Page not found – A2z Camera Blog https://www.a2zcamerablog.com Mon, 25 Mar 2024 06:34:49 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.25 Geography of Hancock County, Mississippi https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/geography-of-hancock-county-mississippi/ Thu, 14 Mar 2024 07:45:08 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8442 Hancock County, located in the southern part of the state of Mississippi, is a region characterized by its diverse geography, coastal beauty, and rich natural resources. Encompassing an area of approximately 474 square miles, Hancock County is known for its scenic coastline, marshlands, and numerous waterways. In this comprehensive overview, we’ll explore the geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other notable features of Hancock County, Mississippi. Check deluxesurveillance to learn more about the state of Mississippi.

Geography:

Hancock County is situated on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi, bordered by Pearl River County to the north, Harrison County to the east, and the state of Louisiana to the west. The county is part of the Mississippi Gulf Coast region and includes several cities and towns, including the county seat of Bay St. Louis and the city of Waveland.

The landscape of Hancock County is diverse, encompassing a mix of coastal plains, marshlands, pine forests, and barrier islands. The county’s geography is shaped by its location along the Gulf of Mexico and its proximity to the Mississippi Sound, which influences its climate, weather patterns, and ecology.

Climate:

Hancock County experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The county’s climate is influenced by its coastal location, as well as its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and the Mississippi Sound.

Summer temperatures in Hancock County can be warm, with daytime highs typically ranging from the 80s to the 90s Fahrenheit (around 27 to 35 degrees Celsius). Humidity levels are often high during the summer months, contributing to occasional thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.

Winter temperatures in Hancock County are mild, with daytime highs typically ranging from the 50s to the 60s Fahrenheit (around 10 to 20 degrees Celsius). Nighttime lows rarely drop below freezing, with temperatures typically staying above the 40s Fahrenheit (around 4 to 9 degrees Celsius).

Precipitation in Hancock County is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly higher rainfall totals in the summer months due to the influence of tropical weather systems. The county receives an average of around 60 to 70 inches of precipitation annually.

Rivers and Lakes:

Hancock County is home to several rivers, creeks, and bayous that play a vital role in its geography, ecology, and economy.

The Pearl River forms part of the county’s northern border with Pearl River County and serves as an important waterway for transportation, recreation, and commerce. The Pearl River and its tributaries provide habitat for a diverse array of fish, wildlife, and plant species.

Another important waterway is the Jourdan River, which flows through the central part of the county before emptying into the Mississippi Sound. The Jourdan River and its tributaries provide additional opportunities for outdoor recreation and contribute to the county’s natural beauty.

Hancock County is also home to several lakes and ponds, including Lake Catherine, Bayou Portage, and Bayou LaCroix, which provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities. These lakes and ponds also serve as important habitats for wildlife and contribute to the county’s biodiversity.

Coastline and Barrier Islands:

Hancock County boasts a scenic coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, featuring miles of sandy beaches, dunes, and coastal marshes. The county is also home to several barrier islands, including Cat Island, Ship Island, and Horn Island, which offer opportunities for swimming, fishing, and beachcombing.

Ship Island, in particular, is a popular tourist destination known for its historic fortifications, pristine beaches, and clear blue waters. The island is accessible by ferry from Gulfport and offers visitors opportunities for picnicking, birdwatching, and exploring the island’s natural and cultural heritage.

Wetlands and Wildlife:

Hancock County is home to extensive wetlands and marshlands, which provide habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species. The county’s wetlands are vital to the health of the region’s ecosystem, providing flood protection, water filtration, and habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife.

The Mississippi Coastal Preserve, located in Hancock County, encompasses thousands of acres of wetlands, marshes, and coastal habitats. The preserve provides opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife viewing, with trails winding through forests of oak, cypress, and pine.

Hancock County is also known for its diverse wildlife, including deer, alligators, turtles, and numerous bird species. The county is a major stopover point for migratory birds along the Mississippi Flyway, attracting thousands of birdwatchers each year.

Agriculture and Fisheries:

Agriculture and fisheries play important roles in the economy of Hancock County, with seafood processing, shrimping, and oystering being among the primary industries in the area. The county’s coastal location provides access to abundant seafood resources, including shrimp, oysters, crabs, and finfish.

In addition to commercial fishing, agriculture is also prevalent in Hancock County, with crops such as soybeans, corn, and cotton being grown in the fertile soils of the area. The county is known for its agritourism offerings, including farm tours, pick-your-own operations, and farmers’ markets.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

Hancock County has a rich cultural and historical heritage, with a legacy shaped by its early settlers, Native American history, and maritime traditions.

The county is home to several historic towns and communities, including Bay St. Louis, Waveland, and Pearlington, each with its own unique charm and character. These towns feature historic architecture, vibrant downtown areas, and cultural landmarks, such as churches, museums, and cemeteries.

Hancock County is also known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and performance venues located throughout the area. The county’s diverse population and rich cultural heritage are reflected in its festivals, events, and celebrations, which showcase the traditions, customs, and cuisines of its residents.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Hancock County, Mississippi, is a region of diverse geography, coastal beauty, and rich natural resources. From its scenic coastline and barrier islands to its wetlands and marshes, the county offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation, wildlife viewing, and cultural exploration. Whether enjoying its beaches, sampling its seafood cuisine, or learning about its history and heritage, Hancock County invites visitors to experience the timeless allure of Mississippi’s Gulf Coast.

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Geography of Geauga County, Ohio https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/geography-of-geauga-county-ohio/ Thu, 14 Mar 2024 03:47:10 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8441 Geauga County, nestled in the northeastern part of Ohio, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, abundant natural resources, and diverse geography. From rolling hills and lush forests to tranquil lakes and winding rivers, Geauga County offers a rich tapestry of environments that have shaped its history, economy, and way of life. Check climateforcities to learn more about the state of Ohio.

Geography

Geauga County spans approximately 405 square miles, making it one of the smaller counties in Ohio in terms of land area. Its geography is characterized by a mix of gently rolling hills, fertile valleys, and wooded areas. The county is part of the Western Allegheny Plateau, a region known for its scenic beauty and diverse ecosystems.

The highest point in Geauga County is approximately 1,370 feet above sea level, located near the village of Burton. The county’s elevation varies, with lower-lying areas along the Chagrin River and its tributaries and higher elevations in the southern and eastern parts of the county.

Climate

Geauga County experiences a humid continental climate, typical of the northeastern United States, with four distinct seasons characterized by varying temperatures and precipitation patterns.

Summers in Geauga County are warm and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from the upper 70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit. However, temperatures can occasionally climb into the 90s during periods of intense heat. Summer thunderstorms are common, providing much-needed rainfall to support agriculture and replenish groundwater supplies.

Winters in Geauga County are cold and snowy, with average high temperatures typically in the 30s and 40s Fahrenheit. Arctic air masses from Canada can bring frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall, particularly in January and February. Lake-effect snow from Lake Erie can also impact the region, especially in areas closer to the lake.

Spring and fall are transitional seasons in Geauga County, with mild temperatures and changing foliage. Spring brings warmer weather and the blooming of wildflowers, while fall is characterized by cooler temperatures and vibrant autumn colors as the leaves change before winter sets in.

Rivers and Lakes

Geauga County is home to several rivers, streams, and lakes, which play a vital role in the region’s ecology, recreation, and economy.

The Chagrin River, one of the county’s primary waterways, flows through the western part of Geauga County, meandering its way through wooded valleys and rolling hills. The river provides habitat for a variety of fish species, including trout, bass, and panfish, making it a popular destination for anglers.

Several smaller creeks and streams feed into the Chagrin River, including the East Branch of the Chagrin River and the West Branch of the Chagrin River, which converge near the village of Burton.

In addition to rivers, Geauga County is home to numerous lakes and reservoirs, both natural and man-made. One of the largest lakes in the county is Punderson Lake, located within Punderson State Park. This picturesque lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking, attracting visitors from across the region.

Other notable lakes in Geauga County include Bass Lake, LaDue Reservoir, and Observatory Pond, each providing unique recreational opportunities and serving as important habitats for wildlife.

Vegetation

The vegetation of Geauga County is characterized by a mix of forested areas, grasslands, and agricultural fields. The county is home to several types of forests, including deciduous forests dominated by oak, maple, and hickory trees, as well as coniferous forests featuring pine, spruce, and fir trees.

In addition to forests, Geauga County contains extensive grasslands and meadows, particularly in the eastern and southern parts of the county. These grasslands provide habitat for a variety of wildlife species, including deer, rabbits, and songbirds.

Agriculture also plays a significant role in the county’s vegetation, with farms producing a variety of crops such as corn, soybeans, and hay. The fertile soils of the region, combined with adequate rainfall and a favorable climate, support a thriving agricultural industry that contributes to the local economy.

Human Impact

Human activity has had a significant impact on the geography of Geauga County, particularly in terms of land use and development.

Urbanization and suburban sprawl have led to the conversion of agricultural land and natural habitats into residential and commercial developments. While this has brought economic growth and opportunities to the region, it has also raised concerns about habitat loss, water pollution, and traffic congestion.

Conservation efforts have been implemented to protect and preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of Geauga County. Organizations such as the Geauga Park District work to acquire and maintain green spaces, parks, and natural areas for public enjoyment and environmental stewardship.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Geauga County, Ohio, offers a diverse array of geographical features, including rolling hills, wooded valleys, and tranquil lakes. The county’s humid continental climate, with its four distinct seasons, influences life in the region and shapes activities such as agriculture, recreation, and tourism. While human activity has altered the landscape, efforts to conserve and protect the county’s natural resources ensure that its geography remains a defining feature of the region for generations to come.

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Geography of New Castle County, Delaware https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/geography-of-new-castle-county-delaware/ Tue, 12 Mar 2024 12:25:38 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8440 New Castle County, Delaware, located in the northern part of the state, is a region steeped in history, marked by a mix of urban and rural landscapes, and characterized by diverse geographical features. Covering an area of approximately 448 square miles, the county is the most populous in Delaware and plays a pivotal role in the state’s economic and cultural life. In this comprehensive exploration, we will delve into the geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other distinctive features that define New Castle County, Delaware. Check topbbacolleges to learn about Kent County, Delaware.

Geography: New Castle County is situated between the Delaware River to the east and the Maryland border to the west. It is part of the Delmarva Peninsula, a region bordered by the Chesapeake Bay to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. The county’s landscape is a mix of flat coastal plains, rolling hills, and urban areas. It encompasses a diverse range of environments, from the bustling city of Wilmington to rural farmland and historic districts.

The county is known for its proximity to major urban centers, including Philadelphia, making it a hub for commerce, industry, and cultural exchange. It is bordered by the Delaware River to the east, providing access to maritime activities and contributing to the historical significance of the region.

Climate: New Castle County experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers, cool winters, and moderate precipitation throughout the year. The proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Delaware River influences the climate, moderating temperature extremes and contributing to the overall comfort of the region.

Summers are warm, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to the low 90s Fahrenheit. Winters are cool, with average lows in the 20s and 30s Fahrenheit. Snowfall is moderate, and while winter storms can occur, the maritime influence often mitigates the severity of cold weather.

The transitional seasons of spring and fall bring mild temperatures, making them pleasant times to explore the county’s outdoor attractions. The climate of New Castle County contributes to the variety of recreational opportunities and the appeal of the region for residents and visitors alike.

Delaware River and Waterways: The Delaware River forms the eastern border of New Castle County, providing a vital waterway for transportation, commerce, and recreation. The river connects the county to the broader mid-Atlantic region and has historically played a crucial role in the development of settlements along its banks.

Several smaller rivers and waterways flow through the county, contributing to the overall hydrology of the region. The Christina River, a major tributary of the Delaware River, flows through Wilmington and has been integral to the city’s industrial history. The Brandywine Creek, another significant tributary, meanders through the northern part of the county, creating scenic landscapes and supporting recreational activities.

Numerous creeks and streams traverse the county, providing habitat for wildlife and contributing to the overall ecological diversity of the region. The interconnected network of waterways has shaped the county’s history, industry, and recreational opportunities.

Lakes and Reservoirs: While New Castle County is not known for large natural lakes, it has several reservoirs and man-made bodies of water that contribute to the local landscape. The Glasgow Park Lake, part of Glasgow Park, is a recreational spot featuring walking trails, playgrounds, and fishing opportunities. Lums Pond State Park, located in the northern part of the county, boasts the largest freshwater pond in Delaware, offering boating, fishing, and hiking.

The presence of these lakes and reservoirs adds to the county’s natural beauty and provides residents and visitors with opportunities for outdoor recreation. These water features, while not as extensive as rivers and the Delaware River, contribute to the overall appeal of the county’s parks and green spaces.

Urban and Rural Landscapes: New Castle County is a study in contrasts, featuring both urban and rural landscapes. Wilmington, the largest city in Delaware, is situated in the northern part of the county along the Delaware River. It serves as a hub for finance, industry, and cultural activities. The cityscape includes a mix of historic architecture, modern developments, and vibrant cultural districts.

Beyond the urban center, the county transitions into rural areas characterized by farmland, open spaces, and historic districts. The town of Odessa, for example, is known for its well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture, contributing to its designation as a National Historic District.

The diverse landscapes within the county cater to a range of lifestyles, providing residents with access to both the amenities of city living and the tranquility of rural environments. This balance between urban and rural elements defines the county’s character and offers a variety of living experiences.

Historic Districts and Landmarks: New Castle County boasts numerous historic districts and landmarks that reflect the rich history of the region. Old New Castle, a charming town on the Delaware River, is home to well-preserved colonial architecture, including the Amstel House and the Old Court House. The town’s cobblestone streets and historic homes contribute to its designation as a National Historic Landmark District.

Wilmington’s historic districts, such as Quaker Hill and the Trinity Vicinity, showcase a mix of architectural styles from different periods, reflecting the city’s evolution over the centuries. The Hagley Museum and Library, located along the Brandywine Creek, preserves the site of the original DuPont powder mills, providing insights into the history of industry and innovation in the region.

Other landmarks, such as Fort Delaware State Park on Pea Patch Island, harken back to the Civil War era, offering visitors a glimpse into the county’s military history. These historic districts and landmarks contribute to the cultural fabric of New Castle County and attract visitors interested in exploring its rich heritage.

Parks and Natural Reserves: New Castle County is home to a variety of parks and natural reserves that provide residents and visitors with opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Bellevue State Park, situated on former DuPont estate grounds, features walking trails, gardens, and recreational facilities. White Clay Creek State Park, spanning the border with Pennsylvania, offers hiking, biking, and equestrian trails in a natural setting.

Brandywine Creek State Park, encompassing the scenic Brandywine Valley, provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and picnicking along the creek. The park’s landscapes, featuring woodlands and open fields, contribute to the county’s commitment to preserving green spaces for public enjoyment.

The Delaware Nature Society manages several nature preserves within the county, including Ashland Nature Center and Abbott’s Mill Nature Center, offering educational programs and opportunities for nature exploration. These parks and reserves contribute to the county’s environmental stewardship and the well-being of its residents.

Economic Landscape: New Castle County is a key economic driver for the state of Delaware, with a diverse economy that includes finance, healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Wilmington, the largest city in the state, is a financial hub with a concentration of corporate headquarters, including major banks and financial institutions.

The Port of Wilmington, situated along the Delaware River, is one of the busiest ports on the East Coast, facilitating trade and commerce. The industrial sector includes manufacturing facilities, particularly in areas such as the Delaware Industrial Park.

Education and healthcare institutions, including the University of Delaware and ChristianaCare Health System, contribute to the county’s economic vitality and provide employment opportunities for residents. The economic landscape reflects the county’s strategic location, strong infrastructure, and commitment to fostering a diverse and resilient economy.

Conclusion: In conclusion, New Castle County, Delaware, is a region that harmoniously blends history, diverse landscapes, and economic vitality. From the urban vibrancy of Wilmington to the rural charm of historic districts and natural reserves, the county offers a spectrum of experiences for residents and visitors alike. The Delaware River, historic landmarks, and a mix of urban and rural environments contribute to the county’s unique identity and cultural richness.

New Castle County’s commitment to preserving its historic heritage, green spaces, and economic diversity underscores its resilience and adaptability. The county’s landscapes, whether along the Delaware River or within its parks and nature reserves, provide a backdrop for a wide range of recreational activities. With a balance between urban development and rural preservation, New Castle County stands as a testament to the dynamic interplay between history, nature, and economic progress in the First State.

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Geography of Berkeley County, South Carolina https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/geography-of-berkeley-county-south-carolina/ Tue, 05 Mar 2024 07:33:12 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8438 Berkeley County, located in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina, boasts a rich tapestry of geographical features, including expansive marshlands, winding rivers, and historical landmarks. From its diverse ecosystems to its unique climate patterns, Berkeley County offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. In this comprehensive exploration, we will delve into the geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other notable features that define Berkeley County.

Geography:

According to Cellphoneexplorer, Berkeley County spans an area of approximately 1,228 square miles (3,181 square kilometers) and is situated in the coastal plain region of South Carolina. It is bordered by several other counties, including Charleston County to the south, Dorchester County to the west, and Williamsburg County to the north. The county is characterized by its diverse topography, which includes low-lying coastal plains, marshlands, and forested areas.

The geography of Berkeley County is shaped by several major bodies of water, including the Cooper River, which forms the eastern boundary of the county. The Cooper River is a tidal estuary that flows into Charleston Harbor and serves as a vital transportation route and source of water for irrigation, fishing, and recreation.

The county seat of Berkeley County is the city of Moncks Corner, while other notable communities include Goose Creek, Hanahan, and Summerville. These towns and villages are situated along the county’s network of roads and highways, which provide access to the surrounding countryside and neighboring counties.

Climate:

Berkeley County experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The region’s climate is influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, with weather patterns shaped by maritime air masses and prevailing westerly winds.

Summers in Berkeley County are typically hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 24 to 32 degrees Celsius). Heatwaves are common during the summer months, with temperatures occasionally exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). Afternoon thunderstorms are also frequent, bringing heavy rainfall, lightning, and gusty winds to the area.

Winters in Berkeley County are generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to low 60s Fahrenheit (around 7 to 16 degrees Celsius). Frost is rare but can occur during cold snaps, particularly in the interior parts of the county. Most precipitation falls as rain, although snowfall is not unheard of, especially in the northern parts of the county.

Spring and fall are transitional seasons in Berkeley County, characterized by mild temperatures and changing foliage. Spring brings the blooming of flowers and the greening of the landscape, while fall showcases the vibrant colors of changing leaves and the harvest of agricultural crops.

Rivers and Lakes:

Berkeley County is home to several rivers, creeks, and lakes, which provide valuable water resources and support diverse ecosystems. In addition to the Cooper River, the county is traversed by several other major rivers, including the Santee River, Wando River, and Ashley River, which flow into the Atlantic Ocean from the interior of the state.

These waterways provide habitat for a variety of fish and wildlife, as well as opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Additionally, Berkeley County is home to several lakes and reservoirs, including Lake Moultrie, Lake Marion, and Lake Moultrie, which offer recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Marshlands and Wetlands:

Berkeley County is characterized by extensive marshlands and wetlands, which are critical habitats for a variety of plant and animal species. The Francis Marion National Forest, located in the northern part of the county, contains vast tracts of freshwater and saltwater marshes, as well as tidal creeks and estuaries.

These wetlands provide important breeding grounds for birds, fish, and other wildlife, as well as serving as natural buffers against storm surge and flooding. The Francis Marion National Forest offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography, allowing visitors to experience the unique beauty and biodiversity of the Lowcountry region.

Historical Landmarks and Cultural Attractions:

Berkeley County is steeped in history and is home to several historical landmarks and cultural attractions that showcase its rich heritage. These include:

  • The Old Santee Canal Park, located near Moncks Corner, which preserves the remnants of the original Santee Canal, one of the first canals built in the United States. The park features historic structures, interpretive exhibits, and scenic walking trails that explore the history and significance of the canal.
  • The Berkeley County Museum and Heritage Center, located in Moncks Corner, which features exhibits and artifacts that highlight the history and culture of Berkeley County and the surrounding region. The museum offers educational programs, special events, and guided tours that provide insights into the area’s past.
  • The Cypress Gardens, located near Moncks Corner, which is a historic botanical garden that showcases the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Lowcountry region. The gardens feature walking trails, boardwalks, and boat tours that allow visitors to explore the lush landscapes and scenic waterways of Berkeley County.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Berkeley County, South Carolina, offers a wealth of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural attractions for residents and visitors to enjoy. From its scenic rivers and marshlands to its historic landmarks and cultural institutions, the county’s geography reflects its rich heritage and diverse attractions. Whether exploring the Francis Marion National Forest, touring the Old Santee Canal Park, or kayaking in the Cypress Gardens, Berkeley County has something to offer for everyone. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Berkeley County is truly a gem of the South Carolina Lowcountry.

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Geography of Alpena County, Michigan https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/geography-of-alpena-county-michigan/ Mon, 04 Mar 2024 04:36:42 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8437 Alpena County, located in the northeastern part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, is a region characterized by its natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. From its picturesque lakeshores to its dense forests and rolling hills, Alpena County offers a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities and scenic vistas. In this exploration, we’ll delve into the geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other notable features of Alpena County.

Geography:

According to campingship, Alpena County encompasses an area of approximately 1,695 square miles, making it one of the larger counties in Michigan. It is situated on the shores of Lake Huron, bordered by Presque Isle County to the north, Montmorency County to the west, Alcona County to the south, and the waters of Thunder Bay to the east. The county seat and largest city is Alpena.

The geography of Alpena County is characterized by its proximity to Lake Huron and its diverse terrain. The eastern portion of the county is dominated by the Lake Huron shoreline, which features sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and picturesque harbors. Inland, the landscape consists of rolling hills, dense forests, and numerous lakes and rivers.

The county is part of the Northern Michigan region, known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. It is also located within the boundaries of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, which encompass over a million acres of public land and provide habitat for a variety of wildlife species.

Climate:

Alpena County experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons and moderate precipitation throughout the year. The region’s climate is influenced by its proximity to the Great Lakes, particularly Lake Huron, which can have a moderating effect on temperatures and bring lake-effect snowfall in the winter months.

Summers in Alpena County are typically warm and humid, with daytime temperatures averaging in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit. The presence of Lake Huron can help to moderate temperatures along the shoreline, providing relief from the heat on hot summer days.

Winters in Alpena County are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing from December to February. Lake-effect snowfall can occur when cold air masses pass over the relatively warmer waters of Lake Huron, resulting in heavy snowfall accumulations, particularly in the eastern part of the county.

Spring and autumn in Alpena County are relatively mild, with temperatures gradually warming up in the spring and cooling down in the autumn. These seasons are favored by many residents for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and leaf-peeping as the forests change colors.

Rivers and Lakes:

Alpena County is home to numerous rivers, lakes, and streams that provide important habitats for wildlife and offer recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. One of the most significant waterways in the county is the Thunder Bay River, which flows from its headwaters in Montmorency County to its mouth at Thunder Bay on Lake Huron. The Thunder Bay River and its tributaries provide opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing, as well as scenic beauty as it winds its way through the countryside.

In addition to the Thunder Bay River, Alpena County is dotted with several inland lakes, including Long Lake, Grand Lake, and Hubbard Lake. These lakes offer opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing, as well as camping and picnicking along their shores.

Alpena County is also home to several smaller bodies of water, including creeks, ponds, and wetlands, which provide important habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. These wetlands serve as breeding grounds for migratory birds and offer opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.

Notable Features:

Alpena County is home to several notable landmarks and attractions that showcase the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. One of the most iconic features of the county is the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, located in the waters of Thunder Bay on Lake Huron. The sanctuary encompasses over 4,300 square miles of protected waters and is home to over 200 shipwrecks, making it a popular destination for diving, snorkeling, and maritime history enthusiasts.

Another popular destination in Alpena County is the Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan, located in the city of Alpena. The museum features exhibits on the natural history, cultural heritage, and maritime history of the region, including displays on Native American artifacts, local wildlife, and Great Lakes shipping. Visitors to the museum can also explore the planetarium, art gallery, and outdoor sculpture garden.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Alpena County offers a diverse array of geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other natural features that make it a unique and appealing destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. From its scenic lakeshores and dense forests to its historic shipwrecks and cultural attractions, this corner of northeastern Michigan provides endless opportunities for exploration, relaxation, and appreciation of the natural world. Whether you’re diving among the shipwrecks of Thunder Bay, hiking through the forests of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, or exploring the exhibits at the Besser Museum, Alpena County has something to offer for everyone.

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Visa for Cape Verde https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/visa-for-cape-verde/ Mon, 13 Feb 2023 07:46:53 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8234 Citizens of Russia and the CIS to visit Cape Verde require a national visa, which can be issued at the honorary consulate of Cape Verde in Moscow, or upon arrival at the airport of Sal Island, where all international flights land. Visa fee – 60 USD in the first case and 25 EUR – in the second. You can stay in paradise under the canopy of palm trees for 30 days. And if you apply for a transit Schengen visa in advance, then when changing in Lisbon, you can leave the airport and even have time to see some of the sights of the Portuguese capital.

On April 30, 2019, an agreement was signed on the mutual abolition of visas between Russia and Cape Verde.

Documents for a visa to Cape Verde

Required documents for obtaining a visa:

  1. Questionnaire

Completed in Russian and signed personally by the applicant.

  1. international passport

Valid for at least 3 months.

  1. Photo

One color photograph 3.5×4.5 cm without corners and ovals on a light background.

  1. Copy of the passport

Copies of the completed pages of the civil and foreign passports.

  1. Flight booking

Copy or printout of air tickets

The term for issuing a visa is 3 working days, urgent processing is one day. The consular fee for a single individual visa is approximately 60 USD, a family visa (a parent with a child entered in the passport) – 75 USD, an individual multivisa 114 USD, a family multivisa – 145 USD. Group visa (if a group of 5 or more people travels) – 44 USD per person.

Medical travel insurance is not included in the list of mandatory documents for a visa to Cape Verde, but it is still worth getting it before departure.

Obtaining a visa at the airport

To obtain a visa on arrival, you must provide the border guard with a passport valid for the duration of the trip and a return air ticket, as well as pay a fee of 25 EUR (in cash or by credit card).

The validity of the visa is 180 days from the date of issue, the period of stay in the country is 30 days.

A transit Schengen visa is not required when flying from Russia to Cape Verde via Lisbon, if you do not cross the border of the airport transit zone. In other cases, a transit visa is required.

How to get to Cape Verde

The most convenient flight options: Moscow – Sal or Moscow – Santiago via Lisbon (flights are operated by TAP). In addition, convenient connections are offered by Iberia (via Madrid), Air France (via Paris) and Lufthansa (via Frankfurt). The duration of the flight is about 9 hours, excluding connections.

Find cheap flights to Cape Verde

Visa

Citizens of Russia and the CIS to visit Cape Verde require a visa, which can be issued at the honorary consulate of Cape Verde in Moscow, or upon arrival at the airport of Sal Island with a certificate of permission. Taking out medical travel insurance is at your own peril and risk, but it’s better to never stay without a policy in a foreign country.

Customs

Import and export of currency is not limited, it is not necessary to declare it. Duty-free import of up to 400 cigarettes and up to 2 liters of alcohol is allowed.

Import, export, storage and distribution of drugs and psychotropic drugs, as well as weapons without special permission are prohibited. The import of plants is subject to mandatory control. Duty-free import and export of fresh fruits and vegetables (not more than 5 kg), as well as other products and things in the amount necessary for personal use, is allowed.

Useful phone numbers

Honorary Consulate of Cape Verde in Moscow: Rublevskoe shosse, 26, building 1, office No. 182; tel./fax: +7 (495) 415-45-03

Embassy of Russia in Praia: CP 31, Achada de Santo Antonio; tel.: (238) 262-27-38, 262-27-39, 262-27-40; www.capeverde.mid.ru

Transport

The cheapest way to get around the islands is minibuses (aluguer). Minibuses do not have a clear schedule, they depart as soon as all empty seats are filled.

A half-hour taxi ride within the island will cost 6-10 EUR. Taxis can be rented for the whole day, and you need to agree in advance with the driver about the price.

The main mode of transport connecting the islands with each other is airplanes. Ferries and boats run between neighboring islands.

Car rental in Cape Verde

Required documents: international driver’s license and new Russian driver’s license, credit card. The driver must be over 21 years of age and have at least a year of driving experience.

Climate of Cape Verde

The climate is dry tropical, the average temperature in July-August is about +28…+32 °C, in January-February – +23…+25 °C. Water temperature in the ocean: February-March +21…+22 °C, August-October – +25…+26 °C. The wind constantly blows on the islands, which helps to endure the summer heat well. There is little precipitation during the year, mostly in January-February. See citypopulationreview for weather information.

Visa for Cape Verde

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Cape Town, South Africa https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/cape-town-south-africa/ Sun, 05 Feb 2023 17:20:49 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8231 Cape Town is located on a peninsula at the Cape of Good Hope, at the foot of Table Mountain. Its center (mansions of Old Dutch architecture and fanciful Victorian buildings in the old quarters) is quite small and is sandwiched on one side by the “table mountain”, on the other – by Table Bay. Long Street is completely given over to trendy bars, designer clothing stores, hostels, restaurants and shops. According to petwithsupplies, Cape Town is one of the largest cities in South Africa.

How to get to Cape Town

Cape Town International Airport is the second largest in South Africa. From here there are regular flights to Johanburg, Durban and all major cities in South Africa, as well as to Namibia, Gaborone and Nairobi. In addition, aircraft from Lufthansa, British Airways, Delta Airlines, KLM, Singapore Airlines, Malaysian from Europe, America and Asia land here. In summer, from October to March, operators launch additional charter flights from Europe to Cape Town.

From the airport to the city center can be reached by PRASA (Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa) trains, which are divided into long-distance trains (Shosholoza Meyl) and local destinations (MetroRail). Shosholoza Meyl trains have three service classes: economy (seats only), tourist (with beds) and first class. In addition, a tourist bus runs from the airport to the city center, making several stops along the way. The fare is 50 ZAR, the interval of movement is every 30 minutes.

By train

The main railway station of Cape Town is located in the city center at the intersection of Adderley and Strand streets. Trains arrive here from Johannesburg (daily, and on Mon, Wed, Fri and Sun – twice a day), Durban (via Kimberley and Bloemfontein, on Mon and Wed), Port Elizabeth (via George and Oudtsvorn on Fri, only first class), East London (Sun, economy only) and Queenstown (Thursday, economy only).

On Metro Rail trains

MetroRail has two classes of service – MetroPlus (aka first class) and simply Metro (also known as “third class”). There is no better way to explore the Cape Town area than on the MetroRail. It connects the outskirts of Stellenbosch, Strand, Paarl, Somerset West, Malmesbury, Worcester, and the southern areas of Claremont, Wynberg and Retreat and the beaches of Muizenberg, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek, Glencairn and Simon’s Town.

The best part about MetroRail is the places it’s routed through. For example, the route from Muizenberg to Simon’s Town passes along the ocean, where you can often see frolicking whales. In addition, a restaurant car is attached to these trains, which guarantees a pleasant trip 100%.

Transport

The main city bus station is the Golden Acre Terminal (Grand Parade, City Bowl area), from where buses depart throughout the city, including to the Atlantic coast, to Hout Bay. When traveling nearby, most locals use taxis or private traders, tourists should do the same. In addition, taxis are an ideal mode of transport for those traveling in a group. Parking can be found on Adderley St at the end of Grand Pde, or call Marine Taxi (021-434 0434), SA Cab (0861 172 222) or Unicab Taxis (021-447 4402).

The Cape Peninsula is inconvenient for cycling because it is quite hilly and distances from point to point can be about 70 km. In addition, it is impossible to transport two-wheeled friends in commuter trains – so it will not work to reduce the distance. But for those who do not intend to stick out further than the city center, you can contact the following offices: Atlantic Tourist Information Center (243 Main Rd, Sea Point; bike / scooter for the day R85 / 195), Cape Info Africa (32 Napier St, Waterkant; for day R85), Downhill Adventures (Orange St, Gardens; per day R100) or Homeland Shuttle & Tours (305 Long St, City Bowl; per day R80).

Shopping and stores

V & A Waterfront is the best place for shopping and buying souvenirs (though expensive and not original). More authentic crafts and knick-knacks can be found on Sundays at the Green Point Stadium Open Market, near the V&A Waterfront (negotiable). Some of the stuff from there is on sale throughout the week at the bottom of Long Street. To find very, very authentic things, go to Church Street, but get ready for a certain shock.

Contemporary South African art is now on a wave of popularity, considered one of the best in the world (but also the most underestimated). If you love contemporary art and have money, you can spend it tastefully in one of the city’s galleries. For example, Michael Stevenson Gallery, then Joao Ferreira Gallery, AVA Gallery or Bell-Roberts Gallery.

  • Are there Russian grocery stores in Cape Town?
  • Where are the souvenir shops in Cape Town and Johannesburg

5 things to do in Cape Town

  1. Stand at the extreme southern point of Africa – the Cape of Good Hope.
  2. Climb Table Mountain and survey the endless expanses.
  3. Take a couple of surf lessons on the most popular surfer beach in South Africa.
  4. Taste the aromatic wines of the Cape region, famous throughout Africa.
  5. Embark on a journey along the picturesque Garden Roadand reach Port Elizabeth through many cozy villages along the way.

Cuisine and restaurants

The basis of the “haute cuisine” of Cape Town is fish and seafood, caught in abundance from local waters. Delicacies include Cape Town salmon, tuna and yellowtail, while wild and farm-raised oysters (price varies) and lobster are available in season. Ask the waiters who today is fresher and tastier. A separate treat for gourmets is oysters, but they must be eaten at certain times of the year. The meal should definitely be supplemented with local wine: the alcoholic products of the Cape Town region are known far beyond the borders of South Africa, as well as Karoo fruits and lamb.

The city has two “restaurant” zones: the coastal promenade and Long Street.

The city has two “restaurant” zones: the coastal promenade and Long Street. The first is more pompous, the second is very democratic, with a lot of inexpensive ethnic cafes. V&A Waterfront Port is always full of restaurants, sometimes crowded and expensive, but decent. There are also many eateries along Long Street, in the fashionable De Waterkant district (between Bo Kaap and Green Point) and near Somerset Road. Dine with supermodels and other famous people in the Camps Bay area, where there are many cafes and entertainment (along Victoria Road).

Hout Bay on the western side of the Cape Peninsula is a gourmet destination. Fresh lobsters are very good here, cost about 300 rand. Kalk Bay in the east of the peninsula offers excellent fish whores. Do not neglect the wine regions – Cape Winelands, especially if you have a car. The village of Franschhoek is another center of the wine region, along with the French Quarter (Quartier Francais). There are some great restaurants in Constantia Valley – Pastis Brasserie, Wasabi, The River Cafe, La Colombe and Constantia Uitsig Restaurant.

In order not to turn gray at the sight of the bill, you should make sure in advance that you correctly understood the price of the dish. Complement your belly feast with eye candy at the Ritz’s revolving restaurant.

Cape Town, South Africa

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Con Dao, Vietnam https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/con-dao-vietnam/ Mon, 26 Dec 2022 02:40:05 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8229 Con Dao until relatively recently was called “Con Son” and had a somewhat bad reputation among the political prisoners of friendly Vietnam. The archipelago itself has become known to mankind since the end of the 13th century, and the famous traveler Marco Polo gave the first full description of the islands. However, already in the 18th century, history made its own adjustments, and civilized mankind began to actively use the archipelago in order to strengthen its bloody regime in this region of the globe. So, the development of virgin lands began with the construction of a harmless port for the ships of the East India Company, and continued with the construction of one of the most terrible prisons for keeping political prisoners and others who disagreed with the fact that the French colonialists, and later the American military, carried out their tough external politics.

One of the main attractions of this prison can rightfully be considered the savage conditions of detention of “guilty” citizens. Now they are being shown to not yet very numerous tourists for little money, and in those distant times, “guests” were placed in shallow earthen pits and carefully covered with a reinforced concrete lid on top.

How to get there

The airport in the Con Dao archipelago was recently renovated, and now receives daily flights from Ho Chi Minh City by Vasco (Vietnam Air Services Company), the cost of the flight is low.

According to Clothesbliss, the miniature airport is located just 15 km from the capital of the main island, all hotels, as a rule, send a free transfer for their guests.

Othely Con dao

Today, the archipelago has certainly become friendlier both to its citizens and to those who spend their holidays here. As part of the development program over the years, Condao has acquired several hotels, the most notable of which can be considered a bungalow complex built by the international chain Six Senses. Since these apartments are luxury class on Condao, the upper limit of the cost of living is not known for certain, and the most “budget” price variant, even by the standards of Russian reality, looks quite acceptable, being between 30 and 50 USD.

Beaches

On Con Dao, there are, according to the latest data, two dozen beaches, one of which is the most popular due to the presence of white sand on the surface – Ong Dung. It is also worth noting that from April to November, turtles lay their eggs in the sands of the island, and after a while, small, slow, baby turtles, ready for a long and happy life, begin to appear from them. However, in order to see this magical spectacle of the appearance of a new creature in the light of day, tourists will need to be patient, give up tobacco and alcohol, and also observe perfect silence, since extraneous sounds and smells do not have the most positive effect on the turtle population.

Entertainment and attractions Con Dao

The city of Con Dao, whose name the entire island bore not so long ago, is famous for the prison, which was written about above, as well as rare buildings in the style of French colonialism. So, fans of rigid statehood, the slave trade and the dashing 1890s will find quite a lot of interesting things in this amazing place.

National park

More peaceful fellow citizens can go to explore the wild. According to the observations of experienced experts, it is best to do this accompanied by a specially trained person. The fact is that today the Con Dao area is occupied by two-thirds of the national park of the same name, and the nature of most of the island has remained untouched (neither by the notorious colonialists, nor by forced Vietnamese industrialization). In this connection, the landscape is mainly dominated by a tropical forest, which is also a jungle, in which modern children of asphalt can easily find their last refuge if they do not turn to a guide from among the local population for help.

Fishing and diving

Especially for those who are sure in advance of their inability to admire the flora and the rudiments of European architecture in the Vietnamese province, there is a great option to entertain yourself with fishing and diving.

The local population assures tourists with an oath that there is always a bite in the area of ​​the archipelago, and the assortment of seafood is richer than in other parts of the world. However, according to the testimonies of experienced fishermen, a shark is really caught here, in the area of ​​​​Nyat beach, there is also a place to be a squid. For those who are not alien to extreme sports in the literal and figurative sense of the word, there is an opportunity to hunt the dugong, which is also a sea cow. But in this case, it would be useful to familiarize yourself with two nuances at once: firstly, they can be sent to live in prison for poaching, and secondly, a sea cow can stand up for itself and significantly cripple a tourist from a capitalist country.

Con Dao, Vietnam

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Muskogee Turnpike and Gymnast Turnpike, Oklahoma https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/muskogee-turnpike-and-gymnast-turnpike-oklahoma/ Sun, 11 Dec 2022 17:26:21 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8225 Muskogee Turnpike
SR-351
Begin Broken Arrow
End Webbers Falls
Length 53 mi
Length 85 km
Route
Creek Turnpike13 Wagoner / Coweta

19 Porter

26 Muskogee

33 Hyde Park Road

34 Muskogee

35 Gibson Street

36 Chandler Road

37 Peak Boulevard

55 Webbers Falls

56 → Oklahoma City / Little Rock

According to Bestitude, the Muskogee Turnpike is a turnpike, or toll road, in the U.S. state of Oklahoma. The highway runs from the Broken Arrow suburb of Tulsa, through Muskogee to Interstate 40 at Webbers Falls, and is a major eastbound highway from Tulsa. The route is 85 kilometers long.

Travel directions

The highway begins in Broken Arrow, a suburb of Tulsa. It crosses the Creek Turnpike and heads southeast. The highway has 2×2 lanes. At Tullahassee, you cross US 69, which runs from Muskogee to Vinita as a four-lane highway. You pass Muskogee, a regional town of 38,000 inhabitants, where you cross US 62, which runs from Oklahoma City to Fayetteville. The section along Muskogee is toll-free, to encourage local traffic to take the highway, rather than drive through town. The highway runs parallel to the Arkansas River from here. The last section goes through uninhabited land, joining Interstate 40. at Webbers Fallstowards Fort Smith and Little Rock.

way number

The Muskogee Turnpike is numbered State Route 351 between SR-51 in Broken Arrow and Harris Road in Muskogee and between SR-165 in Muskogee and I-40. This number was approved in 2014 and covers the tolled areas of the Muskogee Turnpike.

History

The Muskogee Turnpike was opened to traffic on October 16, 1969.

Opening history

Van Unpleasant Length Opening
Broken Arrow Webbers Falls 85 km 16-10-1969

Tol

The Muskogee Turnpike is a toll road, operated by the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority. The tolls are very low as everywhere in Oklahoma. Tolls can be paid with the Pikepass.

Traffic intensities

23,000 vehicles drive daily at the start of the toll road at Broken Arrow, dropping to 20,000 vehicles after Coweta and 21,000 vehicles at Muskogee. 7,000 vehicles a day drive between Muskogee and Webbers Falls.

Gymnast Turnpike

Gymnast Turnpike
Get started Oklahoma City
End Tulsa
Length 88 mi
Length 142 km
Route
  • → Oklahoma City / Wichita
  • 146 Luther
  • 158 Wellston
  • 166 Chandler
  • 179 Stroud
  • 196 Bristow
  • 211 Kellyville
  • 215 sap pulpa
  • 218 Creek Turnpike

The Governor Roy J. Turner Turnpike is a turnpike in the U.S. state of Oklahoma, part of Interstate 44. The toll road connects Oklahoma City to Tulsa and is 142 kilometers long.

Travel directions

The Turner Turnpike at Luther.

The Turner Turnpike begins just outside Oklahoma City at an interchange with Interstate 35, the highway from Oklahoma City to Wichita, Kansas. To the west, the John Kilpatrick Turnpike continues west around Oklahoma City. The highway has 2×2 lanes and runs in an east to northeasterly direction. One passes through monotonously sloping area with meadows. There are no larger towns on the route. Just before Tulsa, the Creek Turnpike branches off, forming the Tulsa bypass, after which the Turner Turnpike becomes toll-free I-44 to Tulsa.

History

The Turner Turnpike is Oklahoma ‘s oldest highway, and was approved in 1947 to directly connect the state’s two largest cities, Oklahoma City and Tulsa. The highway opened on May 16, 1953, and was also the westernmost interurban highway in the United States at the time. The toll road has long since been paid off, but the toll continues to be levied in order to build and maintain other toll roads that are not profitable.

Work began in 2017 to widen the Turner Turnpike 35 miles west from Tulsa to 2×3 lanes. On November 16, 2018, the widening of the first 13 kilometers between Bristow and Tulsa was completed.

Naming

The highway is named after Roy J. Turner (1894-1973), who was the governor of Oklahoma from 1947 to 1951. Under his leadership, a major reorganization of the State Highway Department was carried out and the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority was established.

Toll

The Turner Turnpike has a somewhat conspicuous toll system. Tickets are not used, but there is one central toll station at Stroud over the 142 kilometers. If you leave the toll road earlier, you pay a reduced rate at the exit. When you later leave the toll road, part of the toll is refunded, depending on how much you have not driven of the total distance. The toll fee is $6.45 in cash or $6.20 with a Pikepass, which amounts to $0.045 in cash per kilometer. Based on inflation, tolls had fallen by 50% between 1953 and 2011, and the Turner Turnpike was one of the cheapest toll roads in the country. In 2012, the toll rates were significantly increased, but the toll road remains cheap by European standards.

Traffic intensities

Every day, 27,000 to 30,000 vehicles travel most of the Turner Turnpike. Traffic intensities vary little due to the lack of larger towns on the route. Only the easternmost part close to Tulsa is somewhat busier with 42,000 vehicles per day.

Muskogee Turnpike Oklahoma

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Auckland and Rotorua, New Zealand https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/auckland-and-rotorua-new-zealand/ Sun, 04 Dec 2022 17:46:08 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8223 Auckland

Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand. Geographically and administratively divided into: Auckland City – the central and most urbanized part of the city, North Shore City, Manukau City, Waitakere City, Papakura, Rodney and Franklin districts.

Auckland is one of the few cities in the world that has access to two bays belonging to different seas. The shores of these bays are interconnected by several bridges: Auckland (Auckland Harbor Bridge) and Manukau (a road passes through it connecting the central part of the city with Auckland International Airport).

Several islands located in the waters of Hauraki Bay are controlled by the administration of Central Auckland, although officially their territory is not included in the territory of Greater Auckland. These numerous small islands scattered around the city are mainly used as nature reserves and recreational areas.

Auckland is located in the Auckland Volcanic Region. Within its boundaries there are approximately 48 extinct volcanoes that have survived to this day in the form of mountains, lakes, lagoons and islands. Many of these volcanoes are surrounded by vast fields of solidified lava.

Entertainment and attractions in Auckland

Auckland’s parks are well known: Victoria, West, Myers, Albert Park and the huge Auckland Domain. You can also visit Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter & Underwater World – an Antarctic animal research center with a museum dedicated to the first explorers of Antarctica, an underwater tunnel with a moving walkway and a pool with sea stingrays that you can touch.

A good souvenir market is located on Victoria Park Market Square, from Queens Wharf Pier you can take a ferry to the Rangitoto Volcano Island, Waiheke Island of Villas and Beaches and the Great Barrier Resort Island. An excellent collection of Maori art is in the Auckland Museum.

Auckland Museum

Domain Drive, The Domain, Parnell, Tel: +64 (0)9 309 04 43

Working hours: from Monday to Saturday, from 10:00 to 17:00. Entrance – 25 NZD, children – 10 NZD.

From the Auckland Television Tower, if you have the courage and cash, you can make a jump on an elastic rope (“bungy jumping”) from a height of 192 meters.

Weather in Auckland

According to citypopulationreview.com, Auckland is located in a warm temperate zone, characterized by humid summers and cool and rainy winters.

The weather in Auckland is very changeable, almost like in St. Petersburg. The only constant component of the local climate is the rains that go almost all year round.

Rotorua

The small New Zealand town of Rotorua is surrounded by 11 lakes and on the shores of the largest of them – Lake Rotorua of the same name. A little over 55 thousand people live here, and this place is known, first of all, for its amazingly beautiful nature. Which is not surprising: the city is located in a zone of geothermal activity, there are more than 60 natural geysers and many mineral springs. Mud baths, spa hotels and other tourist infrastructure have been built around the latter, as this resort has become popular in recent years not only among residents of New Zealand, but among tourists from all over the world.

How to get to Rotorua

Rotorua Airport has flights from Auckland (40 minutes), Wellington (60 minutes), Christchurch (1 hour 15 minutes) and Queenstown (2.5 hours). You can also get here by car – 3 hours drive from Auckland.

Cuisine and restaurants

Excellent cuisine can be found at Aorangi Peak Restaurant (located on Mount Ngongataha), Wild Rice Thai Cuisine, Capers Epicurean Cafe and the classic Pig & Whistle Bar.

In the vicinity of Rotorua, it is also worth trying the Maori cuisine of hangi (as a rule, the price includes a concert and dinner).

Treatment in Rotorua

There are more than a hundred tourist complexes with mud baths and hot springs, volcanoes, geysers and picturesque volcanic landscape forms. And even every self-respecting motel can provide its guests with a hydrogen sulfide bath. But it is better to go for it in the outdoor pool of Polynesian Spa.

Well-known thermal park Hell’s Gate (“Hell’s Gate”), which houses a hot waterfall and a huge spa complex specializing in Maori massage and mud baths.

Entertainment and attractions of Rotorua

On the banks of the Puarenga River, the Wakarevarewa Nature Reserve is located, where you can see the Pohutu geyser (“explosion”, height up to 30 m) and the ten-meter Prince of Wales Feathers. Here every day they give a free performance for tourists – national songs and Maori dances.

And also: the Lady Knox Geyser in the Wai-O-Tapu Reserve, the Waimangu Valley Geyser Valley, one of the most active volcanic zones in the country – Hells Gates. It is worth a trip to the protected Maori settlement, which has preserved the patriarchal way of life.

About 10 km southeast of Rotorua are the famous blue and green lakes of Waimangu, located in the crater of an extinct volcano.

Sheep farm Agrodome Sheep Show & Farm Tour, where not only sheep are bred, but also cows, ostriches, emus, llamas and many others. Huka Prawn Park is the only place in the world where shrimp are raised. There is also a small restaurant famous for seafood dishes. Paradise Valley Springs is one of the best nature reserves in New Zealand.

You can visit the RAVE (Rotorua Arts Village Experience) art village, where participants have the opportunity not only to see, but also to touch the arts and crafts of the local population.

Also: rafting on the winding Kaituna River, kayaking on Lake Taupo, 16 km Tongariro Pass.

Rotorua, New Zealand

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Sozopol, Bulgaria https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/sozopol-bulgaria/ Mon, 28 Nov 2022 05:06:20 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8221 Sozopol is a Bulgarian resort town 30 km from Burgas and 410 km from Sofia with a very impressive “pedigree”. It was founded in the 6th century. BC e. Greek colonialists on a small rocky peninsula washed by the waters of the Black Sea. The era of the Bulgarian Revival added its touches to the appearance of this town.

In ancient times, Sozopol was called Apollonia. This name was given to the city by the Milesian Greeks in honor of the patron god of seafarers, the god Apollo, and they erected a 13-meter bronze statue here in honor of him. The statue has survived to this day and is now kept in the Roman Capitol. She was transported there by the legionnaire Mark Lucullus, who destroyed Apollonia at the end of the 1st century BC. Five centuries later, Apollonia “resurrected” and became known as Sozopolis – the city of salvation. See BRIDGAT.COM for climate and weather information of Bulgaria.

Now it is a favorite place of the Bulgarian bohemia: artists, painters and musicians are attracted by the special atmosphere that prevails in Sozopol. Create its beautiful churches, old white houses with red tiles, stone alleys and narrow cobbled streets, immersed in the greenery of vines and figs, sandy beaches and a romantic harbor, a huge variety of bars and discos.

Underwater explorers found in the Sozopol bay a lot of Bronze Age tools, stocks and stone anchors, which are now the emblem of Sozopol.

In the vicinity of Sozopol is the mouth of the Ropotamo River – a natural reserve, which is often called the local Amazon. Its shores look like a real jungle – densely overgrown with ivy and wild grapes, snow-white lilies flaunt on the water, and where Ropotamo flows into the sea, you can meet dolphins and seals.

Two kilometers from the ancient part of Sozopol there is another miracle of nature – the largest island of the Bulgarian Black Sea – the island of St. Ivan. Under water near it there is a unique natural phenomenon – a stone forest, and on the island itself the monastery of St. Ivan Prodomos was built.

How to get there

Sozopol is easily accessible from the international highway that runs along the Black Sea coast and links Bulgaria with Romania and Turkey. The road from Burgas by car or regular bus takes 30-40 minutes. 30 km south of Sozopol there is an airfield serving small private aircraft.

You can also get to Sozopol by sea – the city has a marina of regional significance, which is used both for passenger and goods transportation, and for recreational and tourist trips.

Weather in Sozopol

The climate in Sozopol is mild: moderately humid, close to the Mediterranean. There are four distinct seasons here. Summers are usually hot with no rain. Winters are cold – the average temperature in January is -6 °C. The most suitable time for relaxation: the beginning of May – the end of September, when the average air temperature is +27…+33 °C, and water – +25…+28 °C.

Beaches

There are three sandy beaches in Sozopol – “Central Beach” in the old part of the city, “Harmani Beach” – in the new one and “Golden Fish” – 3 km to the north.

Sozopol Hotels

There are many small private 3* and 2* hotels and cottages with 2-3 rooms in Sozopol resort. There are only 2 five-star hotels: “Saint Thomas” and “Santa Marina”, as well as several four-star hotels – “Blue orange”, “Green life beach resort”, “Laguna beach” and “Martinez”. In the vicinity of the city, on quiet and clean beaches, there are several campsites: Goldfish, Gradina, Kavatsite and Smokinya.

Entertainment and attractions of Sozopol

A beautiful green park with churches divides Sozopol into two parts: the old one – on the peninsula, and the new one – “Harmanit”. This name comes from the word “harman” – “current”. There used to be many mills here, but only one has survived to this day.

The old part of the resort is the most picturesque and interesting. This is a Bulgarian architectural reserve, under the auspices of UNESCO. The unique atmosphere in it is created by the churches of the era of the Bulgarian National Revival, the remains of the fortress wall, old houses, national restaurants and a panoramic view of the sea.

Only 2 churches remain active in Sozopol today. The Church of St. George, built in 1828 on the site of an early Christian basilica, is considered the largest in the city. Its unique marble altar was inherited by the church from an ancient temple built in this very place in 330 on the ruins of a Thracian sanctuary.

The Church of St. Zosima was built in the middle of the 19th century. on the ruins of a medieval temple. It is believed that Zosimus was a local medieval martyr, and therefore he is still very popular in Sozopol.

In honor of the patroness of the city, the Most Holy Theotokos, in 1969 the Church of the Holy Mother of God was restored in the city. Built in the 17th century, it is now a cultural monument under the protection of UNESCO.

It is the day of the icon of the Mother of God – July 18 – that is celebrated in Sozopol as the day of the city.

Other sights of Sozopol include the “Old School” of the fishmonger Dimitar Laskaridis, which today houses an art gallery, the house-museum of Alexander Mutafov, one of the first Bulgarian marine painters, “House with the Sun” by Anna Trendafilova, “Grandmother’s House” by Kukulisa Hadzhinikolova, where the editorial office of the local newspaper, the house of Marietta Stefanova, the house of Kreanoolui, the house of Lina Psaryanova (now the Stenata restaurant), the Metropolitan House (now a medical center) and many other buildings of the 18th-19th centuries, which are under state protection, are located.

Developments

Once a year Sozopol turns into a magical place with a breathtaking artistic atmosphere. In early September, there is a 10-day arts festival in honor of the god Apollo. Bulgarian and foreign artists, artists, singers, musicians, poets, dancers and spectators from all over the country come to the resort town to watch theatrical performances, films, art and photo exhibitions, folk dances, listen to songs and literary readings.

Sozopol, Bulgaria

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Tulum, Mexico https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/tulum-mexico/ Mon, 21 Nov 2022 12:41:49 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8219 Tulum is an amazing place on the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, which consists of three parts: the ruins of the old Mayan city – the main “feature” of these places, the Indian village of Tulum Pueblo and the tourist and entertainment area, which stretches along the road and the Caribbean Sea for several kilometers. The town itself is small (15 thousand inhabitants) and nothing particularly remarkable, except for ancient monuments. But the hotels and beaches here are some of the best in Mexico. Check jibin123 for customs regulations and visa requirements of Mexico.

How to get there

Tulum can be reached from Cancun or from Playa del Carmen. Approximately every hour there is a bus from the station in Cancun, you will spend about 2 hours (135 km) and 220-280 MXN on it. You can also take a rural delivery van (“collectivo” van) for 100 MXN. Along the way, buses make stops at archaeological parks.

If you want to see the ruins of the ancient city, you need to get off at the first stop in Tulum – at the crossroads, from where the 1.5 km long road to the ruins begins. Another option is to order a taxi for 80 MXN or rent a car. From Playa del Carmen you can also take a bus (60 MXN) or a collective (50 MXN).

Transportation

To get around Tulum, you can take a taxi or rent a car, but I must say that the town is so small that it is easier and more interesting to walk around it or rent a bike (150 MXN), almost everyone rides them here – both locals and tourists.

Tulum beaches

The beaches in Tulum are excellent and generally considered the best in Mexico: tropical nature, sheer cliffs, fine white sand, clear turquoise water and amazingly beautiful underwater world, for which, in fact, divers love these places. Romance, exoticism, archeology and village life are combined here – it turned out to be an excellent cocktail!

Shopping and shops

Almost all shops, souvenir shops, department stores and supermarkets are located along the main street of the city – Avenida Tulum. You have to bargain with the locals (if you know Spanish, it will work), the price can be reduced by two, or even two and a half times, especially if you buy a lot in one store. The Indians surrender in a couple of minutes, the Mexicans stand to the death and, with an offended look, can give in just a little.

There are a lot of jewelry stores in Tulum – just darkness, darkness. The prices are reasonable, the quality too, and if something doesn’t fit, they will adjust it before your eyes – in general, it’s impossible to resist.

You can buy all the necessary products at the Super San Francisco Food Mart, where they also sell chilled food storage rooms – you will always have cool drinks and food on the beach.

Tulum Hotels

Despite the fact that the town is small, tourism is 200% organized, and there are a huge number of hotels here. Basically, they are all small (from 5 to 20 rooms) and very cozy – in general, almost home conditions. Almost all hotels are located on the coast with a gorgeous view of the ocean, but there are hotels in the city itself – close to restaurants and entertainment venues. Prices start from 170 MXN per night (in private villas and bungalows), the average price of hotels is 1400-1700 MXN for a double room.

Cuisine and restaurants

Cuisine in Tulum is mostly Mexican, but in general – whatever you want. Meals are well organized in hotels, but if you want, you can (and should) look into local restaurants. By the way, catering in the city is much cheaper than in the resort area – for 150-200 MXN you can eat normally.

One of the best Mexican restaurants is Don Cafetos. At Mezzanine, you can taste Thai cuisine on a sheer cliff 12 meters high, and for Italian dishes, it’s better to go to Posada Margherita. But for the best ice cream and desserts, experienced tourists unanimously send to Panna e Cioccolato. El Asadero has excellent dishes on an open fire – they cook right in front of your eyes.

In the evening, it’s time to visit local bars: listen to live music, see live dances and try spicy drinks. At Teetotum you can also watch movies right on the roof at weekends, at Ak’iin you will be pleased with performances of local DJs and fun parties. One of the most luxurious establishments in Tulum is Sky Bar with a real palm garden on the roof, be sure to visit there.

Pyramids and ruins of Tulum

The word “tulúm” is translated from the Yucatec language as “fence” or “wall”. This is understandable: located right on the coast, the ancient city is fenced on all sides by fortress walls 3-5 meters high and up to 8 meters thick and sheer cliffs. In these places, many buildings from the Mayan civilization remained – this is the main attraction. From some of the ruins one can only guess what was there, others are very well preserved. In general, buildings made of giant slabs do not fit into the framework of generally accepted history – even with the use of modern technology, it is very difficult to build something like this. How this could have been done a few thousand years ago is a question.

In the old town are the ruins of residential buildings, watchtowers and the Castillo fortress. Among all the buildings, the Temple of Frescoes with two galleries, which is dedicated to the “Descending God” of the Maya, and is filled with sculptures and frescoes, stands out in particular. The ruins of the old city are located 3 km from Tulum Pueblo. You can order a taxi (from 70 MXN), but many ride bicycles – 20 minutes with a breeze along a beautiful road, and you are there, besides, you can drive right up to the ruins themselves.

You will have to leave your car in a paid parking lot (50-120 MXN) and walk to the ruins or rent a minibus that will take you from the entrance directly to the ruins for 20 MXN.

The archaeological complex is open from 8:00 to 16:30, so it is best to arrive either early in the morning or already before closing, because the Babylonian pandemonium takes place here during the day. Entrance to the complex – 65 MXN, if they notice a video camera, they can charge an additional fee, you can also hire a guide here.

Another attraction of Tulum, in addition to the chic sea and beach, is the cave systems and cenotes, of which there are a great many. The beauty is indescribable, so you should definitely visit them, and stalactites and stalagmites can be seen underwater, for example, in the Gran Cenote. Entrance – 150 MXN, rental of a mask and fins – 100 MXN.

Tulum, Mexico

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Sights of Salzburg, Austria https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/sights-of-salzburg-austria/ Mon, 14 Nov 2022 08:39:50 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8217 According to LIUXERS, Salzburg is the fourth largest city in Austria, a country located in Central Europe. Salzburg is best known as the birthplace of world-famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The city, located in the north of Austria, is also rich in a great treasure of baroque buildings. Partly because of this, the entire inner city of Salzburg is on the Unesco World Heritage List. Salzburg is also a great destination for beer lovers, because the city has several good breweries that of course have their own drinking rooms here. Those who visit Salzburg can easily enjoy themselves for a day or two or three, because although the city is quite compact, there is a lot to see and do.

Salzburg ‘s top 10 sights

#1. Salzburg Cathedral Salzburg
‘s very first basilica was built in the year 774, after which it was replaced by the current Salzburg Cathedral in 1611 due to the destruction of fire. With its overwhelming appearance and twin towers, it dominates a beautiful place in the old town. The impressive interior with a beautiful dome is decorated in baroque style. The whole was designed by the Italian Renaissance architect Vincenzo Scamozzi and Santino Solari. The sound produced by the bell towers with seven bells is regarded as the most beautiful in Austria.

#2. Benedictine Abbey of St. Peter
In Salzburg, this beautiful monastery is called the Stift Sankt Peter. It is possibly the oldest monastery in Austria. The accompanying old library with 800 very valuable manuscripts is also called the oldest in the country. The monastery was founded in AD 696 to provide a home for missionary work in the Alps. The inside of this monastery is truly breathtaking. The library, for example, is of unprecedented class.

#3. Mozart’s Birth
House On the prestigious and important shopping street Gertreidegasse, stands the special birth house of the famous composer Mozart. This street, which is also part of the Hagenauerplatz, used to be mainly inhabited by wealthy citizens such as doctors, merchants and craftsmen. At the beginning of the street is a house with a clock tower. This is the house where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart first saw the light in 1756.

#4. Hohensalzburg Fortress
The Hohensalzburg Fortress, which can be reached by cable car, is located on top of the Festungsberg. The castle has a width of 150 meters and is at least 250 meters long. This makes it one of the largest medieval castles in Europe. Much of the princely furniture can still be found in the “golden hall and golden rooms”. A cable car departs every 10 minutes from the city center to the beautiful fortress.

#5. Residential house family Von Trapp
On the Traunstraße you will find the house of the musical family Von Trap from the Sound of Music. The famous house has an aftertaste because the SS leader Heinrich Himmler lived here for a number of years. Today, the building is managed by the Villa Trapp Foundation and is, among other things, a special wedding location.

#6. Mirabel Castle
Beneath the beautiful Hohensalzburg Fortress lies a majestic garden. This piece of estate is called Slot Mirabel or Schloss Mirabel. This work of art was created in 1606 by Archbishop Wolf Dietrich Raitenau. The garden has a beautiful collection of historical statues. Most statues are mythical figures such as Hercules and Pluton. It is possible that some parts of the estate look familiar. A number of scenes from the Sound of Music were filmed here.Sound of Music BustourA fun way to follow in the footsteps of Maria von Trapp is to join the Sound of Music Bus Tour. In a 4-hour tour you will visit the Mirabell Gardens, the Gazebo/Hellbrunn Palace, the Palace of Leopoldskron, the Nonnberg Abbey and the St. Gilgen/Wolfgang Lake. Scenes for The Sound of Music were shot at these locations. This bus tour is very popular, so booking in advance is recommended. Go to the info and reservation page for the Sound of Music Bus Tour

#7. The Old Market
Right in the center of Salzburg is the spacious Old Market. Since the 13th century, this market has been the commercial center of the city. The square is surrounded by a number of stately buildings, most of which date from the Middle Ages. Many parties that are organized in the city take place on this square.

#8. Schloss Hellbrunn
On a beautiful estate on the southern outskirts of Salzburg lies the incredibly beautiful Schloss Hellbrunn. This castle and park were designed and built under the direction of the famous Santino Solari, who is also responsible for the equally beautiful Salzburg Cathedral. The very spacious park has a number of fun and unique water features, some of which are hidden in caves. You will also find a number of impressive statues from the 17th century scattered throughout the park.

#9. Judengasse
The main shopping area of ​​the state takes place at the famous Hagenauerplatz which runs in the Jewish part of the city. Here you will find many nice shops with chocolate, souvenirs and boutiques with fashion labels. The narrow streets give you the memory of walking in a historic center with many beautiful facades and stories.

#10. Pferdeschwemme
At the Kapitelplatz, which lies between the St. Peter Abbey and the Cathedral of Salzburg, there are two large horse washing places. Archbishop Wolf Dietrich’s horses were washed here, among other things. The associated stables and the Pferdeschwemmen were designed and built by Fischer von Erlach.

Salzburg, Austria

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Sights of Lake Constance, Germany https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/sights-of-lake-constance-germany/ Mon, 07 Nov 2022 08:13:49 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8215 Lake Constance, or as we should say in Dutch, Lake Constance, is a lake in the border area between Switzerland, Austria and Germany. The lake can be divided into two parts: the Obersee and the Untersee. Of these two, the Obersee is by far the largest. Most of Lake Constance is on German territory, so it’s no surprise that most of the sights and towns are located in this part. The history of man and Lake Constance goes all the way back to prehistoric times. At that time, people already lived permanently on Lake Constance in stilt houses. Replicas of these houses can still be seen in the town of Unteruhldingen, which has an open-air museum. Later the Celtic tribes, the Romans and Merovingen would settle on the shores of the lake. Later, the Benedictines on the island of Reichenau would have an important influence on the places around the lake. They had several churches and castles built, some of which still exist today. Several inscriptions on the UNESCO World Heritage List can be found around Lake Constance.

According to JIBIN123, Lake Constance is one of the most popular holiday areas in the south of Germany. During the summer months, the towns and cities on Lake Constance are filled with tourists. Most popular tourist destinations are Meersburg, Konstanz and Friedrichshafen. There is a remarkable amount of bicycle tourism around Lake Constance. A bike ride around Lake Constance is high on the wish list of many cycling enthusiasts.

Top 10 sights of Lake Constance

#1. Friedrichshafen

Friedrichshafen is one of the most beautiful and nicest towns on Lake Constance. The town is located on the northern bank of the lake in the German state of Bavaria. The most famous landmark of Friedrichshafen is the Zeppelin Museum. At the airport of Friedrichshafen you have the possibility to make a trip with a zeppelin. This unique experience takes you over all the famous sights of Lake Constance. Friedrichshaven is also known for its beautiful long promenade, which runs past several beautiful buildings and museums and ends at the castle church. From the Moleturm (pier tower) you have a beautiful view over Friedrichshafen and Lake Constance.

#2. Constance

Konstanz is the largest town on Lake Constance. The city is located on the German southern shore of Lake Constance on the border with Switzerland. It is one of the few German cities that escaped the destruction during the Second World War, leaving Konstanz to a large extent with an authentic historic center. Main sights are the Rheintorturm, the Münster Church of Konstanz and the Konzilgebäude of Konstanz. The latter building is one of the oldest surviving buildings in southern Germany. This former warehouse played an important role during the Council of Constance, which brought an end to the era of three popes. Constanceis large enough to serve as a city trip destination during a holiday on Lake Constance, especially if you combine it with a visit to the flower island of Mainau.

#3. Mainau

The flower island of Mainau is the most visited attraction on Lake Constance. Millions of visitors come every year in the summer months to admire the flower-bathed island. You can take a ferry to the island from various places on Lake Constance. If you prefer not to sail, you can also reach the island by car via a bridge. Mainau is owned by the noble Bernadotte family, who have opened their island to the public for many decades. On the island you will come across beautifully landscaped gardens and an arboretum. Highlights of a visit are the dahlia gardens and the butterfly garden.

#4. Meersburg

Meersburg is one of the most beautiful and well-known wine villages on Lake Constance. As a result, the village has become one of the busiest places on Lake Constance. Most of the visitors arrive at the harbor by ferry. In this part of the village, you will find the Meersburg promenade and a small shopping street. Most of the sights in Meersburg can be found in the upper town. Here you will find the old and the new castle of Meersburg, you will come across beautiful half-timbered houses and you have an impressive view over Lake Constance. Here you will also find Staatsweingut Meersburg, one of the most famous winemakers on Lake Constance. In the restaurant next to the shop you can taste the different wines from Meersburg.

#5. Reichenau

Reichenau is an island and a municipality in Lake Constance. The island is best known for the Benedictine Abbey of Reichenau. This abbey was founded in the eighth century and soon grew into a powerful abbey with possessions in various places on Lake Constance. These Benedictines most likely created the first vineyards on the shores of Lake Constance. The abbey was raised in the eighteenth century. Now the island and the monastery is one of the main tourist sites in the area. The entire island is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Because some of the finest examples of early medieval monastic architecture can be found on the island of Reichenau.

#6. Stilt House Museum

The Pile Dwelling Museum or Pfahlbaumuseum is the open-air museum of Unteruhldingen. The first stilt houses were built at the beginning of the last century and there are now twenty-three stilt houses made of reed, loam and wood. The houses contain all kinds of archaeological finds that have been found around Lake Constance in recent decades. The various stilt houses are connected to each other with wooden scaffolding. The pile dwellings as they can be seen in the museum are an exact reconstruction of the pile dwellings that could be found in several places in the Alps in prehistoric times and are now on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

#7. Zeppelin Museum

The history of Friedrichshafen is inextricably linked with the zeppelin. After Graf Zeppelin, who lives in Konstanz, received the patent for the Zeppelin, the first Zeppelin factory was built in Friedrichshafen. The old train station now houses a zeppelin museum. Part of the famous Hindenburg zeppelin has been recreated in the museum to show how luxurious air travel was at the beginning of the last century. In other rooms and areas you will learn everything about the technology that was used in zeppelins. It is a nice complete exhibition, which gives a good picture of the life of the upper class during the Interbellum.

#8. Schaffhausen

The Swiss town of Schaffhausen is just a little upstream, where the Rhine fills Lake Constance. Technically, Schaffhausen is not located on Lake Constance, but close enough to end up in this top 10. Schaffhussen is best known for its waterfall, the Rhine Falls. This is the largest waterfall in Europe, through which an average of 600 cubic meters per second flows in the summer months. At the waterfall you can take a boat trip, or admire the natural violence from one of the two platforms. Munot Castle is located in Schafhussen. This sixteenth-century fortress was built as a bastion, but is now used as an event location.

#9. Lindau am Insel

Lindau Islandis the historic part of the town of Lindau, which can be found on an island in Lake Constance. The island is with the dam and a bridge with the mainland, making it officially no longer an island. Due to its location on the island, Lindau’s historic center is small and compact, so you can walk through it in a few hours. During this walk, you will encounter various sights and museums. The most beautiful and busiest street in Lindau is Maximilianstrasse. Most of the terraces and shops can be found in this street. Here you will also come across the historic town hall of Lindau. The beautifully painted facade is not to be missed. Other important sights in Lindau are the Mangturm, the Diebsturm and the Münster Unserer Lieben Frau.

#10. Bregenz

Bregenz is the largest town in the Austrian part of Lake Constance in the state of Voralberg. About 30,000 people live in the town. Like many other places on Lake Constance, Bregenz has a small historic center with several half-timbered houses and part of the old city walls are still intact. One of the most beautiful buildings in the historic center is the Martinsturm, a Baroque tower that was part of the court of the Counts of Bregenz. From the center of Bregenz you can take a lift to the top of the Pfänder, a mountain of just over a thousand meters. From this mountain you have a beautiful view of Lake Constance on one side and the Alps on the other. The Bregenzer Festspiele is held every year in July and August.

Lake Constance, Germany

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Western Sahara Politics, Economy and Population https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/western-sahara-politics-economy-and-population/ Sun, 30 Oct 2022 10:45:09 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8213 Politics

Since the country has no official status, it is treated as a “non-governmental country” by the United Nations. Morocco is a constitutional monarchy and therefore this status is often attributed to Western Sahara as well. The Moroccan government gives large subsidies to the development of the Moroccan parts of the Western Sahara, divided into provinces.

The SADR has only one political party, the Polisario Front, but the number of parties is expected to grow after the liberation. The party’s office is located in the Tindouf refugee camp in Algeria. It has declared the part east of the Moroccan part a “free zone” patrolled by UN units.

Western Sahara and Kosovo

As a country starting with letter W according to Countryaah, Western Sahara has recognized the Republic of Kosovo, but has expressed outrage that the world’s newest country is being recognized by so many countries and receiving so much media attention, while the African semi-state has not been recognized by any country for more than 15 years (with the exception of the 45s) and hardly any attention is paid to it.

Human rights

Because of the conflict in Western Sahara, the human rights of the population are violated. Much of the native population of the former Spanish colony was evicted from the country and tens of thousands of Moroccans were also driven out of Algeria. During the years of the war (1975 – 1991), both sides in the conflict accused each other of violating human rights. Morocco accuses the “Front Polisario” of terrorist acts against the population and makes the USA, the EU and the UN accept the party as a terrorist organization, which never happened. The Polisario condemns Morocco for violence against the Sahrawis (the indigenous population of Western Sahara) by the Moroccan monarchy. It is this monarchy that also blames Algeria for its support of Western Sahara.

Many international human rights organizations have condemned Morocco’s actions in the “torn republic “. One of them is “Reporters without borders”. “Front Polisario” has been criticized by the French organization France Libertes.

Administrative division

Western Sahara is considered the territory of Morocco. The official name his government calls the country is the Southern Province. It is divided into 2 parts – Rio de Oro and Saguia al-Hamra. The “free zone”, which is considered SADR territory, is patrolled by UN and Moroccan troops.

The Polisario Congress and the Sahrawi National Committee hold their meetings in the “Free Zone”. During the celebrations for the 30th anniversary of the founding of the SADR, UN forces were sent in in case of clashes. The daily demonstrations at the Moroccan Wall (separating SADR from the Moroccan Western Sahara) are mostly by Spaniards, Italians and other European nations under UN supervision.

Economics

Apart from phosphates and fish fauna, Western Sahara has almost no resources. The business is entirely controlled by Morocco, and the food is imported. There are suggestions that there are huge deposits of natural gas and oil along the coast, and some suggest that this is precisely the reason why Morocco does not want to “liberate” the country.

Population

Western Sahara is one of the most sparsely populated areas in the world, consisting mainly of desert plains. The largest city is El Ayoun and it is home to the majority of the territory’s population. The Sahrawis are the main and indigenous population of the Western Sahara. There are also many nomadic Bedouins and Moors. The population as of 2004 is 267,000 people, of which 160,000 are from the Moroccan army, living here to maintain stability in the republic. The Moroccan government is sending many people to Western Sahara – the so-called “Moroccanization”. According to data from 2000year the population of Western Sahara grows by 2.29% every year. There are 16.11 deaths per 1,000 people, while births are 45.07 per thousand. The main languages ​​spoken are Arabic, local languages ​​and Spanish.

Cities in Western Sahara

Name Population
Translation Arabic 1994 census 2004 census
Ел Аюн (The Laâyoune) in Arabic : العيون 136,950 183,691
Dakhla in Arabic : الداخلة 29 831 58 104
Smara (Semara) in Arabic : السمارة 28 750 40 347
Cape Beaujadour (Cabo Beaujadour) in Arabic : بو جدور 15 167 36 843
El Marsa in Arabic : المرسى 4334 10 229
House 2940 8769
Al Mahbas 1193 7331
Guelta Zemur 4716 6740
One Anzarane 867 6597
Tichla 290 6036
Auserd 672 5832
The country of Aargub 1374 5345
Laguirera 509 3726
Boo Graa No data 2519
Lemseid No data No data

Communications in Western Sahara

Telephone posts – about 2000 (data from 1999)

Mobile phones – 0 (data from 1999)

Radio receivers – about 60,000 (data from 2000)

Television receivers – about 6000 (data from 1997)

Culture

The culture in Western Sahara is really diverse – each tribe has its own customs and traditions, but in general the country has “adopted” the Moroccan traditions and therefore part of the population professes Islam. In recent years, there have been large investments to the country from the Moroccan side for the development of culture, a large part of them going to El Ayoun for modernization and infrastructure projects.

Western Sahara Politics

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Best time to visit Trier and Nuremberg, Germany https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/best-time-to-visit-trier-and-nuremberg-germany/ Tue, 27 Sep 2022 05:54:25 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8194 Best time to visit Trier

Do you want to know when is the best time to travel to Trier? You can determine the best time to travel to a destination based on the weather and climate. In addition, there are other factors that are not directly related to the weather and that can influence the best travel periods for a travel destination. Think, for example, of holidays or festive periods, which makes traveling more interesting or not, because daily life comes to a standstill as a result. According to ACT-TEST-CENTERS, Trier is the oldest city in Germany (together with Worms) and is therefore an important tourist attraction. The Romans founded this city in 16 BC under the name Augusta Treverorum. At some point, the city grew into the capital of the Western Roman Empire. A few remains from this period can be seen such as the Roman amphitheater and the Porta Nigra. This ‘Black Gate’ is a beautiful example of a building from that period and is important for the city from a touristic point of view.

The best months for Trier

You can visit Trier all year round. As with many city trip destinations, Trier also enjoys pleasant weather that contributes to the total experience. Preferably you walk through the streets of Trier at a pleasant temperature and if possible sunny weather. Nobody likes to walk outside during heavy rain showers. You have the greatest chance of good weather in the period from May to September. That is therefore the best travel time for a day trip to or holiday in Trier. The chance of a beautiful day with mainly sun is greater during this period than the chance of less good weather. Precipitation falls every month of the year anyway. In the summer you will have to deal with a fierce summer rain shower, which can be accompanied by a thunderstorm. The temperatures in the middle of summer are on average well above twenty degrees. If you look at the long-term climate statistics, you will see that the maximums in July and August are around 23-24 degrees. Thanks to climate change, it is becoming increasingly common that it is getting warmer. The number of summer days (at least 25 degrees) has increased to 38 per year in the first two decades of the 21st century. In addition, Trier has an average of three to seven tropical days a year. The criterion for this is a maximum temperature of at least 30 degrees Celsius.

Best time to visit Nuremberg

Do you want to know when is the best time to travel to Nuremberg? You can determine the best time to travel to a destination based on the weather and climate. In addition, there are other factors that are not directly related to the weather and that can influence the best travel periods for a travel destination. Think, for example, of holidays or festive periods, which makes traveling more interesting or not, because daily life comes to a standstill as a result. For many Dutch people, Nuremberg is mainly a name that appears on road signs along routes to the Czech Republic, Austria and the countries in the Balkans. Anyone driving on the Autobahn A3 towards the Alps will pass Nuremberg at some point. If you’re smart, you won’t drive through here, but make a stopover. The location of Nuremberg in relation to the Netherlands makes this city a perfect place to plan an overnight stay. That is something that is done quite often: just a day in Nuremberg on the way to the holiday destination or on the way home. Those who do so will be rewarded with a beautiful historic city center, which is partly walled with the original city walls. Other attractions include Nuremberg Castle and the Germanisches Nationalmuseum. In front of the museum is the ‘Straße der Menschenrechte’,

The best months for Nuremberg

Although Nuremberg is exciting enough every month of the year, the city is at its best when the sun is shining. At pleasant temperatures it is best to stay in this fascinating city. That is why the period from May to September is the best time to travel to Nuremberg. As far as the temperature is concerned, you are almost certainly right. In the summer months of June, July and August you can count on average maximum temperatures of about 20 to 26 degrees, with the occasional peak. May and September are on average slightly cooler with about 19 to 20 degrees, but certainly pleasant.

Christmas market

If there is another travel period that is recommended for Nuremberg, it is from the end of November to December 24. Then the local Christmas market is held in Nuremberg, which is called Christkindlesmarkt here. The Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt is considered one of the best Christmas markets in Germany. If you want to visit Nuremberg during this period, you have to count on higher hotel room prices. Booking your room in time can avoid disappointment.

Nuremberg, Germany

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Resorts of Turkey https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/resorts-of-turkey/ Mon, 15 Aug 2022 14:10:41 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8178 Turkish resorts for beach holidays – Antalya, Kemer, Kas, Olympos, Belek, Side, Alanya, Kekova Island, Marmaris, Icmeler, Fethiye, Bodrum, Kusadasi.
Ski resorts in Turkey – Uludag, Kartalkaya, Palandoken, Sarykamysh.
Medical health resorts in Turkey (with hot healing springs) – Pamukkale, Yalova.
Attractions. In Istanbul – Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Ahmediye Square, Dolmabahce Palace, Bosphorus Bridge.
In Cappadocia (Cappadocia is a region in Central Anatolia, one of the most visited places in Turkey) – the village of Goreme, the city of Chad, the Ihlara Gorge, the underground (up to 60 m underground) cities of Derinkuya and Kaymakli.
People come to Marmaris looking for entertainment, because it is a lively youth resort. In numerous clubs and bars it is always fun, rhythmic music plays. The city has an excellent geographical position, colorful views and a mild subtropical climate. It is hot and humid in summer and cool and rainy in winter. From May to October, rain is unlikely. Rest in this resort can be classified as a budget.

First of all, Turkey is famous for its resorts: Antalya, Kemer, Belek, Side, Alanya, Izmir, Marmaris, Bodrum, Fethiye.
One of the prettiest resorts in Turkey is Bodrum, built on the ruins of ancient Helikornas. The main activities here are rowing, swimming, scuba diving. And Bodrum is famous for its stormy and noisy life at any time of the day.

According to WATCHTUTORIALS, Istanbul is a port, the economic and industrial center of the country, among the sights are St. Sophia (Austua), the Sultan’s Topkapi Palace with the famous harem.
As well as museums – antiquity, conquerors, oriental antiquities, Turkish and Muslim art, etc. the church of St. Irene, the choral monastery church, the church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, as well as mosques – Ahmed (Blue Mosque), Mikrimakhi, Selim, the Conqueror, Bayazid, Suleiman, Eyup and others, underground palaces-reservoirs, the remains of a Byzantine fortress.
And, if the opportunity presents itself, be sure to visit Istanbul. Without a doubt, this city is today the cultural capital of Turkey. Indulge yourself in pleasure, take a walk around Istanbul on foot – especially since most of the historical monuments are located on the same territory or smoothly merge into each other.

Many architectural monuments of various eras are located throughout Turkey – Troy, Miletus, Prisna, Didyma, Konya, the ruins of Pergamum, Ephesus, the port of Borrus, Cappadocia, the Bosphorus, the Uludag mountains, the Tuz salt lake, Pamukkale, Mount Ararat, extinct volcanoes Syupkhan, Aladag and Nemrud and much more.

Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is interesting for the Byzantine citadel of Hisar and the Anatolia Museum, as well as the mausoleum of Atatürk. However, there is still a huge number of monuments of architecture and history around. Despite the status of the capital, Ankara has a lot of relatively inexpensive hotels in the old part of the city.

Antalya – this is the youngest resort in the country – the entertainment industry is superbly developed, including several water parks, amusement parks, clubs, casinos, etc. The secret of the popularity of the city is also in the harmonious combination of ancient and modern in Antalya. Being a fully developed and modern city, Antalya is surrounded by the ruins of dead cities, some of which are archaeological excavations, and to the east of Antalya are the beaches once chosen by Antony and Cleopatra for their romantic dates.

Interesting places in Turkey

The article briefly describes less popular, but no less interesting places for recreation and cities in Turkey. A few words about what souvenirs they buy. At the end, advice is given to women on how to protect themselves from the harassment of Turkish men.

Turkey is one of the most favorite holiday destinations for Russians. About 7 million tourists visit the country every year. The most popular resorts are Antalya, Marmaris, Kemer and Bodrum. Vacationers who have been there more than once can be advised to go to other interesting places in Turkey. For example, in the port town of Cesme, which is famous for its cleanest beaches and the best spa hotels. There are healing underground springs with thermal and mineral water. Walking along the beach, you can admire the local attractions – the monuments of ancient Pergamum, Izmir and Ephesus. Excursion to Cappadocia will leave incredible impressions. The panorama of the valley resembles real space landscapes, similar to the landscape from the Star Wars movie. The thing is that the winds destroy the mountains over time, and an unusual relief is created, resembling stone mushrooms. The locals still believe that ancient spirits dwell here. You can see all this beauty from a height by ordering a flight in a hot air balloon.

You can have a great rest, and at the same time buy souvenirs in Mersin – the pearl of the Mediterranean. Here is the longest street in Europe – the New Embankment, it is built up with restaurants and shops. Most often, tourists buy here leather goods, sweets, byuryumdzhik silk, pine honey, onyx jewelry, carpets, bamboo and cotton products. In Mersin, you should definitely visit the fish market. After such shopping, you can relax on a sandy beach near the mountains, the tops of which are covered with snow.

A unique competition of folk poets-singers ashiks can be seen annually in Konya. Participants perform with national musical instruments – sazs and sing impromptu love songs. Here you can also see ancient monuments, see the tomb of the famous oriental poet Rumi, sit in a caravanserai, enjoy oriental sweets and real coffee. The city has many mosques, as it is considered the center of Islam.

Going to different cities and villages in Turkey, it is worth remembering that communication with the Turks has its own characteristics. Women should be especially careful, because by following a number of simple rules, you can protect yourself from obsessive harassment. In Turkey, dress is generally European, but short skirts and transparent clothes are unacceptable, they unnecessarily attract men. Turkish men love to shower all girls and women with beautiful compliments. A smile in response to them is a call for further action. It is best to calmly thank and say goodbye, this will cause respect and most likely the man will apologize.
It is worth remembering that gestures are different in Russia and Turkey. A simple gesture meaning “Class!” is regarded here as sexual desire.

Rest in the country where Europe and Asia meet will in any case become unforgettable for you and all tourists dream of returning here again and again, because here they are met every time by hospitable Turkey, which seems completely unfamiliar.

Resorts of Turkey

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Resorts and Leisure in Singapore https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/resorts-and-leisure-in-singapore/ Sun, 07 Aug 2022 17:48:48 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8174 Singapore
In this city, cultures and traditions of different nations are very closely intertwined. Singapore is rich in Chinese and Indian shopping districts, which also attracts tourists from all over the world. A tourist can visit Singapore parks, as well as botanical gardens, made in Chinese and Japanese traditions. For tourists in the city center, on the banks of the Singapore River, there is a comfortable hotel that includes all amenities. In recent years, Singapore has flourished and gradually transformed from a city of pearl divers and opium traders into a metropolis of glass and concrete.

Sentosa
The island, located 15 minutes from Singapore, is rightfully considered the resort center of the state. There is a bicycle track along the entire perimeter of Sentosa, and everyone can rent bicycles here. Luxury hotels, historical landmarks, a unique 100-meter underwater tunnel – all this can be seen and felt on the resort island of Sentosa. Fort Siliso is another interesting object from a tourist point of view, occupying 4 hectares of area, which includes the entire complex of water activities.

Bintan
According to VAULTEDWATCHES, Bintan Island is located in the Indonesian archipelago, where there is no such fuss and tension as in Singapore, located about 45 minutes from the resort. On the island you can truly understand what a real beach and the cleanest sea are. Bintan, thanks to a highly developed tourist infrastructure, is rightfully considered a resort in Singapore. Everything here is created for the benefit of vacationers: golf courses of the highest quality, all kinds of SPA complexes and many, many sports entertainments. The main resorts are located in the northern part of the island, on the coast of the South Korean Sea.

Visiting restaurants and bars
Fans of Indian and Chinese cuisine will love visiting restaurants in Singapore, of which there are more than 600. Most of these establishments are located in the capital of the state. Almost all restaurants are at a high world level. You can indulge in a wide variety of culinary delights, as well as try cocktails and juices made from fresh exotic fruits. In addition, every year, in July, special tasting festivals are held here, in which everyone can take part.

Relax on the beach
You can relax and plunge into the world of the sun on the beaches of Sentosa Island. No less amazing sandy places are located in the capital of Singapore. Sentosa Island is rich in white sandy beaches that stretch for 3 km. For swimming and relaxing on these beaches, everything necessary for the benefit of tourists has been created. The beaches abound with specially equipped playgrounds. Nearby is a comfortable hotel. If you like to bask in the sun and run on the hot sand, and then plunge into the warm sea waters, then a trip to Singapore will provide an unforgettable experience.

Golf
Specially equipped golf courses are scattered all over the outskirts of the nearby corners of Singapore. This kind of sport and entertainment is characteristic of the area like no other. Golf courses are monitored and maintained by qualified specialists. There is everything you need for golf, so everyone can try themselves in this sport. You can also have fun playing golf on the island of Sentosa, and in Singapore, as well as on the nearby island of Bintan. And the favorable location of the fields (near the beaches) will help create such a lovely combination with a beach holiday.

Aquapark
This marvel of modern architectural thought is located on Sentosa Island. The water park is called “Island of Fantasy”, this original name is certainly suitable for it, because such a thing can only be imagined. And you can get into this “wonder of the world” through an 83-meter transparent tunnel. Walking along it, you will see about 6 thousand marine animals and fish. This entertainment will not leave indifferent any, even the most fastidious visitor.

Reminder for a tourist flying to Singapore

This is the cleanest country located in Southeast Asia, attracts tourists with a combination of modernity with long-term traditions. This amazing country of contrasts is located on the island of Singapore and its adjacent islands, not far from the Malay Peninsula.

The area of ​​the state is smaller than the area of ​​the capital of Russia, but the population density is one of the highest in the world. Quarters with temples, mosques, churches are ideally combined with the skyscrapers of modern megacities. Singapore abounds with everything you need for a holiday. There are golf courses, as well as everything you need for water sports.

Thanks to the tropical monsoon climate, the temperature stays at around 30 degrees above zero all year round. It is worth noting a characteristic feature of this climate, which consists in a long rainy season that occurs here from November to February. This country is known for having the world’s largest zoo, which is replete with rare animal species. An untouched corner of the globe, the Bukit Tima Nature Reserve is also one of the countless features that attract tourists from all over the world.

Having been in Singapore, you can get the same emotions as in India or China, since these quarters have a place to be. The main resort of the country is Sentosa Island. Sunbathing, swimming, golfing or water sports – it’s all possible in Sentosa. Singapore is rich in all kinds of hotels, including five-star ones, and is ready to “take on board” a huge number of tourists. Having visited Singapore, the tourist is satisfied and takes away not only souvenirs, but also a lot of positive energy.

Leisure in Singapore

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Economy of Caracas, Venezuela https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/economy-of-caracas-venezuela/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 15:22:52 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8172 The city of Caracas is the center of the nation’s economic, administrative and financial activities. It is considered the seventh most influential financial center in Latin America [17] Located behind cities such as São Paulo, Bogotá, Santiago de Chile, Buenos Aires, Mexico City and Rio de Janeiro. It generates between 18 and 19 percent of the national GDP, being greater than the GDP of Croatia. Caracas is considered the Latin American capital that has the greatest impact on the cost of living on its population and is the 21st most expensive city in the world. [18]

It is the seat of the financial nucleus that includes the Central Bank of Venezuela, the Caracas Stock Exchange and the main headquarters of the most important banks in the country. Some of the main food, service and manufacturing companies in the country also reside there. The industrial sector within the city is relatively very low, while the service sector constitutes the largest percentage of its economy.

Also in the city is located the main headquarters of Petróleos de Venezuela (PDVSA), the largest company in the country, and there are also the main offices of Empresas Polar, the largest private company in the country and the largest producer of beverages and food. In Venezuela. [19] with a portfolio of leading and preferred brands [20] by consumers in the country. [21] [22] [23] [24] [25]

According to THENAILMYTHOLOGY, the Compañía Anónima Nacional Telefonos de Venezuela (CANTV), the country’s largest telecommunications company, also has its main headquarters in the city. As well as other companies in the tertiary sector and important commercial centers that constitute the main engine of its economy.

According to various studies carried out by the National Council for the Promotion of Investments (CONAPRI), Caracas is the city of Venezuela that stands out the most for its investment attraction index and, in the same way, for the size of its economy and its annual economic performance.

During the years of slowdown in the country’s purchasing power, Caracas faced the smallest drop, which kept it with the highest per capita income compared to any other city. It also stands out with a great advantage over other cities in the interior due to the degree of sophistication of the market, that is, it has a higher average than the national average for the number of homes with a computer and / or car. [26]

Although Caracas has the lowest unemployment rate in the country, below the national average (which is 7.4%). [27] A good part of its population works in the informal market, doing business on their own account. It is estimated that there are between 15,000 and 18,000 stands of street vendors in Caracas. Most sociologists agree that the informal economy is the consequence of an erroneous policy of job creation, and that in turn it has become an urban problem, since it anarchy the public space. It seeks to solve the problem of public order, but ignoring the conceptual basis and the socio-economic conditions that characterize a problem of a structural nature. [28]

Town planning

Caracas shares common ground with many Latin American cities: densely populated and limited in space because it is surrounded by mountains. Due to this, the city has grown vertically. A very striking aspect is the number of people who live in slums built on the mountain slopes that surround the city. This type of housing is called “ranchos”, built improvisedly, without any official planning, with deficiencies and with inadequate materials, marking a difference between those who live in the valley itself.

The city center, developed around a small historical center, represents less than a quarter of the total extension of the city, which has spread throughout the valley and has also been connected in recent years with satellite cities in the Miranda and Vargas States, creating an important Metropolitan Area known as Greater Caracas.

The rapid population growth of the city has resulted in a growing congestion in motor traffic. To this end, the underground transport system (Metro de Caracas) has been progressively expanded, which currently extends to Los Teques and Charallave, in the Valles del Tuy (Miranda), and a new extension is being built towards Guarenas and Guatire.

Some areas of the city have a grid layout, either inherited from the colony or developed during the urban projects of the 20th century. Other areas, raised on the mountain slopes, do not follow this pattern, but adapt to the irregularities of the terrain. These elevated areas enjoy a temperate temperature throughout the year.

Tall office and apartment buildings occupy much of the center and east of the city. The financial zone of Caracas is located in El Rosal, where office buildings and business centers abound, and where national and international companies have their headquarters. But in the center of Caracas (Libertador Municipality) are the headquarters of Banco Mercantil, Banco Provincial and Banco de Venezuela, three of the four most important banks in the country; in addition to housing the headquarters of the Central Bank of Venezuela. The headquarters of the most important public organizations are located in the center of the city, while the most important private companies, nightclubs and hotels are located in the east. The west and southeast are mainly residential, while the southwest has important industrial zones.

There are numerous hotels, guesthouses and residential buildings (apartments) in Caracas. We can find the Hotel Meliá, Hotel Eurobuilding, the Hotel Anauco Suites (before Hotel Anauco Hilton), the Hotel Marriott Caracas, the Alba Caracas (before Hotel Caracas Hilton), the Altamira Suites, the Caracas Palace Hotel (before Four Season’s Caracas), among many others.

Economy of Caracas, Venezuela

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Singapore Economy and Currency https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/singapore-economy-and-currency/ Mon, 25 Jul 2022 09:39:44 +0000 https://www.a2zcamerablog.com/?p=8170 Singapore is an island nation in Southeast Asia. City-state, one of the world’s leading capitals

Merlion – a statue of a half-fish-half-lion – a symbol of Singapore

The mild tropical climate and rich vegetation, an exotic mix of European chic and Asian customs, the openness and friendliness of the locals – that’s what makes Singapore so attractive for tourists.

The Republic of Singapore occupies about 50 islands, the largest of which is connected by a bridge across the Strait of Johor to Malaysia. Many small islands are uninhabited. Singapore lies just north of the equator, so the climate here is humid and hot. The country is unable to feed its large population. Nevertheless, Singapore has become one of the richest countries in Southeast Asia.

Almost all of Singapore’s rainforests have been cut down to make way for the construction of cities and industrial centers, and there is very little arable land left. The prosperity of the country is based on shipping, banking, electronic industry and international trade. According to legend, Singapore was founded by a Malay prince who landed on the island in 1299. The Chinese have settled here for centuries. From 1858 to 1959 the country was a British colony, and in 1963 became part of Malaysia. In 1965, Singapore became a sovereign state.

According to THEDRESSWIZARD, Singapore is an incredible blend of East and West, an amazing fusion of old and new. Nowhere else in the world can one find such green, shining clean streets; Singapore even got the name “Garden City”. Three great Asian cultures are represented here. In addition to the Chinese district, Singapore also has Little India, Arab Street and an area dominated by Malay culture.

The stories full of exoticism and vices about wartime Singapore are not entirely fair: there are not so many cycle rickshaws and not only are there no opium smokers on every corner, on the contrary, there are some of the most stringent laws prohibiting the distribution of drugs.

However, today’s Singapore is no less interesting than yesterday’s Singapore. Nothing breaks the living and dynamic unity of the past with the present in this city-state. In no other country in the world is the eternal drama of the departure of old societies, the replacement of old values ​​with new ones treated so easily and calmly as in Singapore.

Singaporean society lives by very strict laws. Here you can practice any religion, but it is forbidden to gamble and even chew gum. The personal freedoms of Singaporean citizens are limited, but there is the lowest crime rate in the world.

Economy

Thanks to its important strategic position at the crossroads of sea routes between Europe, Asia and Australia, Singapore has become one of the world’s leading trading centers. In relation to other countries of Southeast Asia, it traditionally plays the role of a “marketplace” – goods produced in neighboring countries arrive here – for example, rubber and tin from Malaysia, rice from Thailand, which are then sent to other regions. At the same time, industrial goods are brought here from the USA, Europe, Japan and distributed among neighboring countries. When these countries began to build seaports suitable for ships with large drafts, the importance of Singapore as a trading intermediary decreased. To compensate for the losses, the country’s government began to stimulate the development of its own industry, attracting foreign direct investment for this. Since Singapore does not have natural resources, manufacturing industries are developing mainly, as well as the assembly of products from imported finished parts. The chemical, oil refining, assembly electronic, radio and electrical engineering industries, as well as shipbuilding, are becoming of great importance. The tin-smelting industry and rubber processing have retained their importance on a regional scale. In the 1980s, Singapore began to develop knowledge-intensive industries, specializing in advanced technologies not only in manufacturing (upper floors of mechanical engineering), but also in the field of intellectual services (information, financial, technological, medical). Despite the presence of highly qualified and educated local personnel, there are relatively few national entrepreneurs in the country. Almost all investments and business initiatives come from abroad. Foreign investors are attracted by the presence of a highly skilled workforce, weak unions and political stability. The leading role in developing a development strategy and monitoring the implementation of indicative plans remains with the state.

Singapore has become a major financial center and a source of technical and commercial information for neighboring countries. After the discovery of oil and natural gas on the shelf off the coast of the Malay Peninsula in Singapore, the headquarters of energy companies were located.

In 2002, Singapore’s GDP was estimated at $112.4 billion, i.e. $25,200 per capita. GDP is divided by sectors: the industrial sector – 33%, other services – 67%.

Singapore is one of the world’s largest ports (second place in the world in terms of cargo turnover). It is equipped with berths for ships of various types, serves 250 lines and receives 150 ships daily. Singapore Airport is a major hub for international airlines, equipped for round-the-clock flights in all weather conditions. This is one of the most modern and comfortable airports in the world, and Singapore Airlines is trusted by passengers from all over the world. Singapore annually receives 6-8 million tourists.

National currency

The national currency of Singapore – the Singapore dollar – was first put into circulation in 1967, when there was a division of currencies between Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei. At the same time, free mutual exchange and free circulation of three new independent currencies in these territories was envisaged.

In a relatively short period of time, the Singapore dollar has become one of the strongest and most stable currencies in the world. Theoretically, the currency parity of the Singapore dollar, confirmed by the International Monetary Fund, corresponds to the gold content in it of 0.290299 g of pure gold.

Banknotes currently in circulation in Singapore are 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 500, 1000 and 10,000 sing. dollars series “Orchids”; banknotes in denominations I, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000 and 10000 sing. dollars of the series “Birds” and change coins of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents and 1 dollar. In addition, commemorative coins issued by the International Agricultural Organization (FAO) in denominations of 5 cents, silver coins in denominations of 5, 10 and 50 dollars are in circulation in Singapore. and gold coins in denominations of 100, 150, 250 and 500 salmon. Doll.

As of January 1991, 8 billion SGD were in circulation in Singapore. dollars, including 7.5 billion banknotes and 0.5 billion tokens. The Monetary Authority of Singapore has the monopoly right to issue money. The most popular in Singapore are banknotes in denominations of 10, 25,100, 500 and 1000 sing. USD In active circulation (excluding banking business) were 7.1 billion SGD. Doll.

The government of Singapore leads the policy of curbing the growth of the money supply in circulation by stimulating non-inflationary economic growth. Singapore is one of those countries where the inflation rate is quite low, which in recent years has been at the level of 2-3%, which is one of the best indicators in the world.

Significant income from the export of goods and services, large receipts from financial transactions, a positive balance of payments, and a rather low level of external debt led to the accumulation of significant gold and foreign exchange reserves. In the period from 1980 to 1990, Singapore’s gold and foreign exchange reserves increased by more than 3 times and reached 48.5 billion sing. dollars, which is higher. than in such developed countries as Great Britain, Holland, Sweden, Denmark, Australia in Kanawa.

The main part of gold and foreign exchange reserves (99%) is gold reserves in foreign currency, 0.6% – special borrowed rights (SDR) and 0.4% – reserve positions in the International Monetary Fund (IMF). According to experts, the share of gold in Singapore’s gold and foreign exchange reserves ranges from 15% to 20%, the US dollar accounts for 35-45%, the Japanese yen – 20-30%, the rest – for Western European currencies, mainly the German mark, the British pound sterling to swiss franc.

Singapore’s gold and foreign exchange reserves are held in international financial institutions as deposits.

In recent years, there has been a steady upward trend in the exchange rate of the Singapore dollar against the currencies of Singapore’s main trading partners.

Singapore Economy

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