In 1911 Hiram Bingham of Yale University rediscovered ancient Machu Picchu buried under four centuries of lush vegetation. Machu Picchu is located at almost 8,000 feet high in the Andes mountains outside of Cuzco, Peru and just above the town Aguas Calientes. Machu Picchu is full of mystery as no one knows exactly how it was built or why. Scholars claim that Machu Picchu was built around the year 1450 AD. The style of building found at Machu...more
Exploring Choquequirao takes about a two day's hike from the town of Cachora outside of Cuzco city. Choquequirao, or "cradle of gold" in the Inca language Quechua, is located almost 1750 meters above the raging Apurimac River. Much bigger than Machu Picchu, covering 1810 hectares, the site is thought to have been built by the son of Machu Picchu's creator.Choquequirao was probably built during the reign of the Inca king Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui....more
Baksheesh is the local term in Egypt for "Tipping" or "service"Tipping in Egypt may drain your pockets if you don't know how. As a foreigner to this enchanting land with seemingly endless instances wherein you are in need and was properly addressed, it is just fair to give ample amount to those helping hands. However, knowing the situation will keep you right on budget since not all services are necessary for an extra penny.Considering the fact that the average annual income for ordinary individuals in Egypt is only about $1500US a year (2006) and those who were not that blessed would only gain $40 a month, tipping or baksheesh would really make a difference in their day-to-day life. Definitely this issue might drain your pockets if you don't know how.As a tipping guideline in Egypt, it is best assumed to prepare at least $5-$10 per day for tipping. Here are the guidelines and suggestions for the right amount of tips or baksheesh to be given to those who have helping hands.AirportHere are some tipping guidelines upon arriving in Egypt via plane.Porter or skycap - The normal tip per bag is $2. But if you have more luggage, an extra 2$ would be fine. Curbside check-in tip is...more
It has been a well known fact that when you visit any place else in the world, may it be at your own locality, shopping is never out of the to-do list. You shop and it is out of the question why you do so. So, think about it, if you shop in your own locality, how much more when you are out of the country? A souvenir is a must and I am perfectly...more
Life in the modern and urban areas is becoming busier day after day. We find it hard to give ourselves a break together with our love ones. So for once in a blue moon, during holidays, an all inclusive family treat is big bang to escape the busy streets. This offer will not only keep us away from our work but also offers good bonding time to our...more
Way back in the 70's, holiday package normally cover meals and drinks. These holidays are all inclusive. On the early 80's, I spent my life working in Spain for a couple of years. When I returned to United Kingdom, I arrange my own travel, hotel accommodation and meals during holidays. From those days, I have taken an independent holiday in Spain and Balearic Islands.During 2004, my friends who have been to Antigua, invited us to join them for a summer outing at Coco Bay in Antigua. This holiday is an "all inclusive" family treat with Virgin. The holiday brings back memories to my last all inclusive holiday during the 70's. I had a great time and enjoyed the holiday so much. Starting that day, I recommend an "all inclusive" holiday treat which is more convenient and exciting.It is very hassle on planning an 'independent' holiday now a day. It would cost hundreds of pounds more just to the place. For example, on my part, I lived in Hertfordshire. I still need to go to Gatwick London late in the early in the morning and get hotel accommodation for a tomorrow's flight to US or the Caribbean which would cost me an extra pound which is very impractical now a day.I recommend 'all...more
Egypt is a land rich in history and culture, with a vast area of geographical attractions that makes the country more intriguing to tourists all over the world. These attraction where known since the ancient times, since the time when slavery was...more
Egypt, a country famous for its ancient history and fascinating culture, is indeed a very wonderful place to visit. Known for its intriguing archaeological riches, friendly hospitable customs and artistic traditions, who would not want to visit the...more
Egypt is a country that can mainly be found in North Africa. The country borders the Red Sea (east), Sudan (south), Libya (west), Mediterranean Sea (north) and the Gaza Strip and Israel (north east). It covers an area of about 1,010,000 square...more
Egypt, known for its vast desert, has another thing to offer aside from its majestic pyramids and museums - it is no other than the Camel Market which is found in Giza. The market is situated near the valley of Nile particularly in Burkash. This is...more
The most populous city in Australia, Sydney, should be on your to-go list when you decide to get yourself an Australian tourist visa. Its most famous tourist attractions include the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. It does not matter whether you...more
Surely, Australia is the smallest continent and can be described by many other superlatives. It is known as the flattest continent as well as the driest inhabited continent. To counter these implausible descriptions, this country and continent is the...more