Hôtel Ritz, Paris, France

This hotel is in the heart of the French capital on one of the most beautiful areas. It has become synonymous with the aristocratic luxury. Specific blue-blooded, business tycoons, political elite, celebrity fashion and film, arriving in Paris, choose this particular hotel. It was inspired by Marcel Proust, it was turned into a fashion house of Coco Chanel, it was here where the passionate novel of Ernest Hemingway was developed. And I still entering the doors of Paris’ Ritz – means to join the world of the rich and famous.

Bayerischer Hof, Munich, Germany

Back in 1832 Ludwig of Bavaria decided to build a huge hotel in Munich which will have a unique interior and exclusive appearance. Unfortunately, during the bombing in 1944, a significant part of the building was destroyed, but the owners decided to restore the famed hotel. During the Olympical Games in 1972 the hotel has been added with another wing – adjacent Old Palace Mongelas, and even after a couple of decades, opened a large swimming pool on the roof and the new-fashioned spa center. But despite the modern gloss, Bayerischer Hof is still the same good old Munich hotel.

Marriott Hotel, Cairo, Egypt

We all believe that in recent years everything has turned into a form of a modern skyscrapers, but we need only to cross the threshold of the hotel, and you have a completely different world – the realm of imperial luxury and bliss. Once, this luxurious hotel was called Al Gezira Palace. It was opened in the house of Napoleon’s wife – the Empress Eugenie. Since then, the hotel appears to have spa and fitness center, but has remained the same elegant atmosphere and kept some of the interiors.

Old Winter Palace, Luxor, Egypt

In this hotel with noble Victorian interior stopped a long list of famous people and celebrities around the world such as Agatha Christie. The hotel was built in 1886 in lush tropical gardens on the banks of the Nile. Now it is in the center of the city, next to the temple of Luxor. It can be reached in just a few minutes. Being on tour in Luxor you should make sure to look briefly here: admiring the interior and to have a cup of flavored beverage in a tea room.

The Imperial Hotel, Delhi, India

The history of the hotel began exactly a century ago, when King George V declared New Delhi the capital of India. The hotel has been conceived as one of the most original buildings of the city: the architect reflected in its interior the style of the outgoing Victorian era and spirit of our new age of art – art deco. One needs only to walk around the hotel, as before you will open up the most significant pages of Indian history. They even still carefully preserve the table at which the heads of the country were discussing the independence of India.

American Colony Hotel, Jerusalem, Israel

Prior to the beginning of the twentieth century in this ancient city there was not a suitable hotel with a decent level of service for the reception of travelers and pilgrims from Europe and America. And at the same time the Turkish inns could not meet the demands of wealthy gentlemen. This hotel opened in 1902, and named American Colony became the first high-class hotel in Jerusalem. Being the property of Americans, this hotel has always been known as a neutral territory, free from the hazards of local political life, and so it became a kind of oasis for meetings of heads of governments and diplomats of Arab and Jewish parties.This is called to be the first hotel to symbolize peace!

Giraffe Manor, Nairobi, Kenya

Built in 1932 in Africa it looks like a typical hotel is a cozy Scottish hunting lodge. But instead of the nature of Northern Europe, the place has a view of peacefully grazing giraffes, and even not in the far distance stands the magnificent Mount Kilimanjaro. The owners of the hotel are paying much attention to the nature reservation, protection of wild animals and that’s why they even opened up a whole fleet of giraffes. For hotel guests the entry is totally free there: they will have a plenty of time to admire the graceful animals.

The Grand Hotel, Taipei, Taiwan

Beautiful hotel is built in a traditional palace style. Under the elegant indoor shiny tiled roof with upturned edges of the amazing splendor of the interiors, the characteristic red bearing columns and grand arches – all reminiscent of imperial luxury apartments. Each of the eight floors corresponds to one of the dynasties of Chinese rulers, reflected in the form of paintings, furniture and decoration throughout. Today, this hotel has become a symbol of Taiwan.

Hotel New Grand, Yokohama, Japan

The hotel symbolizes the history of Yokohama – port city, which became a bridge between Japan and the modern Western world. It harmoniously combines different styles and eras in a single building: the main building have a quiet classic style, the interior successfully combines western elegance and brightness of the Asian endurance. It adjoined a separate tower in 1991 which has a modern design. In this hotel it is worth staying not only for the architecture but also for the wonderful views of various species of the bay of Yokohama.

Majestic Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Everyone who settled in this boutique hotel, built in 1925, feels surrounded with the old world charm. Elegant columns and vaulted ceilings characterize the classic French colonial design of the golden age of architecture. Of course, time has not stopped: after the last overall renovation of the hotel, an 8-stored department was attached to the main building. Also here you can use the service of the modern SPA center. At the same time the architects managed to keep the main thing – the spirit of a bygone era.

Oprah Winfrey: Antigua

The best-known television host Oprah Winfrey loves to enjoy the peace of the Caribbeans. Despite the fact that she owns huge tracts of land on California’s beautiful lands, on Maui and Montecito, Oprah tends to rest in peace and tranquility under the huge palm trees in the washed crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean beaches.
To do this, she goes to the coast of Antigua, where her neighbors are usually celebrities such as Eric Clapton, one of the leading classic rock musicians. Here the problems seem to be decreased to the lowest level and thus there’s no needs to worry about the US hitches which are left to far from the unusual paradise.

Richard Branson: British Virgin Islands

Let’s be honest- the Caribbean are a real reserve of billionaires from various countries. The father-founder of  the huge corporation Virgin, Richard Branson, apparently having decided once again to play with the words, bought himself an island Necker – one of the British Virgin Islands, and built a huge house with eight rooms in Balinese style. While being surrounded with the turquoise waters, this piece of land lies on the softest fine-grained sand. This gives an additional opportunity to swim among the coral reefs surrounding the Necker or to start learning any other kind of water sports.
Branson has a full staff of servants, including a personal chef and masseuse. Incidentally, the famous businessman from time to time turns his possession. So if you have nowhere to go relaxing and have some extra hundreds of dollars to spend freely, you can easily live there too. He enjoys hosting around 28 guests who are resting next to him.

Paul Allen: Octopus Yacht

Long stays in one place seem to be tiring and even the fact that it’s a luxurious place for resting, doesn’t save celebrities from boredom. And because of this Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, doesn’t like to have a rest on solid ground while preferring instead to swim in his own mega-yacht that costs him $ 200 million.
In this floating five-star hotel there are not only ordinary pool and a cinema. The hotel owner and his guests have a basketball court, a couple of helicopters and a real submarine for 10 people.  The yacht is so big that the crew serving the miracle yacht is no more, no less than 60 people.

Roman Abramovich: Wildcat Ridge, Colorado, USA

Not all the celebrities of this world like sandy beaches, palm trees and warmer climates. Roman Abramovich, if he does not travel on his 170-meter yacht, usually chooses to rest in the countries with a cold climate. The owner of Chelsea Football Club loves to ski, and so bought himself a small, only 80 hectares, ranch Wildcat Ridge near the famous ski resort of Aspen in Colorado.
There is no need to get surprised. The thing is that Roman Abramovich is not only owning a club following the idea of healthy lifestyle, but he also enjoys various sports himself, trying to appear to the public in his best shape.

Bill Gates: Western Greenland

Another fan of the cold countries and places can be truly called Bill Gates. Once in 2008, the world’s most famous programmer has left Microsoft, he began charity work and because of his wife, Melinda to spend much time in Africa.
Let’s not make any kind of rumors about why the African heat bothers him, and he prefers to rest in Greenland, in the heart of skiing Apussuit Adventure Camp, let’s just take this fact as a note. Greenland is a truly wild corner of the world. Even the cities of this country are quite deserted and even some of them are not even inhabited, and only at a remote resort on the west of the island is where some adventurers like Bill Gates enjoy having a vacation.

Francois-Henri Pinault: Ibiza, Spain

Although most of the billionaires do not like to be on the center of attention and thus avoid journalists, it’s not true about Francois-Henri Pinault, the son of billionaire Francois Pinault. Not long ago he decided to conquer the world of fashion and art, making a present for paparazzi, having gone with his girlfriend actress Salma Hayek to Ibiza.
Photographers were waiting for a couple of moments to take pics of the couple who were relaxing on this Mediterranean coast, and their shots hit the magazines of all over the world. However, the young Mexican was not embarrassed at all: she was so charmed by Pino (or, at least, Ibiza), that next Valentine’s Day the young and attractive couple decided to get married.

Mukesh Ambani: Mumbai, India

However, not all billionaires like to overcross the seas and oceans to soak in somebody else’s country house. Indian telecom tycoon Mukesh Ambani prefers to relax at home. To this end, he decided to arrange a home in Mumbai in its own extravagant 27-storey skyscraper worth around one billion dollars. It seems to be rather interesting to have something like a hotel for your own.

Under construction now this man’s residence will take four floors, and there will be everything necessary for a modest multi-billionaire recreation: outdoor garden, a large dance hall with a chandelier, which occupies 4 / 5 ceiling, yoga studio and a special ice room, where you can hide from the Indian heat. The only question left to be answered is the one whether Mukesh plans to have all of the house for his own or going to have some “guests” to come over?

Thus when travelling you better understand all of the advantages and disadvantages of the cars offered by the specific country.

Mexico City, Mexico

At first glance, the problems with taxis in Mexico City there: visible green cars are omnipresent. However, the capital is full of frightening stories about taxis – about a quarter of the cars are  pirated. Their drivers have been working in the genre of “express kidnappings”: the client is brought to the ATM and at gunpoint forced to withdraw all funds from the plastic card.

Tip: It’s better to use only those taxis that are brought by a hotel employee. And before getting into a car, check the place- whether it’s normal and nobody’s inside the car.

Seoul, South Korea

It seems that taxi drivers can not get lost on the streets of Seoul, as their cars are equipped with GPS-navigators. However, some drivers are replacing them with mini TVs: much more interesting to watch movies than to track the satellite path. Last year, city officials have declared the practice to be illegal, and even impose a fine of 500 dollars, but the court overturned that decision. Local police believe that such fans of TV in 2008 became the perpetrators of 200 accidents that have affected 350 people.

Tip: A trip by a white car would be cheaper, but safer to choose the black taxis, which are usually waiting for customers at the door of the hotels. Much less can be seen the orange cars, but more likely it is that their drivers can speak in English, and, hence, they can  explain why they you should not watch soap operas at the wheel.

New Delhi, India

Market metropolitan taxi in India is divided between black and yellow Fiats and colorful moto-cars. They must use the meter and observe tariffs, but the trouble is that the drivers ignore the fact, and even more. Trip on a moto-car is more dangerous: in these small cars  there are no seat belts, or even doors. Tuk-tuki (namely the so-called in India) continually fall into the news reports: that drivers are robbing and raping the passengers, the carriages suddenly ignite spontaneously.

Tip: many shops offer special cards on which you can calculate the cost of  your travel. And to do your work well done when order a taxi, ask your hotel – they will certainly call into one of the two most reputable and reliable companies operating in India.

Johannesburg, South Africa

During the pre-revolutionary era minivans were rode to the workplace by the proletarians, and now these cars became  shuttle buses, which can be found almost everywhere. But they obviously should not be used for those who suffer from claustrophobia: a salon can fit up to 10 seats, stuffed usually by 20 people . However after all you should think before you sit in this kind of  wagon: drivers prefer not to think about the traffic rules and ride on a crazy speed.

Tip: on the black continent, existing customary law – addressed to the staff at the reception by the hotel – he will call a taxi for a solid company with the insured driver.

Lima, Peru

Yelling in the street, you are literally asking for  been robbed or raped so you better be careful when making any kind of noise. The U.S. State Department reported that in 2007, a taxi was robbed even belonging to the American Embassy. What is the reason? The fact is that in this country to become a taxi driver one needs to rent or buy a taxi-like car and put him on a plate. And many non-resident drivers know the city  much worse than the tourists. Thus the choice of the driver here is rather important task.

Tip: The hotel staff is there to ensure  solving the problem and will offer a reliable taxi. But do not forget to make sure that the driver locks the door, because armed robbers sometimes jump into the car, standing at the crossroads.

Cairo, Egypt

It’s scary to watch on one of these black Fiats , even when they are on the spot. A lot of old cars, no lights, some body parts replaced with “non-native” and unpainted ones. However, if you happen to go in this car, you probably will forget about such trifles. The drivers say the rules are unnecessary formalities, like to drive the car, casually holding the steering wheel with one hand, and even at night prefer not to turn on the lights.

Tip: You better stop the choice on the “yellow” taxi of one of three companies: working on such machines, drivers are trained better than their Fiat colleagues.

Bangkok, Thailand

Sitting in a three-wheeled tuk-tuk, it is hardly worth it to seek for safety belts. This transport is not for those having a weak heart: delicate moto-cars are moving at a great speed  into the dense flow of traffic, so that the passengers can  only hear the wind whistling in the ears (although the doors are also provided in this form of transport, they seem to be useless ). On the road the driver will try to make  you visit variety of shops, restaurants and massage parlors – from the owners of these establishments, he receives a commission for each customer.

Tip: To get a taxi in the heart of the Thailand- in its capital is easy when paying attention to its color. They say that the most multilingual drivers go in the green cars. North to the cabin, pay attention to the counter. If it does not work and the driver is not thinking about replacing it,you better look for another taxi.

Manila, Philippines

Sitting in a car with a stranger – a bad idea anywhere, but in this city it’s especially bad, because to rob those who sit in the back seat is one of the most common crimes in this country. First of all, do not sit in cars parked along the side of the streets.And even if you might not be attacked by your driver, it’s worth trying to get a normal taxi with an air conditioning as the climate here is too hot to left without it.

Tip: You refer to the hotel staff  not only to bring a car but a driver and  to check its number and license in advance.

Jakarta, Indonesia

Since in the 1990’s pedicabs were banned, the Indonesian usually use co-called mototaxis. Authorities are completely unable to regulate this minitransportation. And as a result – drivers are regularly robbing the passengers and most of the time suffer from the car-stealing themselves. Although the driver must wear a helmet and have a spare for the passengers, none of these items are being remembered.

Tip: Take care of your health! Use you our means of transportation- feet!

The British edition of Wanderlust Travel made a list of  tourist sites, virtually destroyed by the tourists, so take a glance and you’ll realize how the human invasion may effect the sites.

1. Wadi Rum, Jordan

In recent decades tourism development of in Jordan was increasing rapidly, and almost everyone who came or comes into this charming country, feels compelled to see the spectacular lunar landscapes of Wadi Rum, swept across the desert in a jeep. The attraction of the desert is not limited to the bright color sand and the sun but also the opportunity of feeling yourself the main character of Sting’s song “Desert Rose”. Now the worldly-wise-wheel drive vehicles are improved to such a degree so that they sweep sand dunes making untouched place to become possible for visit.

The main problem here lies in the fact that the desert is shared between three Bedouin tribes and each of them is viewing it as a source for money-earning without caring about the construction of decent housing for travelers, or the purchase of new SUVs. As a result, unique landscapes are gradually losing their appeal, and the received money from tourists  are not being wisely used by the  urban merchants, as it is not doing any good to the desert, nor its inhabitants, it doesn’t give even slightest benefit to both sides. Although, due to its main characteristics Wadi Rum could’ve been easily turned into a center of ecological desert tourism.

2. Yangshuo, China

Until  recently Yangshuo was a real paradise for those  travelers who were getting  tired of the hustle and bustle of large tourist groups and needed a quite and nice place to rest. Alas, the Chinese tourism is growing and this town is now being included into the list of bus stops for the tourists.

Currently, Yangshuo takes more than three million people a year to view the Chinese beauty, which now influences  the nature  here-  once a crystal clear river is now practically turned into a sewage system, and the houses of local residents are now being turned into tiny motels, which kind of increases the unwanted interest to this place. Selling  their homes to foreigners, wishing to do business here, the natives are fleeing the city in search of the lost beauty and solitude. Fortunately, in this there are still some areas that can be called a true quiet spots. This can be easily felt while  renting  a bike and leisurely strolling , enjoying the endless rice fields and picturesque mountain scenery.

3. Tulum, Mexico

Just 30 years ago, beaches of Cancun, surrounded by coral reefs vast, were nearly deserted as  this was the spot where the residents were earning  for a living – by catching fish. Currently, the line of the coast is  overfilled with various  huge hotels and amusement parks, and the natives, the descendants of the Maya,  are slowly forgetting their mother tongue, which is no longer even taught in schools. It feels like the modernity and its processed got to the last stronghold of the Maya in this  region – the city of Tulum. Thousands of tourists daily visit the pyramids and temples of the Indian civilization, filling the city  with their noise and bustle.

Currently, the government plans to build an international airport and a large recreation center on the more pristine parts of the coast, which will at last transform the region into an ordinary, unremarkable “tourist paradise” with the fliers.

4. Stonehenge, United Kingdom

Until recently, the guides were carefully  hiding that during the entire XX century, the  ancient monument was subject to various restorations. Moreover,  while placing and moving the stones, the builders were guided by no means  of historical authenticity but rather how it will look at the photos. It feels like a rather interesting approach for the scene PR.

As a result, the original location of the stones is  completely disrupted, and the majority of tourists come here only to  have a walk from  the car park to the nearest stone,  to take photographs and go back. Anyways this is not impressive for such a  great scientific place. Except this, there are also two major highways crossing the historical monument which slightly said “doesn’t add any beauty to the landscape”. Currently, activists  are launching a new propaganda campaign to remove the highway tunnels and make the space more open. Hopefully it will help to save this land from the disaster.

5. Machu Picchu, Peru

Monument which was originally built for the great Inca Empire and became the survivor of many wars and earthquakes, seem to be  unprepared for the invasion of  the tourists. Two and a half thousand people who are annually visiting the city, contributed to the fact that last year the monument was listed among the  endangered architectural sites.

The bridge which was built in 2007, in the area of Santa Teresa, has compounded the problem  as it opened a road for tourists, and now getting  to the ancient monuments can be done almost effortless.

6. Jaisalmer, India

2008 was a great year for this awesome place as it hosted over 300 thousand people , who came to have a look at yellow walls of the  lost monument. In just 10 years the flow of tourists to Jaisalmer increased 3 times, and  the worst thing is that the local infrastructures  are absolutely unable to cope with the flows of people.

The main problem is the outdated sewage system: water seeps into the sand through the cracks in the old pipes which lead to the formation of cracks in the soil. The only way to solve the problem is the complete replacement of the outdated system, but the funding is not enough. The situation is compounded by the fact that every third family in Jaisalmer is living earning in the tourism, and therefore attempts to limit the number of visitors will instantly affect the general welfare of urban residents.

7. Timbuktu, Mali

Even though  the festival of the Tuareg will be celebrating its 10-year anniversary in 2010 in the desert near Timbuktu to, international organizations are strongly recommended to get rid of the idea of visiting  Mali. It is believed that the region is hosting the Al-Qaeda and has a great threat of terrorism.

According to the local Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the terrorists are going to expand their sphere of influence at the expense of those regions, where the police are too weak and there are only few inhabitants. There are a lot of places like this around the Sahara. Previously the number of the visitors of Timbuktu was no less than ten thousand a year, but now their number decreased dramatically.

8. Lonely Planet, Tasmania

Once in 2008, when Lonely Planet got included in the list of the best beach facilities, the tourists who came here found that there is nowhere to sit. Almost the entire 30-kilometer coastline is filled with tents and camping sites, and it is simply not that easy to find a place to fit in.

Luckily, Lonely Planet mentioned only the southern part of the beach, so if you shift a little to the north, it is still a chance to find a quiet place, even though privacy is not guaranteed as you might be not the only victim of the public ad.

But wait a minute! After getting acquainted with our list of the best stations in the world, you’ll get the idea why some of the tourists don’t even want to get home but rather spent hours in the stations waiting for their trip to get delayed.

1.Atocha, Madrid, Spain

What is it? Mini-jungle or a botanical garden? This question is being asked by every traveler, who is having his first visit to the main railway station in Madrid. So it’s simply a station under a huge glass which makes it possible to stretch this green oasis of exotic plants and palm trees. So for some of the tourists it’s a great pleasure to have few cups of coffee waiting for a train in this tropical paradise.

2. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Mumbai, India

The historic building, listed in the UNESCO World Heritage List is now being used as the main railway station of the city of Mumbai. Originally it was called Victoria Terminus during the England ruling the country, and then was renamed in honor of national hero in India. The impressive dome, complex towers and arches make an unusual appearance from the outside, and the inside is built in the spirit of the Victorian era: the interior is decorated with wood carvings, framed by beautiful iron staircase railings. All of this reminds of the fairly-tale stories.

3. Union Station, Chicago, USA

Chicago Station is not just a place to change trains and killing time between the trains. The building, which is constructed in the style of the American Renaissance, with strict and noble classical contours is often being used as a ceremonial hall for various events. So do not be afraid if your train is delayed and you have to spend a little more time here, looking at the marble floors and brass fixtures.

4. Pickering Station, Yorkshire, United Kingdom

Not so long ago, this station in North Yorkshire has been restored, and now any traveler who stopped here can feel the charm of an old British railway station. You will see the interior of the last century with all of its antique equipments. If that is you will not be enough to move you back to the half-century back to the Yorkshire, in October it will host the annual “Military Weekend” and the locals will come to the station, dressed in the fashion of 1940’s.

5. Ushuaia Station, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina

“Station on the edge of the world” – can be read at the poster placed in front of this delicate wooden structure. Railhead Ushuaia actually located on the outskirts of the national park of Tierra del Fuego is at the extreme end of the Latin American continent. It is understandable why this place seems to be the end of the world for the prisoners who were brought here to labor camps in the beginning of the XX century.

6. Choum Station, Mauritania

Probably, at the first glance Choum seems not the most pleasant place, where you will need to pass the time while waiting. A small hut, which is the actual railway station is surrounded by others alike – ugly huts which sell tea and various foods. But look around. Compensation for such conditions will be breathtaking vision of the surrounding desert. At the same time friendly locals are always ready to entertain the tired travelers with their local tricks.

7. Tanggula Mountain, Tibet

This is the most high-altitude railway station – it is at an altitude of 5 058 meters above the sea level. In such circumstances, it is hard to breathe for those who are not familiar with this kind of heights, and that’s why the Sino-Tibetan railway carries passengers in special cars equipped with systems of oxygen supply. After leaving the train, most likely you will not meet people: it is cold and desolate terrain not like other stations in the world. But if you’re not afraid of frost, visiting the Tanggula Mountain is first of all, for the incredibly beautiful lakes and glaciers.

8. Broken Hill, Australia

As if for some of you Australia is the best place for the airports, then you should visit its railways stations to change your opinion. Old railway station in New South Wales was built in 1888 to serve as a small mining town. Today it is used mostly by tourists who want to see the picturesque region, which is mostly popular due to its huge wall paintings: the two images seem to be very realistic as if destroying the wall and enter the building from the both sides.

9. Haydarpasa, Istanbul, Turkey

East Station of Istanbul is remarkable in the way that it is surrounded by water on three of its sides and built on almost 1100 wooden piles, reinforced at the bottom of the sea. The station was built as a gift to Sultan Abdulhamidu II from the German Kaiser Wilhelm II in 1908. The building resembles Teutonic castle and looks just gorgeous. Marble steps lead to the monumental facade with a large baroque clock. If you have enough time, be sure to look in a restaurant in the east wing and admire the unusual tile decoration.

10. Divisadero Barrancas, Mexico

Probably, no other station in the world opens such a wonderful view as does this small Hispanic Station. It is the hosting place for the people traveling through the deepest canyon on the planet. Yet none of the visitors of this station make any complains about the delay in train: usually you witness the opposite scene -when the tourists are ready to watch beautiful pictures on the edge of the canyon, at an altitude from which the head is spinning for long hours. And while waiting for a train, you can refresh  yourself eating cakes  immediately sold by the locals – and even choose some of them to bring home as  gifts.

Well, this is something beautiful to get thought about but there are a lot more interesting things that  need to be taken into account while talking about the Thanksgiving Day or Harvest Festival celebration, such as how do we celebrate them in our countries and how do they do it around the rest of the world?

We do offer you to have a look at Top 7 Thanksgiving Day and Harvest Festival celebrations around the world.

1. Mid-Fall Festival in China

The Mid-Fall Festival is the Chinese version of the Thanksgiving Day, which is also known as Moon Festival. The usual timing for this holiday celebration in made upon the 15th day of the eighth month in the Chinese calendar, as it is believed that the moon is the fullest and roundest by that time. Connected with that comes the traditional food of mooncakes baked and served in a variety of ways. Traditionally on this day, Chinese family members and friends will reunion for having a look at the bright mid-fall harvest moon. Other celebrations include planting mid-fall trees, carrying lit lanterns and having them hang around the tallest buildings and towers and collecting dandelion leaves and distributing them among family members and friends. The Mid-Fall Festival is the only holiday except Chinese New Year which is held in all the Chinese communities around the world.

2. Thanksgiving Day Celebration in United States

Thanksgiving Day is announced to be a time family reunions in America and the official beginning day of the Christmas season. Most of the common symbols of the Thanksgiving Day are associated with food such as carved turkeys, pumpkin and apple pies, cranberry sauce and corn. These dishes might be included in almost every house Thanksgiving meals Thanksgiving is  also the holiday of gift-giving to your family members and friends while showing your gratitude and respect to your elders and siblings. Popular Thanksgiving gift-list includes flowers, jewelry, chocolate gift baskets, wine and etc.

3.’Harvest Festival’ in United Kingdom
‘Harvest Festival’ is one of the most popular and oldest festivals held in United Kingdom. Its history roots go deep into the year of 1843, when Robert Hawker invited local parishioners for a special thanksgiving service at a church in Cornwall. Soon it turned into a custom of decorating churches with home-grown plants, fruits and vegetables as a showing of gratitude. The ritual of offering an animal sacrifice, generally a hare, is accompanied with the cutting of last sheaf of corn.
The celebration is accompanied with songs and fruit and vegetable giveaway.

4. Thanksgiving Day Celebration in Canada
Canadian celebration of the holiday takes place on the second Monday in the month of October every year. The timing difference between the American and Canadian versions of the holiday varies because of the earlier start of the fall timing. The first Canadian holiday celebration was symbolizing the gratitude to god for the recovery of King Edward VII from serious illness but the official announcement of the holiday by the Canadian government was only made in 1957. The thanksgiving celebrations include most of the typical American customs such as parades, ‘family feasts’ and ‘turkey’.

5. “Kadazan Harvest “ Celebration in Malaysia
While being a country based on a large number of islands -Malaysia has a local traditional celebration of the holiday. The Kadazan Harvest festival of Malaysia is celebrated by Sabah every year. This traditional religious holiday is held in May in favor to the local Rice God. The rice-associated holiday is accompanied with the homemade rice wine distribution among localities who wear their traditional costumes Carnivals are also considered to play an important role while celebrating the festival.
The celebration also takes into account lots of varying activities, cultural programs and agricultural shows, buffalo races and traditional games.

6. Homowo Festival in Africa
African Harvest Festivals as not a surprise have a lot of religious connotations and can be characterized by a variety of religious dancing and singing. Dancers usually wear national masks and clothes made of natural materials.  Homowo- which translated will be like ‘hooting at hunger’, is a popular festival in Africa. It is the largest cultural festival of its unique kind. The Homowo festival here is associated with the gratitude showing towards kings and queens.

7.’Ladainha’ Celebration in India
The State of Goa which is known as a most-Christian populated part of India has its unique tradition of Thanksgiving celebration, which is known here as ‘Ladin’ or ‘Ladainha’. ‘Ladin’ literally means a litany to the Virgin Mary. During the Thanksgiving ritual, people thank God not only for the material benefits gained but also spiritual. The preparation for the festival includes purchasing wheat and gram, candles, wine and colored tinsel paper.

Goa is divided into northern and southern parts. The border is considered to be Fort Aguada. The southern beaches are sandy, clean, designed for wealthy holidaymakers. The sea is warm, calm over there. While  not rich tourists, students, hippies, musicians, prefer to stay in the north.

On the beaches there are discos, variety of shops, eateries, bustling bazaars. All the beaches are municipal, but those portions of the beach, which are assigned to specific hotels, are protected.

Usage of the rest of beaches and equipments are free of charge.

North Goa
Tiracol
The regal building, Fort Tiracol, which is now “Heritage” hotel, stands above the deserted beach. Tiracol is the most northern beach of Goa and probably the most wild and untouched by civilization which might attract the attention of those who prefer to have a quite rest by enjoying the nature.

Arambol
Arambol Beach is also known as Harman. The sand here is soft and white. On red soil among the rare stones are cottages and freshwater pond. The road to the beach is surrounded by huts of locals who sell souvenirs and clothing to tourist. While the last offer might sound a more effect reason to visit here.

Vagator
Tour operators have long mastered the Vagator, so it’s quite difficult for tourists to find a place in this hotel.
Steep hill leading down to the beach of Vagator, is enriched by Chapora Fort, built in 1617 by the Portuguese in the ruins of more ancient Islamic buildings. A fantastic view of the neighborhood opens from the fort. In this part of the beach there are high cliffs, popular among honeymooners and those looking for solitude.
A little further south is a small quiet beach, known as Little Vagator beach or Ozran. It is less known and therefore less populated. The uniqueness is guaranteed here.

Anjuna
The beach is located 8 km from the town of Mapusa. In 10-12th centuries the city was a trading port of the Arabs and was called the “Chamber of Commerce.” Now every Wednesday there is a flea market here, which is the most famous and “rich” in the state. Here you can find everything – from products of Tibetan weavers to china cups. But the most amazing is the atmosphere over there and the communications between buyers and sellers.
Anjuna is the most photographed beach of Goa. This means that you will not find privacy here. Lovers of exotics come here from everywhere. Also the full moon night raves are held here. So this is somewhat a perfect spot for those who like even more adventure.

South Goa
Aguada
The beautiful sandy beach, lying under the walls of the old Portuguese fort Aguada, opens a line of beaches in South Goa. Tourists can enjoy luxury hotels and tourist village of South Goa. Beach is clean, well-groomed, well-equipped. The attractiveness of the beach is the space share of the tourist among themselves and those alike. So company might be a best choice of yours.

Miramar
Miramar is also known as Gaspar Dias. It is located 3 km from downtown Panaji, with a few she-pak forests. Children love to play in the sand on the beach, as these places are good for sunbathing and walking. Bathing in local waters is not completely safe though. The spot is ideal if you prefer to have a walk and spend your leisure time together with a group of friends or just have fun while playing with water.

Dona Paula
Gulf of Dona Paula is where two large Indian River meet the Arabian Sea. A magnificent view of the Mormugao harbor opens here. This is a cozy place, hidden on the south side of a rocky plateau that separates the full-flowing rivers. In the western part of the beach is the official residence of the Governor of Goa.
The beach is a paradise for lovers and has received its name in honor of Dona Paula de Menezes, daughter of the vice-governor, which, according to legend, threw herself from a cliff, when she was separated from her beloved fisherman. Her rebellious spirit still wanders in the neighborhood. It is said that on moonlit nights you can see her on the waves in a pearl necklace. This romantic history leads to the effect of possible stay with the beloved as the place believed to be a place for those who you like more.
In Dona Paula is one of the best sports clubs in Goa. You can do any kinds of water sports here.

Bogmalo
Bogmalo is small cove with a sandy beach surrounded by palm trees. Beach is equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas. It is only 4 km to Dabolim airport and 8 km to the port town of Vasco-Da-Gama. The waters are safe for swimmers, on the shore there are many cafes and souvenir shops. On the way to the beach is the Museum of naval aviation. In the depths of the coast you can see magnificent coconut groves. This beach is worth of visiting especially if your goal of visit is the active time spending in India.

So enjoy your rest while choosing  one of these beaches offered  that best fits your interest.

Now tourists traveling to India, have not a lot of choices on which train to travel –they have to choose between  traveling on conventional trains, in the cars packed with the Indians, chickens and bags of belongings, or on luxury trains, the tickets for which are too expensive.

New car designers are working on now, are provided with ergonomically designed seats and toilets, wide beds, and leave more  free space for passengers’ feet. In addition, they will be adapted for traveling people with different disabilities.

The windows in the carriages will be wider to allow tourists a better view, and young boys and girls, who will be trained to be hospitable and communicative  with foreigners, will be selected as tourist guides. Special booklets will tell visitors about new Indian trains. This booklets will be distributed to agencies in major cities of Europe, USA and South-East Asia.

Let us remind that the state of trains in India today leaves much to be desired.  Train-involved accidents are frequent here, and many of them go back to the root time of English colonization. However, trains are the most common high-speed, but not too reliable transport in this country. Therefore, the vast majority of local residents are traveling by train. Trains are overcrowded and many Indians climb on the roofs of cars, which often leads to tragic consequences afterwards.

Thus, in late January 2009 as a result of the railway incident in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, 6 people were killed and 200 wounded. Many young people on their way to the recruiting station, sat directly on the roofs of cars of express, on route from the city of Allahabad to the city of Faizabad. The tragedy occurred because of the fact that people were swept away from the wagons by overhanging tree branches.

Illustrative is the statement by the Minister of Railway Transport of India, who in 2004 took no responsibility for accidents, which are constantly taking place in one of the largest systems in the world of communications. He said that the fate of 13 million passengers using trains every day, is in the hands of the god of machines Vishvakarman. “Indian Railways are under the authority of God Vishvakarman. Therefore, ensuring the safety of passengers is his duty, not mine “, – said Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav during his visit to his native city of Patna in eastern India.

Eiger (Switzerland), 3970m
Despite that the height of the peak doesn’t reach 4 km, it deserves to be in this list, even though the other 4 competitors are of its double height. It is because of the north side of the mountain, which, practically goes down upright. The precipice starts 100 meters lower than the top, and is almost 2 km. Nobody even tried to conquer this part of mountain for a long time. More or less serious attempts were made only in 1935, but the first successful one was in 1938. Before that all the expeditions were ended with the death of the participants. The first conquerors of the peak, who were Germans A. Chakmayera, L. Fierga and Austrians F. Kasparecka and G. Harrera, got a prize from Hitler’s hands.
A Jungfrau railway is built inside the mountain, and it extends from Kleine-Scheideg g, goes up to Eiger and Mench to the Jungfraujoch. You can admire the amazing beautiful views by getting higher and higher. The final station is situated on the Jungfraujoch Mountain at a height of 3454 m and is the highest station in the Europe. It is called “The roof of the world”.

Kanchenjunga (Nepal, India), 8586 m.
The third highest peak of the world
Despite the world’s decreasing tendency of deaths during mountaineering, the rule does not apply to the case of Kanchenjunga. Last years the quantity of tragic accidents grew by 22% and there is no sign of it decreasing. The mountain has five peaks, all higher than eight kilometers, which are often called “Five snowy treasures”. People of Nepal assert that the climb is mostly dangerous for women, because Kanchenjunga – is a woman who wants to outshine everything surrounding her with her beauty, and she does not bear any rivals on her slopes.
First time the Kanchenjunga peak yielded only in 1955 to the British: George Brand and Joe Brown, 50 years later after the first tragical attempt, which was undertaken in 1905. The main dangers during the mountaineer represent many avalanches and very unfavorable weather conditions.

Nanga Parbat (Pakistan), 8126 m
The ninth highest peak of the world
The first attempt to conquer the peak of “Naked Mountain” was yet in 1895; however, the alpinists succeeded only 58 years later. And only one person reached the peak, while the second participant of the expedition turned back from the height of 7300m. This peak competes in the matter of the climbing complexity with the Chogori, which is considered to be the most difficult one. The snowy mountainsides of Parabat come abruptly to an end from all the sides and its most famous wall Roupal, goes down for 4.5 km, and is the most extensive wall in the world. Paying tribute to the complexity of climbing the Roupal wall and to the number of those who lost their lives there, it is often called “people eater”.

Chogori/K2 (Pakistan, China), 8611m
The second highest peak of the world
The second highest peak of the world after Jomolungma is considered to be the first one by the difficulty of climbing it. Hidden in the Karakorum massif on the boarder with China, the mountain is surrounded with rather high peaks, which are difficult for climbing because of glaciers and, besides that, the alpinists, who wish to reach it, are in a constant danger of the avalanches. The death-rate is very high here: every forth courageous person dies without reaching the desired point, located on the 8611 m height. 160 people, altogether, reached the peak, and five of them are Russian.

Annapurna (Nepal), 8091 m
The tenth highest peak of the world
Only 130 people could climb this most dangerous mountain named after the goddess of fertility. The death rate among the climbers reaches 40%. However, the peak is the first eight thousand meters high peak, submitted to a human: French alpinists Moris Ertsog and Lui Lachenal climbed it on the 3rd of June, 1950. The main problems for alpinists are the frequent avalanches and unpredictable weather conditions. It was here in 1997, where the very famous Russian alpinist Anatoli Bukreev died, who conquered 11 eight thousand meters of the 14 high peaks existing on the planet.

KALPENI
The island belongs to the group of the Lakshadweep islands scattered in the Arabian Sea at a distance of 400 km from the south western part of India. The beach itself is in a lagoon surrounded by tiny islands, which have the names Thilakkam, Pitti and Cheriyam, and is surrounded by coral reefs.
This beach is not so popular, as Kavaratti and Bangaram, and all because there are no luxury hotels here, only small bungalows. Most local residents are not interested in tourists, but are still engaged in their traditional crafts – the cultivation of coconut palms and fishing.

Those who come here, mostly entertain themselves with water sports. Here you can go kayaking, rent a catamaran or sail on boat. If you use a boat with a transparent bottom, you can enjoy the sea turtles, of which there is a great multitude in the surrounding waters, and simply enjoy the spectacle of the rich underwater world of coral reefs.
Of the attractions on the island there is only a lighthouse and a banyan grove. Travellers usually buy cowry shells and various articles made of them as souvenirs. If you want to travel, it is worth to travel to the southernmost island of the archipelago – Minicoy. Here is one of the oldest lighthouses in India, built in 1885.
A separate visa is required to visit the islands, which is acquired during the day. The only airport of the archipelago is located on the island of Agatti, from which to get to Kalpeni is possible in one day. The climate on the islands is tropical, the temperature ranges from 28-35 degrees Celsius. The best time to for visit is from January to May.

KARWAR
The beauty of local beaches inspired poets, it motivated the famous Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore to write his first work. The total length of the sand shoreline, which is mostly shaded by palms growing almost near the water, is more than 300 kilometres. Privacy here is not to be looked for, as since the beginning of 2002, the Karnataka State Government allocated considerable resources for the development of tourism in the region.
From the beach of Karvar a boat can be taken to nearby islands. If you get tired of admiring the turquoise water surface, you can visit the fort on the hill of Sadashivgad, a temple dedicated to goddess Durga, the Octagonal church, temples Venkataraman and Naganatha or the amusement park Dandeli.

It is also worth visiting the island of Devbagh, the beach of which is so well protected from the wind that the water here is always calm. In here and there scattered restaurants, hidden in houses, standing on piles directly in the water, be sure to taste the traditional local seafood, which is however quite spicy.
Finally, be sure to get to Om beach. The contrast of black rocks and the dazzling white sand of the three bays similar in shape to a symbol of “Om” will leave a lasting impression.
The closest airport is in Goa. Best time to visit the state is from July to February. The most hot weather prevails here in April and May, when the temperature reaches up to the mark of 40 degrees.

MANDVI
The 6 kilometre beach of Ahmedpur Mandvi in Gujarat will please with the bright sun, dense white sand, suitable for long walks by rote, and the azure water, which is so pleasing to enjoy sitting in the lounge.
The beach is a paradise for lovers of water sports. You can rent scooters, go water-skiing and surfing or sit behind the wheel of speed motor boats and float away into the turquoise sea. In addition, the surrounding waters are good for catching fish, and the fishing and cooking on the coals on the beach can easily give meaning to the day. Or you can just walk to the nearby fishing village, and get acquainted with the friendly locals and share their meal.

Not far from the shore stands the majestic Vijay Vilas palace, whose forms combine Indian, European and Islamic cultures. From a viewing platform an impressive view is opening on the palace itself and the ocean.
The closest airport is 150 kilometres away, in Keshod, to where the planes fly out of Bombay. The best time to travel is from November to February.

MARARIKULAM
There are no souvenir shops, beach bars and crowds of holidaymakers here. And this is the best place to spend lazy weekends on the beaches of state of Kerala. Life here moves slowly at the same rate as a decade ago, and every morning the fishermen go to the sea to return in the afternoon to the beach with the usual bountiful catches. The blue water and yellow sand inspire poetic mood and it seems as if you can exist forever
in this slow rhythm. And yet, on the bank a hut can be rented equipped with all necessary amenities, made in the image of the fishing lodges. At dawn you can go fishing, like local residents, and during the day engage in windsurfing or parasailing.

Do not miss your chance to go at least once for Ayurvedic massage in Marari Beach Resort. Pleasant sensations during the procedure with a mixture of aromatic oils and a sense of renewal after it is guaranteed.
Perhaps the solitary life of the beach will not last long; selected tourist industry is already here. So it is virtually the last chance to enjoy the local tranquillity.
The beach is located 90 kilometres from Kochi, which in turn is well connected with many regions. You can come here at any time of the year, but summers can be too hot.

PALOLEM
This picturesque crescent-shaped bay, almost on the edge of the South Goa is a perfect place where you can escape from the bustle of traditional tourist-filled resorts. It is better to stop in one of the huts on the shore, where there is everything for the full comfort of the Europeans.
Perhaps the single special tourist entertainment provided here is a trip by boat in order to watch the dolphins play. Also, it can be arranged with the local fishermen to visit one of the islands visible in the sea. The main occupation of the local audience is lying on the beach with a book.

By leaving on time for a walk to the left edge of the beach and by going down to the rocks, you can get to the picturesque island of butterflies, surrounded from all sides by toothed peaks.
In the evening you can sit in one of the small coastal restaurants: enjoy the freshest fish with beer and live music. And, of course, do not refuse to taste the local alcoholic drink Feni, made of coconut or cashew. However, when using it, caution should be observed. Intoxication is rapid and quite strong.
The only airport in Goa is situated 65 km from the beach. Go to Goa at any time, but so that not to suffer from crowds of tourists, it is better to avoid the period from December to February.