To make everything more compact we do offer to have a look at the topics separately.

1.Drinking

Japan: In case if you are in a café do avoid filling your own glass, you might give an impression of a alcoholic. Instead here it’s more usual to fill the glass of the person sitting next to you, while the person most often do turn the favor back.

Armenia: Here if you end up the bottle liquid in somebody else’s glass, it means that you make the person, to pay for the second bottle. In case if this is not what you wish, you better end up the bottle liquid in your own glass.

Australia: In this interesting country, the drinks are being bought each time by another person. This goes as long as it gets to the last person sitting at the table. Thus it’s quite impolite to leave, unless it’s your turn to get the drink.

Russia: Russians use vodka mainly for the toasts and not just for drinking. Aftet the toast, the men need to empty the glasses while for the female it’s not a requirement. And just another tip- do not place the empty bottles of vodka on the table, those need to be put on the floor.

Sweden: In Sweden it’s quite impolite to drink aside, you just need to go with the flow of the toasts.

Italy: It might sound to be funny, but in Italy you’re forbidden to order cappuccino after noon. Well, it’s not a typical crime, but something called culinary crime leading to the evil eye. In case if you want to order espresso and that’s too strong you can replace it with macchiato, which has a portion of milk in it.

2. Table Manners

Japan: Here if you order noodles, it’s quite polite to make various kinds of noises. Thus you do not need to fill uncomfortable using even your lips to get the noodles into the mouth.

Various Asian Countries: In case if you are serving rice, do never stick the chopsticks into the plate upright- this is the most typical case for serving rice to dead. The idea is the same with passing the food with the chopsticks, as it’s another traditional Buddhist funeral custom- this way the family of the dead person is being passed the remains of the cremated deceased.

Russia: In Russia it’s quite impolite to put the elbows on the table, you need to put your hands half part to the elbows while eating or holding something. As for the table supplies you need to keep your fork in your left hand and knife in your right.

Nepal: In Nepal self-serving is not a typical case. You need to wait until you get served. And it’s also polite to wait until everyone’s seated. And this needs to be done unless everybody finished eating. In case if you need to leave early, you need to make a special excuse by saying bistaii khaanus which means ‘please eat slowly.’”

Portugal: In case if you’re visiting a Portugese restaurant and you see that there are no salt and pepper, it’s actually impolite for asking them. This might be viewed as a offense to the cook- doubting at the professionalism of the cook. The thing is that cooks are highly appreciated in this country.

France: In France one of the main topics to be avoided while at the table is money. And this means that the presence of the money bill is the best thing.

Mexico: In case if you see somebody’ eathing even if it’s a stranger you need to reply ‘Provecho’, which is the same as ‘Bon Appetite’. It’s just a custom that makes the people to get touched.

3. Tipping and Bargaining

Japan: The idea of tips is not that popular in this country. Here you need to avoid giving tips to everyone. In case if your tip is in the form of the cash, you need to place it in an envelope. For the other cases you might choose to give gifts instead of the tips.

Russia: Russians in most of the cases include 10% tips in cheaper restaurants in cafes, as for the better restaurants, you might try giving the same 10% as a tip and no more.

Mexico: Here the prices in stores are never firm. Almost for all kind of goods and souvenirs you can get the price much lower than the one offered at the first glance.

Brazil: Tipping here is the same way as in Russia- around $10. As for the hotels, this is not the case. Nobody’s paying money to the hotel employees and it’s not even expected from them. The case is the same with the taxi drivers.

4. Body Language

UK: Do not use your index and middle fingers up in the way opposite you palm. Here it’s equivalent to the middle finger. Anyways if you want to order something like two bottles of beer you better stick up with the symbol similar to the peace sign- the same move only showing your palm.

Greece: In Greece the move popular in US as waving- showing your palm has another meaning. In this country, this means to reject someone, more generally it has a meaning of the suffix “diss” and not a friendly gesture.

Asia: In Asia the lowest part of the body- foot is forbidden to be used as a direction marker. In case if you accidently touch somebody by feet, you need to put your hand on their shoulder or arm and apologize. And the case is similar to the highest part of the body- head. You should avoid touching somebody’s hair. And just another thing- never sit on pillow- it’s a taboo.

Thailand: While in Thailand do not get surprised if somebody picks their nose while talking, this is considered to be a marker of good hygiene.

Nepal: In Nepal, one of the bad manners is to cross over somebody’s outstretched legs, thus you better ask them to give you some space. And do the same in return.

Japan: In Japanese baths, called osen, people always wash before entering the water. The water is considered fouled if someone does not act the appropriate way. And it’s always a requirement to cover your intimate parts of the body. For a good choice of hotels with discount prices, visit Tokyo Accommodation for more information.

Russia: Shaking hands as a sign of hello or goodbye across a threshold is considered to be an unlucky manner. Thus you either have to go out to the house/room or invite the corresponding person inside the door.

Of course, now there are professional fishermen, for whom this work is a profession, but they work on ships. As for the classic fishing -people continue to do it for fun. Some see it as a sport, while others believe the fishing – it is art. The only thing that has remained unchanged since the number of fans of this activity. Among them we can find representatives of different generations and different classes of society. People continue to fish for fun.

What is so special about this lesson? First of all, fishing provides an opportunity to calm down, to be alone with yourself and with nature, to understand their thoughts and feelings. It brings peace, while giving an excellent opportunity to experience a lot of positive. This unity with nature, since during the quiet hunt people can enjoy the beautiful and picturesque scenery, listen to birds singing and literally intermarry with Mother Nature.

Fishing in Vietnam

Vietnam  is a great place for amateur fishing. Off the coast of Vietnam, most often to catch such fish as tuna, sole (fish, salt), halibut, mackerel. The richest of these fish places are located in the central part of Vietnam from the province of Kwun Ngai to Binh Thuan province. Most marine fish and squid are in the waters off the island Condal. Freshwater fish can be found in rivers, lakes, artificial and Natural ponds and even in paddy fields, flooded with water. Private owners of these fields give you special fishing license, usually for a fee of $ 1 per hour.

In some reservoirs in an hour you can catch up to 10 kg of fish. Seaside fishing permit is required less frequently, such as on plantations seafood, pearls, at military bases.

Fishing in Egypt

The most interesting and rather busy  space for big catches of fish – this is Egypt. Resting  in this country always makes it possible for cool fishing. One-day fishing in the Red Sea will bring a lot of positive emotions, especially if you go on a walk with your wife and children. Comfortable yacht, wonderful opportunities for diving, reef, which can examine the mask – all this will be an excellent application in the process of catching fish. You might not be even surprised if you get a chance to appear in the sea with dolphins! You will really be pleased with the catch in this case. Fish of the Red Sea is not fat, but mostly for the diet, very tasty – you can eat it every day, and it does not get boring. But as the sea itself is very salty, running hard – the fish muscular and energetic. Getting more big fish on board takes great work!

If you are an active supporter of the fishing in the great man’s company, buy tours to Egypt for six days and go on safari – away from the crowded coast, where fish are always smaller. Your catch can be instances of a length and a half meters. You can catch a huge fish, barracuda, or sailboat, grouper, tuna, karanksa, wahoo. Freshwater Fishing in Egypt represented excursion to Lake Nasser, but large and beautiful fish will release into the lake after a photo shoot – they are protected by the laws of Egypt.

Fishing in Iceland

Iceland – a country extremely interesting in terms of fishing, there is a winding fjords and eternal glaciers, mountains and volcanoes, hot springs with geysers, beautiful waterfalls on mountain rivers, where summer comes to spawning salmon …

Iceland – one of the world’s centers of sport fishing. The fish is literally jumping over the water, and only a man devoid of passion and indifferent to the fresh trout can ignore its fun. Fishing at sea can be very attractive , because of the warm Gulf Stream, so the climate is much milder than might have been expected. Because of warm currents here there is a lot of fish. To your attention can be presented fishing versions of several kinds: salmon with providing a full range of services (accommodation, meals, guide service), and the provision of partial services (accommodation and fishing with self-catering), as well as trout fishing and sea fishing.

Fishing in Tunisia

Tours to Tunisia in North Africa as well introduce you to all the possibilities for a full fishing, sometimes very interesting, with national characteristics. For example, on the coast of Tunisia, and especially on the island of Djerba, in the Gulf of Gabes, during your catch you can come across with such wonderful living creatures like sponges. Here  there are  mined corals – but in places like Bizerte and Tabarka. Fishing in Tunisia is of three kinds. Extraction of “blue fish” is made after sunset, when light of a lantern, which is used as bait.

Thus catch sardines, pilchards, anchovies, mackerel, tuna and tuna-bonito. For fishing boats lined up one after another in the form of trains. Catch the light is very common in Kelibii in Sousse, Mahdia, in, in Zarzis in Bizerte. The second type of fishing in Tunisia – it’s catching white fish in coastal waters. For such fish include groupers, sea bream and red mullet. The third type of fishing – fast trawling on the high seas. In this way, you can catch squid.

Fishing in Finland

Pure and rich fish ponds in Finland offer you almost unlimited opportunities for various kinds of fishing in Finland. You can get pleasure from the beautiful lake scenery, unique islands, many flowing rivers in the woods and river rapids. In blue water you can relax perfectly in harmony with nature.

Fishing in Finland will leave wonderful impressions from everyone – from experienced anglers and beginners, who took a fishing rod in his hands during a vacation just for fun. At the facilities for fishing in Finland you can fish alone or take advantage of local trainers who will share with you their secrets and show the best places for fishing. And what could be tastier than yourself caught and cooked fish for dinner at the end of the day spent in nature? None foodie can resist such a temptation.

Fishing in Finland – it’s 187,888 lakes and 1100 km of coastline, as Finland – a country teeming with fish of rivers and creeks, canals and thresholds: their are thousands of miles away.

Fishing in Sweden

Length of Sweden is about 1600 km, which results in a wide variety of climate and environment from the south to the north of the country. Fish species, the duration of the season and the fishing methods will differ depending on the region of the country. Fishing in Sweden – a clean environment, natural landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. Map will help you find the main areas for fishing in Sweden.

The main types of fishing: – Fishing from boats. This method of fishing is very popular in Sweden. You can hire a boat with or without a motor and move freely from one fishing spot to another – Hooked on spinning – spinning fishing extended to a very large fish (pike, perch, salmon, trout) – Fishing on the fly – Fishing trolling – Winter fishing for the bait.

Images:

http://www.hrauneyjar.is/To-See-and-To-Do/Activities—to-do/Fishing-in-Freshwater_173/default.aspx

http://flyfishingfinland.blogspot.com/2010/01/midsummer-flyfishing-and-river-rafting.html

http://flyfishingguidesweden.weebly.com/

Heli-skiing (English “heliskiing”, which means “descent from the remote mountain slope on skis, which can reach only by helicopter), or heliboarding (” heliboarding “- descend the slope on the board) – a type of skiing , freeride, the essence of which is downhill, the presence of intact human snow slopes, far away from prepared slopes with a lift to the top of the descent by a helicopter. Using a helicopter to lift allows you to find different options for the going down  from the mountains in a pristine nature, which otherwise risse quite rapidly, there is no possibility of.

Heli-skiing as a kind of sport emerged in the 1960s, and since then has become more and more popular. Depending on the type of helicopter and its carrying capacity in a group of skiers it can hold a medium size amount of people (from 15 to 24). The group necessarily has an experienced guide or a few guides – professionals who know particular descent on certain slopes. In order to do heli-skiing without consequences for themselves, their physical and emotional state, skiers must be proficient in technology descent on virgin soil on the slopes of varying steepness.

To ensure safety, each skier must have a beacon, avalanche probe, shovel and other necessary equipment to quickly search for people caught in an avalanche – and it is not a rare phenomenon in mountain conditions. And this is the main way how the skiiers are getting themselves safe during the overall process.

Currently, the most popular in the world of mountain regions, providing opportunities for training heli-skiing, are Canada, Alaska (USA), Iceland, Greenland, New Zealand, the Himalayas, mountain areas in Northern Europe – Norway, Finland, Sweden, some areas Alps in Switzerland and France, the Chilean Andes, the Caucasus (the area of Krasnaya Polyana and Elbrus), Kamchatka.

 But … we will not go on holding programs heli-skiing somewhere in Norway or Iceland, where you will be faced by the cold weather  but instead to the warm, good-natured and friendly Central Asia, and specifically the Central Asian states such as Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. Within these three countries such extreme sport can be practiced on the slopes of the West (Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan) and North (Kazakhstan), the Tien Shan.

In Uzbek, Kyrgyz and Kazakh mountains, they will provide you with all the conditions for good quality time spent and prepared holiday. You will need only to trust the hosting companies and the tour guides and set off towards adventures. In fact, it does not matter you are a professional skier, or just beginning to learn this sport, most importantly in this case – the courage, resourcefulness, a desire to experience something extraordinary and released from the depths of his body as much adrenaline.

Certainly, the success of the program of the heli-skiing is directly dependent on the weather conditions, snow conditions and the level of avalanches. And, unfortunately, there is no guarantee that  you wille be provided  a cool extreme or will get in connection with the “force majeure” circumstances. Therefore, in case of bad weather, you willl most definitely be offered a variety of options for changing the program or the location of the sporting.

Thus, if the Tien Shan meets you up with bad weather, you can ride the trails of ski resorts or take a tour of the ancient cities of Uzbekistan (or Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan) – Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, Tashkent, exotic and oriental flavor which does not leave anyone indifferent, and especially those who are fortunate enough to visit them. They even say that the travel experience turns out to be one of the most unforgettable ones.

To implement the program of heli-skiing, a specific type of helicopters is being used . Those are Russian helicopters Mi-8 MTV “, which are considered to be the best options among the all. Helicopters of this model have a powerful engine and are ideally suited for use in the mountains. Maximum in a helicopter can accommodate 15 – 16 people to ski including the trainers themselves. Pilots are highly experienced and are well-familiar with areas that are suitable for the implementation of the  heli-skiing, and possess the skills of flying in the mountains. Group is accompanied by at least two guides, one of whom is an engineer.

 In the helicopter there is all that is necessary to get the equipments. As for the safety is also includes everything necessary for the rescue and transportation equipments, GPS, satellite phone.

For driving on snowy slopes for skiers need to have personal equipment and clothing as well as avalanche beacons (bippery “), avalanche probes and avalanche shovels. By the way, some equipment can also be ordered, but only in the case of a provisional application. Insurance is mandatory for skiers. Moreover, it is necessary to purchase insurance, the maximum cover risks, and carefully check out how it works in the area where you go. This means that you must be ready to go through a list of territory testings and find the necessary location not only in the terms of the skiing comfort, but also the level of the desired security.

The minimum age for engagement for the heli-skiing or heliboarding is 18 years, however, it can be lowered to 14 years if the child is riding with their parents. But this is being done in some exceptional cases and also for only a few of the locations where the safety is guaranteed.

And finally what else is left for you to know: Do you have the desire to feel like a pioneer of mountain expanses, kind of  like Columbus of the Tien Shan Mountains? Then go ahead – towards the virgin expanse of white snow. Do not hesitate. The old Central Asian Mountains are awaiting for your arrival. In corresponse they will try to meet you with good weather and a  little fluffy piece of the snow for the heliskiing.

Image : http://passport.jetsetter.com/index.php/2010/09/27/12-epic-outdoor-adventures/

http://www.adventuretravel.ru/travels/eng/heliskiing/kyrg_heli.htm

Sea Leisure

As of January it has the most significant surge in the popularity of travel to exotic beach resorts of Asian countries. Tourist destinations on the shores of Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, India, Mauritius, Maldives and Seychelles are redeemed in advance. All of those are wonderful places to get an unusual January tan.

Equally popular are the Latin American Beach destinations. Beaches of Brazil, Cuba, Dominican Republic and other countries and Caribbean Islands are great for beach holidays. Tourists who prefer eco-tourism, will certainly draw attention to Costa Rica where there are no works of art, as well as no factories, but still suitable good hotels and beaches and jungles that saved nearly their pristine beauty.

The Canary Islands are also very attractive in January. Temperature of the water is just above +20 ° C. Almost perfect for those who cannot tolerate warm temperatures. But you can get a lot of impressions: the amazing nature and the ocean, and volcanoes, and lots of interesting excursions and night entertainments offered to the tourists.

In most of the popular beach countries and the tickets are cheaper in January, anyways as it’s winter. You can try to find a more or less warm weather in Egypt, but the winter holiday I would not recommend you to visit the sandy Egypt beaches. But to have a look at the pyramids of Giza and to explore the sights of Luxor is definitely worth it.

Guided Tours

January is such a diverse month that visitors should only understand their preferences and simply follow those. This Scandinavian winter can we witnessed during the sightseeing tours to Finland and Sweden. Norway and Denmark are also ready to invite tourists to the depths of winter. For many curious travelers such trips can be very informative, as in January, even though there are multiple places where the weather is equally cold, the streets and the nature however, looks completely different.

Winter is also a good time for tourist trips to the southern European countries. For example, in January in the cities of Spain and Portugal, the temperature ranges between +15 ° C and +20 ° C. There is a myth that while in Northern Europe it’s snowy and cold in the already mentioned Spain and Portugal, as well as Italy, Greece, Turkey and Egypt you can walk in a fairly light clothes and enjoy the warm and dry weather. You should not have illusions: the cold weather does host in these places, too and sometimes it even snows here. But for the rich sightseeing tours such temperatures approach is much better than tedious walk under the scorching sun in the midst of a beach holiday.

In January, you can also go to South America to personally visit the ruins of ancient Indian civilizations. In the mountains of Mexico and Peru tourists are being welcomed with undiscovered antiquities. No less exciting can be a trip to the coast of Brazil or the Amazon to the Andes in Argentina. Once in these places it’s worth visiting Chilean Easter Island as there are multiple interesting legends told about this unique place.

A budget trip can be done to Iran – ticket prices do not get increased in this country in January. India can turn into another good Asian vacation option as winter here is the season for tours. And here after long tours you can relax on the beaches of the Indian Ocean in Goa. Winter is great for the exotic travel to the Indian neighbor Nepal – to stay in a monastery for meditation, climb round all the temple complexes of Kathmandu in the absence of crowds, flying over the Himalayas.

Finally, in January you can always have a very successful trip to South Africa. Here, tourists are waiting for the sandy beaches and breathtaking trips to national parks, home to a variety of African animals. The place is also known for a large number of unique plants. Those who feel confident in diving will definitely take the advantage of the trip and have a visit to the local sharks and huge turtles.

Alpine Skiing

In January, ski opportunities in Europe provide a wide expanse of the imagination. Skiing and snowboarding can be done in any country where there are mountains and ski lifts. Connoisseurs of these mountains are going to France, Austria and Germany. Those seeking a more peaceful and elegant vacation prefer Italy. Andorra turns into a Ski Mecca for those who love to save due to the reasonable prices and very comfortable hotels to stay in.

If the height of the mountains is not taken into importance, the skiing can be a very successful ride in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia and Poland. This pretty cold time of year is ideal for ski resorts in Finland, Sweden and Norway, but for many tourists the opportunity to take real sauna after skiing during the day is the main reason to choose one of the Scandinavian countries.

Now the ski resorts – it’s not just a place where tourists are involved in skiing. In recent years, the fundamental is the word “resort”. Now, having arrived in the Alps or the Pyrenees, the tourist gets the chance to relax in the spa-centers, to enjoy sunbathing on the observation deck in the mountains, visit the fascinating excursions, enjoy a good international cuisine at expensive restaurants, ride a dogsled and paragliding.

Ski holidays in January are good as the snow is almost guaranteed in all the most popular resorts. The only exception is perhaps that of Turkey, but the ski vacation in this country is quite specific, and usually preferable to those tourists, for whom the sports component is not that important.

Pic sources: http://www.braziltravelvacation.com/brazil-beaches-image-02.html,http://www.csmonitor.com/Environment/Bright-Green/2009/1007/world-monuments-2010-list-ranges-from-dockyards-to-cave-art, http://beautiful-views.com/miss_world/alpsmountains.html

Switzerland

According to many seasoned travelers, there is no country in the world which is more positive, safe and independent for travel than Switzerland. And, without leaving it, you will get the impression as if you visited several countries: the Business style of Zurich and Lucerne will remind you of old Germany, the bustling capital city of Geneva and Lausanne of the Olympic Games -France, picturesque Locarno – about Italy. Specially designed tours will allow you to travel to Switzerland on foot, on bicycles, on the trains and much more.

Austria

Travelling to Austria is simply a pleasure: it’s convenient, comfortable and safe. No one would have to discuss whether to go today to listen to the music of Mozart, to walk through the parks, to see the palaces, to take a cruise on the Danube, or to taste local wines in any of the wineries. Large cities and tiny villages are united by various types of railway network, so you can easily reach every corner of this country. Isn’t this fantastic?

Sweden

A quiet peaceful life of Swedish province will help you to have a measured vacation for the lovers of solitude and loneliness. Vacation for a week while traveling on trains and buses, cycling or skiing, breathing pure oxygen (Sweden is not leaving the upper lines rankings of countries with the good air), living in tiny cottages on the shores of clear lakes, enjoying the northern nature. Bored in the village? Spend a few days in the magically beautiful Stockholm: ride a boat, go to a list of top museums, get shopping: in the Swedish capital there are many curious designer boutiques over there.

Germany

If you are thinking to spend time in Germany, before you will appear almost an impossible task – to choose where to go. In this largest European country there are so many opportunities for rest that you get all confused what to choose: whether to go into a conservative burgher Bavaria or to a modern multinational metropolis of Berlin, Cologne to see a Gothic or meet directly with several medieval castles in the Rhine valley. Using the local perfectly punctual urban and intercity transport is so simple that with this case that it is available even to the person who does not know foreign languages and has never been abroad.

Netherlands

To come to Amsterdam alone and to get lost among its narrow streets and canals – is this not the dream of any traveler? But necessarily highlight a few days outing in the country, hire a bike and ride the dunes along the ocean coast – a journey tiring and safe. Caught in the Netherlands in the spring season, do not forget to plan a visit to huge spring Flower Park called Keukenhof.

Tunisia

Certainly, European countries are safer, but that is not reason to rest only within the EU. On the other continents there are many countries where foreigners can feel confident. Due to its unique location in North Africa on the Mediterranean Sea, Tunisia became a popular holiday destination for the tourists from Britain, Italy, France and Russia. Keeping the local color in the mosque, noisy bazaars, cafes, where the smoke slowly takes huge rings,it became one of the most progressive countries of the Muslim world. In this former French colony Art Nouveau style in the building, the language of the colonialists and even the tradition of winemaking. This means that you will be able to have a French-African-Arabic experience and all of this in a single trip.

Egypt

Egyptians believed to be very friendly people and almost the most hospitable in the Middle East. Moreover, this state is characterized by respect for one’s own culture and history and political stability, so Egypt is a beautiful country for single travelers. Of course, not everyone likes the chaos of Cairo, but you can always choose to stop at the pyramids of Luxor, a cruise on the Nile or on holiday on the coast of Dahab, Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh.

Vietnam

It seems that recently the country has been tormented by a terrible war, but today it is as friendly and hospitable hostess which will be happy to welcome visitors from all over the world. Borrow a bike and it will make a tour of villages and dense forests along the coast, or spend a week on the beaches of Phu Quoc Island, visit the temples and pagodas of the spiritual center of the country – Hue and not forget to drop to the beautiful capital – Hanoi.

Laos

Laos – now a cult destination for single travelers. Like Vietnam, this war-torn country has now become a peaceful haven for the weary tourism civilization. However, in contrast to Vietnam, they were lucky enough to be able to save their original culture, and pristine nature. It is one of the cleanest places in the South-East Asia. We recommend you take a trip to the Mekong River, relax in an interesting place – the capital of Vientiane and visit the ancient royal city of Luang Prabang – the most important Buddhist center of the country, and even better – to live in a real village and feel like a local resident. All of this is possible and safe.

Costa Rica

Those who visited Costa Rica once, necessarily come back, because during a single trip you can not go rafting on the river Reventazon, go to horseback riding, see the volcanoes and geysers of the national park near the Rincon de la Vieja volcano, or just lie on the list of Pacific Ocean beaches. And doing all of this alone is absolutely secure. Incidentally, this is one of the few peaceful states, where there are no armed forces.

1. Japan

The first place ranking includes country of the Rising Sun. Its citizens are renowned for their long lives. With consumption of a large number of cruciferous vegetables such as kale, broccoli, zucchini, local residents differ harmony. And fish and soy used as the main source of protein promote a healthy heart. In addition, many Japanese are taught from childhood that rise from the table should done when you are still a little hungry because greediness is not typical for them.
The degree of obesity of the nation: 1,5%
Life expectancy: 82 years

2. Singapore

It may seem strange that a fairly monotonous diet, 80% consisting of rice, was named one of the healthiest in the world. However, Singaporeans seize rice with lots of vegetables. Fish and meat are being used as the main source of protein in various culture, are extremely rare on the tables of local residents. The passion to satisfy the hunger for sweet things Singaporeans are eating fresh tropical fruits or something cooked out of them such as puddings and casseroles without adding sugar.
The degree of obesity of the nation: 1,8%
Life expectancy: 82 years.

3. China

That version of Chinese cuisine, which you can while having a visit to your hometown Chinese restaurant is quite far from what the Chinese are eating at home. Basic diet is made up of various vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes. Chinese cabbage, daikon, soy, ginger and garlic can be found everywhere. By the way, the last two spices miraculously speed up metabolism and promote harmony. As frying everything is extremely fast, literally taking only a few seconds, then this method of cooking food saves vitamins and minerals.
The degree of obesity of the nation: 1,8%
Life expectancy: 73 years

4. Sweden

It is unlikely that life expectancy is associated exclusively with the Swedish food habits. Most likely, the strong influence of the high level of medicine and life care in general. In this northern country they use only a little of fruits and vegetables and the basic diet are dairy products, brown bread, fish and berries. Calcium in dairy products helps the body to burn fat, fiber-rich rye bread and berries contain many antioxidants. And even the habit of eating oily fish such as salmon and herring might be considered reasonable as a good food for the heart. Except of the food Swedish are regularly skiing almost all year round and thus burning the fat.
The degree of obesity of the nation: 11%
Life expectancy: 81 years

5. France

Most people have heard a lot about the famous French paradox. This nation does not gain weight, despite the ardent love of the fatty cheese and chocolate, which certainly can not be called low-calorie. The secret lays in the fact that French do not have the traditional for many other countries, “snacks” and except this the portions served at main meals are so small that the body does not get excess calories. Despite the fact that the French are not shy to use the oil, they use it rarely, preferring hot food processing to be with more healthy methods: such as baking or stewing.
The degree of obesity of the nation: 6,6%
Life expectancy: 81 years

6. Italy

Traditional Italian cuisine has little to do with the huge portions of pizza or pasta, with plenty of meat and liberally seasoned with cheese, which are so popular in Italian restaurants around the world. In Italy itself people prefer to use more vegetables and legumes for their dishes, and pasta which is always made of durum wheat!  It is being used in very small quantities and not as a main dish. In addition, as it is known, Italians love olive oil, which is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, and promotes healthy heart. The main methods of cooking are usually grilling, cooking, baking or steaming.
The degree of obesity of the nation: 13%
Life expectancy: 80 years

7. Spain

Remembering the famous Spanish Serrano ham, jamon, you are unlikely to desire considering the kitchen of this nation to the healthy ones. But remember that jamon is being served with almost transparent slices, and as a snack rather than a main dish. The foundations of the Mediterranean diet are the fiber-rich vegetables and low-fat products. Spaniards look to cook in olive oil, using plenty of vegetables and legumes, and in addition, to eat a lot of seafood varieties, which are so much in Spain. Citrus and almonds, growing in this country, can also be attributed to the extremely useful food. Here frying is rarely used when cooking. Most used baking, stewing or cooking food.
The degree of obesity of the nation: 16%
Life expectancy: 80 years

8. South Korea

The basis of the Korean diet is low-fat foods: tofu, noodles, fish and vegetables. In addition, a significant place in Korean cuisine is placed on kimchi – seasoned with lots of hot spices pickled vegetables, which are eaten at breakfast, lunch and dinner. The only unhealthy meal of Korean cuisine, grilled beef, though loved by locals, but is used only on major holidays. For comparison, the average Korean eats just 7 pounds of meat in a year, while the ordinary citizen of the United States – 30 kilograms.
The degree of obesity of the nation: 10%
Life expectancy: 79 years

9. Israel

Israeli cuisine is full of such useful products such as beans, eggplant and olive oil. Also, when cooking they use a large variety of spices and herbs. There’s even a plant called yellow ginger growing only in Israel which contains many useful components that improve the digestion and metabolism. Mint, which is unthinkable without the traditional salad Tabbouleh, in its turn, is rich in manganese and vitamins A and C. Tajin, the main ingredient in hummus, supplies the body zinc, calcium and folic acid.
The degree of obesity of the nation: 24%
Life expectancy: 81 years

10. Greece

American nutritionist convinced that the Greeks suffer from obesity not because their food is unhealthy, but because of the ever-present fast food. The true Greek cuisine is based on cereals, legumes, vegetables and fish which we might say that fully denies the presence of something unhealthy.
The degree of obesity of the nation: 25%
Life expectancy: 80 years

General conclusions of the study are as follows. Eat less meat and more fish and vegetables, do not get carried away with hot food in deep fat and then you are healthy. So if you decide to eat some healthy food find a cheap airfare to Europe and enjoy not only the sights and the sun but stay healthy as well.

Baobab Tree Bar & Wine Cellar, South Africa

In the hollow of a huge 6000-year-old baobab tree you can not only drink a cocktail, but also rest from the suffocating heat of the Limpopo province. Once this safe heaven was known only to the Bushmen, but now this ancient tree is the object of pilgrimage for all kind of tourists.  Finally the locals got the idea of setting a bar in the baobab and “decorate” it with benches and even a dartboard.

What to order: Anything in a stein.

The Birdsville Hotel and Pub, Australia

At the edge of the Simpson Desert, among the sand dunes, which is the favorite spot for the mice, there is a hotel and a pub, which have become a cult destination for all travelers. The walls of this bar, remote from civilization, are decorated with old hats and posters of beer, the oldest of which dates from 1884. Most visitors of this building are the amateur of racings. They come to this village for the September competition. However, the pub is not empty also on other months: the airstrip is located nearby, so those who arrive to this point the first thing they do after the flight, of course, are going to have a glass or two of beer.

What to order: a pint of “Queensland XXXX” brand beer.

Cave Bar, Jordan

In 2000-year-old city of Petra it’s allowed to use only one single cave for commercial issues. And guess what?  Of course that’s a bar. The walls of the cave, adjacent to the Crowne Plaza Resort – is part of the ancient tombs, hollowed out many centuries ago by the Nabataeans. Tables are set as a large area outside and inside the cave, where the lights cast an ominous reddish light on the bloody walls of rough sandstone. Some tables are hidden in niches, which may be intended for individual graves.

What to order: local Jordanian red wine.

Floyd’s Pelican Bar, Jamaica

It appears that these huge palm leaves and trunks of the once fallen into the ocean of trees for a long time floated on the waves and then just caught in the pile sticking out of the ocean. That’s probably how the Pelican Bar, located about a mile from the southwest coast of Jamaica was built on. Part of its visitors that have no room to be fitted inside the bar drink, standing waist-deep in water. Do not want to get to the bar by swimming? A couple of local fishermen are always ready to take you there from the beach for a few dollars. And do not forget to immediately agree with them on the way back – you yourself will not be able to reach the shore.

What to order: cocktail Pelican Perfection, made from rum, ginger beer, lime juice and sugar.

Lagoon Bar, Iceland

Magnificent Blue Lagoon in Iceland is truly the place where you can get rid of all troubles and misfortunes. Here the soothing warmth of hot springs treats nature. Of course, next to the natural spa would have been better to arrange trade in fruits, fresh juices and yogurt, but amid this idyllic opened a wonderful bar. While you’re sitting in a milky-blue hot water, waitresses dressed in bikinis, bring you a range of cocktails.
What to order: cocktail “Blue Lagoon”, white wine and Blue Curacao.

Alux Restaurant & Lounge, Mexico

Just a short taxi ride from the beach Carmen in Mexico there is an underground bar, where you might need to go by a candlelight. Overcoming the stairs brings you to the hall, filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Alux (pronounced “ah-LOOsh») – a whole system of caves, which are now established into a restaurant, bar, VIP-lounge. People are thinking that those who will be ready to spend here a lot of time will see the mythical “little people” who, according to the ancient Maya lived in these underground shelters from ancient times.

What to order: a strange drink Aluxinante made of cucumber, orange juice and mescal.

Absolut Icebar, Sweden

Ice Baris located in the Ice hotel in the small village Yukkasyarvi in northern Sweden – a seasonal restaurant, open only from mid-September to mid-April. Of course, all over the world regularly occur more and more ice bars, it is precisely this was the first to occur every year in the same place. It is traditionally constructed of huge blocks of ice, cut down from the nearby Torne River. Despite this cold wall, the temperature inside is kept around 23 degrees.

What to order: of course, vodka Absolut! But not the pure one, but rather with cranberry juice – the national fruit of Sweden.

Cova d’en Xoroi, Spain

Bar in a cave in the cliffs above the ocean – a favorite place for recreation for local residents and tourists vacationing in the south of Minorca. According to  the legend, once this cave served as a refuge for Turkish pirate who had stolen a local village girl to make her his wife. In the afternoon, habitués of the bar usually sit under umbrellas on the outdoor terrace, admiring the Balearic Islands. At night, the Cova d’en Xoroi belongs to the DJs who turn it into a disco.

What to order: Local favorite drink Pomada of gin and lemonade.

The Red Sea Star, Israel

In the Gulf near the town of Eilat is an underwater bar and restaurant. Its interior transfers visitors into the ownership of the Sea King: chairs resemble jellyfish lamps – anemones, wavy walls are surrounded with the windows from which you can watch the fish swimming by phlegmatic, butterflies, fish, angels and other inhabitants of the depths of the Red Sea.

What to order: any of the refreshing fruit cocktails decorated with umbrellas which will definitely continue the underwater theme.

Faraday Bar, Antarctica

This unusual bar is truly at the edge of the Earth- on the Antarctic island Galindez in the complex of the Ukrainian Vernadian Research Station. Apparently, the local staff needed such a place so much that they used for its construction the timber, sent by the British Government for the new shipyard (before the station was British). This bar is available not only for Ukrainian meteorologists – this will quench the thirst of any of tourist who came to the extreme south of the participants of expedition cruises.

What to order: obviously, vodka.

I think this list of questions is long enough to be answered to satisfy all of your interest. So let’s start our steps to the legend discovery!

ICEHOTEL

Some of you might argue that there is nothing special about the  hotel built of ice and snow as there are several of them now. But if this comes to the first and the biggest one in the world,  there is nothing to be proved. No surprise that the place couldn’t be left without an unusual story which will be definitely told.

Just imagine a cool local river Torne which flows right in the middle of the village, the cold arctic climate, The Northern Light and the Midnight Sun which will appeal you with their charm.

Every season brings a unique and various atmosphere to the place. This doesn’t mean that there is a specific season for visiting the place but rather it’s good to know what to expect of each season.

The ICEHOTEL is not only one of the upper creations of  the human brain, but also a great combination of the human effort and the natural wonders.

You cannot simply call it a seasonal creation- it’s simply an art masterpiece which is being enhanced and richen every winter – creating a Swedish Lapland fairy tale.

If relying on the customer comments each of them gets so much of impressions that the sharing of them influences to the visit of their friends to this unique white snow castle.

Jukkasjärvi

Jukkasjärvi is a cute village of 400 year history, which has only 1000 inhabitants, but soon after you get introduced with some of them you simply get amazed. You’ll never guess that they have a list of very interesting stories to tell. The local miffs and the fairy tale creatures create a unique atmosphere around the place. The name of the village if translated sounds like “a gathering place”. If taking into account the fact that the villagers here are rather practical- the naming is not a coincidence. It is a gathering place where people over the country arrive to participate in annual fair.

The place is truly a culture mixture of Sami, Finnish and Swedish traditions. This adds even more exotic feeling to the place. You’ll never have a feeling that you are in Europe and not at the end of the earth. The winter is even more appealing here than the summer time. It’s the season of skiing and skating and also making fun with the snow and art combination.

The summer time here is rather quite. It’s an ideal place for those who are seeking to peace and silence, while associated with great food and the wilderness of the mighty river Torne.

History

In late 70s and the early 80s the main resource for the place was considered to be the water rafting, soon some other types of activities were added such as training over the survival of the region, fishing tips and canoeing. That’s the main reason why large groups of tourists started to make their vacations spent here. If at the beginning there were only business conferences and midnight sun viewers to visit the place, soon the picture shifted right to the opposite.

The main problem to be solved was to make something gorgeous to make the tourists to visit the place also during the winter time. This sounds to be a tough issue. And actually it was. The thing is that the neighboring countries were too popular to leave a spot for such a tiny village.

That’s how one of the local employees got the idea that they “are not using all of the ice in the Torne River”. Not long after some Japanese snow and ice masters visited the place. They organized a special seminar over the ice sculptors. The locals got really enthusiastic over the project and decided to try themselves in this field.Only a year after the first awesome building was created in the place. It was an art exhibition. The tourists flow to the place increased multiple times.

1992 was the starting point for the guest hosting. The thing is that the small village hotel didn’t have enough rooms and one of the employees suggested to host some of the guests in the exhibition room. The only thing that somehow bothered the exhibitors was the fact how the guests will handle the overnight stay in this icy room. That’s why a detailed instruction of security was told to the guests and they were given sleeping bags.

The upcoming morning was not only a surprise for the exhibitors to hear a long list of anxious comments but also for the guests – to receive a special diploma of -5C temperature survival. This was the most exciting PR action for the hotel. The tourist flows to the place never stopped until now.

Starting point

The starting point for the creation of the hotel is various year by year- the main hint is the time when the temperature goes below the zero by several degrees. That’s when the most creative artists all over the world visit the place to show their abilities.

As the local culture is unique- none of the artists uses anything else rather than the pure water-ice of the Torne River.

All of this takes a lot of effort and hard work for several days and sometimes even several weeks. The buildings turn out to be so fabulous that none of the creators thinks about the fact that it will be melted together with the spring sun rays- the impressions and the reactions of the tourist are just unforgettable together with the charming photos.

Just take a few minutes at the listing of the most interesting musical festivals in Europe and try to get tickets as they are never enough for all!

Netmage
Italy, 21-23 January 2010

One of the most recent musical trends is cinematographic festivals. So as it is expected in one of the best places of the Italy in Bologna is going to host such a festival soon, in January 2010. It will be providing various kinds of contemporary electronic art and will impress the audience with a range of surprise shows. In the framework of the festival lays the sense of improvisation and unusual atmosphere, created through various audio-visual effects. It might sound a little bit surprising but all of this will be surrounded by the buildings created during the Renaissance era in one of the most beautiful cities.

Springfestival
Austria, 12-15 May 2010

Each year for the May weekend, which is being announced to be the Ascension Day, the majority of clubs in the Austrian Graz transform their stages into the places of performance to the participants of  various  electronic music and art festivals. The program includes all kind of genres: Drum’n'bass dubstep, electro, techno, house, breakbeat, hiphop, reggae, raga and others. And all of this is being represented by not more not less than 250 professional and newer music groups. As the main background of the festivals serves the alpine scenery. In addition to musical performances, you can participate in seminars around various aspects of the creation of electronic music, to improve your skills concerning the audio and video, and learn a lot of new things about the electronic art in overall.

Hellfest
France, 18-20 June 2010

As we all know France is always trying not to be over- left by the neighbor countries with its variety of musical festivals. Like all good festivals this “heavy metal” one, seems to be a place where it is possible to imagine ghosts wandering around at night or looking for a meeting with their friends. In 2010, the headliner of the festival will be one of the most popular rock groups- Kiss.

St Magnus Festival
Scotland, Orkney Islands, 18-23 June 2010

For fans of the classic music the most outstanding opportunities will be Orkney Arts Festival the superior proposal of the next year. Here you will not enjoy a lot of performances of popular bands, but also witness famous poets reading their own poems, and soloists performing classical works. And all of this will just be at the backdrop of the picturesque Scottish island. As for the participation is not required to be a professional but rather being able to accept new and fresh ideas in those classical art interpretation.

Gilles Peterson’s Worldwide Festival
France, 8-11 July 2010

This artist who has one of the world’s finest collections of music recordings, decided to have a representation of an insane combination of old and beloved Gil Scott Heron and the new stars Diplo French to the world in one of the awesome resorts  of France- Seth. Peterson festivals are considered to be the best and the most unusual ones among the fans of the electronic music due to a unique and original selection of performers. At this time the program is going to be finished by a fantastic 16-hour beach party on the resort town.

Tempo Latino
France, 22-25 July 2010

Salsa-lovers do not need to go to the faraway Brazil, to enjoy its rhythms and dancing for your pleasure. As before, the best festival of Latin music in 2010 will be held in Vic-Fezensac in late July. Here you can not only look at the best dancers, but also learn to dance yourself, and to more experienced ones- to learn new details of the moves. Moreover, master classes are conducted not only for adults but also for the children. Besides the main stage, concerts and dance parties are being held also in the local bars and restaurants.

Soundwave
Croatia, 23-25 July 2010

Although this Croatian Soundwave Festival is held in the old fishing village on the shores of the Adriatic Sea it is rather popular among the local and international audience. The action takes place either in the amphitheater or on the luxurious beach terrace, where you can get tanned under the afternoon sun, and the evenings promise not to be boring as you can dance till you drop until the morning. The beaches in this unique country that stretch for several kilometers are usually deserted and are always there to shelter the dance and music tourists, who got exhausted from the show. A delicious local cuisine will quickly restore power to you once again, so you can have fun enjoying the evening parties.

World Fleadh
Ireland, August 2010

Those who are just going crazy over the Celtic music simply cannot miss the Irish World Fleadh – a festival entirely devoted to Irish culture. You cannot just listen to music, but also have a glance at the inflammatory national dances, or even learn how to join them with simple movements, as well as participate in various performances. The festival makes it possible to distinguish guests and the locals, so you better buy a national costume to make yourself invisible.

No Fun
Sweden, September 2010

If you are familiar with the reputation of Brooklyn Festival No Fan, which is full of sticky traders, special effects overdone by the sound operators, and the atmosphere itself contributes to the noise of the public, then is might be rather weird if you will choose Sweden as a quiet and calm place for the European counterpart. The fall of 2010 in Stockholm, will be interesting especially for the fans of Wolf Eyes and Hair Police. I guess after these name announcements it becomes clear what happened to the “quite Europe” idea.

Iceland Airwaves
Iceland, November 2010

During the entire duration of the festival it seems like the capital of Iceland just breaths with it. Streets which are always overcrowded with music fans and the submission of bands of any genre are both in big clubs, and in tiny attics or cafes with only a few tables. If you are getting tired of loud music or excessive alcohol, it is possible to get a “detoxification» while spending a tour on a snowmobile, or close to the geysers.

Hotel-plane, Costa Rica
In the national park Manuel Antonio, located in 160 kilometers from the capital, there are lots of nice hotels and bungalows. The most original of them is built within a small vintage Boeing 727. From its illuminator-windows, opens up a magnificent view of the ocean coast. Liner was released in 1965 and served as faith-truth airlines of South Africa and Colombia, is set at a height of 15 meters above the ground. It has only a  couple of bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen and dining room. The decoration of the rooms includes trees and hand-made furniture. The outside of the plane  there is a lovely wooden terrace . To reserve such a housing-plane will cost you $400 per day in no season (without taxes) and for 500 – during the season.

Hotel-plane, Sweden
Transit passengers will definetely get a chance for renting a hotel room somewhere nearby,  but the case with the hostels is rather difficult?  What can do those who doesn’t want to pay for a room ? In the Stockholm Arlanda airport, it was decided to set up a hostel in write-offs “jumbo” – “747″. The huge ship can place 85 guests. They may stay in small rooms, compartments with bung beds and flat panel TVs. The most spacious and expensive room – is drivers cab: with the panoramic view of the runway. It is clear that maids, who serve guests, are uniformed as stewardesses Bed in a hostel costs 350 Swedish kronor (about 34 Euros), individual single room will cost 950 Croons (92 Euros).

Hotel-tram, Netherlands
A couple  opened their own exclusive hotel by restoring old trams in Germany and Netherlands. The name of the hotel was announced Tram Hotel  in honor of the famous album of the singer Prince. Initially there were four thematic numbers in the hotel: English, American, Italian, and French.  Not so long ago the ” family” of the trams was enlarged by adding a wagon train. Guests will  not be made huddled in the compartment for sure. The spacious room has everything – from great TV to the spacious bath-tub shaped hat (in fact the main theme of the new rooms is Mexico). And the hotel owners themselves have settled in standing nearby two-story London bus, built the house. The cost of living is from 60 Euros per person per night.

Hotel-train, United States
In Southern U.S. state of Arizona, in the hotel Karrels Double K Ranch, guests can settle in a freight car. Thoug it was going by rail in the beginning of last century and now turned into an original and relatively inexpensive hotel. In the car all three rooms have a private bathroom, telephone, TV and refrigerator. And guests are not attracted so much by exotic views or decorations but by cozy and charming homely atmosphere. There is a garden with huge cacti and exotic flowers around. Hosts created little toy town with little houses between them on the tiny train ride the train. Living in a freight car is worth $135 per night for two people.

Hotel-ship, Sweden
If you are not  bothered  to spend the night in a room with strangers, you can stay in a very inexpensive hostel-hotel-ship in the heart of Stockholm. The ship was built in 1950 and plied the North Sea. The last voyage of the spacecraft was completed  in 2005, and was then converted into hotel. 45 rooms-cabins are designed for 130 people. On board there is a restaurant and grill bar. Night in a room with 11 neighbors will cost 220 kronor (21 Euros), individual accommodation – 750 crowns for a single or double room (73 Euros).

Hotel-ship, Russia
One can live on a ship at the heart of  Russia- in its capital. River cruise ship “Alexander Blok”, built in 1984, is now converted into a floating hotel and moored near the Fairgrounds in Krasnopresenk embankment. In the hotel there is a complex of 31 rooms. The list includes cabins, junior suites and suites. Facilities include a restaurant and beauty salon. The cheapest room (cabin for two persons) with shower and toilet, TV and refrigerator costs about 3640 rubles per night.

Hotel-helicopter, U.S.
The first hotel helicopter was built in the United States not long ago. IThe Soviet Mi-18 aircraft serves as a basis for it. Miracle Hotel has made its first test flight, and will soon begin booking rooms. The air-hotel consists of 16 standard rooms and 2 suites. All of them are equipped with the latest technology: LCD screens in rooms, internet. Guests have an opportunity for  not just sitting in a restaurant, but  to go to the fitness center, to take the SPA-procedures and relax in a small Japanese garden among the greenery and fountains. Wanna go there? The news of this unique hotel appeared only six months ago . Unfortunately, it was only an April fool’s joke. However, it is possible that soon someone from hoteliers will take advantage of making this idea into reality.