerias and kiosks serving hot dogs are popular. On the streets, you can eat sweet buns and waffles from trays.

It is worth trying black beans, or congris – rice mixed with them, potaje soup, again with beans. Meat dishes, fish and seafood are very popular.

Ice cream deserves special attention. It is excellent here, and it is served mainly in specialized cafes, for example, in the old town of Copellia (Calle L, 2111), which has become a filming location more than once.

If the local food leaves many indifferent, then it is simply impossible to pass by the drinks. Hundreds of cocktails are made from the national treasure – rum, Hatuey beer is very popular in Havana, and for those who do not drink alcohol, they make fruit juices and cocktails called “batidos”. It is interesting to try a drink made from fresh sugar cane “guarapo” – less sweet than you might think, as well as a juice based on guava.

The bar “La Bodeguita del Medio”, where Hemingway himself visited, is located on Calle Empedrado, 207. Tasty, interesting, but very expensive.

Entertainment and attractions in Havana

Havana is an ancient city with a lot of attractions. First of all, Old Havana, or Havana Vieja is interesting. This is a fairly large area, which has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List for almost 25 years and is gradually, albeit very slowly, being restored. Here you can see the square de Armas, Obispo Street with colonial mansions, the castle of De La Real Fuerza and the Cathedral.

The second most attractive district of the city is Center, or the center of Havana, although the border is very arbitrary. The famous Capitol, the Bolshoi Theater, whose fantastic building is really considered one of the largest buildings of opera houses in the world, the Museum of the Revolution, dedicated to the political life of Cuba, deserve attention.

It is very pleasant to walk along the shady Prado boulevard or Paseo de Marti, as well as along the Malecon, which stretches for 7 km along the entire city.

A short distance away lie the areas of Vedado and Plaza, where tourists inspect the large-scale memorial of José Marti, the treasury of funerary art of the Colon cemetery and the huge Revolution Square (Plaza de la Revoluсion).

In the vicinity of the city are the fortress of La Cabaña with the Museum of Che Guevara, the Hemingway House Museum, where the interior, garden and even the cat’s cemetery have been preserved, and the impressive Tres Reyes del Morro castle, the best view of which opens from the Malecon promenade.

The city itself can be admired from the observation decks of the José Martí Memorial, the Saratoga Hotel, Nacional de Cuba and Tryp Habana Libre, as well as from the del Morro Castle.

  • What to see in Old Havana

5 things to do in Havana

  1. Feel the grandeur of the Capitol and see its interiors.
  2. Take a ride in an old American car with Cuban music playing on the radio and in a Coco Taxi.
  3. Heed the advice of Hemingway, who wrote: “My mojitos in La Bodeguita”, and try the cocktails of this legendary institution.
  4. Walk through the streets of Old Havana, never ceasing to be surprised by the contrasts of life here.
  5. Smile at the little pioneers, laugh and dance with the locals, and try to understand how people in such a poor country can be so happy.

Leisure

Ernest Hemingway was very fond of Cuba and especially praised the local fishing. Modern tourists can follow the example of the writer and go on deep sea fishing. The club offers the best opportunities. Ham, located in the western part of Havana (Calle 248 y Avenida 5a). They also rent yachts for sea voyages.

In Havana, there is an excellent riding center (in Lenin Park) where you can ride a horse on your own or with an instructor. Local stadiums host sports competitions in baseball, which Cubans themselves adore, boxing or cycling. Tickets for matches are very cheap, and a fascinating spectacle is guaranteed.

Weather

The climate in Havana is subtropical, the island is located under the Tropic of Cancer, there are 330 sunny days a year. The city has two seasons – dry and rainy, the first lasts from December to April, the second – the rest of the year. Winters are a bit cooler, but overall the weather is warm and the air is very humid. Due to the refreshing breezes, the heat is easily tolerated, but you can burn yourself unnoticed in the sun.

The most suitable time for a trip is around the New Year and a couple of months after it.

Havana, Cuba

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Rogaška Slatina, Slovenia https://www.extrareference.com/rogaska-slatina-slovenia.html Fri, 30 Dec 2022 03:22:34 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1462 Rogaska Slatina resort is located in the east of Slovenia, at an altitude of 228 m above sea level, 108 km from Ljubljana. Thanks to the unique mineral water Donat Mg (over 13 grams of minerals per liter) and its favorable location, it is considered one of the most beautiful, well-known and professionally prepared medical tourism centers in Europe. The resort also pays great attention to sports and tourism.

Note: according to allcitypopulation, the population of Slovenia is 2.107 million (2021).

Among other things, this place is full of legends, and one of the most popular is the history of the emergence of the city and unique natural mineral springs. The mythological horse Pegasus, once flying over the territory of present-day Slovenia, was so fascinated by the stunning views of these lands that he decided to go down and look at them. His hoof touched a hollow, a mineral spring spouted from the depths of the earth, not far from the place where Rogaška Slatina is today. It is believed that the gods thereby allowed people to feed on the energy of the earth and be treated for various diseases. Over time, people began to settle on the hills around the springs, so a resort with a 400-year history and its world-famous Donat Mg healing mineral water appeared.

How to get to Rogaška Slatina

All hotels in the resort offer a private transfer from Ljubljana Airport. On your own you can get to Rogaška Slatina by rail or by bus.

Rogaska Slatina Hotels

In Rogaška Slatina, there are seven small hotels-sanatoriums, “threes” and “fours” equally. The service in them is at a decent level, but there is practically no entertainment – this is understandable: they come here first of all to improve their health. The best of them are Atlantida Boutique Hotel, Grand Hotel Donat, Grand Hotel Sava and Grand Hotel Rogaška. The hotels are located in the heart of the resort next to the medical center and pump room.

Atlántida Boutique 5 * is a great place for those who are looking for peace and relaxation from everyday stress. Grand Hotel Sava Rogaska 4 * is famous for its health and wellness center ROI Medico. They specialize in programs using local natural resources, in addition, the hotel has the only pool in the resort with thermal and mineral water.

On the central alley of the Slovenian resort, there is an exquisite, like a royal palace, the Grand Hotel Rogaska 4 *. The hotel building, built during the reign of Emperor Ferdinand, is surrounded by a lush garden. The completely renovated Grand Hotel Donat Superior is located in the heart of the Rogaška Slatina spa area. On the territory of the hotel there are: a traditional Russian bath, Finnish saunas, Turkish hammam, hot tubs, as well as indoor and outdoor pools.

Treatment in Rogaška Slatina

The basics of treatment at the resort are drinking mineral water, balneotherapy and dietary nutrition. Since 1985, it has been registered as a center for the prevention and recovery of the body in cases of gastroenterological diseases and metabolic disorders. There are a large number of general and specialized outpatient clinics in the field of gastroenterology, cardiology, physiotherapy, dermatology, psychiatry, gynecology, blood vessel surgery and plastic surgery. Diseases of the oral cavity are treated by the modern Dental Studio.

The resort successfully treats diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes, eliminates overweight problems, dysfunction of the large intestine and many other diseases. Systemic treatment with Donat Mg water allows you to reduce negative effects and avoid complications from long-term medication, and in some cases, completely stop taking pills.

The Rogaska Riviera complex was built on the territory of the resort, consisting of several pools with thermal water connected to each other with a total area of ​​860 sq.m. The water temperature in the pools is +30..+36 °C.

The new Terme Lotus center (belongs to the Sava and Zagreb hotels) offers, among other things, Indian massage and cosmetology techniques. The Hygieia Dermatological Studio offers specialist check-ups, consultations, minor surgeries, laser hair removal and treatment of changes in the circulatory system. The resort also has the Vis Vita Center, which opened in December 2005, and the Sawam Traditional Thai Therapy Center.

Therapeutic procedures: balneotherapy, mineral water drinking, aromatherapy (general, partial, anti-cellulite), hydrotherapy (hydromassage, Stanger galvanic bath, cell bath, pearl, aromatized, herbal baths), kinesiotherapy, mechanotherapy, magnetotherapy, electrotherapy, physiotherapy, massages (full, partial, shiatsu, traditional Thai massage, foot reflex massage), inhalations (with mineral water or herbal), psychotherapy.

Rogaška Medical Center

In Rogaška there is a modern and world-class “Medical Center Rogaška”, which has more than 50 doctors of various specialties. The center, which combines medical, cosmetic and medical rehabilitation services, specializes in the treatment of a number of diseases: chronic gastroenterological, metabolic, psychosomatic, as well as the consequences associated with a sedentary lifestyle. Comprehensive rehabilitation treatment is based on a program of special procedures and the intake of Donat Mg water, which has a beneficial effect on the digestive system and metabolic diseases. The high quality of services and the safety of procedures is confirmed by the Accreditation Canada Platinum certificate, which the Rogaška Medical Center received due to the high international standards of medical care.

  • Rogaška Slatina Map

Cuisine and restaurants in Rogaška Slatina

The city has several eateries and restaurants with national cuisine. It makes sense for vacationers on the “weight loss” program to follow the recommendations of a spa nutritionist. By the way, most sanatoriums offer fractional dietary meals (in combination with a “normal” table, of course).

Entertainment and attractions

Rogaška Slatina is mainly a medical resort, so there is little evening entertainment here. But there is mini-golf, sports grounds, five outdoor and four indoor tennis courts, a squash hall, and bicycle rental. At 7 km from the resort there is a riding center, golf courses, a disco, a bar, a casino. Classical music evenings are held once a week.

Fans of excursions and sightseeing have something to diversify their stay at the resort. Rogaška Slatina is home to the Rogaška glassworks, which is known throughout the world for its unique crystal products. The ancient Minorite monastery in Olimye, founded in 1015 by monks on the slope of a large hill, will captivate tourists with its architecture, a quiet little courtyard and ancient paintings. Lovers of pathos and luxury can go on an excursion to Kaifezhev Grad, Maribor, where the oldest grapevine in the world is located, listed in the Guinness Book of Records, and Ptuj. And if you have strength left, it is worth visiting the monastery of the Carthusian Order of Pleterrier.

Weather in Rogaška Slatina

The climate of the resort is ideal for those who cannot stand extreme heat or severe frosts – the mild foothill climate provides stable weather all year round. Due to the Mediterranean and continental climate, the resort does not experience sudden temperature changes, and the number of sunny days prevails over cloudy ones.

Rogaška Slatina, Slovenia

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Suzhou, China https://www.extrareference.com/suzhou-china.html Fri, 23 Dec 2022 12:31:16 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1460 Suzhou is sometimes referred to as the “Venice of the East”. It is one of the first cities in the world built on water. Instead of streets, there are canals across which ancient stone bridges are thrown, and the entire historical center with its ancient buildings and well-kept gardens was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in the late 90s. In addition to beautiful river scenery, Suzhou still has handicraft traditions. Here you can buy handmade embroidery on silk, hand-crafted pearls and various souvenirs made of stone and bone.

Note: according to allcitypopulation, the population of China is 1.412 billion (2021).

History

The city was founded in 514 BC and immediately acquired the status of a developed center of trade, it was here that the finest Chinese silk was made, which was exported to almost all countries of the world. Even today, the city is full of merchants, the streets are bustling, but at the same time, life flows slowly and measuredly. All buildings here can be called monumental, guests enter the city through the huge Panmen gate, which is more than a dozen centuries old, they are located both on land and on water. And the old paired pagodas are visible far beyond the city limits.

The canal, which runs through the entire city with a length of almost two thousand kilometers, was built from the 7th century, and more than five million people worked on its construction. This is an important water transport artery and to this day, almost two thousand people are establishing the work of its unique system of locks.

In general, the city is conditionally divided into two parts: the historical center, with its untouched pristine nature, and the industrial and commercial center, the importance of which on the scale of the entire world economy can hardly be overestimated. They are the personification of history, rich traditions, and the modern rhythm of life.

How to get to Suzhou

The city does not have its own airport, and the nearest one is in Shanghai – the journey from it will take a little less than an hour by train. It has three stations where trains arrive from Beijing, Shanghai and Nanjing. There are also three bus stations – here, in addition to Shanghai and Nanjing, you can also come from Hangzhou.

In addition, if you want to enjoy the local views longer, you can also take a ferry from Shanghai to Suzhou.

Cuisine and Restaurants in Suzhou

The food here is varied. All dishes are slightly sweet, with an abundance of various sauces that harmoniously complement the main taste. There are plenty of good restaurants, the most popular of which is Sunhalow, where you will be offered roasted duck or pork with cherry sauce.

But still, it is much more interesting to get acquainted with the traditional local cuisine at the city market, which is a whole tourist quarter with a huge number of shops, souvenir shops, and ethnic restaurants. Here you can try the notorious hairy crab with sweet soy sauce.

And Suzhou cuisine is especially famous for its confectionery products, which are prepared here on the basis of unusual rice flour. The signature dish of confectioners is Moon Pie. You can wash it down with a traditional tea variety for this area with the poetic name “spring snail tea”.

Attractions and attractions in Suzhou

First of all, Suzhou is famous for its parks. They are rightfully considered the most luxurious and beautiful in the whole country, and their history dates back to the 4th century. More than two hundred living compositions of various trees and flowers have turned this city into a real “paradise on earth.”

The oldest existing urban park is considered to be the Blue Waves Park. It is surrounded by mountains that surrounded it with a wall. Bamboo groves are spread here, there is a rock garden and alpine slides.

But the largest one is the Garden of a modest official, a large territory of which is occupied by man-made lakes, on which pavilions are located, interconnected by numerous bridges. Mandarin ducks revered in China, which are an ancient symbol of devoted love, settled on these lakes, even one of the pavilions is named after them.

There is also the garden of the Lion’s Cave, this is also a kind of rock garden on the shore of a small lake, the heap of which has a clear resemblance to the figures of lions. And in the northeast of the park is Mount Tigris. According to legend, an imperial tomb was built on this mountain, the peace of which was guarded by a rare white tiger for several days. Now on this place rises an amazingly beautiful pagoda, the foundation of which is a little lopsided, which is why it is also called the Leaning Pagoda, by analogy with the Leaning Tower of Pisa. At the foot of this mountain is the “Stone of 1000 people”, near which, according to legend, a thousand men were killed, and now, when it rains, blood comes out on the stone.

Hanshan is considered one of the most ancient and beautiful temples in Suzhou. It is famous for its ancient bell tower, sometimes the wind carries faint sounds of bells, but on big holidays their unusual melody is heard on all nearby streets.

In general, despite the numerous parks, oases of peace and tranquility, life in the city is quite lively. The narrow streets are densely populated with old shops selling colorful goods. Here you can buy real works of Chinese folk art.

It is in Suzhou that the famous Chinese fans are made, painstaking manual work, striking in its filigree and craftsmanship. And you should definitely visit the Silk Museum, which contains the entire centuries-old history of the development of the silk industry.

Here you can buy the famous Chinese silk, as well as products with unique Suzhou embroidery. It is in Suzhou that you should buy real Chinese green tea.

Fans of outdoor activities can look into the local Disney Park, which is located right on Mount Shizishan.

Suzhou, China

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State Route 121 in Texas https://www.extrareference.com/state-route-121-in-texas.html Fri, 16 Dec 2022 13:50:03 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1458  

SH 121
Get started Fort Worth
End Bonham
Length 86 mi
Length 138 km
Route
  • → Austin / Oklahoma City
  • Sylvania Avenue
  • Riverside Drive
  • Beach Street
  • Haltom Road
  • Carson Street
  • Handley Ederville Road
  • → Arlington
  • Hurst Boulevard
  • Pipeline Road
  • → Fort Worth
  • Bedford – Euless Road
  • Precinct Line Road
  • Norwood Drive
  • Bedford Road
  • Central Drive
  • → Dallas
  • Murphy Drive
  • Harwood Road
  • Mid Cities Boulevard
  • Glade Road
  • Hall Johnson Road
  • → Arlington
  • Mustang Drive
  • → Grapevine
  • Texan Trail
  • → Irving
  • → Dallas
  • FM 2499
  • Sandy Lake Road
  • Freeport Parkway
  • Old SH 121
  • Denton Tap Road
  • MacArthur Boulevard
  • → Dallas / Oklahoma City
  • Huffines Boulevard
  • Hebron Parkway
  • Carrollton Parkway
  • Parker Road
  • Old SH 121
  • Standridge Drive
  • Josey Lane
  • Plano Parkway
  • Spring Creek Parkway
  • Legacy Drive
  • Dallas North Tollway
  • Parkwood Boulevard
  • Preston Road
  • Ohio Drive
  • Hillcrest Road
  • Coit Road
  • Independence Parkway
  • Custer Road
  • Alma Drive
  • Stacy Road
  • Lake Forest Drive
  • → Dallas / McKinney
  • Melissa
  • Trenton
  • Bonham

According to Ablogtophone, State Route 121, commonly known as State Highway 121 or SH 121 is a state route in the US state of Texas. The road runs diagonally from Fort Worth through the northern suburbs of Dallas to Bonham in the northern part of the state, not far from the Oklahoma border. Only the section between Fort Worth and McKinney is currently a highway, and a significant portion of the route is a toll road, the Sam Rayburn Tollway (SRT). The route is 138 kilometers long.

Travel directions

Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

SH 121 in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

The highway begins at downtown Fort Worth, and exits from Interstate 35W, running 2×3 lanes from here. It passes through the eastern neighborhoods of Fort Worth, and the suburbs of Haltom City and North Richland Hills. SH 121 then merges with Interstate 820, Fort Worth’s beltway. This double-numbering lasts only a short time, because on the northeast side of Fort Worth, near Hurst, I-820 exits west, while SH 121 runs east as the Airport Freeway. There are also 2×3 lanes here, passing through the suburbs of Hurst, Bedford and Euless. In Bedford, SH 121 turns northeast, while SH 183 continues east, to Irving and Dallas. At the northwest end of the international airport, SH 360 merges, a north-south link through Arlington and Grand Prairie, both major suburbs.

On the north side of the airport, the road is double numbered with SH 114. This lasts for a short time, however, and at the International Parkway interchange, SH 121 turns north, while SH 114 continues southeast, to Irving and Dallas. Almost immediately after, Interstate 635, the Dallas ring road, ends here. SH 121 then bypasses Lewisville, while SH 121’s business route passes through Lewisville.

In Lewisville, one crosses Interstate 35E, which runs from Dallas to Oklahoma City. From here there are 2×3 lanes available. You then pass by The Colony, an area that is still in full development. Plano crosses the Dallas North Tollway, a toll road that runs from Frisco to downtown Dallas. One passes through the northern districts of Plano, a suburb of 250,000 inhabitants. To the north is Frisco, a very fast-growing city, whose population has tripled since 2000 to 95,000 inhabitants. At the northernmost suburb of McKinney, SH 121 merges with US 75, the highway from Dallas to Sherman. This does not last long, however, and at Melissa SH 121 rejoins US 75.

Northern Texas

One has then left the agglomeration, and the area is then the domain of the many ranches. It occasionally crosses another state highway, and at the hamlet of Trenton one crosses US 69, which runs from Beaumont to Sherman. The landscape is slightly sloping, with quite a lot of meadows, and occasionally smaller forests. Major intersections are grade separated. In the town of Bonham, the road ends at US 82, which runs from Sherman to Paris, both regions of northern Texas.

SH 121 Business

The 8-mile Business Route of SH 121 runs through Lewisville. This is a major urban arterial with 2×2 to 2×3 lanes and has a grade-separated connection to FM 3040 and Denton Tap Road. The road begins and ends on the main route of SH 121, and also connects to Interstate 35E. The road is the original route of SH 121 before the highway was rerouted outside Lewisville. SH 121 Business was established in 1999. 25,000 to 40,000 vehicles use SH 121 Business every day.

Road number

The section from Lewisville to McKinney is called the Sam Rayburn Tollway. The SH 121 is actually only the frontage road here, the main carriageway is unnumbered.

History

SH 121 was added to the planned network of state highways in Texas in 1928, connecting Fort Worth to McKinney. At the time, the road ran almost entirely through countryside. At the time, people left the built-up area of ​​Fort Worth after only a few kilometers. Plans were approved in 1943 to extend SH 121 northeast to Bonham, but much of the road still had to be rebuilt here, which was not completed until about 1954. Since 1965, SH 121 has been running on the then recently opened freeway in Fort Worth.

Fort Worth

SH 121 originates in the diagonal connection from Fort Worth to McKinney. The Tarrant County section was completed in 1930 as a two-lane road. With the growth of the urban region, the need for freeways increased, and in 1955 a diagonal connection first appeared on plan maps. In 1959, plans were unfolded for the Fort Worth section, between Downtown and I-820. This section opened to traffic between 1964 and 1969, with the last section opening on October 29, 1969. This relieved Belknap Street.

It was decided in the 1950s that the section further to Grapevine would not be constructed parallel to the original SH 121, but further south to open up the suburbs of Euless and Bedford, and join a section with SH 183. In 1962 this section was granted planned freeway status. Construction on the highway began in the late 1960s between Hurst and Bedford, opening in two phases in 1970 and 1971. This connected Fort Worth to the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, but only through the southern route. The northern route to Grapevine was not built until later, opening in 1988 between SH 183 in Bedford and SH 114 in Grapevine. The old route of SH 121 was subsequently renumbered as SH 26.

Downtown Loop

Unlike Dallas, Fort Worth does not have a ring road around downtown. It was originally planned. Planning for the ring road began in 1956 as part of the “Gruen Plan,” a massive reconstruction of downtown Fort Worth by architect Victor Gruen (1903-1980). The plan included a small ring road around the center giving access to parking garages. The center of Fort Worth would then become one large pedestrian zone where almost the entire center would be rebuilt. In the plan, SH 121 would run along the north and west sides of Downtown Fort Worth, crossing Belknap Street and Henderson Street. At the time, there were also plans for a ring road on the east side, still west of I-35W. This plan was abandoned as early as 1958. The plans were changed in 1964, 1967 and 1985, whereby the planned Downtown Loop would move further and further from the actual center. The plan was abandoned by the City of Fort Worth in 1998 and disappeared from the regional transportation plans in 2000.

Dallas (Sam Rayburn Tollway)

North of Dallas, SH 121 isn’t as old as other highways because this area didn’t develop until after the 1980s. In the mid-1980s, the northern suburbs reached SH 121 and in 1985 it was proposed to upgrade SH 121 between DFW Airport and US 75 to a freeway. In the 1990s the plan became more concrete, but financing was a problem. The construction of the highway became controversial, not among local residents, but between various branches of government. TxDOTwanted to grant a foreign concession, in order to make as much profit as possible in the short term. However, the region wanted to maintain control over the toll road and the amount of the toll. In the end, the region won. The toll road was opened primarily between 2006 and 2009, with the highway around Lewisville being constructed on a deviated route, creating two SH 121 routes in this area.

A short stretch of SH 121 between DFW Airport and I-635 is older, opening in 1981, along with an extension of I-635 westward. Two other short stretches of highway also opened in the 1990s, and are currently toll-free, so SH 121 is not a through toll road from DFW Airport to US 75 in McKinney. In November 2011, the large stack interchange with the Dallas North Tollway opened to traffic.

The NTTA has widened the Sam Rayburn Tollway to 2×4 lanes for 42 kilometers between the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and US 75 in McKinney. The widening started on January 2, 2019 and was completed on December 3, 2021.

DFW Connector

The ‘DFW Connector’ in Grapevine.

The DFW Connector was a project to widen SH 114/121 on the north side of DFW International Airport. The highway has been widened from 2×4 lanes to a maximum of 18 lanes, including 2×3 express lanes. The general purpose lanes were ready in August 2013, and the toll lanes in the middle of the highway opened to traffic on 1 April 2014.

In January 2016, $1.3 billion was made available to address the short-term congestion in Texas. Part of this was $61 million for the construction of parallel carriageways along SH 121 between SH 114 and SH 360 at Grapevine. This project was originally planned as part of the DFW Connector, but was not implemented at the time due to lack of funds. The work was then carried out between 2016 and 2018. On May 1, 2018, the official “ribbon-cutting ceremony” followed.

Between 2018 and 2021, SH 121 and its interchanges with I-635, Bass Pro Drive, and FM 2499 were reconstructed for $370 million. The reconstruction of the interchange with I-635 was originally planned as part of the DFW Connector project, but no funding was available for this part at the time. Work started on August 13, 2018 and was completed on August 2, 2021.

Chisholm Trail Parkway

The Chisholm Trail Parkway was constructed from Fort Worth to Cleburne between 2011 and 2014. This is a 44 kilometer long toll road, which was opened to traffic on 11 May 2014. It was planned to number this toll road as SH 121, but in the end this section was left unnumbered.

North Tarrant Express

Between late 2010 and October 2014, 2×2 express lanes were added to I-820 and SH 121 in northeast Fort Worth, between I-35W and SH 183 at Euless. The corridor now has 4+2+2+4 lanes and frontage roads, with the inner lanes being express lanes for which tolls have to be paid. The project was the second major express lane project in the Dallas-Fort Worth area to open. In construction, I-820 and SH 121 were completely reconstructed, with many new flyovers at huge interchanges with other highways. The project is called the North Tarrant Express. The toll lanes opened on October 4, 2014. After opening, traffic jams decreased by 80 percent while traffic increased by 23 percent.

Opening history

Fort Worth
From Unpleasant Length Date
I-35W Riverside Drive 2.0 km 00-00-1964
I-280 (south) I-820 (north) 2.9 km 19-07-1965
Carson Street I-820 (south) 4.5 km 00-00-1966
Riverside Drive Beach Street 1.5 km 00-00-1968
Beach Street Carson Street 3.5 km 29-10-1969
I-820 (north) Bedford Road 5.5 km 00-00-1970
Bedford Road SH 183 2.6 km 00-00-1971
SH 183 SH 114 10.7 km 00-00-1988
Dallas
From Unpleasant Length Date
SH 114 I-635 2.1 km 00-00-1981
I-635 Grapevine Mills Parkway 1.6 km 00-01-1996
I-35E Hebron Parkway 3.5 km 00-00-1999
Hebron Parkway old SH 121 east end 3.5 km 00-07-2006
old SH 121 west end I-35E 5.0 km 29-08-2006
old SH 121 east end Hillcrest Road 13.8 km 31-08-2008
Grapevine Mills Parkway old SH 121 west end 4.2 km 00-00-2009
Hillcrest Road US 75 14.6 km 29-09-2009

Future

There are plans to widen the section of SH 121 in Euless to 2×4 lanes, with the left hard shoulder becoming a dynamic rush- hour lane, on a 3 mile stretch from SH 183 to Glade Road.

Toll

SH 121 is a toll road between Coppell and McKinney, this section is called the Sam Rayburn Tollway. The toll road is operated by the North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA) and is fully electronic. The toll rates for license plate toll users ( ZipCash ) are 50% higher than users with a TollTag.

There are also toll lanes along the north side of DFW Airport, the so-called ‘DFW Connector’, and toll lanes between Euless and Fort Worth, the so-called ‘North Tarrant Express’. The toll lanes are also called ‘texpress lanes’.

Traffic intensities

The data below concerns intensities after the relevant exit.

Exit Location 2007 2012 2016
Fort Worth 106,000 107,000 107,000
Fort Worth 169,000 167,000 158,000
Hurst 184,000 180,000 134,000
Bedford 95,000 100,000 105,000
grapevine 161,000 163,000 168,000
grapevine 189,000 186,000 195,000
couplell 112,000 118,000 119,000
Lewisville 62,000 114,000 162,000
Plano Dallas North Tollway 50,000 102,000 100,000
Melissa 20,000 19,000 25,000
Trenton 6.500 5,300 8,000
Bonham 6.900 6.300 3,700

Lane Configuration

This only concerns the highway section in Dallas-Fort Worth.

From Unpleasant Lanes Comments
I-35W I-820 2×3 Fort Worth
I-820 I-820 2×4 double numbering with I-820
I-820 SH 183 4+2+2+4 Bedford
SH 183 SH 360 2×2 Euless
SH 360 SH 114 2×3
SH 114 I-635 2×4 couplell
I-635 Old SH 121 2×2
Old SH 121 I-35E 2×3
I-35E US 75 2×4

State Route 121 in Texas

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How to Get to Porto, Portugal https://www.extrareference.com/how-to-get-to-porto-portugal.html Fri, 09 Dec 2022 06:21:28 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1456 By plane

Only connecting flights are organized from Moscow to Porto. Aeroflot, Turkish Airlines, Swiss Airlines, Brussels Airlines, British Airways, KLM offer different prices. You can choose a flight with a transfer in Istanbul, Munich, Cologne, Prague, Brussels, Madrid, Geneva, Zurich and other cities. The cheapest tickets are from Turkish Airlines with a transfer in Istanbul. The fastest flights are with Lufthansa: 6 hours 55 minutes with a change in Frankfurt am Main, but they are much more expensive. See JIBIN123 for Portugal customs regulations and visa requirements.

You can buy direct tickets from Moscow to Lisbon, they are offered by Ural Airlines (the flight lasts 5 hours 45 minutes), and from there you can get to Porto by bus or train.

You can get from the airport to the city center by metro, bus or taxi. The metro station is located right in the airport building, a ticket for the 4th zone (Z4) is purchased from a special machine. You can also get to the center by buses No. 601, 602 or 604. Bus and metro tickets cost the same: 1.95 EUR. A taxi ride will cost 20-25 EUR.

By train

Long distance trains arrive at Campanha Station, located 2 km from the center of Porto. Regional trains and electric trains are received by Sao Bento Station. There are no direct trains from Russia to Porto. By rail, it is most convenient to get from Lisbon: tickets – from 25 EUR, trip duration – from 3 hours 25 minutes, traffic interval – 30-50 minutes. Train timetables can be found on the Portuguese Railways website (in English).

By bus

There are no direct buses from Moscow to Porto either. Regular flights are organized from Lisbon, tickets cost from 20 EUR, travel time is 3.5 hours, the schedule is on the website of the carrier Renex (in Portuguese).

  • How to get from Porto Airport to Figueira da Foz
  • How to get from Lisbon airport to Porto
  • How to get from Lisbon to Porto
  • How to get from Porto to Braganca

Porto Hotels

Porto has a wide range of hotels of various classes. The most expensive hotels are located in the historical part of the city, close to the main attractions. But you can settle in almost any area, because the developed transport infrastructure allows you to easily move between key tourist points.

The cheapest accommodation option is hostels; prices are very affordable: from 10 EUR per day. Basically, guests are offered beds in 8- and 10-bed rooms with shared facilities, but there are also more comfortable double rooms.

The cost of living in two-star hotels is from 20 EUR per day. It offers bars, laundries and entertainment for an additional fee, Wi-Fi is almost always free. In 3 * hotels, both the level of service and prices are much higher: from 35 EUR per room.

For those who are not used to saving on comfort, we recommend 4 * hotels (from 55 EUR per day). Finally, fans of luxury holidays are best to stay in luxurious five-star hotels, where rooms cost from 95 EUR per night.

Transport

Porto has metro lines, buses, trams and taxis.

Underground

The metro is one of the best ways to get around the city. The central interchange station, Trindade, is a couple of blocks from Avenida dos Allados. 3 metro lines – A (blue, goes to the Matosinhos area), B (red, from Vila do Conde to Povoa de Varzim) and C (green, to Maia) – start from Estadio do Dragao, follow through Campanha station and city center, and then scatter to the western and eastern outskirts of Porto. Line D (yellow) connects north to south: from Hospital SaoJoao to Joao de Deus in Vila Nova de Gaia, crossing the Ponte de Don Luis bridge. And finally, line E (purple) goes from the airport and then merges with line B. Metro hours: from 6:00 to 1:00, a single ticket costs 1.95 EUR.

Buses and trams

Buses and trams are also convenient, but their routes are a bit more confusing. The central stops are Praca da Liberdade, south of Avenida dos Allados, Praca Almeida Garrett (in front of Sao Bento station) and Cordoaria. There are special night buses that run about once an hour from Aliados Street between 1:00 and 5:30. Ticket price – 1.95 EUR, Andante Tour ticket for a day costs 7 EUR, for 3 days – 15 EUR.

Trams in Porto are one of the main attractions of the city. Riding on any of the three lines passing through the very center, you can enjoy absolutely fantastic views. The Massarelos stop near the Crystal Palace is the main central hub. From here follows line 1 along the river to the monument to Infante Enrique (Ribeira region). Line 1E (often referred to as “1”) runs down the river to Foz Douro. Line 18 goes up to Carmo church and Jardim da Cordoaria gardens. Departure every half an hour, opening hours: from 9:00 to 19:00. Ticket price – 2.50 EUR.

Taxi

Taxis are another popular mode of transport, especially among tourists. You can find a parking lot in the city center or call a car by phone. Cost: 5-7 EUR for a short trip within the center, plus 20% at night.

Bicycles

Renting a bike is a great solution for those who do not want to depend on public transport and plan to see as many interesting places in Porto as possible. But this is rather an option for those who are strong in spirit and body: there are many narrow, winding streets in the city center, the terrain here is hilly, so pedaling is quite difficult. It’s much easier to ride along the Douro riverfront or reach outlying attractions. Prices – from 6 EUR for 2 hours or from 15 EUR per day, depending on the chosen bike model.

Rent a Car

To drive up and down the streets of Porto and admire the scenery of its surroundings, it is best to rent a car. At the airport and various points in the city there are offices of local and international rental offices: Avis, Europcar, Budget, Sixt, Hertz and others. Renting a compact car will cost 40 EUR, a middle-class car – 70 EUR, a station wagon – 45 EUR, a premium model – 125 EUR per day. The price of gasoline in Portugal is about 1.70 EUR per 1 liter.

Do not take a large car: in the narrow, winding streets of Porto, there is a high risk of scratching the wing.

As in any large city, there are traffic jams in Porto, but, of course, they cannot be compared with Moscow ones. There are many free parking lots on the streets, but before you leave your iron horse there, you need to make sure that there are no residente stickers on neighboring cars. They mean that only residents of the surrounding houses can park here. The cost of parking in paid parking lots is from 1 EUR per hour, payment is made using parking meters.

Porto, Portugal

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Hawaii: The Aloha State https://www.extrareference.com/hawaii-the-aloha-state.html Thu, 01 Dec 2022 15:11:58 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1450 A holiday in Hawaii, a honeymoon, discover volcanoes, conquer ‘the waves’ while surfing or enjoy paradise waterfalls. On the islands that make up Hawaii, you do it all under the tropical sun. Let your hips rock and enjoy your Hawaii holiday.

According to growtheology, Hawaii is the fiftieth state of the United States and consists of 137 volcanic islands that make up the Hawaii archipelago. Most islands are small and uninhabited. The archipelago is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean on a seabed of 4,000 meters deep. The largest and most important Hawaiian Islands are inhabited and popular with many Americans and other tourists and are excellent for your Hawaii vacation. And that is easy to understand if we take a closer look at some of these islands!

Touristy and pleasantly busy during vacation Hawaii

Whichever island of Hawaii you visit, the welcome is warm and traditional almost everywhere. In Hawaii you are often welcomed with the famous flower garland and local hospitality. A wonderful start to your Hawaii holiday!

Going out and shopping, that’s what you do on the island of Oahu . This is the most touristic island of the archipelago Oahu is best known for the capital Honolulu , also the capital of Hawaii, and the famous boulevard Waikiki Beach . But also naval base Pearl Harbor is located on this island. Hawaii has almost one and a half million inhabitants, spread over all islands. One million of these live on Oahu.

Honeymoon Hawaii

A Hawaii vacation is always referred to as the ideal romantic honeymoon destination.
This makes sense because the beautiful beaches, romantic accommodations and spectacular excursion options make Hawaii a popular honeymoon destination! A honeymoon to Hawaii, that’s what people dream about!
Hawaii is certainly one of the most beautiful places on earth to celebrate your honeymoon. Check out our luxury Hawaii honeymoons

Luxury Vacation Hawaii

Hawaii is a wonderful destination to relax. You will find very beautiful and luxurious hotels on all the islands of Hawaii. Many hotels are built on beautiful locations and you can walk straight onto the beach from your room! For a luxurious beach vacation you should definitely be in Hawaii. During a luxury vacation in Hawaii you can relax on the most beautiful beaches, enjoy a refreshing drink on a lounger on the beach or by the swimming pool in the hotel and in the evening have a bite to eat in the city or on the boulevard. A luxury Hawaii vacation can be combined well with an adventurous activity or honeymoon. A holiday in Hawaii offers all possibilities.

Island hopping Hawaii

Many tourists go on vacation in Hawaii and stay only on the island of Oahu, especially in Honolulu and the Waikiki Beach area.
It is much more fun to combine 3 or 4 islands and we call this island hopping. We rent a car on every island and then you can discover each island yourself! Check out our Island hopping Hawaii tour or Fly-drive Hawaii tour.

Surfing the waves in Hawaii

You can easily explore the island by car: for example, drive to Diamond Head, an old volcanic crater near the famous Waikiki Beach. Snorkeling enthusiasts will be amazed in the waters of world-famous Hanauma Bay.

Due to its high waves, the northwest coast of the island is home to many surfers, but kite and windsurfers can also enjoy themselves here. So whether you want to relax on the beach, see beautiful underwater landscapes or go for cool surfing action, it’s all possible during your Hawaii holiday.

Islands of Hawaii

As the name suggests, Big Island is the largest island in Hawaii. Officially the island is called Hawaii, but to avoid confusion with the name of the state, it was baptized Big Island. With five separate shield volcanoes, two of which are active and can be visited in the Volcanoes National Park, ten different climate zones, beautiful snorkeling areas and many waterfalls and rainforests on the humid east side of the island, we can rightfully call the Big Island a unique paradise that you will certainly must visit on your Hawaii vacation!

The Mauna Kea Observatory is home to the largest telescopes in the world. Mauna Kea is not only the highest point in Hawaii, but with a height of 10,203 meters it is also the highest mountain in the world. Because the ocean floor at this location is more than 6,000 meters deep, this mountain ‘only’ rises 4,207 meters above sea level.

Mau Hawaii

Maui Hawaii is one of the most beautiful in Hawaii’s most impressive islands. The island with beautiful nature, great routes to ride and breathtakingly beautiful and scenic beaches.

But you can also enjoy shopping and going out in villages such as Kihei, Kapalua and Lahaina. All the world’s top surfers visit Maui’s north shore in search of the highest and ultimate waves in the world.

The Garden Isle island

The northernmost and greenest island of the Hawaii archipelago is the island of Kauai . It is not surprising that this island is nicknamed ‘the Garden Isle’. Kauai is also the oldest inhabited island in the archipelago. Waimea Canyon, also known as the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’, is an absolute highlight that you can visit on this island with its more than 900 meters deep canyon. Lovers of a brisk walk will certainly get their money’s worth during their Hawaii holiday in the Napali Coast State Park with its untouched nature.

Molokai

A glimpse into the traditional (rural) life of Hawaii can be found on Molokai. Just like the island of Lanai, Molokai is not really touristy, so if you are looking for peace and quiet and the authentic and traditional Hawaii, this island offers you all the options. Molokai is characterized by many high cliffs and various beautiful parks and pearly white sandy beaches. For example, on this island you will find Papohaku Beach, an almost 5 kilometer long sandy beach, making it one of the longest beaches in Hawaii.

Volcano Hawaii

Hawaii consists of volcanic islands, so you cannot leave before you have visited a number of volcanoes. An absolute must to visit during your vacation in Hawaii is the dormant volcano Haleakala. At the top of this volcano you can enjoy an amazing sunrise or sunset with breathtaking views of Maui and the neighboring islands of Hawaii and Oahu.

Descend the volcano by mountain bike on a challenging winding road to Hana, which leads past numerous waterfalls, including the absolute highlight: the ‘seven sacred pools’. Swimming under natural waterfalls has never been so impressive!

A vacation in Hawaii is a vacation in paradise. Whichever island or islands you choose, the combination of overwhelming nature, lavish tranquility, pearly white beaches and unforgettable impressions will give you the Hawaii tour of a lifetime!

The Aloha State

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What to Do in Yaroslavl, Russia https://www.extrareference.com/what-to-do-in-yaroslavl-russia.html Fri, 25 Nov 2022 08:36:33 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1448 Journey to Yaroslavl is not limited to the contemplation of ancient cathedrals and visiting museums – there are activities for everyone who likes and for those who cannot imagine rest without movement. In summer, Yaroslavl residents and guests of the city swim and sunbathe on sandy beaches – Central, Norsk, Tveritsy and Prusovskie quarries. You can get your dose of adrenaline in the modern skate park, which opened in the park of the 1000th anniversary of Yaroslavl.

In the very center of the city, a stone’s throw from the Spaso-Preobrazhensky Monastery, there is the Admiral Yacht Club, the most popular SUP-spot in Yaroslavl. Here they conduct training, rafting and excursions on SUP boards: for example, along the route “Heart of Yaroslavl” along Kotorosl and the Volga. The most beautiful views of the city open from the water, and walks are accompanied by interesting stories about its past. Sapas are rented in a park on Damansky Island.

You can have fun with a group of friends in quest rooms. There are dozens of such establishments in Yaroslavl, the quests “Addams Family”, Motel, “Exile”, “It 2”, “Poltergeist” and “In the Dark” are considered the best.

For winter entertainment, you should go to the Shaksha park in the village of Seslavino or the Izgib ski resort in the village of Dubki. Here they offer skiing, snowboarding, tubing and ice skating, take a steam bath in a Russian bath.

You can join folk crafts at various master classes. In the craft space “ArtEl” they will learn how to paint tiles and pottery, in the Museum of the History of Gingerbread – culinary wisdom, in the “Toy Workshop” – making Christmas tree decorations. Art and pottery workshops operate at the Kudesy School of Art, Art Smirnoff, Textura, Art Premium and NeMalevich’s Creativity Territories.

Yaroslavl for children

Holidays with a child in Yaroslavl, fortunately, do not come down to visiting churches and monasteries and remembering the dates of a thousand-year and rather confusing Yaroslavl history.

For the most inquisitive, we advise you to visit the Health Museum, where a little researcher will be able to find out what his body looks like from the inside and how to properly take care of it. Toy lovers should visit the My Favorite Bear Museum, which, as the name suggests, is dedicated to the most popular toy in the world. Here you can see a bear that is over 100 years old. Such a trip will be useful for parents, because they will again be able to plunge into childhood.

In the interactive museum of the Golden Ring show-layout, you can see all the cities of the famous route in miniature. You can even imagine yourself as Gulliver, who, by pressing buttons, makes people, cars and attractions move.

For fans of non-standard programs – the Museum of New Chronology, which certainly will not leave anyone indifferent.

Yaroslavl Zoo invites guests not only to look at the fauna of our planet, but also to stroke or feed livestock in the petting zoo and ride through the forest in a cart drawn by geldings.

For fans of the sea – Dolphinarium. A special show developed jointly with the Volkovsky Theater will not leave anyone indifferent, and some even dry. Swimming with dolphins in a warm pool under the supervision of experienced instructors can become an interactive experience.

  • Things to do in Yaroslavl with children

Outskirts of Yaroslavl

A trip to Yaroslavl is often combined with a visit to other cities of the Golden Ring: in just an hour you can get to the ancient Rostov with its white stone walls and golden domes, in 2 hours you can get to the fabulous Pereslavl-Zalessky on Lake Pleshcheyevo. Even closer is the picturesque Volga town of Tutaev with the grandiose Resurrection Cathedral, merchant mansions and wooden houses decorated with carved architraves. Worthy of attention is Vyatskoye, which received the status of the most beautiful village in Russia.

You can combine immersion in the past with outdoor recreation in Rybinsk with its huge reservoir and in Uglich, founded on the banks of the Volga more than 1000 years ago. You should definitely stop by the cozy Myshkin, the smallest town in the Yaroslavl region, where about two dozen unusual museums operate.

Developments

Holidays in Yaroslavl are celebrated widely and on a grand scale. On the last Sunday of March, Bear Day falls: on this day, the growl of the hero of the occasion sounds over the city, and at the bear monument on the street. Pervomayskaya arrange a costume show with games and treats. Here you can make a cherished wish by rubbing a bronze bear on the paw.

In April, jazzmen from all over the world come to Yaroslavl and Tutaev: once every two years, the music festival “Jazz over the Volga” is held here. “Dobrofest” gathers fans of punk, rock and hip-hop, Yuri Bashmet International Music Festival – connoisseurs of the classics.

In the spring, the city hosts the youth festival “The Future of theatrical Russia”, in the fall – the international Volkov Festival with performances by leading theaters from different countries.

June is the time of the All-Russian Nekrasov holiday in the village of Karabikha: participants are waiting for a theatrical performance, exhibitions, creative competitions. In August, the city picnic “Feast on the Volga” is held on Strelka with culinary master classes, treats and concerts, in September – “KhrenFest” under the motto “Horseradish is a strategic product of Russia.”

The New Year and Christmas are celebrated with the Ice Sculpture Festival and a fair, the Governor’s House hosts a theatrical tour about the traditions of winter holidays in the 19th century, and a sightseeing tour “Yaroslavl – the Capital of the Golden Ring” starts from Volkov Square.

Yaroslavl Maslenitsa is the country’s main Maslenitsa: noisy festive festivities last 8 days, pancakes and pies are served on the squares, the streets are decorated with author’s Maslenitsa dolls. The holiday program includes a colorful carnival procession, festivals of street food and street art, carnival games and fun.

Yaroslavl, Russia

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San Jose, Costa Rica https://www.extrareference.com/san-jose-costa-rica.html Fri, 18 Nov 2022 15:33:45 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1446 According to Wholevehicles, San Jose – the capital of Costa Rica – is located on a plateau in the center of the country at an altitude of 1200 m, surrounded by mountains and valleys. Approximately half of the country’s population lives in this fabulous city, which is welcoming to foreigners, characterized by tolerance for a variety of tastes and habits, a variety of noisy trade, vibrant nature and expressive architecture.

How to get to San Jose

San Jose Airport is a 15-minute drive from the city center. A bus ride will cost you less than 1 USD, a taxi ride – about 20-25 USD.

By bus, you can come to San Jose from Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama. Tica buses are the choice of all local residents. King Quality has recently become another option. Compare prices: sometimes Tica is cheaper, sometimes not.

Transport

Taxis in San Jose are cheap, but you should be aware of some subtleties when traveling: you will be taken if the estimated cost of the trip is not less than 3 USD; it is almost useless to tell the taxi driver the address – it is better to tell which famous landmark in the city you should take.

The bus network in the city is reliable, convenient and very cheap, but keep in mind that even when you ask to stop at the object of interest to you, the driver, full of friendliness, can drop you off at any random place.

It is convenient to get around San Jose by bike, and you can buy a slightly used bike for just a penny.

San Jose Hotels

Most San Jose hotels are one to three star, so you’ll find plenty of budget accommodation options. Most of these hotels are located in close proximity to the airport.

From middle-class hotels, we can recommend: Adventure – a nice hotel with a sports bar, restaurant, jacuzzi and gym (double room for two 90 USD per night); B&B Tambo Mundo – an amazing hotel with views of the Irazu volcano and the national park, the hotel staff speaks many languages, and the room rates start from 40 USD per person; Hemingway Inn – a luxurious mansion in a quiet area of ​​the city, turned into a hotel, with rooms for 35-45 USD for two; or the Presidente Hotel, located in the very center of the city, room rates from 85 USD.

You can truly enjoy luxury (and for quite reasonable money) in luxury hotels. For example, in the Barcelo San Jose Palacio, which is located just a short drive between San Jose and Heredia. This is the ideal starting point for tourists arriving in the capital of Costa Rica, and offers plenty of opportunities to kick off your visit to this tropical paradise on a high note.

Romantics should stop at one of the classic colonial-style haciendas, which are located on coffee plantations around San José.

Costa Rica Marriott Hotel is a beautiful classic colonial-style hacienda located on a coffee plantation. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, great restaurants, two outdoor tropical pools, a spa and much more.

Doubletree Cariari By Hilton San Jose, located five minutes from the airport, offers rooms from 90 to 230 USD, luxurious architecture and a huge pool. The 13 rooms of the Finca Rosa Blanca Hotel, located in the Central Valley of Costa Rica, surrounded by exotic flora, among hundreds of fruit trees, offer stunning views of volcanoes, rainforests and coffee plantations (the cost of double rooms is 160-240 USD). The Grano de Oro, rebuilt from a tropical Victorian mansion, offers the comfort and coziness of a private home, with lush tropical vegetation, secluded atriums, Italian marble fountains.

Restaurants

Mercado’s old, bustling food market is full of small restaurants and cafes that are always popular with locals. Here you will be offered fresh fish, shellfish and crustaceans, sopa de pescado (fish soup) and exotics such as “inked squid”, Ceviche (small pieces of raw fish in lime juice), helado de sorbetera (a local type of ice cream) and much more. Buy delicious unripe mango strips with salt and lime from street vendors.

Bar Poas Pictures of patrons adorn the walls of this dimly lit but cozy establishment. In addition to enjoying the legendary Chili con Carne, you will get a lot of pleasant emotions from observing local colorful characters, and the owner of the restaurant is just a storehouse of information about San Jose and Costa Rica.

The owner of the Bar Poas restaurant is a treasure trove of information about San Jose and Costa Rica.

At the Grano de Oro’s restaurant, you can enjoy pancakes with bananas and macadamia nuts for breakfast. Seafood dishes are also excellent here. A little pricey, but very tasty. National dishes of all Latin America (and not only) can be tasted in restaurants: Machu Picchu – the best Peruvian restaurant, where you will taste delicacies such as Causa Rellena, Cebiche, washed down with the traditional Peruvian drink Pisco, and Manolo’s Churreria, where you have to order churros chicken tacos (here you can also watch how local bookmakers accept bets from regulars).

Tin Jo is the most popular Asian restaurant in the city with Japanese, Thai, Chinese and Indian cuisine. If you are a fan of vegetarian cuisine, you have a direct road to the Vishnu restaurant, where vegetarian and organic dishes are offered at very reasonable prices (there are three such restaurants in San Jose).

Shopping

A good gift shop, Boutique Annemarie, can be found in the lobby of the Don Carlos Hotel; also many small souvenir shops are located in the El Pueblo shopping center; if you like bargaining and you like first-hand souvenirs, visit Mercado Artesania, a market on Second Avenue: there are many shops with painted wooden masks and handmade ceramics.

Some real coffee must be brought from Costa Rica. Buy coffee beans from big stores where prices are lower and quality is guaranteed.

Attractions and attractions in San Jose

Many museums in San Jose deserve the closest attention, you will not see such collections of artifacts anywhere else: the Museo Oro Precolombino (“Golden Museum”) presents a huge collection of gold items from the pre-Columbian era (from 500 AD to 1500 AD). The museum is open from 10-00 to 16-30, entrance for foreigners is 11 USD.

Website: https://museosdelbancocentral.org

Museo del Jade (Jade Museum) – here you can get acquainted with the collection of jade jewelry of antiquity, as well as stone, bone, and ceramic products of the pre-Columbian era. The museum is open from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., admission 15 USD.

Website: http://www.museodeljadeins.com

Museo de los Niños (Children’s Museum) – touchingly located in the building of a former prison. Works every day from 10-00 to 16-00.

The Museo Nacional (National Museum), located in the old fort, includes a large butterfly garden and a rock garden. Open from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Tuesday to Sunday. Entrance 8 USD.

Website: http://www.museocostarica.go.cr

It is impossible to visit Costa Rica and not go to see the volcanoes.

Fans of exotic pleasures will probably like the Museum of Insects, located at the University. Here you will see a huge collection of exotic beetles and other tropical insects.

You can make many short trips around San Jose, the tour buses are highly visible, reliable and inexpensive. We recommend visiting the Butterfly Farm, coffee farm, rafting along tropical rivers.

It is impossible to visit Costa Rica and not go to see the volcanoes. Buses to Poas Volcano depart from Parque La Merced at 8:30 am daily. Buses to the Irazu volcano, located 50 km from the city, leave every day at 8 am from Second Avenue near the National Theater (round-trip will cost 10 USD).

An hour’s drive from San José, there are five La Paz waterfalls surrounded by tropical forests, and in the garden you can visit a hummingbird gallery, a serpentarium and a butterfly garden.

Weather in San Jose

The rainy season lasts from April to December, otherwise the climate of San Jose depends on the direction of the prevailing winds. Temperature from +18 to +26 °C.

San Jose, Costa Rica

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Things to Do in Dinant, Belgium https://www.extrareference.com/things-to-do-in-dinant-belgium.html Fri, 11 Nov 2022 06:40:05 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1444 In the southeast of Belgium in the province of Namur, not far from the French border, you will find the town of Dinant. The city is beautifully enclosed between the Maas and the surrounding hilly landscape. The area surrounding the city has been inhabited since prehistoric times, but the area around Dinant has only been permanently inhabited since the Romans. During the Middle Ages and the centuries after, the city has always played an important role in the defense of the Meuse. The citadel of Dinant is still vivid proof of this. The city has been known for its coppersmiths since the Middle Ages. In an attempt to take this wealth, Charles the Bold threw 800 coppersmiths two by two into the Meuse during a siege of the city.

Top 10 things to do in Dinant

#1. The citadel of Dinant
High above Dinant is the citadel of Dinant. According to Country Calculator, the citadel can be reached from the city via a 408-step staircase or by cable car. Once at the top you will find a tavern on the left with a large playground next to it and the citadel on the right. The current citadel was built by the Dutch in the 18th century on the remains of earlier castles that stood here. The top of this rock has been built on since the 11th century AD. These defenses had to ensure that the bridge over the Maas was guarded. A guided tour can be taken in the citadel, which takes about 50 minutes.

#2. The House of Sax
Dinant is the city of the Sax, the inventor of the saxophone Adolphe Sax was born here and spent the first years of life there. Dinant is proud of this and you will know that everywhere in the city you will come across richly colored saxophones. There is also a street and a square named after Adolphe sax, on this square you can find a huge saxophone. In the Reu de Adolphe Sax is the House of Sax. This interactive museum is open every day of the week and is free to visit. In the museum you can find out for yourself for which musical movements the saxophone has played an important role. A statue of Adolphe Sax sits on a bench in front of the museum.

#3. Bayard rock
If you approach the city from the south, you will come across Bayard rock on your way. This stately rock looks a lot like an oversized menhir. According to legends, this separation between the two rocks was created because Ros Beiaard jumped through it when he was on the run with the four Heems children from Charlemagne. The separation between the two rocks was actually made by the troops of the Louis XIV who wanted to simplify the access to Dinant.

#4. A boat trip on the Maas
If you want to visit the city in a nice relaxed way, you can do so on one of the many excursion boats that depart from Dinant. During these cruises you get to see a beautiful view of the city of Dinant and the surrounding villages. Many of these cruises also sail past the place where the Lesse flows into the Meuse. Especially the view from the Meuse on the rock Bayard is beautiful from the Meuse. The tickets for the cruises can be ordered on the banks of the Meuse.

#5. The Abbey of Leffe
The Abbey of Leffe is located just outside Dinant in the village of Leffe. This abbey was founded here in the 12th century by the Premonstratensians of Floreffe. Leffe beer has been brewed here from 1240, although the Premonstratensians only owned the brewery in name. The Abbey of Leffe has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the years. In the 18th century the monastery was destroyed and evacuated by the revolutionaries. It would take until the beginning of the 20th century for the abbey to be restored and regain its original function. Leffe Abbey beer is now brewed by the Ab InBev building chain.

#6. Dinantse koek
The Dinantse koek is perhaps just as famous as the city itself. The cake is made from flour and pure honey and then baked in the oven. The cake is very hard and very difficult to eat, but this does not make it any less tasty. In terms of taste, the cookie is most like a cross between chewy chewy and gingerbread. The cake is for sale in many different shapes at the various patisseries in Dinant.

#7. The Collegiate Church of Our Lady of Dinant The Collegiate Church of
Our Lady of Dinant was built in the 13th century on the remains of the first church in Dinant. The church with its pear-shaped bell tower is one of the most striking buildings in Dinant. The inside with its beautiful stained glass windows is just as beautiful and special as the outside of the building. During the First World War, the church was heavily damaged by German bombardments, but was restored to its original glory in the years after the war.
information about the Collegiate Church of Our Lady of Dinant.

#8. The cave “la Merveilleuse”
These caves may not be the largest caves in the Ardennes, but they are among the most beautiful caves in Belgium. The cave “la Merveilleuse” was discovered at the beginning of the 20th century when a railway was being built. The cave can be visited with a guide. A visit to this cave will take about 50 minutes. During the visit you descend to the heart of the cave and then come out again via a different route. Along the way you will be treated to beautiful stalactites, stalagmites and beautiful underground waterfalls.

#9. Flamiche
The Flamiche is a typical Dinant cheese tart that is made from low-fat cheese. In most cases the cheese boulette of Romedenne is used for this. The bottom of the pie consists of improved bread dough. This bottom is topped with the Romedenne cheese and beaten eggs, better and more flavoured. After this the cake goes in a warm oven for 20 minutes and enjoy. This cake is available at many catering establishments in Dinant.

#10. Maison du Leffe
The Maison Du Leffe has been housed in the hotel la Merveilleuse since 2012. In this museum dedicated to the Leffe abbey beer, the history of this beer and the associated abbey is told. The museum is located in a renovated Capuchin monastery. This creates a special atmosphere in the museum. After the museum visit, you can drink a Leffe in the hotel bar, which is located in the old courtyard of the monastery.

Dinant, Belgium

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Landmarks of Lanzarote, Spain https://www.extrareference.com/landmarks-of-lanzarote-spain.html Fri, 04 Nov 2022 05:15:47 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1442 According to A Country Blog, the island of Lanzarote is one of the Canary Islands; an archipelago located about 200 kilometers west of the Moroccan coast. Thanks to its mild climate, Lanzarote attracts many tourists throughout the year. They mainly stay in the large seaside resorts of Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise. In addition to sun and beach, the island also offers quite a few interesting sights. The unique volcanic landscape is a special attraction in itself. Volcanism manifests itself in different ways. The Fire Mountains (Montañas del Fuego) are perhaps one of the best places in Europe where you can see how volcanic activity has led to desolate rugged landscapes.

Most excursions you can make on Lanzarote are based on what we consider to be beautiful landscapes, special natural phenomena and the artist of the island César Manrique. Because the island is not too big and the roads are of excellent quality, you can easily visit several sights in one day. This is most efficient with a rental car. If you don’t like driving yourself, you can book an organized excursion.

If you do not have the time or desire to visit the entire top 10 sights of Lanzarote during your holiday on Lanzarote, we would recommend that you at least plan a visit to the Timanfaya National Park and also one of the César Manrique created places of interest. Then you have discovered at least two of the most important elements of Lanzarote. If we look purely at our own taste, a visit to the Lago Verde could be added to this. This green lagoon provides an almost surrealistic setting.

Top 10 things to do in Lanzarote

#1. Timanfaya National Park

The absolute highlight of Lanzarote is the Timanfaya National Park. This national park covers more than five thousand hectares in the western part of the island. It is situated around the volcano Timanfaya. The volcanic land formed here is the result of a day-long volcanic eruption in the year 1730. The volcanic origin of Lanzarote is visible here in the best possible way. The Fire Mountains (Montañas del Fuego) show through their colors that during a volcanic eruption different elements come out from our planet, such as flowing lava and ash rains.

The way to discover Timanfaya National Park is through the coaches that depart from the visitor center. You cannot drive through the Timanfaya National Park yourself, with the exception of the part from the entrance to the visitor center. The tour is included in the entrance fee.

#2. Fundacion de Cesar Manrique

The island of Lanzarote is inextricably linked to Arrecife-born artist César Manrique. This all-rounder is described as a painter, sculptor, architect and building consultant. You will find his work in various places on the island of Lanzarote. For example, many a roundabout has been decorated with works of art by this celebrity. In almost all of his work, Manrique has tried to integrate the nature of the island into his work. As a committed activist, he was aware that tourism was the future, but he also wanted to protect the island from the influx of tourists that the popular island attracted year after year.

The former home of the artist Manrique is open to the public. This house, built in a lava cave, shows how the residence and nature almost form a whole, with every room being designed in a fantastic way. Within the house you will find various works of art by Manrique.

#3. Lake Verde

Just south of the western village of El Golfo is a green colored lake: Lago Verde. If you arrive from the parking lot, you can follow a narrow footpath that will automatically lead you to this green lake. Because erosion is everywhere, it sometimes happens that the access road is closed. Lago Verde is separated from the sea by a black beach. Rock formations created by lava flow can be found around the green lake. This gives Lago Verde a somewhat surreal appearance. The water in this green lake always remains at the right level, as it is naturally supplied from below the ground.

The green color is caused by a large dose of salt and algae that live in the water. Lake Lago Verde is cordoned off with rope. So it is not the intention to dive into it. The beach and the sea are otherwise accessible. The sea can be quite rough on this side of the island. If you continue to follow the hiking trail, you will automatically reach a large cave. All this is a remnant of the remains of the volcano El Golfo.

#4. Cueva de los Verdes

The next attraction on Lanzarote is also a special natural phenomenon. The Cueva de los Verdesform a cave system that you can visit with a guide. They are not green caves. The name ‘Verdes’ is interpreted that way by some. However, that is the name of a family that owned the caves. During the viewing, the accompanying guide will show you something phenomenal. What that is, we will not explain further here. That would take away the surprise effect. You will also find stalagmites and stalactites in all shapes and sizes in the Cueva de los Verdes. Within the caves, a natural concert hall has been built with unprecedented acoustics.

#5. Jardin de Cactus

Botanical gardens, subtropical gardens and cactus gardens are sights that you will find at quite a few holiday destinations. However, the Cactus Garden in Lanzarote differs from many other similar attractions in two ways. First of all, the location itself is quite special, because the cactus garden is laid out in the shape of an amphitheatre. Secondly, Jardín de Cactus is also a creation of César Manrique, which has resulted in a sometimes very idiosyncratic way of presenting the plants and incorporating works of art within the garden. We think Jardín de Cactus is worth seeing enough to give it a place in our top 10 highlights for Lanzarote.

#6. Mirador del Rio

On the northern tip of Lanzarote, west of Órzola, you will find a beautiful viewpoint designed by César Manrique: Mirador del Rio. From this location you have a beautiful view of the island of La Graciosa from an altitude of about 475 meters. At least, if the weather conditions allow it. Because the location on the north side of Lanzarote ensures that clouds can arise due to rising air. It can be quite stubborn at times. The arid climate of Lanzarote ensures that you have a great view most of the time.

You have to pay an entrance fee to visit Mirador del Rio. In addition to the phenomenal view, you also have access to the spaces created by César Manrique. Within the landscaped cafeteria you can then enjoy a drink or a typical Canarian delicacy. The cafeteria is an attraction in itself. Do you want to look at La Graciosa for free? You can do that west of the viewpoint. Even better is the free viewpoint Mirador de Guinate, which is a few minutes’ drive from Mirador del Rio ( view location on Google Maps ).

#7. Playa del Papagayo

Sometimes people think that you only have dark volcanic beaches in the Canary Islands. That is not true. Most islands, including Lanzarote, have some beautiful beaches. In the case of Lanzarote, Playas del Papagayo can even be counted among the main attractions of the island. Sometimes you come across the names Playa Papagayo or Papagayo Beach, but those names are a bit misleading. After all, it concerns several beaches that are located on the southern tip of Lanzarote, instead of one beach.

The largest beaches here are Playa del Papagayo, Playa de la Cera, Playa del Pozo and Playa Mujeres. They are all beautiful white sandy beaches that lie on a fairly intense blue colored sea. The combination with the volcanic rocks make for a wonderful place for sunbathing and swimming. Best of all, this special place on Lanzarote is not marred by hotels, shopping centers or large-scale catering. The only facilities are formed by two restaurants located close to each other. There you can get cold drinks, eat something or go to the toilet.

To visit the area you have to pay a few euros toll at the entrance which is along the only access route. The money is used to maintain the area and keep it clean.

#8. Wine region La Geria

Thanks to the fertile volcanic soil and the rather warm climate on Lanzarote, La Geriaa successful wine region. Grapes are grown here in a very specific way: the grapes are grown in pits with a small wall around it. In this way the fruits are protected against the wind and on the other hand it ensures that sufficient moisture is absorbed from the soil. The vineyards themselves are already a special picture, the wines themselves are also very worthwhile. The reason why we do not find Lanzarote wines in Dutch shops is that too little is produced to be able to export. The local market needs all the wines. At a number of bodegas, such as Malvasia and El Grifo, you can taste wines and get a tour.

#9. Picturesque villages

In the interior of Lanzarote, a number of picturesque villages await you. The most beautiful village of Lanzarote is Teguise. Not to be confused with the coastal urbanization of Costa Teguise is the inland village of Teguise. The village is designed in atmospheric Andalusian style. On Sundays, the busy market is held here, where, in addition to regional products, you will unfortunately also increasingly find stalls with (counterfeit) bags, sunglasses and other junk.

A village that competes for the title of ‘ most beautiful village in Lanzarote ‘ is Yaiza. The combination of impeccably maintained white houses, which are completely in line with the architecture of Lanzarote, and the streets lined with beautiful palm trees create an idyllic atmosphere within the volcanic landscape of Lanzarote.

A third place that we would like to mention is Haría. The uniqueness of this village in the north of Lanzarote lies mainly in its location in the middle of more than a thousand palm trees. It’s not for nothing that this place has been given the fairytale name ‘Dal of the Thousand Palms’. If you want to discover Haría in peace, it is better to avoid Saturdays. The weekly market then provides an extra influx of locals and tourists.

#10. Camel ride

Lanzarote is the only place in Europe where camelids live in the wild. The Majorero dromedary living on this island is mainly used for so-called camel rides, although there are no camels because these animals only have one hump. It is actually a dromedary ride. You can do a camel ride in the Timanfaya National Park or outside the park, where you will travel through the beautiful landscape of Lanzarote in about half an hour.

Lanzarote, Spain

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US 50 in Maryland https://www.extrareference.com/us-50-in-maryland.html Sun, 30 Oct 2022 04:58:01 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1439  

US 50
Get started Washington
End Ocean City
Length 150 mi
Length 242 km
Route
West Virginia

Red house

West Virginia

District of Columbia

John Hanson Freeway

Columbia Park Road

Landover Road

Veterans Parkway

Garden City Drive

Martin Luther King Jr. highway

Laurel Bowie Road

Davidsonville Road

Annapolis

Solomons Island Road

Downtown Annapolis

Ritchie Highway

Ferguson Road

Persimon Point Road

Oceanic Road

Chesapeake Bay Bridge

Romancoke Road

Dominion Road

Kent Narrows

Grasonville

Easton

Cambridge

Salisbury Bypass

Ocean Gateway

Pittsville

Berlin

Ocean City

According to Iamaccepted, US 50 is a US Highway in the US state of Maryland. The road crosses Maryland in two places, a short section in the far west of the state, and a longer section from Washington, DC to Ocean City. The route is 242 kilometers long.

Travel directions

US 50 / I-595.

Maryland Panhandle

US 50 in West Virginia comes from Grafton and forms a secondary route through the wooded and mountainous western Maryland. US 50 passes through Maryland for just 9 miles here, crosses US 219 and crosses a ridge before entering the valley of the Potomac River, which forms the border with the rest of West Virginia. The US 50 then continues to Winchester.

Washington, DC

US 50 in Virginia comes from the western suburbs and, along with Interstate 66, crosses the Potomac River via the Theodore Roosevelt Bridge. One then arrives in Washington, DC The US 50 heads east, right through the center of Washington via Constitution Avenue. The US 50 passes right by Washington’s famous monuments and buildings, such as the Washington Monument, south of the White House, past several museums and ministries. Just before the Capitol Building, US 50 turns off and heads north on 6th Street to New York Avenue. New York Avenue is a major urban arterialand US 50 follows this road east out of town. You cross the Anacostia River via the New York Avenue Bridge, after which you return to Maryland.

Eastern Maryland

US 50 at the Chesapeake Bay Bridge.

Immediately after entering Maryland, US 50 becomes a freeway, the John Hanson Highway. It immediately crosses State Route 295, after which an interchange with Interstate 495 follows in the eastern suburbs of Washington, DC. US 50 then has 2×4 lanes, later 2×3 lanes and runs through the eastern suburbs to Annapolis, the capital of Maryland. Just before Annapolis, Interstate 97 joins, after which US 50 leads through Annapolis and eventually crosses the water via the Chesapeake Bay Bridge .

This leads to the Delmarva Peninsula, a peninsula shared by Delaware, Maryland and Virginia. The freeway ends at Queenstown, where US 301 and US 50 split. US 50 heads south as a 2×2 divided highway, passing through Easton and Cambridge, before bending east. The US 50 has several bridges in this area over estuaries around the Chesapeake Bay. US 50 passes close to the Delaware border, after which US 50 forms the bypass of the city of Salisbury. Here one also crosses the US 13. US 50 then continues east for another 40 kilometers to the Atlantic coast at Ocean City and ends there.

History

According to acronymmonster.com, US 50 was one of the original US Highways of 1926. Its eastern terminus was Annapolis at the time. In 1948, US 50 per ferry service was extended across the Chesapeake Bay, ending in Ocean City ever since.

On July 30, 1952, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge opened to traffic, then with a single carriageway. On June 28, 1973, the second lane opened, effectively turning it into a highway.

The John Hanson Highway, the highway from Washington DC to Annapolis, opened to traffic in 1957 as far as State Route 2 on the north side of Annapolis, which joined the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Between 1990 and 1995 the highway was widened and brought to the design requirements of an Interstate Highway. The highway has the unsigned number I-595.

Traffic intensities

The connection between Washington and Annapolis is the busiest, with between 106,000 and 123,000 vehicles per day.

US 50 in Maryland

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US 59 and 61 in Missouri https://www.extrareference.com/us-59-and-61-in-missouri.html Fri, 28 Oct 2022 18:21:05 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1436 US 59 in Missouri
US 59
Begin Winthrop
End Tarkio
Length 106 mi
Length 170 km
Route
Kansas

St. Joseph

Mound City

Tarkio

Iowa

According to Existingcountries, US 59 is a US Highway in the US state of Missouri. The road forms a north-south route in the northwest corner of the state and has a somewhat illogical route. The road serves the city of St. Joseph, among others, and is 170 kilometers long.

Travel directions

At the hamlet of Winthrop, US 59 in Kansas from Atchinson crosses the Missouri River from Atchinson and then heads northeast along the Missouri River to St. Joseph, which is about 25 miles away. On the south side of St. Joseph, US 59 merges with Interstate 229, passing through downtown St. Joseph. South of downtown you cross US 36. The downtown section is double-decked and runs directly along the Missouri River. After downtown, US 59 exits from I-229 and continues through the northern neighborhoods, then merges with US 71 after joining Interstate 29. US 59 then begins a parallel route along I-29 and crosses the highway several times. US 71 first exits to Marysville to the north, then US 59 continues west and east of I-29. At Mound City, US 159 from Falls City in Nebraska ends at US 59. About 20 miles further US 59 turns north, further away from I-29 and passes through Tarkio, where it crosses US 136. Not far after, the border with Iowa follows, after which US 59 in Iowa continues to Harlan.

History

US 59 was added to the US Highway system in 1934. The route has not changed substantially in Missouri since then. It’s a relatively secondary route, especially since I-29 opened in the 1960s and 1970s.

Traffic intensities

Due to the parallel route present, the US 59 is not very busy. Every day 9,400 vehicles cross the Kansas border, dropping to 4,900 vehicles towards St. Joseph. The rest of the route has between 600 and 1,400 vehicles.

US 61 in Missouri

US 61
Get started Holland
End St. Francisville
Length 392 mi
Length 630 km
Route
Arkansas

Steele

Haytic

Mew Madrid

Sikeston

Cape Girardeau

Jackson

Perryville

ste. Genevieve

Festus

Arnold

ballwin

Chesterfield

Wentzville

Troy

Bowling Green

Hannibal

La Grange

Canton

wayland

Iowa

According to Anycountyprivateschools, US 61 is a US Highway in the US state of Missouri. The road forms a long north-south route through the east of the state. The road runs parallel to Interstate 55 from the Arkansas border to St. Louis and a 2×2 divided highway north of St. Louis to the Iowa border. The road is 630 kilometers long.

Travel directions

Southern Missouri

In the Mississippi River valley, US 61 in Arkansas enters the state of Missouri from Blytheville and then parallels Interstate 55 to the north. After eight miles, US 61 merges into I-55 at Steele for a double-numbering 42 kilometers until Portageville. En route you cross Interstate 155 which leads to Dyersburg in Tennessee. Then the road parallels I-55 again through the flat land and just before New Madrid US 62 from Pocahontas merges into Arkansas. After New Madrid, the road runs due north, a little further from the Mississippi River, but still through the torrent valley. At Sikeston one crosses theUS 60 and US 62 then merge towards Cairo in the east. The US 61 then only continues to Cape Girardeau, a somewhat larger town, 50 kilometers to the north.

Just before Cape Girardeau there is a short double numbering with I-55, after which the road runs through the west of the city via the Kingshighway. North of the city, I-55 intersects twice in quick succession and US 61 east of I-55 heads north, following the Mississippi River a few miles away. One passes through Perryville and occasionally crosses a state route. There are few bridges over the Mississippi River, only one between Cape Girardeau and St. Louis. Further north, the west bank of the Mississippi becomes hillier with more forest. US 61 runs a short distance from I-55 here, often in sight. At Festus, the US 67. joinsfrom Park Hills and Poplar Bluff to the south and both roads are then double-numbered as far as the metropolitan area of ​​St. Louis. That conurbation doesn’t start much further, and from Festus there are already a number of small towns that function as distant commuter towns from St. Louis. However, they are not yet part of the urban area.

St. Louis

The road does not pass through St. Louis itself, but through the southern and western suburbs. The southern suburb of Mehlville intersects with Interstate 255, which forms the eastern ring road from St. Louis and handles traffic to Illinois. US 61 turns northwest here and passes through a number of smaller southern suburbs, paralleling Interstate 270. The US 50 is also crossed here. In Kirkwood one crosses Interstate 44. The road here forms the broad Lindbergh Boulevard and is an important urban arterial. At the suburb of Creve Coeur, US 61 merges with Interstate 64, which also carries US 40.expires. US 67 then continues only to the northern suburbs. US 61 then heads west through the expensive western suburbs of St. Louis and then crosses the Missouri River. At Wentzville one crosses Interstate 70, which merges with US 40. US 61 then continues north with 2×2 lanes only.

Northern Missouri

US 61 at Wayland in northeast Missouri.

The road then counts over a long distance, the rest of the route in Missouri, 2×2 lanes with short highway sections here and there. The distance to the Mississippi River is slightly greater here, about 25 kilometers. After about 75 kilometers you reach the town of Bowling Green, where the US 61 forms a highway bypass. This is where the US 54 crosses. The road then continues through rolling country to Hannibal, a small town on the Mississippi River. In Hannibal you cross the US 36. Just past Hannibal the US 24 joins from Kansas Cityin for a double numbering of more than 20 kilometers to Taylor. US 24 then exits to Quincy, Illinois. Further north, US 61 runs a short distance from the Mississippi River and does not pass through larger towns in the state of Missouri. In the extreme northeast of the state, one still crosses US 136 at Wayland. Not far after that, the road crosses the Des Moines River, which also marks the border with Iowa. US 61 in Iowa then continues to Keokuk and the Quad Cities.

History

US 61 was created in 1926. The route follows an old trade route on the west bank of the Mississippi north of St. Louis and is called the Avenue of the Saints, from Saint Louis to Saint Paul. South of St. Louis, US 61 has no through importance since I-55 was built. Also in the St. Louis conurbation, US 61 is not an important separate route, and is mainly double-numbered with other roads. The northern section, from I-70 to the Iowa border, is of through-importance, this section is entirely 4-lane, largely completed in the 1980s and 1990s, although the northernmost section was not widened until after 2005.

Traffic intensities

The section parallel to I-55 is quiet, with typically about 2,000 vehicles per day. Through the suburbs of St. Louis, the road is busier, with up to 34,000 vehicles. The 2×2 section from St. Louis to Hannibal generally has about 10,000 to 12,000 vehicles per day, and about 8,000 vehicles north of that.

US 61 in Missouri

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Nebraska History https://www.extrareference.com/nebraska-history.html Fri, 28 Oct 2022 03:57:22 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1430 The area that now forms the state of Nebraska was originally settled by Native American tribes. Nebraska, meaning “flat water,” was the name the Native Americans gave to the river now called the Platte. Some of the tribes that lived in this area were the Pawnee and the Lakota (Sioux).

First exploration under France and Spain (1541 – 1803) [ edit | edit source text ]

Initially, both France and Spain wanted to control the area. Without visiting the area, French explorer René Robert Cavelier de La Salle claimed the area for France as part of Louisiana in 1682.

According to watchtutorials, in the late seventeenth century, Spain had contact with the nomadic Apaches, who also settled in present-day western Nebraska. Several years later, in 1703, France also traded regularly with the natives living along the Missouri River in Nebraska. The French built forts along the Mississippi and Missouri. In 1714, the commander of French Fort Orleans (more to the southeast in present-day Missouri), Étienne de Bourgmont, visited the mouth of the river he called the “Nebraskier.” This river is known today as the Platte. Bourgmont thus became the first European to approach the current name of the state. By 1719, the French had signed several treaties with these tribes. Meanwhile, however, a war had broken out between Spain and (among others) France (the War of the Fourfold Covenant), which prompted Spain to dispatch an armed expedition under Lieutenant General Pedro de Villasur in 1720. Villasur left Sante Fe for present-day Nebraska. However, his expedition was attacked and destroyed at present -day Columbusby a large force of Pawnees and Otoes, both of whom were allied with the French. The defeat repelled Spanish interest for decades to come. In 1726 Fort Orleans would be abandoned by the French and most European influence disappeared.

In 1763 France had to (temporarily) cede the area to Spain. Nebraska formally belonged to New Spain, but Spain would not pay immediate attention to the area. The area was too far from the center of New Spain; for example, the distance Mexico City – Nebraska was more than 2000 kilometers and there were deserts such as the Chihuahuan desert on the route. Since 1773, there has been limited trade between the British in the east and the Native American tribes in Nebraska. Spain responded with two trading expeditions in 1794 and 1795. During the second expedition, the leader, James Mackay, established the first European settlement in Nebraska, near the mouth of the Platte into the Missouri. Later in the same year, Mackay’s party established a trading post “Fort Carlos IV” near present-dayNebraska.

France regained Louisiana at the secret Treaty of San Ildefonso in 1800, but sold most of present-day Kansas to the United States in 1803 as a result of the Louisiana Purchase.

Disorganized US Territory (1803 – 1854)

In 1804, Lewis and Clark ‘s expedition passed through eastern Nebraska on the Missouri River on their way to the northwest. In 1806 another expedition, by Zebulon Pike, visited what would become Kansas (south of Nebraska). Pike also visited a Pawnee village in southern Nebraska.

From June 4, 1812 to August 10, 1821, Nebraska was organized as part of the Missouri Territory. In 1819, Fort Atkinson (just east of present-day Fort Calhoun) was established: the first U.S. Army post west of the Missouri. The fortress was abandoned again in 1827: more “more interesting” areas had been discovered to the west. From 1821 to 1854, the area again became an unorganized territory of the United States. Colonization activities in this area, “Indian Country”, were prohibited. Beginning in the 1840s, the Oregon Trail ran west through Nebraska. The route largely followed the Platte in Nebraska.California. Fort Kearny, an army post founded in 1848, provided a safe resting place for the travelers along the Oregon and California Trail in this new, “hostile” country. In 1850, a ferry service was established near what would later become Omaha to take these travelers from Iowa, on the east bank, to the west bank. Nebraska itself at the time was still a disorganized area with limited settlements. It was only a transit area on the way west.

Opening of the Territory (1854) and Rapid Population Growth

Covered homesteaders in Nebraska heading west. Photo from 1866, three years before the opening of the railway.

The United States Congress passed the Kansas-Nebraska Act in 1854, which gave Nebraska and Kansas territory status. However, Nebraska territory also included parts of the present-day states of Colorado, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Montana. The capital became Omaha. Many settlers rode covered wagons through Nebraska, heading west. They could count on the help of military personnel at military strongpoints such as Fort Kearny and other forts along the Platte between 1846 and 1869. In 1861 the Dakota territory was split off. The first significant numbers of settlers settled in the 1860sin the area after the US government forced Native American tribes to resettle in reservations.

Lincoln in 1868, one year after the “hamlet” became state capital.

Thanks to the Homestead Actmany thousands of settlers moved to Nebraska to claim free land. The first wave brought in enough (American) residents that on March 1, 1867, Nebraska formally became a state of the United States as the 37th. Since 1854, the capital of Nebraska had been Omaha, located in the east of the new state, 20 miles north of the Platte. Omaha was also by far the largest city in the territory. Most residents of the new state of Nebraska, however, lived south of the Platte. The capital was moved from Omaha to more central Lancaster (later renamed Lincoln). It was feared that the southern part of Nebraska might want to join Kansas and the village of Lancaster, to the south and much more west than Omaha, was proposed as a site for a new capital. An Omaha senator tried to avoid this by renaming Lancaster “Lincoln,” an unloved president among southern Nebraska residents with Confederate sympathies. This was in vain and Lincoln became the new capital. The village, formerly Lancaster, had 30 inhabitants at the time. To this day, Omaha remains Nebraska’s largest city, before Lincoln.

Settlers (” homesteaders “) in front of their residence in Central Nebraska in 1888

The Union Pacific Railroad was commissioned in 1869. This California destination railroad was the first transcontinental railroad. He followed the Platte Valley from Omaha in eastern Nebraska. The railway replaced the covered wagons. After the arrival of the railroad, Nebraska’s population grew rapidly during the 1870s and 1880s, from 123,000 in 1867 to more than 1 million in 1890. The main contributing factors were vegetation, agricultural renewal, and climate. Nebraska’s natural vegetation is mostly prairie, which lends itself to animal husbandry. An easy start in (extensive) livestock farming also allowed the settlers to easily explore the area. During the same period, the use of barbed wire, simple windmills, and the steel plow spread, allowing settlers to use Nebraska as prime cropland. By the 1880s, Nebraska’s US population had already risen to 450,000. After 1890, population growth slowed sharply.

Nebraska History

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US 95 in Nevada https://www.extrareference.com/us-95-in-nevada.html Thu, 27 Oct 2022 15:34:45 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1434  

US 95
Get started Cal-Nev-Aric
End McDermitt
Length 647 mi
Length 1,041 km
Route
California

Boulder City

Henderson

Las Vegas

Tonopah

Hawthorne

fallon

Fallon – Winnemucca:

Winnemucca

McDermitt

Oregon

According to Watchtutorials, US 95 is a US Highway in the US state of Nevada. The road runs north-south across the state, from Cal-Nev-Ari on the California border through Las Vegas to McDermitt on the Oregon border. The road is a freeway in and around Las Vegas, but otherwise mostly a single-lane highway through remote areas. The route is 1,041 kilometers long, and is double-numbered with several roads, such as US 93 and Interstate 80.

Travel directions

Las Vegas

US 95 between Las Vegas and Tonopah.

US 95 between Hawthorne and Luning.

At the hamlet of Cal-Nev-Ari, named after the surrounding states, US 95 enters the state of Nevada from California in the middle of nowhere . The road continues north through the desert, reaching Boulder City. Here begins the highway section, and the double numbering with US 93. The road is also double numbered as Interstate 515. You then arrive in Henderson, a suburb with 266,000 inhabitants. Here are 2×3 lanes, and one also crosses Interstate 215, which starts here. From the highway one has a view over the city, which is somewhat lower. The road runs to the northwest, through the various suburbs and suburbs. The neighborhoods of Las Vegas are densely built, with very little greenery. The highway then turns to the west, and one gets closer to the center. The highway then has 2×4 lanes, and one crosses the Las Vegas Boulevard, better known as “The Strip”. I-515 ends at the interchange with Interstate 15, which runs to Los Angeles and Salt Lake City. Continue straight ahead onto US 93 and US 95, which continue to form a highway through northwestern Las Vegas.

One passes through the western neighborhoods of Las Vegas, all suburban neighborhoods. At Summerlin Parkway, US 95 turns north, crossing the northern neighborhoods with 2×4 lanes. To the north, it crosses Interstate 215, the city’s ring road. You then pass through the Mojave Desert. The highway section ends just before Indian Springs.

Western Nevada

US 6/95 west of Tonopah.

You then pass through remote mountainous desert area. The view is spectacular, but the heat is unbearable. It passes by Area 51, the Nevada Test Site, and the deserts of Death Valley. The only places along the way are no more than desert villages. The road often runs straight through the uninhabited world for tens of kilometers. After 350 kilometers you reach the first somewhat larger town, Tonopah, with 2,500 inhabitants. US 95 is then double-numbered with US 6, the remote road from California to Ely, the nearest town to the east, 280 kilometers away. After 620 kilometers you reach Fallon, the largest place since Las Vegas, with 8,000 inhabitants. To the west is Reno, a larger city that can be reached via the US 50. Some way north of Fallon, US 95 merges into theInterstate 80, the highway from Sacramento to Salt Lake City.

Both roads will then be double-numbered for 150 miles, all the way to Winnemucca, where US 95 exits north as I-80 continues the long journey to Salt Lake City. Then follow the last empty 120 kilometers to the hamlet of McDermitt on the Oregon border. US 95 then continues through the deserts.

History

According to Citypopulationreview, US 95 was created in 1926, although the route initially ran only through Idaho. In 1938, US 95 was extended far south into southern California, also establishing the route through Nevada. At that time, US 95 was already largely paved. Only the part between the California border and Boulder City was unpaved at the time, as was the part between Fallon and where US 95 now connects to I-80. Between 1963 and 1982, I-80 was opened, after which US 95 became double-numbered. In many places, I-80 was built directly over US 95.

Between 2017 and 2018, a 5-mile section of US 95 just outside Las Vegas was widened to 2×2 lanes, between its junction with I-15 and the Apex Power Parkway.

In the northwest of Las Vegas, US 95 has been further expanded into a freeway. In 2011, a grade-separated connection with Horse Drive opened. On June 20, 2019, a connection opened with Kyle Canyon Road, upgrading 7 kilometers of US 95 northwest of Las Vegas to a freeway.

Traffic intensities

Daily 230,000 vehicles pass the I-15 interchange in Las Vegas, dropping to 180,000 vehicles after the Summerlin Parkway interchange and 90,000 vehicles until the 215 County Road interchange. Further north, intensities rapidly drop below 10,000 vehicles per day. There are 3,500 vehicles after Indian Springs, 3,000 vehicles after Amargosa Valley, 3,300 vehicles after Beatty, 2,500 vehicles south of Tonopah, 2,500 vehicles west of Tonopah, 3,000 vehicles at Luning and 3,500 vehicles at Hawthorne. Just before Fallon, more than 4,000 vehicles per day, but less than 1,000 vehicles per day, travel between Fallon and I-80. 5,500 vehicles drive off I-80 in Winnemucca, dropping to 1,700 to 2,500 vehicles to the Oregon border at McDermitt.

US 95 in Nevada

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State Route 85 and 895 in New York https://www.extrareference.com/state-route-85-and-895-in-new-york.html Wed, 26 Oct 2022 12:17:33 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1432 State Route 85 in New York
SR-85
Get started Rensselaerville
End Albany
Length 26 mi
Length 43 km
Route
Rensellaervilleslinglands

Albany

Crosstown Arterial

Buckingham Drive

Cortland Street

Belvidere Avenue

Washington Avenue

→ Albany / Buffalo

According to ACT-TEST-CENTERS, State Route 85 is a state route in the U.S. state of New York. The road runs from Rensselaerville to Albany and is a highway in Albany. The route is 43 kilometers long.

Travel directions

The road begins in Rensselaerville, southwest of Albany, and then continues northeast through several villages. One then reaches Slingerlands, the first suburb of Albany. At Interstate 87, the road becomes a 2×2 lane highway. It then passes through the western neighborhoods of Albany, whereupon the road ends at Interstate 90 via a trumpet connection.

History

The Crosstown Arterial in Albany was constructed in phases between 1964 and 1968, connecting to the concurrently constructed Slingerland Bypass.

State Route 895 in New York

SR-895
Get started New York
End New York
Length 1.2 mi
Length 1,8 km
Route
→ Queens / BrooklynWestchester Avenue

→ New Jersey / Connecticut

State Route 895 is a state route and expressway in the U.S. state of New York. The highway is a short link between Interstate 95 and Interstate 278 in the New York borough of Bronx. The highway is 1.8 kilometers long and has 2×2 lanes. The highway is also called the Sheridan Expressway.

History

In 1941, a short link highway was proposed by the City of New York to connect the planned Cross Bronx Expressway and the Bruckner Expressway for traffic that the also planned Bronx River Parkway through the Bronx could not use. In 1945, Robert Moses proposed a highway along the same route as the Bronx River Expressway. Construction began some time later, in 1958, as part of the elevated Bruckner Expressway. The two-mile highway opened in October 1962 at a cost of $9.5 million. From 1970, the highway was numbered as I-895. Originally, there were plans to extend I-895 another 9 miles north to the New York State Thruway, but that was never realized.

Demolition of I-895

As of 2018, the former I-895 has been demolished and replaced by an urban arterial with traffic lights. In anticipation of this, on September 24, 2017, the AASHTO decided to scrap the status of Interstate Highway. New York State subsequently renumbered the road as State Route 895. In September 2018, the FHWA approved the demolition of the former I-895, reconstruction began almost immediately. On December 11, 2019, the reconstruction was completed. In fact, two large pedestrian crossings have been created, the level crossings have not resulted in improved access to the local road network.

Lane Configuration

The SR-895 has no exit numbers.

From Unpleasant Lanes
I-287 I-95 2+3

Traffic intensities

In 2012, approximately 35,000 vehicles drove on the highway every day.

Williamsburg Bridge

Williamsburg Bridge
Spans East River
Lanes 2×4
Total length 2.227 meters
Main span 490 meters
Bridge deck height 41 meters
Opening 19-12-1903
Traffic intensity 83,200 mvt/day
Location Map

According to liuxers.com, the Williamsburg Bridge is a suspension bridge in the United States. The bridge spans the East River in New York City, connecting the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. The bridge is a branch of Interstate 278 and can be seen as a highway. The bridge is 2.2 kilometers long and toll-free.

Characteristics

The Williamsburg Bridge has a total length of 2,227 meters and a main span of 490 meters. The pylons are 102 meters high and the bridge deck is 41 meters above the East River, consistent with other bridges in the area. The bridge deck is 36 meters wide, with 4×2 lanes. The bridge is toll-free.

History

The bridge was the second to be built across the East River, and construction began in 1896. The bridge opened on December 19, 1903, for $12 million. Until 1924 it was the longest suspension bridge in the world. This bridge, along with the Manhattan Bridge, is the only suspension bridge in the region that carries both rail and roads. There were plans for a Lower Manhattan Expressway, Interstate 78. In that case, the Williamsburg Bridge would be part of it. There is about two kilometers missing between the end of the Holland Tunnel and the Williamsburg Bridge. The bridge is named after the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn.

Road connection

The bridge ends in Manhattan at Delancey Street, a major east-west axis in the Lower East Side neighborhood. This street ends in Little Italy. Because of the difference in height, there is no connection with the FDR Drive, but the bridge goes well over it. On the Brooklyn side, the bridge connects to Interstate 278, New York’s eastern bypass. The bridge carries 8 lanes, two metro tracks and a pedestrian and bicycle path. 110,000 vehicles use the bridge every day.

Toll

The connection is toll-free.

Traffic intensities

In 2012, 83,200 vehicles crossed the bridge every day. The bridge itself therefore has more than sufficient capacity, but the connecting capacity in Manhattan in particular falls short.

Wall Street

Wall Street with the building of the stock exchange.

Wall Street is a street in Manhattan in the American city of New York City. Located on the southern part of Manhattan, the street is best known for the New York Stock Exchange, one of the major stock exchanges in the United States. Wall Street is therefore also used as a name to refer to the entire American financial world. The street was originally called Waal Street by the Dutch settlers in New Amsterdam. After New Amsterdam was handed over to the English, this was slowly transformed into Wall Street. Wall Street has been the financial center of New York City since 1817. Several skyscrapers have been built around the street, often containing offices. Trinity Church and Federal Hall also lie on Wall Street and are today landmarks. Due to the high buildings, sunlight hardly reaches the street. New York residents therefore refer to the street as the Canyons of New York. Important events in the economic history of the United States have also played out in the street. After the stock market crash of 1929, the street was full of people and great panic ensued. Protests also take place in the street, especially when the country is in bad economic shape. An example was after the credit crisis of 2008 when the protest movement Occupy Wall Street staged large-scale protests in the streets and even set up tent camps. Also in the street is a large bronze statue of a bull called Charging Bull. The bull was placed illegally after the stock market crash of 1989, but it was decided to keep the statue.

Williamsburg Bridge

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Russia Geography https://www.extrareference.com/russia-geography.html Fri, 26 Aug 2022 11:04:36 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1405 Vegetation

In the northern arctic deserts of Russia, practically no plants survive except for a few species of lichens and grasses. Richer growths of mosses and grasses with the occurrence of dwarf birches and willows characterize the vegetation formation of the tundra. Further south, the tundra passes into the most extensive plant zone – the forest zone, known as the taiga. Both in the transition zone between tundra and taiga (forest-tundra), and in the taiga itself, larch forests prevail in the east, while birch, pine and spruce forests prevail in the west. A typical tree of western and southern Siberia is limba.

In the central part of the East European Plain and on huge areas of southeastern Russia, the original vegetation is a mixed forest. The southern parts of the East European and West Siberian plains are covered with forest-steppe. Steppe formations fill the Central Volga and the southeast of the West Siberian Plain. Semi-deserts are located in the southwest in the Caspian region. The Caucasus abounds with the greatest plant diversity, unprecedented in these latitudes.

Animals

According to The Makeup Explorer, the northern coast of Russia is home to arctic species such as polar bears, seals and walruses, and birds include gulls, auks and eiders. Arctic foxes and snowy owls hunt white hares and mouse-like lemmings in the tundra. Herds of reindeer roam freely here. The forest zone has a richer fauna.

Elk, reindeer, wolves, bears, lynx, sables, squirrels, foxes and wolverines are found in the northern taiga. Mosquitoes are ubiquitous in summer.

The more southerly forests provide shelter for wild boars, deer, woodpeckers and grouse. The seaside region in the Far East is home to the rare Ussuri tiger. Steppe squirrels (Burunduci), marmots and groundhogs, hamsters that are hunted by polecats and Korsak foxes live in the steppes, but there is also a rare saiga antelope. Birds are represented by falcons, cranes, eagles and bustards. The greatest variety of game in Russia can be found in Altai and the Caucasus.

History

Throughout its long history, Russia has been the crossroads of the Eurasian continent. Although in ancient historical times it was constantly threatened by nomadic invaders from Asia, it built up during the 16th-19th century. century a huge multinational empire.

Population

The Russian Federation brings together a huge number of nations, nationalities and countless ethnic groups on its territory. More than 100 different nationalities and ethnic groups live here (in addition to the dominant Russians, however, only 6 have more than 1 million members and Tatars alone are more than 5 million), which belong to approximately 4 main language groups (branches). The Indo-European group includes more than 130 million mainly Russian-speaking Slavic people inhabiting the territory from the Baltic to the Pacific (in addition to Russians, these are mainly Ukrainians and Belarusians). The other three language groups are: Finno-Ugric, widespread in the regions of the European taiga and tundra (Karelians, Komians) and in the Volga region (Mordvins, Mariians and Udmurts); Turkic or Turko-Tatar languages ​​are spoken in places in the North Caucasus, and especially in the Volga region (Tatars, Bashkirs, Chuvash) and Asia, and finally the Caucasian group, which includes the languages, which are spoken in the Western Caucasus and Daghcstan. A relic in this area is the Mongolian language of the Kalmyks.

The Russian majority differs significantly from the multitude of non-Slavic ethnic groups in terms of culture, religion and language. A strong Orthodox tradition has survived in the Slavic population, there are also many Baptists, and many nationalities have preserved their traditional religions: Islam among some Turko-Tatar and Caucasian peoples, and Buddhism among many Kalmyks and Buryats. The number of Jews is constantly decreasing through migration.

In the last three years, Russia has experienced a huge decline in the birth rate, which has resulted in such a decrease in population in natural terms, which has no parallel in the world. Beginning in 1993, even large-scale immigration cannot prevent population decline.

Russia Geography

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City Trip to Porto, Portugal https://www.extrareference.com/city-trip-to-porto-portugal.html Thu, 18 Aug 2022 17:50:11 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1394 Getting there

Many roads lead to Porto, but by car you are definitely more than 20 hours on the road from Germany. The best way to get to Porto is by plane. The Aeroporto Francisco Sá Carneiro is then about 11 kilometers from the city center.

According to The Dress Explorer, the flight prices are significantly cheaper than to Lisbon and you can make real bargains here. We always use the Skyscanner flight search engine to find our flights .

Airport transfer by metro

Before you arrive, find out which subway station your hotel is at. The best and cheapest way to get to the center is to take metro line E (Estádio do Dragao – Airport), which takes you to Porto daily from 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. From 7:00 a.m. to midnight it runs every 20 minutes, otherwise every 30 minutes and on weekends it only runs until 11:00 p.m.

As an alternative to the metro, bus lines 87 and 601 also run from the airport to the city center.

Airport transfer by taxi

We took a taxi to our accommodation as our flight was delayed after midnight and it was pouring rain. The taxi rank is easy to find by following the signs.

All taxis are metered, 1 kilometer costs 80 cents and from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., on weekends and on public holidays you pay 20 percent more on the fare.

Luggage larger than 55x35x20cm costs 1.80 euros extra. So if you have a carry-on backpack, it’s best to just take it with you to the front of the taxi.

For a taxi ride to the city center you can expect around 15-30 euros depending on the time of day and luggage. The information here applies to a normal taxi with up to four people.

We paid about 29 euros for a ride after midnight with two pieces of luggage to our hotel.

Private transfer

You can also have a private driver pick you up at the airport. This is definitely the most convenient option. The driver will be waiting for you with a sign just inside the baggage claim area and drive you to your hotel.

Public transportation

The ticketing system for Porto’s public transport cannot be called straightforward, so here is a brief guide to the different tickets and options.

Normal tickets

At the machines in the subway stations you can get a paper card (Andante card) for a one-time fee of 60 cents, which you can then use to book trips. The Portuguese call their trips “Titles”. A title is valid for 1 hour.

You need one card per person. It is not possible to book two trips for two people on one card.

You then hold the card up to the validator before you start your journey. This will then show you how many titles you have left. Even if you change trains, you have to hold the card up to a machine again (but it doesn’t cost any more). If you fold, you don’t have to touch the card again.

When booking the titles, you have to tell the machine which zone you want to go to. You can find which station is which zone on the list next to the screen. All trips in the center are usually zone 2.

If you book 10 rides on the card, you get one ride for free. On buses you can either pay cash to the bus driver or you can use your Andante card and simply hold it up to the validator. However, paying cash to the bus driver is significantly more expensive.

Andante ticket for tourists

Alternatively, Andante tickets are also available for tourists. You can get them at the tourist information office at the airport, in some shops and on the bus.

You can then use all means of transport at a standard price. However, these tourist cards are not rechargeable. An Andante day ticket (Andante Tour 1) costs around 7 euros and for 72 hours you pay around 15 euros per person (Andante Tour 2).

Hop on hop off buses

If you don’t feel like dealing with the public transport system and just want to get from one sight to another in comfort, then the hop-on hop-off bus is for you.

The buses cover all the sights on a set route and you can hop on and off at any time. The ticket for 48 hours costs 17 euros and you can buy it online here .

postage card

If you plan to go to a lot of museums, then the Porto Card could be something for you. This gives you a discount in many museums and some are even free.

The Porto Card is available with different terms between 1 and 4 days. You can also choose whether you want the Porto Card including local public transport or not.

With the first variant you can use the metro and buses for free, with the second variant you only get the discounts or free entry.

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Travel Guide

Although Porto is sometimes almost overshadowed by Lisbon, there are now various travel guides for Porto as well. In particular, we can recommend the following three to you.

Reise Know-How City Trip Porto : This series is certainly one of the classics among travel guides, but not without reason. Here you will find all information and good tips for your city trip in a compact and clear manner.

GO VISTA – Porto Guide: At a price of 4.99 euros, it is definitely a very good price-performance ratio. You will be given typical sights, as well as tour suggestions and many practical tips on local culture.

DuMont Direct Travel Guide Porto : The travel guide impresses with its cool design and a wide range of recommendations for going out, eating out and staying overnight. It also contains a good mix of classic and more modern sights.

Basti delved into our Porto travel guide (Travel Know-How Porto).

Overnight in Porto

Your hotel should definitely be in the city center so that you can walk to all the sights, restaurants and bars.

But it doesn’t necessarily have to be in the historic old town. Better to be a few minutes walk outside.

A hotel with breakfast is not absolutely necessary in Porto, as you will find small bakeries with delicacies on every corner. There you can easily join the locals.

We stayed in Porto for four nights and tried two places to stay. Both were not directly in the tourist area, which we found very pleasant.

In a 5-10 minute walk we were right in the middle of the hustle and could return to the less touristy corners in the evening.

The first two days we stayed in an art hotel, the Oporto Loft . There are only five rooms in a renovated old building, all lovingly and artistically decorated.

Top location, great breakfast and a highly recommended place to stay, especially in summer, as you can then also use the wonderful garden behind the house.

The other two days we were in the then only 6 months “old” tree house hotel , which we can warmly recommend to you.

The owner and the responsible interior designer did a great job there. 9 apartments, wonderfully comfortable and tastefully furnished in a minimalist style. We would have liked to have stayed longer. Absolute recommendation!

The breakfast room in the Oporto Loft.

Our little apartment in the tree house.

Did you know already?

We show you our complete luggage for city trips ! Curious?

Porto skyline

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Apache Trail Historic Route – AZ 88 in Arizona https://www.extrareference.com/apache-trail-historic-route-az-88-in-arizona.html Fri, 12 Aug 2022 15:19:09 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1389 The Apache Trail Historic Road, also known as AZ 88, east of Phoenix boasts great historical, cultural, and scenic importance. It runs 116 kilometers from Apache Junction to Globe-Miami, where the 63-kilometer Gila-Pinal Scenic Road connects directly, which leads back to Phoenix.

Between Apache Junction and Tonto National Monument, the Apache Trail is one of the most scenic routes in the United States. The adventurous ride is an unforgettable western experience. Theodore Roosevelt said at the inauguration of the dam named after him: “The Apache Trail brings together the greatness of the Alps, the splendor of the Rocky Mountains and the splendor of the Grand Canyon.”

  • Ask4beauty: Brief history and politics of state Michigan, covering latest population and geographical information of Michigan.

The Apache Trail follows an old Apache path through the canyons of the Salt River, but leads higher up on the canyon side because the canyon is now partially drowned in the floods of the Salt River and the lakes that subsequently formed. Shortly after 1900 it was laid out as a supply route for the construction of the Theodore Roosevelt Dam. Today it runs along a number of attractive state parks and small towns and provides access to the beautiful Superstition Mountains.

Landmarks

After a short drive along the panorama route, Goldfield Ghost Town reached, a former gold rush town of the Wild West with a heyday in the 1890s, which was rebuilt as a backdrop. Visitors can tour a rattlesnake zoo, explore the abandoned houses, or take a loved one to the local prison and hang it up in public – just for fun, of course. The town had almost 5,000 residents between 1890 and 1915, until the gold boom ended almost overnight. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., longer on summer weekends.

Back in the car, the path continues to Lost Dutchman State Park with idyllic camping opportunities and hiking trails on the edge of the Superstition Mountains. Adventurers go in search of the legendary mine of the German gold prospector Jacob Waltz. Treasure hunters from all over the world are still trying to find the disappeared tunnels in the mountains. Jacob Waltz was thought to be a Dutchman, hence the name “Dutchman”. He is said to have found rich gold deposits here in the 1880s. The state park is located in the middle of a desert landscape at the foot of the Flatiron massif. Rewarding trails lead through the desert landscape out to the rocks:

  • Siphon Draw Trail
  • 6 miles one way; 110 meters ascent to the Palmer Mine, 845 meters to the summit of Flatiron; Time required about 2 – 3 hours. The trail begins at the Camping Area (path no.53) with a view of Goldfield and Phoenis. The last part to the rock summit is very steep and strenuous.
  • Treasure Loop Trail
  • 4 miles round trip; Slope about 150 meters; time needed 2 hours. Circular hike from one of the two picnic areas at the end of the Day Use Area on a clearly recognizable path uphill through a desert area with many Saguaro cacti to the Green Boulder, a rock at the foot of the Flatiron. Way back parallel to the ascent path.

The Scenic Byway continues into the wilderness of the Superstition Mountains to Tortilla Flat. Here, guests of the only small restaurant have given dollar bills their names and stuck them on the walls as a souvenir for the owner. In the meantime, over 15,000 US dollars are hanging in the room as wall decorations in this restaurant. The mini ghost town with its western facades could be the setting of a western film. Even the dilapidated motel is just a backdrop. It is the last outpost of civilization before the start of the dusty dirt road towards Apache Lake.

The Superstition Mountains (superstition = superstition) consist mostly of volcanic rock and were born 35 to 15 million years ago. Huge eruptions initially distributed almost a thousand cubic kilometers of ash and lava over the country and led to the collapse of five partially overlapping calderas, which are largely no longer preserved as a result of the eruption. Later a new lava dome rose at the same point, which in turn has been severely eroded to this day and forms the mountain range, which today is dominated by block pinnacles, peaks and domes. The most famous landmark is the 1,382 m high Weaver`s Needle.

The sand run of the Apache Trail (sand, gravel and rubble) begins about 5 miles / 8 km behind Tortilla Flat. About 1.5 miles / 2.4 km further begins the steep, breakneck ascent down Fish Creek Hill (about 2 miles / 3 km long). This section of the route should only be driven in dry conditions and with a vehicle with sufficient ground clearance! The path is extremely narrow and you can easily slip on the loose scree when trying to brake. At the time of the stagecoach, the passengers had to run down the path to Fish Creek, the mules were harnessed to the rear of the coach to act as a live brake to prevent an unintentional descent.

There’s a nice view of Fish Creek Canyon below. From here it goes to the leisure oases Apache Lake and Roosevelt Lake to just before Globe-Miami, where the Apache Trail Historic Road ends and the Gila-Pinal Scenic Road begins. The narrow, winding, and unpaved road follows Apache Lake, wedged between canyons, for about ten miles. However, only the passenger can enjoy the view of the lake. The first access to the lake is at Apache Lake Marina, a boat harbor with a restaurant and campsite.

The Roosevelt Lake is a lake formed by the Theodore Roosevelt Dam. The dam holds back the water from Salt River and Tonto Creek. It is the tallest brick dam on earth, around 87 m high and 213 m long, completed in 1911. The lake is popular with anglers and water sports enthusiasts due to the tarred access road from Globe. The marina operates all year round. This is where the Gila-Pinal Scenic Road begins, continue on AZ 88 to Clayton and possibly return on US 60 (AZ 88 leads to the northeast, due US 60 – also known as the Old West Highway – to the southeast).

The first attraction on this route is the Tonto National Monument. The next stop is at Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park at. Those interested can stroll through the well-preserved remains of this Salado Indian apartment, use ladders to access the upper rooms and marvel at the numerous exhibits such as clay work and other household utensils from the period between 1225 and 1400.

On the way to Miami, Bloody Tanks Wash is passed, where a peaceful military meeting with the Apaches was to take place in 1864. After the military unexpectedly opened fire, 19 Indians were killed. Their blood colored the water of the pool and gave it its current name (bloody water tanks). The path continues through Devils Canyon and past Apache Leap, where, according to legend, 75 Indians fell to their deaths from the cliff so as not to fall into the hands of American soldiers.

West of Superior, at the end of this scenic drive, is the Boyce Thompson Southwestern Arboretum State Park. Visitors gain a comprehensive insight into the flora and fauna as they can be found in deserts around the world.

Apache Trail Historic Route

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Discovery Cove – the Orlando Water Park https://www.extrareference.com/discovery-cove-the-orlando-water-park.html Fri, 05 Aug 2022 12:04:14 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1387 Discovery Cove is adjacent to SeaWorld . As a special attraction, the park offers the opportunity to swim with dolphins, interact with other marine life and birds, and snorkel through a tropical coral reef.

From Orlando: Exit 28 on Interstate 4. From Tampa: Exit 27A on Interstate 4. Open 9 am-5pm daily, tel. 1-877-4-DISCOVERY. Tickets can be worldwide can be ordered online (electronic self-printing system, credit card). The swimming times with dolphins must be reserved in advance, only 1000 visitors are allowed in daily. You can also snorkel, swim and use the beaches. Diving goggles, snorkel, life jacket, towels and locker are included in the price. The access options are handicapped accessible.

HOLY LAND EXPERIENCE – THIS IS WHERE THE BIBLE BECOMES AN EXPERIENCE

Who doesn’t automatically think of Walt Disney’s World Resort when they hear the words “Orlando” and “Theme Park”? Maybe all those who have already visited the “Holy Land Experience” in Florida. This theme park is all about the Christian faith and the Bible.

Boring? By no means! You have to leave it to the Americans that they can deal with very serious, meaningful and historical topics in an extremely entertaining and cheerful manner. If you have not yet dealt with the Bible, you might want to read it after a visit here. Not relevant nowadays? That is also guaranteed to be a mistake. When the park did not require entry a day ago, it was literally overrun by almost 7,000 visitors. Nevertheless, it must of course be stated that it is not one of the 20 largest amusement parks in the USA, neither in terms of size nor in terms of annual visitor numbers. You will also look in vain for wild roller coaster rides here in the “Holy Land”. But that really shouldn’t be a reason to go to the park in Orlando just ignore it. Instead, it offers some wonderful places of silence. And that can have its charm in the noisy world of theme parks.

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The scriptorium. A museum for the Holy Scriptures

It should therefore also start with the part of the park that is the quietest – the scriptorium. In the Holy Land Experience, the English name “Scriptorium” is used to describe a museum that is entirely dedicated to the Bible and its dissemination. Visitors get an impressive overview of when, where and how the Bible was not only written, but also distributed throughout the world. Significant exhibits of original writings from various centuries alternate with scenic impressions that take you to different epochs and regions of the world. In this way, visitors not only get an impression of the history of the Bible, but also of its importance for civilization as a whole. Not easy fare for an amusement park, but very well done.

Jerusalem. The Eternal City as an imposing model

Believer or not: Many biblical stories are common knowledge, especially those of the New Testament. In the Holy Land Experience, visitors can get a vivid impression of these stories. The park presents the largest model of Jerusalem that has ever existed. Of course it is a replica of the Jerusalem in which Jesus Christ lived and worked. Where he stayed, where he worked his miracles and where he was finally crucified and resurrected, the model shows all of this as if the events of 2000 years ago were within reach. By the way, questions are expressly welcome after the tour.

The tabernacle. A place with goosebumps

If the scriptorium is tough on the head, then the tabernacle could be considered heavy food for the soul. Because in this part of the Holy Land Experience a “priest and teacher” takes over the direction and brings the visitors closer to the essence of the Christian faith. At least that’s the concept. That might sound like hard to digest, but it is actually presented with high theatrical standards in a great setting and with wonderful effects. Even atheists can expect goose bumps here. You don’t have to be proselytized in order to gain a lot from this part of the park!

“The Great Temple” takes you back to the time immediately after the birth of Christ

Dimensions of a completely different kind await the visitor in the “Great Temple” of Jerusalem. In this huge, stylized replica of one of the shrines of Judaism, visitors can expect an impression of life around the temple as it was in the 1st century AD. may have played. The presentation takes place in the open air.

Speaking of presentation. Much of the attraction of the Holy Land Experience lies in the shows that are on here. Professional actors in colorful costumes act out various biblical stories and realities every day. There are productions that are aimed at adults, but there are also at least as many performances for children. Both target groups together should like those shows that deal with biblical themes in the style of Hollywood musicals.

A Christian theme park is hard to imagine without a church. So it’s no wonder that the Church for All Nations, the “Church of all Nations” not only invites you to show productions, dance and music, but also to church services and silent prayers. The imposing building in antique style can hold over 2000 visitors and has a huge stage with the most modern media effects.

Some information about the history of the park

The Holy Land Experience is still relatively young. In 1989 the land was acquired for this, and the park itself opened its doors in February 2001. Since then it has been expanded several times. The company has changed hands several times and is now (as of January 2018) owned by the Trinitiy Broadcasting Network media group. Under her leadership, a children’s theater, play facilities for children, shops, restaurants and activities such as cooking classes were integrated into the park program.

Holy Land Experience at a glance

  • The park brings Christian faith and the history of the Bible to life
  • It’s located in Orlando, Florida; the address is 4655, Vineland Road
  • The “Scriptorium” is a museum about the origin and dissemination of the Bible
  • The park shows the largest model of the city of Jerusalem ever made from the 1st century
  • Shows for all ages bring biblical stories to life on stage
  • Show productions and services in the “Church of all Nations”
  • Play opportunities and outdoor activities for children as well as shops and restaurants are available in the park area

Discovery Cove - the Orlando Water Park

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Indonesian Beaches https://www.extrareference.com/indonesian-beaches.html Thu, 28 Jul 2022 17:21:51 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1385 Bali has very strong sea currents, so dozens of people drown here every year. The sea tide is extremely dangerous even for good swimmers. It is better to prefer the pools, of which there are many in Bali. Otherwise, the strictest security measures must be observed. During high tide, strong currents form. For swimming, you need to choose those parts of the beach that are in front of the hotels, you can’t swim too close to the rocks, because there are very strong waves here.

According to Sunglasses Will, the beaches of Kuta, Legyan, Seminyak are especially dangerous due to tides over 2 m high. Swimming is only necessary on controlled beaches.

Anyer is one of the most prestigious beaches. Here you can hire a boat to explore the nearby coral reefs. At Karang Bolong Beach, the rocks form a natural arch at the entrance to the sea.
In Bali, this Indonesian paradise, there are many opportunities for outdoor activities and adventures: discover the beauty of the underwater world by scuba diving or snorkeling, surfing or windsurfing, rafting on the amazing rivers Ayung and Telagawaja, known for their fast streams. On the southernmost coast of the island you can watch dolphins.

Topless sunbathing on the beaches of Indonesia is possible, but not necessary: ​​the curious glances of hot Indonesian guys will not let you enjoy the sea and the sun in peace. In addition, “topless” is not approved by the public in general and religion in particular. On all beaches, sunbeds and umbrellas are provided free of charge.

Car rental in Indonesia

Driving alone is not the safest way to travel in Indonesia. Unusual left-hand traffic on narrow roads in one lane requires some skill. In addition, you will encounter certain difficulties when moving from island to island. On the island of Bali, it is bad with signs, and you will have to explain yourself to the locals mainly in sign language.
A Suzuki Jimme car for two will cost $25 per day. A “Toyota Kijang”, accommodating seven, – $ 30. A car without air conditioning costs from $40 per day, with air conditioning, respectively, more expensive.
All car rental rates include: unlimited mileage, third party liability insurance, collision waiver, collision damage waiver, theft waiver, airport surcharges and all local taxes.
In order to rent a car, it is enough to meet three conditions:

  • You must be at least 21 years old
  • You must have a credit card (if you take an expensive car, two cards are required)
  • International driver’s license issued at least one year ago.

In Indonesia, there are representative offices of such well-known car rental companies as Avis and Hertz. You can use the services of local companies. Small firms have their advantages. They usually offer cars at lower prices. They often turn a blind eye to non-compliance with the main rules: age and driving experience.

Attention! Never schedule a car return on a weekend, especially if it is the day of departure. A typical situation: the office is closed, and an employee of the company should come to your hotel to pick up the car. An employee got stuck in a traffic jam, or got lost, or fell ill, or was attacked by wild tropical monkeys – you can only guess about this, but he does not appear at the hotel until about ten minutes after you left for the airport. You left the rented car at the hotel, but the money that you were supposed to return was left with the employee. Of course, they are ready to return them to you, but for this you will have to come to Indonesia again.

Rafting

This tour will give you a lot of impressions. This time you will go to the western part of Bali. Rafting on rubber boats for 6-8 people in each along the most picturesque mountain river, on the banks of which you may be lucky enough to see families of monkeys. In 1990, an adventure tourism center was designed and launched by international experts, which is equipped with first-class equipment. Even small children from 9 years old can participate in rafting on the river. The rafting passes along the AYANG river, tourists pass 25 rapids, the river is surrounded by jungle, waterfalls, rice fields, and unforgettable tropical nature.

In the village of Begevan you will receive the necessary equipment: a helmet, a life jacket and an oar, go down to the river along a mountain path, where you will be instructed and blessed for the journey. It is recommended to bring a change of clothes and sunscreen. There is a special waterproof bag on the boat where you can keep your personal belongings, as well as your camera and camcorder. Experienced and professional guides guarantee complete safety. The most unpleasant thing that can happen to you here is that you will get wet from head to toe. So stock up on dry clothes. The descent down the river will take about two hours. A first-class lunch will be served on the river bank at the end of the trip.
The tour is for 4 hours. The cost of the tour is $50.

Indonesian Beaches

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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Industries https://www.extrareference.com/philadelphia-pennsylvania-industries.html Fri, 22 Jul 2022 10:05:49 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1383 According to allcitycodes, Philadelphia is one of the most important industrial and commercial centers in the United States. The 1920 census gave as many as 819,000 people (603,237 men and 215,763 women) employed in the various economic activities as follows: agriculture, 3595 individuals; extraction of minerals, 485 industries, 388,690; transport, 66,205; trade, 110,580; public services, 22,065; professions, 42,975; domestic services, 84,455; employees, 99,950. Industries still form the preponderant economic base of the city today. The number of workers employed in the various manufacturing industries was 251,294 in 1909; it was 251,286 in 1914; it rose to 281,105 in 1919, to gradually decrease to 274,319 in 1923 and to 244,655 in 1929. For the same years the number of plants was 8375, 8454, 9064, 6399, 5860 in 1927. The production value had been $ 743,720,000 in 1909; then it had risen to about 2 billion in 1919; in 1923 it was $ 1,998,700,000 and in 1929 it was $ 1,984,760,000.

All the industries are represented there: the steel industries stand out, with over 11,000 workers in 1927; the mechanical industries for the production of railway material (remember the famous Baldwin locomotives, whose factories from the heart of the city have been brought to Eddystone); the industry for the production of electrical equipment (over 10,000 workers in 1927); the naval industries; textile factories (89,000 people employed overall), among which the most important are knitwear (with 15,999 workers in 1909, rising to 21,935 in 1927); hat factories and hat factories; the clothing, cotton and silk industries. There are also important factories for the refining of oil and sugar (especially cane, which is widely imported mainly from the countries of Central America): 1741 people were employed in sugar refineries in 1914, up to 1937 in 1927 (3 factories); of great importance are the tobacco factories, with over 8100 employees in 1927. Given the spread of culture, the numerous newspapers, periodicals and magazines. Philadelphia is also one of the most important publishing centers in the United States, with 620 factories and about 13,000 people employed in 1927: overall the paper and printing industry numbered over 33,000 individuals in that year.

The Port of Philadelphia is entirely riverine and encompasses the Delaware River from the Pennsylvania Railroad bridge at the top of the city at the mouth of the Schuylkilli River over a distance of over 20km .; the lower course of the Schuylkill River from its outlet to Fairmount Dam, with a length of 14 km. The section with the greatest traffic is the one that extends for 10 km. from Greenwich Point, approximately 5 miles. to south of Market Street, Alleghany Avenue, Port Richmond.

The Delaware River is benefited by the tide up to Trenton: the average height of the tide is m. 1.80 in Chester (Pennsylvania), of m. 1.60 in Filadelfia, of m. 1.25 in Trenton (New Jersey). The start of navigability for the Schuylkill River is at Fairmount Dam; the average height of the tide is in this case of m. 1.50. Tidal currents do not exceed the speed of 4-5 km. the hour and very rarely prevent navigation. Going up the Delaware River, the anchors follow one another in the following order: Marcus Hook Anchorage, Port Mifflin Anch., League Island Anch., Greenwich Point Anch. and Port Richmond Anch. The number of piers on the right (western) bank of the river, also including Petty Island, is over 200; on the Schuylkill River, by 70; on the opposite bank to Philadelphia (Camden), of 90.

The trade of the port of Philadelphia presents quite pronounced characteristics. As far as foreign trade is concerned, for the period 1911-1920 there were the following figures: imports 2.8 million tons; exports 3.9 million tons; for internal and local trade, 18-17 million tons. overall. Total foreign trade, both for imports and exports, was 5-6 million tons for the period 1921-1928. As for the type of products traded, imports prevail crude products for industry (iron ores, manganese, etc.), petroleum, food products (sugar); in exports, especially oil and its derivatives, products of the steel industry, coal, wheat and flour, etc.

As far as domestic trade is concerned, the product that generates the most traffic is coal. The states that have the greatest relations with the port of Philadelphia are those of central-western Europe and those of Central and South America; so intense is the trade with the island of Cuba, from which it mainly imports cane sugar, which is refined in the factories of the city; important relations with Great Britain, Germany, Holland, France, Italy, etc., which import, through Philadelphia, a considerable quantity of oil and derivatives, wheat (mainly Italy in the immediate post-war period), industrial products, etc.

Until the opening of the Erie Canal in 1825, Philadelphia was the main trading post in the United States; later this pre-eminent position was lost to New York’s advantage.

Philadelphia is the most important railroad center in Pennsylvania: urban and interurban traffic is disposed of by means of underground and elevated power lines, and by means of surface tram lines.

The railway companies, which are based in Philadelphia, are, as has been said, among the most powerful in the United States, such as Baltimore and Ohio RR, Pennsylvania RR, Philadelphia and Reading Ry. Among the smaller ones we will remember the Philadelphia and Beach Haven RR the Atlantic City RR, which connects the metropolis with the great seaside resort of the mid-Atlantic, etc. The basic lines are those that connect Philadelphia with New York to the northeast , With Baltimore and Washington to the southwest , With Pittsburg, Chicago, St. Louis to the west: the city is located on one of the great parallel railway arteries, which lead from ‘Atlantic to the Pacific.

Philadelphia is also a notable aviation center, located on the route of the great Atlantic airline Boston-New York-Philadelphia-Baltimore-Washington-Atlanta-Daytona Beach-Miami (Florida) and that of the parallels that from New York to Philadelphia reaches Pittsburgh; from here one branch leads to Chicago, the other to Indianapolis and St. Louis to Kansas City, eastern sections of the great North American transcontinental air arteries.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Industries

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What to See in Naryn (Kyrgyzstan) https://www.extrareference.com/what-to-see-in-naryn-kyrgyzstan.html Fri, 15 Jul 2022 03:29:46 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1380 According to Smarter Computing, Naryn is located at an altitude of 2500 m above sea level, on the banks of the Naryn River, at the intersection of the Bishkek-Torugart highway. The city of Naryn is a regional and regional cultural and administrative center, here is the Naryn State University, the local history museum and the musical drama and national theater “Manas Ruhu”.

The Tash-Rabat complex is a historical and cultural zone that includes two ancient monuments: the Tash-Rabat caravanserai and the Koshoy-Korgon settlement. Caravanserai Tash-Rabat is one of the rare well-preserved monuments of the Middle Ages. It is located at an altitude of more than 3000 m above sea level in the picturesque Kara-Koyun gorge, 60 km from the village of At-Bashi and 90 km from the city of Naryn. Tash-Rabat was built in the 15th century on the ancient trade route from Central Asia to China and was an inn for merchants, ambassadors, travelers and other wanderers. This is the largest building of Central Asian architecture of that era, built of stone. It differs not only in its size, building material, but also in its peculiar layout based on clear symmetry. Lost among the pristine nature, far from the settlements, the caravanserai looks harsh, monumental and impregnable from the outside.

Settlement Koshoy-Korgon located 12 km from the village of At-Bashi. It represents the remains of a fortified city that existed in the 7th-10th centuries on the caravan trade route, in which the headquarters of the Turkic khans was located. On dozens of hectares there is a stone gallery with tens of thousands of black-and-white rock paintings in the upper reaches of the Saimaluu-Tash tract, dating from the period of the 2nd millennium BC – 8th century AD. The gallery is located 30 km south of the village of Kazarman. The variety of plots of the drawings is striking: images of animals and people, hunting scenes, ritual signs, episodes of labor and military activity. On the outskirts of the village of Kazarman, the ruins of the settlement, reminiscent of the city of the 10th-12th centuries, have been preserved. Monuments of the era of Sakas and Usuns are represented by scattered mounds 3-5 meters high, inside of which there are burial grounds.

Lake Son-Kul – the largest freshwater and second largest body of water in Kyrgyzstan. It is located within the inner Tien Shan at an altitude of 3016 m above sea level, 90 km northwest of the regional center Naryn. In summer, the water temperature rises to 11-12 o C, from November to May the water surface is ice-bound. The valley of Lake Son-Kul has been chosen by the Kirghiz since ancient times, they bring herds here to summer pastures, a large number of burial mounds have been found here. In summer, different species of ducks, gulls and other waterfowl nest here. The coast of the lake is home to many species of predators (snow leopard, red wolf, fox). In July, a festival is held on the alpine lake Son-Kul, the program of which includes equestrian competitions and the preparation of dishes of national cuisine.

Violent, swift, unrestrainedly rushing through the mountain gorges, the largest river in the country – Naryn , 600 km long. This is a complex and interesting river suitable for extreme water rafting. The main water obstacles of the highest, 6th category of difficulty on it are the Ak-Shyirak gorge and the Kambarata canyon. Most people prefer to look at these places from the shore.

The third largest lake in Kyrgyzstan Chatyr-Kol (width 11 km, length 23 km, depth 19 m) is located on the western outskirts of the Ak-Sai valley between the At-Bashi and Torugart-Too ridges at 3520 m above sea level. The surroundings of the lake are a habitat for many species of animals: red marmots, mountain goats, snow leopards. The south-east coast of the lake is a favorite nesting place for Indian mountain geese, listed in the “Red Book” and a variety of ducks. Naryn and Karatal-Zhapyryk state reserves are located on the Naryn River.

Naryn (Kyrgyzstan)

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Major Cities in Saskatchewan (Canada) https://www.extrareference.com/major-cities-in-saskatchewan-canada.html Fri, 08 Jul 2022 05:39:51 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1375 Prince Albert, Saskatchewan (Canada)

Travel in the northern part of Saskatchewan begins with the city of Prince Albert. It is located about 200 km north of Saskatoon. In the vicinity of the city is the Prince Albert National Park. The area of the park is 3875 sq. km. It was founded in 1927 in an area where prairie and woodland meet. Baribals, wolves, foxes, lynxes, elks, white-tailed deer, caribou, coyotes, badgers and beavers live in the park. There is a protected bison herd in the southwestern part of the park, one of only two protected herds in Canada ‘s national parks . Approximately 195 bird species occur here, including Canada ‘s second largest white pelican population. In addition, Prince Albert Park you can see cultural and historical sites associated with the tribes of the Indians who have been living here for 8000 years. The park is known as the last residence of the Canadian naturalist writer Gray Owl. He was of English origin, however, having married an Indian woman, he himself began to call himself an Indian. All the books of the Gray Owl called for love and protection of nature.

From Prince Albert, you can also go to Lake Miadou Provincial Park, Lake Athabasca Sand Dunes Provincial Park, home to the world’s northernmost sand formations, La Ronge Lake Provincial Park with the highest waterfalls in the province. All lakes in the northern part of the province are considered among the best places for fishing in the country. Anglers go here to catch pike, walleye, rainbow trout and perch.

Not far from the city of Prince Albert is the Wapiti Volley resort , where there are opportunities for cross-country skiing on the vast expanses of the prairie.

Regina, Saskatchewan (Canada)

According to Shoe Wiki, Regina is the capital of the province of Saskatchewan. One of its main attractions is Vascana Center Park, which is located in the heart of the city. This is one of the largest urban parks in North America, its area is 930 hectares. The park was laid out in 1961 by architect Minoru Yamasaki, who designed the World Trade Center in New York. It consists of six zones where you can see a variety of birds and typical inhabitants of these parts. There are hiking trails in the park. In winter, you can go ice skating on the local lake. Overall, this is a great place to stay. The park also houses the Royal Saskatchewan Museum . with collections on the history of the region and its natural resources. The museum was founded in 1906. Now the geological and paleontological collections are exhibited here, as well as a collection on the natural diversity of the prairies. Dominating the Vascana Center is the Legislative Assembly Building, the largest of its kind in Canada. It was built in 1919 in the English Renaissance style. Other sights of the city include the Science Center building , where scientific exhibitions are constantly held and scientific films are shown, and the Museum of the Royal Mounted Police, which originated in these parts.

East of Regina is the valley of the Kew Appele lakes. with numerous recreational areas where you can go fishing. Also from Regina you can go to the Souris valley, surrounded by mountains, the provincial parks of Mount Muss and Rovans Rabbi, to the city of Estevan – one of the “sunniest” in Canada, and in winter – cross-country skiing across the endless expanses of the prairie, for example, within the resort Mission Ridge.

To the west of Regina stretches the steppe region or, as it is also called “the land of the cowboys.” Grasslands National Park is located here on the border with the United States.. It was the first park in the country created to protect prairie ecosystems. In the park you can see meadows with more than 40 types of grasses, wind-shaped rocks and badlands with red soils. White-tailed and black-tailed deer, markhorn antelopes, sagebrush partridges, golden eagles, rare royal buzzards and owls live here. The Frenchman River Valley has the only black-tailed prairie dog population in Canada. In addition, 18,000 years ago, tribes of hunters lived in these places; today, more than 3,000 ancient sites have been found in the park.

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan (Canada)

Saskatoon is the largest city in the province of Saskatchewan. It stands on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River almost in the center of the province. About 120 hectares of parkland with 21 km of hiking trails stretch along the river along the city, some of which pass through the center of Saskatoon. In the vicinity of the city, Vanuskevin Cultural Park is of interest, on the site of which the culture of the Prairie Indians was formed for 60 centuries, and now there is an Indian village where you can get acquainted with the history and culture of local peoples.

In winter, you can go on a snowmobile trip from Saskatoon along specially laid tracks. Manitow resort is located 130 km east of Saskatoon.based on mineral waters of local sources. This is one of the most popular resorts of its kind in Canada. The mineral waters of Manitou have a beneficial effect on the skin, their composition is similar to the composition of the waters of the springs of Karlovy Vary and the waters of the Dead Sea. They contain potassium, calcium, magnesium, silicon, sulfur, sulfates, carbonates, chlorides, iron and aluminum oxides and mineral salts. The resort has a hotel with 102 beds, three treatment areas with swimming pools, where the water temperature varies from +33 to +38 degrees, a spa center, massage rooms, a beauty salon and a gym.

200 km north of Saskatoon is the city of Prince Albert , in the vicinity of which the national park of the same name is located.

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan (Canada)

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Attractions in Madrid, Spain https://www.extrareference.com/attractions-in-madrid-spain.html Fri, 01 Jul 2022 03:35:13 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1371 To the south of Plaza de la Cibeles , Paseo del Prado boulevard departs, which is often called the “Boulevard of the Arts”. Three of the most famous museums in Madrid are located here. First of all, this is the El Prado Museum – one of the most important art galleries in the world. The museum was founded in the early 19th century by the wife of Ferdinand VII, Maria Isabella of Braganza, and now contains works of art from major European schools from the Middle Ages to the 18th century. The museum complex includes the central building – the Palace of De Villanueva, in front of which there is a statue of the painter Velazquez, and a branch of Cason del Buen Retiro. The Palace of De Villanueva presents works by Spanish masters (Goya, Murillo, Velazquez, El Greco, Ribera), Italian masters (Raphael, Titian, Botticelli, Tintoretto), Dutch masters (Rembrandt, Bosch, Brueghel), Flemish masters (Rubens) and German masters (Dürer). The Casón del Buen Retiro branch contains works by English and French painters, as well as collections of sculptures, porcelain, coins and jewels.

According to Securitypology, the El Prado Museum is surrounded by two extensive parks – the Retiro and the Botanical Garden of Real Jardin Botanico. The Retiro Park is one of the largest parks in Madrid., its area exceeds 100 hectares. The park was laid out near the royal palace that has not survived to this day in the middle of the 17th century as a place for the royals to relax. On its territory you will see numerous sculptures, fountains and greenhouses. Also of interest here are two palaces of the late 19th century: the Glass Palace made of glass and the Palace of Velázquez, which serve as exhibition halls. On the territory of the park there is a large artificial lake surrounded by a colonnade dedicated to the Spanish king Alfonso XII. There are boat rentals by the lake. On weekends, especially on Sundays, Retiro Park is crowded with city residents who go here to relax. South of the El Prado Museum is the Real Jardin Botanico Botanical Garden.. The garden was created in the 18th century under the direction of the Italian architect Francesco Sabatini. Today, plants from 5 continents of the globe are represented on 10 hectares of the botanical garden, in total more than 30 thousand plants.

Not far from the Botanical Garden is the most famous museum of modern art in Madrid – Reina Sofia Art Center. The museum is housed in an 18th-century building that previously housed a hospital. Here are the works of artists from Spain and other countries of the 20th and 21st centuries, including works by Picasso, Dali, Miro and Gris.. It is located in the Villahermosa Palace in the central part of the boulevard near Neptune Square, on which stands the Neptune Fountain of the 18th century. The museum is named after Baron Thyssen-Bornemisza, whose private collection was considered one of the largest in the world; it was acquired by the Spanish authorities at the end of the 20th century and formed the basis of the museum collection. The museum presents works of art from different times and peoples: from the religious art of the Middle Ages to the works of masters of the 21st century.

From the Plaza de la Cibeles, in addition to the Paseo del Prado Boulevard, the Recoletos Boulevard originates, on which the Columbus Square is located (Plaza de Colon). The square was named after the great traveler who discovered America. In 1885, on the 400th anniversary of the discoveries of Christopher Columbus, a monument was erected here, which is a high column on which stands a statue of Christopher Columbus, whose hand points to the West. The monument is surrounded by a cascade of fountains. Near Columbus Square you can see an impressive building of the 19th century. The National Archaeological Museum is located here, the exhibits of which tell about the history of the country from prehistoric times to the 19th century, and the National Library – the largest library in Spain, which contains unique handwritten texts. Nearby is Jardins-Discubrimiento Park.

Be sure to go for a walk along the busiest street in Madrid – Gran Vía Avenue. Along it are buildings of the early 20th century, which housed hotels, banks, theaters, cinemas, shops, restaurants and bars. Gran Via Avenue leads to Plaza Españalocated in the vicinity of the Sabatini park ensemble near the Royal Palace. The central part of the square is occupied by a monument dedicated to the Spanish writer Cervantes. In front of the monument are bronze sculptures of the most famous heroes of his works – Don Quixote and Sancho Panza. Also on the square there is a small park and a fountain, and two skyscrapers rise in its vicinity – the 142-meter Torre de Madrid (once the tallest building in Western Europe) and the 117-meter Edificio España.

Attractions in Madrid, Spain

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Kivach Nature Reserve, Russia https://www.extrareference.com/kivach-nature-reserve-russia.html Fri, 24 Jun 2022 12:51:47 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1369 According to RC Toy’s Advice, 15 km northwest of Kondopoga is the Kivach nature reserve, named after a waterfall on the Suna River. Kivach is the most popular waterfall in Karelia, the height of the water fall is 10.7 m. On the territory of the reserve there is a large species diversity of flora and fauna, which you can get acquainted with during the trip along the hiking trails of the reserve. It is worth noting that there are more than 50 rapids and waterfalls on the Suna River, so it is very popular among rafting enthusiasts. Another well-known Girvas waterfall is located 32 km from the Kivach waterfall. Despite the fact that it has a technogenic origin, and most of the time its bed remains dry, the nature surrounding it makes Girvas one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Karelia. About 2 billion years ago, there was a volcano on the site of the waterfall. Its crater, which is now hidden under a layer of sediments, is the oldest volcanic crater in Karelia.

To the north of the “Kivach” nature reserve, the surroundings of the village of Belaya Gora are interesting, where the Tivdiya marble fragments have been preserved. Marble deposits in these places were discovered in the middle of the 18th century. Tivdia marble was exported for the construction of buildings in St. Petersburg. By the beginning of the 20th century, the industrial development of this deposit was stopped. Tivdia marble is very beautiful, it has more than thirty shades. In the village of Belaya Gora itself there is a stone church of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God of the second half of the 19th century. Its architect was K.A. Tone (author of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow).

To the south of the Kivach nature reserve is the village of Konchezero where the remains of a copper smelter have been preserved. The plant was built by decree of Peter I in 1706-1707. The buildings of the plant made of natural stone (built in the late 18th century), the dam, water tunnels (lari), as well as the foundations and part of the mechanisms of the power plant with water wheels have survived to this day. During the construction of the plant in 1707, an artificial lake was created – Pertozero. 14 species of fish live here – whitefish, smelt, perch, roach, pike and such rare species as brook trout, char, rudd, three-spined stickleback, sculpin and loach. This is a great place for fishing.

To the north of Pertozero, near the village of Spasskaya Guba, the ski complex “Lumi” was opened. There are 5 tracks of various difficulty levels (two of them are “black”) with a length of up to 350 m each and with a height difference of 75 m. A tow rope lift delivers tourists to the top of the descent. It is not certified and is far from world standards.

44 km southwest of Petrozavodsk is the urban-type settlement Pryazha. It is the administrative center of the Pryazhinsky district of the Republic of Karelia. The area is popular with nature lovers. Many lakes are concentrated here – Syamozero, Vedlozero, Kroshnozero Shotozero and others. The most suitable lakes for recreation are Shotozero and Syamozero. where there are sandy or sandy-pebble beaches. All lakes are rich in fish, perch, roach, pike, pike perch, grayling, peled and smelt are found here, that is, they are suitable for fishing. Also, along the shores of the lakes, sites of primitive people and burial grounds of 4-1 millennia BC were found, which is of great interest to history buffs.

On the shore of Lake Syamozero, near the village of Syapsya, in a pine forest, there is a zoo complex. Here, reindeer, brown bears, elks and other inhabitants of the Karelian forests are represented in their natural habitat in wide enclosures. Excursions are organized around the zoo complex, during which they tell about the peculiarities of the flora and fauna of Karelia. Visitors are given the opportunity to pet the moose and feed them by hand. The Shuya River flows through the territory of the Pryazhinsky District. It has low thresholds, which allows even unprepared tourists to raft along it.

In the northwest, the Pryazhinsky district borders on the Suoyarvsky district. Ecotourism is mainly developed in the region. Here is the landscape reserve “Tolvoyarvi”, which covers the vast lake-river system of the region, named after one of the lakes – Tolvayarvi. In 1919, the Finns created a national park in these places. After the territory was annexed to the USSR, the park ceased to exist. The Tolvoyarvi reserve was created in the 90s of the 20th century. Its area is 44 thousand hectares. Most of the reserve is occupied by lakes and rivers surrounded by pine forests, and in some places along the river valleys you can see esker ridges up to 20 m high and up to 16 km long. Squirrel, white hare, brown bear, marten, fox, lynx, wolf, elk, wolverine and reindeer live in the local forests. Swans and bean geese are found along the shores of swamps and lakes, and roach, perch, pike, vendace, burbot, ide and bream are found in the lakes.

30 km from Suojärvi, near the village of Loimola, the remains of fortifications from the times of the Winter and Great Patriotic Wars have been preserved, which are combined into the Kollasjärvi military memorial complex. There are about 60 military graves on the territory of the complex. In memory of the wartime, a memorial sign was erected here – the 18-meter Kolla cross.

In the southern part of the Suoryavsky district, the village of Veshkelitsa is interesting, where historical buildings have been preserved, reflecting the features of traditional Karelian architecture. Here on a hill in the central part of the village stands the chapel of St. George the Victorious of the late 17th century. Veshkelitsa is the center of the historical and cultural territory of one of the Karelian sub-ethnic groups – the “North-Western Livviks”.

In the southwestern part of Karelia, on the northern coast of Lake Ladoga, 270 km from Petrozavodsk, there is the city of Sortavala . It is located on the shores of the narrow Lappäjärvi Bay, 50 km from the Finnish border. For the first time, a Karelian fortified settlement on the site of a modern city was mentioned in chronicles under 1137, and a similar name Sortevala was first found in 1468 in Swedish documents. In 1500, the settlement is mentioned in Russian chronicles as the Servolovsko-Nikolsky churchyard, which was under the control of Novgorod. Today, Sortavala is a quiet town, the only one in Karelia where the historical planning and buildings of the late 19th century have been preserved. That is why in 1990 he was awarded the title of “historical”.

Kivach Nature Reserve, Russia

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Culture of Nepal https://www.extrareference.com/culture-of-nepal.html Fri, 17 Jun 2022 01:56:23 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1367 NATIONAL FEATURES

Almost the entire life of a Nepalese is based on religious dogmas and institutions. Officially, Nepal is considered a Hindu country, but practically the local religion is a complex syncretic cult based on Hinduism and Buddhism, with an extensive pantheon of Tantric deities, each of which is believed to have an influence on human life. Therefore, the monasteries and stupas located everywhere are of the utmost importance in the life of the Nepalese – here he necessarily spends some part of his life, and the spiritual life of the country is also concentrated here. Nepalese are very friendly and quite simple people. The long-term isolation of the country made it possible to preserve the best features of the local ethnic group in its original form. However, the massive invasion of tourists and climbers at the end of the 20th century, as well as the emigration of a large number of Tibetans from the Tibet Autonomous District of China, brought here a lot of previously unseen elements, starting with the “achievements of civilization”, and ending with the emergence of an extensive estate of merchants. At the same time, the system of behavior and social relationships in Nepalese society has changed rather weakly, and local etiquette is still noticeably different from most neighboring countries. According to Printer Hall, the generally accepted form of greeting in Nepal is folded palms, brought to the face (usually the forehead – in case of extreme respect, or to the chin – in everyday life). The gesture is accompanied by the word “namaste” or, in the case of an address to a respected person, “namaskar”. Men usually shake hands, but with women it is customary to use “namaste”. First of all, it is customary to greet the most respected or older person. When addressing someone one should add the polite ending “-ji” to the name, or the universal term of courtesy attention “khadzhur”. The system of gestures in Nepal is also quite peculiar – agreement is expressed by a nod of the head and a shrug of the shoulders. “No” is indicated by shaking the head to the side, often with the Nepalese looking down. To call an employee or waiter, hold out your hand with your palm and fingers down. A nod means yes. But some European gestures, like sticking up the thumb with a clenched fist, may seem indecent here. As a gesture of guilt, they touch the hand or body of the offended person, and then touch their head with their hand. In everyday life, Nepalese observe many religious and moral postulates.

You cannot step over a person who is lying down or over his legs, as well as show his soles to others or allow another person to step over them. Stepping on someone’s outstretched legs is also considered offensive. You should not even touch someone else’s foot, just like touching someone with your foot (or rather, shoes). You can’t touch the head of a Nepalese and stroke the head of children – according to local canons, this is a sacred part of the body and only monks and parents can touch it. When entering a Nepalese house, a Hindu or Buddhist temple, you should take off your shoes before entering, but you can enter the house only with the permission of the owner. You can not throw garbage into the stove or hearth (the hearth is considered here a sacred symbol of the home and family). The left hand should not give or take anything, because the Nepalese use it for hygiene procedures (there is no toilet paper in the country, instead they use a jug of water) and consider it “unclean”. Do not raise your voice in conversation – this is considered a sign of anger. You can take food and eat only with your right hand (you can hold a glass in your left). Before a meal and after eating, be sure to rinse your hands and lips. Dishes that have already been filled with food by someone are inviolable and are called “jutho” (“defiled” or “contaminated”), no one can touch it. Therefore, you should not try anything from someone else’s dishes, use a common jug, and even more so – offer something from your plate or glass to other members of the feast. For the same reason, you can not touch the displayed food and even the products on the market, to drinking vessels (the host himself will pour everything that the guests ask for, and without delay) and other people’s plates. The Nepalese themselves, for example, drink from a jug or bowl without touching their edge with their lips. But the plate of the guest of honor, which is usually always a foreigner, will be constantly put without any permission. There are usually no cutlery on the table, it is customary to take food directly by hand. However, in the house, and even more so in the restaurant, they are sure to be. Buddhist stupas and other religious buildings should be walked around clockwise from the left. When visiting a temple, it is recommended to distribute alms (“baksheesh”), and it is not the size that is important, but the largest possible number of beneficent people. However, moderation should be observed here (encouraging beggars is not the most rewarding job in the world, especially in Nepal). But donations to the temple fund will be accepted with sincere gratitude. Here, near the walls of the temples, merchants of all kinds of souvenirs and services usually swarm. It is difficult to fight them off, but it is necessary – a whole crowd of people humming and asking or offering something will run after the “fell for the bait” European, which often simply frustrates all hopes of calmly getting to know the attraction. It is forbidden to bring any leather products into the territory of the temples (often even shoes are referred to them). It is forbidden to touch the believers or the offerings made by them to the gods. Women should not touch monks. You can not wash your face with water that flows into a prayer water mill. Many Hindu temples are closed to foreigners. During any excursions, it is recommended to use clothing that covers the body as much as possible. Shorts and even trousers (jeans) for women are strongly condemned here. The Nepalese themselves never open their legs, and men, even in hot weather, do not expose their torsos. And even more inappropriate is the exposure of legs or other parts of the body in a public place, for example, for washing or sunbathing.

HOLIDAYS

  • January 11 – National Unity Day
  • January-February – Vasant-Pachami festival
  • January 29 – Martyrs’ Day
  • February-March – Maha Shivaratri (Shiva’s birthday, national holiday)
  • February 18-19 – Rashtriya Prayatantra Divas (National Democracy Day)
  • February-March – Holi (Fagoo, the holiday of the onset of spring)
  • March 8 – Women’s Day
  • March – Gode Jatra (Ghodejatra, Horse Day) and Saite Dashain holiday
  • March-April – Ram Navami (Ramnavani, Rama’s Birthday)
  • April – Navavarsha (Bisket Jatra, New Year) and Festival of Colors
  • April-May – Buddha Jawanti (Buddha Jayanti, Buddha’s Birthday) and Baisakh Purnima (celebration of the birth, enlightenment and death of the Buddha)
  • August – Rakshya Bandhan (Janal Purnima)
  • August-September – Gai Jatra (Gayatra, Cow Day)
  • August-September – Janmashtami (Astami or Krishnastami, Krishna’s Birthday)
  • September – Teej (Women’s Festival)
  • August-November – Indra Jatra (Rain God Festival) and Kumari Devi festival
  • October – Bada Dasain (Durga Puja, the main religious holiday of the country)
  • November 9 – Constitution Day
  • October-November – Deepavali (Tihar, Festival of Lights)
  • December 29 – Birthday of King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah Maiden
  • Weekend in Nepal – Saturday

Culture of Nepal

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Slovenia General Information https://www.extrareference.com/slovenia-general-information.html Thu, 09 Jun 2022 17:27:38 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1365 According to Pet with Supplies, Slovenia is a country of amazing beauty! But at the same time, it is the smallest country in Europe, with an area equal to half of the Moscow region. It is located in the pre-alpine part of the Balkan Peninsula. It is located in the pre-alpine part of the Balkan Peninsula. Washed by the Ariatic Ocean. It borders with Croatia, Hungary, Austria and Italy.

The capital is the city of Ljubljana. 270,000 inhabitants live here.

Language

Official language – Slovenian

Square

20 thousand sq. km
Population

2 million people
Density

100 people per sq. km.

State structure

Unitary state, parliamentary republic. It is divided into 210 communities, 11 of which have the status of a city.

Landscape

The landscape of Slovenia is so diverse that if you drive through Slovenia by car, you get the impression that you have passed through several countries. The majestic Alpine mountains and mighty peaks, smooth hills and plains, deep karst caves, gorges and wells, picturesque lakes and streams – all these natural treasures surprise with their indescribable beauty! 60% of the territory of Slovenia is covered with forest. No wonder it is called “the greenest corner of Europe”. The underground world of Slovenia is also surprisingly rich. Thousands of karst caves are located in the bowels of the Karst plateau. A large part of Slovenia is occupied by mountains and hills, especially in the north. From east to west stretch the Julian Alps with the highest point in Slovenia, Mount Triglav (2864 m), the Kamnik-Savinj Alps and the Karavanke Range. In the east of the country stretches the Pohorje mountain range with a height of about 1500 m.

Climate

The climate of Slovenia is divided into three types: in the mountains – alpine, in the central part – temperate continental, on the coast – Mediterranean. Winters are usually mild, in January about -2 degrees, summers are not hot, about 23-25 degrees. On the coast of the Adriatic Sea, it is usually 5-7 degrees warmer all year round. It’s a little cooler in the mountains. In lowlands, the amount of precipitation is not higher than 700 mm, in the mountains – up to 3000 mm.

Religion

The majority of the inhabitants are Catholics. The main church in Slovenia is the Church of Mary the Helper in Brezie. People with other religions also live in the country. Orthodox Christians are represented by people from Serbia who moved to Slovenia during the former Yugoslavia. Muslims are primarily people from Bosnia and Herzegovina.

HISTORY

By world standards, Slovenia is quite a young state; it gained independence in 1991. The roots of the Slovenes are the Slavs, who moved in the 6th century to the territory of today’s Slovenia from the Carpathians, in the 7th century they formed the Principality of Carantania – the first Slavic state. But it didn’t last long. Until the 20th century, foreigners ruled in Slovenia: first, the Habsburg monarchy ruled for a long time, later Austria-Hungary. During this period of oppression and repression, the Slovenes did not break down, but rather strengthened their self-consciousness and assimilated. After the First World War, Slovenia became part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, and after the Second World War, the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. After 70 years, the Slovenes wanted to switch to an independent path of development. In 1990, a referendum was held in which Slovenia was proclaimed independent. 90% of the population voted for it. In 2004, Slovenia joined the European Union and became a member of NATO. There have never been military operations in Slovenia, it has always been calm and stable here. The military conflict in the Balkans did not affect Slovenia in any way.

Agriculture

Farming in Slovenia is well developed and is not inferior to other European countries in terms of level. 37% of the land is in agriculture. And about 10% of the working population is engaged in farming. They grow wheat, grain, sugar beets, potatoes, hops, grapes, cattle, sheep. The state actively supports farmers, which creates a favorable environment in the agricultural market. Slovenia is fully self-sufficient in agricultural products and even exports to other countries. Especially foreign trade intensified after Slovenia’s accession to the European Union.

Industry

Slovenia has a good level of industrial activity. The ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy, manufacturing industry, and the automotive industry are developed: the Revoz automobile plant, which produces Renault Clio, and the UNIOR plant, which manufactures auto parts and exports its products for the German automotive industry. In addition, Slovenia produces electrical equipment, machine tools, refrigerators and agricultural machinery, exports audio and video equipment. Developed merchant shipping.

Tourism

In recent years, tourism in Slovenia has been developing rapidly. Although Slovenia is one of the smallest countries in Europe, its nature is so interesting and diverse that it makes it one of the most popular areas of the Balkan Peninsula. The tourism sector accounts for about 10% of GDP.

Slovenia is a very welcoming country with a surprisingly friendly atmosphere. Slovenia is the perfect place for a leisurely holiday on the Adriatic coast or for a fresh adrenaline rush. A true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The possibilities are endless both in winter and summer: rafting on the Soča River, ice skating on Lake Bled, many ski resorts, climbing ice waterfalls, the Triglav National Park with its beautiful flora and fauna, the warm waters of the Adriatic – all this will allow you to choose any kind rest according to your taste.

Slovenia General Information

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Georgia Population, Society and Rights https://www.extrareference.com/georgia-population-society-and-rights.html Fri, 03 Jun 2022 14:10:51 +0000 https://www.extrareference.com/?p=1355 According to Handbag Picks, Georgia, one of the 15 member states of the USSR, now has 4,049,000 residents, With a relatively high density, 58 residents for 2 km, on a sup. of 69,700 km 2. The master it is Tbilisi (694,000 residents), formerly known as Tiflis. In the decade 1948-58, industrial activities particularly intensified: manganese (the richest deposits in the world), hard coal, oil, barite, rare metals (gold), construction rocks form the basis of numerous industrial activities including: heavy industry (steel, mechanical), oil refineries, chemical laboratories; in addition to the textile and other food (wine) industries. More than 900 large factories have been built; among these the most important: the Transcaucasian “Stalin” steel plant, a car factory (in Kutaisi), the machine tool plant in Kirov, the chemical laboratory in Rustavi, the large coal mining plants.

Agriculture has also taken on a new development; the climate allows various crops, of vines, cereals, plums, citrus fruits as well as tea and tobacco. The Colchis, once a swampy depression, has become a vast garden for a complex of new canals; millions of eucalyptus have been planted. 674 kolkhoz and 23 sovkhoz are dedicated to tea cultivation; the global harvest went from 33,700 kg in 1950 to 106,000 in 1956. Geranium is also grown. The rich vegetation favors beekeeping. Cattle breeding developed: 1,458,000 cattle; pigs 771,000; rams and goats 2,070,000.

Population, society and rights

Georgia is made up of the melting pot of ethnic groups typical of the Caucasian region. Although the majority of the population (about 83.3%) is Georgian, there are about eighty different nationalities, among which the most represented are Azerbaijani (6.5%), Armenian (5.7%) and Russian (1.5%). As in the case of Abkhazia and Ossetia, the concentration of Armenian and Azerbaijani minorities in border regions, respectively in Javakheti and Kvemo Kartli, has generated inter-ethnic tensions and demands for greater autonomy. This also happened for the Agara, an ethnically Georgian region, whose population, converted to Islam during the Ottoman rule, has long benefited from an autonomy based on religious affiliation. In a predominantly Christian Orthodox country, Muslims represent the main religious minority (about 10% of the population), followed by Armenian-Gregorian and Catholic minorities. One problem facing Georgia is that of internal refugees, who often live in very difficult conditions. According to government data, there were 260,000 displaced people in the country at the end of 2014, mainly from the territories of Ossetia and Abkhazia.

The ‘revolution of roses’, the first of the bloodless ‘color revolutions’ that affected the post-Soviet space in the three-year period 2003-05, had raised great hopes for the possibility of renewal of a corrupt and authoritarian ruling class. Defined by the then US President George W. Bush as a “beacon of freedom for the region and for the world”, Georgia has partially failed to meet the expectations of democratization. Despite this, the country remains the freest in the complex scenario of the South Caucasus. The electoral processes, in particular, have registered a constant approximation to the internationally recognized standards of transparency, freedom and fairness. Following the anti-government demonstrations in spring 2009, a package of constitutional amendments was launched which introduced a relationship of trust between parliament and executive and strengthened the powers of the prime minister over those of the president of the republic. In fact, we have passed from a semi-presidential system to a parliamentary one.

In the last year there has been an inversion of the democratic process. In particular, with regard to freedom of the press, the trial opened in August 2015 against Rustavi 2, the country’s best-known television network, was widely criticized as politically motivated.

Language

Literary and national language is Georgian or Grusinic (georg. K‛art‛uli ena); belongs to the Caucasian family and belongs to the southern or Cartvelic group of the same. The dialectal fractionation is minimal. In the phonetics we note the presence of a strong expiratory accent which has produced frequent falls of unstressed vowels. Georgian is written with an alphabet derived from the Armenian one.

Georgia Country Society

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