Friday, January 29, 2010

Athens - Cradle of Civilisation


Greece is ancient, classical and modern with breathtaking scenery, sparkling seas, beautiful islands and picturesque coastlines. The Gods chose this land as their home and Greece lures travellers from all over the world. Its history, mythology and beauty combine to make it an experience visitors will never forget. Located at the tip of the Balkan Peninsula, Greece is divided into continental Greece and its many islands located in the Ionian Sea on the west coast or in the Aegean Sea between Greece and Turkey. The sea is never far away in Greece and has had a profound influence on its history and way of life. Greece is the 12th member of the EU (European Economic and Monetary Union) and is considered the origin of Western civilisation, the birthplace of Democracy and the Olympic games.

Athens is the Capital of Greece, a large modern city that dates back to the dawn of civilisation. The sprawling city is bounded on three sides by mountains with the Acropolis and Lycabettus being the most prominent hills. Visitors must explore the Acropolis with its main attraction of the Parthenon, the Olympic Stadium, Temple of Zeus and the ancient marketplace of the Plaka. Piraeus, the port of Athens, is where visitors can start their exploration of the Greek islands. The most popular Greek islands are Mykonos, Santorini, Rhodes, Corfu and Crete.

Sunday, January 10, 2010

Viva Las Vegas


Las Vegas is the largest city in the state of Nevada with a population of over 500,000 people. The city has become a stand-alone holiday destination in its own right with many amazing hotel and casino complexes located along the famous Las Vegas Boulevard or “The Strip”. Many of the hotels have created a fantasy-like atmosphere with names and themes that evoke romance, mystery, and far-away destinations. The spectacle of the lights, neon signs, casinos and the fabulous luxury themed hotels have to be seen to be believed, especially from the top of the Stratosphere Tower which is more than 110 levels high.

Las Vegas boomed following the construction of the Hoover Dam in 1928, which brought thousands of workers to the area, and provided electricity and water for the city. In 1931, when Nevada legalised gambling, downtown Las Vegas became an entertainment center for the dam workers with casinos, hotels, bars and restaurants.

Today, Las Vegas has become an international center for gaming, tourism and corporate conventions. The “Entertainment Capital of the World” also boasts some of the biggest names and stage productions in entertainment including music stars, magicians and the Cirque du Soleil productions. And just a few hours away there is one of the natural wonders of the world—the Grand Canyon.

Even if you are not a gambler there is a lot to do in Las Vegas!