Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a veritable Garden of Eden and a naturalist's heaven. The clean environment, roads, greenery as well as unpolluted fresh air attract all nature lovers. The tropical rain forests and waters of Bay of Bengal are the home of a vast collection of plant, animal and marine life. Topographically the islands are hilly in places fringed with coconut palm, covered with tropical jungle and interspersed with flat stretches of crescent shaped beaches. Adventure tourism like trekking, Island camping, snorkeling, SCUBA diving etc. and other water sports are the real attractions. A marvelous mix of nature's most precious delights, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a once in a lifetime holiday experience.

Islands-

Jolly Buoy

An island in Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, it offers a breath taking underwater view of coral and marine life. It is an ideal place for snorkeling, sea bathing and basking on the sun kissed beach.

Cinque Island

The lure of underwater coral gardens and unspoiled beaches specially a sand bar joining two islands are irresistible. Super place for SCUBA diving, swimming, fishing and Camping.

Red Skin Island

Another island in Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park has a nice beach and offers spectacular view of corals and marine life.

Havelock Island

About 38 Kms. from Port Blair, this island provides idyllic resort in the lap of virgin beach and unpolluted environment. A camping facility is available near Radhanagar beach. A guesthouse of Tourism Department "Dolphin Resort" is available for the tourists.

Barren Island

At a distance of about 135 Kms. from Port Blair is the land of volcano, Barren Island, the only active volcano in India. The Island, about 3 Kms. has a big crater of the volcano, rising abruptly from the sea, about 1/2 Km. from the shore and is about

150 fathoms deep. Can be visited on board vessels.

Ross Island

Once the seat of British power and capital of these Islands, it stands now as a ruin of the bygone days with the old structure almost in debris. A small museum named 'Smritika' holds photographs and the other antiques of the Britishers relevant to these islands.

Viper Island

The Britishers used to harbour convicts here. The first jail was constructed here which was abandoned after the construction of Cellular Jail. It has a gallows atop a hillock, where condemned prisoners were hanged. Sher Ali, who killed Lord Mayo, the Viceroy of India in 1872, was also hanged here.

Chatham Island

It has a Saw Mill lying on the tiny island connected by a bridge over a stretch of sea-water. This Saw Mill is one of the biggest and oldest in Asia. The main mainland -Island harbour is also here. The other harbour is Haddo, which is nearby.

National Memorial

This three-storeyed prison, constructed by Britishers in 1906, is a pilgrimage destination for freedom fighters. This colossal edifice has mutely witnessed the most treacherous of inhumane atrocities borne by the convicts, who were mostly freedom fighters. Now dedicated to the nation as a National Memorial.

Anthropological Museum

This museum at Phoenix Bay (Bus stand - Delanipur road) depicts the life of the Paleolithic Islanders. It also houses the models of the aborigines and their tools. Closed on Mondays and holidays.

Fisheries Museum

Situated near Andaman Water Sports Complex, it exhibits species of marine life peculiar to the islands and found in the Indo-Pacific and the Bay of Bengal. Closed on Mondays and holidays.

Entry Fee: adult - Rs. 2/-, child (upto 12 years) Re. 1/-,

Video without focus light - Rs. 25/-

Samudrika (Naval Marine Museum)

Situated opposite to Andaman Teal House, Delanipur this museum is meant to create awareness on various aspects of oceanic environment. A good collection of shells, corals and a few species of colourful fishes found in these islands are on display.

Time: 8.30 AM - 12.00 Noon, 2.00 PM - 5.00 PM, Monday & holiday closed
Entry fee - Rs. 10/-

Zoological Survey of India Museum

Situated near to Andaman Teal House, this museum and research library exhibit a good variety of sponges, corals, butterflies, centipedes etc., Open on all working days.

Forest Museum

Situated at Haddo (near to the Zoo), this museum offers an insight into forest activities through scale models and displays decorative pieces made of famous woods like Padauk, Marble, Peauma, Gurjan, Satin Wood, etc., Open on all working days.

Cellular Jail

Cellular Jail, located at Port Blair, stood mute witness to the tortures meted out to the freedom fighters, who were incarcerated in this Jail. The Jail, completed in the year 1906 acquired the name, 'cellular' because it is entirely made up of individual cells for the solitary confinement of the prisoners. It originally was a seven pronged, puce-coloured building with central tower acting as its fulcrum and a massive structure comprising honeycomb like corridors. The building was subsequently damaged and presently three out of the seven prongs are intact. The Jail, now a place of pilgrimage for all freedom loving people, has been declared a National Memorial.

The penal settlement established in Andamans by the British after the First War of Independence in 1857 was the beginning of the agonising story of freedom fighters in the massive and awful jails at Viper Island followed by the Cellular Jail.

The patriots who raised their voice against the British Raj were sent to this Jail, where many perished. Netaji Subash Chandra Bose hoisted the tri-colour flag to proclaim Independence on 30th December 1943 at a place near this Jail.

This three-storeyed prison, constructed by Britishers in 1906, is a pilgrimage destination for freedom fighters. This colossal edifice has mutely witnessed the most treacherous of inhumane atrocities borne by the convicts, who were mostly freedom fighters. Now dedicated to the nation as a National Memorial.

The saga of the heroic freedom struggle is brought alive in a moving Son-et-Lumiere, shown daily inside the jail compound at 6.00 PM (Hindi) and 7.15 PM (English). Also there is a Museum, an Art gallery, and a Photo gallery, which are open on all days except Monday from 9.00 AM to 12 Noon and 2.00 PM to 5.00 PM.

Entry fee: - Rs. 5/-, Camera - photo - Rs. 10/-, video - Rs. 50/-
Light & Sound Show - Entry fee: adult Rs. 20/-, child Rs. 10/- (Above 5 & below 12yrs)

Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park

The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park at Wandoor is at a distance of 29 Kms. from Port Blair covering an area of 281.5 Sq. Kms. This Marine Park made-up of open sea, creeks and 15 small and large islands, is one of the best found anywhere in the world. Viewing of rare corals and underwater marine life through glass bottom boats, SCUBA diving and Snorkelling are a lifetime experience for anyone.

Prashant Thakur Singh http://www.travelindiaguru.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Prashant_Thakur_Singh

World's Top 8 Largest Water Parks

Water centers and parks have long been a favourite summer time attraction. Since their introduction in the 1940's, these recreational destination have provided amusement and fun for young and old alike. Swimming pools and massive water slides are only some of the attractions that you'll find at these tourist hot spots. Indoor parks have also become increasingly popular, making year round splash-filled romps an exciting reality. With almost 2,000 fun water centers all over the world, there are plenty to choose from. Read on for details about some of the largest and most exciting water parks in the world.

1. Sandcastle Aqua Park in Blackpool, Lancashire, England houses the massive Master Blaster, the world's longest indoor water roller coaster ride. Opened in 1986, this park is the UK's largest and premier indoor water park experience.

2. Sunway Lagoon in Petaling, Jaya is Malaysia's largest water center. The Waters of Africa adventure simulates a journey into an African wilderness and is the park's largest attraction. Exhilarating waterplay abounds at this growing destination.

3. Las Cascadas is not only Puerto Rico's largest water splash park, it is the largest water park in all of the Caribbean. This water park is owned by the city of Aguadilla and is in fact the only facility of its kind in the region.

4. Noah's Ark Family Park Inc. is easily the largest water park in the U.S. In operation for over three decades, this rip-roaring park spans over 70 acres. It's home, the city of Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, is famously known as the "Water Park Capital of the World" due to the impressive number of 18 indoor water parks it holds.

5. In Australia, Wet n' Wild Water World lays claim to that country's largest water center title. This fantastic park features a shaded twenty acre sub-tropical garden.

6. The World Aqua Park in Edmonton, Canada is a thrilling water play park located inside the Edmonton Mall. Chilly weather on the outside does nothing to damper the moods of visitors to this indoor park, because World Water is always a comfortable 86 degrees. The world's largest indoor wave pool is sure to keep guests coming back.

7. The Tropical Islands, Germany is housed in a gargantuan former zeppelin hangar that spans over 710,000 square feet and claims to be the largest freestanding building in the world. Opened in 2004, the park's indoor pool can accommodate up to 8,000 visitors. The facility is also home to an enormous man-made rainforest.

8. New Braunfels, Texas, U.S. is home to the largest water park in Texas, the Schlitterbahn Watercentre Resort. This park boasts the world's first surfing machine, over 3 miles of inner tube rides, heaps of water slides and the first uphill water ride ever created.

Chelsi Woolz loves to spend time with her children and what better place to bond than on the water slides at a water splash park! Water centers are fun for the whole family, so go on, go have some fun!

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Bali - A Unique Holiday Spot

If you are on the lookout for the ultimate tropical getaway for your holiday or honeymoon, then you must consider Bali among your choices as well. Bali is one of Indonesia's many islands which are blessed with natural greenery and foliage for an ultimate relaxing experience. Relaxing in a Bali Villa could be an idyllic way to spend your winter vacation. So you can opt for Bali Villa rental now!

Bali is currently ranked as the world's best island by the Travel and Leisure and Galapagos survey statistics. It has some of the best spas and villas apart from the numerous hotels for you to spend a memorable holiday as well as enjoy a relaxing stay. Bali is home to some of the ancient temples, artwork and traditions which include unique dance forms and sculptures that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Every year Bali has numerous visitors and tourists who come to experience the beauty of nature and art blended in one. Thus, Bali also has some of the world's best hotels and spas. The Ayana Resort and Spa has been listed in the world's top 100 hotels according to the 2009 survey. It is originally the recreation of the former Ritz-Carlton Bali, which was a highly rated and appreciated resort and spa in Bali. Now, it has been modified and redesigned, restoring all the natural beauty and artwork of Bali in it.

Do you prefer spas and villas over hotels when you are on vacations? Bali has the best and most reputed spas and villas which provide you with the most luxurious accommodation and platter, both of which are traditional to Bali. The villas have fully air conditioned bedrooms, living rooms and dining rooms, which reflect the Balinese lifestyle. Apart from the modern amenities that are provided in every room, they are designed in the original Balinese way, with walls and roofs made from local wood and floors made of natural stone.

Apart from this you are also provided with a personal butler who is trained to serve you any platter from the traditional Balinese cuisine to continental and any other cuisine that you wish to have. Not only that, the food is served to you wherever want, be it in your living room, dining room or even bedroom.

The climate of Bali is hot and humid owing to its tropical position and hence the villas and spas are constructed as such with airy and spacious living rooms along with a lot of greenery and foliage placed everywhere in your space. It is also advised that you dress accordingly in light clothes to survive the humid climate. But you must take care not to cross the boundaries of decency because Bali is a cultural and traditional land and thus you must be dressed accordingly in places of worship.

If you are visiting Bali you must consider visiting the popular tourist spots such as Kuta, Sanur and Seminyak. Kuta is actually a beach with white sand shores and abundant coral reefs and marine life to enjoy and admire. If you are planning for romance as well as culture in your holidays, then Bali is the ideal place for you.

The author of this article has great knowledge about the Bali Villas. He has helped many people out there to get the best Bali villa rentals at affordable prices. He well knows the fact that there are several things to be considered while choosing the Bali villas. He has written many articles on choosing the Bali villas.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nigel_Fine

Borneo Malaysia Vacation - Top 10 Wildlife Destinations

Are you thinking of going to Borneo?

A Borneo Malaysia vacation offers endless excitement for wildlife adventures and awesome scenery on the world's third largest island. The island is home to exotic and endangered species such as orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, tarsiers and other wild animals.

Tropical rainforests are dense entanglements that give cover to wild animals. Unlike an African safari, where the open Savannah easily exposes large groups of wildlife, observing wild creatures in Malaysia takes a bit more effort. But that's also part of the fun.

The states of Sarawak and Sabah make up Malaysian Borneo or East Malaysia. The two key gateway cities are Kuching and Kota Kinabalu. Here are some of the parks and sanctuaries to visit for the best chance to see some of Asia's most endangered species and a diversity of wildlife not found elsewhere in the world.

Sabah, Borneo

Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary - Take a ride on the Kinabatangan River for a wildlife outing in one of Malaysia's best nature experiences. If you're lucky you can observe Asian pygmy elephants grazing along the river bank, long-nosed proboscis monkeys sitting in treetops, hornbills and kingfishers flying by and enjoy this easy floating safari.

Tabin Wildlife Reserve - As a primary rainforest, this wildlife reserve protects important habitats for many of Malaysia's large mammals - elephants, rhinos, orangutans.For birdwatchers, hundreds of species are found in the jungle and swamplands, including hornbills, owls and eagles. Take a night safari to enjoy the sights of wild animals on the prowl. And don't forget to visit the mud volcano during the day for a splash in the muddy pools.

Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary - If you want to see orangutans up close, then do not skip a trip to this lowland rainforest reserve famous for rehabilitating former pet animals into wild residents. Walk on the boardwalk through towering tropical trees to observe these wonderful endangered primates that are under threat from deforestation and conflicts due to the expansion of plantation agriculture. Go to Sepilok for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to view one of the planet's most interesting species.

Sipadan Island - For those seeking an underwater adventure, Sipadan is rated as one of the world's best dive spots. An unending parade of marine biodiversity displays everything from schools of barracuda to reef resting green turtles. Nature explodes with diverse coral structures and a technicolor panorama of triggerfish, anemones, sea fans and angelfish... just for starters. As Malaysia's only oceanic island, a vertical cliff descends 600 meters to showcase an encrusted sea wall of plant and animal life.

Turtle Islands Park - Protecting the traditional landing and nesting grounds for Green and Hawksbill turtles, a visit to the park offers a chance to observe these ancient mariners returning to shore to start the next generation. Learn about the plight of sea turtles and local conservation efforts to save them from extinction.

Danum Valley Conservation Area - A research center amid some of the best lowland rainforest in Asia, Danum Valley is a trekker's paradise for birdwatching, wildlife observation and nature photography. If you want to get a real feel for the jungle, head over to Sabah and spend a few days on the forest trails.

Sarawak, Borneo

Bako National Park - If you go to Kuching, this park is just a few hours away for a great day trip to see a spectacular coastal reserve. A mixture of mangrove swamps, sandstone cliffs and seaside forests, wildlife abounds with proboscis monkeys, pit vipers, flying lemurs and other wild creatures. Enter the park from the sea and capture the gorgeous scenery of this pristine habitat.

Gunung Mulu National Park - Rugged limestone formations surrounded by dense tropical rainforest provides for fantastic scenery outside and cave exploration inside. Watch millions of bats emerge at dusk from some of the largest cave chambers in the world or trek through the jungle to mountaintops to explore the unique blade-sharp Pinnacles rising from the forest floor like daggers.

Niah National Park - Gigantic caves are home for millions of bats that exit each night to forage on hoards of insects, while swifltlets make edible nests on cave walls. Jungle trails traverse through lowland and hill rainforest to expose an assortment of wild animals such as monkeys, monitor lizards, flying lizards, hornbills and other rainforest birds.

Batang Ai National Park - Located in pristine interior jungles next to a wildlife sanctuary, the park is an oasis of wildlife set against a lake reservoir formed by a hydroelectric dam. Orangutans, gibbons and hornbills provide good opportunities for wild sightings in excellent rainforest habitats. Visitors can also learn about traditional Iban lifestyles by spending time in a longhouse and going into the jungle with an Iban guide.

About The Author:

Living in Malaysia, Rick Gregory explores the jungles, tropical islands and rainforest habitats of the country and showcases these great nature vacation destinations on his website Nature Escapes.

Discover more information on great Borneo vacation getaways.

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Top 4 Trekking Destinations in the World

There are many tourist destination spots in the world, but why not choose an exotic location for your next vacation? Why not choose a spot where you are able to learn about the environment, interact with other cultures and explore the most beautiful places on earth? A trekking trip would be able to satisfy all of your vacation needs, but where are the best places to go? Here are a few of the top trekking destinations in the world.

1. Discover Nepal.

Nepal has everything anyone could want in a vacation locale. There are breathtaking views, cities filled with spirituality, culture oozing throughout the country, and endless adventure opportunities available during your stay. You are able to partake in a spiritual journey via visiting the numerous temples in Nepal and by climbing Mt. Everest embracing the natural environment and breathtaking views.

2. Encounter Tibet.

Tibet is the highest region on earth, and with the options of climbing Mount Everest or visiting the Potala Palace it is difficult to decide what adventure to partake in first when visiting this country. Potala Palace exemplifies Tibetan architecture to its highest degree. Potala Palace sits upon the Marpo Ri hill 130 meters above the Lhasa valley. It stands 117 meters in height and 360 meters in width. It is the former residence of the Dalai Lama containing over 1000 rooms within 13 stories. It is divided in two parts, the outer White Palace and inner Red Quarters. The White Palace serves as administrative quarters while the Red Quarters houses the assembly hall of the Lamas, chapels, 10,000 shrines and a vast library of Buddhist scriptures. Thus, Tibet offers much to be seen in the form of a trekking trip making it a top destination.

3. Uncover the Kingdom of Bhutan.

The Kingdom of Bhutan is located at the eastern end of the Himalaya Mountains. It is bordered to the north by China and by the south, east and west by India. It is a nation whose people believe in living in harmony with nature. As a result, the country has been identified with 10 bio-diversity hot spots in the world and as one of the 221 global endemic bird areas. It is enriched with wildlife and animals including the snow leopard, golden langur, blue sheep, water buffalo and elephant. Bhutan is a unique nation creating an unforgettable atmosphere for your journey.

4. Travel India.

Between the beaches, scenic mountains, people, and historical monuments, such as the Taj Mahal, India will captivate the heart of any tourist. India is filled with boundless sites and must-see places leaving it difficult to decide where to start. Thus, decide on what you prefer to engage in first. Ask yourself if you would like to see sites or begin climbing immediately. Keep in mind if you choose India for a trekking trip, then you will discover there is more to experience other than trekking making India a perfect choice for your next outing.

Regardless of what location you choose for your next trip remember do your research. Contact the Bureau of Tourism for each location, ask questions, and gather ample amounts of information. The more information you have the better decision you will be able to make ensuring you and your loved ones have an astonishing and unforgettable holiday.

For more information on Trekking Nepal check out Responsible Adventures.

For information on Everest Base Camp Trekking check out Responsible Adventures an ecological trekking organization designed to improve, protect and preserve the Environment and Culture of the Himalayan mountain range. Responsible Adventures are the leaders in the organization of ecological mountain treks.

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Underwater Camera Cases For a Worry Free Trip

Going on a trip, where you need to relax and get the most of every moment spent in the nature will be possible only if you are confident that you will capture some of those moments. That will allow you to remember one day of that special time and off course to show your friends and family what was special about that trip. For that kind of worry-free trip, underwater camera cases are definitely must have, beside camera.

Being in water, beside the water, snow or somewhere near waterfall should not be a problem at all for anyone equipped with underwater camera cases. Waterproof camera cases will protect your camera not just from fresh or salt water, from water that comes in a shape of rain and snow, but from dust and sand. This means that you can go anywhere around the world including deserts with your camera and your captured moments protected.

Waterproof underwater camera cases and bags come in different shapes and sizes. They are usually made to fit to the specific model of camera with or without zoom lenses and can be fitted with additional filters or close up lenses. In addition, they are affordable, considering high quality and durability that they offer. They are easy to use which is very important for people who don't want to waste time on too complicated devices. Simply said, they are specially designed to protect your camera and make it possible to use it almost everywhere without worrying about it and being aware of it all the time.

Underwater cam cases allow you to keep your old camera and by putting it inside of the case, it becomes waterproof. That makes you save money. These underwater camera cases are made of different waterproof materials like, for example, double laminated PVC, optical glass and foam inlays and this allows the user to take a pictures underwater up to 10 meters deep and the same quality pictures taken through the case.

All these properties of underwater camera cases make your adventure even more satisfying and pleasurable than it already is. Get yourself equipped the best you can and go for it. It will be priceless to possess those amazing pictures one day.

Being in water, snow or somewhere near waterfall should not be a problem at all for anyone equipped with underwater camera cases.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ljiljana_Anicic

Travel Tips

Most likely, your vacation plans will go down without incident and you will have a memorable, exciting experience. However, many people now choose to have a backup plan in place just in case the unexpected happens and their travel plans are disrupted. This is why more and more individuals and families are taking advantage of travel insurance. In general, travel insurance has you covered in case your trip is cancelled, delayed, or interrupted. Each aspect of your trip can be insured, including the cost of your plane tickets, hotel reservations, and even tours that you have prepaid for. In addition, travel insurance can also cover medical emergencies or the loss of your luggage.

Trip Cancellation Insurance

One of the most popular types of insurance, trip cancellation insurance covers all of your travel expenses that are not refundable. Your airfare, hotel costs, and any other items that you cannot get your money back for will be fully reimbursed. This is the most complete type of travel insurance and is the best way to make sure that you won't be out any money in the event of a change or cancellation.

When you sign up for trip cancellation insurance, make sure that your insurance will cover your canceled trip for any reason. For example, some types of insurance will only cover you in the event of an emergency. But the best policies will cover you no matter what -- even if you just happen to change your mind. You can also choose the terms of your travel cancellation coverage. You can get insurance for just one trip, more than one trip, or sign up for annual travel insurance coverage. The best type of travel cancellation insurance for your needs will depend most on your frequency of travel.

Airline Ticket Insurance

Another option to cover one of the most expensive aspects of travel is airline ticket insurance. Of course, this insurance will reimburse the cost or your airfare in the event of a cancellation. While airline ticket insurance will not cover the cost of any other travel related expense, it is often cheaper to purchase this insurance instead of simply paying the money to cancel your ticket.

Cruise Insurance

Did you know that getting medical help while aboard a cruise ship can be tens of thousands of dollars more expensive than getting medical help while on land? That is just one reason why cruise insurance could be a sound investment for you. Most individual cruise lines offer their own cruise insurance, but often this is more expensive than getting coverage from an independent agency. In addition, the insurance offered through the cruise lines often has limited benefits. Shop around for insurance that will give you the most coverage -- this way you know you will be taken care of in the event of an emergency.

Flight Accident Insurance

Like its name implies, flight accident insurance covers you in the event of accidental death or dismemberment on an airplane. This type of insurance can be thought of like a life insurance policy that will pay out in event of a major disaster. Most flight accident insurance policies will cover you if you are injured while you are a passenger on an airplane or are injured while using airline provided transportation to the airplane.

Rental Car Insurance

Each rental car agency has their own additional insurance policies. These polices are fairly cheap, but may be unnecessary. Before you pay any money for rental car insurance, consult with your own auto insurance agency. Many policies include coverage for rental cars, so there is no need to double insure yourself. However, if you only have basic insurance on your own car, you will most likely need to pay for rental insurance -- just to be safe.

Do You Need It?

Of course, having an accident or unlikely event while traveling is not the norm, so you must consider this when weighing the benefits of travel insurance. Of course, most people choose to be safe than sorry. So if you have the means, travel insurance is probably a good idea.

Byron Smith has authored an extensive collection of travel-related information for hundreds of cities around the world. You can find his articles as well as ways to compare hotel prices on HotelDealSite.com.

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