SPACECOASTNATURETOURS

Japan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia, thanks, largely, to the wealth of things to see and do in the country. For budget travelers and backpackers from the West, Japan has also emerged as a very popular recently – budget travelers flock here to sample its unique culture, excellent food, and impressively cheap accommodation.

Thanks to its mix of bustling metropolises and countryside idylls, Japan is a perfect travel spot for just about anyone. Here, then, is a quick round-up of how to go about spending your time in the country…

Traveling in Japan
There are many ways in which you can travel in and around Japan. The most popular tourist attraction is the bullet train. These trains, though now in use in many countries around the world, were initially made famous in Japan. For tourists from all over the globe, the experience of traveling at speeds of about 300 kilometers per hour is one for the scrapbook. Another great thing about travel in the cities of Japan is that commuter trains have special cars reserved only for women. Especially during the rush hour, when the trains are crowded, these cars offer respite for women travelers who can travel hassle-free.

Cities in Japan
For the budget traveler in Japan, there are a number of cities that veritably scream for attention. Tokyo remains a very popular city with tourists thanks to its cosmopolitan culture and great vibrancy. This is the capital of Japan and it’s a city so full of life it inevitably leaves an indelible mark on the minds of those who visit. For those who are more inclined to view the traditional aspects of Japanese culture and society, Kyoto is perhaps the city to be in, as it offers a range of memorable traditional experiences (it’s also marginally cheaper than Tokyo, which always helps for those traveling with money on the mind!). Kanazawa is also a city that retains a strong sense of history and any backpacker interested in Japan through the ages would be well advised to include a stay here on their itinerary.

What to see in Kyoto?
Once you are in Kyoto, the Imperial Palace and its beautiful gardens are a must see. Quite simply, this is the stuff backpackers’ dreams are made of, featuring beautiful architecture and chilled-out tranquil grounds. The ideal time to visit the gardens is during the spring when the cherry trees are in full blossom, resulting in a riot of colors that make for great photo opportunities.

Things to do in Kyoto:

Meditation is a great thing to do for the backpacker in Kyoto. Meditation is a part of Japanese culture and for those who want to experience it to the fullest, it is a must do. You can try it out in Taizo-in or Shunko-in, which have Zen meditation sessions that are free to attend. All you have to do is to make reservations well in advance.

Make it a point to visit Kyoto during the cherry blossom season. This is the time when you get to see the best of nature in Japan. For the backpacker who is intent on seeing the best sights of the country, the walk along the road known as the ‘Philosopher’s Path’ (from Nanzen-ji to Ginkaku-ji) which abounds in cherry trees and shrines, is certainly one worth taking.

Where to stay in Kyoto?
Located close to the Imperial Palace, the Kamo River and the university, the Kyoto Globetrotters Hostel is a cheap and clean hostel for backpackers. It is a Kyoto hostel that is ideal for budget travelers because it offers the basic facilities at a very good price. Among Kyoto hostels, the Urban Hotel Kyoto often proves a popular choice thanks to its facilities and all-round comfort. This is a three-star hotel that nonetheless comes at an affordable price.

The mesmeric capital of Delhi is an eclectic blend of old and new. With age old settlements on one side and dazzling shopping malls on the other, the city bewilders guests with its variety. Tourists with great love for monuments of ancient and medieval times find solace here. There are a number of hotels in Delhi to provide them with quality accommodation in the city. The city which is seat of power from time immemorial attracts thousands of tourists from India and abroad.

The city is replete with various monuments of medieval times that speak volumes about its glorious history. Its prosperity and popularity has transcended all the geographical boundaries and incessant upsurge in tourist’s arrival is a living testimony of the fact. As per some beliefs, Delhi was the capital of Mahabharta age kingdom of Kaurava and Pandavas and was known as Indraprastha. The city was also known as Hastinapur. The remnants of former were present till the 19th century. Later on the British destroyed the village to construct the present capital of New Delhi. Although the remnant of Mahabharta age is nowhere in sight but it has added a glorious account in Indian history. Tourists from different corners of the world come to explore its glorious past.

Besides, the city is home to a host of tourist attractions that attracts tourists with their charm. During their stay at hotels of New Delhi the tourist can explore the various tourist attractions that include Jama Masjid, Red Fort, Chandani Chowk, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate, Lakshminarayan and Connaught Place.

In post-independence era the city has emerged as one of the major centers of trade and industry and it has achieved exponential growth in different sectors. The ongoing developments in the city have prompted the need of hotels in Delhi. There are various kinds of hotels in the city that include 5 star, 4 star, 3 star and budget hotels in the city. Every category of hotels has its own features and tariff depends on facilities and services offered.

So, make a trip to the city and enjoy the quality hospitality of Delhi hotels.

Entering June, it’s possible to imagine a deep blue sky and plateaus covered in tall grass blowing in the wind, this is one of the most special and most untouched parts of China. One wishes that they could awake amongst the grand and looming mountains amidst a field of lush grass next to a river. Let’s go to the beautiful western China!

Previously the western plain was one of China’s poorest regions. However, after years of development and reform, this area has flourished and has given birth to the now thriving industry of eco-tourism.

At present, western China boasts wild and boundless vistas and panoramas of unparalleled natural beauty as well as a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and unique culture, making it an attractive destination for tourists who want to venture off the beaten-track. Travel to western China is also currently extremely affordable; but a word of warning: the increased exposure of western China to foreign tourists is not only pushing up the cost of travel but also altering the natural experience. This article will introduce some of the must-see locations around the vast land which is west China in the hope that you can travel there in the future.

Yunnan – The land above the clouds

1. Classic travel routes

Since ancient times Yunnan (clouds in the south) has been called the land above the clouds to describe the mystical Yunling Plateaus. Firstly, scenery aside, Yu Nan is home to 26 different ethnic minorities each with their own different language, culture, education, festivals, religion, dress and marriage customs. Among the most renown of these minorities include the Naxi people, Dali’s Bai people, and the Yi people in Beima. Yu Nan also has annually celebrates the unique Water-Sprinkling Festival, the flare festival and the cutter bar festival.

The classic travel route typically take by tourists includes Li Jiang, Da Li, Lugu Lake, Shangri-La and Xishuangbanna. Many tourists take this tour more than once, there’s simply too much to see. Spring is the best time to travel in Dali, Lijiang and Xishuangbanna are suitable all year round and Shangri-La and Lugu Lake are best to visit during late spring or early summer.

2. Exploration Tours

1) Nu River

People say that Lijiang invokes the romantic and consumerist side of people, the Nu River does neither, it is a perfectly unspoiled haven of serenity. Located in the Northwestern Corner of Nujiang, Lisu Ethnic Minority Prefecture represents an amazing cross-road both geographically and culturally, Yun Nan to the North and Tibet to the West and the main channel to and from Burma. With the world heritage listed “three parallel rivers”, this is really one of China’s premier eco-tourist scenic spots and a key stop on the Shangri-La ecological tour route.

The Nu River originates the Tanggula Mountain range flowing right through Yunnan including the Mt. Fu Gong and Mt. Lu Shui and the finally meeting the Indian Ocean, one of the more amazing features of this river is a 300km canyon that runs through parts of Yunnan. This fertile yet rugged river valley has created a unique cultural melting-pot of different ethnic minorities, including the Bai people and Tibetan people, the rich mix of cultures and minorities seems as varied and colorful and the landscape that surrounds them.

Hot locations: Bing Zhong Luo Basin

While the Nujiang River gushes from the peaks of the Tibetan plateau to the Indian Ocean the Bingzhongluo River meanders and winds its way like a length of Chinese silk.

In the Bingzhongluo area, there live several ethnic minorities, including that of the Nu people, the DuLong people, the Lisu people and the Tibetan People. The river links these regions and seems to bring together a mix of different religions as well as a plethora of different unique animals and plants. The traditional architecture of these minorities is also something to be appreciated. This is really a region of amazing diversity which seemingly plays host to both man and spirit, who coexist together.

Horse caravan is a unique form of transportation in Yunnan; the Bingzhongluo River has traditionally been a pathway that leads these horse caravans from deep inside Yunnan to the lofty windswept plateaus of Tibet.

Hot locations: Nu River Canyon

Between the Nu River, the Lan Cang River and the Du Long River, the Nu River Canyon is the most breathtaking scenic location. Nu River Canyon is the longest, most mystical and most magnificent canyon in the world. The Nu River Canyon in ancient times was channel used by the emperor to travel through Yunnan to the Bingzhongluo River, with a length of 600 kilometers and 3,000meters at its deepest point this canyon is truly spectacular. Trips along the Nu River are so visceral because of the clean, glassy water, the sweet smell of flowers and the thick virgin forests which cover both banks, in the winter the forests are dusted in pure white snow. As a poet once quoted: “ten miles of every changing climate, a mountain of ten thousand different things”.

The backpackers can get to the Gong Mountain by bus first and then hike to the Bingzhongluo district along the Nujiang River.

Unknown plateau with rivers and lakes-Eryuan West Lake

2) Eryuan West Lake

On the journey from Dali to Lijiang, you will pass through the Eryuan reservoir, 60 kilometers from Dali. The Eryuan West Lake boasts a magical pond and a vast plateau of rivers and lakes, a truly remarkable panorama of breathtaking views, its views are unparalleled but this area remains hidden for most tourists.

Sisters of Bai Ethnic Group on Eryuan West Lake As a fresh lake on plateau, the Eryuan West Lake is comprised of West Lake, Jiangwei, Luoping Mountain and Snail River. In these parts the water is always inky blue with Chinese water reeds gently being tugged at by lapping waves on the lakeside. Most amazing there are minority communities who live on islands in the middle of these lakes, it’s as you’ve wandered into a painting. There is not only the unique architecture of the Bai people to marvel at but also their unique and rich culture heritage to enjoy.

The Eryuan Wetland also in Yunnan represents the second biggest wetland in China and has a diversity of fish and birdlife, the temperate climate helps these species survive there all year round.

3. Current Season Information

Shangri-La Indian azalea

June is the season when the Shangri-La Indian azalea comes into bloom; there are over one-hundred varieties of this flow across the rugged terrain of Yunnan. These fragrant and colorful flowers bloom in such numbers that they block of the sky with an explosion of vibrant color. Purace Park is a great destination for tourists in Shangri-la because it has a myriad of different bird and animal species (i.e. squirrel); it truly is a haven of natural beauty!

Amazing Tibet 1. Classic Travel Route

Traveling to Tibet always takes courage and the loss of inhibition. Sitting on the South-West border of China Tibet is a mix of natural beauty and mystical cultural uniqueness. It doesn’t matter which one of Tibet’s world famous landmarks you visit, whether it be Mount. Everest, Yaluzangbu Canyon, some sacred lake, the Potala Palace or the Virgin Forest all are unique to Tibet. As Tibet has been isolated from China for such a long time it still possesses highly unique culture and heritage.

Tibetan man dancing happily on the Tibetan Kangba Art Festival

2. Exploration Tours

1) Northern Tibet Plateau

The best time to visit the Northern Tibet Plateau is in summer.

The Northern Tibet Plateau is often referred to within China as the QiangTang Prairie. Here weathered herdsmen making living by herding yaks and sheep. The wool from these animals spun to a high quality and then sold. Nylon tents with five colors are available here: red, blue, yellow, green and white. Ancient rock carvings and the skeleton of a wooly mammoth all exist in this amazing landscape.

Tibet festival clothing is noticeably unique especially amongst young to middle aged girls; these expensive garments include a full gown and several bronze and brass ornaments hanging from it. The unique sound of a ringing bell can be heard across Tibetan plateaus during festive holidays.

2) Grand Nianqing Tangla Snow Mountain

In the place 100 kilometers from Tibet, there lies the world-famous Nianqing Tangla Snow Mountain, bordering Namucuo Lake to the north. The 7117-meter high mountain is covered with snow all year around, [...]

A travel checklist is one of the handiest tools you will ever have when it comes to preparing for your first holiday camping trip. Regardless of what you might expect to take on a camping trip, what you really need will only become evident when you are miles from nowhere with no newspaper to help you light your campfire – because you never thought to pack any. By creating a travel checklist, breaking it down into categories and covering everything you might need for such a holiday, you can ensure that you will have all you need for your family to enjoy its time away from it all.

Your camping trip’s travel checklist should be broken down into several very important categories including: shelter, food, clothing, emergencies, sporting equipment, miscellaneous. The reason for this breakdown is simple – you must essentially pack for everything imaginable. Let us take a look at these travel checklist categories further.

Shelter
If you are going on a camping trip, then you will need to secure a form of temporary shelter for the duration of your holiday. You will need a tent, a pop-up trailer, a hard-top trailer, a yurt – anything really, unless you plan on renting a cottage or cabin in the woods. If you do not have a tent or some other shelter then you will need to buy or rent one. Also included in this category is everything that you would normally find inside a shelter such as a cooking apparatus, pots and pans, plates, glasses, utensils, a lighting source, bedding, pillows, a barbeque lighter, matches, newspapers, etc… all of these items can be purchased at camping stores or you can also buy disposable varieties of all these necessities. Making a list of everything you might need in order to cook, live and feel comfortable should be on your list.

Food
Think of all the meals you will need to prepare during your camping trip and plan ahead. If you have to feed only two people, then you will not need as much food as if you have a family of five on your hands. [...]

Gold panning. Our new hobby. I don’t see any articles on this subject. You can find oodles of websites about gold prospecting. You’d be surprised at all the places you can find gold.

Back at the beginning of summer, my husband and I were spending our weekend at home as usual. We’re usually complaining how there’s not a lot to do for people our ages. While watching tv, flipping through the stations, trying to find something to watch, (you all know what I’m talking about), we came across the ‘cash and treasures’ show. My husband and I were rock collectors as children, so this greatly interested us. I looked at my husband and said, ‘hey, we should do that’! So we did something we never do, something spontaneous; that night after my husband got off work, we headed down to Dahlonega, Georgia.

After arriving at our destination, we watched a video on how to gold pan, then we purchased a bucket of sand and gave it a try. You can choose different amounts of sand to pan. Buy it by the pan, or bag, or bucket. There’s something that happens when you look down in the pan, and you see the little flakes and tiny nuggets. It’s a feeling that, that. Well, I can’t explain it! I can only say, we both got ‘the fever’!

There are also, as we found in our short lived travels, (due to the drought), that there are places where you can not only pan for gold, but also look for gemstones. For a fee of around $5.00, you can buy a bucket of [...]