Travel Towards - Travel articles and information from around the world

South America comprises thirteen states, each offering a unique travel experience. The climate varies drastically from the tropical rain forests of the Amazon to the dry Atacama Desert.

It is a cradle of civilization where the early Mayan and Incan settlements originated and thrived in glory. Of the various tourist destinations in these states, lets look at the top 15 places that are a ‘must see’

The Amazon

Boat rides in the Amazon River; hikes, treks and canopy walk in the Amazon jungle are all great ways to soak in this great tropical rain forest area.

The Macchu Picchu

The ‘Old Peak’ located in Peru offers a glimpse of the early Incan civilization. In and around this area one could see the architectural remains of a well laid out Incan settlement, inclusive of roads, temples, sanctuaries and parks. It is a World Heritage Site.

Iguazu Falls

The Iguazu falls in Argentina is both taller and wider than the Niagra falls, shaped like a horseshoe with many cascading streams. It is a World Natural Heritage Site. The falls are a part of the Iguazu National Park, which offers activities like hiking, helicopter and boat rides to the falls.

Colca Canyon

Located in the Andes mountain ranges in Southern Peru, the Colca Canyon is one of the lesser-known canyons. It is the deepest Canyon in the world, deeper than the Grand Canyon and home to the Andean Condor, an endangered majest bird of prey.

Ecuador

The Equator passes through Ecuador and hence the name. The capital Quito has an Equatorial Monument which worth a visit. The Chimborzo national park houses Mount Chimborazo, the most distant point from the center of the earth.

Rio-de-Janiero

Rio in Brazil is well known for its carnival celebrations and beaches. The Copacabana beach, National Museum of Fine Arts, National Historical Museum and the Statue of Christ- The Redeemer are a few places to visit while in Rio.

Mount Cotopaxi

Mount Cotopaxi in the vicinity of Quito is claimed to be the highest active volcano in the world. It is almost a symmetrical cone with the top of the mountain being snow clad. 

The Galapagos Islands

Another World Heritage Site and a Biosphere reserve, the Galapagos Islands are home to variety of flora and fauna. Visited by a number of scientific expeditions, it is here that Charles Darwin conducted studies in Geology and Biology, which were crucial to his theory of ‘Natural Selection’.

Angel Falls

It is the world’s highest cascading waterfalls, located in the state of Venezuela. Plane sorties and boat trips are available for closer look at the waterfall.

Kaieteur Falls

It is a single waterfall on the Potaro River in Guyana. Located as part of Kaieteur National Park, it is in the midst of a tropical rain forest, and can be explored by land or by air.

Torres Del Paine

The Towers of Paine, in the Torres Del Paine National Park in Chile is a Biosphere Reserve. The park offers wonderful views of the ice-covered landscape. Tourists are allowed to hike and camp in the National Park.

Atacama Desert

The driest desert in the world, the landscape mostly lies in Chile but parts of it lie in other states of Argentina, Peru and Bolivia. San Pedro, an Oasis village is located in the desert, from where the neighbouring salt lakes, extinct volcanoes, geysers and the Chiu-Chiu lagoon can be accessed.

Jade Museum

The Jade Museum in San Jose, Costa Rica displays a huge collection of jade artefacts from the pre-columbian period. The Museum also has a wide collection of ceramic and terra-cota wares.

The Pampas

The grasslands of Argentina, with sprawling cattle ranches, are also well known for their agricultural produce. The Lihue Calel National Park gives a wonderful experience of the grasslands and the rugged terrain beyond the Pampass.

Acapulco

Acapulco is a popular resort on the pacific coast of Mexico. Its many beaches are worth exploring. At La Quebrada, watch the cliff divers dive into the sea from the surrounding cliff that is about 45 metres in height. 

South America offers a varied experience to the traveler. With climatic extremes, currency and language differences it is most suited for the more adventurous spirit.

The world of magic comes alive in Walt Disney World. With four fun theme parks and 2 water parks, there is something for every member of your group or family.

Theme Parks

Magic Kingdom
Follow your Disney dreams to a destination where storybook fantasy comes alive. Seek adventure and create memories to cherish for a long time. Play with your favorite story book characters and enjoy fun in a place where imagination reigns. Spend time with Buzz Light-year, or save the toy galaxy from the Evil Emperor Zurg! And if you’re tired of doing that just zoom into another galaxy aboard a thrilling high-speed roller coaster in Space Mountain.

Epcot
Get all of your friends and family together to see this small blue planet of ours in all its glory. Celebrate the rich diversity and experience the fascinating cultures and wonders from around the world as you are taken through a dazzling array of shows, interactive experiences and some awe inspiring attractions. Go on a brilliant new adventure with Nemo and his friends or take the Test Track discover if you are a perfect driver. Gather around the World Showcase Lagoon for a nighttime spectacular, filled with fireworks, a stunning soundtrack, and images to last forever in your mind.

Disney MGM Studios
Meet the world of cinema in all its fantastic glory. From the great Hollywood classics to modern day animation wonders, from rock ’n’ roll to fantasy to Broadway style spectaculars – be on the center stage of this adventure. See a spectacular Hollywood hotel made for the movie stars and suddenly plunge from a 13 floor elevator. Take a journey into the colorful imagination of Mickey Mouse, in a nighttime musical extravaganza filled with Disney characters.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park
The fine art of storytelling comes naturally to Disney, along with creating a world of fantasy, fun and lots of adventure. At the Animal Kingdom Park Hakuna Matata along with Simba and his pals of go on a fascinating ride through the Savannah with Kilimanjaro Safari. And if you get tired of that, just take a seat and enjoy Finding Nemo – The Musical!

Water Parks

Blizzard Beach
Once upon a time a great big winter storm chased through Florida and ended up creating a special resort for all those who love snow and water! Equipped with every single ride which you can dream of, Disney’s Blizzard Beach is the most slushy, slippery and exhilarating beach water park anywhere in the world! The Downhill Double Dipper and the Slush Gusher take you down the slippers slopes of Mount Gushmore as you scream into the fun filled day. You could also relax along the sooth waters of creek flowing all along the park or take the world’s longest raft ride down a curvy, slippery path.

Typhoon Lagoon
The remnants of a great typhoon which once rocked the seas, ended up creating a sprawling water resort completely equipped with every ride to make sure you have the time of your life. Twisting tides, roaring rapids, gorgeous waterways and relaxing rivers welcome you to Typhoon Lagoon. Slide down Mount Mayday at Humunga Kowabunga in super speed slides or go over board with a fun-filled inner tube ride in Mayday Falls, lots of water and great fun are just waiting for you.

The world of Walt Disney is enchanting and spell bounding for most, while everyone visits adventure land, there are several other entertaining places to see nearby. Below are the top 10 fun places near the Walt Disney World:

1) Capone’s Dinner & Show – Conjuring the dark Prohibition era of the 1920s and ’30s, Al Capone’s Infamous Underworld Cabaret will require you to come up with its secret password before you gain entry into this this brilliantly themed dinner show. While delicious food tingles your taste buds, watch performances like you’ve never seen and get waiters to serve you, while they are still a part of the performance!

2) Orlando Science Center – Come home to the largest science center in the Southeast, and explore everything from the fairly recent Florida swamps to the exotic arid plains of Mars or the human body. Watch large-format films at Cine Dome or delight at the beautiful galaxy with laser-light extravaganzas. Children can have fun in KidsTown, and discover a miniature version of the big world around them.

3) The Mall at Millenia – If glamour, high fashion and designer labels excite you, then The Mall at Millenia is the answer to your prayers. Offering the finest collection of luxury brands in Orlando, this mall creates a surreal experience for you to surround yourself in luxury.

4) Universal Orlando – Brace yourself for a heady ride full of action, thrills and excitement! The only Universal Studio in the world to have two amazing theme parks, non-stop nightlife and three world-class hotels, at a single location. Walk though lush tropical greenery or serene waterfalls or simply have some fun with Spiderman at the Superhero Island or run with the dinosaurs in the Jurassic Park!

5) Turkey Lake Park – A hip-scotch-jump from Universal Studio’s, lies a 300-acre oasis along the shores of Turkey Lake. Also known as the Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake, this beautifully landscaped and manicured park offers picnicking, hiking, biking, kiddie play areas and sandy “beaches” and a number of other fun activities.

6) Skull Kingdom – Are you one of those who wish that Halloween lasted all the year round? Well then a visit this two-story haunted castle for a quick shot of terror will do the trick for you. You’ll also find dark, creaky passageways, high-tech special effects, dank fog and mind-bending strobe lighting – highly recommended for everyone above the age of eight.

7) Pirate’s Dinner Adventure – For a fun filled family trip, hop on over to this dinner theater and be enthralled with the world of pirates sailing on mighty seas. As a host of talented actors, dances and acrobats entertain you aboard a scary pirate ship; enjoy limitless pot roast, chicken, cake and other mouth-watering goodies.

Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Orlando Museum - Stretching around the world with a network of 27 oddity museums, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not has got something fascinating for everyone. Housed in a disproportioned old Bavarian style building, The Orlando museum looks some part of it has disappeared into one of Florida’s infamous sinkholes. Seek oddities such as a statue of a 1,069-pound man, or a replica of a 1907 Rolls Royce built from more than a million matchsticks. And did we say that parking was free?!

9) Titanic, Ship of Dreams Exhibit – Held at the International Drive’s Mercado shopping center, the Titanic exhibit features over 200 amazing Titanic artifacts from a host of private collections around the world. See the costume worn by Leonardo Di Caprio in the museum as you’re guided through by interactive storytellers in period costume.

10) Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf – Hoist your sails and set forth on a journey for this spectacular pitch and putt course. With plenty of pirate references to amuse you, have fun at this golf course where playing golf is like walking the plank. And as you leave don’t forget to grab a handful of the free Pirate’s Cove stickers, plastic doubloon rings, and pirate flags.

10 Best Children’s Activities at Walt Disney World

Every one quite well know about Disney World’s amazing theme parks, but many are not familiar with the countless number of fascinating activities which are there for children at Walt Disney World. Some of these offers are complimentary while some are offered at a reasonable fee. Listed below are some of the 10 best:

1. Kid’s Fishing Excursion. One hour fishing trips just for children are available at resorts like Marinas of Disney’s Contemporary, Beach Club, Yacht, Polynesian and Boardwalk Inn and Villas. If you want your kid to enjoy miles of shore fishing then its best to head to Disney’s Ft. Wilderness where cane poles and rods and reels may be rented at the Bike Barn in the Meadow Recreation Area.
2. Enjoy the Old West. Each evening from Pioneer Hall at Fort Wilderness there are hayrides which are a 45-minute trip. Very disciplined, cowboy guided trail rides are also offered or you can opt for a $2 pony ride at the Fort Wilderness Petting Farm. The fare for Hayrides are $8 for an adult and $4 for a child.
3. Sing-Along in Front of the Campfire. Families gather round the campfire each evening at Ft. Wilderness for a sing-along, marshmallow roast, and a Disney animated movie. This is a complimentary package to all Walt Disney World resort guests.
4. Attend a Children’s Tea Party. A tea party at wonderland happens from Monday through Friday at 1:30 P.M. at the 1900 Park Fare at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. This tea party is hosted by characters like Alice, the kids play games, listen to stories and get to drink apple tea. It is strictly for children in the age group of 3 to 10.
5. Watch the Electrical Water Show Parade. Every night on the Seven Seas Lagoon is a delightful 1000 foot string of illuminated barges featuring King Neptune and his court of whales, deadly sea serpents, and other deep-sea creatures. The free show can be seen from the beaches of Disney’s Polynesian, Grand Floridian, Contemporary, and Wilderness Lodge Resorts.
6. A Ride with the Monorail Driver. Simply ask any of the cast members present on duty. I am sure they will be happy to oblige as long as the front car is empty.
7. Take a Spin on a Watermouse Boat. You could rent one of these two-seater mini-power boats and zip around one of Disney’s lakes at 22 miles per hour. Kids would enjoy the ride. Please note your child has to be 12 years or older and at least 5 feet tall to drive one of these boats without adult supervision.
8. A dive into one of Disney’s marvelous themed Pools. Children’s favorites is the Volcano Pool at Disney’s Polynesian Resort featuring a smoking volcano slide, underwater music, and sparkling waterfall, all with a superb view of the Seven Seas Lagoon. The watery delight includes sandy bottom pools, a giant shipwreck waterslide, bubbling hot tubs, a kids pool with its own slide next to the beach.
9. Search for Buried Treasure on a Pirate’s Cruise. This is available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursday for children between the ages of 3 to10 years. The kids sail from the dock of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort to a deserted island which is supervised and is for 2 hours. The fee also includes snacks, bandanas and hidden treasure which goes to the child who finds it.
10. Take a Meal with a famous Character. These are extremely popular opportunities for your children to dine with your favorite Disney characters. This attraction is offered at both the Disney theme parks and resort hotels. Characters walk around the room, stop at each table to interact with guests, pose for photos and sign autographs.

The Magic Kingdom along with the resorts was started in the year 1967 by The Walt Disney Company following the death of Walt Disney. Although the initial idea was to make the park similar to the existing Disneyland in California but Magic Kingdom was built on a larger area. The Magic Kingdom is inspired by Disneyland’s design.

Walt Disney was not fortunate to live long enough to see the park. He died on December 15th, 1966. His brother Roy O. Disney took over the responsibility of creating the park. The completion of the park became his passion and he continued with his brother’s legacy. The name of Disney World was changed to Walt Disney World in order to honor his brother. Roy O. Disney died two months after the opening of the park on December 20th, 1971.

Walt Disney once saw a Frontierland cowboy walking through Tomorrowland at Disneyland and he wanted to get rid of this factor that had been ruining the illusion. So in order to improve this, The Magic Kingdom was built over a series of tunnels, called Utilidors. Due to the water table being close to the surface in Florida, it was impossible to build underground. This was why the Utilidors are the first floor of the park and the rest of the park is regarded as the second or third floor.

After the construction of the utilidors, the space has been filled with dirt and sand dredged up from the bottom of Bay Lake when it was drained. The sand from the bottom of the lake has been used to line the lake and build the beaches. The hard clay also fills the area and has been a problem with plants planted around the park. Actually the park is only 14 feet above the sea level but thanks to the Utilidors, which facilitates the cast members to walk from one side to the other side of the park within 10 minutes without being noticed by the Guests.

Although The Magic Kingdom was based on the Disneyland in California but not much has been duplicated. Majority of the things at the Magic Kingdom are superiorly designed from Disneyland. For example the castle is in Magic Kingdom being 189 feet is over 100 feet taller than the one in Walt Disney World. In order to promote the major differences between Disneyland and the new park, Country Bear Jamboree, Liberty Square, Hall of Presidents, Space Mountain, 20,000 Leagues under the Sea and Mickey Mouse Revue were opened first at the Magic Kingdom.

Top 10 destinations around the world

1. Paris : Known as the glamour capital of the world, Paris is also the capital of France. Situated along the banks of the river Seine, this picturesque city is also one of the most romantic cities in the world. A popular tourist destination, Paris is an all time favorite. Owing to its 17^th century buildings which add an old world charm to the city, the famous Eiffel tower and the stunning Notre Dam Cathedral, Paris is a must see city on any world tourist’s list. Paris is also the home of Mona Lisa, the most famous painting in the world.
2. Rome : The historic city of Rome has seen it all. From brutal murders to magnificent art, from being burnt down to ashes to being resurrected as the home of some of the bravest men in the world. Gaze at the opulence of the Vatican or look at the works of the great masters of art such as Michelangelo or Leonardo Da Vinci, or just have a smooth latte at one of the open air cafés. Don’t forget to visit the mighty Colosseum while you’re there.
3. Egypt : The cradle of civilization, Egypt is also known as the eternal city of life. From the sky high pyramids to the sheer grandiose of its art and culture, this city by the Nile is breathtaking in every aspect. While most tourists prefer a camel ride up to the Pyramids, a must do activity is to take a cruise along the Nile – the largest river on the face of Earth.
4. Mexico : If knowing world cultures is your things, then Mexico is a must visit destination for you. Colors, sounds, sights and lots of spice characterize Mexico. Home to the ancient Mayan civilization, picturesque natural surroundings make this destination a must. The immense variety of natural wonders, lush green forests, white sand beaches and rich epicurean delights will tempt you into spending more time here than you originally desired.
5. Peru : Wander along the colonial wonders that echo the Spanish conquests. Explore the ancient Inca civilization, or visit the lost city of Machu Picchu – also one the wonders of the modern world. Peru offers enigma and mysticism and lots of mystery for the seasoned world traveler.
6. Japan : Whether you buy a miniature Eiffel tower or contemplate in a Zen temple or just spend time in a luxury resort, Japan can only best be experienced if you have an open mind and are willing to be surprised. The gracefulness and humility of the Japanese or in the unexpected vibrant colors of the rural festivals, everyone ultimately finds their own version of this beautiful country.
7. Thailand : Drawing more number of visitors to its doors than any other city in southeast Asia, the Kingdom of Thailand is an irresistible combination of unique culture, huge bio diversity, inspiring temples, renowned hospitality and a multifarious cuisine. From the lush green mountains of Mae Hong Son or the limestone islands of the Andaman Sea or the pulse setting nightclubs of Bangkok, there is something for every kind of traveler in this country.
8. India : A land of extremes, India will make sure that it changes the way you look at the world. One of the most dramatic countries on this planet, India will set your pulse racing with its rich heritage, white sand beaches, dizzying Himalayan peaks or just the mystical holy rivers. Nothing in this country is ever predictable and you must expect the unexpected each time. India is a test for the most seasoned traveler, many of whom leave with memories of a lifetime or some who just spend their lifetime discovering the wonders of this country.
9. Turkey : A rapidly modernizing country, Turkey is a spicy storm of ancient heritage knocking against the doors of the present. Experience the oriental splendor, whirling dervishes, mystery and lots of intrigue in this country, as you taste a cuisine to die for or gaze at the famous blue mosques dotted against the landscape.
10. United States of America : Home to some of the most exciting cities, some amazing landscapes and a rich diverse culture, the United States of America is one of the famous tourist destinations in the world. Home to Hollywood and its many wondrous celebrities, lots of glitz and glamour, immense heroism, some of the most legendary thinkers and innovators of our time, USA offers great hospitality for travelers from around the world.

Disneyland is located in Anaheim, California while the Magic Kingdom is in Buena Vista, Florida near Orlando. Disneyland was opened in the year 1955 while the Magic Kingdom was first opened in the year 1971.Before going to both these theme parks I heard a lot of things people had to say about the two. But after visiting them, these are my findings on the main difference between the two parks.

• Disneyland is a little smaller than The Magic Kingdom. Disneyland is spread over 85 acres of land whereas The Magic Kingdom is on 107 acres.
• The Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland is much smaller than Cinderella’s Castle at The Magic Kingdom. The sleeping beauty castle is 77 feet tall while Cindrella’s castle is 189 feet tall.
• The Monorail at Disneyland just takes you from Disneyland to Downtown Disney. While at the Magic Kingdom it takes you from the Transportation Ticket Centre to the Epcot passing through The Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. The Monorail at Disneyland is smaller in height as compared to the one at Magic Kingdom.
• You will not find Frontierland at Disneyland in its actual place or where you would expect it to be; in fact it is in the area occupied by Liberty Square in Magic Kingdom.
• Disneyland’s Pirates of the Caribbean is located in New Orleans Square while at the Magic Kingdom it is found in Adventureland.
• At both parks, Splash Mountain is located in almost the same place, but at Disneyland that area has an additional piece of land which is called Critter Country.
• The many adventures of Winnie the Pooh version are better at the Magic Kingdom than at Disneyland. At Magic Kingdom it’s longer, the ceilings are higher and the hunny pots bounce with a trigger.
• Downtown Disney at Disneyland, California is smaller than the one in Orlando.
• In Disneyland the buildings on “Main Street” are not as tall as the ones in the Magic Kingdom.
• Many of the rides at Disneyland, especially in Fantasyland, has dummy ride vehicles outside the buildings where you could get yourself photographed in them. This feature is not there at the Magic Kingdom

On the whole both the theme parks offer almost the same attraction, services and features except for in a few cases.

French Polynesia is a French overseas collection of many islands in the southern Pacific Ocean. It is a French territory but you will feel like you are in another era and another location altogether because of its rich and exotic beauty. The most famous and most populous island in the French Polynesia is Tahiti.

Its 240 kms north-west of Papeete and takes around 45 minutes by plane to reach.

This island shows a real harmony of colors, with its dazzling lagoons which appear mixed in blues and turquoises and a barrier reef. Its stylishly erosed volcano remains rising to two peaks and the beat of the local music will satisfy your sense of esthetism. The island is completely dependent on tourism. The island has seven resorts which are built on small islands surrounding the lagoons. These resorts offer luxurious services at par with anywhere in the world. You could also find spacious over-the-water bungalows which offer a dazzling view of the mountains and lagoons.

Another famous attraction on Huahine is the bridge that crosses over a stream with 3 to 6 foot long eels. These eels are deemed sacred by the locals. At Huahine you will also find a very good hotel and bungalows on its white sand beaches. On the southern coast of the island, there’s another superb hotel. Here you can take a bath, a sunbath or take a dive in the pool.

Somewhat smaller than Tahiti, Raiatea is the second largest amongst all the Islands. Tahaa is slightly smaller and less populated than Raiatea. Tahaa offers a wonderful lagoon which is rich in sea-life and for water sports activities like yachting, windsurfing, scubadiving. These two islands are some of the French Polynesia’s undiscovered treasurers. These two fascinating islands offer a vacationer the experience of a true and perfect French Polynesia holiday.

Raiatea means bright sky. The chief town on Raiatea is Uturoa. The islands of Raiatea and Tahaa are both connected by the same coral reef, and may have once been a single island.

The Islands of Raiatea and Tahaa hold a lot of fascinating history and myth as well as Tahiti’s most significant archeological sites. Both Islands are also flooded with Pearl farms which are known for their superb quality, high artistic appeal, and value.

A precise planning is required for a trip to Walt Disney World. It is always advisable to know as much as possible from guidebooks, friends, Disney regulars, websites and message boards in order to plan your visit perfectly and to enjoy the trip to the fullest.A surprise planning for your near and dear ones to visit Walt Disney World can be one of the best gifts ever given to them. Disney trip planning should be done on a regular basis with preparation of check lists, search for discount codes and picking appropriate dates to make priority settings. The planning should also look into the weather criteria and the time of visit to avoid crowds.

Advice that I followed and did click:

Early Booking: In order to get the room of your choice within your budget, it is always advisable to book rooms at the resort or hotel early.

Discount Watch: Keeping a watch on the discounts provided on different websites allows you to pick the best bargain for your money.

Car Services: Booking car services avoid the painstaking search for directions on the Local map. It’s always better to have a driver who has been there frequently and knows the roads better.

Preference for unlimited refill mugs at the Hotel: This facility entitles regular servings of soda, coffee, iced tea and hot chocolate.

Schedule for early entry days: A week long schedule for early entry days allows more fun and attendance in scheduled events such as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom and also chance are their for you to grab the difficult Cinderella’s breakfast.

Down time planning: If you are planning to stay bit longer then with the earned tickets for some of the night time extras such as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Cirque du Soleil you can plan to relax by the pool and also schedule character breakfasts.

Notification of Birthday’s and/or Anniversary: While making your reservations and purchasing of the tickets make the personnel aware of birthdays and/or anniversary. The Cast members surprise you with cup cakes and regular wishes. You might be lucky to get a personal wish from Mickey Mouse and deserts served by Cinderella.

Some advice that didn’t click:

Don’t plan more than two or three character meals for a week-long trip. To make the trip enjoyable to the fullest you might plan for almost every day. Enjoy the attractions at the Park more and also reduced the time consumed in seeing the characters and autographs.

Follow the touring plans in the guide books. Instead of following the guide book for the first few rides it is always advisable to plan a list of rides to be taken on a day. This would allow planning each of the rides in the list and experiencing more rides and attractions.

Relax through the Down time: Instead of trying to plan for more character meals take a break. A number of character meals might make the down days hectic and spoil your visit to the park. Take some time out and relax by the poolside, visit restaurants or take long naps.