Solo Travel Destinations, New Places to Travel Alone Part 8 - Ecuador

Ecuador is off the typical tourist track but still presents multiple vacation options. The Pacific Coast provides relaxing beaches while the Amazon allows for combining ecotourism with active sports from hikes to whitewater rafting/kayaking in Tena. Lastly, for history buffs, both Quito's old town and Cuenca give a glimpse into Ecuador's colonial past.

Eclipsed by higher profile South American tourist destinations, such as Chile, Argentina, and Brazil, Ecuador borders on Colombia and Peru. It is a relatively small country, approximately the size of the US state of Colorado. Notwithstanding the latter, Ecuador, with eleven national parks, has varied terrain from its western coast to rainforest and majestic mountain peaks/volcanoes, including well-known Cotopaxi and Tungurahua. As to indoor activities, besides museums and architectural sites, for those who like to shop, Ecuador, the home of the "Panama" hat, offers an array of goods to purchase from silver and leather to local handicrafts.

An Andean nation, Ecuador's capital, Quito, was one of the original UNESCO World Heritage Sites. At more than 9,000 feet above sea level, Quito has a temperate climate earning it the name of the "city of eternal spring" although it lies just 15 miles south of the Equator. The second largest city in the country, it still retains a well-preserved old town centered around La Plaza Grande and containing the Palacio del Gobierno and cathedral. Nearby is another top sight: the San Francisco Monastery.

Beyond such traditional tourists' spots, the city, itself, includes great vistas from the hilltops in residential neighborhoods. Tucked nearby are many informal, neighborhood restaurants.

Ecuador's Pacific Coast is dominated by its largest city and major port, Guayaquil. With its riverside boardwalk, Malecón 2000, featuring multiple restaurants and shops and its contrasting nature and eco-preserves, Guayaquil is more than just the launch pad for points west. In addition to its 21st century offerings, its "La Rotonda" adds historical context as it commemorates the meeting of South America's two most famous liberators, San Martin and Simon Bolivar.

As noted, Guayaquil is also a major departure point for those westward bound primarily heading to Ecuador's Galapagos Islands, 600 miles at sea. Named for the large tortoises found there, the Islands have a colorful history having been partially populated by pirates four centuries ago. In contrast, today they are a popular destination for ecotourism. The number of rare species of animals and plants are the major draw which in the early 19th century prompted a visit by Charles Darwin. Restrictions apply in keeping with conservation efforts so you must plan ahead to join one of the small boat tours.

Cuenca, Ecuador's third largest city, still bears the imprint of the past with cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. However, its most noteworthy public building dates from more recent times. The large multi-domed "New Cathedral" was completed in the 20th Century while the "Old Cathedral" now serves as a museum.

Close by Cuenca is the Ecuadorian Amazon which spans six provinces. Tours frequently start at Baños for visitors in search of pink dolphins, howler monkeys, three-toed sloths and oversized rodents.

Overall, an Ecuadorian vacation offers something for everyone from leisurely historical and cultural tours to active more adventurous outdoor sports and ecotours at an affordable price. In addition, Ecuador's distinct weather zones provide a choice for those who like the tropics to head for the beaches or rainforest or for those who want to flee the heat to enjoy Quito's moderate climate. Lastly, Ecuador has retained the distinct flavor of the Andean region while still being accessible to international travelers.

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5 Best Places to Travel in Your Lifetime

Tourism can be fun and an adventure of a lifetime. Spending quality time with the family at one of the world's best places can be fun too. If you are planning your next vacation and looking for popular travel places, here is a list of the 5 best places to travel in the world.

The Great Barrier Reef

This is the greatest coral reef ecosystem of the world and one of the best places to travel to in Australia. This coral reef ecosystem is made up of living organisms and supports well over 10,000 species which includes 1500 different kinds of fish.

The South Island Of New Zealand

This part of New Zealand is known for large beach forests, broad plains, golden sandy beaches, spectacular fjords and is characterized by impressive open landscapes. The south Island is one of the best places to travel in your lifetime because it attracts thousands of people. It has 10 national parks which incorporate lakes, fjords, coastlines, world heritage sites, superior hiking tracks, native forests and glaciers.

The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is one of the best places to travel in the world. It is a steep sided gorge which is carved by the Colorado River in the State of Arizona in the United States of America. Each year, close to 5 million tourists visit this destination. Summer, mild spring and fall are the best time to visit this place and there are many people who also believe that this place is worth visiting during the winter as well.

Cape Town

Cape Town, which is situated right at the peak of the African Continent, is one of the best places to travel for vacation. Here, you will get a chance to experience a unique range of scenic national surroundings and multicultural lifestyles on your own. This travel destination is filled with tourists during the summer who come to enjoy its hot weather, beautiful scenery and sunny beaches. Being one of the best places in the world, it is often crowded with tourists and therefore it is always important to make prior reservations before visiting.

Canadian Rockies

Canadian Rockies is among the best travel places in the world that you can visit in your lifetime. This travel destination has numerous outdoor opportunities, world class resorts, national parks and many more highlights. The best time to visit the place is during winter because it is then that you can enjoy sports such as skiing and snowshoeing.

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Goa Panjim Travel - Typical Goan Town

Panjim is a typical Goan Town located on the banks of river Mandovi. This is third largest city and the capital town of Goa state. It is one of the prominent tourist attractions which is visited by number of tourists across the year. This town has some beautiful Portuguese Baroque style buildings and enchanting old villas which are among the major attractions of this place. The centre of attractions of this place revolves around beautiful beaches, magnificent churches, vibrant carnivals and scenic natural beauty. Some of the best known attractions of this place are:

Dona Paula:

It is the place where two most important rivers of Goa meet the Arabian Sea. This secluded bay is a favourite retreat for relaxing and sunbathing. This is most popular among all the beaches of Goa which is set beside the scenic location that make it popular place of attractions for the Goa visitors. The scenic location of this place makes it favoured destination for shooting of Bollywood movies that popularises it among tourists. This place offers some of the best water sports facilities that attract numbers of water lovers for enjoying the thrill of Motor-boat rides, Water Scooting, Para Gliding and many more.

Fontainhas:

Known for its old Portuguese charm, this place is located west of the Ourem River, near the hill of Altinho. It is located amidst several fountains which gave it its name. It is known for the mesmerising beauty of tiny overhanging balconies of terra cotta tiled houses, narrow cobbled streets with red, blue, yellow, green buildings with shuttered windows which gives the feeling of engrained Portuguese culture in life style of people residing here. The undistinguished beauty of this place attracts numbers of tourists from several parts of the globe.

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary:

It is located on the island of Chorao along the Mandovi River which is known for its varieties of local as well migratory birds. It is named after the Indian's known ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali. Thick mangrove vegetation make it a perfect place for birds habitat. Numbers of tourists throng this place to see diverse beauty of flora and fauna. This Bird Sanctuary is an ornithologist paradise and a favourite haunt of migratory birds.

Goa is a coastal paradise of India which is known for its turquoise beaches, silvery sand, fabulous flora and fauna. This is an international known tourist destination which is visited by numbers of people from various parts of the globe. Some of the other known attractions of Panjim areHanuman temple, Mahalaxmi temple, Jama Maszid, Safa Shahouri Masjid and Jain temple.

The eclectic composition of the sun, sand and sea makes Goa Holiday indelible from visitors memory. This place is known across the world for its natural panorama, delectable cuisine, eclectic carnival and age old monuments. Out of the several visiting places, tourists give priority to Panjim Travel Tour due to its enchanting locations and mesmerising beauty.

Great Places to Visit in Cape Town

Cape Town is the second most populated city in South Africa. It is also the largest South African city area wise, and is the nation's legislative capital as well. Best known for its superb ambience and scenic beauty, this jewel of South Africa has turned into one of the hottest tourist hubs in the world. With diverse natural forms from beaches to plateaus, the city is indeed a must visit for globe trotters from across the world. With a Dutch history behind it, Cape Town is a cosmopolitan city with diverse ethnicity and culture among its residents.

One of the first places that one can explore is the large number of diverse beaches. Cape Town houses beaches of various kinds. This is possible due to the different climatic conditions that prevail in the separate parts of the city. The paradise setting and the white sands transport tourist to a far away world. The amazing views coupled with the azure waters make the beaches its prime attraction. Relax, get a tan or indulge in some beach volleyball games. The one thing assured is that the amazing beaches leave you spoilt for choice regarding what to indulge in on a trip.

Kirstenbosch is a landmark that must not be missed on a trip to Cape Town. The botanical garden is renowned across the world. Home to an amazing variety of flora, the gardens are well-maintained. The gardens are perfectly manicured and a national treasure to the city of Cape Town. If you are lucky enough to visit between December and March, you may get to experience the unique sunset concerts conducted at this hotspot. The range and types of flowers on display leave any tourist wide-eyed!

In Cape Town, you cannot dare miss-out on the V & A Waterfront. It is the most crowded tourist spot in the city. The setting itself escalates this spot to the highest rank. The Table Land looms over and the tranquil Table Bay flows around the waterfront. Indulge in mere gazing, shopping, sipping juices and boating trips. The V and A Waterfront is one harbor that has a lot to offer all those who wish to dock up. Cape Town culture is well represented with this tourist hub.

The Two Oceans Aquarium is an added attraction at the Waterfront. If you are booked on a tour to, make sure you book a trip to the Aquarium soon. Meet the aquatic fauna up close at the Aquarium. From sharks to seahorses, from clown fishes to baby octopuses; the collection is amazing. The Kelp Forest Exhibit is one unique attraction that is an added reason why visitors flock to the Aquarium. Browse the official website to book tours online as well as update yourself on the timings of the various exhibits.

Cape Town offers delights for all lovers of history as well. With a rich heritage behind it, the Rhodes Memorial Monument is one of the more popular tourist attractions in Cape Town. Built as a memorial to the famous Cecil Rhodes, the Monument is situated on the famous Devil's Peak. This is a point of interest for casual tourists as well as for trekkers and hikers. The landmark is surrounded by an animal reserve as well. Feel at one with the struggle that the Cape Colony Prime minister went through, at the monument. The amazing amalgamation of attractions is sure to leave one gasping for breath. Gobble in all that your eyes can, as Cape Town promises to make you miss it as soon as the trip is over. Good luck!

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South African Garden Route Knysna Town Travel Information

The town of Knysna is along the Garden Route in South Africa between Mossel Bay and Storms River, the Garden Route runs parallel to a coastline which features lakes, mountains, golden beaches, cliffs and dense indigenous forests.

The Garden Route has a Mediterranean Maritime climate, with moderately hot summers, and mild to chilly winters. It is one of the richest rainfall areas, most of which occurs in the winter months, brought by the humid sea-winds from the Indian ocean.

This natural wonderland is home to the largest and smallest of creatures, from the Knysna seahorse to the Knysna elephants, rare delicate butterflies and the endemic Knysna Loerie, a colourful forest bird. Over 200 species can be found in the abundant fynbos and forest settings. Knysna is also famous for its delectable homegrown oysters, enjoyed with locally brewed beer in quaint pubs and restaurants. An eclectic mix of art galleries showcases the diversity of talent in the area. The area also offers lagoon cruises, forest hikes, golf and adventure sports. A visit to the Knysna Quays is a must.

Any time of the year is good for visiting the area, depending if you enjoy a peaceful retreat during the winter months, or a bustling holiday destination during the summer.

The name Knysna is a Khoi word but it's uncertain as to its exact meaning. It could mean 'place of wood', or it could mean 'fern leaves', but its most probable meaning is straight down' - an obvious reference to the Heads. Knysna Heads must be the most striking geological features along the entire southern African coastline. They flank a deep but potentially treacherous channel through which the sea pours in to flood the wide and breathtakingly pretty lagoon at the mouth of the Knysna River.

Knysna's history began in the year 1804, the year that saw the arrival of George Rex, rumoured to be the illegitimate son of King George lll. He purchased the estate known as Melkhoutkraal on the shores of the lagoon and moved his entire family and considerable entourage down to Knysna to settle.

Knysna is one of the Southern Cape coast's best known holiday destinations, situated between lush forests and the shores of the peaceful lagoon - it offers many activities and attractions of a wide variety.

The most well known attraction being the heads - two great sandstone cliffs guarding the mouth of the lagoon which connects the estuary with the sea.

A lookout has been erected on the Eastern Head, commanding spectacular views of the lagoon, Leisure Isle and Knysna. The Western Head is a privately owned nature Reserve - Featherbed Bay. The Knysna Lagoon is one of the few places along the coast and in the world that supports a oyster hatchery. And the Knysna oysters are reputedly among the tastiest in the world.

Millwood House Museum in Queen Street houses material relating to the history of the town, and includes artifacts once owned by George Rex. It was built from yellowwood at the end of the previous century during the gold rush. From Millwood, it was later moved to Knysna.

Knysna has many attractions in the surrounding area as well, one of the most spectacular being the Knysna Forest, which is still evident in many places within the town as well. It is the largest indigenous forest in South Africa comprising of tall and ancient trees of local and exotic species, including stinkwood, yellowwood, blackwood, ironwood, white alders and Cape chestnut. Not forgetting the ferns, creepers and wild flowers which add colour to this endless green collage. The forest is vast and extremely dense in places making it impenetrable.

Animal life is limited to a few small antelope and a large variety of birds, such as the famous Knysna Loerie. Home to the once great herds of Knysna Elephants, it is believed that only one lonely cow remains today.

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Gerald Crawford was born in South Africa, studied electronics, telecommunication, eco-travel and african travel concepts. He taught responsible tourism in South Africa. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me on. E-mail Address: southafricantravelarticles@12234455.co.za Website Address: http://www.12234455.co.za

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Your Sri Lanka Travel Itinerary - The Finest Places and Events

Because of Sri Lanka's scenic islands, so many visitors from around the world have been attracted to this country. It is a land undeniably endowed with natural resources and is one of the most visited destinations globally. The Sri Lanka map, which forms a shape of a teardrop, is placed in the Indian Ocean nearly at the tip of the Indian peninsular mainland.

Sri Lanka is really one of the most amazing countries in the world. It has marvelous waterfalls, tropical rainforests, and vast mountain scenery. It has become a famous destination with so many tourists staying in holiday villas with self-catering holiday apartments. Sri Lanka is indeed a country blessed with ancient cities, white sandy beaches, lush greenery, attractive landscapes, and very hospitable people. Here are some of the finest places and events that should be included in your sri lanka travel itinerary:

Sinhala Kings - Its most beautiful town, the stronghold of the Sinhala Kings, is Sri Lanka's hill capital. It rises up to 488 meters above the level of the sea and it is located next to Colombo as its most visited places. The town's center of attraction is the Dalada Maligawa, which is golden-roofed. It is the sole place wherein the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha is preserved. As of now, restorations are underway by the UNESCO and the Central Cultural Fund.

Esala Perahera - The Esala Perahera, the year's highlight, is when a model of the historical object casket is brought in procession escorted with exotically costumed dancers, Sri Lankan drummers, and almost 100 elephants in ten bright nights during the months of July and August.

Kalapuraya - The Kalapuraya, located in the wonderful Dumbara valley which is 8 km off Kandy, is where many descendants of the ancient craftsmen up to now create items of unimaginable elegance in wood and metal. Once you visit Kandy, you will see several temples and ancient shrines with frescoes, wood and stone inscriptions and unique paintings.

City of Gems - another famous destination in Sri Lanka is the "City of Gems", which is the center of gemming industry. The gems created in it include gems like garnet, zircon, aquamarine, tourmaline, topaz, amethyst, ruby, alexandrite, cat's eye, and sapphire. The tourist visits to Sri Lanka's gem mines may be guided and arranged by its travel agents. The various and exquisite gem collections can be seen and visited at the National Museum, Ratnapura and in private museums.

Bentota - the town of Bentota is located 25 kms south of Kalutara. Bentota is a city in Sri Lanka famous for golden beaches and is proud for having many world-class hotels. It is located at the southern coastal end of the Southern Province's Galle District and is as well a very popular tourist attraction.

Sri Lanka is included in the list of wonderful countries that always provide a warm welcome to its visitors and provide them so many chances to explore the island's hidden treasures. Apart from being known for beach holidays, tourists have found other places of interest in Sri Lanka. The visitors are always filled with a unique experience with its rich culture, historic temples, and stunning sceneries.

You can look around the internet for ideas and arrangement if you want to plan your Sri Lanka travel itinerary. Otherwise, let the professional handle it for you.

Peter Murillo is an independent travel consultant specialized in custom and tailor made tours for Thailand and Sri Lanka. Whether you want a luxurious itinerary or budget package, I can work something out for you.