Around the World

Winding, cobbled alleys lead visitors through the small, scenic village of Zermatt. Old, sturdy, wooden chalets line streets and lend a cozy feel to the car-free medieval village filled with pedestrians breathing in the fresh, alpine air. As pretty as this traditional Swiss village is, the visitor’s eye is drawn upward to the majestic peak of the famed Matterhorn, which soars up to 4,478 meters (14,692 feet).

The Matterhorn is not the only peak in town, though. There are 29 mountains surrounding Zermatt that rise over 4,000 meters (13,200 feet). The Matterhorn Ski Paradise covers three ski areas: the Sunnegga-Rothorn, the Gornergrat, and the Klein Matterhorn. There are 250 kilometers (155 miles) of trails with 22 percent designated for beginners, 50 percent for intermediates, and 28 percent for advanced skiers. The intermediates have the advantage in Zermatt with miles of scenic runs but there is excellent off-trail skiing, as well as special heli-skiing trips for advanced skiers.

Zermatt welcomes snowboarders as well. Boarders are allowed on most of the resort’s slopes and there are two snow parks with two half-pipes. There are also good schools for snowboarders including the Swiss Ski & Snowboarding School and the Stoked Snowboard School.

The terrain for cross-country skiers is somewhat limited and is located near the bottom of the mountains and requires natural snowfall. However, skiers enjoy several loops and trails sheltered by trees. There are 30 kilometers (18 miles) of hiking trails. Snowshoers can follow these trails, as well. The trails provide magnificent views of the surrounding mountains including the Matterhorn and there are cozy huts along the way to warm up in. For hikers that prefer more of a challenge there are local guides available to lead the way. There are also other winter activities to enjoy in the area, including tobogganing, ice skating, and ice climbing.

Zermatt runs a highly efficient lift system that includes 74 transport facilities with high-speed cableways, mountain railways, and ski lifts moving 17,188 people per hour. This system also provides access to Cervinia, Italy, where visitors can ski down the slopes and enjoy a tasty Italian meal.

Great restaurants are easy to find in Zermatt. The village is home to over 100 restaurants. Many are located along the Bahnhofstrasse, Zermatt’s main street. Food served ranges from traditional regional dishes of Raclette and fondue to Chinese, Italian, and Japanese dishes, among others. The restaurant Le Mazot offers high-class dining while Tony’s Grotto is a great place to enjoy a pizza. There are 38 mountain restaurants, as well. Many diners move on to a bar or nightclub with entertainment ranging from jazz to disco.

Skiing is not the only way to spend a day in Zermatt. Fun excursions include the Glacier Grotto, the world’s highest ice museum with its blue, frozen sculptures. A cable car lifts visitors to the top of the Klein Matternhorn to explore the unique glacial caves. Air Zermatt offers helicopter rides with stunning views of the Matterhorn and other nearby peaks. The Alpine Museum in Zermatt is also fun for winter sports lovers and details the history of mountaineering and skiing in the area. Shoppers are happy in Zermatt, as well. More than 300 shops sell products ranging from Swiss army knives to cuckoo clocks. Some shops sell touristy souvenirs while others offer designer fashions, ski wear, and expensive jewelry. For those who aren’t shoppers, there’s a very popular casino in Zermatt.

Zermatt provides everything needed for the ultimate alpine vacation. From a thrilling ski run to a cozy dinner in an old chalet, a Zermatt winter vacation is what dreams are made of.

Also, the Alps - the perfect place for skiing and snowboarding. Know how to ride? If not, then you can get driving lessons from the world's best snowboarders. Snowboard Academys unique coaching system will have you snowboarding like the pros in no time by using tried and tested techniques.

Vienna Austria is the country’s capital and is located on the scenic River Danube. This city was the political center of the Austrian Empire and is home to ornate palaces and museums. Many of these were built for or by the Hapsburg family and trace the family history as well as the country’s history. 
 
Visiting Vienna
 
The city has many hotels and other accommodations near the airport and in surrounding areas. There are hotels in every price range. The inner city is home to monuments and parks that are popular tourist attractions. Old, ornate churches can be found here as well as other building such as Parliament, the University and Opera house. 
When planning your trip, be aware that most attractions are closed on public holidays in the city. Public holidays include: January 1, January 6, the Monday after Easter, May 1, Ascension Thursday, The Feast of Corpus Christi, August 15, November 1, December 8, December 25 and 26. Just about all museums, palaces and many shops are closed on these days.
 
Museums
 
* Kuntshall Wien is a museum with a collection of modern and contemporary art. The artists are both Austrian and International artists. This museum is run by the city of Vienna.

 Vienna is home to several palaces built for the Hapsburg family. The Imperial Palace is located in the inner city and it was from here that the Hapsburgs ruled for seven centuries. It was constructed in the early 13th century. The Gothic chapel on the site is still open on Sundays for services. The Vienna Boy’s Choir sings here. The palace is open for tours during the week. 
The Gothic Cathedral of St. Stephens is located near the Imperial Palace. Construction on this ornate cathedral was started in the thirteenth century and completed in the fifteenth century. The steeple of St. Stephens can be seen from all over the city. 
Schonbrunn Palace was built as a summer residence for Empress Sisi. The grounds include a park, zoo and large labyrinth that are open for tour as well as an ornate, Baroque style palace. There is so much to see at this palace that you should plan an entire day here. 
The Belvedere Palace is also built in the Baroque style. This palace was the heart of the former Hapsburg empire. The Austrian Gallery Belvedere is located here. In addition to viewing the artwork, you can tour the palace and gardens. 
The Imperial Burial Vault is located below the Capuchin Church and is open for tours. This was the burial place for members of the Hapsburg family. The vault contains 146 aristocrats, 12 emperors and 19 empresses.

On March 29th the German capital features one of the bravest nights in terms of shopping fever… the so called “The Long Shopping Night”. Every year Berlin celebrates long shopping night for over 500,000 shopaholics to indulge in a extra spate of retail therapy among 350 shops, stores, restaurants and bars.
Shops and entertainment venues stay open until midnight to the delight of big spenders everywhere. So if you're in Berlin this Spring bring your flexible friend and cut loose; If not, then you'll have to wait until Autumn for a second bite of the Long Shopping Night cherry. 
On this regard, there’s a new tendency among young Europeans that is travelling in small groups of 3-5 people. This way of travelling, apart from being safer especially for girls who seem to be the best travellers in terms of kilometres run per year, is also cost-effective. There are many ways we can demonstrate this: from the train tickets that often apply reductions to groups, to museums entrance, up to accommodation and food expenses. If you think about it, many places offer jugs of beer for as cheap as 8-10 euros and you can drink as much as you want for 2-3 euros only. 
Not to speak about some ‘pizzerie’ where they cook giant pizzas for up to 6-8 people at ridiculous prices. Then if you look for cutting off the accommodation costs, many young backpackers, students or travellers often opt for private apartments where they can cook their own meal, chill out after a day in the city, guest new friends for a drink, or whatever they wish. We too have often chosen this alternative as prices range from an average of 80-120 euros for a central apartment in an European Capital city. 
Take the Berlin example, with less than 80 euros per day, you can rent out studios for 3-4 people. Basically with 25 bucks guys, you can make your day and save a lot! And more and more, apartments owners are renting out their apartments to tourists, not only to residents.
Getting back to our shopping topic, if you are in Berlin the following little suggestions and info may be of some help. KaDeWe is the biggest store of the continent from clothes to food (Tauentzienstr., 21; Shunenberg; ph. +49 (0) 30 21210; U-Bahn Wittenbergplatz) whilst the cheapest one is Wertheim in Charlottenburg district (Kurfrstendamm 231; ph: +49 (0) 30 880030; transport: U-Bahn Kurfьrstendamm). Specialized in backpacking gears is the Bannat (Lietzenburger Str.65, Charlottenburg; ph: +49 (0) 30 882 7601) whilst for unceasing readers you should try Dussmann a huge Emporium for books, cds and software right in Mitte (Friedrichstr.90; ph: +49 (0) 30 2025 2400) or East of Eden in the heart of East Berlin. 
It’s an international independent second-hand book shop hosting regular events (readings, open stage, exhibitions and live music) in the reading room. You can choose among 10,000 second-hand English language books! (Schreinerstrasse 10, Samariterstr; U-Bahn Samariterst). If you are in the area and still prefer to indulge in small cosy bookshops why not try the “Books in Berlin”?It has a good section for English narrative too and used books in general (Goethestr.69, Charlottenberg; phone number: +49 (0) 30 3131233). 
Well we hope this brief introduction to Berlin Shopping fever was quite exhaustive to give you an idea of what you can do and expect while there. So save up some money and let’s meet there!

Countless words have illustrated the Colosseum, and its fearless gladiators; the Pantheon, and its gateway to the gods; and the Roman Forum, once heart of the mighty Roman Empire. But what of the hidden tourist attractions of Rome and those that receive fewer column inches?
For a taste of the macabre try the Capuchin Crypt, the original haunted house. Ghoulishly decorated with the bones of long dead monks, the Crypt is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Those monks privileged enough to retain their bones in skeletal form have been propped up against the wall and dressed in hooded robes. Be sure to greet your hosts as you savour the creepy ambience and explore for lost souls. It’s a place you will either love or hate, though it’s probably unsuitable for young children.
The Gothic Sacro Cuore del Suffragio church claims to have evidence of paranormal activity. Enclosed in a glass case to protect from contamination, several handprints are believed to be those of lost souls awaiting their journey to heaven.
Egyptian influence is evident in the Pyramid of Caius Cestius. In ancient Rome many built their tombs in Egyptian fashion, but today, this is the only survivor. Constructed as part of a wall defending the city, it remains a compelling monument for the Tribune of the People for whom it was intended.
According to inscriptions upon the stones, the tomb was built over a period of 330 days and stands 118 feet (36 metres) tall. Completed in 12 BC, though the tomb may have the Egyptian signature, it differs in regard to its finish. The Romans loved marble, and in keeping with their tastes the pyramid was completed with marble slabs over the brick.
The Romans - indeed Italians in general - are justifiably proud of their culinary expertise, serving the world with their recipes. The National Museum of Pasta proudly reveals the origins of pasta in the heart of Italy, dating way back to the conception of the foodstuff some time in the 12th century.
The museum goes to great length detailing correct cooking procedures and the million and one variations on the theme that make the dish so versatile.
Learn how to cook the perfect pasta and discover how rigorous chewing can aid your digestive system.

California is noted for its unparalleled nightlife around the world. Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Long Beach, Fresno, Sacramento, Oakland, Santa Ana and Anaheim are some of the prominent places in California with exuberant nightlife. These are some of the cities that radiate with overweening energy when the sun goes down. All travelers who have had a taste of the nightlife in some of the major tourist hubs in California swear that the fun begins after sunset. And don’t be amazed, if you bump into some of the tinsel world stars. If you are looking for a secure and hassle free nightlife, then California is the right choice.

Los Angeles can be termed as a city that never sleeps. Hollywood dominates the nightlife scene in Los Angeles. The streets are lively and are dotted with a variety of entertainments which fits the bill of any curious visitor. Hollywood is dotted with nightclubs of international repute which are frequented by renowned personalities from around the globe. Music that accompanies many of the nightlife activities is invigorating. Equally brimming with energy are the restaurants and bars of various origin. Some of the famous bars might create the feeling of nostalgia, even though you might be first time there. Don’t worry; it is because some of them have featured in Hollywood hits.

The nightlife on offer at San Francisco is concentrated on the Union Square, Ghirardelli Square, China Town, Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39. These places are dotted with bars and clubs of different taste. Almost all the different types of cuisines in the world are served in the restaurants of different origin. State Street is the hub of activities in Santa Barbara. Stern’s Wharf, a 19th century pier, in State Street is dotted with clubs and restaurants offering various entertainment options. The setting of the Stern’s Wharf in night is soothing to the eyes. The events that take place during each night changes periodically and new and interesting events are showcased regularly.

The Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego gives the feel of the 18th century and is occupied by restaurants, clubs and bars. People, who are used to the modern nightlife, will have a unique experience here in the backdrop of 18th century architecture. Another unique nightlife offering is the fabulous follies in Palm Springs. This hilarious comedy acts attracts visitors of all age. Special events are organized during the night at many of the important cities. Most the cities in California features the normal nightlife associated with the cities in the United States. The only difference being the glamorous nightlife in Hollywood. It is better to check with local city guides for important events in the night.

Like all other states, California also has its rules and regulations for nightlife. Certain places and events demand a particular type of dress code. The recent unhappy events taking place across the globe has led to tight security checks. Disturbing the neighborhood and driving under the influence of alcohol can invite stringent punishments. It is wise to get firsthand information regarding the basic laws followed by each city during night.

I sat and watched from my seat in a street cafй on London’s Oxford Street as a young man pleaded for loose change from passers by.
Most pretended to be oblivious to the young man’s plight and continued their way along one of London’s busiest and thriving shopping streets.
Several minutes passed before an elegantly dressed woman took pity on the youth. Digging deep into her pockets she produced a couple of coins and offered them to the poor guy.
As I sipped my coffee and observed the exchange, it puzzled me how two human beings could take such radically different paths on their journey through life.
At what stage of life do some people make the wrong choice and set off on the road to oblivion.
Or maybe our ultimate destiny is already decided and fate has made our decisions for us.
Whatever the truth, the two exchanged smiles as the woman made her merry way and entered a nearby store.
Oxford Street is the shopping hub of London, a wealth of designer stores that can damage even the most affluent of credit cards.
The cosmopolitan capital city of England, London simply oozes history and culture on virtually every street corner.
Its vast multi-ethnic population makes for a tremendously diverse range of shops, bars and restaurants to cover the tastes of most visiting palettes.
London’s recent history has been dominated by the suicide bombings during the summer of 2005 and the devastating effects suffered by so many families and friends of the innocent victims.
If any good came from these tragic events it was the show of strength from the communities, how people bonded together and formed lasting friendships.
But the events demonstrated how vulnerable we all are, even somewhere as prosperous as London.
In today’s world where more and more becomes affordable to so many, it’s important to remember those not as fortunate as ourselves.

The old goat herder stands before his flock. Stick in hand, he bears the look of experience. His beaten old hat keeps the sun off his unshaven face.
His weathered trousers have seen better days and wear a belt, crudely tied around his waist. His braces are actually two of the elastic straps you use to tie your luggage to the car's roof rack.
As the sun beats down on the plains of Agia Marina he herds his goats to pastures new and another day of contentment.
When your country has suffered 9000 years of constant invasion, any break in hostilities is greeted with appreciation.
Cyprus is a blend of many influences. Turkish, Greek, Muslim and Christian invaders have all set foot upon this hallowed land and made their mark.
Mosques and Christian churches stand side by side as a reminder of the often turbulent and violent past of Cyprus.
But when free of the shackles of conflict, Cyprus is a place of beauty and discovery. The Byzantine churches amongst the Troodos Mountains are an essential experience.
The sense of history and culture is overwhelming as you journey through mountain passes and wonder at the ancient architecture.
For a genuine sense of solitude try cycling through the barren land of the Karpas Peninsula or hiking the well-trodden trails of Mount Olympus.
The blue crystal waters of Cape Greco provide a wealth of opportunity for swimming and diving.
When the sun goes down, the Cypriot nightlife will have you dancing into the early hours. Youngsters tend to make their way towards the large contingent of British pubs in Agia Napa.
The more cultured make their way to the traditional Cypriot cafes and bars. Here you can drink raki, the local firewater made from distilled grapes.
If you're peckish, try the baked lamb dish of kleftiko, or another local favourite mezedes.

The world-famous city of Orlando is located in the central area of the state of Florida, in the USA. Home to the world's number-one tourist attraction, Walt Disney World, Orlando also offers a range of must-see sights, which are popular with both children and adults. Ranging from historical museums to vast water parks, landscaped gardens to superb restaurants, Orlando has it all and is one of America's most popular vacation options, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Orlando is a spreading city and covers almost 100 square miles / 260 square kilometers, with a population of around 200,000. Acclaimed as perhaps the ultimate family holiday destination, Orlando is also known for its outstanding shopping malls, vibrant nightlife and sports facilities. Other popular attractions can be found in nearby towns and cities, including Kissimmee.

Orlando Transport:
Around Orlando, public transport is well maintained and the city offers a number of options, which include taxis, coaches, trains, trams, and buses operated by the Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority. Renting a car is one of the most popular ways to travel around the Orlando area and allows the freedom to explore the nearby towns, which surround the city.

Florida's number one airport, the bustling Orlando International Airport (MCO), is located close to the city and each month sees several million passengers arriving and departing. Also, the smaller Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is nearby and has two terminals, offering a range of flights. Both airports provide a selection of reasonably priced ground transportation, which travels into central Orlando.

Where to Stay in Orlando:
Since the arrival of Disney's Magic Kingdom, the tourist trade in Orlando has grown dramatically, together with the number of hotels. Orlando now offers an enormous selection of hotels, both throughout the city and clustered around many of the popular attractions, particularly Disney World. The nearby town of Kissimmee is just a short trip from Orlando and offers many reasonably priced hotels, which are often more conveniently located and offer better value for money.

Orlando Shopping:
Orlando is an impressive shopping destination offering a huge selection of outstanding shops and stores. Facilities include an endless range of designer outlets, many well-known department stores, countless fashion boutiques and sprawling shopping malls. Popular shopping areas include the famous International Drive, together with South Orange Blossom Trail, West Oakridge Road and Vineland Road.

Orlando Tourism:
Tourist attractions in Orlando are outstanding, making Orlando the ideal holiday destination. Facilities include many major landmarks and monuments, museums, art galleries, historical sights, recreational and sporting activities, and in-depth guided tours of the city. Top attractions in Orlando include the Disney Magic Kingdom - complete with its fairytale castle and Mickey Mouse attractions; the Universal Studios - with many outstanding rides, such as the 'Back to the Future' ride and the 'Earthquake'; the Epcot Center - Disney's vision of the future; and the MGM Studios Theme Park - where you will find many movie-related rides and tours.

Other popular places to visit in Orlando include the Church Street Station, Gatorland, Leu Botanical Gardens, the Orlando Science Center, Ripley's Believe It or Not! Wet 'n' Wild and Sea World of Florida - home to Shamu the killer whale and featuring more than 200 acres / 80 hectares of marine stadiums and lagoons.

Orlando Weather:
Orlando has a subtropical and extremely warm climate, with hot summer weather and sunshine throughout the year. The city has become a year-round resort, with little rain and predictable high temperatures. Winters (from December to April) are mild and pleasant and many of the city's most popular festivals are held at this time of the year. Summers (from June to September) are hot, with temperatures consistently in the 80s and 90s.

When many people in the western world hear of Singapore, it’s often the Singapore Sling cocktail that comes in mind. Most people don’t really know where the country is and would probably never consider it as a travel destination. For any trip to southeast Asia, especially on longer excursions to multiple countries, Singapore is worth a stop as it provides a nice change compared to the usual crowded, polluted and chaotic large cities of Hong Kong or Bangkok. Singapore is an island, country and city all rolled into one.  

Compared to other destinations in southeast Asia, Singapore is ultra clean thanks to its somewhat restrictive government. There are heavy fines for littering, spitting in the streets and jaywalking. It’s even illegal to bring in chewing gum into the country. Drug offences can result in death penalties so travelers definitely should not take the risk by bringing any illegal narcotics into Singapore. But the result of all the tough laws is a place in the region that is quite low in crime rates. It is one of the safest destinations for female travelers where equality is encouraged.

With its gleaming high rise buildings, Singapore is one of the most modern cities in Asia due to its economic success. It also makes great efforts to make itself presentable and beautiful. On the trip from the international airport to the city center, it can be noticed that the bridges passing over the main highway are covered with orchards and flowers. This is something that one doesn’t see often anywhere else in the world. The city center itself is well designed with the Singapore river running through it. River cruises are available to take in the local sights from the water. There are numerous outdoor cafes, restaurants and shops along side the river which makes for a pleasant stroll. Because of the hot temperatures here since Singapore is pretty well on the equator line, the city can feel like a giant sauna. So extended walks are suggested in the early mornings, late afternoons or evenings when things get a bit more comfortable rather than in the midday hear.  

Singapore with its mixed population including Chinese (77%), Malay (14%) and Indian (7%) is a case study in multiculturalism. Everyone here lives and works together in harmony. Only in Singapore can one see a Buddhist temple, a Hindu temple and an Islamic mosque all in close proximity to each other. The country has four official languages being English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil. One of the great advantages of such a multiracial scene is that there are different ethnic neighborhoods to check out including Chinatown, Little India and Arab Street. All have their own distinct flavors in little shops, markets and cuisine. In addition to restaurants, there are outdoor food vendors which serve very low priced meals so one can dine well at any budget level.

For horticulture enthusiasts, Singapore is a gold mine where there are world class gardens including the Singapore Botanic Gardens as well as the Chinese and Japanese Gardens. For nature lovers, there are some interesting attractions including the Jurong Bird Park, Jurong Reptile Park, Singapore Crocidilarium, Singapore Zoological Gardens and the very unique Night Safari which is open only during evenings. Sentosa is a small resort island south of the city with a scenic cable car, an aquarium and some nice beaches.  

In addition to the modern skyline and the contrasting ethnic temples, there is still some wonderful colonial architecture including the famous Raffles Hotel where the Singapore Sling was originally invented. If one wishes to stay indoors during the hot midday sun, there are several museums including the National Museum to take in. Singapore has some Asian theme parks such as Tang Dynasty City which is a recreation of life during 7th century China and Haw ParVilla Tiger Balm Gardens which has colorful statues depicting Chinese mythology. High end boutique shopping for fashion and electronics will be concentrated on or near Orchard Street.

It is a good idea to take a quick organized city tour to get an overview of what Singapore has to offer. Then tourists can easily take advantage of the very efficient bus and subway system known as Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) to go pretty well anywhere on the island for selected sights of interest. A nice thing about Singapore is that it is pretty compact and easy to get around. It won’t take long to see all the sights and attractions one would be interested in so even a few days is all that would be required. Singapore would be the much needed change of pace within a longer hectic southeast Asian tour.

A country with the biggest population on the Earth, a country closed for a several decades; nowadays China is becoming one of the most interesting tourist destinations in Asia. 
China is one of the oldest states in the world and the only, surviving till today. 
For visitors China offers a great variety of choices. Whether you are interested in Chinese history, Chinese culture or Chinese scenery, your trip will be very interesting.

Of course, those who like to know China should visit its Capital – Beijing. Beijing is a capital city for over 800 years now. Thirty-four emperors have lived and ruled the nation in Beijing and it has been an important trading city from its earliest days. Now Beijing is a modern metropolis, but you still can see the traces of the Chinese glorious story - Forbidden City - the largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex, a section of the Great Wall and the largest sacrificial complex in the world - the Temple of Heaven. In the old part of Beijing people still leave in small houses, that don’t differ from those their ancestors lived in. This part of the city looks like they missed at least 100 last years. However there is another Beijing – modern, with skyscrapers and prestigious hotels, with restaurants and bars. The world-biggest central square, ruefully famous Tian'anmen Square attracts a lot of tourists. In 2008 Beijing will host the Olympic Games, so the amount of modern buildings and tourist services will increase significantly. 

Shanghai with its population of about 18 millions is the biggest city in China. Originally Shanghai was a seaside fishing village, but today it has become a multi-cultural metropolis with both modern and traditional Chinese features. Known as "the Oriental Paris", Shanghai is the top shopping destination in China. It also can be called the most Western Chinese city. As a port city Shanghai survived a considerable foreign influence. 

A very special place in China is Hong Kong. It became a part of China only in 1999 and still had strong links with the West, particularly with the Great Britain. Today Hong Kong is a great international trading post, a powerful manufacturing base and one of the world's largest financial centres. Hong Kong is also famous for its cinema. 

Another interesting experience in China could become a cruise along Yangtze, the greatest Chinese river. Usually they last from 5 to 22 days. You will visit Chongqing, Fengdu, Sandouping and some other Chinise places of interest. 

Amazing world of the mysterious Tibetan civilization is without any doubt worth visiting but it’s a subject of a separate trip that will take about 2 weeks. 

Anyway, China has a lot to offer and you can choose your own travel program to see what you want.

Although Austria is rarely in the headlines these days, it was once part of a dominant European power. Following is an overview of this postcard country. 

An Overview of Austria for Travelers.

With its prime location in mainland Europe, Austria was a major player in economic, military and political terms when it was known as the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Alas, this role was significantly diminished after World War I when victorious allies divided the empire. A much smaller Austria came onto the scene and has developed into an ideal travel and relocation destination.  

Famous Austrians dot the historical record. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Ludwig van Beethoven were mavericks in music. In psychology, a certain Sigmund Freud made just a slight impact. Currently, the Governator, Arnold Schwarzenegger, was born in Austria.

The official name of the country is Republic of Austria. It covers a relatively small area of land, 32,000 square miles. The capital is beautiful Vienna, which has a population of just over 1.6 million people. Other cities of note include Salzburg and Innsbruck which has hosted a winter Olympics. The country is predominantly a mountainous one and has a climate categorized as continental with plenty of rain and snowfall. Summers in the mountains of Austria are simply dazzling. You can pull up pictures on the Internet or simply watch the movie, The Sound of Music.

The people of Austria are known as “Austrians.” The total population for the country is just over 8 million people, and barely growing each year at a rate of .4 percent. The ethnicity of Austrians breaks down as 98 percent German with a mix of neighboring country natives mixed in. The dominant language is German. Roman Catholic is the faith of 73 percent of Austrians although 12 percent claim no religion at all. The literacy rate in this well-developed country is 98 percent. Life expectancy for women is 81.7 years while men average 75.9. 

As this overview of Austria demonstrates, the country has seen all sides of the power ledger. Regardless, Austria is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage and is definitely worth a visit.

In the distance something stirs. A drifting polar bear searches for food on the edge of camp. Despite the presence of the huge beast, the men are in little danger. The guns take care of that. It is rare for a bear to wander so close. She must be hungry.

For the scientists and professionals who choose to live and work in this unforgiving land, Antarctica can seem a very lonely place. Perched upon a hill or mountain somewhere on this great continent, the dry air allows a clear view for many miles. On one of the rare moments the wind drops, the predominantly white landscape offers an eerie silence. You can feel like the only person on the planet.

What attracts anyone to such an inhospitable place? Despite the valuable science and work that is undertaken here, I believe many would choose to live here anyway. For me, the biggest attraction is the alien landscape, unlike anywhere else on the planet. If man is to one-day land on another world, then this is how I would envisage it. Regardless of the barren wilderness and blanket white surroundings, there is no more fascinating place on earth, probably because it is so different.

Despite the inhospitable environment, Antarctica is testament to the tenacity of life. Temperatures have been recorded as low as -89?° C; katabatic winds have reached speeds of up to 200 mph. In the face of these daunting figures, it seems incredible that anything can exist here at all. Life always appears to find a way.

My favourite Antarctica phenomenon has to be the static icebergs, fixed in position by the frozen sea. As winter approaches and temperatures plunge, the freezing sea slowly renders the icebergs immobile as they become trapped by the ice. Here they remain until the following spring, when the subsequent rise in sea temperatures melt the frozen ocean, allowing the icebergs to set off once more for foreign shores. 

During winter it becomes possible to walk out over the sea and stand next to one of the huge icebergs. It is a very humbling experience standing next to an iceberg the size of an office block. In this planet?’s evolutionary mix, you realize just how insignificant a human being is.

North of the Himalayas, in western China, lies the self-governing land of Tibet. The Tibetan Plateau is the highest populated region on the planet and stands at an average elevation of 16,000 feet. To the north lie the imposing Kunlun Shan mountains, providing a natural border.

At one of the last great outposts is the isolated Argin Shan Reserve, the largest nature reserve in China. The large herds of hooved animals present in this wilderness have led to its nickname 'Serengeti of Asia'. The snow leopard is a frequent visitor to the reserve but unfortunately excessive hunting means it is now an endangered species.

Such imposing platformed territory offers source to some of the most powerful rivers in Asia including the Indus, Brahmaputra, Ganges, Salween and Mekong. The Yangtze twists and turns through the broad green valleys flowing eastwards across China and ultimately the East China Sea.

Many folk of Tibet are nomads and move their entire families around the country. Skin tents are popular living domains allowing easy departure should circumstances dictate. Rural life reigns in Tibet and starkly contradicts many westerners lifestyles. Religion is practised passionately with many a young boy aspiring to become a Buddhist monk.

Eager to preserve their nomadic way of life, summer chores must be completed by fall before the severe winter weather prevents passage through the mountains. The mountain trails are fundamental to trading and pattern a working myriad of paths during the more clement months of the year.

Much of Tibet is barren land scattered with modest neighbourhoods labouring arduously to earn a livelihood from the land. This is compensated some part however by the beautiful scenery in which these nomadic folk live. Soaring peaks bathe in cloud as colossal mountains command the horizon throughout this noble ground. In this pollution-free atmosphere the pure, brisk air permits unhindered panorama for miles on every side.

The brief spring and summer months bring an explosion of colour. Greenery is rife as efflorescence emerge almost overnight to complement the vivid territory. The outbreak of bloom however is short lived. The onset of winter blankets all in a sheet of white, as snow and ice mask the landscape.

Uncompromising winter months bring much Tibetan activity to a pause, as the elements seize a grip of the environment. The brief term of mild weather is crucial to the livelihood of the farmers. Livestock must be put to pasture and fattened up in time for winter.

The Grand Canyon formed around 10 million years ago after disturbances in the surface of the earth resulted in the land rising, allowing the Colorado River to pierce a path through the rock. The rock forming the riverbed today is over 2 billion years old. 

The Grand Canyon lies in the southern state of Arizona. The nearest city to the gorge is Las Vegas to the west, but Flagstaff – 80 miles south – offers easiest access to the main tourist area, Grand Canyon Village. 

The Colorado River, winding its way through the vast gorges shaped the Grand Canyon into the dramatic vision it is today. The rapids provide a grand challenge for the brave adventurers who tackle the river by boat, particularly the notorious Lava Falls Rapids. 

Stretching from Lake Mead through to Lake Powell the Grand Canyon extends some 227 miles. The vast chasm broadens towards the horizon at up to 18 miles at its widest point. In some places the land drops 1 mile to the winding Colorado River. The colossal gorge offers no easy route to the opposite side.