THAILAND -‘It all begins with the people’

I was lucky enough to explore this unknown and fascinating aspect of this ‘Land of Smiles’ in the recently held FAM trip by TAT.

It all started with the warm welcome aboard their flag carrier Thai Airways as they greeted us ‘Sawatdee’ in that lilting polyphonic Thai language. I felt this true hospitality right at the start of my journey which made it much more rewarding and memorable.

After a short 4 hrs 30 mins direct flight we landed at the gargantuan Suvarnabhumi International Airport. Apt to its name, this spic and span airport is very well organized and efficient as it serves as a major hub to their national carrier and other South East Asian regions. Embedded with gold, the airport has got many murals and Thai mythological depictions which narrate their culture. One gets to see Thai craftsmanship right on arrival…Simply breathtaking !!!

I did the Visa on Arrival as had heard and read a lot that is it done swiftly and efficiently. So yes, as experienced now, it did go out well without any hassle. It merely took around 20 mins for all the procedure to complete and we were done.

  

Our tour guide Mr Joie (Rajesh Khanna fan and look-alike) was anticipating our arrival and whoa, we were very warmly received by him. His amicable approach made us feel at ease and that was the start of our fabulous 5 day trip.

Apart from the regular visited places common amongst Indian travelers like Safari World, Dream World, Chao Phraya cruise etc. etc. we were lucky enough to experience the new attractions in Bangkok like Art in Paradise (aka Trick Art museum in others countries), Muay Thai stage show, Thai spa and massage (part of their unique culture), Asiatique-The riverfront and many others.

I was overwhelmed to see the genuinity and warmth of Thai people wherever we went in those 5 days, as they always ensured that their guests are at ease even if one doesn’t speak their language. They are loyal and honest and carry their task efficiently without letting us think that Thailand is all RED……..

Tourism is the major revenue for them and they play a loyal role in welcoming Indians as we are the 3^rd largest inbounds to Thailand. 

The unique Thai culture and its traces can been seen almost everywhere: in the daily lifestyle of Thai people right from the fruit selling vendors to shop-keepers and massagers, at the massive Grand Palace complex to their countless Wats and malls...Thai ethnicity can’t be misunderstood as they have a distinct culture much like ours and should be indulged by all atleast once in life….

‘It all begins with the people’ as tagged by TAT this year, there is no doubt that Thailand will surely go way beyond the usual moreover as a family destination and become known for its unique Thai culture as I have had an experience which left me change my opinion that yes Thailand can also be a family destination at par to Singapore or Hong Kong with added top ups like Thai cuisine, Thai lukthung (music) and lastly the redefined THAI hospitality

แล้วพบกันใหม่ – Thailand, See you again as I’m sure more people will take rewards of this distinct aspect and have a memorable trip which will be cherished lifelong as I had….

 

Selamat Datang ke Malaysia - The Heart of Southeast Asia !!!

Located strategically at the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia never fails to fascinate. With a social core consisting of the Malays, Chinese and Indians as well as the many indigenous communities of Sabah and Sarawak, Malaysia is a unique and inspiring blend of cultures.

Malaysia's capital city, Kuala Lumpur,is undoubtedly one of Asia's most exciting and vibrant cities. Among the towering skyscrapers are remnants of Kuala Lumpur's rich past in the form of pre-war structures, providing an interesting contrast of two different eras.

Malaysia's other destinations such as Melaka,Penang, Langkawi, Kuching and Kota Kinabalu each has its own unique charms. Some of them are recipients of UNESCO awards - UNESCO World Heritage City of George Ton, UNESCO World Heritage City of Melaka, UNESCO World Heritage site of Kinabalu Park, UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gunung Mulu National PArk and Langkawi's UNESCO Global Geopark.

Malaysia's lush and well-preserved natural landscape is perfect for a wide range of eco-adventures. Malaysia's rainforests such as Taman Negara-one of the world's oldest tropical rainforests-possess an impressive biodiversity and are home to some rare and endemic species.

Malaysia's stunning islands and beaches provide the ideal sun, sea and sand getaways. Some of these islands, particularly along the coasts of Terengganu and Sabah, are world-class dive sites with breathtaking underwater landscapes. The magical island of Sipadan has been rated by diving professionals as one of the world's top diving destinations.

Malaysia has more to offer such as enchanting parks and gardens, thrilling theme parks, picturesque hill resorts, international-standard golf courses, luxurious spa retreats and endless shopping choices. The country is also known for its colourful festivals and exciting events held throughout the year such as Formula One Grand Prix, Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA), the 1Malaysia Year End Sale (M-YES), the 1Malaysia GP Sale and the 1Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival.

Whatever the reason for your visit-a romantic escapade, a fun-filled family holiday, an all-out shopping spree or a quiet retreat at the heart of nature-Malaysia has it all. So come, let Malaysia work its charm on you!

MALAYSIA IN THE EYES OF THE WORLD:

Malaysia has received numerous international awards and recognitions over the years, sealing its postion as one of the top destinations in the region and in the world. In 2011, the country was named Asia's Leading Sports Tourism Destinations and KL: Asia's Leading City Destination in the World Travel Awards. Malaysia also made it into the list of Lonely Planet's World's Top Ten Countries 2010, Best Value Destinations 2010 and Top Spots for Medical Adventures.

WHY MALAYSIA?

10 reasons why you should make Malaysia your next holiday destination:

1]A myriad of Asian cultures - and more-all in one place

2]Political stability, racial harmony and genuinely warm people

3]A wealth of natural beauty

4]Limitless shopping options and duty-free offerings

5]Home to some of the world's best dive sites

6]A mild, tropical weather all the year round

7]Historical and modern buildings standing side-by-side

8]An enormous range of gastronomical delights at affordable prices

9]A wide range of accommodation options, from homestays to five-star hotels

10] A whole host of activities to indulge in-golfing, fishing, angling, sailing, mountain-climbing, rafting, birdwatching-the sky is the limit.

 

  

GO BURSA !!!!

Known as 'Green Bursa', this city stands on the lower slopes of Mount Uludag. The history of the city dates back to 3rd century BC. For centuries Bursa was the western end of the Silk Road and was a source for most royal silk products for hundreds of years. As the first Ottoman Empire capital, Bursa has many magnificient historical buildings. Numerous edifices built throughout the Ottoman period and some remarkable  works of Seljuks constitute the city's main silhouette.

 The world famous mosque Ulucami is a landmark of early Ottoman architecture and was built between 1396 and 1399. Inside the mosque there are  192 monumental wall inscriptions written by famous calligraphers.Yesil Turbe and Yesil mosques are also noteworthy Ottoman works and symbols of the city. 

Besides, rich examples of tomb relieves, ruins of various architecture works, ceramics and coins of Byzantine period are displayed in the Bursa Archaeological Museum. In Bursa there are many sights and flavors not to be missed.

You are in the homeland of the delicious Iskender kebap made of thin slices of meat roasted over charcoal. Candied chestnuts and the superb Bursa peaches are other delicious specialities of the city. 

Bursa is still a center of the silk trade and towel manufacturing and modern Bursa is also a center for the automative industry. The great authentic inn, Koza Han which was built in 1491for cocoon sellers still serves the silk industry. The city is homeland of the famous Turkish shadow puppet characters, Karagoz and Hacivat. Bursa thermal spring facilities are indeed health centres dating back to Roman times.

 Cekirge district of the city houses many thermal spring facilities and attracts many visitors all around the year. Towering high above Bursa is Mount Uludag, one of the most celebrated winter-sports centres and national parks in Turkey. It is 36 kilometres from the city and easily accessible by car or cable car

BURSA TRIVIA:

- Bursa has been known for its silk industry for centuries, thanks mainly to the mulberry trees around the city that provide the natural home for silkworms. Koza Han is known for its shops and displays of a wide array of silk and silk products.

- Chestnut candy is one of the delicious specialities of Bursa. Kafkas Bursa, which has many locations throughout the city, is the original maker of this candy that is made of chestnuts from Uludag

Christmas in Greece: Top 4 destinations !!!

 

     
Greece may be best known for its Easter holidays with the spring flowers and red eggs rather than its Christmas tradition, but it sure has to offer an unforgettable experience for everyone visiting the country during the 14 official holidays setting really off on December 24 to January 6. This year, we chose 4 must-visit destinations.Most Greek towns are being decorated with Christmas lights and trees, stores are all decorated with Christmas ornaments and the streets are full of people doing the last minute shopping of presents amidst carols and bands playing in a festive mood. In most major towns, you will find concerts, theatrical performances and other cultural events that guarantee a wonderful time with plenty of things to do.

 
Athens:
Syntagma Square , the National Garden and squares of Athens, are just some of the places where we get to celebrate Christmas and New Year . Syntagma Square is the core of the Christmas scene in the city with an impressive festive image. The whole town is decorated and invites residents and visitors to join a unique celebration. Syntagma Square , the National Park and squares of Athens, are just some of the places where we can enjoy your Christmas holidays.

     
Thessaloniki:
In Thessaloniki, the first snow flakes start falling since late November . The atmosphere is festive , the shelves of department stores are filled with games and Santa Claus is everywhere. At the same time , having an atmospheric walk in Old Castles and Ladadika, will make your trip to Thessaloniki unforgettable.

 

Chania:
Even at Christmas , nothing seems incongruous in this city : Visitors stroll among Venetian mansions with latticed windows or under the shadow of the minaret of Ahmet Aga . Lose yourself in the neighborhood of Chalepa, among old European mansions with large gardens and swaying palm robust . Among other things , you will have the chance to visit the old French School, the ancestral home of Eleftherios Venizelos and the Russian style church of St .Dimitra. 
 

Ionnina:
The city of Ioannina, focusing on beautiful Lake Pamvotida, can provide you plenty of harmonious activities during your visit. The famous villages of Zagoroxoria and Metsovo are the areas that attract the interest of most of the visitors. In the city of Ioannina, you will be able to find plenty of amenities, such as taverns near the lake, restaurants, grills , cafes , bars and clubs , cinemas and theater, romantic walks on the lake, around the castle , under the trees .


                                   !!!!MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE HELLAS !!!!

COME ON over to Tampere !!!

So what makes Tampere so special? Sun-bathed lakes and lush ridges, local baker's butter-eyed buns. European experiences and our own special stuff. Morning coffee at Laukontori Market Square with wind in your hair. Fresh urban nature that caresses you. Fail-safe classics and unique destinations the way we like'em. Exciting events one after another.


Tampere is at its best both animated and peaceful. Tampere is welcoming like a small village with a cosmopolitan atmosphere. There's nothing not to love about Tampere. And yes, Keskustori Central Square is probably the best spot in Finland for watching people and the world go by.

And then there's the whole Tampere Region too. Filled with great, well-tried destinations and experiences-and just as surely something completely different, often small and intimate.

You'll find many gems and places worth a visit and many more by keeping your eyes open and asking the locals. And pop into Tourist Information at Tampere railway station if you come across it. There's plenty of information and insight to adapt everything to suit your trip and desires.

Your stories and subplots are created on the spot from moments and moods that often quite unexpectedly  crown the whole trip. You'll see.

Here you go: Tampere Region: It's All Bright !

LET'S GET ACQUAINTED IN A BIG WAY:
When Finns are asked where they would like to live if they were moving, the most popular destination is no surprise: Tampere of course.

Tampere is as much a temptation for tourists as well. Every year almost a million tourists and thousands of congress guests visit the Tmpere Region. But don't worry about the popularity of Tampere: even during high season there's plenty of room for all to join in and the atmosphere is refreshingly relaxed.

TAMPERE & IT'S REGION TRIVIA:
-One of Finland's fastest growing centres.
-Population: over 2,15,000 in Tampere, almost half a million in the Tampere Region, well over five million in Finland
- There are 22 municipalities in the Tampere Region and 11 of them are towns or cities
- Tampere was founded by Sweden's young reformist monarch, Gustav 3, in 1779
- Centre of the Tampere Region, third largest city in Finland and the largest inland city in the Nordic countries
- Located on an isthmus between lakes Nasijarvi and Phyajarvi in ridge scenery; the nationally recognised landscape of the Tammerkoski rapids, the award-winning lighting at Keskustori Central Square
- A monumental industrial history: The Finlayson cotton mill was the first large-scale industrial enterprise in Finland
- The head of fall of the Tammerkoski rapids is 18 metres and about 6.9 million cubic metres of water flow through the rapids daily.
- A leading centre in technology, research, education, culture, sports and business.
- The longest day lasts 19 hrs 30 mins (June) and the shortest 5 hrs 20 mins (December)
- Of special interest: run by the first Mayor of Finland: neighbourhoods of Pispala, Hervanta and Vuores; only the sea and fells are mising
- Some 4,500 kg of the national delicacy-black sausage is manufactured daily

In short, Tampere possesses a unique energy and the range of events is beyond comparison.
Come and experience the fascinating atmosphere: there's everything from culture to sports to choose from. 

So what are you waiting for, FINLAND IS CALLING YOU !!!!!!     
 

Pause at Perhentian Island for A Heart - Stopping Dive

Ask any travel agent for the best scuba diving spot in Peninsular Malaysia's East Coast and he/she will probably--automatically--direct you to Pulau Perhentian. At any one weekend you will find as many as 300 people diving in its vicinity & when their last tanks are spent, they retreat to their budget hotels or seaside cafes that rim the sparkling sands of Perhentian Besar. Go thru this blog for a dip in its warm waters.

Perhentian, as the locals fondly call the island, can be reached by trawler from the sleepy fishing town of Kuala Besut, Terengganu. The seascape of reefs and smaller islands surrounding Perhentian Besar-one of the two islands in the Perhentian archipelago 21km off Terengganu's shores-are rich with the beauty and variety of marine life bustling below the glittering tropical waters.

The waters of Perhentian Besar house an amazing variety of aquatic life that ranges from solitary angelfish to schooling moonfish. The vividly coloured corals, fish, turtles, sharks and rays make up a show- stopping water world and the dazzling performance not to be missed is the dancing clownfish that swim endlessly back and forth and around their anemone abodes. However, be warned, clownfish are very possessive of their soft corals. There is also an abundance multicoloured miniature 'Christmas trees' actually gossamer worms spiralling from heads of brain coral here. Even a squid or two may let you hover within an arm's length. Hence, it is this and the sheer coral that keep divers returning for more

Perhentian's shoreline, stretching from one tip of the island to the other, is littered with remnants of corals and seashells of all shapes and sizes. The waters are crystal clear with a visibility range of 15 metres from the water's surface.  On a sunny day, the sea turns chartreuse against a brilliant-blue sky. 

Perhentian has, for years, top marks as one of the best diving spots on the East Coast.

After about two hours of snorkelling and diving, you will probably find your body aching, It's time to surface, collect seashells and search for sea cucumbers sucking up the sand along the beach, or just laze in the sun on the beach, watching seabirds dive and sail across the water looking for their meals. There is always plenty of time for a nap before dinner. The next day, get up just before the crack of dawn to watch the sunrise over Perhentian. It is another day and the sea, weather, clouds and colours on and off-shore, will be different. All this is the cycle of life at Perhentian.

HOW TO GET THERE:

-Pulau Perhentian can be reached bt trawler from Kuala Besut, Terrengganu.

-Boats normally leave the jetty between 7 am and 10 am daily and the trips   take  about  90 minutes. The fare is between RM 30 to RM 50 each, depending on the type of boat and the number of passengers on board.

-There are two ways to get to the town: by air or road.

By road either by bus or car will take about 8 hours from Kuala Lumpur.

Malaysia Airline flies daily from Subang and KLIA to Kuala Terrengganu.

From the airport, visitors can take a taxi to the fishing town. It costs between RM30 and RM60 per person.

But for those who enjoy the beautiful scenery of the East Coast, a drive to the town is recommended. The journey is rewarding

So what are you waiting for, come and have a dip at Perhentian  !!!

SARAWAK: Malaysia's Wonderland of Nature, Culture and Adventure

Malaysia's largest state, Sarawak, is an astonishing land of jungle-clad mountain terrain hosting some of the world's most exotic flora and fauna and dense forests criss-crossed by serene rivers and swift rapids. Occupying an area of 1,24,450 sq km on the northwestern seaboard of Borneo, Sarawak prides itself in an exciting offering of nature, culture and adventure including the world's largest caves, wildlife sanctuaries, historical places as well as cultural diversity and recreational facilities.

Sarawak is popularly known as 'The Land of the Hornbills' in tribute to the majestic-looking hornbills found in the state. Considered as a messenger from the spirit world by the Iban community, an indigenous group, hornbills are central to many Iban ceremonies, beliefs and even traditional dances.

Sarawak's history dates about 40,000 years ago. Remains of a pre-historic civilisation including stone-age tools, artifacts and skull fragments of a 'Niah Man', aged between 35,000 and 40,000 years old, have been discovered at the Niah caves, located in the northernmost corner of the state.

Around 7th or 8th century AD, when traders from China, Japan, India and Arabia piled the maritime route, the early Sarawakians traded using beads, pepper and swiftlets nests-found in the roofs of the Niah Caves-as trading currency.  

Sarawak, was, in the early years under the Brunei Sultanate. During a period of uprising, James Brooke, an English adventurer who arrived in Sarawak in 1839, managed to subdue the rebellious crowd. In gratitude, the Pengiran Mahkota (ruler) of Brunei made Brooke the Rajah of Sarawak. The appointment of Brooke started a 'Brooke dynasty' which included Brooke's nephew and later his son, Charles Vyner, until 1941. During the Second World War, Sarawak was occupied by the Japanese and after that it became a British Crown Colony. In 1963, Sarawak joined Malaysia.

Although James Brooke founded the 'dynasty of the White Rajahs', it was his nephew who was responsible for much of the Brooke 'legacies' found in the city, among them Fort Margherita, named after the second Rajah's wife. The building has now been converted  into a police museum

There are also some fine colonial  buildings including the Astana, an imposing palace daing back to 1870, the Court House built in 1874 and the Sarawak Museum of Normandy-style architecture.

Kuching sits on the banks of the wide Sarawak river. The waterfront is a favourite area for strollers and there are sampans for hire for those wanting to take a leisurely ride on the river. The river is also the venue for the annual Sarawak Regatta, a reenactment of 'Baram Regatta' which was held to bring peace among the fighting Dayaks by Sarawak's  Rajahs in the early days.

For a relatively small city, Kuching has a surprising number of excellent museums. Pride of the Sarawakians, is the Sarawak Museum which houses a superb ethnographic section and gives an outline of Sarawak's history. In addition, there are museums charting the fortunes of the Chinese community, Islamic civilisation, forestry and even one devoted to cats-not without a reason. 'Kuching' means 'cat' in Malay. The city even dedicates a month-long Cat festival (Pesta Meow) in December for cat lovers. Exhibitions, shows and competitions on cats can be expected. Other activities are cat adoption program, cat drawing contests and just about anything associated with cats!

Sarawak's people comprises about 1.8 million people including Malay, Chinese, Indians and a rich ethnic diversity of groups such as Penan, Iban, Murut, Kenyah, Melanau, Kayan and Kelabit.

Colourful festivals are celebrated by various indigenous groups.

For an insight into the cultures of Sarawak, visit the Sarawak Cultural Village. Located in Damai, about half a day road journey from Kuching, the Cultural Village sprawls over 17 acres of landscaped grounds and houses seven authentic replicas of ethnic dwellings- Iban, Bidayuh, Penan, Orang Ulu, Melanau, Malay and Chinese.Cultural shows, handicraft demonstrations and displays of tribal artefacts can be seen at the Village.

A good time to visit is during the Gawai Festival mid-year where Gawai Tourism Night will be held. There will be a unique dance/drama presentation of historical events/folklore by performers from the Sarawak Cultural Village, including 'The Romance of Sibauk-How Padi came to Earth'. This is a combination of the many versions of the native Bidayuh tales of the origin of padi. Another highlight is a pageant with contestants dressed in traditional costumes.

Given the wide cultural diversity of Sarawak, there is a variety of cuisines and a stay at longhouses (the traditional dwelling of the ethnic people) may introduce visitors to some native dishes. Look out for the native dishes Umai, a salad of raw fish marinated in lime juice and spices and manok pansoh, chicken pieces cooked in bamboo and midin, local ferns cooked in oyster sauce.  

Sarawak is a wonderland for those seeking arts, crafts, curios. In Kuching, streets are crammed with shops selling pua kumbu, the traditional Iban hand woven rugs, silver jewellery, beadwork, woodcarving and basketwork.

In a state as large as Sarawak, the outdoor is a great playground for the adventure seeker. The National Parks make suitable places to begin with. Most parks have a system of well-marked jungle trails offering a variety of treks. There are gentle rainforest walks, half-day and full day jungle hikes and some tougher options such as week long camping trips, combined trekking and river-expeditions and demanding mountain climbs.

For activities of more relaxing nature, there are a couple of beaches to head for. Though having a long coastline, much of Sarawak's coast are rugged interpersed with mangrove swamps. However, the beaches  at Damai and Santubong, near Kuching are popular tourist spots and served by a range of seasports

With such diversity, it can be bewildering for a first time visitor what to seek out. Hence, for those on tight schedule, tour packages are ideal......

So what are you waiting for, put on your bag pack and get ready for a trail of adventure and discovery and be fascinated by SARAWAK     

 

MEETING POINT LEBANON

The daylight rising over Lebanon brings endless opportunities of fun, beach, nature and outdoor activities. You’ll never know what to choose...

Lebanon's diverse patchwork of Mediterranean- lapped coast, rugged alpine peaks, and green fertile valleys is packed into a parcel of land some 225km long and 46km wide. An ancient land, Lebanon features in the writings of Homer and in the Old Testament. Its cities were major outposts and seaports in Phoenician and Roman times, just two of the great civilizations that touched this important Middle Eastern crossroads.

 

The cosmopolitan flair of modern-day Beirut, the gastronomic renown of the country's food and wine, and an educated and outward-looking population complement a country that is both traditional and progressive in outlook. For all the flavours of its storied past and rugged natural beauty, Lebanon is a well-kept tourist secret that begs exploration.

There are four main geographic regions in Lebanon, differentiated by topography and climate. From west to east, they include: the coastal plain, the Mount Lebanon Range, the Békaa Valley, and the Anti-Lebanon Range. 

The Anti-Lebanon Range is a stretch of arid mountains that rise to the east of the Békaa Valley and form part of the country's eastern border with Syria.

  

The Békaa Valley, known in ancient times as “the breadbasket” or “granary” of the Roman Empire, is still the country's main agricultural region. Located on a high plateau between the country's two mountain ranges, the river-fed Békaa supports the production of tomatoes, potatoes, wheat, olives, and grapes, even despite summers that are hot and dry.

Besides some of Lebanon's best wineries (Ksara, Kefraya, Massaya), the Békaa's major attraction is the ruins at Baalbek. Originating as a place of worship to Baal, the Phoenician Sun God, Baalbek was known in Greco-Roman times as the famous Heliopolis, or “City of the Sun.” Perhaps because of the region's agricultural importance in feeding the inhabitants of the Roman Empire, some of the largest Roman temples ever constructed were erected at this site. The construction lasted over 200 years, and the well-preserved temples honor Jupiter, Bacchus, and Venus.

 

The lovely Lebanese coast is framed by the Mediterranean Sea to the west and the Mount Lebanon Range to the east, its temperate climate bringing in sunny, hot summers and cool, rainy winters. The daytime temperature in the summer, which averages 30°C (86°F), encourages people to head to the beach or to the higher, altitude-cooled mountain slopes. In the coastal cities of Saida (Sidon) and Jbail (Byblos), tourists can enjoy the rare opportunity to snorkel amongst long-submerged Phoenician ruins, while excellent hiking is a mere hour away in the Chouf region of the Mount Lebanon Range.

 

The Mount Lebanon Range includes numerous rivers that fizz with snowmelt, steep-walled gullies that shade grottoes once the hideout to those fleeing persecution, and also Lebanon's highest summit, Qornet Es-Saouda (3,090m). In winter, the high peaks are blanketed with snow, lending Lebanon its name, Lubnan, the Arabic word for “white.” Lebanon boasts a number of world-class ski resorts, one of only a couple countries in the Middle East where you can ski. The ski season runs from December until April.

 

The Mount Lebanon Range is also the location of Lebanon's Cedar Reserves. The great cedar forests of Lebanon, now protected, are famous for their use in the construction of some of the holiest buildings in the region, indeed the world, including Jerusalem's Dome of the Rock and Solomon's Temple.

To visit Lebanon is to dispel preconceived notions that linger from a relatively short moment in a long, vivid, and fascinating history: drink in the energetic, urbane vibe of revitalized Beirut; explore a diverse and beautiful landscape that lends itself easily to an unforgettable (and largely untrammeled) multi-sport adventure; marvel at archaeological wonders that are windows into the cradle of civilization; and simply enjoy the welcome of a people who are naturally hospitable, friendly, and gregarious.

UNESCO - World Heritage Convention has recognised the following as World Heritage Sites in Lebanon

Anjar

Anjar, 58 km from Beirut, is exclusively from one period, going back to the early 8th Century AD. Unlike Tyre and Byblos, which claim continuous habitation since the day they were founded, Anjar flourished for only a few decades. The city benefited from its strategic position on intersecting trade routes leading to Damascus, Homs, Baalbeck and to the South. This almost perfect quadrilateral of ruins lies in the midst of some of the richest agricultural land in Lebanon. It is only a short distance from gushing springs and one of the important sources of the Litani River.  

Baalbek

Lebanon's greatest Roman treasure,can be counted among the wonders of the ancient world. These are not only the largest and noblest Roman temples ever built, but they are also among the best preserved. Towering high above the Beqaa plain, their monumental proportions proclaimed the power and wealth of Imperial Rome.

Byblos

Byblos is said to be the oldest inhabited city in the world, the source of the first Phoenician letters that gave us our alphabet. Byblos was the major seaport of the east Mediterranean during the 3rd millennium BC. The ruins include the perimeter walls, the Temple of Baalat-Gebal (the goddess of the city), the Temple of the Gbelisks and the royal tombs. There are also ruins dating from Roman times and the crusader castle and church.

 

Tyre

Founded at the start of the third millennium BC, Tyre originally consisted of a mainland settlement and a modest island city that lay a short distance off shore. But it was not until the first millennium BC that the

city experienced its golden age. In the 10th Century BC Hiram, King of Tyre, joined two islets by landfill. Later he extended the city further by reclaiming a considerable area from the sea.

Ouadi Qadisha (the Holy Valley) and the Forest of the Cedars of God (Horsh Arz el-Rab)

The Qadisha valley is one of the most important early Christian monastic settlements in the world. Its monasteries, many of which are of a great age, stand in dramatic positions in a rugged landscape. Nearby are the remains of the great forest of cedars of Lebanon, highly prized in antiquity for the construction of great religious buildings

To sum up, Lebanon is surely an Heaven on Earth!

Landscapes that change with the seasons, but are always bathed in the warm sun. The daylight rising over Lebanon brings endless opportunities of fun, beach, nature and outdoor activities. You’ll never know what to choose. Whatever it will be, an unforgettable time awaits you under the shiny Lebanese sun.