Page not found – eZine Religion https://www.ezinereligion.com Tue, 26 Mar 2024 05:21:21 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.24 People in Afghanistan https://www.ezinereligion.com/people-in-afghanistan.html Tue, 26 Mar 2024 05:21:21 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1960 Read More »]]> Afghanistan, a diverse and culturally rich country located in South Asia, is home to a mosaic of ethnicities, languages, and traditions. Over the centuries, Afghanistan’s population has been shaped by migrations, invasions, and interactions with neighboring regions, resulting in a complex tapestry of peoples with distinct identities and histories.

Ethnic Groups:

According to thesciencetutor, Afghanistan is inhabited by a multitude of ethnic groups, each with its own distinct identity, language, and cultural heritage. While the Pashtuns are the largest ethnic group in Afghanistan, comprising approximately 42% of the population, there are several other significant ethnic groups as well. These include:

  1. Tajiks: Tajiks are the second-largest ethnic group in Afghanistan, accounting for around 27% of the population. They are predominantly found in the northern and central regions of the country and speak Dari, a dialect of Persian, as their primary language.
  2. Hazaras: Hazaras are a distinct ethnic group with Mongoloid features, making up approximately 9% of Afghanistan’s population. They primarily inhabit the central highlands of Afghanistan, including areas such as Bamiyan and Daykundi provinces.
  3. Uzbeks: Uzbeks constitute around 9% of Afghanistan’s population and are primarily concentrated in the northern provinces bordering Uzbekistan. They speak Uzbek and have historically played a significant role in trade and commerce in the region.
  4. Turkmen: Turkmen are another Turkic-speaking ethnic group in Afghanistan, comprising around 3% of the population. They are primarily found in the northern provinces bordering Turkmenistan and have maintained strong cultural ties with their Turkmen kin across the border.
  5. Baloch: Baloch people, who are primarily Sunni Muslims, make up a small percentage of Afghanistan’s population, residing primarily in the southern province of Nimroz and parts of Helmand and Kandahar provinces.
  6. Nuristanis: Nuristanis are an ethnic group residing in the eastern province of Nuristan. They have distinct cultural practices and languages, separate from the dominant Pashtun and Tajik cultures.

These are just a few of the many ethnic groups that contribute to the rich tapestry of Afghanistan’s population. Each group has its own language, cultural traditions, and historical narratives that shape its identity and place within Afghan society.

Languages:

Afghanistan is a linguistically diverse country, with numerous languages spoken across its various regions. While Pashto and Dari (a dialect of Persian) are the official languages of Afghanistan, there are several other languages spoken by different ethnic groups. Some of the major languages include:

  1. Pashto: Pashto is the native language of the Pashtun ethnic group and is spoken by a majority of the population, particularly in the southeastern and eastern regions of Afghanistan. It is also widely spoken in neighboring Pakistan.
  2. Dari: Dari, also known as Afghan Persian, is the lingua franca of Afghanistan and serves as the language of administration, education, and literature. It is spoken primarily by Tajiks and other Persian-speaking ethnic groups.
  3. Uzbek: Uzbek is spoken by the Uzbek ethnic group in northern Afghanistan, particularly in provinces bordering Uzbekistan. It is also spoken by Uzbek communities in neighboring countries such as Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.
  4. Turkmen: Turkmen is spoken by the Turkmen ethnic group in northern Afghanistan, particularly in areas bordering Turkmenistan. It is closely related to other Turkic languages spoken in Central Asia.
  5. Balochi: Balochi is spoken by the Baloch ethnic group in southern Afghanistan, particularly in Nimroz Province. It is also spoken by Baloch communities in neighboring Pakistan and Iran.

In addition to these major languages, there are several other minority languages spoken by smaller ethnic groups in Afghanistan, such as Hazaragi, Nuristani languages, and Pamiri languages. The linguistic diversity of Afghanistan reflects its rich cultural heritage and historical connections with neighboring regions.

Religions:

Afghanistan is predominantly a Muslim country, with Islam serving as the dominant religion and influencing various aspects of daily life and culture. The majority of Afghans are Sunni Muslims, belonging to the Hanafi school of jurisprudence within Sunni Islam. However, there are also significant minority religious communities in Afghanistan, including:

  1. Shia Muslims: Shia Muslims, primarily belonging to the Twelver Shia branch, constitute a significant minority in Afghanistan, making up around 10-20% of the population. They are predominantly found among the Hazara ethnic group and reside in central and western regions of the country.
  2. Hindus and Sikhs: Hindus and Sikhs, although a small minority, have a long history in Afghanistan and have made significant contributions to the country’s cultural and economic life. However, their numbers have dwindled significantly in recent decades due to persecution and emigration.

Cultural Practices:

Afghanistan’s diverse ethnic and religious landscape is reflected in its rich tapestry of cultural practices, traditions, and customs. These include:

  1. Family Structure: Afghan society is traditionally patriarchal, with strong emphasis placed on family and kinship ties. Extended families often live together in multi-generational households, and familial relationships play a central role in social interactions and decision-making.
  2. Hospitality: Hospitality is a deeply ingrained cultural value in Afghanistan, with guests being treated with utmost respect and generosity. It is customary to offer guests tea, sweets, and food upon their arrival, regardless of social status or relationship.
  3. Festivals and Celebrations: Afghanistan is home to a variety of festivals and celebrations, many of which are rooted in Islamic traditions and cultural practices. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are among the most important Islamic festivals celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm across the country.
  4. Traditional Dress: Traditional Afghan attire varies depending on ethnic and regional affiliations. Pashtun men often wear the traditional shalwar kameez, while women may wear the burqa or chador. Tajiks and Hazaras, on the other hand, may wear attire similar to that of Persian culture.
  5. Music and Dance: Music and dance are integral parts of Afghan culture, with diverse regional styles and instruments such as the rubab, tabla, and dhol. Attan, a traditional Afghan dance, is often performed at weddings, celebrations, and cultural events.

Despite the challenges posed by decades of conflict and political instability, Afghanistan’s diverse peoples continue to preserve and celebrate their cultural heritage, contributing to the country’s rich tapestry of traditions, languages, and identities. As Afghanistan moves forward, efforts to promote cultural diversity, tolerance, and inclusivity will be essential for building a more peaceful and cohesive society that embraces the richness of its people.

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Religion in Albania https://www.ezinereligion.com/religion-in-albania.html Wed, 20 Mar 2024 14:33:58 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1957 Read More »]]> Religion in Albania is a multifaceted and dynamic aspect of its cultural and social landscape, shaped by centuries of historical, political, and cultural influences. Situated at the crossroads of Eastern and Western civilizations, Albania boasts a rich tapestry of religious traditions that have left an indelible mark on its people and society. From ancient pagan practices to the spread of Christianity and Islam, the religious history of Albania reflects a complex interplay of faith, identity, and socio-political dynamics.

Ancient Roots: Paganism and Pre-Christian Beliefs

According to thereligionfaqs, the roots of religion in Albania can be traced back to ancient times when the region was inhabited by various Illyrian tribes, each with its own set of pagan beliefs and rituals. These pre-Christian traditions were deeply rooted in nature worship, animism, and ancestor veneration, with deities associated with natural phenomena such as the sun, moon, and earth. Archaeological evidence, including ancient artifacts and inscriptions, provides insights into the religious practices of the Illyrians, although much of their belief system remains shrouded in mystery.

Despite the spread of Christianity in later centuries, elements of pagan beliefs persisted in Albanian folklore and folk traditions, blending with Christian rituals to form a unique syncretic tradition. Many of the customs and rituals associated with major life events, such as birth, marriage, and death, bear traces of ancient pagan symbolism, attesting to the enduring influence of Albania’s pre-Christian heritage on its religious culture.

Christianity: The Legacy of Byzantium and Roman Catholicism

The spread of Christianity in Albania dates back to the early centuries of the Christian era when the region came under the influence of the Byzantine Empire. Byzantine missionaries, including Saints Cyril and Methodius, played a significant role in spreading Christianity among the Albanian people, establishing churches, monasteries, and dioceses throughout the region. The Orthodox Christian tradition took root among the Albanian population, particularly in the southern regions, where Greek influence was strongest.

In addition to Orthodox Christianity, Roman Catholicism also gained a foothold in Albania, especially in the northern and central parts of the country, where contact with the Roman Catholic Church was more direct. The arrival of Franciscan and Jesuit missionaries in Albania further facilitated the spread of Catholicism, leading to the establishment of Catholic dioceses and religious institutions.

The division between Orthodox Christianity and Roman Catholicism in Albania has historically been influenced by factors such as geography, ethnicity, and political allegiances, with religious identity often intertwined with regional and cultural affiliations. Despite occasional tensions between Orthodox and Catholic communities, particularly during periods of political upheaval, both traditions have coexisted relatively peacefully within Albanian society, contributing to the country’s religious diversity and pluralism.

Islam: Ottoman Legacy and the Rise of Albanian Nationalism

The most significant transformation in Albania’s religious landscape occurred with the arrival of Islam during the Ottoman period, beginning in the late 14th century. The Ottoman conquest brought Islam to Albania, as mosques, madrasas, and Islamic institutions were established across the region. Over time, Islam became the dominant faith in Albania, particularly in the central and southern regions, where the majority of the population converted to Islam.

The spread of Islam in Albania was facilitated by various factors, including economic incentives, social mobility, and political patronage, as well as intermarriage between Muslim Ottomans and local Albanians. The process of conversion to Islam was gradual and often voluntary, with many Albanians embracing Islam while retaining elements of their pre-Islamic cultural identity.

The Ottoman era left a lasting imprint on Albanian society, shaping its language, customs, and religious practices. Islamic architecture, including mosques, minarets, and religious complexes, became prominent features of Albania’s urban and rural landscapes, symbolizing the country’s integration into the broader Islamic world.

However, the Ottoman legacy also engendered tensions and conflicts within Albanian society, particularly during periods of nationalist awakening in the 19th and 20th centuries. The emergence of Albanian nationalism, fueled by a desire for independence and self-determination, led to a reevaluation of religious identity and a resurgence of Albanian cultural and linguistic pride.

Religious Diversity and Pluralism in Modern Albania

Today, Albania is a secular state with a constitutionally guaranteed freedom of religion, reflecting its commitment to religious tolerance and pluralism. The collapse of communism in the early 1990s ushered in a period of religious revival and resurgence, as Albanians were free to practice their faith openly after decades of state-enforced atheism.

The post-communist era witnessed a renaissance of religious life in Albania, with mosques, churches, and religious institutions experiencing a revival of interest and activity. The country’s diverse religious communities, including Muslims, Orthodox Christians, Catholics, and smaller denominations, coexist peacefully within Albanian society, fostering a spirit of mutual respect and understanding.

Despite this atmosphere of religious tolerance, challenges remain, including occasional incidents of religious intolerance, extremism, and interfaith tensions. Efforts to promote interreligious dialogue, foster mutual understanding, and combat religious discrimination have been ongoing, supported by government initiatives, civil society organizations, and religious leaders.

Albania’s religious landscape continues to evolve in response to changing social, political, and economic dynamics, with religion playing a central role in shaping individual and collective identities. The country’s rich religious heritage, characterized by a blend of pagan, Christian, and Islamic influences, reflects the diversity and complexity of Albanian society, contributing to its cultural vibrancy and resilience.

Conclusion

Religion in Albania is a rich and multifaceted phenomenon, shaped by centuries of historical, cultural, and social dynamics. From ancient pagan beliefs to the spread of Christianity and Islam, Albania’s religious heritage reflects a complex interplay of faith, identity, and socio-political forces. Despite periods of religious tension and conflict, Albania’s commitment to religious tolerance and pluralism has enabled diverse religious communities to coexist peacefully within its borders, contributing to the country’s cultural vibrancy and resilience. As Albania continues to navigate its path toward modernization and integration into the global community, its religious heritage remains a source of strength and inspiration, reflecting the enduring spirit of its people.

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Dominican Republic Location on the Globe https://www.ezinereligion.com/dominican-republic-location-on-the-globe.html Tue, 19 Mar 2024 07:56:22 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1956 Read More »]]> The Dominican Republic is a vibrant and culturally rich country located on the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean region.

Geographically, the Dominican Republic occupies the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, which it shares with the Republic of Haiti to the west. It is situated in the Caribbean Sea, southeast of the United States and east of Cuba and Jamaica. The country’s coordinates are approximately 18.7357° N latitude and 70.1627° W longitude.

According to Baglib, Hispaniola is the second-largest island in the Caribbean after Cuba, with a total land area of around 76,192 square kilometers (29,418 square miles). The Dominican Republic covers approximately 48,670 square kilometers (18,792 square miles), making it the larger of the two countries on the island. Its terrain is diverse, ranging from mountainous regions in the interior to coastal plains and sandy beaches along the coastline.

The Dominican Republic’s geographical location places it within the tropical zone, resulting in a warm and tropical climate characterized by relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year. The country experiences two main seasons: a dry season from November to April and a rainy season from May to October. The climate is influenced by the northeast trade winds and the presence of the nearby Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea.

The country’s diverse geography contributes to its rich biodiversity, with various ecosystems ranging from tropical rainforests and cloud forests to mangrove swamps and coral reefs. The Dominican Republic is home to numerous species of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to the island.

From a historical perspective, the island of Hispaniola has been inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years. The earliest known inhabitants were the Taíno people, who arrived on the island around 7,000 years ago. They lived in villages and practiced agriculture, fishing, and hunting.

In 1492, Christopher Columbus made his first voyage to the Americas and landed on the island of Hispaniola, which he claimed for Spain. This event marked the beginning of European colonization in the region and had a profound impact on the indigenous population. The Taíno people were subjected to violence, forced labor, and diseases brought by the Europeans, leading to a drastic decline in their population.

Over the following centuries, the Spanish established colonies and plantations on the island, using enslaved Africans to work in the sugarcane fields and mines. The island’s strategic location made it a valuable asset for Spain, as it served as a gateway to other parts of the Caribbean and the Americas.

In 1697, the western third of the island of Hispaniola was ceded to France, becoming the colony of Saint-Domingue (present-day Haiti). The eastern two-thirds remained under Spanish control and became known as Santo Domingo, which later evolved into the Dominican Republic.

In the 19th century, the Dominican Republic struggled for independence from Spanish colonial rule, eventually gaining independence in 1821. However, this independence was short-lived, as the country was subsequently occupied by Haiti from 1822 to 1844. In 1844, the Dominican Republic declared its independence from Haiti and established itself as a sovereign nation.

Since gaining independence, the Dominican Republic has experienced periods of political instability, dictatorship, and foreign intervention. However, in recent decades, the country has made significant progress towards democracy, stability, and economic development.

Today, the Dominican Republic is a democratic republic with a diverse population comprising people of African, European, and indigenous descent. The country’s culture is a blend of Spanish, African, and indigenous influences, reflected in its music, dance, cuisine, art, and traditions.

One of the most notable aspects of Dominican culture is its music and dance. Merengue and bachata are two popular genres of music and dance that originated in the Dominican Republic and have gained international recognition. Merengue is characterized by its fast-paced rhythm and lively dance moves, while bachata is known for its romantic lyrics and sensual dance style.

Dominican cuisine is another important aspect of the country’s culture, featuring a diverse array of dishes influenced by Spanish, African, and indigenous culinary traditions. Staple foods include rice, beans, plantains, yuca, and seafood, often seasoned with herbs, spices, and tropical fruits.

In addition to its music and cuisine, the Dominican Republic is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, which showcase the country’s cultural heritage and religious traditions. Carnival is one of the most popular events, featuring colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and lively music and dance performances. Other notable celebrations include the Dominican Republic’s Independence Day on February 27th and various religious festivals honoring saints and religious figures.

In conclusion, the Dominican Republic’s geographical location on the globe places it on the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean region. Its coordinates of approximately 18.7357° N latitude and 70.1627° W longitude position it within the tropical zone, resulting in a warm and tropical climate year-round. From its diverse geography and rich biodiversity to its complex history and vibrant culture, the Dominican Republic offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience that celebrates the island’s natural beauty, heritage, and traditions.

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Finland as a Happy Country https://www.ezinereligion.com/finland-as-a-happy-country.html Mon, 18 Mar 2024 04:29:19 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1954 Read More »]]> Finland: Nurturing Happiness in the Land of a Thousand Lakes

Nestled in the northern reaches of Europe, Finland stands as a beacon of happiness, known for its high quality of life, strong social welfare system, and deep connection to nature. Despite its long, dark winters and sparse population, Finland consistently ranks among the happiest countries in the world. In this essay, we will explore the factors that contribute to Finland’s happiness and the ways in which its unique culture and society foster well-being among its citizens.

The Finnish Experience of Happiness

According to plus-size-tips, Finland’s commitment to happiness is evident in various global rankings, where it consistently secures a top spot. The World Happiness Report, produced annually by the United Nations, frequently places Finland among the top five happiest countries. This begs the question: what makes Finland such a happy place?

One key factor is Finland’s strong social welfare system, which ensures that basic needs such as healthcare, education, and social security are met for all citizens. This safety net provides a sense of security and stability, allowing people to focus on other aspects of their lives without the constant worry about survival or basic necessities.

Moreover, Finland places a high value on work-life balance, with generous parental leave policies, flexible working hours, and a culture that prioritizes leisure time. Finns enjoy long summer vacations, ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, and a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures in life.

Another contributing factor to Finland’s happiness is its emphasis on equality and social cohesion. Finland has low levels of income inequality compared to many other countries, and there is a strong sense of trust and solidarity among its citizens. This social cohesion fosters a sense of belonging and community, which is essential for overall well-being.

Nature and the Finnish Soul

Finland’s stunning natural landscapes play a significant role in shaping the country’s identity and contributing to the happiness of its people. With thousands of lakes, vast forests, and pristine wilderness areas, nature is deeply ingrained in the Finnish psyche.

The concept of “sisu,” often described as a form of resilience or determination in the face of adversity, is deeply rooted in Finnish culture. This resilience is closely tied to Finland’s relationship with nature, as Finns have historically relied on the land for survival in harsh conditions. Today, nature serves as a source of inspiration, rejuvenation, and connection to something larger than oneself.

Finnish people have a strong tradition of spending time outdoors, whether it’s hiking in the forest, swimming in a lake, or skiing in the winter. The Finnish government actively promotes outdoor recreation through initiatives such as “Everyman’s Right,” which allows people to freely roam and enjoy the countryside without restrictions.

Education and Innovation

Finland’s education system is widely regarded as one of the best in the world, emphasizing creativity, critical thinking, and individualized learning. Finnish schools prioritize holistic development rather than standardized testing, and teachers enjoy a high degree of autonomy and respect.

This approach to education fosters a sense of empowerment and lifelong learning among Finns, which contributes to their overall happiness and well-being. Moreover, Finland’s emphasis on innovation and technology has led to numerous advancements in various fields, from clean energy to healthcare.

Cultural Richness and Social Cohesion

Finland’s rich cultural heritage adds another layer of depth to its happiness quotient. From traditional folk music and dance to contemporary design and literature, Finnish culture is vibrant and diverse, reflecting the country’s history and values.

Social cohesion is a cornerstone of Finnish society, with strong social networks and a sense of collective responsibility for the well-being of others. Finns place a high value on honesty, trust, and integrity, which fosters a sense of mutual respect and understanding.

Moreover, Finland is known for its low levels of corruption and high levels of transparency, which contribute to a sense of fairness and justice in society. This trust in institutions and the rule of law helps to create a stable and predictable environment, which is essential for happiness and prosperity.

Conclusion

Finland’s happiness is the result of a unique combination of factors, including a strong social welfare system, a deep connection to nature, an emphasis on equality and social cohesion, a world-class education system, and a rich cultural heritage. Despite its challenging climate and geographical isolation, Finland has created a society where people can thrive and flourish, finding joy and fulfillment in the simple pleasures of life. As the world grapples with complex issues such as climate change, inequality, and social unrest, Finland serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when people prioritize well-being and collective happiness.

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Geography of Anne Arundel County, Maryland https://www.ezinereligion.com/geography-of-anne-arundel-county-maryland.html Thu, 14 Mar 2024 16:11:09 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1952 Read More »]]> Anne Arundel County, located in the central part of the U.S. state of Maryland, is a region characterized by its diverse geography, rich history, and vibrant communities. Encompassing an area of approximately 588 square miles, Anne Arundel County is situated along the Chesapeake Bay and is known for its waterfront landscapes, historic landmarks, and thriving economy. In this comprehensive overview, we’ll explore the geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other significant features of Anne Arundel County. Check homethodology to learn more about the state of Maryland.

Geography:

Anne Arundel County is bordered by the Patapsco River and Baltimore County to the north, the Chesapeake Bay to the east, Calvert County to the south, and Prince George’s County to the west. The county’s geography is characterized by its diverse mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas, with a landscape that includes waterfronts, marshes, forests, and agricultural land. Annapolis, the state capital of Maryland, is located within Anne Arundel County and serves as the county seat.

Climate:

The climate of Anne Arundel County is classified as humid subtropical, with four distinct seasons characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, relatively dry winters. The region experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with occasional extremes in temperature and weather patterns.

Summers in Anne Arundel County are typically hot and humid, with average high temperatures in the 80s°F to 90s°F range and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Winters are mild, with average low temperatures in the 20s°F to 30s°F range and occasional snowfall. Spring and fall are transitional seasons, with mild temperatures and variable weather conditions.

Rivers:

Anne Arundel County is intersected by several rivers and streams that flow through its landscape, providing habitat for wildlife and opportunities for outdoor recreation. These rivers and streams also play a vital role in the region’s economy, providing transportation routes, recreational opportunities, and scenic beauty. Some of the notable rivers in Anne Arundel County include:

  1. Severn River: The Severn River flows through the heart of Anne Arundel County, originating near the town of Odenton and flowing southward to the Chesapeake Bay. The river is popular for boating, fishing, and water sports and is home to the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis.
  2. South River: The South River flows through the southern part of Anne Arundel County, originating near the town of Davidsonville and flowing southeastward to the Chesapeake Bay. The river is known for its scenic beauty and provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking.
  3. Patuxent River: The Patuxent River forms the western boundary of Anne Arundel County, separating it from Prince George’s County. The river is an important waterway for transportation and commerce and offers opportunities for fishing, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing.

Chesapeake Bay:

Anne Arundel County is bordered by the Chesapeake Bay to the east, one of the largest estuaries in the United States and a vital ecosystem for aquatic life and migratory birds. The Chesapeake Bay provides opportunities for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, crabbing, and sailing, as well as scenic views of the water and surrounding landscapes.

Lakes:

While Anne Arundel County is primarily known for its rivers and the Chesapeake Bay, there are also several lakes and reservoirs within the county that offer opportunities for outdoor recreation and leisure. Some of the notable lakes in Anne Arundel County include:

  1. Lake Waterford: Lake Waterford is a man-made reservoir located in Pasadena, Anne Arundel County. The lake is popular for fishing, boating, and picnicking, as well as hiking and birdwatching along the trails surrounding the lake.
  2. Lake Ogleton: Lake Ogleton is a small tidal basin located near Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, adjacent to the Chesapeake Bay. The lake is popular for sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, as well as fishing for striped bass and other saltwater species.

Natural Areas:

Anne Arundel County is home to several natural areas and parks that showcase the region’s natural beauty and biodiversity. These parks offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, nature photography, and other outdoor activities. Some of the notable natural areas in Anne Arundel County include:

  1. Quiet Waters Park: Quiet Waters Park is located in Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, and features scenic trails, gardens, and waterfront views of the South River. The park offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, kayaking, and paddleboarding, as well as cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
  2. Sandy Point State Park: Sandy Point State Park is located on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, near the Bay Bridge, in Anne Arundel County. The park features sandy beaches, picnic areas, and fishing piers, as well as swimming, boating, and crabbing opportunities.

Agriculture:

Agriculture plays a significant role in the economy of Anne Arundel County, with a focus on dairy farming, crop cultivation, and horse breeding. The county’s fertile soil, moderate climate, and proximity to urban markets make it ideal for agriculture, and farming has been a traditional way of life for many families in the region.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Anne Arundel County, Maryland, is a region of diverse geography, rich history, and vibrant communities. From its waterfront landscapes and historic landmarks to its scenic rivers and natural areas, the county offers a variety of attractions and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re exploring the trails of Quiet Waters Park, sailing on the Chesapeake Bay, or enjoying the cultural amenities of Annapolis, Anne Arundel County has something for everyone to experience and enjoy in the great outdoors.

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Geography of Wicomico County, Maryland https://www.ezinereligion.com/geography-of-wicomico-county-maryland.html Thu, 14 Mar 2024 06:16:56 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1951 Read More »]]> Wicomico County, located in the southeastern part of the state of Maryland, is a region of diverse landscapes, historic significance, and natural beauty. From its coastal plains and tidal marshes to its winding rivers and tranquil lakes, Wicomico County offers a wealth of geographical features to explore. In this comprehensive overview, we will delve into the geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other notable aspects of Wicomico County, Maryland. Check bittranslators to learn more about the state of Maryland.

Geography:

Location: Wicomico County is situated in the southeastern part of Maryland, bordered by the Chesapeake Bay to the west, Somerset County to the south, Worcester County to the east, and Dorchester County to the southeast. It is part of the Delmarva Peninsula and lies within the Atlantic Coastal Plain region.

Topography: The topography of Wicomico County is characterized by flat coastal plains, tidal marshes, and low-lying wetlands. The county is situated within the Chesapeake Bay Watershed and features a mix of agricultural lands, forested areas, and coastal habitats.

Coastal Plain: Wicomico County lies within the Atlantic Coastal Plain, a low-lying region that extends from New York to Florida along the eastern seaboard of the United States. The coastal plain features sandy soils, pine forests, and tidal estuaries, as well as supporting diverse ecosystems and wildlife habitats.

Chesapeake Bay: The Chesapeake Bay forms the western border of Wicomico County, serving as a major transportation artery, recreational resource, and ecological treasure for the region. The bay provides opportunities for boating, fishing, crabbing, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities, as well as supporting diverse marine life and habitats.

Climate:

Humid Subtropical Climate: Wicomico County experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters, with moderate precipitation throughout the year.

Temperature: Average temperatures in Wicomico County range from 30°F to 85°F (-1°C to 29°C) throughout the year, with the coldest months occurring from December to February and the warmest months from June to August.

Precipitation: Wicomico County receives an average of 40 to 45 inches (1,015 to 1,140 mm) of precipitation annually, with rainfall distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. The county may also experience occasional snowfall in winter, particularly during nor’easter storms.

Hurricanes and Tropical Storms: Wicomico County is vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, which can bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surge to the region. Preparedness and safety measures are important during hurricane season, which typically lasts from June to November.

Rivers and Lakes:

Wicomico River: The Wicomico River is the most significant waterway in Wicomico County, flowing southward through the heart of the region. The river provides important habitat for aquatic life, as well as opportunities for boating, fishing, paddling, and scenic beauty along its banks.

Nanticoke River: The Nanticoke River forms part of the western border of Wicomico County, serving as a major tributary of the Chesapeake Bay. The river provides important water resources for the region, as well as opportunities for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.

Lakes and Ponds: While natural lakes are relatively scarce in Wicomico County, there are several man-made lakes and reservoirs in the region. These bodies of water provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking, as well as serving as important water sources for local communities.

Historic Sites and Landmarks:

Salisbury: The city of Salisbury, located in Wicomico County, is the county seat and largest city in the region. Salisbury boasts a rich history and is home to numerous historic sites and landmarks, including the Poplar Hill Mansion, Pemberton Hall, and the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art.

Whitehaven: The historic village of Whitehaven, situated along the Wicomico River in Wicomico County, is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and maritime heritage. Visitors can explore local landmarks such as the Whitehaven Ferry, Whitehaven Hotel, and St. John’s Episcopal Church.

Pocomoke River State Park: Located just across the border in neighboring Worcester County, Pocomoke River State Park is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation. The park features scenic trails, campgrounds, and recreational facilities, as well as opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing along the Pocomoke River.

Outdoor Recreation:

Hiking and Camping: Wicomico County offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, and nature walks. The region is home to several parks, trails, and natural areas that provide scenic vistas, wildlife viewing, and outdoor adventures for visitors of all ages.

Boating and Fishing: With its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay, Wicomico County is an ideal destination for boating and fishing enthusiasts. The bay and its tributaries offer abundant opportunities to catch a variety of saltwater and freshwater fish, as well as opportunities for boating, kayaking, and canoeing.

Birdwatching and Wildlife Viewing: Wicomico County is a popular destination for birdwatching and wildlife viewing, with abundant populations of migratory birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife species. The region’s wetlands, forests, and coastal habitats provide excellent habitat for birds and wildlife, as well as opportunities for nature photography and observation.

Conclusion:

Wicomico County, Maryland, is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and outdoor recreation opportunities. From its scenic rivers and coastal plains to its historic towns and landmarks, the county provides a diverse array of landscapes and attractions to explore. Whether you’re hiking along the Wicomico River, exploring historic Salisbury, or birdwatching along the Chesapeake Bay, Wicomico County has something for everyone to discover and enjoy.

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Geography of Calvert County, Maryland https://www.ezinereligion.com/geography-of-calvert-county-maryland.html Wed, 13 Mar 2024 17:32:13 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1950 Read More »]]> Geography of Calvert County, Maryland

Calvert County, located in the southern part of the state of Maryland, is a picturesque area known for its Chesapeake Bay coastline, scenic rivers, and rich history. Spanning approximately 215 square miles, the county offers a diverse landscape, ranging from waterfront communities and marshlands to forests and farmland. This article will explore the geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other notable features that define Calvert County. Check allunitconverters to learn more about the state of Maryland.

Physical Features:

  • Chesapeake Bay Coastline: Calvert County boasts over 100 miles of coastline along the Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the United States. The Bay shoreline is characterized by sandy beaches, tidal marshes, and rocky cliffs, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. The Bay is a vital ecosystem, supporting fisheries, wildlife, and recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and birdwatching. Calvert County’s access to the Chesapeake Bay has played a significant role in shaping its economy, culture, and way of life.
  • Rivers and Creeks: In addition to the Chesapeake Bay, Calvert County is intersected by several rivers and creeks, which drain into the Bay and its tributaries. The Patuxent River forms the western boundary of the county, while smaller rivers such as the St. Leonard Creek, Battle Creek, and Fishing Creek flow through the county’s interior. These waterways provide habitat for fish, crabs, and waterfowl and offer opportunities for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
  • Forests and Woodlands: Calvert County is home to extensive forests and woodlands, consisting primarily of hardwood trees such as oak, hickory, and maple, as well as pine forests in some areas. The county’s forests provide habitat for wildlife, including deer, foxes, squirrels, and songbirds, as well as opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking, hunting, and nature walks. The forests also play a crucial role in protecting water quality, preventing soil erosion, and sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Climate:

Calvert County experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by four distinct seasons, mild winters, and hot, humid summers.

  • Summer: Summers in Calvert County are hot and humid, with daytime temperatures often reaching into the 80s to 90s°F (27-37°C). High humidity levels can make it feel even hotter, especially during heatwaves. Thunderstorms are common in the summer months, bringing heavy rain, lightning, and occasional gusty winds. Despite the heat, summer is a popular time for outdoor activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing along the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
  • Fall: Fall in Calvert County is a beautiful season marked by cooler temperatures, crisp air, and colorful foliage. Daytime temperatures gradually decrease, with highs ranging from the 60s to 70s°F (15-25°C), while nighttime temperatures can drop into the 40s and 50s°F (4-15°C). The changing colors of the leaves attract visitors from near and far, who come to experience the county’s scenic beauty and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and apple picking.
  • Winter: Winters in Calvert County are relatively mild compared to other parts of the country, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from the 30s to 40s°F (0-10°C). While snowfall is possible, it is usually light and sporadic, with most precipitation falling as rain. Cold snaps can occur, bringing freezing temperatures and occasional ice storms. Winter activities such as sledding, ice skating, and birdwatching are popular in the county’s parks and recreational areas.
  • Spring: Spring in Calvert County is a time of renewal and growth, as temperatures warm up, flowers bloom, and wildlife becomes active. Daytime temperatures gradually rise, with highs ranging from the 50s to 70s°F (10-25°C), while nighttime temperatures remain cool. Spring is a popular time for outdoor activities such as gardening, birdwatching, and nature walks, as the county’s forests and wetlands come alive with new life.

Rivers and Lakes:

  • Patuxent River: The Patuxent River forms the western boundary of Calvert County, flowing from its headwaters in central Maryland to its confluence with the Chesapeake Bay. The river provides habitat for fish, crabs, and other aquatic species and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Several marinas, boat ramps, and waterfront parks along the Patuxent River provide access for recreational activities and scenic views of the river and surrounding landscape.
  • Solomons Island: Solomons Island, located at the southern tip of Calvert County, is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and waterfront dining. The island is situated at the confluence of the Patuxent River and the Chesapeake Bay, offering stunning views of the waterways and nearby marshlands. Solomons Island is home to several marinas, boat rental companies, and seafood restaurants, as well as cultural attractions such as the Calvert Marine Museum and the Drum Point Lighthouse.

Human Impact:

  • Fishing and Seafood Industry: Fishing has long been a traditional way of life in Calvert County, dating back to the Native American tribes who first inhabited the region. Today, commercial and recreational fishing are important industries in the county, supporting jobs, income, and revenue for the local economy. The Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries are home to a variety of fish and shellfish species, including blue crabs, oysters, striped bass, and bluefish, which are harvested by fishermen and sold at local markets and seafood restaurants.
  • Tourism: Tourism is a significant economic driver in Calvert County, driven by its scenic beauty, historic landmarks, and recreational opportunities. Visitors come from across the region and beyond to experience the county’s natural attractions, cultural heritage, and waterfront communities. Outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching are popular, as are cultural and historical attractions such as museums, historic sites, and festivals celebrating the county’s maritime heritage.
  • Environmental Conservation: Environmental conservation is a priority in Calvert County, given its rich natural resources and sensitive ecosystems. Efforts are underway to protect and preserve the county’s waterways, wetlands, and forests through land conservation, habitat restoration, and sustainable land use practices. Organizations such as the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the Patuxent Riverkeeper, and local land trusts work to address issues such as water pollution, habitat loss, and climate change, with the goal of ensuring a healthy and sustainable environment for future generations.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Calvert County, Maryland, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and waterfront living. From its Chesapeake Bay coastline and scenic rivers to its forests and wetlands, the county boasts a diverse landscape rich in ecological diversity and recreational opportunities. While facing challenges such as water pollution, habitat loss, and climate change, Calvert County remains a resilient and vibrant community with a deep connection to its land and heritage. Through collaboration, innovation, and sustainable practices, the county continues to balance economic growth with the protection of its natural resources, ensuring a prosperous future for generations to come.

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Geography of Cleveland County, Arkansas https://www.ezinereligion.com/geography-of-cleveland-county-arkansas.html Mon, 11 Mar 2024 17:46:27 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1948 Read More »]]> Cleveland County, situated in the southern part of Arkansas, is a region characterized by a diverse geography that includes forests, rivers, and lowlands. The county’s climate, topography, water bodies, and natural features contribute to its distinct character and influence the local economy and way of life. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the geography of Cleveland County, we’ll explore its climate, topographical features, rivers, lakes, and the broader environmental context. Check ehuacom to learn more about the state of Arkansas.

Climate: Cleveland County experiences a humid subtropical climate, typical of the southern United States. Summers are typically hot and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from 90 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit (32 to 35 degrees Celsius). Winters are generally mild, with average lows rarely dropping below freezing. The region receives a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, contributing to the fertility of the soil and supporting a variety of ecosystems.

Topography: The topography of Cleveland County is characterized by a mix of lowlands and rolling hills. The county is part of the West Gulf Coastal Plain, a region with relatively flat terrain that gradually rises as one moves westward. The landscape is marked by forests, agricultural fields, and pockets of wetlands. This diverse topography influences the local flora and fauna and plays a role in the economic activities of the region.

Forests: Cleveland County is known for its extensive forests, which cover a significant portion of the land. Pine and hardwood forests are prevalent, supporting a variety of tree species such as pine, oak, hickory, and sweetgum. These forests contribute to the county’s natural beauty and serve as a valuable resource for the timber industry. The wooded areas also provide habitats for a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and various bird species.

Water Bodies: Several rivers and creeks traverse Cleveland County, contributing to its hydrological diversity. The Saline River, a major watercourse in the region, flows through the county, providing not only scenic beauty but also serving as a vital resource for water supply, recreation, and supporting aquatic ecosystems. Numerous smaller creeks, such as Black Creek and Hurricane Creek, meander through the landscape, enhancing the county’s natural features and offering opportunities for outdoor activities.

Lakes and Reservoirs: While Cleveland County may not have large natural lakes, it is home to several reservoirs that serve various purposes, including flood control and water supply. One notable example is Lake Chicot, located partially in Cleveland County. Lake Chicot, the largest oxbow lake in North America, is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and birdwatching. Its presence contributes to both recreational opportunities and the ecological diversity of the county.

Agriculture: Agriculture has long been a significant part of Cleveland County’s economy, taking advantage of the fertile soils in the region. Farmers cultivate crops such as soybeans, cotton, rice, and corn, contributing to the agricultural diversity of the area. The Saline River Valley and surrounding lowlands provide prime agricultural land for crop production. The symbiotic relationship between the county’s geography and agricultural activities has shaped the local economy and cultural identity.

Wildlife: The diverse geography of Cleveland County supports a rich variety of wildlife. In addition to the forests providing habitat for deer, turkey, and other game species, the water bodies attract diverse aquatic life and migratory birds. The region’s natural environment makes it a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and birdwatchers who appreciate the county’s biodiversity.

Conservation Efforts: Cleveland County recognizes the importance of conservation efforts to protect its natural resources and biodiversity. Initiatives focus on sustainable forestry practices, wildlife habitat preservation, and water quality management. Conservation partnerships between government agencies, non-profit organizations, and local communities aim to balance economic development with environmental stewardship.

Historical Significance: The geography of Cleveland County has played a role in its historical development. The availability of water resources, fertile land, and timber influenced early settlement patterns and the establishment of communities. Historic sites, including old homesteads, mills, and landmarks, offer glimpses into the county’s past, highlighting the interconnectedness of geography and human history.

Challenges: While Cleveland County enjoys a diverse and productive geography, it faces challenges related to land use, water management, and environmental sustainability. Balancing agricultural practices with conservation efforts, especially in the context of changing climate patterns, is an ongoing concern. Addressing these challenges requires thoughtful planning and collaboration among various stakeholders to ensure the long-term health of the county’s natural resources.

In conclusion, the geography of Cleveland County, Arkansas, is marked by a harmonious blend of forests, rivers, agricultural lands, and lowlands. The county’s climate, topography, and water bodies contribute to its natural beauty, economic activities, and cultural heritage. As Cleveland County continues to evolve, a balanced approach to land use, conservation, and sustainable development will be crucial for maintaining the vitality of its ecosystems and supporting the well-being of its communities.

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Landmarks in Yemen https://www.ezinereligion.com/landmarks-in-yemen.html Sun, 10 Mar 2024 02:03:01 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1944 Read More »]]> Yemen, a country at the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, is a land rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From ancient cities and architectural marvels to stunning landscapes and historical sites, Yemen’s landmarks tell the tale of a nation with a deep-rooted heritage. In this exploration, we will delve into some of the most significant landmarks in Yemen, each contributing to the country’s unique identity and offering a glimpse into its past and present.

Sana’a – Capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site

Old City of Sana’a

The Old City of Sana’a, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a mesmerizing labyrinth of mud-brick buildings, narrow alleyways, and traditional architecture. The city’s skyline is adorned with distinctive tower houses, or “qatari,” featuring intricate geometric patterns. The Great Mosque of Sana’a, one of the oldest mosques in the city, and the Bab al-Yaman, a historic gate, add to the cultural richness of the old city.

Al Saleh Mosque

The Al Saleh Mosque, also known as the Great Mosque of Sana’a, is one of the largest mosques in Yemen. Its impressive architecture incorporates traditional Yemeni design elements, with towering minarets and a vast prayer hall. The mosque, named after former President Ali Abdullah Saleh, is a significant religious and cultural landmark in the capital.

Shibam – The Manhattan of the Desert

Old Walled City of Shibam

Often referred to as the “Manhattan of the Desert,” the Old Walled City of Shibam is renowned for its towering mud-brick skyscrapers. These high-rise buildings, dating back to the 16th century, are a testament to the ingenuity of Yemeni architecture. The city’s vertical skyline is a unique feature, with each building housing multiple stories and serving as both residential and defensive structures.

Taiz – City of Gardens

Al-Qahira Castle

Al-Qahira Castle, situated in the city of Taiz, is a historic fortress that once played a crucial role in the region’s defense. The castle’s architecture reflects a blend of Islamic and Ottoman influences. From its vantage point, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the lush gardens and orchards that earned Taiz the nickname “City of Gardens.”

Al-Mahwit – Mountainous Beauty

Al-Mahwit

Al-Mahwit, a town surrounded by mountains, is known for its scenic landscapes and historical significance. The town features traditional Yemeni architecture, with mud-brick buildings nestled against the rugged terrain. Al-Mahwit is a gateway to the mountains, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region.

Al Hudaydah – Coastal Charm

Al-Hudaydah Seaport

Al-Hudaydah, a port city along the Red Sea, is a vital economic hub and home to the Al-Hudaydah Seaport. The seaport, with its bustling activity and maritime trade, is a key landmark that connects Yemen to the global economy. The city’s coastal charm is complemented by vibrant markets and historical sites.

Marib – Ancient Kingdom

Queen of Sheba’s Palace

Marib, an ancient city with roots dating back to the Sabaean Kingdom, is believed to be the capital of the Queen of Sheba. The Queen of Sheba’s Palace, also known as the Bar’an Temple, is an archaeological site that provides insights into the grandeur of the Sabaean civilization. The remnants of the palace, including columns and inscriptions, stand as a testament to Marib’s historical importance.

Marib Dam

The Marib Dam, an ancient engineering marvel, is one of the oldest dams in the world. Constructed around the 8th century BCE, the dam played a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region. The archaeological site surrounding the dam includes remnants of canals and irrigation systems, offering a glimpse into the advanced engineering skills of ancient Yemeni civilizations.

Ibb – Mountainous Retreat

Dar al-Hajar

Dar al-Hajar, or the Rock Palace, is a picturesque palace perched atop a rock pinnacle near the city of Ibb. The palace, built in the 1930s, served as a summer residence for Imam Yahya. Its unique architecture and strategic location provide stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Dar al-Hajar is a testament to Yemen’s architectural diversity and the integration of natural elements into its structures.

Socotra – Biodiversity Hotspot

Socotra Archipelago

The Socotra Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a group of islands known for their unique and diverse ecosystems. The dragon’s blood trees, with their distinctive umbrella-like shape, and the surreal landscapes contribute to Socotra’s status as a biodiversity hotspot. The archipelago’s isolation has led to the evolution of numerous endemic species, making it a destination for nature enthusiasts.

Hadramawt – Historical Haven

Shibam Hadramawt

According to baglib, Shibam Hadramawt, often referred to as “the oldest skyscraper city in the world,” is another example of Yemen’s exceptional mud-brick architecture. The city is recognized for its well-preserved high-rise buildings, some dating back over 500 years. Shibam Hadramawt is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the architectural ingenuity of the Hadrami people.

Al-Qasr

Al-Qasr, located in the Wadi Hadramawt, is an ancient town with a rich history. The town features mud-brick buildings, narrow alleys, and traditional architecture that reflects its historical significance. Al-Qasr is a cultural landmark that transports visitors back in time, offering a glimpse into the traditions of the Hadramawt region.

Al-Mukalla – Coastal Gem

Al-Mukalla Corniche

Al-Mukalla, a port city along the Gulf of Aden, is known for its picturesque coastline and the Al-Mukalla Corniche. The corniche is a popular waterfront promenade, offering stunning views of the sea and the city. Lined with palm trees, cafes, and recreational areas, the corniche is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.

Yemen’s Historic Gardens

Jannat al-Mu’alla

Jannat al-Mu’alla, located in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, is a historical cemetery with significance for Yemenis. The cemetery is the final resting place of several prominent Yemeni figures, and its inclusion here reflects the cultural ties between Yemen and the wider Islamic world.

Conclusion

Yemen’s landmarks are a testament to the country’s rich history, architectural brilliance, and diverse landscapes. From the ancient mud-brick skyscrapers of Shibam to the natural wonders of Socotra, each landmark contributes to Yemen’s cultural tapestry.

Despite the challenges the country has faced, Yemen’s historical sites, bustling cities, and natural treasures stand as symbols of resilience and cultural continuity. As the nation navigates its path forward, these landmarks remain beacons of Yemen’s unique identity, inviting the world to appreciate the beauty and historical significance that define this enchanting land.

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Windhoek, Namibia https://www.ezinereligion.com/windhoek-namibia.html Fri, 10 Feb 2023 07:23:48 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1617 Read More »]]> Windhoek is the capital of Namibia, located almost in the very center of the country at the foot of Mount Eros. From here, most tours around the country begin and end here – after all, the only international airport in the country (45 km from the city) is located here. See CITYPOPULATIONREVIEW for weather information.

The Namibian capital is an amazing city imbued with a German spirit (once the city was the capital of the colony of German South West Africa), so do not be surprised by the numerous monuments designed in the style of German colonialism. One of these is an equestrian monument in honor of those who died during the 1904 uprising in the city center. Also popular with tourists is the nearby Alte Feste fort, which houses the National Museum of Namibia. But no one has canceled the African roots of this amazing land, so you can get enough of the explosive mixture of ornaments, textures, color combinations in the National Gallery, and dig into the history of the country in the halls of the Ovel Museum. Intelligence Directorate of Namibia.

How to get there

You won’t be able to transfer at the beckon of a direct flight to Namibia, so you will have to use transit through Frankfurt (Lufthansa airline) or through South Africa (Emirates, Qatar Airways, British Airways). The duration of the flight will take 14 hours.

Transport

The main mode of transport is a taxi, as buses and minibuses mainly run between the airport and the center. The intercity bus or tourist train “Desert Express” (The Desert Express), which connects Windhoek with Swakopmund, will take you to the right place.

2 things to do in Windhoek

  1. Buy wooden sculptures of the Avango tribe at the souvenir market in the town of Okahandja.
  2. Get in October to the analogue of the famous German festival, your own Namibian Octoberfest, and drink a local foamy drink, the best varieties: Windhoek Lager, Tafel Lager, Windhoek Export, Windhoek Special and Windhoek Light and Das (Pilsner).

Entertainment and attractions of Windhoek

The main attractions of the capital include the “Ink Palace” (Tintenpalast), where the Parliament is now located, the neo-Gothic Church of Jesus (Christ Church) built in 1896, as well as the Old Fortress (Alte Feste), the Presidential Palace and the National Theater, the Exhibition of Meteorites on the Post- Street and numerous picturesque mansions in the German style.

Gamsberg Pass

The Gamsberg Pass, a colorful and interesting tourist route towards the Atlantic, is located southwest of Windhoek and runs through the Namib Desert along the Kuiseb River. Overcoming this path will give a lot of discoveries.

Okahandja

You can get acquainted with clumsy, funny birds at the Ombo ostrich farm in the town of Okahandja, which is located 70 km to the north. Also of interest is the local missionary church, which has long turned into a historical monument, the graves of the leaders of the Herero tribe, the Von Bach resort area, where you can watch baboons, and, of course, the Gross-Barmen thermal springs..

Daan-Viljun Reserve

A local safari is another way to saturate your vacation in a mysterious African country with emotions. Therefore, most tourists tend to get to Wundhoek, the starting point of all safari routes. The Daan-Viljun Nature Reserve, located 20 kilometers west of the center of Windhoek, is one of these. Meeting with mountain zebras, giraffes and wildebeest is guaranteed here.

Damaraland

The desert area of ​​Damaraland, filled with the romance of primordial wildness, is located southwest of Otchiwarongo. Mandatory for inspection: rock paintings (4-2 thousand years BC), erosional forms of Wingerklip, “Stone Forest” (a national reserve in which you can see trees petrified 300 million years ago), White Lady rocks dotted with ancient petroglyphs. Spitzkopp mountains (1728 m) and Pondox peak (1692 m). The latter, by the way, are ideal for mountaineering and trekking.

Night life

Despite the seeming tranquility, incendiary music often rumbles in the city at night, bars are open until dawn, and shopaholics from all over the world are constantly cashing out their credit cards in stores. Chez-Ntemba clubs, Thriller Club, Tower Bar and Lee Di Da dance floor enjoy special love of visitors.

By the way, alcohol in Wundhoek is sold only in specialized stores on weekdays until 17:00, until 13:00 on Saturday, and on Sundays, alas, these stores are closed.

Windhoek, Namibia

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Korcula, Croatia https://www.ezinereligion.com/korcula-croatia.html Fri, 03 Feb 2023 07:40:54 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1614 Read More »]]> Korcula

Croats are proud that the great traveler Marco Polo was born in Croatia on the island of Korcula. This is one of the most beautiful islands in Croatia, with centuries-old pine forests and lush Mediterranean vegetation that completely covers the island. The sandy beaches of the island are located in quiet, calm coves. According to petwithsupplies, Korcula is one of the largest cities in Croatia.

The hot summer here softens the sea wind, creating ideal conditions for windsurfing. Fans of sports and outdoor activities will be able to take part in competitions of tennis players and yachtsmen. Most hotels and campsites have sports grounds for playing volleyball and basketball.

In addition, it is on Korcula that the famous Croatian white wines “Grk” and “Poship” are made.

Phone numbers

8-10-385-20-phone number

How to get to Korcula

The island can be reached by direct bus from Zagreb (journey time 10 hours), Dubrovnik (branded bus Korčula Bus, travel time about 3 hours), Split, Sarajevo.

The ferry service is operated by Jadrolinija. Every 20-30 minutes, regular ferries depart from the town of Korcula to mainland Orebic. Long-distance ferries link Split with Vela Luka (150 HRK), Dubrovnik with Korcula (130 HRK), Rijeka with the island (ferry Marko Polo, travel time 10 hours), Italian city of Bari with the island (ferry Marko Polo, travel time 12 hours).

Also, the high-speed catamaran Krilo departs daily at 6:00 am from Korcula to Split, calling at the village of Prigraditsa on the northern tip of the island and on the island of Hvar. Return departure along the route Split – Korcula at 16:00-17:00 (journey time 2.5 hours).

Prices on the page are for July 2021.

Buses

The main public transport on the island is the bus. It runs from Korcula to Vela Luka about 8 times a day (from 4:10 to 19:00, 50 minutes on the way) and from Korcula to Lumbarda (once an hour).

Entertainment and attractions of Korcula

The central part of the city of Korcula is formed by the old castle, the basis of which is the Cathedral of St. Mark.

The main attractions of the island are the monastery sacristy, the exhibition of paintings by Leonardo da Vinci and Jacopo Tintoretto, a rich collection of icons.

“Moreska” is a knightly dance of the 15th century, which used to be popular throughout the Mediterranean, but today it is preserved only in the city of Korcula. As a matter of fact, this is not just a dance, but a real performance, during which the armies of white (good) and black (guess which) kings fight for the love of a girl. During the summer, “Moreška” is staged in Korčula on a weekly basis.

Hum

Hum with its 17 inhabitants is included in the Guinness Book of Records as the smallest city in the world. This smallest city in the world is located in the heart of Istria. It is part of the Buzet district, and 14 km from the city of Buzet.

How to get there

Huma can be reached by car, sightseeing bus or on foot, as many tourists do for the purpose of sightseeing and enjoying the beautiful scenery. The most interesting road to Hum is, of course, the so-called “Alley of the Glagolitic”, stretching from Rocha to Hum, along the entire length of which there are large monument stones in the fields along the sides, each of which represents one letter from the Glagolitic alphabet. Hum has been one of the most famous verb centers since the 11th century. The Glagolitic alphabet was also used here at the beginning of the 20th century. Currently, writing in the Glagolitic alphabet is presented in Hum and its surroundings on ancient monuments and during various modern events.

History of Huma

Hum got its modern look in the Middle Ages, more precisely in the 11th century. It was then that the Khum castle was built on the ruins of an ancient fortress, and near it the first row of houses of the future town. At that time, Istria was part of a large French kingdom. Count Ulrich I built and renovated a number of castles on the border lines of his possession, including this one in Hum. In 1102, Ulrich II gives Hum and several other castles into the possession of the Aquillian patriarch. The deed contains the following name of the city “castrum Cholm” (according to the ancient Croatian word Chlm). This document is the first written mention of Huma in his long history. Until the 17th century, Hum was referred to in historical documents as “castrum”, which means “fortress” in translation.

Entertainment and attractions in Huma

Today, Hum is a monumental city and one of the rare well-preserved examples of a city whose development took place exclusively within the early medieval walls. From the beginning of its foundation to the present moment, practically nothing has been built in Hum outside the city, the population has remained to live within the boundaries established in the early Middle Ages.

In Hum, frescoes created in the second half of the 12th century are perfectly preserved. At that time, Hum belonged to the Aquillian dynasty, which, most likely, ordered their production. The author of these frescoes is unknown, but his skill testifies to us that this is a high-class professional, whose creations cannot be compared with any others both in Istria and in its neighboring regions. The frescoes are made in the spirit of the romantic West and, at the same time, under the influence of Byzantine art. In the Romanesque chapel of St. Hierolim at the Khumi cemetery, some very old wall paintings of high quality have also been partially preserved.

Korcula, Croatia

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Kruger, South Africa https://www.ezinereligion.com/kruger-south-africa.html Fri, 30 Dec 2022 03:22:34 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1611 Read More »]]> Kruger National Park is South Africa’s most famous and most profitable national park. Situated on an area of ​​almost 2 million hectares (nothing less, but the whole of Israel could easily fit here), Kruger Park is divided into 14 eco-zones, each of which boasts completely different representatives of flora and fauna. However, Kruger owes its wild popularity among tourists primarily to the presence of the “big five”: lion, rhinoceros, elephant, buffalo and leopard.

Despite the fact that the north of the park is much more spectacular and original, it is the southern part that is more popular and mastered by tourists.

Note: according to allcitypopulation, the population of South Africa is 60.04 million (2021).

History and modernity

The park was founded in 1898 by ex-president Paul Krueger with the aim of protecting the environment and the priceless endangered species of animals. However, the park opened its doors to tourists only in 1927. In April 2002, the Great Limpopo Transnational Park began operation, uniting Kruger Park in South Africa, Gonareju, Mangini Pan and Malipati parks in Zimbabwe and Limpopo in Mozambique. Today it is the largest national park in the world. In addition, state borders are abolished on the territory of the “Greater Limpopo” and tourists can visit it with a visa of one of the three countries.

How to get to Kruger

There are three airports near the park:

Phalaborwa Airport (Phalaborwa), which is 2 km from the entrance gate and the town of Phalaborwa. It is convenient to fly here for those who have booked lodges in the north (Letaba, Olifants, Punda Maria, Shingwedzi, etc.) The airport has good communication with Johanburg, as a rule, two flights a day on weekdays, and one on weekends. There is a rent-a-car office at the airport.

Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport has flights from Johannesburg (1 hour), Durban (1.5 hours), Cape Town (2.5 hours) and Vilanculos. Car rental offices galore: Budget, Hertz, Europcar, Imperial Car Rental and National. From here to the entrance to the park through the gate to them. Paul Kruger 82 km, Malelane 63 km, Numbi 40 km and Phabeni Gate 76 km.

There is also a small airport Malelane for private and business flights (Malelane Regional Airport), located at the entrance to Malelane.

Kruger transport

When renting a car, it is worth remembering that the N4 highway is a toll road, all entrances to the park are closed after dark, and gas stations do not accept plastic cards. In itself, driving in the dark here is a small pleasure. The roads are of poor quality, there is either no or sparse lighting, the locals calmly walk along the edge of the road, and in some sections wild animals can be encountered along the way. But all these troubles end with the entrance to the park.

The Kruger National Park is open from dawn to dusk, in simple words, with the onset of darkness, entry into the reserve stops.

The Kruger National Park is open from dawn to dusk, in simple words, with the onset of darkness, entry into the reserve stops. As a rule, the gates operate in the following mode: November-February from 5:30 to 18:30, March – 5:30-18:00, April from 6:00 to 18:00, May-July 6:00-17:30, August-September from 6:00 to 18:00, October 5:30-18:00. Moving by car after sunset is fraught with high fines.

The maximum speed is 50 km/h on ordinary roads, 40 km/h on gravel roads and 20 km/h on the territory of the lodge. Subject to these speeds, a trip from south to north of Kruger will not take more than 10 hours.

On the territory of the reserve there is only one rental-a-car office Avis, which is located in the lodge Skukuza.

It is necessary to be extremely attentive to the behavior of animals, especially elephants and rhinos, which can be very dangerous even for a car! The roads in the park are of very good quality.

Safety in Kruger

For your own safety, you must not:

  • get out of the car outside the lodge
  • feed animals
  • bring pets with you
  • ride in the dark

Kruger Hotels

There are many camps and lodges in the park, on the territory of which, in addition to direct accommodation facilities, there are supermarkets, restaurants, tourist offices, picnic and barbecue places, laundries, public kitchens and swimming pools. Almost all places of this kind accept plastic cards. In addition, you can find a haven outside the park (where, by the way, you can shamelessly leave your car without fear that something will happen to it).

There are many camps and lodges in the park, on the territory of which, in addition to direct accommodation facilities, there are supermarkets, restaurants, tourist offices, picnic areas and barbecues.

The comfort and service of lodges depends on the size: from a simple tent to mini-cities with swimming pools, libraries, restaurants and golf courses. On average, the concentration of lodges in the park is so great that the distance between them is no more than two hours by car.

Entertainment and attractions of Kruger

The park is divided into 16 separate sections with different “sets” of plants and animals. In total, about 250,000 animals (147 species), about 50 species of fish, 33 species of amphibians, more than a hundred species of reptiles and 500 species of birds live in it. Ethnographic villages and several small private reserves are located in the park area. In addition, there are more than 250 archaeological sites in the park, including artifacts from the Stone and Iron Ages.

Arriving in Kruger Park for the first time, it is advisable to take a group tour with a guide who will tell you about the rules of conduct, main attractions and other important little things. The tour can be booked at the lodges Berg en dal, Letaba and Skukuza, the cost is from 190 ZAR. The cost of staying in the park for foreigners is 331-166 ZAR (adult / child) per day.

Kruger, South Africa

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Easter Island, Chile https://www.ezinereligion.com/easter-island-chile.html Fri, 23 Dec 2022 12:31:16 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1609 Read More »]]> Hititeairaghi, Rapa Nui, Te Pito-o-te-henua, Tekaouhangoaru are all other names for the area we know as Easter Island. For most people, Easter Island is associated with something mysterious – and no wonder: it is famous for the huge stone statues lined up along the coast. They stare out at the ocean with painted eyes, and this look is both creepy and mesmerizing. One of the main questions is how did these 10-meter idols get there? — is still unresolved. Tourists flock here in the hope of unraveling the mystery, but they return home hung with souvenirs and… without an answer.

Note: according to allcitypopulation, the population of Chile is 19.21 million (2021).

How to get there

Easter Island is part of Valparaiso, one of the regions of Chile. There are two ways to get to the island, both of which are expensive. The first is on a tourist yacht or cruise ship, which sometimes come here. You can go on an independent trip and call at the port in a couple of weeks.

The second way is by air, there is an airport on the island that receives flights from the Chilean capital Santiago, Tahiti and Lima. The flight schedule depends on the season: for example, from December to March, flights are operated only once a week. In other months – twice a week. The flight from Santiago takes about 5 hours.

Transportation

All the attractions of the island are close to each other, and the territory itself is small. On Easter Island, you can ride a taxi, bike or rent a car. It is almost impossible to get lost on the island, as there are only two roads.

The average cost of renting a car is from 95 USD per day with a full tank of gasoline. By the way, it is better to refuel completely – it will be difficult to do this on the island. Prices on the page are for November 2022.

Easter Island beaches

There are several beaches on Easter Island, but Anakena is the best choice. Locals even warn that they can swim only here. There are several cafes on the sandy beach, and in general the local landscape is somewhat reminiscent of the Black Sea coast: there are stalls with cold water on the beach, natives sell sweets and other snacks, and the smell of barbecue is in the air. Only instead of the sea – the ocean.

Cuisine and restaurants

There are enough small cafes on the island where you can have a cheap meal. On the menu, you should choose seafood dishes, such as soup or tuna steak. In general, the steaks here are very good – from meat and fish, with potatoes and herbs. Local beer is soft and very pleasant.

Some restaurants are built very close to the water. They stand on stilts, while the owners of the establishment can demolish one of the walls so that visitors can enjoy the view of the ocean.

Easter Island Hotels

There is only one city on the island where you can stay in a hotel – Hanga Roa. Most tourists prefer mini-hotels, rather than network operators, and yet the cost of living is rather big. The fact is that many goods are imported to the island from the mainland, which increases their price. The most expensive hotel on the island is Explora EN RAPA NUI. There are 30 rooms, a restaurant with an outdoor terrace, a bar, a souvenir boutique, an outdoor pool, a massage parlor, an open-air jacuzzi.

One of the ways to earn money for the inhabitants of the island is to rent apartments. At the airport, each new plane is met by a crowd of local residents, vying with each other offering accommodation in hotels or in their homes.

There is also a campsite on the island – here you can pitch a tent or rent a very simple room for little money, and with the Internet. To get to the campsite, you need to find a guide at the airport with a Mihinoa sign – this is the name of the place where you will stay.

The shops

Selling souvenirs is one of the main sources of income for the islanders. In shops and shops you can buy idols of different sizes, from pocket ones to 2-3 meters. The main thing is that you can take this piece of wood out of the country to your homeland. Especially popular are the “kawakawa” statues – either a person or a ghost – and, of course, magnets, necklaces, beads, hats, headbands, and embroidered shoes.

Entertainment and attractions of Easter Island

Moai

Stone moai are carved from the petrified volcanic ash. These are stylized human figures with short bodies and elongated heads. The weight of each of the idols reaches almost 20 tons. According to the beliefs of local residents, they contain the supernatural power of the ancestors of the first king of Easter Island – Hotu Matua.

Moai stand along the coast and look at the island. Hundreds of books have been written about the history of their occurrence, films have been made, but there are still no clues. Someone believes that aliens brought them to the island, others are sure that only giant people 3-4 meters tall could make such statues. Another version is that these idols themselves came to the island, but later forgot how to walk and stayed here forever. In total, there are about 900 statues on the island, most of which are located near the Rano Raraku volcano.

Volcanoes

The craters of the volcanoes Rano Kau and Rano Raraku are another attraction of Easter Island. It was from the remains of Rano Raraku that the moai were made. Half-finished statues are scattered in the pit of this volcano. Inside Rano Kau, the view is breathtaking – the crater is filled with rainwater, covered with islands of grass, and the sky is reflected in this giant lake.

Orongo Village

The ceremonial village of Orongo is located on the edge of the Rano Kau crater. Ceremonies dedicated to the bird-man were once held here. In the village you can find many cobblestones on which images of the god Make-Make and the bird-man are carved.

Hanga Roa Church

This is a Catholic church famous for its wood carvings. Looking at it, it seems that the building itself is carved from wood. Craftsmen work here, and on Sundays music services are held.

5 things to do on Easter Island:

  1. In late January – early February, visit the unique Tapati festival, which probably has no analogues in the world. It takes place in late January or early February. “Tapati” is a cross-section of the culture of Easter Island, and not an export version, but a real one. The natives sing, dance and measure their strength.
  2. Climb to the ceremonial site Te-Pito-te-Khenua, whose name in Rapanui means “navel of the earth”.
  3. Arrange a romantic picnic in the palm groves of Anakena Bay.
  4. Come up with your own legend about moai – and then tell it to the locals. They love to listen to versions of how the statues appeared at Easter. You will be listened to attentively, maybe your story will be written down if it is unique, and will be placed in the collected works of tourists.
  5. Visit the village of Orongo and see numerous petroglyphs with images of birdmen and the god Make-Make. By the way, this island had its own written language, rongo-rongo, which has not yet been deciphered.

Easter Island, Chile

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US 74, 76, 78 and 79 in Tennessee https://www.ezinereligion.com/us-74-76-78-and-79-in-tennessee.html Fri, 16 Dec 2022 13:50:01 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1607 Read More »]]> US 74 in Tennessee
US 74
Get started Cleveland
End Isabella
Length 43 mi
Length 69 km
Route
  • Cleveland
  • Ocoee
  • North Carolina

According to Ablogtophone, US 74 is a US Highway in the US state of Tennessee. The road forms an east-west route in the southeastern part of the state, from Cleveland to the North Carolina border. US 74 is 69 kilometers long in Tennessee.

Travel directions

US 64/74 in eastern Tennessee.

US 74 begins at Cleveland on Interstate 75 and then forms Cleveland’s southern beltway. About a third of the route is a divided highway. The entire route is double -numbered with US 64 in Tennessee.

History

US 74 was created in 1926. Its western starting point was originally Asheville, and only since 1987 does US 74 run through Tennessee, starting first in Chattanooga, later shortened to Cleveland.

A bypass has been constructed near Cleveland for both east-west and north-south traffic on US 11 and US 64/74. The bypass is mainly a part of US 64/74. The first section of this between I-75 and US 11 on the south side of Cleveland opened in October 1966, at the same time as I-75. In November 1970 an extension opened east to Blue Springs Road and in May 1972 to old US 64 east of Cleveland, completing the city’s bypass for US 64 traffic. Presumably in the 1970s, US 64 between Cleveland and Ocoee was also widened to a 2×2 divided highway. In the 1980s, the easternmost section between Ducktown and the North Carolina border was widened to 2×2 lanes.

US 76 in Tennessee

US 76
Get started Chattanooga
End Lakeview
Length 9 mi
Length 14 km
Route
  • Chattanooga
  • Lakeview
  • Georgia

US 76 is US Highway in the US state of Tennessee. The road forms a 14-kilometer route in the Chattanooga urban area.

Travel directions

US 76 begins in downtown Chattanooga, where it intersects US 41 and US 64. The road heads southeast out of the city as an urban arterial. There are connections with Interstate 24 and Interstate 75. Just outside Chattanooga the border follows with Georgia, after which US 76 in Georgia continues to Dalton.

History

US 76 is one of the original US Highways of 1926, but at the time it only ran in South Carolina. In 1932, the western starting point was changed from Greenville, South Carolina to Chattanooga, Tennessee, creating the current route in Tennessee.

In Chattanooga, US 76 crosses Missionary Ridge, a ridge to the east of the city. This location is known for the Battle of Missionary Ridge during the American Civil War in 1863. In 1929 the Bachman Tunnel was built under the ridge, this was the third tunnel in Chattanooga. During the 20th century, the area surrounding US 76 was transformed into a retail corridor.

US 78 in Tennessee

US 78
Get started Memphis
End Memphis
Length 12 mi
Length 19 km
Route
  • Memphis
  • Mississippi

US 78 is a US Highway in the US state of Tennessee. The road forms an east-west route through the city of Memphis and is 19 kilometers long.

Travel directions

US 78 at I-240 in Memphis.

US 78 begins at downtown Memphis and heads southeast along Lamar Avenue. The entire route is a divided highway and US 78 is a major access road from Memphis, especially south of Interstate 240, directly on the border with Mississippi US 78 continues as a freeway (I-22) to Birmingham.

History

US 78 was created in 1926. The route has not changed significantly in Tennessee since then. However, US 78 has been widened to a divided highway.

US 78 has been upgraded to Interstate 22 in Mississippi and Alabama. In Tennessee that is not the case, the I-22 starts directly on the border between Tennessee and Mississippi. It is unclear what will happen in the future, the entire US 78 west of Birmingham may be scrapped.

US 79 in Tennessee

US 79
Get started Memphis
End Clarksville
Length 210 mi
Length 338 km
Route
  • Arkansas
  • Memphis
  • Arlington
  • Brownsville
  • Humboldt
  • Milan
  • McKenzie
  • Paris
  • Dover
  • Clarksville
  • Kentucky

US 79 is a US Highway in the US state of Tennessee. The road forms an east-west route through the west and north of the state, from the Arkansas border at Memphis to the Kentucky border at Clarksville. US 79 is 238 miles long in Tennessee.

Travel directions

US 79 at Clarksville.

US 79 runs diagonally through Tennessee, paralleling Interstate 40 east of Memphis at first, then gradually increasing distance. Parts of the route are divided highway, especially from McKenzie via Paris to Kentucky Lake and in the Clarksville area. US 79 serves two major cities, Memphis and Clarksville. As a result, US 79 is of some through importance between the two cities.

History

US 64/70/79 in Memphis.

US 79 was added to the network in 1935 but initially ran no further east than West Memphis in Arkansas. In 1944 the route was extended through Tennessee to Kentucky.

The southwestern portion of US 79 coincides with US 70 and US 70A. North of Milan, US 79 forms an independent route, parts of which have been widened to a 2×2 divided highway. In 2008, the southwestern approach road from McKenzie was widened from 2 to 5 lanes. In the early 2000s, the route from McKenzie to Paris was widened to a 2×2 divided highway, with a diversion at Henry.

An eastern bypass of Paris was built between 1988 and 1990, but it only became interesting for through traffic on the US 79 when the southern part was also built around 1995. In the early 1990s, the part between Paris and the bridge over the Tennessee River widened to 2×2 lanes. In 2007-2012, US 79 between the Tennessee River and Clarksville was widened to 2×2/5 lanes.

US 79 in Tennessee

]]>
Katowice, Poland https://www.ezinereligion.com/katowice-poland.html Fri, 09 Dec 2022 06:21:28 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1605 Read More »]]> Poland is a country with a rich and long history. There is not a single city here that does not have a centuries-old supply of legends and true stories about its long past. And even the relatively young city of Katowice, founded in the early 19th century, will be much older than its official age. After all, a settlement in these parts has existed since the 14th century, and already in the 18th century the first coal mine appeared here. In our time, Katowice, which has grown significantly, continues to be the center of the country’s coal industry, and the historical baggage accumulated by it interests tourists no less than boiling modernity. See JIBIN123 for Poland customs regulations and visa requirements.

How to get to Katowice

Katowice has the honorary status of the capital of Upper Silesia, and the main city of the region cannot do without its own airport. It is located 34 km north of the city and regularly receives flights from Polish and major foreign cities. Local flights are operated by LOT, the Warsaw-Katowice flight takes an hour. A bus runs from the airport to the city approximately every 30 minutes, the fare on it will cost 5 EUR, to go to the center – 50 minutes maximum.

You can also order a transfer to Katowice in this car company. Buses of the same company can easily reach all the surrounding cities of the region. The schedule of buses from other cities in Poland can be viewed here, and for certain directions you can immediately buy a ticket. When plotting your route, pay close attention to the distance between the starting point and the destination. For example, a bus trip from Warsaw will last about 6-7 hours and cost about 7-9 EUR, but from Krakow – only 1.5 hours and about 6-8 EUR.

The railway connects Katowice with major Polish and foreign cities. There are flights from the capital of Poland (about 14 trains a day, travel time 3 hours, cost 8-13 EUR), Krakow (trains depart approximately every hour, travel time 1.5 hours, 5-8 EUR), as well as Vienna, Bratislava, Kiev, Berlin, etc. Ticket prices vary depending on the length of the route, the selected carriage class and the type of train. You can check prices and timetables on this website.

Katowice Hotels

It cannot be said that there is such an abundance of hotels in Katowice, but still there is plenty to choose from. At Jopi Hostel for 11-14 EUR per person you can rent a double room, which will have free access to Wi-Fi, and in the morning they will serve toast with jam and tea and coffee. The three-star Hotel Diament will ask its guests from 27-30 EUR per night, and the rooms in the four-star Best Western Premier Katowice Hotel will cost from 35 to 130 EUR per night. Up-to-date information about accommodation in Katowice can always be found on the city website. When researching accommodation, do not forget that during the holiday season there may be problems with places in hotels, while during the rest of the year you can not even book a hotel.

Cuisine and restaurants in Katowice

It may seem strange for an industrial city (where, it would seem, hearty and high-calorie food should be popular), but one of the most popular cafes in it is the Golden Ass vegetarian establishment. The unique spirit of the hippie movement hovers here to this day, and concerts and poetry evenings invariably gather a large audience here. However, the city does not experience a shortage of places serving delicious and hearty dishes of national cuisine. Karcma pod Strzechom and Marysin Dwór, decorated in an old rustic style that fits the name, are always welcome visitors. Fans of Italian cuisine will not pass by the La Grotta trattoria, located in the city center (on Wawelska Street), not far from the pedestrian part, and exotic lovers will undoubtedly be delighted to find Chinese Restauracja a Dong on Matejki Street. And do not forget about the surroundings of the city! For example, about Promienice, where delicious food is served in a restaurant in the forest.

Shopping and stores

It is impossible to be in the city and not walk through the local souvenir shops and shopping centers. We will not even try to do this (especially since in Katowice there are extremely pleasant low prices for many goods), but we will immediately inform you that real shopaholics need to remember these names: Katowice Gallery, Silesium City Center on Chozowska Street and Rawa Park near the city center. The Trzy Stawy shopping center is also quite good and deserves attention, as well as all kinds of shops in the pedestrian part of the city selling various souvenirs.

Entertainment and attractions in Katowice

30 km south of Katowice is the world-famous Auschwitz. You can get from the city to the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial complex by train, the tour is possible only as part of an organized group and costs 10 EUR maximum (if the guide tells a story not in Polish). Since visiting this mournful place makes a very strong and depressing impression, do not take children with you.

Katowice itself, despite all its modernity and industrialism, is an interesting city. The Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary (or Maryatsky Church, as the locals call it), made in the New Gothic style, the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in the Baroque style and the wooden Church of St. Michael the Archangel are excellent examples of architecture of past centuries. Of the modern sights, one can single out the Spodek sports and entertainment center, a monument to the heroes of the three Silesian uprisings, and the monumental concert hall of Silesia. There are many museums in the city: archaeological, historical, museum of ancient interiors, and even an excellent planetarium and observatory – children especially like it.

Adults will certainly be interested in trips to the nearby towns of Gliwice, Racibórz, Sosnowiec, Zabrze, where you can admire the mountains and castles. And, of course, numerous festivals (theatrical, blues and metal, cinematic and folk) taking place in the city from spring to autumn. But all kinds of exhibitions and concerts are held here all year round, so it is very, very difficult to call Katowice dull.

Katowice, Poland

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East America https://www.ezinereligion.com/east-america.html Thu, 01 Dec 2022 15:15:43 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1599 Read More »]]> Bustling metropolises such as New York City, Chicago, Philadelphia and Washington DC, but also the world-famous waterfalls of Niagara Falls and the particularly charming Lancaster County and the lakes around Michigan and Chicago. A holiday in East America actually offers everything.

Most beautiful places in East America

According to growtheology, East America is made up of the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Michigan, New York, Ohio and Wisconsin. Many people think of New York City as the highlight of this area, but all states have their own unique highlights and attractions that make them more than worth a visit. And because you can always be from the busy cities in the middle of overwhelming nature reserves within a few hours of travel or vice versa, a holiday in East America is truly a holiday for everyone!

Indian Summer

Because of the impressive colors of nature in the Indian Summer, autumn is the ideal time for nature lovers to visit East America for a holiday. Drive for hours through the most intense autumn colors and enjoy the unique view. The average temperature of 20 degrees also makes autumn, just like spring, a perfect time to discover this part of the United States.

Magical Caves in East America

You should actually visit Apostle Islands National Lake Shore in Wisconsin at least twice: in the winter and in the summer. This protected part of Lake Michigan consists of 21 islands, beaches and forests. Erosion has created countless caves in the colorful rocks, which have been given a special appearance by weather, wind and waves. In the summer it is great to visit by kayak and in the winter you can walk through the imposing ice caves that are created.

Water, nature and city

Water lovers can indulge themselves in many places on holiday in East America. Countless lakes and rivers offer every opportunity to enjoy the water. Like in Cleveland ( Ohio ), which, like Buffalo, is on Lake Erie. Relax by the water, enjoy nature or explore the city. You will find the perfect mix for your holiday here.

Great Lakes State

Subsequently, the state of Michigan is almost completely surrounded by the waters of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. With more than eleven thousand large and small lakes within its borders, Michigan can rightfully call itself the ‘Great Lakes State’. Water is never far away here!

From picturesque St. Ignace, take the ferry to Mackinac Island, where cars are not allowed and people travel by horse and buggy. This not only gives a sense of tranquility, it also takes you back to earlier times. A unique experience during your holiday in East America.

Breathtaking sand dunes, unique flora and fauna and many deep blue lakes can be found in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park. Do you want more action on the water during your holiday in East America? Which can! Water skiing, kayaking, boating, swimming or fishing, Michigan brings it all.

Would you like to start your journey with a visit to one of the impressive metropolises in the region? For example, start in Washington DC with its political and cultural history and see if ‘Mister President’ is in the White House. Or visit Philadelphia, a city with a very rich history, which you can experience in Independence Hall, for example.

History and Politics of East America

Would you like to start your holiday in East America with a visit to one of the impressive metropolises in the region? For example, start in Washington DC with its political and cultural history and see if ‘Mister President’ is in the White House. Or visit Philadelphia, a city with a very rich history, which you can experience in Independence Hall, for example.

Immigrants

Find the roots of the Dutch immigrants in the town of Holland with its Holland Museum and the Holland Farmers Market. How nice is it as a Dutchman to visit the town of Holland during a holiday in East America?

More American history can be found in Grand Rapids, at the Gerald R. Ford Museum, dedicated to the 38th president of the USA.

The fact that the French also had their influence in this region in the past is reflected in towns such as Marquette and Charlevoix. And in Flint you can see the remnants of the once thriving auto industry in this city.

Visit Amish in East America

Like Lancaster County in Pennsylvania , Nappanee is a great place to get to know the Amish and the way they live their lives. Horse and carriage that find their way between the cars and many old buildings often determine the streetscape. You feel like a guest in American history.

The same goes for Gettysburg, where the biggest battle of the American Civil War took place in 1863. In the hills surrounding this city, declared a national monument, are gigantic cemeteries that remind of those dark days, when about 51,000 soldiers lost their lives. An impressive place.

Civil war

The town of Frederick in Maryland is also best known for the Civil War and its Historic District, which measures no less than 40 blocks. Just an hour’s drive from Washington DC, a nice trip during a city trip on your East America holiday.

Sights during Holiday East America

During your holiday in East America you will visit iconic cities such as New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Chicago and Washington DC. East America also has a lot to offer in terms of nature, such as the world-famous Niagara Falls and the lakes around Michigan and Chicago. A holiday in East America offers a variety of everything and you will not get bored easily!

New York

It is clear that New York City is by far the biggest attraction in the state. Yet the state of New York offers much more than just The Big Apple. How about Niagara Falls, the overwhelming waterfalls. Experience the power of the water during a cruise and enjoy the spectacular view. But a visit to Rochester – including the photography museum in the George Eastman House – on the south shore of Lake Ontario is also well worth it. Just like the imposing Adirondack Mountains NP. A mountain range with no less than 42 peaks higher than 1,200 meters and overwhelming nature on the flanks and in the valleys. On the north shore of Lake Erie, Buffalo is the gateway to Canada. A visit to this city can easily be combined with a visit to Niagara Falls.

Indy 500

The state of Indiana has benefited greatly from its central location in its development. Capital Indianapolis was at the heart of the ‘industrial axis’ between New York and Chicago and quickly became an important hub. That Indianapolis still is, is proven by the beautiful skyline with its mix of historic and modern buildings.

Memorial Circle is centrally located in the city, where the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument is located. Other city highlights include the Indianapolis Zoo, Indiana World War Memorial Plaza, and the nearly 200 city parks, museums, and historic districts. But perhaps the city is best known for its annual Indy 500 car races!

South Bend in Indiana is also well worth a visit. South Bend has several particularly beautiful and impressive buildings that you can visit, such as the Basilica of the Sacred Heart and the University of Notre Dame. Or delve into the history of a now-defunct car brand at the Studebaker National Museum.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin is the milk and cheese state of America. The capital, Madison, has been called the ‘most livable city’ in the country. Probably due to the relaxed atmosphere that hangs in this university city. Although Milwaukee is not the capital of Wisconsin, it is the most populous city in the state. The hometown of the men behind the Harley Davidson motorcycles and home to one of the largest music festivals in the world. Just outside the city you can imagine yourself in the Netherlands during the Kermis Dutch Festival in Little Chute.

Architecture enthusiasts can visit Taliesin and the estate of the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright in Spring Green.

Route 66

To the west of East America lies Chicago, also known as The Windy City. On the southwest shore of Lake Michigan, this vibrant city offers world-renowned architecture and an abundance of culture, art and music. But the city of Chicago, in the state of Illinois , is also known as the starting point of the famous Route 66 that eventually ends in Los Angeles.

That same Route 66 also runs through Springfield. A town that is definitely worth visiting. Not only is it the ‘Gateway to the Great Outdoors’, you will find many historic buildings and museums that take you back to the days of the pioneers.

Open Air Museum

With its amazing mix of historic buildings from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and glittering skyscrapers, Philadelphia can be described as an open-air museum. The city is the cradle of American history, but also of the famous ‘Philly Cheese Steak’. A sandwich with warm meat, bell pepper, onion and lots of cheese. You must have tasted it!

Pittsburgh is also worth a visit. The city with no less than 446 bridges, all of which connect downtown with the other districts, are yellow in color. Or rather Aztec Gold, together with black the official colors of Pittsburgh. Derived from the stripes on the uniform of the city’s namesake: William Pitt, the Briton who liberated Fort Duquesne from the French during the Seven Years’ War.

Annapolis

Another pearl you can visit in Maryland during your East America holiday – and is even closer to ‘Capital City’ – is Annapolis. Located on the water, the ‘sailing capital of America’ offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy water sports, shopping, delicious food and drink, history and beautiful nature.

And with that, it really embodies everything that Northeast America has to offer. So rent a car or camper and discover this historic and adventurous region!

Great Lakes State

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Shopping and Eating in Faro, Portugal https://www.ezinereligion.com/shopping-and-eating-in-faro-portugal.html Fri, 25 Nov 2022 08:36:33 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1597 Read More »]]> Faro Shopping

There are many shops in the Algarve capital. There are large shopping centers and small shops with products of local craftsmen. One of the largest and most beautiful shopping centers not only in Faro, but in the entire region is Forum Algarve (more than 200 shops, a cinema, restaurants). It is located near the airport, at the entrance to the city from Albufeira along highway number 125. In the center of Faro, most of the shops are concentrated in the pedestrian area of ​​Rua Santa António, as well as in the old town near the Cathedral.

Sales usually occur in January-February and August-September. Discounts are indicated by the inscription “saldos” on the windows. Prices in Faro are slightly higher than in other regions of Portugal, but significantly lower than in the rest of Europe. Check liuxers for customs and traditions of Portugal.

In small shops you can find interesting and high-quality handmade goods: leather goods, knitwear, textiles and lace. Good antiques are sold at Vila Adento in Piazza Afonso III in the old part of the city. An excellent souvenir will be the Portuguese Azulejo tiles. Tourists often buy these blue and white, hand-painted tiles with the number of a house or apartment, although you can also purchase a whole panel. Another classic gift from Faro is cork products: handbags, wallets, notebooks and even magnets.

Large shopping centers open at 10:00 and work until midnight, small shops – from 9:00 to 19:00, many of them close for lunch from 13:00 to 15:00. Markets (7:00-12:00) sell everything from food to clothing and ceramics (including the famous Portuguese cockerels). The most interesting market in Faro takes place in the Estoi area every second Sunday of the month.

Cafes and Restaurants in Faro

By the standards of Portugal, Faro is a big city – any tourist will find a cafe or restaurant to their liking here. And if in the countryside around the capital of the Algarve, most restaurants are open until 21:00, then you can dine here later. But lunch, on the contrary, is early, at about 12:30, after 14:00, many cafes close the kitchen. Breakfast is served until 10:00.

You can taste local cuisine at the typicu restaurants. They serve Algarve specialties cooked on a cataplana, a round-bottomed pan with a very tight lid (all flavors are retained!). In institutions called “marisqueiras” they offer fish and seafood, Faro is famous for them all over the world. This is not only the branded cod “bacalau”, which is cooked in hundreds of ways, but also the fish soup-roast “caldeirada”, as well as sardines: the number of recipes is simply innumerable. In teahouses you can not only drink tea, but also have a cheap snack. It is worth trying the branded Portuguese green wine “Vinho Verde” – young, light and refreshing.

In any eatery, snacks are taken out almost immediately. It can be bread and butter, olives, various sauces, which will be included in the bill only if they were eaten (set cost – 2-6 EUR). If the guest did not touch, you will not have to pay. Therefore, do not refuse and try to hand the dish back to the waiter, he will take it himself when he brings the order. Pay attention to the PV or preco V marks on the menu near seafood or fish dishes. This means that the price depends on the current value of the product on the market.

Prices depend on the class of the institution. A full dinner in a restaurant will cost about 40 EUR (with a glass of wine). In cozy “rural” (in style) establishments you can eat for about 25 EUR. And to have a bite to eat in “pashteleries” (pastry shops) – for 7-10 EUR. There is no unusual fast food in Faro: fans of “fast food” can visit classic burger chains or buy kebabs. Prices are low: about 2 EUR per serving. A good way to save money is a tourist set lunch “ementa tourist”, which costs from 15 to 25 EUR, you can eat them to satiety. Also in restaurants and cafes, the dish of the day is often found – “platu do dia”. It is customary to leave a tip in the amount of 5-10% of the bill.

Portions are usually very large, those who are not sure that they can handle it can order “uma meya doze”, that is, half a serving, or take one dish for two.

Most restaurants in Faro are located in the central, tourist part of the city on the square near the Cathedral and the surrounding streets. There are good fish restaurants in the port (Doca de Faro). But it’s more expensive here. Pay attention to where the locals dine, it is tastier and cheaper there.

Weather

The mild, temperate continental climate makes Faro a pleasant place to visit from February to October. It is almost always sunny here, already in the last month of winter trees begin to bloom, and the beach season starts in May (though at first without swimming).

It is better to go to the resort in the first weeks of autumn, as it can be too hot at the end of summer, and in June, when everything seems to be conducive to sunbathing, the water in the Atlantic is still cold – only the most courageous swim! Since November, it often rains, but there is no snow and severe frosts even in winter.

Eating in Faro, Portugal

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Shopping and Eating in Cartagena, Colombia https://www.ezinereligion.com/shopping-and-eating-in-cartagena-colombia.html Fri, 18 Nov 2022 15:33:45 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1595 Read More »]]> Beaches

The main beach of “mainland” Cartagena is Bocagrande. There is a wide sandy coast, a fairly smooth descent into the water and everything you need for a comfortable beach holiday: umbrellas, sun loungers and mattresses (on hotel beaches). During the season, however, the “overcrowding” of the resort makes itself felt, and the sea becomes not very clean.

For pristine nature and solitude, you should go to the Rosario Islands – it is here, on the island of Baru, that the best beach of Cartagena, Playa Blanca, with fine white sand and a lot of secluded corners, is located, where nothing will stop you from enjoying the picturesque nature. You can come here as part of a one-day excursion from Cartagena (about 70 USD) or on your own – by ferry or bus following the bridge.

According to wholevehicles, Punta Arena Beach on the island of Tierrabomba is famous for its excellent sand quality, clear sea and graceful palm trees leaning over the water. There are many fish restaurants and a great view of the harbor of Cartagena.

Bokachika Beach on the same island is interesting not only for the good sea, but also for the restored fort. There are also restaurants and cafes where you can eat during the day.

La Boquilla Beach is known for its secluded mangrove lagoons; there are almost no people here – only fishermen going out to sea for their catch. For the same reason, in La Boquilla you can try dishes from freshly caught fish.

Shopping and shopping in Cartagena

The beauty and pride of Cartagena – jewelry with emeralds can be bought in specialized stores in the Old Town, where each product will be provided with a certificate of authenticity. Sellers of “real emeralds” from the hands, of course, should be strongly avoided.

For authentic souvenirs, you should go to the central square of Santo Domingo, where a colorful market unfolds every day in the afternoon. In the very noisy Basurto market, you can buy fresh fruits and “products of the earth”, as well as try real Cartagena cuisine (you need to carefully monitor your wallet). Exclusive items are sold in the Upalema boutique in the Old Town.

5 things to do in Cartagena

  1. Settle in a monastery-hotel outside the fortress walls.
  2. Visit Dante’s hell – a market with the promising name of Basurto.
  3. Be glad that it’s the 21st century, at the Palace of the Inquisition.
  4. Relax on the white sandy beach of Playa Blanca.
  5. See how poor Indian tribes lived in pre-Hispanic Colombia at the Gold Museum.

Cuisine and restaurants

The gastronomic traditions of Cartagena are a colorful mixture of European and Latin American dishes that have experienced African and Arab influences. The best restaurants are located in the Old Town, near Santo Domingo Square, and on the promenade of the Bocagrande resort; eateries are located everywhere, literally at every step. Local food eateries called “coriente” offer a menu of the day for about 3 USD, consisting of a piece of meat, fish or chicken with coconut rice, fried potatoes and salad. For 1 USD you can quench your thirst with a glass of freshly squeezed juice.

Entertainment and attractions of Cartagena

The main attraction of Cartagena is the colorful Old Town outside the walls, which can be accessed through the main entrance located in the Clock Tower. There are a lot of narrow colonial streets with “postcard” mansions, majestic squares and a large number of historical sights. Particular attention should be paid to the 500-year-old forts built of shell rock slabs and sections of massive fortress walls from the time of Spanish rule. Among the most remarkable examples of medieval architecture is the castle of San Felipe (17th century), built to protect against pirates, and the oldest square is the cozy Plaza de la Aduana, where you can see the Town Hall and the monument to Columbus.

Los Coches Square sells the most delicious sweets of Cartagena.

Monuments of religious architecture – the majestic Cathedral, the churches of Santo Domingo and San Pedro, as well as a large number of medieval churches and temples in the heart of the Old City.

Another gem of the Old Town, albeit with a dark history, is the 17th century Inquisition Palace with exceptionally beautiful baroque gates crowned with the Spanish coat of arms and long balconies on the facade.

Enjoy a panoramic view of Cartagena and its harbor from the 150-meter La Popa Hill, which also houses the 17th Monastery in Santa Cruz and a magnificent image of the Holy Virgin of Candelaria.

You should definitely visit the Gold Museum, which displays a rich collection of gold jewelry and household items from pre-Hispanic times belonging to local Indian tribes. At the Maritime Museum, you can learn more about the history of navigation in Colombia and the entire Caribbean, and at the Museum of Modern Art, see the work of the famous Colombian artist Alejandro Obregon.

Eating in Cartagena, Colombia

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Attractions in Brussels, Belgium https://www.ezinereligion.com/attractions-in-brussels-belgium.html Fri, 11 Nov 2022 06:40:05 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1593 Read More »]]> According to aparentingblog, Brussels is the capital of Belgium and is also often seen as the capital of Europe. Brussels owes this role to the fact that it is the administrative center of the European Union. Within Brussels you will find a large number of European institutions such as the European Commission and the European Parliament. Because, in addition to all European organizations, Brussels is also the headquarters for NATO, the city is the second largest political center in the world after Washington DC. You notice this role in the atmosphere in the city, which is seen as much more businesslike than other Belgian cities such as Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp. Yet Brussels also has more than enough to offer ordinary tourists to make it their own..

Top 10 Things to Do in Brussels

#1. Large market

Since the eleventh century, the Grote Markt has beenthe most central spot in Brussels. During the Nine Years’ War between France and the Great Alliance in 1695, many buildings were lost to bombing. Only the Broodhuis and some walls and the tower of the town hall have survived. Shortly afterwards, the Grote Markt was built again and at a rapid pace, which is reflected in the fact that all the buildings have a bit of the same Flemish-Italian appearance. It used to be not only a place for parties and entertainment. It was on this square where executions were carried out in the form of, for example, the pyre. Now you can find everything in the field of shopping, terraces, restaurants, hotels, nightlife and culture on this Grote Markt.

Every two years, the Grand-Place in Brussels is the setting of a flower carpet created mainly with begonias. In the 1950s, the landscape architect E. Stautemans began to delve into making carpets that mainly consist of Begonias. The choice of Begonias was made because Belgium is the world’s largest producer of this flower. The flower also has fine properties such as robustness, resistance to bad weather and sun and has a long life. This carpet in Brussels often measures 77 x 24 metres. This success has been further developed and is now no longer only created in Brussels, but also in cities such as Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp, Kortrijk, Hasselt. And even across the Belgian border in major cities in Germany, England, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and Spain. But according to E. Stautermans himself, nowhere is it more beautiful and distinctive than in Brussels.

#2. The Atomium

You like the Atomiumconsider it an icon of Brussels. This special building is located in the Heysel Park in Brussels and was designed by André Waterkeyn. It was designed for the 1958 World’s Fair in Brussels and is a symbol of the metal iron, which was developing strongly in the 1950s. Due to its popularity, it was decided to leave the building. The height of the building is 102,705 meters, it consists of nine spheres, each with a diameter of 18 meters. These spheres are each exactly 29 meters apart and thus represent the crystal structure of iron. With the elevator it is possible to go to the top sphere and visit the restaurant. The other spheres can be reached by stairs or escalator.

#3. Impressive churches

Brussels has several interesting church buildings. Think of the Basilica of the Koekelberg, which is one of the largest churches in the world. The location of the National Basilica of the Sacred Heart, as the Basilica of Koekelberg is actually called, is a bit more difficult for tourists exploring Brussels on foot. If you do take the trouble to visit this imposing building, make sure to take the elevator up. You will then be treated to an impressive panoramic view of the city of Brussels from a height of fifty meters

Due to its more favorable location, the Cathedral of St. Michel and St. Gudula is more visited by tourists. This cathedral was founded in the early 13th century. There is even said to be archaeological evidence that it dates back to before the 10th century. Concerts by the cathedral now take place regularly. Various exhibitions are also organized. The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula has an organ in the cathedral that has no fewer than 4300 pipes, which are divided over 63 registers, 4 manuals and 1 pedal. Many royal funerals and weddings have already taken place. The last royal wedding to take place there was that of Prince Laurent and Princess Claire in 2003.

#4. The Brussels Comic Strip Route and the Comic Strip Museum

If you take a walk through Brussels, you will notice that a number of cartoon characters adorn the city as frescoes. Since 1993, a number of cartoon characters can be discovered as murals scattered throughout the city. Various Belgian cartoonists from, among others, Suske en Wiske, Tintin, Asterix en Obelix and Guust Flater can be seen on various walls of buildings. The route of the Brussels comic strip walk goes along about 31 walls throughout the city.

In addition to the comic strip walk, you can also visit the Comic Strip Museum. This museum is entirely devoted to the phenomenon of comic strips and specifically the role played by Belgian cartoonists. The comics museum is of course an ideal place to visit if you are visiting Brussels with children. Make no mistake, it is not a museum aimed specifically at children. The Comic Strip Museum is interesting for all ages.

#5. Manneken Pis

The capital of Belgium is of course known for its world famous ‘Manneken Pis’. This statue of a peeing boy is located in the center of Brussels on the corner of the Stoofstraat and the Eikstraat. The figurine has already been damaged or even removed before in its history, only to be found again, whether or not in its entirety. In 1817 the statue was removed and was found under some rubble. All the pieces were put together and a mold was made from it. This created the image as we know it today. The famous statuette already has an equally famous wardrobe. It was and is decorated for special occasions. The entire wardrobe of about 700 pieces can be seen in the Stedelijk Museum Het Broodhuis on the Grote Markt.

#6. View over the city

In Brussels there are two places where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the city for free. The Mont des Arts is quite centrally located and in our opinion shows one of the most beautiful pictures of Brussels: a piece of park, some beautiful old facades and in the distance (if the weather is good) the Basilica of the Koekelberg.

A place that offers a more panoramic view is the Poelaertplein. Because this square is located on top of a hill and has no buildings on the western side, you have a great view of Brussels from here. With the Lift of the Marolles located here you can easily go down. You will then end up in the Marolles district. This is seen as the most authentic district of Brussels. It is well worth a walk.

#7. Cinquantenaire Park

The Cinquantenaire Park is a large city park that is located about one and a half kilometers from the historic center. That is fine on foot (twenty minutes walk), but you can also go there by metro. Then get off at metro station Merode. The Cinquantenaire Park can rightly be called an impressive and worth seeing park. There are several buildings and pavilions. It houses, among other things, the Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage, which was founded in 1948 to study and preserve the artistic and cultural heritage of Belgium, the Great Mosque of Brussels, which is the seat of the Islamic Cultural Center of Belgium and the Triumphal Arch that was built in 1905. was completed with eight statues depicting the other provinces at the foot.

Autoworld is an absolute must-visit if you are a car enthusiast. The car collection on display here is quite wide. Enjoy well-known classics such as the Citroën CX, the Renault 4 or the Ugly Duckling. Be entranced by rare collector’s items that show their beauty to the public in excellent condition.

#8. The Royal Palace of Brussels and the Museum of Emperor Charles

The Royal Palace is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Brussels. In this beautiful palace, the Belgian king fulfills his function and receives guests. The king does not live here, but in Laeken in Belvédère Castle. The palace dates from about 1826, but was adapted to the wishes of King Leopold I after the Belgian Revolution in 1865. After his death, King Leopold II had other plans. The surface of the palace had meanwhile doubled, but not everything was finished yet. King Albert then made his adjustments, after which the last change for Queen Fabiola was in the hall of mirrors. It is now used for large receptions. The interior still contains pieces from the time of Leopold I and partly from Napoleon and William I.

The Museum of Emperor Charles V is part of the palace. This beautiful museum on the Coudenberg contains many graves and excavations, as well as many art objects, embroideries, printed books, sculptures, glasses and paintings by Rubens, Titian and Bruegel, among others. A number of parts of this former palace can be visited underground. The cellars of the residential area, for example, are located under Koningsstraat.

#9. Musee Magritte Museum

The Belgian artist René Magritte is a household name among lovers of surrealist art. His style is characterized by showing a metamorphosis, in which one object changes into another. Sometimes he painted things that are impossible in other respects. A number of his paintings would nowadays be called a ‘mindfuck’. For example, the series of houses at night, with a clear sky above in daylight. A world famous work by Magritte is “La trahison des images”. It is mainly the caption under the image of a pipe that has brought global fame: “Ceci n’est pas une pipe” (this is not a pipe).

In the Musée Magritte Museum you will get to know the work of this special artist. The museum is part of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. As far as we are concerned, the Magritte Museum is an absolute highlight among the many museums in Brussels.

#10. The Grand Sablon antique market

This Grand Sablon district is known for its abundance of antique shops, couturiers, restaurants and chocolatiers
. Every week there is a fantastic antique market here between all kinds of antique shops and shops with the most delicious pastries. Nearby are the Lieve Vrouwekerk and the Sablon church with its impressive picturesque garden with statues. The antiques market is held all year round on Saturdays 9am – 6pm and Sundays 9am – 2pm.

Brussels, Belgium

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Landmarks of La Palma, Spain https://www.ezinereligion.com/landmarks-of-la-palma-spain.html Fri, 04 Nov 2022 05:15:47 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1591 Read More »]]> According to animalerts, La Palma is one of the Canary Islands. Unlike most other islands, La Palma is not an island full of mass tourism, but a place where people come for peace and nature. La Palma is, according to many, the most authentic Canarian destination of the archipelago. Just like big brothers Gran Canaria and Tenerife, La Palma also has a wet green side to the north, while the south is clearly sunnier and drier.

Top 10 sights of La Palma

#1. Caldera de Taburiente
In the beautiful Caldera de Taburiente area lies the equally beautiful natural park ‘Parque Nacional de la Caldera de Taburiente. The area is perfect for walks with an amazing view of the Roque de los Muchachos, which is the highest point on the island. The caldera (bowl-shaped crater) dominates the northern side of the island with a diameter of about 10 kilometers. There are even walks in the erosion crater. An international observatory is located nearby. This is the Roque de los Muchachos observatory.

#2. La Zarza
If you would like to take a fairytale walk, you should definitely visit the laurel forests on the island of La Palma. These forests are located in the north-east of the island at an altitude of approximately between 600 and 1200 metres. On the way you will probably pass the Nogales gorge. There are also opportunities to take walks to the Marcos and Cordero hot springs. In the cultural park de la Zarza you can admire petroglyphs of the original inhabitants ‘the Benahorites’. In the information center more is told about their lives and working methods.

#3. Mirador del Time
The most beautiful and breathtaking view of the island of La Palma can be found at the viewpoint Mirador del Time. You will find this along the route from Los Llanos to Puntagorda. The panoramic view is especially beautiful in the dark. You look over Los Llanos, El Paso, the valley of Aridane, the Cumbres, Pico Bejenado and of course the beautiful Atlantic Ocean.

#4. Fuencaliente de la Palma
In the south of the Canary Island of La Palma you will find the healing hot springs Fuencaliente de la Palma. This southern part of the island is also known for the volcanoes San Antonio and Teneguia. There are also many banana and wine plantations to be found. The very picturesque village of Los Canarios is definitely worth a visit. Here the wooden balconies are again the hallmark of the island. At the extreme southern point is a lighthouse from 1967 near the salt pans. Today it is a museum with exhibits about marine life. With a bit of clear weather there is a view of the islands of El Hierro and La Gomera.

#5. Los Llanos de Aridane
The pleasant town of Los Llanos de Aridane has a nice historic town center with atmospheric terraces. There are still many banana plantations around the place. The large square near the church is an important meeting place in the evening. Locals like to hang out there and there are a few terraces. The beaches are about fifteen minutes away and there are plenty of opportunities for wonderful walks. If you want to know more about the culture and history, you should definitely visit the archaeological museum Benahoarita in Los Llanos

#6. San Andrés
The former port of San Andrés is an attraction in the northwest of the island. The village has the recognizable Canarian cobbled alleys and typical mansions. The terraces around the Plaza de San Andrés are well visited. Very special are the pools formed by rocks on the coast and filled with sea water.

#7. Garafia
One of the most beautiful hiking areas of La Palma can be found in the north near Garafia. It is quite quiet there, but very beautiful. The area is full of almond trees, dragon trees combined with gorges, deep ravines and steep coasts. In the town of Santo Domingo you can find an ethnographic museum with information about traditions in and around the farms and other things worth knowing about the countryside. In the silk museum in El Paso you can see what is possible with creations of this beautiful fabric.

#8. Santa Cruz de la Palma
The city of Santa Cruz de la Palma, which is called “La Palma” by the inhabitants, is the capital of the island. Characteristic of the city are the colorful facades with wooden balconies that you see a lot in the street scene. The cozy and cozy center has narrow streets that are occasionally interrupted by beautiful squares. The terraces and cafes are well spread over the center and the boulevard. It is less present here than on the neighboring islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria. There are many old buildings and mansions where you are regularly surprised by the special accents in such a building. Think of beautiful ceiling paintings or beautiful old stairwells. The port of Santa Cruz de la Palma is regularly visited by cruise ships. On the beautiful square ‘Plaza de la Alameda’ lies a replica of Columbus’ ship, which is now a maritime museum. Close to Santa Cruz de la Palma is the seaside resort of Los Cancajos.

#9. Puerto Naos
On the west coast of La Palma lies the seaside resort of Puerto Naos. It is a fairly quiet seaside resort with some terraces and restaurants here and there, but no mass tourism. The nightlife is mainly bars. A promenade with some palm trees and other vegetation runs along the coast. There are some less attractive buildings with mainly apartments and large hotels.

#10. Los Cancajos
The cozy seaside resort of Los Cancajos is located on a volcanic beach. The beach is several hundred meters long and is occasionally interrupted by rocky outcrops. There is a pleasant pedestrian promenade with some benches here and there to rest. Because Los Cancajos is a fairly new village with mainly hotels, there is little culture to be found.

La Palma, Spain

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US 90 in Louisiana https://www.ezinereligion.com/us-90-in-louisiana.html Sun, 30 Oct 2022 04:58:01 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1588 Read More »]]>  

US 90
Get started toomey
End Pearlington
Length 306 mi
Length 492 km
Route
Texas

Vinton

Sulfur

Lake Charles

Iowa

Jennings

Crowley

Rayne

Lafayette

New Iberia

freeway

Baldwin

Franklin

frontage road

Centerville

calumet

Patterson

Berwick

Morgan City

East Morgan City

Amelia

LA-662

LA-662

Gibson

Donner

writer

everyone

Gray

Raceland

Matthews

All the best

paradise

Boutte

evening ale

Westwego

West Bank Expressway

Ames Boulevard

Marrero

Destrehan Avenue

Peters Road

Manhattan Boulevard

Belle Chasse Highway

Stumpf Boulevard

Terry Parkway

Burmaster Street

Mississippi River

Religious Street

Downtown New Orleans

New Orleans

Arabia

Lake Pontchartrain

slidell

Mississippi

According to Iamaccepted, US 90 is a US Highway in the US state of Louisiana. The road forms an east-west route through the south of the state, from the Texas border through Lake Charles, Lafayette, Houma, and New Orleans to the Mississippi border. US 90 is 492 kilometers long in Louisiana.

Travel directions

The US 90 freeway near Houma.

US 90 in Texas comes from Beaumont and is initially double numbered with Interstate 10. From Toomey to Lafayette, US 90 runs directly parallel to I-10, mostly south of it. This region is low-lying and mainly consists of meadows with here and there forest areas. US 90 rejoins I-10 through Lake Charles and crosses the Calcasieu River here. East of Lake Charles, US 90 again parallels I-10 and leads through a series of small towns to the town of Lafayette. In Lafayette, US 90 exits south. The route through the city is one of Lafayette’s main roads and has 2×3 lanes, partly with a city block in the median strip.

From Lafayette, the road is initially a level 2×2 divided highway, but from near New Iberia it becomes a full-fledged highway. The highway leads through flat terrain through predominantly agricultural land in a southeasterly direction, parallel to the Bayou Teche. The agricultural land around US 90 narrows and is wedged between the swampy coastal region of the Gulf of Mexico and the swamps of the Atchafalaya Swamp. Between Centerville and Morgan City, the highway is interrupted by a section of divided highway with intersections. From Morgan City, US 90 becomes a freeway again and crosses the Atchafalaya River.

From Morgan City it follows a route through the swamps between the Atchafalaya River and the Mississippi River. Part of the great Louisiana delta, US 90 runs over embankments or bridges here, including a 5.5-kilometer girder bridge at Amelia and a 9-kilometer girder bridge west of Gray. The highway then passes just north of the city of Houma and from Raceland is no longer a highway, but again a 2×2 divided highway. At Des Allemands one crosses the bayou of the same name, after which Interstate 310 ends at US 90 at Boutte. From here one enters the urban area of ​​the New Orleans region.

US 90 then crosses the south bank of the Mississippi River to Avondale, where the road branches north and crosses the Mississippi River at Metairie via the Huey P. Long Bridge. The road then continues as a 2×3 lane urban arterial through the western boroughs of the city of New Orleans. At the Louisiana Superdome, US 90 connects to a major interchange with Interstate 10 and US 90 Business.

Then US 90 forms North Broad Street through the north of the city. This is an urban arterial with 2×2 lanes. US 90 then crosses Interstate 610 and forms the Chef Menteur Highway in the eastern suburbs of New Orleans, a 2×2 lane urban arterial. East of New Orleans, US 90 runs through the coastal area that separates Lake Pontchartrain from the Gulf of Mexico. This area is swampy and almost uninhabited except for a series of boathouses along the water. US 90 is a single carriageway here and crosses the mouth of Lake Pontchartrain to the north bank via the Chef Menteur Bridge. After this, US 90 bypasses the town of Slidell and continues in the coastal swampy area to the Mississippi border formed by the Pearl River. US 90 in Mississippithen continues to Bay St. Louis and Gulfport.

US 90 Business

The US 90 Business in New Orleans.

There are multiple US 90 business routes in Louisiana, almost every major town has one. The most important is the Business Route of US 90 in New Orleans. This is a 23 kilometer route from Avondale to New Orleans. In Avondale, US 90 heads north over the Mississippi River via the Huey P. Long Bridge, while US 90 Business heads east through the southern suburbs of New Orleans. Initially this is an urban arterial with 2×3 lanes and a very wide median strip, in fact the frontage roadswithout a highway. From Marrero this highway does exist and is called the West Bank Expressway. This highway has 2×3 lanes and a high fixed bridge crosses the Intracoastal Waterway, while the frontage roads pass under the canal via the Harvey Tunnel. The highway then unlocks Gretna and then makes a long bend to cross the Mississippi River via the Crescent City Connection, a set of two large cantilever bridges. The highway leads on an overpass along downtown New Orleans and connects to Interstate 10 here.

History

US 90 at Lafayette.

According to ACRONYMMONSTER, US 90 was created in 1926, after which the Louisiana route was slightly modified. The biggest changes were the construction of highway sections in the Mississippi Delta, especially in the 1990s, when US 90 was largely grade separated. The Crescent City Connection in New Orleans opened in April 1958 over one bridge, which was doubled in September 1988. This is a toll connection, but only eastbound. On June 9, 1930, the Fort Pike Bridge opened over Lake Pontchartrain. This bridge was replaced by a new bridge on January 15, 2008. The Pontchartrain Expressway was built along downtown New Orleans between 1957 and 1962. The western part of this is now Interstate 10.

Until the early 1970s, Lafayette was the logical terminus for the east-west route, where US 90 veers south. Before Interstate 10 between Lafayette and Baton Rouge was built, there were no east-west connections over this corridor. Traffic had two options at the time, the US 90 that runs closer to the coast via Houma, or the then better developed route via the US 190 and US 61 via Baton Rouge, the so-called ‘Airline Highway’ that already covered 200 kilometers in the early 1950s. 2×2 lanes counted.

Texas – Lafayette

The route between the Texas borderand Lafayette has undergone relatively little modification or upgrade, despite Interstate 10 being built west of Lafayette only after 1960. The road was originally numbered LA-2, which was gradually modernized into a modern two-lane road between the 1920s and 1950s. However, few stretches have been widened to four lanes, primarily in the Lake Charles and Lafayette metropolitan area. The bridge over the Calcasieu River in Lake Charles opened to traffic in 1916, it was demolished after the Interstate 10 bridge was completed in 1952, and US 90 was routed over it. The westernmost 2.5 miles from the Texas border to Vinton has been eliminated because Interstate 10 has been built directly over it. As a result, there is only one bridge over the Sabine River at Orange, Texas.

Lafayette – New Orleans

Between Lafayette and New Orleans, US 90 has been constructed throughout with 2×2 lanes, large parts of which are freeway and some sections are 2×2 divided highway with at-grade intersections.

The first bridge over the Atchafayala River in Morgan City opened to traffic in 1933, the Long-Allen Bridge. US 90 went on for more than 40 years, until in 1975 the EJ “Lionel” Grizzaffi Bridge opened, a larger cantilever bridge close to the old Long-Allen Bridge, which has been used for local traffic ever since.

The first stretch between Lafayette and New Orleans to be widened to four lanes was a few miles east of Morgan City in the 1950s. In the 1960s and early 1970s, work was mainly done from Lafayette to Morgan City, by 1975 an entirely new route from Lafayette to Jeanerette was already in use, partly as a freeway. Also, the 2×2 section from New Orleans has been extended westward beyond Des Allemands. The section between Jeanerette and Morgan City was probably constructed in the second half of the 1970s or early 1980s as a new highway, which bypasses Franklin, among other things.

A major route adjustment has been carried out around the city of Houma. US 90 originally ran from Gibson via Houma to Raceland, but has been bypassed here by a freeway that cuts off the detour via Houma. Since then, US 90 has stopped passing through the town of Houma. This was probably built around 1990. There was a lack of 4 kilometers of freeway between Amelia and Gibson for a long time, this was only opened around 1998/1999. The Eastern Morgan City bypass was also only constructed in the 1990s.

New Orleans

The interchange between I-10 and US 90 in New Orleans.

Lake Pontchartrain Crossing

The first fixed road link from New Orleans to the east was the Maestri Bridge, which opened in 1928. US 90 passed through this for a short time, however it is now part of US 11.

The Chef Menteur Highway has been constructed east of New Orleans, which bridges over Chef Menteur Pass, a narrow strait between Lake Pontchartrain and the Gulf of Mexico. The Chef Menteur Highway opened to traffic over the Chef Menteur Bridge in 1929, the second section across the strait proper opened to traffic on June 9, 1930, with the opening of the Fort Pike Bridge. It was replaced by a new bridge between 2004 and 2008, construction was delayed by the impact of Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

West Bank Expressway

The first parts of US 90 to be widened into a 2×2 divided highway were the approach roads from the larger towns. In the 1950s, US 90 between Luling and Westwego was widened to 2×2 lanes just outside New Orleans. At the time, US 90 ran via the Huey P. Long Bridge to New Orleans. When the Crescent City Connection opened in 1958, the Westbank Expressway was constructed as a freeway serving as the Business Routeof US 90 was numbered. The Westbank Expressway in the suburbs of New Orleans was built between 1954 and 1960, including the Harvey Tunnel. Large viaducts over the Harvey Canal opened here in 1984, so that both a tunnel and a fixed bridge have been available since then. There have been plans to use the US 90 Bus. to be renumbered as Interstate 910, but this was never implemented. The main carriageways of the Westbank Expressway along Westwego were never built, despite the US 90 Bus central reservation. wide enough for it.

Future

US 90 between Lafayette and New Orleans may become part of Interstate 49 in the future.

Traffic intensities

Every day, 1,100 vehicles run parallel to I-10 west of Lake Charles. East of Lake Charles 4,000 to 6,000 vehicles drove because there are quite a few villages on the route. The four-lane New Iberia highway has 22,000 to 40,000 vehicles and 17,000 vehicles on the highway section from New Iberia to Morgan City. 28,000 vehicles drove through Morgan City. Some 18,000 vehicles and 34,000 vehicles west of I-310 drove past Houma. Some 24,000 vehicles ran between I-310 and the suburbs of New Orleans.

The West Bank Expressway traveled 68,000 to 73,000 vehicles and 156,000 vehicles on the Crescent City Connection over the Mississippi River. The Pontchartrain Expressway along downtown New Orleans has 123,000 vehicles. The route parallel to I-10 through New Orleans has about 25,000 to 30,000 vehicles and 19,000 vehicles east of I-510. East of US 11 there are still 3,500 vehicles left. 2,000 vehicles daily crossed the bridge over Lake Pontchartrain and 2,500 on the Mississippi border.

US 90 in Louisiana

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US 53 and 59 in Minnesota https://www.ezinereligion.com/us-53-and-59-in-minnesota.html Fri, 28 Oct 2022 18:21:39 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1585 Read More »]]> US 53 in Minnesota
US 53
Begin Duluth
End International Falls
Length 165 mi
Length 265 km
Route
Wisconsin

Duluth

Virginia

International Falls

According to Existingcountries, US 53 is a US Highway in the US state of Minnesota. The road forms a north-south route in the northeast of the state, from the Wisconsin border through Duluth to the Canadian border at International Falls. US 53 is 165 miles long in Minnesota.

Travel directions

De US 53 in Duluth.

US 53 is a north-south route through the hills and forests of northern Minnesota. The portion from the Wisconsin border to Interstate 35 in Duluth is also numbered Interstate 535. From Minnesota to north of Virginia, US 53 is a 2×2 lane divided highway. This section handles traffic to the winter sports resort of Ely. Further north, the route is single-lane and leads through densely wooded area with many lakes to the northern town of International Falls, where US 71 also ends. US 53 ends at the Canadian border with the province of Ontario, from where Highway 71 in Ontario continues to Kenora.

History

US 53 was created in 1926. The northern terminus was initially Superior, Wisconsin, just over the border at Duluth. In 1934, the route was extended north to the Canadian border at International Falls. The route was completely paved in 1940. During the 1960s, US 53 between Duluth and Virginia was upgraded to a divided highway, which was largely completed by 1970. The Virginia Bypass opened in the 1970s. Only the part in Duluth was a narrow two-lane road, this part was only widened to 2×2 lanes in 2004.

Between 2009 and late 2013, US 53 was widened further north from Virginia to Cook to become a 2×2 lane divided highway. This project is part of the Falls-to-Falls corridor, a trade corridor from the Mississippi River in Wisconsin to the border with Canada. Between 2015 and 2017, US 53 near Virginia moved over an old open mine, including a large flyover. This project cost $156 million. The opening followed on September 15, 2017.

Traffic intensities

Up to 25,000 vehicles drive daily in the city of Duluth, dropping to 19,000 vehicles just outside the city and 8,000 to 12,000 vehicles as far as Independence. After that, 8,000 to 11,000 vehicles drive as far as Virginia, peaking at 23,000 vehicles at Virginia. North of Virginia, the intensities are much lower, 5,000 more vehicles close to town, but only 2,000 vehicles in the north of the state as far as International Falls.

US 59 in Minnesota

US 59
Get started Bigelow
End Lancaster
Length 426 mi
Length 685 km
Route
Iowa

Worthington

Fulda

slayton

Garvin

Marshall

Montevideo

appleton

Hollowa

Morris

Fergus Falls

Detroit Lakes

Mahnomen

Erskine

Thief River Falls

Karlstad

According to Anycountyprivateschools, US 59 is a US Highway in the US state of Minnesota. The road forms a long north-south route through the west of the state, from the border with Iowa through Fergus Falls and Detroit Lakes to the border with Canada. US 59 is 685 kilometers long in Minnesota.

Travel directions

US 59 in Iowa comes from the countryside and continues its route into Minnesota. Already 15 kilometers after the border one passes through the first regional town, the town of Worthington, which is double numbered with State Route 60, which is a 2×2 divided highway for traffic from Sioux City to Mankato. On the north side of Worthington there is a connection to Interstate 90.

After Worthington, a 100 kilometer stretch follows the flat countryside of southwestern Minnesota to the town of Marshall. There are only a few small villages on the route, the landscape consists of endless meadows of large-scale farms. US 59 cuts through Marshall, then forms a 60-kilometer stretch north to Montevideo. Here one crosses the Minnesota River and US 212.

Then US 59 travels more than 100 miles through sparsely populated countryside to Fergus Falls. This is where the central part of Minnesota is exchanged for the northern part of the state. The route has a secondary character, is single-lane and leads through only a small number of towns. Around Fergus Falls, US 59 runs for nearly 12 miles on Interstate 94.

After Fergus Falls, a 70-kilometer stretch to Detroit Lakes follows. The character of the landscape changes on this part of the route, the endless flat meadows give way to more forest and a lake area. US 59 remains single-lane until Detroit Lakes. In that place you cross the US 10.

Then follows a 150-kilometer route to Thief River Falls in northwestern Minnesota. The forests here make way for endless meadows. There are almost no places on the route, only vast farms. One crosses the US 2 halfway through. Thief River Falls is the last place of any significance on the US 59 route, followed by a 120-kilometer stretch through lonely rural areas to the border with Canada. After the border crossing, Highway 59 in Manitoba continues to Winnipeg.

History

The current US 59 was created in 1934. The northern terminus was initially Pembina, North Dakota, on the border with Minnesota. The northernmost part from Lancaster ran a bit east-west. In 1955, the terminus was changed to the Canadian border north of Lancaster, where it joined Highway 59 in Manitoba.

US 59 travels very long distances through sparsely populated areas, not only in Minnesota but also further south in Iowa and Missouri. Between St. Joseph and Winnipeg, the US 59 travels 1,250 miles through agricultural land with only 3 towns with just over 10,000 residents, all located on the Minnesota section.

Due to the lack of larger towns and thus long-distance traffic, US 59 has barely been upgraded. The Lancaster–Tolstoi Border Crossing was inaugurated in 1950. In theory, the route is the shortest between Minneapolis and Winnipeg, but most traffic uses the highway route through Fargo, North Dakota. An additional problem for through traffic is that the border crossing is only open between 08:00 and 20:00.

US 59 in Minnesota

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Kansas History https://www.ezinereligion.com/kansas-history.html Fri, 28 Oct 2022 03:57:22 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1579 Read More »]]> First Exploration under France and Spain (1541–1803)

The first European to visit Kansas was the Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado in 1541. Kansas was then inhabited by Native Americans. The Coronado left Compostela in 1540 and set out in present-day Kansas in search of the “golden city” of Quivira. By his own account, he also reached Quivira, but gold was nowhere to be found. French explorer René Robert Cavelier de La Salle claimed the area for France as Louisiana in 1682(without visiting the area west of the Mississippi). The French built forts along the Mississippi and Missouri, but had little interest in the area of ​​present-day Kansas. In 1724, 183 years after Coronado, the commander of France’s Fort Orleans (more east in present-day Missouri), Étienne de Bourgmont, visited the Kansas River. In 1726 Fort Orleans was again abandoned by the French and the only European influence disappeared. In 1763 France had to cede the area to Spain. France regained Louisiana at the secret Treaty of San Ildefonso in 1800, but sold most of present-day Kansas to the United States in 1803 as a result of the Louisiana Purchase.

Disorganized U.S. Territory (1803–1854) [ edit | edit source text ]

With the exception of eastern Kansas, the area had barely been discovered. In 1804 the area was visited by the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Two years later, Zebulon Pike also explored the area and called the area “the Great American Desert”. As a result, the US government would have no interest in the area for the next forty years and set it aside for possible resettlement of Indians. From June 4, 1812 to August 10, 1821, the American portion of what became Kansas was organized as the “Missouri Territory.” However, there was no question of any colonization activities during this period.

According to watchtutorials, from 1821 to 1854, the area again became an unorganized territory of the United States. During this period, white settlers were prohibited from settling in what would later become Kansas. After all, several Native American tribes were resettled in Kansas over the next few decades. These operations began with the relocation of the tribes then inhabiting eastern Kansas (mainly the Kansa and the Osage) to the “Indian Territory” in present-day Oklahoma. This freed up space for the resettlement of Native American tribes from the east.

The famous Sante Fe Trail did pass through Kansas “closed” for settlement. Along this route, traders moved southwest toward New Mexico (Santa Fe) and Mexico (Mexico City). The first permanent white settlement in Kansas came into being (only) in 1827: Fort Leavenworth. This military fortress was to protect merchants along the Sante Fe Trail. Since 1841, the easternmost portion of the Oregon Trail also ran west through northeast Kansas.

Southwestern Kansas was in Spanish hands until the end of the Mexican-American War in 1848. In 1848 this portion fell to the United States, but no formal area organization was yet established. By the 1850s there were already several white Americans who had settled illegally on Native American land and who were campaigning for the general admission of settlement throughout the area. In 1853, a military fort was established more to the west than any previous settlement: Fort Riley (Riley County).

Recognition as territory (1854) and state (1861)

The United States Congress passed the Kansas-Nebraska Act in 1854, granting Nebraska and Kansas territory status and opening the country to colonization. The Missouri Compromise of 1820 was also revoked. The (American) residents of both territories were allowed to decide for themselves whether slavery was allowed in the area. From the neighboring slave states of Arkansas and Missouri, residents were encouraged to move to Kansas, in order to have as many proponents of slavery in the territory as possible. Conversely, many abolitionists also moved to Kansas. The two groups regularly clashed between 1854 and 1861. That gave Kansas the nickname Bleeding Kansas op.

Topeka, the later capital, was founded in 1854. Topeka was formed at the intersection of a new military road from Fort Leavenworth to the new Fort Riley to the west with the Kansas River. Salina was founded in 1858, then the westernmost settlement along the Smoky Hill Trail heading west. Even more west, the military Fort Hays was established in 1865/1867 to protect the travelers along this route.

Kansas became a state of the United States on January 29, 1861. The name Kansas comes from the Sioux word kansa, which means “people of the south wind”. Kansas’s nickname is The Sunflower State (“State of the Sunflower “). Three months later, the American Civil War broke out. The violence largely passed through Kansas until Confederate freebooter William Quantrill attacked the town of Lawrence in August 1863.led to the death of nearly 200 people. The attack was condemned by his own party. After the Civil War, many black Americans left the South where they were still discriminated against and settled in Kansas.

After the American Civil War

Lincoln College (now Washburn University) was founded in Topeka in 1865. Construction began on the Kansas State Capitol in Topeka in 1866. Construction would take 37 years. Construction of the Kansas Pacific Railway began in 1867. Originally the only plan was to build the railroad up to Fort Riley, but in 1867 the railroad reached Salina. Founded in 1860, the residents of Denver also championed the construction of a railroad, and the goal was set to build the railroad all the way across the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. From 1869 the construction of another railway was started to connect Topeka with Santa Fe. This Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad would hasten the colonization of western Kansas.

By merging with neighboring towns, Kansas City became the state’s largest city in 1886, ahead of Topeka. In the late 1880s, Kansas was the first US state to constitutionally ban alcoholic beverages, under pressure from Methodists and other evangelical groups. This ban was not revoked until 1948.

Twentieth Century

From the 1890s, Kansas City experienced explosive growth as a “streetcar suburb” of core Kansas City on the Missouri side of the river. The ” suburb ” continued to grow strongly until about 1930.

In the early 20th century, in addition to Kansas City, Wichita also experienced very strong growth. Wichita became the second largest city in the state in the first decade, ahead of the capital Topeka and after Kansas City. Wichita was founded thirteen years after Topeka in 1867 as a trading post of merchant Jesse Chisholm. This established several trading posts on a route south (Texas) later known as the Chisholm Trail. During the Second World War, Wichita in particular experienced a population explosion due to employment in the military industry. For example, the Boeing B-29 bomber was made in Wichita. Between 1940 and 1960, Wichita’s population increased from 115,000 to 255,000. Thus, Wichita became by far the largest city in Kansas.

In the second half of the 20th century, cities such as Overland Park and Olathe, as well as Kansas City (Kansas) suburbs of Kansas City (Missouri), also experienced explosive growth. In 2000, Overland Park became the state’s second largest city.

Kansas History

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State Route 92 in Nebraska https://www.ezinereligion.com/state-route-92-in-nebraska.html Thu, 27 Oct 2022 15:35:26 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1583 Read More »]]>  

SR-92
Get started Lyman
End omaha
Length 489 mi
Length 787 km
Route
Wyoming

Lyman

Scottsbluff

Bridgeport

Broadwater

lisco

Oshkosh

lewellen

Lemoyne

Arthur

Tryon

Stapleton

Arnold

Merna

Broken Bow

Ansley

Loup City

Ashton

farwell

St. Paul

Osceola

Shelby

Rising City

wahoo

Mead

Yutan

omaha

Iowa

According to Watchtutorials, State Route 92 or Highway 92 is a state route in the U.S. state of Nebraska. The road forms a long east-west route across the state, from the Wyoming state border at Lyman through Scottsbluff to the Iowa border at Omaha. It is the only state highway that runs completely from the western border to the eastern border of Nebraska. Highway 92 is 787 kilometers long.

Travel directions

Nebraska Panhandle

Hwy 92 near Scottsbluff.

At the village of Lyman, WYO 92 enters the state of Nebraska from Wyoming. Highway 92 then forms a route south of the North Platte River, through a flat agricultural area on the High Plains. The road heads east and after 30 kilometers reaches the town of Scottsbluff. There is a southern bypass around Scottsbluff, but it is not formally part of Highway 92. The northern bypass is formed by US 26. The Beltline through the city is the through route.

Highway 92 then heads southeast through the North Platte Valley, more or less paralleling US 26. The road is two lanes and leads through flat agricultural areas. A major railroad line runs alongside Highway 92. Between Bayard and Bridgeport, Highway 92 is a stretch of US 26 double-numbered. Between Bridgeport and Broadwater, Highway 92 and US 26 again form two parallel routes, after which the road from Broadwater to Lewellen is again double-numbered with US 26 over a longer stretch of about 70 kilometers. This is a two-lane road north of the North Platte River. Near Lewellen, the two routes split again, with US 26 running southeast to Ogallala, while Highway 92 running along the north side of McConaughy Lake, a reservoir of the North Platte River.

Central Nebraska

Highway 92 in the Sandhills between Arthur and Tryon. There are barely 100 vehicles per day here.

On the eastern side of McConaughy Lake, Highway 92 turns north and continues north for 25 miles across the barren but undulating Sandhills to Arthur, with Highway 92 being double -numbered with Highway 61. From Arthur, Highway 92 turns east again and continues for over 100 kilometers through the virtually uninhabited Sandhills. The only village on the route is Tryon, which has a short double numbering with Highway 97. Finally one reaches the village of Stapleton, where the Sandhills merge into areas of circular irrigation. Via US 83, Highway 92 jumps a bit south, but soon continues its route east through the agricultural middle of Nebraska.

From Merna, Highway 92 is double-numbered with Highway 2, a fairly long stretch southeast to Ansley, 25 miles away. On the way you pass through Broken Bow, one of the larger villages in the wider region. At Ansley you cross the US 183. Highway 92 then heads due east again, passing over the endless prairies, interspersed with circular irrigation. Highway 92 runs through Loup City to the village of St. Paul, where there is a short double number with US 281. Highway 92 passes here about 15 miles north of the city of Grand Island.

Eastern Nebraska

Highway 92 takes long straights east through flat farmland and passes north of Central City, where it intersects US 30 nearby. Shortly afterwards, the Platte River is crossed again. Highway 92 then heads east through the flat farmland south of the Platte River, passing some distance north of Lincoln and south of Columbus. Highway 92 also has some double numbers here, including with US 81 and US 77, where the village of Wahoo has a bypass.

At Yutan one crosses the Platte River for the fifth and last time, after which one enters the conurbation of Omaha. From the edge of the urban area, Highway 92 with US 275 is double-numbered, and will remain in Nebraska for the remainder of the route. Highway 92 runs Center Road, Industrial Road, and L Street through western and southern Omaha, intersecting Interstate 80, then paralleling it through Omaha’s industrial south. The Missouri River then forms the border with the state of Iowa, crossing the river via the South Omaha Veterans Memorial Bridge, after which State Route 92 in Iowa continues to Muscatine.

History

The former Highway 92 through the Scottsbluff National Monument.

According to Citypopulationreview, Highway 92 was first assigned circa 1923 to a short east-west route west of Omaha. It was renumbered in 1925 as Highway 16, which ran from North Platte to Omaha. In the early 1930s, Highway 92 was assigned a diagonal route from Bancroft to Wakefield in northeastern Nebraska. However, in 1939 this was renumbered as Highway 16.

That year, Highway 92 was assigned to its current long east-west route through Nebraska, remarkably replacing a portion of Highway 16 west of Omaha, which had also been numbered Highway 92 for some time between 1923 and 1925. Highway 92 originally ran through Mitchell Pass southwest of Scottsbluff, through Scotts Bluff National Monument. Although this is a scenic route, the slopes were less suitable for truck traffic, so Highway 92 later passed through the town of Scottsbluff.

The eastern portion of the route between Clarks and Omaha was also numbered US 30 Alternate from 1939 to the late 1960s. This was a double number and an alternate route to US 30 further north. On January 18, 1936, the South Omaha Veterans Memorial Bridge over the Missouri River on the border with Iowa opened to traffic. This was a toll bridge until 1947. This bridge was replaced in 2010 by a new bridge with 2×2 lanes.

Due to the low traffic volumes on most parts of the route, Highway 92 has almost never been upgraded. In about 2003, the grade-separated connection with US 6 opened in western Omaha. In 2006, the easternmost bridge over the Platte River at Yutan was replaced. On August 25, 2015, the Wahoo bypass opened as a 2×2 divided highway. In fact, this is mainly part of US 77, but Highway 92 rides on it.

Hwy 92

Highway 92 in Nebraska is part of a series of highways numbered Highway 92 in neighboring states. This route starts in Torrington, Wyoming and runs to La Moille, Illinois through four states with a length of 1,426 kilometers. These are WYO 92, Highway 92 in Nebraska, State Route 92 in Iowa and State Route 92 in Illinois.

Traffic intensities

Highway 92 is generally a light road. Every day, 500 to 1,000 vehicles drive west of Scottsbluff and 2,500 vehicles east of Scottsbluff as far as US 26. Near Broadwater, only 300 vehicles and 300 to 500 vehicles drive along Lake McConaughey. The north-south part to Arthur has 450 vehicles per day. The quietest part is between Arthur and Tryon, with only 100 vehicles per day. The portions of Highway 92 that are not double-numbered with other highways through central Nebraska typically have about 500 vehicles per day, with occasional stretches of up to 1,000 vehicles per day. Further east in Nebraska, there are typically 2,000 to 3,000 vehicles as far as Wahoo and 5,000 to 7,500 vehicles between Wahoo and the Omaha metro area. The double numbering with US 275 through southern Omaha is much busier with 10,000 to 25,000 vehicles. The busiest point is at the junction with I-80 where up to 54,000 vehicles drive, by far the busiest point on Highway 92.

State Route 92 in Nebraska

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State Route 423 in New Mexico https://www.ezinereligion.com/state-route-423-in-new-mexico.html Wed, 26 Oct 2022 12:18:14 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1581 Read More »]]>  

SR-423
Get started Albuquerque
End Albuquerque
Length 17 mi
Length 27 km
Route
Golf Course Road

Richland Hills Drive

Eagle Ranch Road

Coors Boulevard

Rio Grande

2nd Street

Jefferson Street

→ Santa Fe / Albuquerque

San Pedro Drive

Louisiana Boulevard

Wyoming Boulevard

Barstow Street

Holbrook Street

Eubank Boulevard

Browning Street

Lewell Street

Tramway Boulevard

According to act-test-centers, State Route 423 is a state route in the U.S. state of New Mexico. The road forms an east-west route through northern Albuquerque and is 17 miles long. The road is also known as Paseo Del Norte

Travel directions

State Route 423 begins in northwest Albuquerque at an intersection with Golf Course Road. The road called Paseo Del Norte begins even further west just outside the urban area. The road heads east and is a 2×3 lane expressway to Interstate 25. There is a bridge over the Rio Grande. East of I-25, Paseo Del Norte is a major city boulevard with 2×3 lanes and traffic lights.

History

In the 1980s, Paseo Del Norte was not very important, only the part between Coors Boulevard and I-25 had separate carriageways at the time, but only over Coors Boulevard was a grade separated connection, the rest was at ground level. The connection with 2nd Street was realized in about 1994. In the late 1990s, the road east of I-25 was widened from 1×2 lanes to 2×3 lanes with traffic lights to accommodate the growth of the urban area. On July 28, 2014, the connection with Jefferson Street opened.

Between summer 2013 and December 15, 2014, a junction with I-25 was realized, with flyovers from south to west and vice versa. These handle the heaviest traffic flows. The project cost $93 million.

Traffic intensities

In 2012, 26,700 vehicles drove daily on the westernmost section, rising to 79,100 vehicles on the bridge over the Rio Grande and 60,600 vehicles west of I-25. 43,300 vehicles drove east of I-25, dropping to 11,000 on the easternmost section.

Mountain Passes in New Mexico

This is an overview of mountain passes in New Mexico above 2,000 meters in elevation.

Characteristics

Most of the high mountain passes are located in northern New Mexico, where the east-west routes run through the chains of the Rocky Mountains. The highest tarmac road is the route to Sandia Crest above the city of Albuquerque, at 3,255 feet. The unnamed US 64 Summit in northern New Mexico is the highest thoroughfare. There are plenty of other insignificant mountain passes in New Mexico. The highest highway is Raton Pass on the Colorado border at 2,377 feet. Because the mountain ranges in New Mexico are not as elongated as in Colorado, there are many opportunities to get around the mountains. As a result, there are relatively few classic mountain passes that are the lowest point between two mountain peaks.

History

Little is known about the history of the mountain passes in New Mexico. The first are believed to have been discovered by Spaniards in the 17th or 18th century and later used by migrants. In particular, the Santa Fe Trail over Raton Pass was of interest. In the American Civil War, an important battle was fought on the Glorieta Pass. In the 1960s, I-25 and I-40 were built over the mountain passes.

List

Mountain pass Route Height (m)
Sandia Crest 3255
US 64 Summit 3200
Bobcat Pass 2993
Palo Flechado Pass 2777
Cloudcroft Summit 2642
Raton Pass 2377
Glorieta Pass 2304
Interstate 40 Summit 2217

Ports to Plains Corridor

The Ports to Plains Corridor.

According to Liuxers, the Ports to Plains Corridor is a series of roads in the United States and a name for a number of planned upgrades to improve connections between the ports on the Gulf of Mexico and the border crossings with Mexico (Port of Entry) with the High Plains. The corridor runs from Laredo, Texas to Denver, Colorado and passes through four states; Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Colorado. The Ports-to-Plains Alliance is a stakeholder group spanning a wider network of roads into Alberta, Canada.

Route

Texas

In Texas, the corridor begins in Laredo, a city on the border with Mexico. The route runs through Del Rio, San Angelo, Lubbock and Amarillo to the Oklahoma border. Between San Angelo and Lubbock is an alternate route via Midland, an important oil-producing region. In addition, north of Amarillo, there is a branch to Raton, New Mexico.

The following roads have been designated in Texas as part of the Port to Plains Corridor;

  • US 83: Laredo – Carrizo Springs
  • US 277: Carrizo Springs – Eagle Pass – Del Rio – San Angelo
  • US 87: San Angelo – Big Spring – Lamesa – Lubbock
  • SH 158 / SH 349: Sterling City – Midland – Lamesa (alternative route via Midland).
  • Interstate 27: Lubbock – Amarillo
  • US 287: Amarillo – Stratford – Oklahoma
  • US 87: Dumas – Dalhart – Clayton – Raton (New Mexico)

New Mexico

There is a branch line from Amarillo, Texas to Raton, New Mexico. It is formed by US 87 in Texas and US 87 in New Mexico. US 64 also runs on this route between Clayton and Raton. The branch line to Raton provides access to Interstate 25, the highway to Denver. I-25 itself is not formally part of the Port to Plains Corridor.

Oklahoma

In the state of Oklahoma, the corridor briefly passes through the Oklahoma Panhandle, via Boise City. Here again the corridor follows US 287 in Oklahoma.

Colorado

In Colorado, the corridor leads over US 287 in Colorado, via Lamar to Limon. Between Kit Carson and Limon, the route is also double-numbered with US 40. Limon is only a small town, but a well-known point for being the only control city on I-70 from Denver to the east. The corridor therefore also follows Interstate 70 between Limon and Denver.

Characteristics

The Port to Plains Corridor ranges from a single carriageway to a 2×2 divided highway to an Interstate Highway. In Texas, relatively large parts are a 2×2 divided highway or freeway. Elsewhere, the road is still mostly single carriageway. The road mainly leads through flat steppe, the High Plains. The road has a fairly monotonous and boring landscape, in southern Texas the route avoids the scenically attractive Texas Hill Country, although parts of the route between Del Rio and Sonora still have some scenic value.

History

In the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991, the Ports to Plains Corridor was designated as Corridor 38, a High Priority Corridor of the National Highway System. However, under this law no funding was specifically set for the corridor, nor was a minimum standard set for the corridor. In 2019, a law was passed in Texas authorizing a study for the extension of I-27.

Future

There is no specific plan to upgrade all parts of the route. The chance that this will become an Interstate Highway is very small. The most obvious part that could be upgraded to freeway is between San Angelo and Lubbock in Texas. Elsewhere there are wishes to upgrade the route from Amarillo to Limon. This also coincides with the corridor from Dallas to Denver, which is not formally part of the Port to Plains Corridor between Dallas and Amarillo, but has mostly 2×2 lanes and handles a lot of long-haul traffic. It seems unlikely that large parts of the Port to Plains Corridor will be upgraded in the foreseeable future, since its creation in 1991, upgrades have only been carried out sporadically.

State Route 423 in New Mexico

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Economy of Russia https://www.ezinereligion.com/economy-of-russia.html Fri, 26 Aug 2022 11:04:36 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1554 Read More »]]> Russia concentrated the decisive potential of the former Soviet Union. Its enormous energy and other mineral resources ensured the supply of energy and raw materials to the industrial and other sectors of all other union republics and Eastern Europe.

However, the vast area of ​​the country and unfavorable natural conditions have always represented a major obstacle to development. Despite its ambitious and generous agricultural programs, Russia still has to import food, and its antiquated industry cannot compete well with the advanced technologies of advanced industrial nations.

Agriculture

Despite its vast area, Russia’s agriculture has relatively limited agroclimatic resources. Arable land occupies only 8%, meadows and pastures another 5% of the area. The vast majority of arable land is located in the southern regions of the European part of Russia. Plant production is of lesser importance and its production is not able to ensure enough cereals for own needs. The most important crop is wheat (4th place in the world), significant is the production of barley, rye and oats, less corn. Russia is still the world’s largest producer of potatoes. Of the technical crops, the cultivation of sunflower, sugar beet and flax is the most important. Stocks of livestock (cattle, pigs, poultry and sheep) are among the highest in the world, but productivity is low and production has been declining in recent years. Despite major changes in the collective farm, the state farm sector still manages about half of the agricultural land.

According to thedressexplorer, the Russian fishing fleet, which operates from the polar waters to the Pacific Ocean, is one of the largest in the world, and Russia also ranks among the leaders in fish production. Russia also has the largest timber reserves in the world. Coniferous trees clearly dominate, with larches in first place.

Industry

The backbone of the Russian economy is heavy industry, processing the vast amount of raw materials that the country provides. The most important from the point of view of the functioning of the entire economy is the extraction of energy raw materials, the export of which is a decisive source of income. Next to the Persian Gulf region, northwestern Siberia has the world’s largest reserves of oil and natural gas. Oil is further extracted between the Volga and the Urals (Tatarstan), in the North Caucasus and Sakhalin Island. The reserves of black and brown coal are also the largest in central and eastern Siberia (Yakutia), in the Kuznetsk and Kansko-Achinsk basins. The largest deposits of natural gasthey are in the north of the West Siberian Plain near the Arctic Circle and on the Yamal Peninsula. The problem is the extraction of fuels in extreme conditions, in places beyond the Arctic Circle, large losses during extraction and severe damage to the environment. A major drop in oil production is causing concern. There are also large reserves of iron ore, especially in the area of ​​the Kursk magnetic anomaly near the border with Ukraine and in southern Siberia. Most of the ores of non-ferrous metals can be found in the Urals, but the deposits of some are already largely exhausted. Gold mining in Eastern Siberia and the Far East is very important, the production of nickel (Norisk, Kola Peninsula), copper (Ural), bauxite (Ural, Eastern Siberia), polymetallic ores (Kuzbas and Ural), tungsten is globally important (southern Siberia), tin (Transbaikalia) and platinum (Urals, Siberia), from non-ore raw materials asbestos, apatites (Kola Peninsula), diamonds (Yakutia), potassium salts, mica and solid.

The reserves of water energy are enormous. The largest hydropower plants are on the Yenisei, Angara and Volga rivers. There is a lack of funds for the construction of others. The nuclear power plant construction program was suspended in 1986 when a reactor explosion in Chernobyl, Ukraine exposed safety weaknesses in a number of facilities.

Under the Soviet system, Russia provided a decisive part of the industrial production and needs of the whole union. It was characterized by the predominance of heavy industries, very demanding in terms of materials and energy, focused on the production of means of production, the production of consumer goods was of secondary importance. This is also one of the reasons for the large decline in industrial production, for which there is currently no demand. Only the most advanced technical products such as aircraft, some types of weapons, possibly other means of transport and machinery equipped with microprocessor technology can be competitive on world markets.

Transport and communication

Transport in the conditions of Russia, i.e. above all the huge distances between places of production (raw materials and food) and consumption, plays an extraordinary importance. After the destruction of central planning and the collapse of the USSR, transport became one of the weakest points that threaten economic transformation. It often happens that even food that must be imported in significant volumes spoils in warehouses or during transport, before it reaches the consumer.

The basis of Russian transport is the railway system, which serves the transport of goods over long distances and achieves, despite its great decline, still the largest performances in the world. Rail transport is developed primarily in the European part with a radial network of tracks leading from Moscow to all important centers of Russia and nearby countries. Rail transport is even more important for the connection of the European part with Siberia and the Far East, which is already provided by the doubled Siberian highway along its entire length. Its northern branch – the Baikal-Amur highway (BAM), built at huge costs, is not fully utilized.

Road transport transports much more cargo, but only over short distances, so performance is comparable to rail transport. The road network is extensive, but there are relatively few really high-quality roads. Automobilization is low, but the number of passenger cars is increasing rapidly (passenger manufacturing is the only growing sector). Inexpensive transport of goods on rivers, especially on the Volga and Siberian rivers, retains its importance. Pipeline transport, which transports the vast majority of oil and natural gas from Western Siberia to Central Europe, is very extensive.

Foreign trade is mostly carried out by a proven merchant fleet. In the far north and east, maritime transport is often the only link between communities scattered along some 50,000 km of coastline. Some ports freeze in winter, others, such as Murmansk, operate all year round. The largest ports are Novorossiysk on the Black Sea, St. Petersburg on the Baltic and Nachodka in the Far East. The airline network was the longest in the world. With the rise in fuel and air ticket prices, traffic has fallen sharply. However, it still represents the only type of connection for numerous areas.

Healthcare, social care and education

Under the Soviet regime, medical care was free and widely available throughout the Russian Federation, yet, for example, life expectancy was very low, especially for men. The standard of living of the inhabitants was not high, the living conditions were very bad. On the other hand, there was virtually no unemployment. The collapse of the Soviet system caused chaos in the old welfare network. Russia is now facing the same problems as many developing countries: high inflation, unemployment and a sharp rise in crime.

Hyperinflation in the early 1990s caused a sharp decline in living standards, and more and more Russians find themselves living below the subsistence minimum. The antiquated machinery of the welfare system has to contend with a huge increase in the homeless, refugees and impoverished people, and now the unemployed. Infant mortality is also increasing, the health and psychological condition of the population is deteriorating, and the increase in alcoholism and suicide is extreme.

Economy of Russia

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Sights and Tours in Porto, Portugal https://www.ezinereligion.com/sights-and-tours-in-porto-portugal.html Thu, 18 Aug 2022 17:50:11 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1543 Read More »]]> You should definitely plan two full days for Porto. You can discover great viewpoints, taste delicious port wines and typical Portuguese food, take a little trip to the sea or to the wonderful Douro region.

You can find all the important sights and tips for them in our article Porto Sights .

City tours and tours in Porto

Even if Porto is not particularly big and most of the sights are all in the old town, you usually take back very special memories on a guided tour.

So here are two of our recommendations:

Porto City Tour – Food Tour and Wine Tasting: This tour takes you 4 hours through the old town of Porto and costs 60 euros per person.

“Duero Valley: Wine Tasting, Lunch & River Cruise”: If you are in Porto a little longer, a trip to the Douro region is highly recommended. In this full-day tour you will visit the beautiful landscapes and wineries of northern Portugal. The whole thing costs 98 euros per person including meals.

If you are looking for more tips for exciting tours around Porto, have a look at our article: 11 special city tours and tours in Porto .

A city tour in Porto with an insider is a completely different experience than walking through the city alone.

Eating and Drink

Mmmmm. Portuguese food is so delicious. And then the wine.

Our favorite restaurant was Folias de Baco at 136 Rua Dos Caldeireiros. The small shop has a tiny menu, which is often a good sign.

According to sunglasseswill, there is a tapas menu for two including two glasses of wine for 20 euros, which is also available in a vegetarian version.

The tapas were super tasty and the wine was excellent too. If you don’t want a whole menu, you can also order the tapas individually.

But we definitely recommend the menu. If you don’t get a seat spontaneously, simply reserve a table for the next day.

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We also liked the Casa Santo Antonio at Rua da Assuncao 40. Tapas are also available here at reasonable prices.

The menu is only in Portuguese, but it’s still very tourist-friendly. The nice waitress just brought us different things until we were jam-packed.

There was also a liter of wine and the whole thing ended up costing about 25 euros. Perfect!

We had some difficulties finding something on Sunday evening, since many restaurants then closed. But there is always something, so we just had pizza.

Culinary specialties in Porto

In addition to tapas, you should definitely try the Francesinha dish .

This dish is a typical specialty in Porto and an absolute calorie bomb! Almost everything that is meaty is hidden between two slices of toast – cooked ham, chorizo, beef, sausages etc. and this is then baked with a lot of cheese at the end.

And because that’s not powerful enough, a rather thick sauce made of beer, mustard and tomatoes is poured over it.

With us, the sandwich was served with a lot of fries. After that you will definitely be full for a few hours.

To round it all off, you can treat yourself to a port wine typical of Porto.

Tip

Tipping is not uncommon, especially in the tourist regions of Portugal. Simply rounding up a number or giving a different sum, on the other hand, does.

If you want to tip, you’d better pay the bill on time and then put the tip on the table as you leave.

Tap water

In terms of water quality, it is generally safe to drink tap water in Portugal. However, the water is often heavily chlorinated.

We therefore recommend buying water from the supermarket instead. If you are planning a longer stay, a water filter (e.g. from Britta) could be worthwhile.

Travel time Porto: Weather and what do you have to pack?

The best time to travel to Porto is spring and autumn.

Due to Porto’s proximity to the coast, summer is also quite pleasant with temperatures between 25-30 degrees.

You can read about the clothes and other equipment we have in our backpacks in our article packing list city trip.

But what you always have to expect in Porto is rain! So pack a rain cape or an umbrella. Of course, your camera equipment should also be well protected.

By the way, you don’t need a power adapter. German plugs also fit into Portuguese sockets.

It rained cats and dogs on our first day in Porto. In the afternoon it stopped and we were able to explore the city. It was still windy, so when the subway comes over such a high bridge and you are afraid of heights, you can hold on for a moment :).

The breakfast room in the Oporto Loft

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Antelope Canyon in Arizona https://www.ezinereligion.com/antelope-canyon-in-arizona.html Fri, 12 Aug 2022 15:19:07 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1538 Read More »]]> Tips for perfect photography in the crevices of Antelope Canyon

The narrow crevices are incredibly photogenic. But it is not that easy to shoot such beautiful photos of these breathtaking spots as those that can be admired in travel guides. Tourists arriving to take photos should therefore prepare thoroughly for the planned photo tour and familiarize themselves with the settings of their camera. You should also remember that there is a lot of dust in the air there. You should therefore avoid changing lenses if possible.

That makes taking photos in the crevices so difficult

If you set off with the camera towards the canyon, you will face some difficulties there. The lighting conditions change hour by hour. It is particularly difficult when you are shooting towards the sky. The light is then often overexposed. One reason why when you are looking for the perfect spot for your photo, you should look for a spot where the sky cannot be seen. There are many such places in the Antelope Canyon.

Those who want to explore the Antelope Canyon during their stay in the hours of the morning or the hours of the afternoon will often find more peace and less people there, but have to forego strong contrasts in the recordings at this time of day. However, the lighting conditions do not prevent you from taking beautiful pictures with the right settings and the right exposure time.

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The perfect conditions for taking pictures of the light rays with the camera during the photo tour are found at lunchtime from around 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The lighting conditions are then best and the light reaches as a spot into the sand on the floor of the canyon. The guides who lead the photo tours know the places where the light is best.

Sunlight as an important factor for the optimal photo

These cones of light can only be found in Upper Antelope Canyon. One of the main reasons most people visit this part of the canyon. The number of visitors is correspondingly high in the main season. The “fee” for entry is then also more expensive.

For breathtaking pictures, however, sunlight is essential. Guided tours that do not take place in direct sunlight can be less frequented, especially in high season, but unfortunately on these days you have to do without pictures with incredible details, as you know from the travel guide. The flash tends to stay off when taking photos at this location near the Utah border.

Tip: A tripod is recommended to take the best possible picture of the popular motif. Tripods may only be used as part of guided photo tours and exclusively in the Upper Antelope Canyon. In Lower Antelope Canyon it is not allowed to use tripods, partly because of the stairs and ladders. Bringing rucksacks or other bags is also not allowed.

Places to stay near the canyon

There are tons of hotels, motels, and other accommodations like that in Page Antelope Canyon Inn on visitors. That is recommended Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell. The hotel is 8.4 kilometers from Upper Antelope Canyon.

Camping and tents nearby

Also camping or tents is possible tourists in the area of the slot canyons. In our experience, the following campsites are recommended:

  • Lone Rock Beach: Lone rock is a popular spot for locals and is around a 20 minute drive from Page. Here on the beach you can find a nice spot near the water.
  • Alstrom Point: The Alstrom Point is part of the GCNRA and offers one of the most beautiful views of Lake Powell. Definitely one of the nicest campsites in the area.
  • Wahweap RV and Campground: The campsite is in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and is located approximately 20 miles from Antelope Canyon. Due to its location next to the marina, you can also marvel at imposing ships.
  • Page Campground: The Page campground is less than 7 miles from Antelope Canyon.

A break at the campsite at Lake Powell can be combined with a round trip, for example, when traveling from Las Vegas to Monument Valley.

With the dog in the canyon?

The entire area of ​​the canyon, which is privately owned by the Navajos, may only be walked with a guide. Dogs are not allowed to enter the Antelope Canyon. B. be housed in Page in a boarding house. The prices for the accommodation can be requested directly there.

Visitor centers

There is no real visitor center.

Contact information:

Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park Office
PO Box 4803, Page, AZ 86040
Tel. (928) 698-2808

Internet: navajonationparks.org
Grand Falls: (928) 686-3227
Wheatfields Lake: (928) 724-2220
Rainbow Bridge: (928) 698-2808
San Juan River: (928) 871-6647
Marble Canyon: (928) 698-2808

Time zone: Mountain Standard Time (MST)

Opening Hours

The visit is possible at any time of the year. The times for the inspection depend on the tours offered. The providers offer guided tours for groups at different times.

When it comes to the best travel time, it depends on your own preferences. A visit in spring is a good compromise between good light and not too many visitors.

Entrance fees

Adult entry fee: approximately $ 80 per person. Children ages 0-12 pay around $ 60 (USD).

It is advisable to reserve tickets before traveling. Especially when there are high numbers of visitors, it is otherwise almost impossible to join a tour through the canyon with its breathtaking rock faces and enjoy this natural wonder with your own eyes. Make sure you book early.

The price refers to the tours. The actual entry into the canyon is the Navajo Permit Fee.

Directions to the entrance and the parking lots

From Page, Antelope Canyon can be reached east on Highway 98 towards Kayenta. The parking lot for the Upper Antelope Canyon is to the right of the Milemarker 299. Half a kilometer further follows the entrance to the Lower Antelope Canyon. This is also where the ticket booth can be found, where the fee for the Navajo Park has to be paid.

A car is usually required to get to Antelope Canyon. In order to save costs when booking your rental car, we recommend comparing prices the platform billiger-mietwagen.de.

Address

Land Department / Parks & Recreation 48 West Taylor Rd. Bldg # 8966, Hwy 264, St. Michaels, Arizona 86515

Antelope Canyon in Arizona

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Orlando – the Tourist Capital of United States https://www.ezinereligion.com/orlando-the-tourist-capital-of-united-states.html Fri, 05 Aug 2022 12:33:16 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1536 Read More »]]> Orlando is often reduced to its theme parks. Wrongly. Because the city in the center of Florida has many other attractions ready for its visitors. Interesting museums, shopping opportunities, theaters, parks and much more make the capital of Orange County an interesting travel destination and also make the hearts of those who want to not only plunge into the hustle and bustle of the theme parks beat faster.

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Nonetheless, it is, of course, above all the many theme parks with their parades, landmarks and other attractions that make Orlando the “tourist capital” of the USA and which made the city the most-visited tourist destination in the United States in 2014 with over 62 million visitors from all over the world.

Numbers, data, facts about Orlando (Florida)

  • State: Florida
  • County: Orange County
  • Population: 285,713 (V2018) / 2,474,314 (2016) – metropolitan area
  • Area: 261.5 km2
  • Population density: 1,092.6 residents per square kilometer
  • Founding year: 1875
  • Height: 34 meters
  • Time zone: Eastern (UTC -5 / -4)
  • Postal codes: 32803, 32812, 32817, 32822, 32824, 32829, 32831, 32833, 32835, 32837, 32839
  • Area code: +1 321, 407
  • Mayor: Buddy Dyer

Location and urban structure

Orlando is located in central Florida about 120 kilometers from Tampa and 200 kilometers from Jacksonville. If you want to drive to Miami, you have to cover 350 kilometers, while the distance to Tallahassee is 400 kilometers. Key West is even further away. Neighboring communities are Winter Park to the north and Belle Island and Edgewood to the south.

The city itself is divided into four boroughs: Northwest, Northeast, Southwest and Southeast Orlando. Downtown is located in the southwest of Northeast Orlando. The maximum west-east extension is 25 kilometers, the north-south extension 30 kilometers. Orlando is part of the Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, also known as Greater Orlando for short.

Weather and climate in Orlando

Orlando has a subtropical humid east side climate that shows characteristics of a tropical rainy climate. From May to September in particular, it gets quite hot and humid in Orlando. The temperatures are often over 30 degrees Celsius and seldom drop below 21 degrees Celsius even at night. During this time, the humidity and the chance of rain showers are high. There are thunderstorms and torrential showers almost every day.

It is milder and less humid in the months from October to April. During this time, temperatures range between around 9 and 25 degrees Celsius. Night frost and snowfall are rare in the region. The lowest temperature ever measured was -8 degrees Celsius. In the months of April to October hurricanes are to be expected, which can hit Florida very hard.

A good travel time is therefore the months of November to May, when there is a predominantly mild climate with low humidity. Hurricanes are not to be expected during this time. These usually haunt Florida from the beginning of August to the end of October.

Population of Orlando

Orlando is the fifth largest city in Florida by population and is home to 1,092.6 people per square kilometer. More than half of the population (60.7 percent) are white, including 29.7 percent of Hispanic descent. The African American population makes up 26.1 percent. 4.3 percent of people in Orlando are of Asian descent. 0.2 percent of the population have Native American or Alaskan roots.

At 51.4 percent, Orlando has slightly more women than men. The majority are between 20 and 39 years old. English is the mother tongue of around 75 percent of the population. The Spanish language accounts for 16.6 percent.

Tourism is essential economically

Economically, tourism is essential in the Orlando metropolitan area. The unemployment rate is 3.0%, below the national average. Orlando is home to a number of major corporations such as SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Planet Hollywood and Lockheed Martin.

The state University of Central Florida (UCF) is the largest institution of its kind in Florida and the second largest university in the United States. Over 50,000 students study at the university.

Good infrastructure allows you to travel there on a wide variety of routes

Orlando can be easily reached by rental car, train or plane. Interstate 4 is the only one of its kind that runs through the city. In addition, the urban area is served by various expressways such as Florida’s Turnpike and the East-West Expressway, which are similar to highways and are subject to tolls. In addition, some highways and state roads lead through the large tourist stronghold.

The connection with the railroad also works well. Because the Central Florida Rail Corridor runs through Orlando, which is served by SunRail from Poinciana via Downtown Orlando to DeBary. There is also an Amtrak train station south of downtown, which Silver Star and Silver Meteor serve daily to Miami and New York City. On long-distance buses, the Amtrak Thruway Motorcoach and the Greyhound Lines should be mentioned. Local bus services to the surrounding area are also offered.

There are also three airports in Orlando. Orlando International Airport is the main airport for Orlando and central Florida and handled around 35.7 million passengers in 2014. It is the second largest airport in Florida. Another international airport is Orlando Sanford International Airport 30 kilometers north of the city near Sanford. Orlando Executive Airport is only used for private and business aviation.

Book a hotel in Orlando

There are many hotels in Orlando. Including numerous luxury hotels with exclusive amenities. Well-known luxury hotels for high demands are, for example Ritz-Carlton Orlando in Grande Lakes, the JW Marriott Orlando in Grande Lakes or that Loews Portofino Bay Hotel on Universal Boulevard. This is also a luxurious hotel with a special flair Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel in Spanish style.

Nevertheless, it is not always easy to find a free room for your stay – regardless of whether you value amenities in a luxury hotel or not. Ideally, try to choose your hotel based on your travel plans. You will find many hotels near Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, International Drive attractions, or the Holy Land Experience. The parks are all located southwest of Orlando. Not far from Disney is the Lake Buena Vista Resort Village. Epcot is approximately a 16 minute drive from the resort. The Rosen Center Hotel, which is not too far from the Universal Orlando Resort, also promises good value for money.

Tip: Book a hotel on International Drive for your stay. The location is well suited for visiting various sights in and around the city while on vacation. There is also no shortage of shops on International Drive.

History of Orlando

Orlando was first settled by Europeans in 1836. Before that, members of the Muskogee and other Indian tribes lived in the area. The settlement “Jermigan”, from which Orlando eventually emerged, was founded in 1842 and finally renamed Orlando in 1857. Orlando received its official city charter with only 85 residents in 1875 and was finally connected to the railroad network in 1881, whereby the population grew relatively quickly.

In 1890 Orlando had 10,000 residents and became the center of lemon cultivation thanks to its favorable climatic conditions. However, the rise was suddenly slowed down by a frost break, called Big Freeze, and the development of the city in history set back decades. From 1964 the city began to flourish with the theme parks and over time the city developed into an entertainment center that is second to none.

Arrival to Orlando

  • By Air: Orlando International Airport is located approximately 6 miles southeast of downtown Orlando. Non-stop flights are possible with Lufthansa from Frankfurt, for example.
  • By Rail: Orlando has Amtrak connections to Miami and New York.
  • By bus: Various long-distance bus routes serve Orlando.
  • By Car / Rental Car: Orlando is accessible from I-95 and I-75.

Orlando - the Tourist Capital of United States

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French Polynesia Figures and Facts https://www.ezinereligion.com/french-polynesia-figures-and-facts.html Thu, 28 Jul 2022 16:48:24 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1534 Read More »]]> French Polynesia (the capital of Papete, Tahiti) is located in the Pacific Ocean, 17,700 km from Europe and occupies about five million square kilometers of water. The distance from Tahiti to California is 6520 km, to Australia – 5390 km, to Tokyo – 9500 km.
The islands were formed as a result of volcanic eruptions in different periods, which explains the diversity of landscapes.

118 luxurious islands are located on 5 archipelagos, of which the SOCIETY archipelago and the TUAMOTU archipelago are of the greatest interest in terms of recreation.

Climate: tropical. According to smartercomputing, the average temperature during the year is 27 degrees. The water temperature in Tahiti is 26 degrees. Hot sun softened by the fresh Pacific breeze.

Population: About 215,000 people

Electricity: 110 or 220V (depending on the island). Carefully check the voltage before turning on any electrical appliance.

Currency: Polynesian Franc (XPF); 1 Euro = 119.253 XPF

Public Health: No vaccinations required as there are no dangerous animals or insects in Polynesia. The healthcare system is at a high level.

Moving Between Islands: There are different ways to move between islands. Contact the Itineria office in Moscow regarding each specific route.

Clothing: In Polynesia, both locals and tourists dress simply. Bring beach and summer clothes, preferably cotton. For the boat trip, bring linen and wool clothing as it can get chilly in the evening. Footwear: sandals, hiking shoes, plastic sandals for coral walking (you can find them in any shop or hotel locally). Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, panama, swimsuit.

Languages: French and Tahitian are the official languages. English is spoken in hotels, tourist places, shops and restaurants.

Time: When Sunday is noon in Tahiti, in Paris Sunday is 23.00 in winter and 24.00 in summer, in Moscow Monday is 1.00 in winter and 2.00 in summer.

Tipping: Not part of Polynesian culture.

Souvenirs: The best memory of Fr. Tahiti – black pearls (there are pearls of different shades of gray, green and bronze colors). The cost of one pearl can reach hundreds of dollars, but there are also inexpensive specimens.

History

The date of the beginning of the settlement of the Polynesian islands is difficult to establish – most likely, this happened in the period from the 10th to the 5th century BC. Brave sailors from the tribes of Asia and South America reached the Marquesas Islands, where the cradle of the Maoi civilization is located, and then mastered the nearby archipelagos. And when, in the 18th century, Captains Cook and Bougainville discovered these paradise islands, the history of Polynesian culture on them totaled more than 800 years!

The strictly hierarchical Maoi society had a complex culture and religion, which is now the object of research. Its ancient traces have been preserved on many islands: tiki – carved stones and marae – sanctuaries, which are stones standing vertically, stretched in a line, or folded into a pyramid. Traditional art can be traced in tattoos, which have not only aesthetic value, but also reflect the social status of their wearer, as well as in ancient dances and polyphonic songs – himene tarava and ruau.

And before the 18th century, of course, there were contacts with the West – in the 16th – 17th centuries, but they did not have a great influence on local customs. It was in the XVIII century that the word “Polynesia” appeared, denoting the numerous islands discovered in the “South Seas” by great navigators. In the process of a long search for a large “southern continent”, which, according to scientists of that era, was supposed to “balance the world”, sailors met only small islands that did not have special wealth (neither gold nor silver), but which became the embodiment of paradise on earth – after long months of sailing, landing in Tahiti or Bora Bora, the sailors felt like they were in the Garden of Eden.

Officially, the island of Tahiti was discovered on June 23, 1767 by the Englishman Samuel Wallis. The next visitor to the island was the Frenchman Louis-Antoine de Bougainville, who arrived on April 6, 1768 on the frigate La Boudeuse. The next was Captain Cook, who visited these islands three times – in 1769, 1773 and 1777. But the most famous is the expedition of 1789, the purpose of which was to collect shoots of breadfruit, designed to serve as food for colonists and black slaves on Caribbean plantations. The Bounty sailing ship, commanded by Captain William Bly, became the scene of the most famous ship riot in history – the captain’s mate, Christian Fletcher and his accomplices left the ship on a boat and settled on Pitcairn Island (between Mangareva Island and Easter Island) to avoid the gallows.

On June 29, 1880, King Pomare V handed over his lands to France. Since 1984, French Polynesia has had the status of an Overseas Territory (TOM) and enjoys broad autonomy – it has its own President and Council of Ministers, as well as a legislative assembly elected by popular vote. The administration of France extends only to the legal, financial and defensive spheres.

In 1996, there were 223,752 inhabitants in French Polynesia: 164,953 on the Windward Islands, 27,347 on the Leeward Islands (of which the Society’s archipelago is made up), 8,531 on the Marquesas, 16,110 on the Tuamotu and Gambier, and 6,811 in the Australians.

French Polynesia History

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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Geography https://www.ezinereligion.com/philadelphia-pennsylvania-geography.html Fri, 22 Jul 2022 10:05:49 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1532 Read More »]]> According to Citypopulationreview, Philadelphia is the third largest city in the United States by number of inhabitants, the main city of the state of Pennsylvania, capital of the county of the same name, arose at the confluence of the Delaware and Schuylkill rivers, at 39 °, 57 ‘N. and 75 °, 9 ′ W.: 162 km away. from the Atlantic Ocean and is located 49 km. downstream from Trenton (New Jersey), where commercial navigation on the Delaware River begins. The city is surrounded, at a short distance, by numerous very important centers, including Camden (New Jersey), which is located on the left bank of the river, facing the metropolis (118,700 residents); Chester (Pennsylvania), on the western shore, south of Philadelphia (59,164 residents), 20 km. away, etc.

The geographical conditions of the territory are excellent, where the metropolis was born and developed, benefiting from the presence of two important waterways, the Delaware, which flows down from the northern regions, and the Schuylkill, which comes from the north-west, from Blue Mountain, through a rich coal region; the vast foothill area, which extends from the Delaware River to the mountainous area (Kittatinny Range), is fertile, once rich in woods, dotted with numerous centers.

As for the temperature, the climate of Philadelphia brings us back to an almost continental type of transition, with rather cold winters (average 1 °, 1; January has an average of 0 °), hot summers (average 23 °, 3; July has average temperatures of 24 °, 4); and therefore a remarkable excursion (over 23 °). The imbalances between absolute maximums and minimums are very strong, as it rises from −21 °, 1 in February to 39 °, 4 in July. Snow is abundant, mainly in the months from December to March, with the maximum in February (192.5 mm. On average). Rainfall is abundant, distributed throughout each month of the year, with a slight prevalence for the summer months. The two wettest months are July and August; the least rainy in April. Very frequent fogs, very dense, especially in late autumn.

During the coldest winters, ice is an obstacle to navigation, both in the Delaware Bay and on the river; ice usually appears in December between Chester and Philadelphia and is kept in motion by tidal currents. After March 1, the ice almost completely disappears. northwest winds prevail over Philadelphia in all seasons except summer, when southwest winds blow.

In the year 1743 Philadelphia counted 14,563 individuals; according to the 1930 census it had 1,950,960 inhabitants: it is therefore the third city of the confederation after New York and Chicago. The demographic increase of the city does not present those extraordinary changes, typical of other North American agglomerations, with the exception of the decade 1850-1860 in which the percentage increase was 366%, due, however, mostly to the annexation of the various districts, decreed by law of 1854.

The population of the center has risen from 28,522 individuals in 1790 (in which year it occupied the second place, coming after New York) to 41,220 in 1800, to 53,722 in 1810; to 63,802 in 1820; to 80,462 in 1830; to 93,665 in 1840; to 121,376 in 1850, to 565,529 in 1860; to 674,022 in 1870; to 847,170 in 1880; to 1,046,964 in 1890; in 1900 the population was 1,293,697 inhabitants; in 1910, of 1,549,008; in 1920 of 1,823,779; in 1930, as we have seen, of 1,950,960 individuals. The surface occupied by the city currently measures 336 sq km.

According to the 1930 census, the ethnic composition of the city was as follows: Whites 88.6%; 11.4% color element. Foreign-born whites made up 18.9% of the population. The white element born abroad in 1920 was 397,927 individuals; the most represented nationalities were the following: Russians 95,744; 64,590 Irish; Italians 63,723; Germans, 39,766; Poles 31,112; British 30,844, etc.

The metropolitan district of Philadelphia includes, of course, a much larger population. In the territory of 16 km. more than 2.3 million individuals lived in 1927; with a double radius there were 2.7 million; with a radius of 64 km. 3.5 million; with one of 128, 5.4 million. Part of Delaware County was annexed in 1927.

On April 18, 1682, William Penn ordered Thomas Holme to draw up the master plan for the future city. The center of this was established halfway between the Delaware and Schuylkill rivers, precisely at the point where the two rivers are closest to each other: two avenues were built cutting each other at right angles, and at their intersection arose a small park: four free spaces were left at the four corners of this central section, which later gave rise to the current Rittenhouse Square, in southwest  of City Hall, Washington Square to the SE., Franklin Square to the northeast  and Logan Square at NO. All the rest of the city was intersected by a dense network of narrow streets cutting off at right angles. The present central portion of Philadelphia is therefore only the material implementation of its founder’s grandiose plan: in the center, the City Hall, which leads to the two main arteries, Market Street, with an east-west direction, which, starting from the Delaware River, proceeds westwards crossing the river. Schuylkill; and Broad Street, running north-south, divided by City Hall into two sections, one north and the other south.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Geography

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What to See in Aqaba and Umm al Jimal (Jordan) https://www.ezinereligion.com/what-to-see-in-aqaba-and-umm-al-jimal-jordan.html Fri, 15 Jul 2022 03:30:31 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1529 Read More »]]> Aqaba (Jordan)

In the very south of Jordan, on the coast of the Gulf of Aqaba, there is the country’s only port – Aqaba. This is a fairly young, but rapidly developing resort. Sandy beaches stretch along the entire city, rocky beaches begin only in its southern part. You can relax in Aqaba all year round, in winter the temperature of coastal waters does not fall below +20 degrees, and cool breezes soften the summer heat. Upscale hotels are located in the northern part of the resort. Aqaba has both public and private beaches. Mostly locals relax on public beaches, so it’s better to pay a small amount and relax on the beaches owned by hotels. On each beach near the shore there are submarines or glass-bottomed boats that offer tours of the Gulf of Aqaba.

In the coastal waters of the Gulf of Aqaba, very close to the coast, there are coral reefs with a colorful underwater world where you can go diving. There are about 30 dive sites here, 27 of which belong to the Marine Park. About 300 species of coral are found in coastal waters, and the coral gardens that surround the coast are home to 1,000 species of fish. Underwater visibility at the resort reaches 40 m, and in the summer months it can exceed 50 m. The most popular dive site is Cedar Pride. This is a sunken ship that has been lying at the bottom of the sea since 1985. It is located 130 m from the shore at a depth of 25 m. This place is suitable for trained divers, because strong currents are noted here. In the Power Station coral wall area, you can see sharks, wrasses and moray eels. In the northern part of the so-called First Bay there are very beautiful reefs, the local sandy bottom is covered with red corals. Immersion depth varies from 12 to 30 m. ” – sharks. For night dives, the Rainbow Reef is suitable, where there are a lot of lobsters and starfish in all colors of the rainbow. The Japanese Gardens are famous among snorkelers for their colorful underwater world. There is even a Tank in coastal waters. This is an American tank that was submerged in 1990 to create a popular dive site. – sharks. For night dives, the Rainbow Reef is suitable, where there are a lot of lobsters and starfish in all colors of the rainbow. The Japanese Gardens are famous among snorkelers for their colorful underwater world. There is even a Tank in coastal waters. This is an American tank that was submerged in 1990 to create a popular dive site.

In ancient times, Aqaba was located at the crossroads of the main routes between Europe, Asia and Africa, so there are many historical sights here. During excavations, the ruins of an ancient church were discovered in the city. They date back to the 3rd century AD and are believed to be the oldest church in the world. In the 12th century, the Crusaders built a fort in Aqaba, which was rebuilt in the 14th century and has survived to this day.

Northeast of Aqaba is the desert Wadi Rum, which is considered the best place for hiking in Jordan. It is located 50 km northeast of Aqaba.. Here you will see dry riverbeds, sand dunes and mountains, among which is the highest point in the country – Jebel Ram (1734 m). At sunset, the mountains turn red, creating a unique landscape. The best time to visit Wadi Rum is in the spring, when the desert turns green for a short period after the rains. Wadi Rum is a real sand museum. The events described in the Bible took place here, and ancient drawings remained on some rocks. In the desert, you can take a safari by jeep or camel, and tours in a hot air balloon are also arranged. In addition to the local landscape, tourists will be able to see the Bedouin settlements and get acquainted with their culture.

Umm al Jimal (Jordan)

According to shoe-wiki, Umm al-Jimal is located just 10 km from the Syrian border. Translated from Arabic, the name of the city means “mother of the camel”. Once it was the main stopping point on the caravan route through the Syrian desert. Now Umm al-Jimal is a unique monument of ancient civilizations. The city is built of black basalt, here you can see the ruins of numerous stone buildings, some of which date back to the 2nd century BC. e., the remains of churches, Roman barracks and defensive complexes. Tours and safaris depart

from Umm al-Jimal to the palaces of the desert, which are located in the eastern part of Jordan. There are about 30 of them in total, they were built in the 7th-8th centuries AD. Once upon a time, these were Caliph residences, which were buried in greenery due to irrigation with special irrigation facilities. Now the majestic red-yellow buildings of the palaces rise among the sands, some of them are destroyed, and some are perfectly preserved to this day. All the palaces of the desert can be seen during a day trip from Amman. The Qasr Amra Palace was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it is one of the best preserved examples of early Islamic painting. Its walls and ceilings are decorated with multi-colored frescoes depicting famous caliphs, and the ceiling of the baths is decorated with frescoes of the starry sky of the Northern Hemisphere and the signs of the zodiac. Very interesting oasis Azraq – the only place in the desert where there is water. The oasis covers an area of 12 sq. km, on which luxurious gardens, parks and swimming pools are spread. In addition, a reserve of the same name was created here, because every year birds stop here during their flights between Africa and Asia.

Umm al Jimal (Jordan)

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Major Cities in British Columbia (Canada) https://www.ezinereligion.com/major-cities-in-british-columbia-canada.html Fri, 08 Jul 2022 05:41:08 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1524 Read More »]]> Whistler, British Columbia (Canada)

Whistler ski resort is located 120 km north of Vancouver on the slopes of the Coast Range. Whistler is one of the most popular skiing destinations in North America. The ski season lasts here from November to August. The resort consists of two zones – Whistler and Blackcomb. The total elevation difference is 1632 m, the highest point is at an altitude of 2284 m. The resort has 200 slopes, of which 20% for beginners, 55% of medium difficulty and 25% of difficult ones, and 33 lifts (2 high-speed gondolas, 6 high-speed 4-wheel chairs)., 2 three-seat, 1 two-seat, 5 rope tows). In whistler there are also all the opportunities for snowboarding, heliskiing and freeride. The infrastructure of the resort meets the highest requirements, there are ski schools, equipment rental, more than 100 hotels of various levels, more than 200 restaurants with dishes from various cuisines of the world, bars, nightclubs, an ice rink, gyms, golf courses, snowmobile rentals, mountain bicycles and sledges.

Kelowna, British Columbia (Canada)

According to securitypology, Kelowna is located 400 km east of Vancouver in the center of the fertile Okanogan Valley on the eastern shore of Lake Okanagan. The local climate is similar to subtropical and is characterized by a large number of sunny days a year. This allows you to grow a variety of fruits here. The city is surrounded by orchards, vineyards and even lavender farms. The area surrounding Kelowna and the Okanogan Lake Valley is a popular destination for wine tourism. Numerous wine festivals are held here in spring, summer and autumn. Excursions are organized to local vineyards and wine farms, during which you can learn the process of making wine and taste the best wines of Canada. In addition, Lake Okanogan is a great place to relax on the beaches.

Big White ski resort is located 55 km from the city of Kelowna. It is known for its ski school, which is considered one of the best in the world. The resort is located at an altitude of 1508 m, the height difference is 810 m. Tourists are offered 140 ski slopes, 25 km of cross-country ski trails and 13 lifts. There is also a tubing park, equipment rental, hotels and cottages, several dozen restaurants, bars and discos. Big White has heliskiing opportunities and offers a variety of excursions: snowmobile tours, dog sledding, snowshoeing and much more. Red Mountain ski resort is located near Big White, which was included by Forbes magazine in the top ten best ski resorts in North America. It has 87 slopes of the most diverse level, 6 lifts and a developed infrastructure.

Golden, British Columbia (Canada)

The city of Golden is located on the eastern border of the province of British Columbia in the Rocky Mountains, 260 km west of the largest city in the province of Alberta – Calgary. It is surrounded by five national parks: Kutney, Yoho, Glacier, Banff and Jasper.

Yoho National Park was established in 1886. Now it occupies an area of 1310 square meters. km. The park is interesting mountains covered with dense forests, river valleys, numerous waterfalls, including one of the highest in Canada – Takakkaw Falls with a fall height of 254 m, as well as one of the most important areas in the world where the remains of fossil plants and animals are preserved – Burgis Shale. For travel 400 km of hiking trails were laid in the park here.

South of Yoho Park is Kutney National Park. Its area is 1406 sq. km. Here is the largest artificial pool with water from hot springs. It is located in the resort town of Radium. The water temperature of local springs reaches +39 degrees, and sulfates, calcium, bicarbonates, silicon and magnesium compounds predominate in their composition. In addition, in Kutney Park you can see glaciers, mountain rivers, canyons and various representatives of the fauna of the western slopes of the Rocky Mountains. Glacier National Park area is 1350 sq. km. There are about 400 glaciers here, which cover about 12% of the park. Glacier Park crosses the Trans-Canada Highway from west to east, as well as the historic section of the Canadian Pacific Railroad – Rogers Road. The Rogers Road was opened at the end of the 19th century and became historically significant as it connected various parts of the country.

Also in the vicinity of the city of Golden there are several ski resorts. Fairney Resort is one of the most popular ski resorts in British Columbia. The height difference is 857 m, there are 106 slopes, 10 lifts, as well as all kinds of entertainment. At Kicking Horse Resort is the highest restaurant in the country. The elevation difference here is 1260 m, there are 78 slopes and 3 lifts. The Fairmont Hot Springs resort is known for its low prices. It offers 13 ski slopes and 2 lifts.

Golden, British Columbia (Canada)

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Landmarks in Madrid, Spain https://www.ezinereligion.com/landmarks-in-madrid-spain.html Fri, 01 Jul 2022 03:35:12 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1520 Read More »]]> In the vicinity of Plaza de España, the vast Oeste Park is located. (West Park). This hilly park with many hiking trails is great for walking. Birches, cypresses, cedars and pines grow here. The park is interesting garden of roses “Rosaleda”, where annually in May is held a festival of roses. Also on the territory of the park is the ancient Egyptian temple of Debod (2nd century BC), which in 1968 was given by the Egyptian authorities to the Spaniards in order to protect the unique monument located in the immediate vicinity of the construction site of the Aswan dams from destruction. Not far from the temple is the Teleferico cable car, connecting Oeste Park with the largest park in Madrid – Casa de Campo (1722 hectares). While traveling by cable car you can see beautiful panoramic views of Madrid. The cable car passes over the chapel of St. Anthony of Florida (18th century), where the paintings by Goya are preserved and where this great artist is buried. The Casa de Campo park was laid out in the 16th century by order of Philip II and for a long time served as a place for hunting and recreation for members of the royal family. Today, the park has an amusement park, a zoo with an aquarium, tennis courts and a swimming pool.

From other interesting areas of Madrid, the ancient quarter of La Latina stands out, located in the southwestern part of the city. Look out for the Puerta de Toledo here.. The current arch was built in the 19th century on the site of the destroyed city gates of the 15th century, which pointed the way to the ancient residence of the kings – the city of Toledo. Nearby is the largest open-air market in Madrid – El Rastro. Also located in La Latina is the Church of St. Francis the Great. The church was built in the 18th century in the classical style. The dome of the church, whose diameter is 33 m, is truly striking. Some of the interior murals of the church were made by Goya. Previously, the Church of St. Francis the Great was the national pantheon, that is, many prominent Spaniards were buried here.

In the northern part of Madrid, along Castellana Boulevard, stretches the so-called “business” district with many office buildings and skyscrapers, the height of which exceeds 100 m. Here are such symbols of Madrid as the towers of Puerta de Europa (“Gateway to Europe”), which stand at an angle on both sides of the boulevard Castellana, forming the symbolic gates, Torre Picasso and Torre Espacio, as well as the Santiago Barnabeu stadium – the home arena of the Real Madrid football club.

In the eastern part of Madrid there is another symbol of the city – the Las Ventas bullring. This is the third largest bullfighting arena in the world, it can accommodate up to 25,000 spectators. The building of the arena itself is very beautiful, it is made in the neo-Moorish style. Inside there is a Bullfighting Museum.

Fans of shopping and nightlife should go to the Glorieta de Bilbao crossroads, where the main shopping streets of Madrid converge – Fuencarral, Carranza, Luciana and Sagasta.

On the southeastern outskirts of Madrid is the Faunia Natural Park, where about 3,500 animals are represented. The park consists of many themed areas where you can see animals from African forests, polar ecosystems, jungles, humid temperate forests, all kinds of reptiles and insects, cave dwellers, nocturnal animals, and livestock. Performances of sea lions, seals and fur seals are given in the pools of the park. Visitors are offered several restaurants and cafes and souvenir shops.

Around Madrid, within 50 km, there are many interesting historical and cultural attractions. Near the northern outskirts of the capital is the Royal Palace of El Pardo. The construction of the royal residence began in the 15th century under King Enrique III. Members of the royal family rested and hunted here. In the 20th century, the royal residence became the favorite residence of the Spanish dictator Francisco Franco, and today it is used to receive foreign guests. The palace has preserved works by such famous artists as Goya, Bayeu, Flandes, Ribrera and a collection of furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries. The royal residence is surrounded by picturesque gardens and a vast protected forest. Nearby is the ZarzuelaPalace – one of the residences of the current reigning king of Spain. Juan Carlos I.

According to rctoysadvice, 35 km northeast of Madrid is the birthplace of the Spanish writer Cervantes and the founding place of one of the oldest universities in Europe – the city of Alcala de Henares (Alcala de Henares). The central part of the city is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The remains of the city walls, which began to be erected in the 13th century, have been preserved here, and ancient buildings are located on narrow cobbled streets. The main square of the city bears the name of its famous native – Cervantes Square. In the center of the square there is a monument to Cervantes, and along its perimeter there is a chapel, the City Hall, the Comedy Theater, as well as restaurants and shops. A visit to the city is not complete without visiting the Cervantes House Museum. This is the house where the writer was born and lived for several years. In front of the entrance to the museum there is a sculptural composition representing Don Quixote and Sancho Panza sitting on a bench. The premises of the museum are decorated in the style of the 16th and 17th centuries and reflect the life of that time. In addition, every year in Alcala de Henares, a carnival is held in honor of Cervantes on October 9, and on April 23, the day of his death, the National Literature Prize is awarded. Another symbol of the city is the University, which was founded in 1499 by Cardinal Cisneros. Such prominent Spaniards as Lope de Vega, Antonio de Nebrija, Francisco Quevedo, Pedro Calderon de la Barca and Tirso de Molina studied here. The university campus in the Middle Ages consisted of 40 buildings (colleges), several chapels and even monasteries, where the monks who taught here lived. Only about two dozen buildings have survived to this day. In connection with the decline of the city in 1836, the University was moved to Francisco Quevedo, Pedro Calderón de la Barca and Tirso de Molina. The university campus in the Middle Ages consisted of 40 buildings (colleges), several chapels and even monasteries, where the monks who taught here lived. Only about two dozen buildings have survived to this day. In connection with the decline of the city in 1836, the University was moved to Francisco Quevedo, Pedro Calderón de la Barca and Tirso de Molina. The university campus in the Middle Ages consisted of 40 buildings (colleges), several chapels and even monasteries, where the monks who taught here lived. Only about two dozen buildings have survived to this day. In connection with the decline of the city in 1836, the University was moved to Madrid, and only in 1977, in several old University buildings, education was resumed again. Most of the buildings are located on College Street. Other sights of the city include the Cathedral, which was built in the 12th century in the Gothic style and was rebuilt more than once, and the Archbishop’s Palace, which was built in the period from the 13th to the 16th centuries (it was here that the first meeting of Queen Isabella the Catholic and Christopher Columbus took place, on which discussed the financing of his expeditions).

Landmarks in Madrid, Spain

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Sortavala, Russia https://www.ezinereligion.com/sortavala-russia.html Fri, 24 Jun 2022 12:51:35 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1517 Read More »]]> According to printerhall, Sortavala is the second tourist center of Karelia, because it is from it that excursions around the Valaam archipelago begin . Sortavala is located 42 km from the archipelago. Tourist boats and boats run from here to Valaam. The very path from Sortavala to Valaam is a whole excursion, during which you can see small islands covered with forests, sheer cliffs, bays, straits and inter-island lakes. Local sunsets of extraordinary beauty will remain forever in memory. The Valaam archipelago is one of the most popular attractions in Russia, where the historical and cultural heritage of the country is presented.

In the city of Sortavala there are many attractions. Lappäjärvi Bay divides the city into two parts – northern and southern. They are interconnected by the Karelian bridge. The construction of the bridge ended in 1931, at the time it was the longest bridge in Finland. The historical center of the city is located in the northern part of the city, the pier is also located here, from where they go to Valaam. In the southern part of the Old Town, not far from the Karelian Bridge, is the triangular Väinämöinen Square. The city hall (1907), the Finnish Bank (1915) and a monument to the rune singer Petri Shemeikka are located on the square. The bronze sculpture by Petri Shemeikke was installed in 1935 on the centenary of the first edition of the Kalevala epic. Kalevala – Karelian-Finnish poetic epic, which links together folk songs – runes. Karelskaya Street originates from Väinämöinen Square, on which most of the architectural sights of the Old Town of the 19th and 20th centuries are located. Toward the end of Karelskaya Street stands the Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker. The church was built in 1873 with the money of the merchants Eliseevs and became one of the first stone buildings in the city. Among the oldest buildings in the northern part of Sortavala, one can also single out the buildings of the former City Administration, which now houses the library (1885), the former lyceum (1901) and the former house of the People’s Bank (1905). On Komsomolskaya Street, the Exhibition Hall of Kronid Alexandrovich Gogolev, one of the few masters of relief woodcarving in Russia, is interesting known all over the world. Of the architectural sights of the southern part, the buildings of the former seminary (1880), the Hospital (1898) and the former hospital of the society of sisters of mercy (1907) stand out. The Regional Museum and Tourist Center of the Northern Ladoga Region is also located here. The museum was founded in 1992 and became the first museum in the Northern Ladoga region. Nowadays, ethnographic, artistic and historical collections are presented here. Museum objects date from the 13th century to the present day. 3 km from Sortavala in Taruniemi is Dr. Winter’s dacha, which today houses an elite hotel. South of Sortavala on the island of Riekkalansari, the wooden church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker has been preserved. It was built between the 18th and 19th centuries and was the only Orthodox church in the vicinity of the city.

To the north of Sortavala, just a few kilometers from the city, near the village of Helyulya, one of the most interesting archaeological sites of the Northern Ladoga region is located – the Karelian fortified settlement of Paaso. Paaso Fortress was built in the 12th century on the 83 m high Paasonvuori mountain to protect against attacks by the Swedes. In the 13th century, for unknown reasons, the settlement was wiped off the face of the Earth. On the site of the settlement, archaeologists have found objects of agriculture, pottery and jewelry crafts that are about a thousand years old.

17 km north of Sortavala on the river Tohmajoki there are picturesque Ruskeala waterfalls. They are small rapids with a height difference of about 2 m. The highest waterfall is the Ryumäkoski waterfall, 7 m high. In the vicinity of the waterfalls, there is a small lake and many boulders brought by the glacier. The Tohmajoki River together with the Janisjoki River are one of the main tourist attractions of the Sortavala region. They originate in Finland and flow into Ladoga. There are many rapids and low waterfalls on these rivers, which attract rafting enthusiasts here. Ruskeala village is located not far from the Ruskeala waterfalls.. It is first mentioned in Swedish documents under 1500. The village has long been known for its marble deposits. Even the Swedes in the 17th century were mining it here. Ruskeala marble was used in the decoration of the Kazan and St. Isaac’s Cathedrals in St. Petersburg. Currently, along the left bank of the Tokhmajoki River, three open pit mines have been formed in place of old workings. The quarries are cut by a system of mines, galleries and drifts and are partially flooded with water. In 2005, “Ruskeala Mountain Park” was founded on this site.. The central place in the park is occupied by the Marble Canyon, surrounded by sheer marble cliffs. Along its perimeter there is a hiking trail with viewing platforms from where you can admire the emerald water of the canyon. In addition, boats are offered here in order to swim around the quarry. Marble Canyon will be interesting for diving enthusiasts. Underwater visibility here is about 10 m, the depth of immersion ranges from 5 to 15 m. At the bottom of the quarry, you can see blocks of marble, trucks and wheels and explore numerous adits. On the territory of the park there are several monuments of industrial architecture – this is an old office building made of marble in the style of classicism, and lime kilns. There is an active quarry in the park, where you can get acquainted with the process of marble extraction.

If you go even further north to the Russian-Finnish border, then you will get to the international checkpoint “Vyartsilya”. Through it passes the road to the Scandinavian countries, which is called the “Blue Road”.

20 km east of Sortavala in the direction of Petrozavodsk, the village of Kiryavalahti is interesting., which is located on the shores of the eponymous bay of Lake Ladoga. Here is an architectural monument – the dacha of the pharmacist Jaskeläinen. It was built in 1935 by a Finnish architect at the foot of a cliff. From the rear, the cottage is surrounded by dense coniferous forests, and its facade overlooks the bay. The interior of the house is very beautiful. The walls here are made of black logs, the ceiling is decorated with matt beams, there is an old fireplace, and a monumental staircase leads to the second floor. Today, Jaskeläinen’s dacha is used as a hotel. Behind it, a little to the north, on the shore of Lake Haukkajärvi, Mount Petsivaara rises . This is the highest point of the Northern Ladoga region (187 m). Hiking trails are laid on the mountain, and a beautiful view opens from its top.

Sortavala region is known for its unique nature. This is the land of small bays, islands, cliffs, waterfalls, lakes and forests. The rocky islands of the region, one of which are the islands of the Valaam archipelago, are called Ladoga skerries. This is a unique natural area formed by the action of a glacier. Now projects are being developed to create a national park “Ladoga Skerries”. Many species of fish live in the waters of Lake Ladoga, the most valuable of which are salmon – salmon, trout, grayling, pike perch and whitefish, which attracts fishing enthusiasts. To the south of the Sortavala region is the Lakhdenpokh region which is also famous for nature. However, local skerries and coastal cliffs are better known among lovers of wild and extreme tourism, official tourist routes do not pass through the area.

Sortavala, Russia 2

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Cuisine of Azerbaijan https://www.ezinereligion.com/cuisine-of-azerbaijan.html Fri, 17 Jun 2022 01:56:24 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1514 Read More »]]> KITCHEN

According to petwithsupplies, Azerbaijani cuisine is considered to be one of the most original culinary traditions of the world. Based on the centuries-old traditions of the peoples inhabiting this country, and on numerous borrowings from Arabic, Georgian, Persian and other cuisines, it is deservedly famous for its original dishes. The main feature of the local cuisine is the wide use of lamb, a huge amount of spices, herbs, vegetables and fruits (including dried ones), fat tail fat, a large number of dishes from sour milk and herbs. At the same time, in different regions of the country, even such traditional dishes as barbecue or pilaf are cooked in their own way. Azerbaijani cuisine is known for the abundance of vegetables in all forms, primarily greens, eggplants, sweet peppers (bieber), green beans, etc. Fresh vegetable salads are almost always on the table, moreover, vegetables are usually cut very finely and richly seasoned with herbs, sour-milk products, vegetable oil and various sauces. At the same time, local chefs actively use various marinades and pickles. Noteworthy are “kyukyu” (a mixture of various types of greens and vegetables, beaten with an egg and fried), “fisinjan” from beans, pickled and stuffed tomatoes and peppers, potato shish kebab, eggplant shish kebab, eggplant chihyrtma, radish salad and vegetables “bahar”, dishes of boiled beans with herbs and walnuts – “fasinjan” and “lobi”, as well as numerous vegetable side dishes, which are in fact complex salads that accompany most dishes. At the same time, “abgora” (juice of unripe grapes), “azgil-sharab” are used as additives to many dishes. (medlar extract), “albukhara” (dried plum of a special variety), “mountain” (unripe grapes), “doshab” or “dushab” (boiled grape or mulberry juice), “narsharab” (pomegranate juice), “cornel- akhata” (dried cornelian fruit), “sumac” (the rind of the fruit of a shrub of the sumac family) and other rather unusual ingredients.

Local soups are so thick and rich that they often replace a full-fledged second course on the table. It is worth trying “turshu-syyig” (green cabbage soup), “ovdukh” (a kind of okroshka), “balva” (soup of rice, flour, butter, herbs and eggs), “sulu-khingal” (mutton broth with peas and dumplings), “shorba” (soup of rice, peas and fruits in meat broth), a thick soup “khash” well known to all Caucasian peoples (” (fried lamb with vegetables), “turach” (fried game), “kashkaldaki”, “azmya” (fried minced liver with spices), “soyutma” (cold boiled lamb with tomatoes and herbs), “piti” (stewed with lamb with saffron and other spices), “dushbara” (kind of small dumplings boiled in bone broth), “guimya” (fried minced meat with raisins and dried apricots), “kutab” (kind of fried pies with meat or herbs), “dyushpara” (small meat balls in dough), etc. Many meat dishes are served with sheep cheese, cottage cheese and sour-milk products. The long sea coast causes an abundance of fish and seafood dishes on the tables – fish stuffed in Azerbaijani style, fish (“kutum”) fried in a tandoor (a special type of open oven), stuffed fish “kutum lavengi”, fish dolma, salad “khazar” (salmon, sturgeon and caviar with a variety of herbs and vegetables), vegetable salad with red caviar, various dishes with caviar sturgeon and simply fried fish with a variety of local spices. All dishes are served with “churek” (bread made from white flour) and all kinds of lavash.

Sweets and flour products, unlike other eastern countries, are used here much less frequently, although you can’t refuse local chefs in the art of their preparation – “kozinaki”, “sheker-bura”, “nogul”, “goz halva”, “bakhlava”, “shaker-churek”, “shaker-bura”, “shaker-pendir”, “kurabye”, “nan”, “nogul bitmish”, “Ordubad roll”, “kata”, “tel” (terkhalva), “tykhma”, “kulcha”, “parvarda”, “girmabadam”, “mutaki”, “peshvenk”, “feshmek”, all kinds of Turkish delight and other sweets, widely known outside the country. The local preserves and jams are also very good. Tea in Azerbaijan is drunk always and everywhere! It is served to guests before a meal, they while away the time and have a conversation in a teahouse, they also finish the feast. At the same time, not only traditional black tea is popular, but also various types of this drink with the addition of cardamom, thyme, rose water, cinnamon, ginger, etc. Also, one of the national drinks is sherbet (an infusion of berries, citrus fruits and other fruits with all kinds of additives, herbs, ice and sugar). Black coffee (usually prepared in an oriental way) and excellent local mineral water (Badamly, Turshu-su, Isti-su, Sirab, Darydag, etc.) are popular. Azerbaijani wines, cognacs and brandies are famous for their excellent quality (local varieties “bayan-shiraz”, “tabrizi”, “tavkveri”, “ag-shans”, “gara-shans”, etc. are equally well suited for making light wines, as well as and for spirits). Original “dosha” (weak grape-mulberry syrup), “narsharab” (pomegranate juice syrup) and other drinks.

Cuisine of Azerbaijan

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Information About Sikkim, India https://www.ezinereligion.com/information-about-sikkim-india.html Thu, 09 Jun 2022 17:27:37 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1512 Read More »]]> CLIMATE

According to handbagpicks, Sikkim is located at the latitude of North Africa, Florida and Mexico (27-28), however, due to the high-altitude, rugged landscape, all natural and climatic zones are represented in the state, with the exception of the tropical.

The river valleys (up to 2 thousand meters above sea level) are characterized by a humid monsoon climate. Most of the territory of Sikkim is located in the temperate zone (1800-4000 m above sea level).

NATURE

In the valleys near rivers and streams, vegetation of the subtropical zone is found: palm trees, acacias, cypresses, laurel, balsams, bananas, bamboo, giant ferns and orchids. The slopes of the mountains here are covered with dense forests. The lower part is dominated by chestnut, Himalayan evergreen oak, maple, poplar, ash, birch, weeping willow. There are many subtropical plants on the southern slopes. In the upper part of this belt, there are silver spruce, pine, larch, yew, juniper, rose bushes, yellow jasmine and rhodendron – the most common plant in the Himalayas. (In neighboring Nepal, its flower is considered a national symbol, which is written in the constitution of the kingdom.) In Sikkimthere are more than 40 species of rhododendron, among which stands out the giant, reaching 12 m Rhododendron argenteum with half a meter leaves and large bright flowers and an unusual epiphyte rhododendron (R.dalhousia), located on the branches of trees, most often oaks and magnolias.

The Alpine belt covers the slopes of the mountains and plateaus at an altitude of 4-5 thousand meters. Due to the cold climate, trees and shrubs give way to meadows here. Primrose (more than 40 species), dwarf rhododendron, edelweiss, buttercups, gentians grow in this zone. Above begins a lifeless ice belt: rocks, snow and ice. Glaciers originate from here, snow avalanches descend from here.

The fauna of Sikkim is poor, only a great variety of insects – more than 2 thousand species, including 600 species of butterflies. Musk deer, monkeys, snakes come across in the jungle, in the temperate zone there are quite a lot of birds – pheasants, mountain pigeons, flycatchers, red-legged crows. High in the mountains you can meet marmots, mountain sheep, rarely – brown Himalayan bears, but there are more birds – crows, pigeons, partridges, eagles.

Best time to visit

Sikkim is subject to the influence of the monsoons from June to the end of September. Therefore, there are two favorable seasons for visiting Sikkim: from early April to mid-May and from early October to mid-November. The pre-monsoon season is better for rhododendrons, however, in the second case, clear views of the mountain ranges. However, you must be prepared for severe weather conditions, such as snowstorms at high altitudes, which come on suddenly and attack rapidly in both periods.

HOW TO GET THERE

From Delhi – the capital of India and Srinagar – the capital of the state of Jamnu and Kashmir, planes fly to Le. In the off-season, flights are often delayed and rescheduled due to weather conditions. From Srinagar and Manali (cities in the foothills of the Himalayas) can be reached by road in jeeps (2 days) through passes of 4.500 and 5.300 m, respectively. The passes are cleared of snow in June and closed in September.

POPULATION

Despite the small population, Sikkim is distinguished by a motley ethnic composition and cannot be considered as a “linguistic state” typical of India.

There are 4 main ethnic groups. Changpa – the original inhabitants of these places, nomadic cattle breeders, breed yaks, sheep and goats. Most of them still live in black yak-wool tents, rising to the edge of the glaciers in summer. The Mon are former nomads, mostly converted to agriculture. In the Indus Valley – the central and largest valley of Ladakh – representatives of the gorse people live – they cultivate irrigated fields and gardens. In the west of Ladakh, closer to Kashmir, the majority of the population are Baltis – immigrants from Central Asia, who in ancient times drove caravans along the Great Silk Road. In addition, in the valleys previously cut off from the world, many small nationalities live among them – European-looking people who consider themselves descendants of the soldiers of the army of Alexander the Great. After 1959, refugees from Chinese Tibet settled in Ladakh. Recently, many immigrants from southern India have appeared in Ladakh. Each of the nationalities speaks its own language, as well as Tibetan and Hindi. Many, and among people who deal with tourists, the vast majority, speak English.

TRADITIONS AND RELIGION

Ladakh is unique in its lively Buddhist culture, which has more than 1000 years of continuous development. At present, most of the monasteries belong to the Gelug school, there are monasteries of the Nyingma and Kagyu directions.

MONEY

Indian rupees. There are no restrictions on the import of foreign currency, but when you import more than $2,500 (or its equivalent in another currency), you must declare them. It is better to change money in Delhi, in Le the rate is much lower. There are currency exchange offices right at the airport, with many foreign and commercial banks. In the summer of 2000, the exchange rate was about Rs 42.7 per $1. When exchanging money and for change, do not take torn and very dirty banknotes – they may not be accepted from you elsewhere. By the way, banknotes with a torn edge are considered torn in India, holes in the center are normal – they are obtained from paper clips that seal money in bundles.

ACCOMMODATION

In Le – the capital of Ladakh – you can stay in hotels of different levels, from the simplest ones – often it’s just a room in a private house – to quite European 3-star hotels. In other cities and stops along the route, there are only very simple guest-houses or tent camps.

FOOD

As elsewhere in India, Ladakh has many restaurants with Indian, Chinese and European cuisine, but Tibetan cuisine can be considered a feature of Ladakh. Traditional dishes are momo and takpa. Momo is an analogue of dumplings with a variety of fillings, boiled and fried. Takpa – soup with vermicelli, meat and vegetables. Tibetan tea and bread.

ATTRACTIONS

The Royal Palace in Le is the forerunner of the famous Potala in Lhasa. Monasteries in the vicinity of Le – Tsemo, Sankar, Stakna, Tiksi, Taktok and Hemis. Summer Palace of the Kings of Ladakh in Shey. Monastery and museum with the jewels of the royal family in Stoke. Ancient monasteries in Lamayuri, Likira and Alchi. The monasteries belong to different schools of Tibetan Buddhism, they keep sculptural and pictorial images of the Buddha and bodhisattvas, and are decorated with magnificent frescoes. Unique alpine landscape.

HOLIDAYS

Practically in all monasteries several times a year dances of monks in masks are arranged, symbolizing the victory of Buddhism over ignorance and dedicated to the guardian spirits of the monastery. Holiday dates vary due to tied to the Tibetan lunar calendar.

LEISURE

Many trekking routes of varying degrees of difficulty and duration – from walks in the vicinity of Le to expeditions to the Zanskar valleys lost between the ridges.

Sikkim, India

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Georgia Archaeology https://www.ezinereligion.com/georgia-archaeology.html Fri, 03 Jun 2022 14:10:51 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1502 Read More »]]> ARCHAEOLOGY

From the Dmanisi site come finds of extraordinary importance for paleoanthropological studies: there were in fact found fossil remains, dating back to 1.8 million years ago, of a hominid characterized by lower limbs of a modern type and by encephalization quotient, body aspect and many morphologies of the more archaic species of Homo erectus.

According to computerdo, Georgia is very important archaeologically because, due to the abundant mines, the civilization of metals was widespread here starting from the second half of the 3rd millennium BC Art objects made in the 2nd millennium BC came to light in the course of several excavations. Noteworthy are the bronze axes and, later, the iron ornaments, of which the Greeks believed the Calibis, residents of Colchis, to be the inventors. Excavations have provided traces of Greek settlements near Suhumi (Dioscuriade), of Očiamčira (Gyenos) and, moreover, of the ancient Fasi, near the mouth of the homonymous river (or port of Poti); Walls near the od. It’s evening. Very interesting is the site of Vani, where the most consistent examples of architectural structures were discovered (walls with semicircular and polygonal towers, two sacred areas, a circular temple, an altar) dating from the 3rd to the 1st century. B.C; moreover, from Vani comes a large number of very elegant gold and silver objects dating back to the 5th century. BC, strongly influenced by Greek, Achaemenid and oriental prototypes. The excavation of some burial grounds has shown how local customs coexist with Greek influence. Local iron processing is important. It is thought that in the series of ceramic basins found along the coast the waters of rivers or the sea were retained to extract iron from the deposit of their sands; the fusion then took place in the mountain areas. There are agricultural tools (axes, hoes, plowshares) and weapons (spade tips, javelins, arrows, axes). Also important is the local production of amphorae (a single type with three subclasses) dating from the 4th century. BC to 2nd AD The excavations of the residences of the nobility, that is administrative centers, reveal a social polarization and ownership of the local society, which manifests itself in the funeral rites: on the one hand simple pits with a very scarce set of ornaments and vases of terracotta, on the other hand burials in large wooden sarcophagi, accompanied by servants and horses, a large quantity of silverware and goldsmithing.

ART AND ARCHITECTURE

Between 5th and 7th sec. the religious architecture shows variants of the basilica type (Bolnisi, basilica of Sion, 5th century, with three naves, projecting apse; Zigani, basilica, 7th century, with three rooms) and of the type with a central plan with a dome set on trumpets: from the cathedral of Ninozminda (late 6th century, four apses connected by quadrangular double apsed niches), to the sanctuary of the Cross (Djvari) of Mzcheta which has tripartite facades on the outside, to the church of Zromi with a dome supported by four free pillars. The construction technique reaches a high level with careful chromatic choice of materials. After the Arab domination, architecture continues its line of development in buildings with a central plan with important innovations (domes set on plumes), elongated western arm, accentuated verticality, interior spaces unified by pictorial decoration, rich sculptural decoration on the outside: Alaverni cathedral (11th-15th century), St. Nicholas, Kintsvisi monastery (13th century), Transfiguration church, Zarzma monastery (14th century) etc. There are important testimonies in the field of miniature, as well as in that of enamels and goldsmithing, from the millenary tradition (triptych of Khakhuli, 8th-12th century; tondo from Gelati, 11th century, Tbilisi, Georgian Art Museum).

At the beginning of the 19th century, incorporated into the Russian Empire, Georgia opens up to European influence with architecture touched first by neoclassicism and then by eclecticism. In the Soviet period a constructivist vein was identified, but after 1940 an uncritical use of classicism prevailed. Since the 1970s there have been reinterpretations of avant-garde architecture (in Tbilisi: Philharmonic, 1971; Ministry of the streets, 1975; Palazzo dei Matrimoni, 1985; etc.). Realism and patriotic subjects characterize the official works in the Soviet period: M. Berdzeniǧvili and E. Amaǧukeli, authors of monumental sculptures;Z. Tsereteli, sculptor, mosaicist and author of enamels. Landscape painting, portraiture and, above all, book illustration and scenography, expressions of the best artistic production in Georgia since the beginning of the 20th century. (D. Ǧevardnadze; V. Sidamon-Eristavi; D. Kakabadze; K. Magalaǧvili;LD Gudiaǧvili), continue to have a leading role with R. Tarkhan-Mouravi, author of graphic series on traditional songs and games; A. Bandzeladze, portrait painter and illustrator; Z. Nižaradze, author of portraits and genre scenes; K. Ignatov, author of great compositions and sets. The opening to new means of expression is manifested above all from the 1990s: Georgia Alexi-Meskhiǧvili, M. Japaridze.

Georgia Country Archaeology

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Palestine Recent History https://www.ezinereligion.com/palestine-recent-history.html Fri, 27 May 2022 08:12:17 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1500 Read More »]]> The proclamation of the Palestinian state. On November 15, 1988, according to cellphoneexplorer, the Palestinian National Council proclaimed the State of Palestine (with Jerusalem as its capital) and in December ‛Arafat explicitly recognized Israel before the UN General Assembly; by mid-1989 the state of Palestine (of which ‛Arafat was elected president) had been recognized by over 90 nations. These developments were followed, since 1989, by repeated peace initiatives, but these continued to clash with the hostility of Tel Aviv. The situation was unlocked only when Israel and the PLO finally reached mutual recognition and signed a Declaration of Principles in Washington (Oslo accords, 13 September 1993)which established that through numerous stages, in a period of time not exceeding 5 years, coexistence between the two peoples in two different states should have been achieved, on the basis of the principle of restitution of the occupied territories to the Palestinian representation in exchange for peace. According to the lines of a new agreement, signed on September 28, 1995 in Washington by ‛Arafat and I. Rabin, the West Bank was divided like a patch into three types of zones: zone A, under Palestinian control; zone B, under joint Israeli-Palestinian control; zone C, under Israeli control. In April 1996 the Palestinian National Council approved the elimination of all passages in the Palestinian National Charter relating to the destruction of Israel. Only in January 1997, however, Partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from Hebron was carried out, but the overall deterioration of Israeli-Palestinian relations effectively led to a suspension of the peace process. The continuing blockade of the negotiation process favored a further growth of the Islamic opposition, expressed in particular by the fundamentalist political movement Hamas. A significant turning point came, in October 1998, with the opening in Wye Plantation (Maryland) of a negotiation between ‛Arafat, B. Netanyahu and B. Clinton, and with the participation of King Husain of Jordan, which concluded the October 23 at the White House with the official signing of a Memorandum. In 1999 ‛Arafat and the new Israeli Prime Minister E. Barak signed an agreement to relaunch the peace process, pledging to end the negotiations by September 2000, the date on which the passage of about 40% of the territories of the West Bank under full or partial control of the Palestinian National Authority (PNA). The new stalemate, caused by the expansion of Jewish settlements in the West Bank and the increasing use of violence by Hamas, resulted in yet another shift in the Israeli withdrawal calendar. In 2000, the failure of the Camp David negotiations between Israel and the PNA delegation brought to light the ever greater distance between the parties and the strong ambiguities that were never cleared up in the whole negotiation.

The resumption of hostilities. At the end of September 2000, the second intifada, known as al-Aqsa, broke out in Jerusalem. The revolt was severely suppressed by the Israeli government. During 2001 the living conditions of the population of the territories continued to worsen and intensified, after the formation of the national unity government of the leader Likud A. Sharon, Israeli military retaliatory actions. After the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in New York and Wash; ington, the level of confrontation between Israelis and Palestinians increased again and the suicide attacks by Palestinian terrorists against Israeli civilians multiplied. In 2002 the Palestinian territories, repeatedly closed and occupied by the Israeli army during 2001, were overrun by bulldozers and tanks. After a temporary withdrawal of Israeli troops, by the end of June 2002 almost all the cities of the West Bank had been re-occupied or surrounded, while an intervention by US President GW Bush conditioned the birth of the Palestinian state to the renewal of its leadership. In the period 2002-06 Israel (which unilaterally evicted the Gaza Strip in August 2005) built a protective wall against terrorism that was supposed to follow the borders established by the UN in 1967, but which in fact carries out large incursions into Palestinian territory. Abu Mazen, who came to power (2005) after the death of ‛Arafat (2004), was unable to prevent the electoral victory of Hamas (2006), responsible for an exacerbation of the conflict with Israel, which provoked the incursion of the army in the Gaza Strip, and a real civil war with al-Fatah in the streets of Gaza. The formation of a government of national solidarity led by I. Haniyeh did not help to restore peace between the two factions and in June 2007 the Palestine split in two: the West Bank under the control of Abu Mazen and al-Fatah, and the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip. As the launch of missiles from Gaza to Israel continued, the Israeli government responded with repeated air strikes, the closure of all borders and the blocking of supplies and finally, between December 2008 and January 2009, with military occupation. The peace talks between Abu Mazen and theIsraeli Prime Minister B. Netanyahu resumed after a few months with the mediation of the United States, but amid persistent resistance from both interlocutors.

Palestine Recent History

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Holidays in Abkhazia https://www.ezinereligion.com/holidays-in-abkhazia.html Fri, 20 May 2022 08:19:14 +0000 https://www.ezinereligion.com/?p=1492 Read More »]]> Literally 30 years ago, many tourists, both from Russia and from all over the world, dreamed of a vacation in Abkhazia. Then her popularity faded to almost nothing, but now she is gradually returning. Indeed, how can you not love the clean laser Black Sea coast, Abkhazian wine and the wonderful nature of this country?

Inexpensive tours, lack of borders, a good hotel base and infrastructure improving every year – all this attracts more and more Russian tourists to Abkhazia.

How to get to Abkhazia

How to get to Abkhazia by train

From Moscow to Sukhumi can be reached by direct train in 41 hours 43 minutes. You can also get to Adler from any major city and from there get to Sukhumi by bus or commuter train. Twice a day, an electric train from Sochi travels to Sukhumi, a ticket for which costs 170 rubles.

By plane

Airplanes do not fly directly to Abkhazia – you can only fly to Sochi, and from there take a bus to Abkhazia.

By bus or taxi

Buses to Sukhumi and other cities of Abkhazia travel from Sochi, Adler, Rostov-on-Don, Krymsk, Krasnodar, Volgograd and Moscow. For 150 rubles from Adler you can get to the border with Abkhazia, and from there on local minibuses for 50-100 rubles to Gagra or Sukhum.

You can take a taxi from Adler or Sochi, but it will cost about 3.5 thousand. It is better to take a taxi to Sukhum on the border of Abkhazia – it will cost only 1200-1500 rubles.

On water

In summer, from the sea pier of Adler, in 1.5 hours you can swim to the port of Gagra on a catamaran. The fare is 500 rubles.

It is most profitable to travel to Abkhazia on last-minute tours that you can pick up here.

Transport

According to toppharmacyschools.org, transport in Abkhazia is represented mainly by buses and fixed-route taxis. Buses, minibuses and trolleybuses run regularly only in Sukhum, there are several routes in the areas of Pitsunda and Gagra. The network of private taxis is very developed, a trip around Sukhumi will cost about 100 rubles. Garuda Express is considered the best taxi service – they have a wide fleet of vehicles, and you can get to any settlements in Abkhazia.

IMPORTANT: There is no official car rental in Abkhazia.

Information about transport.

Currency of Abkhazia

If we talk about money in Abkhazia, then it is mostly Russian rubles that are used here. In some places they accept dollars and euros, but the exchange rate is very unfavorable. Often, counterfeit banknotes can be handed over at exchange offices. There may also be problems with withdrawing money from a card or paying with a card, so it’s best to just bring cash in rubles with you.

Shopping in Abkhazia

Shops in Abkhazia are not something worth striving for here. There are no large shopping centers, salons and boutiques. There are large stores only in Sukhum, and in other cities everyone buys in small shops and markets. All equipment and clothes are delivered here through Russia, so it only costs more. But it is quite possible to walk around the local markets in search of wine, mountain honey and natural products.

IMPORTANT: It is better to buy goods in the back rows, or right before closing – this way you can save a lot.

As souvenirs from Abkhazia they bring:

  • Adjika is a spicy aromatic spice. It costs from 100 rubles, you can buy almost anywhere;
  • Homemade cheeses. They cost from 300 rubles, although they are not stored for a very long time;
  • Spices. They cost from 100 rubles. They say that they are better here than here in Russia;
  • Chachu is a traditional strong alcohol made from grapes. It costs from 500 rubles;
  • Tea. It costs from 100 rubles, and has an interesting taste;
  • Cezva, or Turku. Vessel for brewing coffee. It costs from 200 rubles;
  • Daggers. Beautifully designed would make a great gift. They cost from a thousand rubles, but it is important to buy not real weapons, but replicas so that they are not taken away at the border;
  • Shell jewelry. They cost from 150 rubles;
  • Churchkhela is a national sweet made from walnuts. It costs on the market from 50 rubles.

Cuisine of Abkhazia

The national cuisine of Abkhazia is represented by meat, hominy, boiled beans, tart sauces and other products. And you should definitely try them during your trip. Just keep in mind that the dishes are often spicy and smoky, so your stomach may not like them.

Hominy is a traditional flour dish made from cornmeal. It resembles porridge with various additives, for example, sour cream or cheese. A lot of people in Abkhazia eat adjika, adding it to various products. An important role is played by dairy products – most often they use sour goat, cow and buffalo milk, cheeses, etc. And many people really like khachapuri – tortillas with cheese. Meat in Abkhazia is cooked over hot coals and served with spicy sauce and onions. You should also try Akud – boiled beans.

Restaurants in Abkhazia mostly look like apatsha – a traditional building, which is an important part of the Abkhazian estate. Dishes are cooked there right in the presence of guests, on an open fire.

Reviews about the rest in Abkhazia

In general, people respond positively to the review in Abkhazia, they note a very good sea and beaches, and pleasant hotels and boarding houses. There are sporadic negative reviews of bad accommodations, but these are usually associated with very cheap guest houses. So be sure to read the reviews before you book a place to stay.

There are also negative reviews about the country itself, for example, many do not like high prices in stores. The attitude of the locals is also not always encouraging – some do not like Russians, they often try to deceive tourists in the markets. But if you just check into a hotel and relax on the beach, sometimes visiting sights, then you can have a pretty good time. Moreover, the water is really very clean, and the nature is wonderful.

Advantages and disadvantages of rest in Abkhazia

Tourist specialists have been eyeing Abkhazia for a long time, so they highlighted the main pros and cons of a trip to Abkhazia.

Pros

  • Inexpensive tours and accommodation;
  • The opportunity to relax even without a passport;
  • Very clean sea;
  • Lack of crowds of tourists;
  • Unique nature;
  • Wide opportunities for therapeutic rest;
  • Interesting ancient sights;
  • No language barrier.

Cons

  • Not too developed infrastructure, especially on the beaches;
  • Accommodation conditions are not always good;
  • The local population is sometimes unfriendly to Russians (but this is rare, and is expressed only in words);
  • Not everyone likes the local cuisine;
  • There are no shopping opportunities.

IMPORTANT: So in general, Abkhazia is very well suited for a relaxing beach and sightseeing holiday with children. But lovers of noisy entertainment and shopping are unlikely to like it here.

Frequently asked questions about Abkhazia

Question: How is the border crossing?

A: Mostly simple, but often time consuming – at peak times it can take several hours. It is enough just to show the passport to the customs officer, often customs inspections are not even carried out. There are no financial fees.

Question: How to get to Abkhazia with a child?

Answer: Until the age of 14, you will need a birth certificate with a stamp or citizenship insert. Often it is enough that the certificate indicates that one parent is a citizen of the Russian Federation. From 14 to 18 you need a child’s passport and his certificate to establish kinship with parents. If the child travels without both parents, then their notarized consent is required. A child can travel on a foreign passport, but they will put a stamp on it, with which entry into Georgia will be problematic.

Question: How to get from the Adler railway station to other places?

Answer: By minibuses and buses, you can take the train early in the morning to Sukhum. There are taxi drivers, their services cost 100-150 rubles.

Question: Is it possible to come to Abkhazia by car?

Answer: Yes, you will need a license to enter. There are no special requirements for drivers. Traffic in the country is normal, there are paid parking near the sights. There are many gas stations, but it is better to refuel in Adler.

Question: How to book accommodation “savage”, not in a hotel?

Answer: The easiest way to do this is in the private sector – there are many offers on various sites on the Internet, everything is done online. You can take a chance and just come to the country, and then ask taxi drivers – usually they have information about who rents houses and rooms where.

Holidays in Abkhazia

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