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Imagine lying on white sand next to crystal clear waters and soaking in the sunshine as sunscreen is gently rubbed into your skin. So, sit back and enjoy this ride as we take you to some of the most beautiful beaches of the world.

1) Copacabana, Brazil
Spanning over a distance of 3 miles right in front of Rio de Janeiro, Copacabana is perhaps the most famous beach in the world. Breathtaking scenery with dark granite rocks form an exquisite gateway to the sea. Combined with a parade feel, beautiful bodies and gorgeous faces greet you as you lay down and enjoy the day.

2) Waikiki, Hawaii
Situated on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, Waikiki is a beautiful beach, arguably among one of the world’s finest. Pick sea shells or look for pearls on the shore as the comfortable island charms you with its cosmopolitan nature.

3) Cancun, Mexico
Sun, sand and lots and lots of surf. Cancun offers everything for everyone: luxury hotels and non-stop partying by the sea. In the proud colorful country of the Aztecs, Cancun has 250 days of sunshine for you. Enjoy its aquamarine waters and teeming undersea life.

4) Surfer’s Paradise, Australia
Every year millions of tourists flock to the famous Gold Cost to surf, swim, party and then surf some more. With some of the most amazing casinos and night-clubs opening out into the vast cerulean blue ocean, wild nights of partying and days of lying in the sun are some of the many activities you will do here.

5) Negril, Jamaica
This pristine beach offers 7 miles of superb white sand, restaurants along the waterfront, and a perfect climate all the year around. It isn’t any surprise why Jamaica tops everyone’s list of favorite beaches. Allow the calm waves to soothe you as are acquainted with the famous Jamaican hospitality.

6) South Beach, Florida
As the American continent grows cold, this part of the United States will surprise you with sun and lots of sand. While the beach in itself is marvelous, South Beach is more of a social experience than merely for tanning yourself.

7) Phi Phi, Thailand
Divided into two distinct islands: Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Leh (smaller), experience calm weather and aquamarine waters with coral reefs teeming with life. Go scuba diving or snorkeling in these clear blue waters.

Natadola Beach, Fiji
The warm climate of Fiji never reaches an extreme temperature. Located on the main island of Viti Levu, this is perhaps one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, called Natadola. You can do a host of activities on this beach from snorkeling to horseback riding.

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10 Most Exotic Destinations in the World

1. Argentina
   Tempting as always, Argentina’s stunning natural wonders, classy elegance, and cosmopolitan capital with a European-flavored sophistication is always a pleasant experience. Also one of the worlds best travel bargains, this country full of passionate culture, and is an exotic destination par excellence.

2. Cambodia
   If you’ve trusted your eyes all through you life, visit Cambodia and you begin doubting them. Unimaginable splendor of the 9^th through 13^th century Khmer temples will amaze you. Tropical climate with a lone beach hut in sight and the lush greenery of rainforests, will tell you tall tales of adventures and stories full of mystery and myth.

3. Cuba
   Historic colonial architecture, salsa beats to set your heart racing, Che Guevera murals, white sand beaches, green fields of ripe sugarcane – all these images only talk of a single country: Cuba! This unique country of historical heritage and world class tourist attractions is a must for any traveler. Sip mojitos as you hear tales of heroism during the epic communist revolution. Bewildering and bewitching, confounding and exciting, Cuba has it all!

4. Israel
   More than just being a power key or a promised land, Israel is an unforgettable city. Beaches and lots of sun shine dot the landscape. You will be surprised with everything that you see.

5. Guatemala
   This magnificent country in Central America offers everything that any exotic traveler would want. From active volcanoes to the exotic Mayan ruins, the experience of visiting this exotic country is decidedly intense. Indigenous culture and ancient ruins, plus blazing colors welcome you to this destination.

6. India
   Once you visit India, you can never be the same again. The country which always springs a surprise at each step is a spiritual, religious and extraordinary experience. With a history of over 5,000 years and relics from the prehistoric times, this land of sages, Himalayas and the Taj Mahal is custom made and you can experience how traditions can co exist with the new.

7. Iceland
   This country, whose chilly name sends Goosebumps on your skin, is fast emerging as a hot exotic destination. Majestic glaciers, natural hot water springs, geysers, active volcanoes, portentous peaks and lava deserts invite on this fascinating journey. Apart from its rich natural heritage, Iceland is also famous for its traditions, folklore and rich history.

8. Morocco
   Tangier, Casablanca, Marrakesh… the very names of these cities create a vision of mystery and adventure in mind. Spicy streets, jostling crowds, whirling dervishes, soft desert dunes and the haunting melodies – Morocco is an exotic destination par excellence.

9. Kenya
   Famous as the “cradle of civilization” Kenya can be wild and at times dangerous. Full of magnificent wildlife parks , virgin beaches, coral reefs teeming with life, and memorable ancient Swahili cities, Kenya is one stop you can’s possibly afford to miss.

10. Nepal
    With the proud peaks of the majestic Himalayas bordering its borders, Nepal is a land of sublime experiences. Some of the world’s best hiking trails exist in this country. Rich in scenic splendor and cultural experiences, the kingdom of Nepal is a welcome break to experience nature’s best.

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Top 8 Cruises in the World

1. Barbados
   Get everything you could possibly hope for: unspoiled charms and sophistication, hot sun, deep blue waters, friendly people and lots and lots of beautiful beaches. Spend time out on the white beach as this virgin territory of travel opens its arms and envelops you with its grace and hospitality.

2. French Riviera
   There are way too many tempting cruises that the Mediterranean offers, even to make a list out of them. But the French Riviera wins hands down. Be it Cannes or Monte Carlo, gaze at stunning scenic views as you sail out in the horizon.

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3. Alaska
   While a cruise for most only means tropical climates, a cruise to Alaska changes all of that. Breathtaking views of mountains will satiate your appetite for superb scenery. While you’re on the cruise, see if you can anchor and go up Mt. McKinley to see to the edges of earth!

4. Cayman Islands
   Imagine soft white sand, and beautiful underwater reefs teeming with life plus unknown shipwrecks. Does this sound tempting to your ears? The Cayman Islands hold all these and more pleasures in store. Trendy shops and the spectacular Caribbean charms will dazzle you as you lounge in luxury on a cruise here.

5. Panama Canal
   The reason for going on this cruise isn’t just the mere fact that this is perhaps the most colossal engineering project for mankind, but the fact that this destination is a testimony to the unbreakable human spirit to excel every single time. Linking two oceans and separating continents, this canal is a dream to cruise on.

6. Aruba
   The Caribbean’s answer to Las Vegas, Aruba has some glorious beaches. But the best part is that the people of Aruba know how to party and their friendly hospitality will charm you in ways more than one.

7. Norway
   While most Scandinavian countries are famous for their gorgeous beauties, take this cruise to gaze at some sky-high rocky cliffs, sparkling inky blue waters, and of course the amazing climate.

8. Virgin Islands
   Pristine and almost immaculate, these islands offer exquisite beauty, great natural grace and beautiful relaxing beaches as a respite for escaping a hectic life. Take a cruise to the Virgin Islands and experience serenity like it was meant to be: at peace.

Top 10 destinations to visit in India

1) Taj Mahal
This magnificent ode to love, etched in marble, has always been on the top list of anyone who wants to visit India. Also included in the list of the new Seven Wonders of the World, it look nearly 20 years and 20,000 builders to create this monument. This is the only architectural building of its kind, symmetrical from every angle and perfect in each aspect.

2) The Pink City
Known the world over for its forts, palaces and tales of heroism and bravery, Jaipur, or the Pink City, is characterized by its pink limestone buildings. Home to the bravest of brave who fought all invaders and took on the might of the Mughals, the Rajput warriors fought battles in the fields to protect their homeland. On seeing the losing battles and their husbands dying in war, many a wife of the warriors committed an act of Johar, or self immolation to save their honor from the incoming barbarians. While Jaipur is famous for its heroism, it is also famous for its beautiful desert and the home of one of the most beautiful women in the world : Maharani Gayatri Devi (Time magazine survey). Jaipur is also a gateway into the beautiful and mystical Thar desert.

3) God’s Own Country
The backwaters of Kerala are known to enchant tourists. Popularly known as God’s Own Country, the beautiful greenery and boats traversing the length of this state of India add a very charming and graceful look. While you gaze out at the horizon or look at the full moon reflection in the flowing water, a must is experiencing the ancient Indian science of Ayurveda. Enjoy in the rejuvenating ayurvedic massage therapies as they soothe and calm your nerves and take you into a wonderland of bliss.

4) Goa
Once only popular amongst the hippie crowd of the 70’s, Goa is the city of sun, sand and surf. Ranking amongst the top 5 destinations to visit near the sea, Goa is everything that you would want if you want to be close to the sea. Go scuba diving or snorkeling or just sit by the fisherman’s warf and get a gorgeous sun tan.

5) Varanasi
Visit the mystical holy city of Varanasi to experience religion and faith. Situated along the banks of the sacred Ganges, Varanasi is a city bustling with activity. While you go on a boat ride along the river and hear the local folk songs, don’t forget to buy some of the most exquisite fabrics from this city. Famous the world over for its rich silk and cotton, Varanasi is the original creator of the Benaras brand of saris in India.

6) Lutyen’s Home
Also the capital of the country, New Delhi is fondly also known as Lutyen’s Delhi, after the famous architect. The glorious ramparts of the Red Fort welcome you in this city of immense history, traditions and culture. Visit the tallest minaret in India – The Qutub Minar, built during the Mughal rein. New Delhi is one of those few cities in the world which hold old world charm and modern day advancements together. So don’t forget to be a part of this melting pot of civilization.

7) Shimla
Like snow peaked mountains and old world charm? Well the Queen of Hills, Shimla is just what you want! Once the summer capital of the British in India, Shimla has retained it magnificent British architecture set against the majestic Himalayas. Pine and cedar forests and a rich culture are some of the many things that you will see.

Pondicherry
This restored former French colony exudes a rich Mediterranean aura, with its streets, rows of elegant villas, well manicured gardens and the Hotel De Ville. A small quiet town, Pondicherry is one of the most popular destinations for everyone visiting India. A skillfully planned town with a beautiful promenade and water front, this town is a home to a host of tourist attractions.

9) Orissa
Situated along the Bay of Bengal, this coastal state is home to some of the most famous architectural buildings that symbolize India all through the world. Drenched in the sparkling rays of the rising sun, the Sun temple at Konarak is a monumental representation of the Sun god Surya’s chariot. The 24 wheels are decorated with symbolic designs and this chariot is led by a team of six horses. Built in the 13th century, this is also one of the most famous Hindu sanctuaries.

10) Bhimbetka
The glorious remnants of the world gone by, The Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka were created in the Mesolithic Period. Situated in the foothills of the Vindhyan Mountains on the southern edge of the central Indian plateau, these massive sandstone outcrops display amazing painting on the face of stone. These paintings bear quite a striking resemblance to the cultural traditions of the inhabitants of the twenty-one villages adjacent to the site.

Best Theme Parks in the World

1. Cedar Park
   Also voted as the best amusement park in the world by Amusement Today, Cedar Park is a dream theme park in Ohio. With the biggest collection of rollercoasters, this park is currently home to more rides and roller coasters than any other park in the world. Also featuring some of the tallest and the fastest machines around, this thrill seekers paradise also has a water park, an entertainment complex, award-winning live shows and much more.

2. Island of Adventure
   Prepare to set your heart racing and your pulse beating in overdrive at this thrilling amusement park. Ride with your loved ones through five astonishing islands, where all of your favorite legends, cartoon characters and childhood heroes come to life.

3. Walt Disney World
   Located in Orlando, Walt Disney World is also the world’s biggest theme park. Covering an area approximately equal to one fifth of Singapore’s area, it hosts four big theme parks, three aquatic paradises and 32 vacation hotels, plus 784 camping sites.

4. Europa Park
   Second only to EuroDisney in terms of size, Europa Park is split into 14 different areas named after specific places in Europe. Over 100 rides and the biggest rollercoaster in Europe welcome you to this fabulous park.

5. Everland
   Located in the suburbs of South Korea this is the only comprehensive amusement park in the whole world. Over 40 facilities with a nature wild zoo make it a must stopover for all amusement park lovers. Blooming flowers such as tulips, roses, lilies and chrysanthemums welcome you into this park.

6. Blackpool Pleasure Beach
   Lying to the northeast of England and famous for its beautiful long beaches, Blackpool Pleasure Beach is famous the world over for one of a kind experiences. Rare and unique rides such as the Grand National, the wooden Wild Mouse, Noah’s Ark, Turtle Chase and Europe’s only full size Whip are some of the many amazing things that you will be tempted to try here.

7. Six Flags Magic Mountain
   Named aptly after magic, this magical theme park is full of rides, built on top of a mountain. Also home to a magnificent water park, Magic Mountain is a thrill seekers paradise.

8. Tivoli Gardens
   At the heart of Copenhagen, capital of Denmark, this park occupies an area of 20 acres, and is the Danish famous amusement park with the name of “city of the fairy tale”. Equipped with more than 20 exploration routes with different thrilling degrees, the park also has a flying line to let the tourists browse the fairy tale story that exists in the Anderson fairy tale story.

9. Port Aventura
   Divided in five distinct lands, this park includes many transportation rides, a tropical paradise, shows, beautiful landscaping and one of the most impressively themed Wild West towns!

10. EuroDisney
    Located in one the world’s most romantic city, Paris, Disneyland is spread over an area of 5000 acres. This Disneyland boasts one of the world famous big steamboats as well as a Grand Canyon replica.

 

 

Universal Studios Theme Parks Around the World

Universal Studios is also referred to as Universal Pictures or Universal City Studios, which is a subsidiary of NBC Universal, one one of the major film studios in America. They are located in Universal City, California. Universal studios is the second longest-lived studio in Hollywood. Universal Studios operates a number of theme parks based on movies it has produced. The original, Universal Studios at Hollywood, was started by running tours of the soundstages and back lots, while filming was underway. Universal Studios used to own the PortAventura theme park in Salou, Spain till 2004.

Universal Studios theme parks currently open or under construction are:

1. Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood is the original Universal Studios theme park, created initially to offer tours of the real Universal Studios sets. The attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood are split into two areas on different levels, connected by a series of escalators. The upper lot of the studio has Universal’s Animal Actors, Fear Factor Live, Shrek 4-D, 3-D: Battle Across Time, Waterworld-a live sea war spectacular, Jaws, King Kong, Nickelodeon Blast Zone, and Back to the Future. The Simpsons Ride will replace Back to the Future in 2008. The other attractions are Blues Brothers R&B Revue, Universal’s House of Horrors, Monster Skate Park. The Lower section of the studio offers special stage effects, Revenge of the Mummy, The Ride, Jurassic Park and Backdraft.

2. Universal Orlando Resort

The Universal Orlando Resort is a theme park resort in Orlando, Florida. It is a joint partnership between NBC Universal and the Blackstone Group. The resort consists of two theme parks (Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure), Universal CityWalk (a night-time entertainment destination), and three Loews hotels. In early 2007, Universal began considering the Wet ‘n Wild park in Orlando, which it purchased in 1998, part of Universal Orlando Resort. Its newest expansion plan also consists of a new Blue Man Group show in Citywalk for the year 2007, The Simpsons Ride to Universal Studios Florida for 2008 ,and The wizarding World of Harry Potter in Islands of Adventure for 2009.

3. Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan is in Osaka, Japan. The park is similar to Universal Orlando Resort, containing many of the same rides. Most visitors are Japanese tourists or tourists from other Asian countries such as South Korea, China, and Taiwan. In 2005, Goldman Sachs became the largest shareholder of Universal Studios Japan. Universal still has a small minority stake in the park. The main attractions are in 8 areas of the park.

 

They are:

1. Happy Harmony Celebration – Dream of Friends

2. The Amazing Adventure of Spider Man – The Ride

3. Terminator 2: 3 D

4. Hollywood Dream the Ride

5. Shrek’s 4-D Adventure

6. Sesame Street 4-D Movie Magic

7. Universal Monsters Live Rock And Roll Show

8. Animation Celebration

4. Universal Studios Singapore

Universal Studios Singapore to be completed by 2010 is an under construction new Universal theme park which is located within the Resorts World at Sentosa Integrated Resort in Sentosa, Singapore. There will be 22 rides in the park and at least 16 of them will either be original or specifically designed for this new park. The park is reported to be a “one-of-its-kind theme park in Asia” as Universal Studios has promised that this will be the only park it would have in Southeast Asia for the next 30 years. Its physical design will be larger than Universal Studios Hollywood with further room for expansion. The total number of attractions in the park will also be more than Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Studios Japan. It will, however, be smaller in terms of both size and number of rides than Universal Studios Florida. It is also estimated that the new park will draw more than five million visitors annually. The park will include 6 themed areas that encircle a lagoon and feature iconic blockbuster locations, as well as new rides based on movies such as Madagascar, King Kong, Revenge of the Mummy, and Waterworld. There will also be live entertainment shows and educational features where visitors can learn more about computer generated animation and the art of making hit movies.

5. Universal Studios Dubai

Universal Studios Dubai is a proposed Universal theme park located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, expected to be completed and open to the public by 2010. It is to be located within Dubailand which is an entertainment mega-complex. The project is a joint venture costing over $2.2 billion USD, with Dubai-based Tatweer. The park is expected to attract 5 million visitors annually when completed. This Universal Studios theme park is expected to cover 20 million square feet. It will be part of the larger theme park multinational development of Dubailand which is speculated to be 3 billion square feet. The development will feature at least 4000 units of accommodation and 100 restaurants and retail outlets. The theme park will feature attractions based on the films of King Kong, The Mummy, Jurassic Park, and Beetlejuice.

6. Universal Studios Korea

Universal Studios Korea has just been chosen and there is no news when its construction is to begin and when it will be completed.

Top 10 things to do in Maui

1. Luau
   Feast on some of the most delicious Hawaiian recipes such as kalua pig, cooked in an earthen oven, poi and haupia (coconut pudding), along with a buffet of other familiar foods. Have fun in the many street side eating joints also known as Luaus. See lots of Hawaiian music, hula, and fire dancing which will keep you company as you enjoy a pleasant evening out.

2. Go biking
   Maui is one of the few places in the world which is very biker friendly. Bike along the spectacular shoreline road or just go on a guided downhill bicycle tour from the summit of Haleakala, down through the flower farms and small towns of Upcountry to the beach at Paia.

3. Dine
   Being the epicurean center of Hawaii, Maui has a restaurant for every taste. With brilliant chefs who will make mouth watering dishes, to lavish hotel dining experiences. Experiment with Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, Italian and Mexican cuisines.

4. Deep Dive in the sea
   As the home to some of the finest dining spots in Hawaii, there are plenty of diving tours available in Maui. If you don’t want to get wet and still want to see the rich undersea life, climb aboard a glass bottom boat or go in a submarine to see the varied colors of the blue ocean.

5. Drive through the island
   One of the world’s most scenic drives awaits you on the island of Maui. You can go on a long and winding shoreline drive, drive through old plantation towns, or take a drive to the summit of Haleakala where the views that you get of Maui are simply breathtaking.

6. Go hiking
   Hear the frenzied chirp of exotic birds found nowhere else on this plant, or go on a trail to a magnificent waterfall. Maui has nature hiking trails for everyone.

7. And then shop some
   Full of galleries, international shops, designer boutiques and shopping malls, the island of Maui is a shopper’s paradise. Buy some of the Maui specialty items and products unique to Hawaii such as the hand-turned bowls and objects of beautiful native woods; hats woven of lau hala or one-of-a-kind jewelry, glass work, and art.

8. Sightsee
   Discover the charms of old plantation towns, tour the historic preservation district of Lahaina, see the biggest Buddha outside of Asia, or just take a break at an old church. Maui’s rich heritage will enchant you and make you marvel at the beauty of this wonderful island.

9. Go snorkeling
   With over 80 beaches on Maui and over 120 miles of coastline, Maui has sands of every color: gold, black, green, red and shimmering white. The crystal blue waters will invite you to see the thriving population of colorful fish and turtles under their surface. Go rent snorkel gear and make some underwater friends if you like.

10. Whale Watching
    Every year from November until April, Maui is a pleasant retreat for humpback whales. They come here to reproduce and give birth. Watching these endangered species in their element is an experience unlike any other. So, take an excursion into the deep blue sea and visit these amazing sea creatures.

8 of the World’s Best Gourmet Adventure Destinations

1. Provence, France
   Also popularly known as cuisine du soleil et du Cœur – the cuisine of Sun and heart, this wonderful city of France lays and an extra emphasis on using age old recipes and cooking methods while only using locally grown produce. In this bright corner of France, your senses will be assailed with the aromas of fresh food, induced with herbs and olive oil.

2. New York City, USA
   Why travel all around the globe in search of delicious food? Sample great food from North and South America, Asia and Europe in this amazing city. All you need to do is make a trip to one of the ethnic neighborhoods and fully experience the culinary delights from exotic regions. From exclusive bakers in Greenwich Village to high class caviar shops upstate, there is something everywhere to tingle your taste buds.

3. Oaxaca, Mexico
   The state of Oaxaca (pronounced: wuh-HAH-kah) is the epicurean center of Mexico. Thousands of years of cooking traditions have blended with hundreds of years of Spanish influence to create a cuisine with a surprising mix of flavors here. You will be amazed at recipes which combine chili peppers and chocolate in one dish, using locally grown meat or fresh vegetables, all created with great care using traditional tools such as stone mortars and clay pots.

4. Bangkok, Thailand
   Emerging as one of the most exotic and diverse cuisine lands in the world, Bangkok offers cuisines from China, India, Malaysia and several other countries, prepared by ethnic minorities. Thai food is an explosion of smells and tastes, from hot to spicy, to sweet and sour to salty and sometimes bitter. Mostly two or more flavors are mixed well together, so that each dish is unique and tastes unlike anything else you would have experienced before.

5. Tuscany, Italy
   Drawing visitors from around the world, with its cuisine which is simple, fresh and tasty, Tuscany is home to some of the most pleasant food in the world. The best food is made from the very best seasonal produce, picked up fresh from the market. With a liberal use of herbs such as Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Basil, one thing is for sure, your food will always be fresh! Saltless Tuscan bread, tomatoes, beans, and, most importantly, extra virgin olive oil are elemental to most Italian meals here.

6. London, UK
   With over 6,000 eating joints in a single city, London ensures that there is just about everything you can possibly dream of in a single city. Informal and inventive dining seems to be the success mantra of most of the restaurants in London. Sumptuous meals combined with superb service is what you get in this cosmopolitan city.

7. Montjoi, Spain
   A beautiful view of Costa Brava and an exotic variety of cuisine, Montjoi is truly a great adventure for the traveling gourmet. Experiment with new tastes and techniques of cooking which come fresh from the backyards of restaurants.

8. Monaco
   Dine under the most opulent dining rooms with ornate frescos, extensive flower arrangements and crystal chandeliers. Taste the true Riviera cuisine of Limousin veal, Pyrenean Lamb, all decorated with amazing local herbs and breads. The experience of gourmet food in Monaco is quite unlike any other.