eBook - All Around the World in 5 Countries

Adil Mohammed Hanief

Aura Camila Rodriguez Ardila Bijalben Abhishek Jain Cajaana Kanagaratnam Eny’Ojo Joe-Atodo

Brunilda Xhaferllari

All Around the World in 5 Countries Click to add text

Canada

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ia b m o l Co

Alban ia

Nigeria 1

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Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Albania ………………….....................................………………….................... 7 About Albania ………………….....................................………………….............9 Top 10 Beaches in Albania ………………….....................................…….........11 Top 10 Castles in Albania ………………….....................................……...........22 Top 10 National Parks in Albania …………………............................................36 Top 5 Mountains in Albania ………………….....................................…….........47 Top 5 Traditional Albanian Dishes …………………...........................................53 Chapter 2: Canada ………………….....................................………………….................. .59 About Canada ………………….....................................…………………............60 Top 10 Cities ………………….....................................……................................62 Top 10 National Parks …………………..............................................................73 Top 10 Food and Restaurants ………………….................................................91 Top 5 Beaches and Lakes……………...............................................................102 Top 5 Museums & Libraries...............................................................................108 Fun Activities for Individuals, Families & Couples.............................................115 Resorts, Hotels & Clubs....................................................................................126 Chapter 3: Colombia ………………….....................................………………….................132 About Columbia ………………….....................................…………………..... ...134 Top 12 Beaches ………………….....................................…….........................135 Top 15 Waterfalls/Bodies of Water.............................…………………………....148 Top 15 Fruits………………….....................................…….................................169

Top 15 Colonial Towns……................................................................................185 Typical Foods from the 6 Regions.....................……..........................................210 Colombian Jungle……….................................................... ..................... .........221 Chapter 4:India ………………….....................................………………….................. ……228 About India ………………….....................................………………….................230 Top 10 Cities ………………….....................................……..............................231 Top 10 Historical places ....................................................................................245 Top 5 Landscapes ……….....................................……......................................266 Top 5 Street Food …………..............................................................................277 Top 5 Beaches …………...................................................................................283 Top 5 Festivals …………....................................................................................292 Chapter 5: Nigeria …………………..................................... ………………….....................301 About Nigeria …………………..................................... …………………..............303 Top 10 Tourist Destinations …..................................... ……...............................304 Top 10 Historical Monuments …….....................................................................319 Top 5 Nigerian Festivals….................................... …….......................................338 Top 10 Nigerian Delicacies…..............................................................................348 Top 10 Nigerian Fruits.........................................................................................361

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ALBANIA 7

About Albania

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On Southern Europe’s Balkan Peninsula, Albania is situated on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, with Greece to the south, Kosovo to the northeast, Montenegro to the northwest, and North Macedonia to the east.

The landscape is diverse, ranging from mountains and hills in the North Albanian Alps to dense forests in the central region, fertile plains to the west, to several inland lakes and rivers and lovely beaches lining up its coastline. The climate consists generally of warm, dry summers and mild wet winters but is also subject to change depending on the region; the eastern part of the country experiences milder summers and colder winters compared to the western part with its warmer, more moderate temperatures.

Out of its population of 2,822,000, the highest number live in Tirana, the capital city is a melting pot of cultures from the ancient Illyrian civilization to Greek, German and Italian influence. The country is named “ Shqipëri ” (Land of Eagles) by Albanians in their native language shqip, which is considered one of the most fascinating languages by linguists as it is the only surviving part of the original Indo-European group of languages. Shqip has two distinct dialects: Geg is spoken mostly in the north and Tosk in the south. The national currency is the lek, officially dispensed by the Bank of Albania since 1926.

Albanian culture consists of rich traditional arts like embroidery, lace making woodwork, furniture making, folk music, and storytelling.

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A view of some colorful apartment buildings in Tirana, Albania

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The Enver Hoxha pyramid: a national symbol erected in 1985 in Tirana.

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Top 10 Beaches 11

Mirror Beach — Saranda

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Saranda is a city in southern Albania. It's a little town with a population of over 30,000 people that is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.

It's a great place to start exploring the area's beaches and other tourist attractions, such as Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mirror Beach is a local favorite with a variety of inexpensive eateries and a wonderful Mediterranean vibe. One of Albania's most beautiful beaches is Mirror Beach (Plazhi I Pasqyrave). The sun reflects like a mirror into the crystal-clear water, creating a wonderful effect, according to legend. The beach of mirrors, or mirror beach, gets its name from this. Some concrete bunkers were erected in front of the beach during the communist era. During the Cold War, the bunkers, like many others in Albania, were used to safeguard the shoreline.

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Dhërmi Beach — Himarë

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Dhermi Beach lies midway between Vlora and Saranda on the Albanian Riviera. It is a sandy, gently sloping beach that has been well-developed. Here is where you can go snorkeling.

Dhermi is known for its clear blue sea and immaculate cleanliness. The beach is encircled by a low, rocky coastline that is densely forested. The beach is rather large.

Here you may hire a deckchair and an umbrella. In the vicinity, there are bars and restaurants.

Dhermi Beach is a must-visit if you're seeking a good beach in Albania. Because the sea is pure, this beautiful coastline is ideal for swimming, and there are beach loungers available for hire if you wish to relax while sunbathing.

During peak seasons, especially in the summer, Dhermi Beach may get quite busy.

Visit during off-seasons or weekdays if you want to enjoy the beach with less people.

The ideal times to visit Dhermi Beach are between June and September.

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Borsh Beach

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On the Albanian Riviera, Borsh Beach is located. On Albania's Ionian coast, it is the longest beach. It's a 7-kilometer-long stretch of land. It is surrounded on the land side by olive orchards and is covered on fine, pale sand. Borsh has not yet succumbed to mass tourism, despite its beautiful beach. The creation of superior oil is necessary for survival.

The beach is surrounded by olive orchards. It's still quiet for the time being, and there aren't many lively hotels around. However, there are plans to build a huge resort on the site.

Borsh Beach is ranked 9th out of 87 beaches in Vlore County. The beach is in a city with mountains in the background. Because of the crystal blue water and light pebble, appropriate shoes are needed. The water's entry is a bit of a snag. This beach is appropriate for a variety of people, including single travelers, relaxation vacationers, and so on. During the peak season, it is moderately packed. In the area, there is a campground.

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Gjipe Beach — Himarë

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On the Albanian Riviera, Gjipe Beach is found. At the mouth of a beautiful canyon, there is a little beach with silvery sand. She is encircled by tall cliffs. It's reachable via boat or a lengthy, steep rock route.

Gjipe Beach is situated between Dhermi and Himara on the Albanian Riviera. It's roughly 2 hours south of Vlora and 4 hours south of Tirana, Albania's capital. The beach is close enough for a day excursion from Dhermi, Himara, or perhaps Saranda.

The beach is ideal for relaxing and taking a dip in the water. The pale, fine sand complements the clear blue ocean well. White cliffs add to the allure. Renting a boat from the nearby Jala beach is the simplest method to get to the beach. Beautiful views of the coast, including little bays and coastal grottos, may be enjoyed along the journey.

Alternatively, you may walk from the parking lot. It's about a half-hour long and takes you across cliffs. The path, however, is difficult.

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Golem Beach

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The second-largest beach in the area, with beautiful white sand. It starts at the base of the Kavaje Rock and runs for about 5 kilometers. Dunes and a pine forest surround it.

Wild rabbits, turtles, and woodpeckers may all be found on the property.

In Albania's Tirana County, Golem is a seaside settlement and administrative unit.

Formerly a rural municipality, it was included in the municipality of Kavaje after the 2015 local government reform. The 2011 census revealed a population of 6,994 people. Many resorts, hotels, and holiday houses are located along the shore, which is one of Albania's most popular beach destinations. Visit Golem Beach for a wonderful day in the sun and in the water, which is one of the top things to do in Albania. If you're searching for a coastline that's easy to get to and close to a lot of hotels, this is the place to go.

The beach at Golem is well-kept and the safest for children. Golem Beach features a sandy beachfront with a modest slope compared to other Albanian beaches. Because there are no dramatic drops and the water is shallow and tranquil, it is great for smaller children.

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Palasa Beach — Himarë

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Palasa, also known as Paljasa, is a settlement in Himare municipality, Vlore County, Albania, located 13 kilometers from the town. On the Albanian Riviera, it's close to the Llogara National Park and the Ionian shore.

Palasa Beach is ranked 39th out of 87 beaches in the county of Vlore. The beach is in a city with beautiful mountain views. Because it is a wide stretch of shoreline with crystal blue ocean and light pebble, suitable footwear is advised. The sting of getting into the water is to be expected. Everyone is welcome in the Palasa beach area. Loungers and umbrellas, as well as bathrooms, are available on this beach. You may participate in a variety of activities in addition to swimming and sunbathing According to folklore, the village was originally located on the shore at a spot historically known as Meghalihora, but it was significantly shifted inland owing to pirate assaults in the 12th-13th centuries. The change is a common phonetic norm in Himara's native Greek dialect. If Palaeste is linguistically related to contemporary Greek Pal(i)asa, the transition must have occurred prior to 1582.

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Lukova Beach — Lukove

Image Credit: https ://dynamic-media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-o/18/9d/98/8e/photo1jpg.jpg?w=120 0&h=-1&s=1 Lukova is another peaceful beach, but the town is a nice size and has a lot of amenities, so there's shopping and nightlife to keep things interesting. There are tiny, virgin beaches that are more intimate, as well as larger, more popular beaches that are crowded with delighted vacationers. The mix of the crystal blue Ionian Sea and the lush greenery makes you feel as if you've discovered a small slice of heaven.

Lukova Beach is hard to top for an unrivaled vista of the beautiful blue Ionian Sea and shimmering sandy shoreline. It is one of the most popular beaches on the Albanian Riviera, with spectacular views of the Mediterranean and one of the country's friendliest beach attractions.

A succession of small beach areas, as well as one large one, Shpella, border the shoreline near Lukova. This beach archipelago has it all, from amazing shopping and nightlife to tranquil views of the gentle surf and some of the area’s best seafood restaurants. Whatever your tastes, you'll be able to find something to fulfill them.

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Livadhi Beach — Himarë

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Livadhi Beach is a major beach in Himara's municipality. The beach is located away from the new town but only down the hill from Himara Fshat's historic town. The beach is well-liked by both residents and visitors due to its natural sand and picturesque surroundings. The beach is nestled in a bay and has a beautiful view of the surrounding green hills. Himara Castle may be seen from the top of one of the hills.

For the most part, the beach is rather long and broad, so there's plenty of room to spread out your blanket and go for a stroll. Hikes may be taken from the beach, such as to the city beaches in Himara in the south or to Jala Beach in the north, passing past the lovely desolate Aquarium Beach.

Because Livadhi Beach is open to the public, you are free to claim a place and lay your towel down. Other areas are privately owned and maintained, with beach chairs and umbrellas available for hire. There are several pubs and restaurants located both on and off the beach. There are motels, guest houses, and campsites available if you wish to stay the night.

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Narta Beach — Vlore

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In the Vlore County region, Narta beach II is ranked 82nd out of 87 beaches. The beach is in a city setting. You don't need special shoes because it's a short, straight stretch of shoreline with clear blue ocean and brown fine sand. The sting of getting into the water is to be expected. This beach is appropriate for a variety of people, including single Travellers, relaxation vacationers, and so on. During the season, it is not too crowded. Everyone is welcome to visit Narta Beach II. Loungers and umbrellas, a beach restaurant, changing rooms, and restrooms are among the amenities available at this beach. This beach line is patrolled by a lifeguard during the season. You may participate in a variety of activities in addition to swimming and sunbathing.

From a coniferous forest that provides delightful shade, a huge, gorgeous, and popular sand and pebble beach emerges. On-site, you'll find everything you need to unwind and bathe on the beach. A huge restaurant with a varied menu of fish and seafood dishes may be found in the surrounding neighborhood.

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Llamani Beach — Himarë

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Potami Beach is one of Himar's largest beaches, with a unique combination of Greek and Albanian culture set against a backdrop of sun-kissed sand and bright blue skies.

Potami means "river" in Greek, and the water that flows through it is crisp, cool, and invigorating, flowing from year-round underground springs.

For those who can't get enough of the pure blue sea, Potami Beach is also strategically placed near Llamani Beach and its spectacular cliffside, which can be reached by land, kayaking, or yacht for those who can't get enough of the brilliant blue sea. While the beaches themselves are bustling with activity, the cliffs and neighboring coast are quiet, providing tourists with a calm haven in which to rest and take in the area's vast natural beauty. The foliage that surrounds Potami adds to the natural feel that this stretch of the Albanian Riviera radiates.

A variety of restaurants and nightclubs can be found in the vicinity. Potami Beach's eclectic heritage is on display here, with a variety of Greek and Albanian options, as well as a friendly ambiance. Potami Beach combines natural beauty with cultural diversity to create an environment as cool and refreshing as the river that passes through it.

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Top 10 Castles 22

Krujë Castle — City of Krujë

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Krujë Castle is located in the north-central city of Krujë. about 12 miles north of the Albanian capital of Tirana. The city is small and can be walked. Buses and taxis can be caught from Tirana to Krujë. The bus to Krujë departs from the bus station serving the northern religion on Dritan Hoxha Street. The castle is considered to be among the most epic medieval castles in Europe.

The first construction on the site of Krujë Castle likely dates to the early Middle Ages.

By the Albanian Revolt of 1432-1436, it was in control of the Ottoman Empire. Within the decade, Krujë Castle became the centre of Skanderbeg’s rebellion against the Ottomans. Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbej, known as Skanderbeg ‘the dragon of Albania’, was educated as a hostage in the Ottoman court.

Krujë Castle is one of the most visited historical sites in Albania.

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Lëkurësi Castle— Town of Saranda

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The Lëkurësi Castle in Albania is also known as Kalaja e Lëkurësit in Albanian, this historical castle has an interesting history. Located on a steep hill that strategically overlooks the town of Saranda, the castle was built in 1537 by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, the longest-reigning Sultan of the Ottoman Empire.

Its strategic position on a hill of about 300 meters in height as well as its panoramic views of Saranda, the Butrint Lagoon, and even the island of Corfu, make this destination a tourist favorite. Not to mention that, inside the fortress, you will find one of the best-known bars and restaurants in Saranda which also offers the most beautiful view of the sunset.

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Berat Castle – Town of Berat

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The origins of Berat Castle go back more than 2,000 years. The earliest records mentioning it date from 200 B.C. and talk about its destruction by the Romans. Several centuries later, the walls were reinforced to protect them against barbarian attacks. The Castle of Berat underwent several more renovations over the following centuries, and the current structure dates mainly from the 1200s.

This magnificent stronghold is one of the most striking castles in Albania, boasting more than 20 watchtowers and massive stone walls. It’s the star attraction in the town of Berat, offering great views of the surrounding landscape and an insight into the history of Albania. However, one of the most remarkable things about this Albania castle is that people still live inside its walls. Inside the Berat Castle, you’ll find many shops and restaurants, houses and churches, bars and bazaars.

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Gjirokaster Castle — Town of Gjirokaster

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Gjirokaster Castle is one of the most significant in the Balkans. It is located on the hilltop overlooking the town, witnessing the history of the whole region beyond the centuries. The date for building the castle is still unclear. According to archaeologists, the place had been inhabited since the IV-V century.

The Castle of Gjirokaster dominates the city and surveys the strategically important path along the river valley. It is open to visitants and includes a military gallery highlighting captured artillery and memorabilia of the Communist revolution against German invasion, as well as a defeated United States Air Force plane to memorialize the Communist regime’s conflict against the “imperialist” Western pressures. The Castle of Gjirokaster is the most famous tourist attraction in Gjirokaster dominated the downtown from up the hill.

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Durrës Castle - City of Durrës

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Castle Durrës is an ancient fortress town in Durrës, Albania. The castle dates back to the 400s, during the rule of Anastasius I, the Byzantine Emperor who was raised in this region. he made Durrës one of the most fortified cities in the Adriatic.

In a 1273 earthquake damaged the ancient walls and they had to be extensively repaired. At this time the Venetian Tower was built, standing on top of the previous Byzantine Tower, at a height of 9 meters. The tower was named as such because Durrës was part of the Venetian Republic when it was built.

The Venetians also added other guard towers and the wall was also improved by the Ottoman Empire during their time ruling Albania. In 1939 the castle was the base for a collection of Albanian patriots attempting to delay the Italian army’s advance.

Approximately 360 locals effectively held their ground before reinforced Italian forces arrived at the port and took the city.

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Porto Palermo Castle — Bay of Palermo

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Porto Palermo Castle was built in the 19th century by Ali Pasha of Tepelena. Inscribed on a plague which went missing, it said “Ali Pasha of Tepelena built the castle in 1804 with the help of French military engineers”, Historians argue whether the castle was actually built by Ali Pasha.

In the ancient world, the bay of Porto Palermo has always been an important harbor which had to protect Himara. The entire castle with its many rooms with a triangular shape with three pentagonal towers at the corners, which were built out of limestone.

The walls themselves are made of regularly set stone blocks. Inside the walls of the castle, several paintings are displayed, among which is one of Ali Pasha himself. On the ground floor is the prison, which was centrally located and oriented towards the sea. A stone stairway will bring you to the terrace on top of the castle. There are five survey towers that have gun loopholes covered with domes. From the castle terrace, you have amazing views over the Ionian Sea, the rocky coastline, and the mountains.

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Rozafa Castle— City of Shkodra

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Built during Antiquity, enduring the Roman and Ottoman empires, and remaining intact up to the present day, Rozafa Castle has witnessed the dramatic changes of tide over the course of Albania’s fascinating history. The castle comprises of three main courtyards, making it easily navigable. Once you enter the fortified 15th-century main entrance, you come to a first courtyard, where the 4th-century tract of the Illyrian wall, the oldest structure in the castle grounds, is found. Along the first courtyard, you’ll also find medieval ruins of cisterns, the towers of the Balshaj, and the former Venetian residences.

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In the second courtyard are the ruins of the Church of St. Stephen, which is now a mosque, and is certainly deserving some special attention. Originally the church was built in the romantic style commonly found between the 13th and 15th centuries and was later transformed into the Sultan Mehmet Fatih Mosque during the reign of the Ottoman Empire, between the 16th and 19th centuries. During this time, the Catholic population abandoned the castle, as the space came to be used as a military base.

Today, the ruins of this church-mosque, which was ultimately abandoned in 1865, symbolize the passage of history that ran through Albania. The third and final courtyard of the castle holds a three-story Venetian building, known as the “Capitol”, which served as the residence of the Venetian ruler. The views from high up at the castle offer a beautiful view of the Lake of Shkodra, as well as the city’s rivers and expansive mountain ranges.

https://theculturetrip.com/europe/albania/articles/the-legend-of-rozafa-castle-in-albania/

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Bashtovë Castle — Near village of Vilë-Bashtovë

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The Fortress of Bashtovë is a medieval quadrangular fortress located on a fertile flat ground east of the mouth of the Shkumbin River. Bashtova Castle is located near the village of Vilë-Bashtovë, north of the Shkumbin River. It is thought to have been built towards the end of the 15th century, with its western wing reconstructed in the 18th century.

As a result of its proximity to the Adriatic Coast, a spectacularly green

landscape surrounds this majestic castle. Venetians used this singular structure as a popular trading center. Subsequently, the Ottoman powers turned into a functional port.

Due to this, the castle displays a gorgeous interweaving of both Venetian and Ottoman architectural styles.

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Build on a vast field near the Shkumbin River valley, the castle has a rectangular shape. Its walls reach approximately 9 meters in height! Originally, it was most probably a two-story structure with an underground first floor and had a total of seven towers.

However, only three of these towers remain, two circular and one rectangular one, as well as the original entrance of the castle. The objects found inside the castle are preserved at the National Museum of History, located in Tirana.

A spectacular national park surrounds Bashtova Castle, making it an ideal destination for the lovers of the outdoors! The sheer variety of natural sites here is another element that adds to the unquestionable charm of this place. Both the popular Spille and Grethi beaches are located within a kilometer of the castle. Shkumbin River is also less than 500 meters away. As such, the hiking, swimming, or fishing opportunities here are limitless!

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Rodoni Castle — Cape of Rodon

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Rodoni Castle stands on the Cape of Rodon. After their victory against the Ottoman Empire at Krujë the Lezhë League decided to add additional fortifications to the country.

Skanderbeg selected Rodon’s cape as the site for the castle and work started in 1450.

The walls of the fortress, which were built around 1452, are 400 meters long.

When the Siege of Krujë ended in 1466, Skanderbeg fled to Rodoni Castle. It was from here that he fled by ship to Brindisi. The castle was thought to be destroyed in 1467 by Ottoman forces. The castle was restored by the Republic of Venice in 1500.

Some of the foundations are now under the Adriatic seas, as a consequence of the corrosive motion of the sea waves.

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Elbasan Castle — City of Elbasan

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Foreign travelers in the ‘800s noted that cities like Elbasan no longer existed in Europe. Indeed, this is a rare town! Skampis, as this fortress-town was once called, was founded in 1466 by two strikingly different leaders: the Roman emperor Justinian and Sultan Mehmet the Second. The two-thousand-year-old Castle of Elbasan, a Roman construction built as early as the 3rd century B.C., once surrounded the entire city, which stretched over an area of approximately 10 hectares.

After it was nearly entirely destroyed during the wars of the 4th and 5th centuries, the castle walls were erected once more by Justinian in order to be used as a military shelter as well as to oversee the famous Via Egnatia, the main road which stretched across major cities of the Roman Empire. Later, during the Ottoman Empire, Mehmet the Second intended to use this castle as the base of his military operations against Skanderbeg, the national Albanian hero who fought to gain Albania’s independence from the Ottoman Empire. Instead, the castle swiftly became the center of Albanian nationalism.

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The Castle of Elbasan also honors the prominent figures in the progress of Albanian language and culture such as Kostantin Kristoforidhi, who gave Albanians their first elementary school textbook in Albanian and the first Albanian translation of the Old Testament, as well as the founders of the Albanian Academy of Sciences. A walk through the rest of the castle reveals an astounding variation of beautiful architecture: Ottomanstyle houses, typical of central Albania, Italian-style flats of the 19th and 20th centuries, and communist as well as post-communist era buildings. Through destructions and reconstructions throughout centuries, this castle has somehow retained all the epochs, emperors, stories, cultures, and religions that have dwelled inside its walls!

https://www.albania-discover.com/events/kalaja-e-elbasanit/

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Top 10 National Parks 36

Butrint National Park

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Burtrint National Park is a UNESCO site of heritage that is based around the antique town Butrint in the South of Albania. The national park boasts high diversity of habitats including natural, semi-natural, and artificial habitats. Examples include freshwater marshes, reed beds, Mediterranean forests, and Maquis and fruit tree terraces.

The park is internationally regarded as a must-see site in Albania. Yet somehow, it’s not crowded and tourists can visit and take walks freely and peacefully across the national park. Historically, what’s special about Butrint is that its many gorgeous, wellpreserved monuments reflect each distinct stage of its rich history, starting from the Hellenistic period and continuing on to the Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian periods.

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Dajti National Park

Image Credit: Bridget Nurre Jennions

Easily the most accessible national park on this list, Dajti national park, located 26km east of the capital, is a popular destination for many locals hoping to take a break from the stress of city life. The journey to the top of the mountain is a sky-high, Austrian-made cable car, Dajti Express, that takes 15 minutes to make the scenic trip to the top (1611m).

There are some 'family-friendly' activities such as shooting things with toy machine guns and hitting things with swords, or you can ride about a patch of rubbish-strewn wasteland on a pony. The mountainside is covered in lovely, shady beech and pine forests and a number of walking trails wend up and down the mountain. There are some very hit-and-miss trail markings, so it's wise to try and find a guide. Many of the hostels in town can arrange a day's hiking or mountain biking up here.

Dajti Mountain together with Priska Mountain (1353m) to the south and Brari Mountain to the North consists of the national park which has an exact coverage area of 29,216 hectares.

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Divjaka Pine National Park

Image Credit: Visit South Albania (Pictame.com)

Divjaka national park offers a variety of experiences to its visitors but especially a memorable experience for the birdwatchers. The Park gathers some fifty thousand birds, belonging to 250 different species, among the wonderful natural monuments it houses inside.

Approximately 230 different species of birds populate the area spanning the four lagoons of Karavasta, Godulla, Godulla e Pishës, and Spiaxho. Among them, the most popular is the Dalmatian Pelican, a very rare and beautiful bird. The population residing in the Karavasta Lagoon represents about 5% of the entire global population of this particular species. As such, if you are in the vicinity of the lagoon, be on the lookout for these majestic creatures. The famous curly pelican, as well, is responsible for one of the most beautiful spectacles in the lagoon! Often, a massive flock of white and grey birds overtakes the lagoon. Their reflection is beautifully mirrored in the water as they fly over its surface.

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Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park

Image Credit: https://www.nature-experience-albania.com/national-parks/shebenik-jabllanice-national-park/

Among Albania’s many natural parks, the Shebenik-Jablanica National Park, located near the city of Librazhd, remains relatively unknown. The main reason behind this obscurity is that entrance to the park was strictly forbidden during Communism. Yet, this has served the park well! Its 34,000 hectares are all covered by untouched and absolutely gorgeous forests, meadows, and blooming flowers.

The sheer variety of mountain ranges and bodies of water is simply astounding! The many mountain ranges within the park include Shebenik Mountain (2,253 m), the park’s namesake, Kallkan Mountain (2,189 m), and Katrafil Peak (1,760 m) among others.

Depending on their preference, visitors can partake in various organized hiking and climbing expeditions. Water sources of all kinds as well as 14 glacial and 3 artificial lakes only heighten the spectacular beauty of the park. All these natural elements combine to create stunning reflections and light effects along your hike.

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Fir Of Hotovë - Dangelli National Park

Image Credit: https://www.westend61.de/en/imageView/SIEF07838/albania-gjirokaster-fir-of-hotove-dangellinational-park-lengarica-canyon-lengarica-river

Fir of Hotova National Park is a nationally protected stretch of natural land in the southern part of Albania. The park is a continuous stretch of forest land and grassy heaths. The park is named after the Hotova Fir which is a very important endemic Mediterranean plant species. The park has several scenic trails for hiking and is full of significant endemic species of flora and fauna. People often come here to camp out in the great outdoors.

Due to its favorable ecological conditions, it is characterized by exceptionally rich and varied fauna. The forests are the most important habitats for mammals like wild cats, roe deer, wild boar, and red squirrels. The old growing trees throughout the park preserve a wide variety of bird species. Most notable amongst them are the golden eagle, eagle owl, barn owl, sparrowhawk, Egyptian vulture, kestrel, lanner falcon, and so on. Popular activities for tourists include hiking and backpacking, and white water rafting in Langarica Canyon.

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Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park

Image Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karaburun-Sazan_Marine_Park#/media/File:Grama_Bay._Albania_201708_14.jpg

The only marine national park in Albania, Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park, protects an area of almost 2 kilometers into the sea. You’ll find this beautiful coastal park near Vlore in the southwest of the country. It encompasses both the Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island, which is Albania’s largest island.

This exceptional park’s main features are underwater ruins of a variety of ships, dating from Greek and Roman times and from World War II. There’s also abundant marine life here, including corrals, three sea turtle species, and dolphins. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular things to do here. On the peninsula, you may come across chamois, roe deer, otters, and wild boar.

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Llogara National Park

Image Credit: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g6475352-d12206611-ReviewsLlogara_National_Park-Llogara_National_Park_Vlore_County.html#/media-atf/12206611/387337500:p/? albumid=-160&type=0&category=-160

A park boasting an outstanding variety in scenery, from the sun-soaked Ionian Sea coast to the Ceraunian Mountains’ peaks, Llogara National Park is a superb destination for hiking in Albania. While exploring the park’s trails, you’ll see vertical cliffs, pristine forests, and gorgeous alpine meadows. It’s a truly sensational getaway from the busy Albanian Riviera below.

Named after the Llogara Pass, which splits the mountains into a western and eastern range, the park offers stunning coastal views. From the pass itself, you can look down onto the white beaches of the Ionian coast and the town of Dhermi. The pass has a parking lot and a few restaurants, Another interesting feature of Llogara National Park is Caesar’s Pass, a mountain pass used by Julius Caesar himself to pursue his enemy Pompeii.

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Lurë National Park

Image Credit: https://www.traditionandadventure.com/7-magnific-lakes-lura-albania/

Lurë National Park is densely populated in vegetation. Higher plant life consists mainly of both coniferous and deciduous trees, particularly around the shores of the lakes. The most common tree native to Lurë is the European beech along with silver fir, black pine, red pine, and Bosnian pine. Especially protected is the Balkan pine, which is threatened with extinction and only common in the west of the Balkan Peninsula. The southern section of the park has a meadow of multicolor flowers and several coniferous trees, which is called the Field of Mares, offering pristine views over the landscape.

The most important wildlife inhabiting the park includes the European brown bear, Eurasian lynx, Eurasian wolf, European pine marten, roe deer, and western capercailzie.

However, the twelve glacial lakes within the national park were formed during the ice age. They are located in the northeastern part of the nation in the Dibër County at an elevation between 1,200 and 1,500 m (3,937 and 4,921 ft.).

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Theth National Park

Image Credit: https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/albania-national-parks-in-albania-travel-blog/

Snow-covered, jagged mountains, so beautiful that it hurts, lush green forests, circling eagles, lonely mountain villages, and bumpy pistes that undoubtedly set your eyes ablaze with wonder.

The approach to the beautiful national park and its beautiful main town is very long and arduous – but incredibly beautiful! For the route Theth – Shkodra you need about 4 hours including photo stops. From Shkodra to the spectacular winding curves of the Thore Pass (1,786m), the road is well paved but narrow and often literally single lane.

From the top of the pass, the road descends into the Theth valley to a stony, narrow runway, which is at best only cruised by off-road vehicles.

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Valbonë Valley National Park

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The park, which is Albania’s largest protected area, encompasses the forested Valbona River and its surrounding mountains, with their alpine landscapes, glacial springs, various rock formations, and waterfalls. The valley of Valbona is fondly called the ‘Miracle of the Alps‘.

Inside the park, there are many caves and grottos, the most prominent being the cave of Dragobia, where the remains of Bajram Curri, a national hero lie.

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Top 5 Mountains 47

Mount Dajti

Image Credit: http://parksdinarides.org/en/park/national_park_dajti_mountain/

Mount Dajti is 1,613 m above sea level and is located on the edge of Tirana, Albania.

It is considered the 'Natural Balcony of Tirana'. Dajti Mountain can be reached through a narrow asphalt mountain road onto an area known as Fusha e Dajtit.

You can find animals like wild boar, Eurasian wolf, red fox, European hare, brown bears, and wildcats.

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Maja Jezercë

Image Credit: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/1b/Jezerca_Massive.jpg

Maja Jezerce is the highest peak of Bjeshkët e Nemuna (aka Accursed Mountains) and it is 2694m high. Maja Jezerce doesn’t have a lot of animals or plants but does have plenty of different floral species. It is also known to be an easy hike.

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Mount Çika​​

Image Credit: https://sondortravel.com/guides-and-tips/mount-cika-ionian-riviera/

Mount Çika is a mountain in the southwestern region of Albania bordering the Ionian Sea and the Shushica Valley. It stands at 2,044m above sea level and is the 85th most prominent mountain peak in Europe. It is also part of the Llogara National Park, which is noted for its rich biodiversity and vegetation. It has beautiful trees like the Bulgarian fir, Austrian pine, Bosnian pine , and Macedonian pine. There are also beaches located on the west side including the Himarë, Palasa, Dhermi, and Jala. This mountain was even included in Lord Byron’s epic poem “Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage.”​​

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Maja e Thatë

Image Credit: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/1d/Albanian_Alps._Maja_e_Thate_%2844 094807255%29.jpg

Maja e Thatë is 2,406-metre-high and is located within Valbonë Valley National Park. It is rich in beech and pine forests, while the higher slopes consist of very steep dolomite and limestone rock walls, suitable for mountaineering and rock climbing.

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Mount Tomorr

Image Credit: https://paganplaces.com/wp-content/uploads/jet-engine-forms/123/2020/12/tomorri.jpg

Tomorr is a mountain range in the region of Berat and Skrapar, in Albania standing at 2,417 m high. Tomorr is in the Tomorr National Park, where you can find a plethora of different trees, plants, and flora species. There are also plenty of animal species like bears, wolves, and birds. Tomorr is also known as the “holy mountain” for Albanians, and it is a site where annual pilgrimages take place in August.

It is also considered the home of the deities. One thing to consider is that the mountain cannot be accessed at all times of the year. It is closed anytime according to weather conditions and when the access is not cleared of snow. The area is characterized by an impressive landscape and beautiful nature. Expect a steep trail when you visit

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Image Credit: NRG. https://nrg.kiev.ua/en/albanian-gastronomy.html

Top 5 Traditional Albanian Food 53

Ferges- Summer Stew

image credit:https://nomadparadise.com/albanian-food/

Ferges is an Albanian dish that has been passed down through generations. The sauce, cottage cheese, green peppers, and garlic are the major ingredients in this recipe. The name "summer stew" comes from the fact that many Albanians like to eat it cold. Allowing this meal to cool for around 2-3 hours is the best way to enjoy it. This thickens the sauce and helps the ingredients pop more. Ferges is most served with bread. Although the meal is not a common menu item in Albanian restaurants, it may be found at rural restaurants that specialize in traditional cuisine.

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Byrek – Albanian Piebyr

image credit:https://www.myalbanianfood.com/recipe/albanian-spinach-cheese-byrek/

Pies are one of Albania's most popular traditional meals. People enjoy them since they can eat them as a quick lunch or snack on the run.

A byrek can be filled with a variety of fillings. Meat, spinach, feta cheese, onions, and tomatoes, or cottage cheese, are the most popular of all. This dish can include a variety of contents as well as varied forms. This is entirely dependent on the location in which you attempt it.

Traditionally, byrek is eaten with greek yoghurt or dhalle. After the main dish, the elder generation frequently eats byrek. Others use it as a fast snack or as a finishing dish. It is still normal for Albanians to speak in this manner.

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Tavë Kosi – Baked Lamb or Chicken in Yoghurt

image credit:https://tajfoods.com.au/tave-kosi-albanian-baked-lamb-and-rice-with-yogurt/

A popular lunchtime meal in Albania is chicken cooked in yoghurt. Elbasan Tava is a popular name for it throughout the Balkans. The dish was called for the Albanian city where it was born. The most common meat used in Tave Kosi is lamb, however, some Albanians also use chicken. The meat is roasted alongside the yoghurt, rice, and eggs.

The flavour of this meal is one of a kind. The baked yoghurt has a soft texture and a little sour flavour, but the meat helps to balance it out and gives the meal its luscious meaty flavour.

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Speca thë Mbushura me Oriz – Bell Peppers Stuffed with Rice

image credit:https://worldfood.guide/dish/speca_me_gjize/

The popular local delicacy is stuffed bell peppers. They're popular in all of Albania's regions and may be found in traditional food restaurants in the countryside. Green bell peppers are packed with rice and served as part of this meal. Depending on how it was passed down, the exact recipe varies. Instead of merely rice, some Albanians add minced lamb or tomatoes.

The peppers are then roasted and served immediately. With Greek yoghurt, feta cheese, or Dhalla, this meal is delicious. Albanians frequently season this meal with chilly peppers or black pepper since the fiery sensation balances out the dish's light flavors.

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Jani me Fasule – White Bean Soup

image credit: http://albaniavisits.com/bean-yahni-soup-jani-me-fasule/

In Albanian cuisine, white bean soup has remained a top-rated meal. This was one of the most popular recipes during the Albanian famine since it was both cheap to prepare and satisfying. Even when the hunger ended, white bean soup remained popular.

The soup is created with tomato sauce, onions, and white beans, and it's usually accompanied by pickled vegetables or Greek yogurt.

Most Albanians consume this soup with kulac or freshly baked bread.

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CANADA 59

About Canada

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Canada is in North America and has 10 provinces and three territories that stretch from the Atlantic to the Pacific, as well as northward into the Arctic Ocean. Totaling about 9.98 million square kilometers, it is the world's second-largest country in terms of total area.

The population of Canada is estimated to be 38 million people. Around 80% of the population live in cities and towns. Since the country is mainly land, Canada has one of the lowest population density ratios in the world. This equates to fewer than 4 people per square kilometer. Canada is a varied and cosmopolitan country. There are 250 ethnic origins or ancestries represented among Canadians. There are 20 million Europeans in Canada, 2 million Indigenous people, and a vast number of people who claim Chinese, East Indian, Southeast Asian, and other ancestries.

First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples make up Canada's Indigenous population.

Many different religions are practiced in Canada, while other people profess no religious allegiance. Catholics, Protestants, Christian Orthodox, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, and Hindus are a few examples of religions practiced. You can find many different buildings of worship for each.

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English and French are the official languages of Canada. Bilingual services are provided by all federal government organizations and numerous companies. Punjabi, Spanish, Arabic, and Tagalog are the other top five native languages in Canada. Cree, Inuktitut, and Innu are the most widely spoken Indigenous languages.

Although

snow

and

cold

are

often

associated

with

Canada's

weather,

summer temperatures may be pleasant. The climate of southern Canada is remarkably like that of Northern America. Summer temperatures in Iqaluit, the capital of Canada's far north territory of Nunavut, have risen to as high as 75°F (24°C) in recent years because of global warming. The warmest summer temperatures in Canada are found in the Okanagan Valley in southern British Columbia and southern Ontario.

The three inland Prairie Provinces of Canada have weather comparable to that of the American Midwest, with chilly winters and hot summers. Southwest British Columbia, like the Pacific Northwest in the United States, has the mildest average winter temperatures in Canada.

https://www.commonwealthfund.org/international-health-policy-center/countries/canada

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Top 10 Cities to Visit 62

Calgary, Alberta

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The largest town in Alberta is found between the Canadian Prairies and the foothills of the Canadian Rockies. After oil had been found close-by in the mid-1900s, Calgary became what is nowadays one of Canada's largest metropolitan areas, pulling in thousands consistently to its world-renowned rodeo moment, the Calgary Stampede. It is Old West Festival held more than 10 days in July with rodeos, competitions, throw wagon races, parades, crafts, and sustenance.

Interesting Facts: Calgary is the sunniest city in Canada with average of 333 sunshine days a year and it is also considered as the cleanest city in the world by Clearwater.

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Ottawa, Ontario

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Ottawa is a capital of Canada and holds so much history. As the country's capital, it is a home to numerous financial, business and elected foundations including Parliament Hill, the administration situates where the formal Changing of the Guard happens day by day amid the summer. Running directly through the core of the city, the Rideau Canal is Ottawa's star fascination. In winter, the canal turns into the world's biggest ice-skating rink.

Interesting Facts: Ottawa is the seventh coldest capital in the world and nearly half the population is under the age of 35 – making it one of the youngest cities in the country.

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Whistler, BC

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Situated in the Coastal hills of British Columbia, Whistler - a two-hour trip from Vancouver adjacent Canada's very scenic drive, the Sea-to-Sky Highway. Because of two or three stupendous mountains called Whistler and Blackcomb, the Whistler resort is the biggest and most popular snow-capped ski goal in North America. Near the base of the two mountains are three quaint villages, Creek side, Whistler Village, and Upper Village. Peak 2 Peak gondola moves visitors from the villages to the hills.

Interesting Facts: Due to the large size of the mountains and their epic partnership, Whistler Blackcomb boasts the most skiable terrain in all North America, at a whopping 3,307 hectares.

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Vancouver Island, BC

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Vancouver Island, named after the British explorer George Vancouver, is the biggest island off the West Coast of the North American continent. Situated opposite Washington State, it is open by ferry through the San Juan Islands from Anacortes, from Vancouver or Port Angeles on the state's Olympic Peninsula, on terrain British Columbia. Vancouver Island is well known for the quaint city of Victoria, the stunning Butchart Gardens, the surf town of Tofino, where one can get a ferry to Prince Rupert, and the wild in the north and another to Alaska from that point.

Interesting Facts: It has been the homeland to many indigenous peoples for thousands of years and Vancouver Island is the world’s 43rd largest island, Canada’s 11th largest island.

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Quebec City, Quebec

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Quebec City might be the capital of the Quebec area in eastern Canada. However, its French legacy, design, and dialect make it seem more like an enchanting European village. Roasted on a slope sitting on top of the St. Lawrence River is Vieux Quebec, the city's architecturally significant area. A stroll along the cobblestone boulevards of the Old City offers experiences with attractions like the Citadel and the Place-Royale, the range where explorer, Samuel de Champlain, set up the principal North American-French settlement. The city's symbol, the staggering Chateau Frontenac, is seen as the most requested lodging in North America and provides visits even without an overnight remain.

Interesting Facts: The famous Canadian dish, Poutine, originated in the Quebec 67cheese curds. region. It consists of French fries, gravy, and

Toronto, Ontario

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The capital of Ontario, Toronto is the most populated city in Canada and additionally one of the biggest cities in North America. With an expansive number of ethnic areas like Chinatown, Little India, and Little Italy, Toronto is likewise one of the world's most socially diverse cities. The city's principal tourist draws extend from great landmarks, for example, the iconic CN Tower and the children's story castle of Casa Loma. Also, the Toronto Islands are a famous goal with beaches and open-air exercises.

Interesting Facts: Toronto is consistently listed in the 10 most livable cities in the world. One of our favorite facts about Toronto is that it has the only truly authentic castle in North America. Casa Loma has a breath-taking Gothic revival mansion and gardens are situated right near the Tarragon Theatre.

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Halifax, Nova Scotia

Image Credit: https://www.novascotia.com/sites/default/files/2019-05/aerial-HalifaxCitadel1920x1080.jpg

Despite the skyscrapers of more recent times, Halifax is still dominated by a starshaped, hilltop citadel. The city is not just the capital of Nova Scotia, it is also the commercial hub of Canada's Maritime provinces, as well as being an important centre for research, with at least six universities and colleges.

It's fine natural harbour cuts deeply into the Atlantic coastline, with docks, piers, parks, and industry along its entire length. The harbour and its seafaring history still shape life in the city, and you will find many of the things to do in Halifax – from its rollicking entertainment scene, infused with maritime music, to its museums and tourist attractions – relate in some way to its close relationship with the sea.

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Niagara Falls, Ontario

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Niagara Falls is a progression of three sensational waterfalls arranged on the street of Canada's Ontario and the US' New York. Ontario side of the Falls is known as Horseshoe Falls and provides the best perspectives and attractions. The smart zone encompassing the Falls is a leading tourist spot abounding in perception towers, eateries, keepsake shops, casinos and tall structure hotels. One of the greatest places to see the Niagara Falls on Ontario side is from Queen Victoria Park that the Falls are lit up, and fireworks are shown daily amid the summer.

Interesting Facts: Niagara Falls Consists of 3 Waterfalls and has the World’s Highest Flow Rate which also accounts for 20% of drinking water in the US. 70

Banff, Alberta

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A resort town with boutique shops, nightclubs, museums, and fancy restaurants may seem incongruous in this wild setting. But Banff is no ordinary town. It developed as a service centre for the park that surrounds it. Today it brings in busloads of tourists keen to commune with shops as much as nature, alongside artists and writers drawn to the Rockies' unparalleled majesty. Whether you love or loathe Banff's cosmopolitan edge, wander 15 minutes in any direction and you are back in wild country, a primeval world of bears, elk, and wolves.

Interesting Facts: Banff was always planned as a tourist town with the main drag, Banff Avenue, lined up with perfect views of Cascade Mountain. And you can go scuba diving at Lake Minnewanka in Banff and visit an underwater abandoned town.

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Vancouver, BC

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Arranged between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains in British Columbia and is favoured for its glorious landscapes that present a characteristic playground where visitors can swim in the ocean, roller blade through cool scenic parks and snow ski on the mountains across the board day. The third biggest metropolitan territory in the nation, Vancouver is a standout amongst the most prevalent cities to visit in Canada.

Vancouver's fascination is Stanley Park which covers a gigantic territory of woodlands, gardens and green spaces. A portion of the city's other best locales incorporates Granville Island's surprising nourishment market and Chinatown's lively cluster of shops.

Interesting Facts: The Port of Vancouver is the largest port in Canada and the third largest in North America. Archaeological records indicate that Aboriginal people were already living in the “Vancouver” area from 8,000 to 10,000 years ago.

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Top 10 National Parks 73

Mont-Tremblant National Park, Quebec

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The park is located on the north side of Mont-Tremblant town, in Quebec province, around two hours away from Montreal. This park was created in 1895 and is one of the oldest provincial parks in Quebec. This huge wildlife sanctuary is the second largest park in Quebec and is home to 6 rivers, 400 lakes, a myriad of waterfalls and numerous streams.

The park is divided into three main areas, the Diable River, the Pimbina Creek, and the Assomption River. The activities offered by the park are innumerable, and vary according to the seasons of the country, here we will mention the most frequented trails: 1) Hike the La Roche trail: It consists of a 5.4 km round trip trail that can be completed in 2 hours. The trail is rated as intermediate difficulty. At the top is a lush forest with a small stream.

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2) Devil’s Waterfall: Just 15 minutes away, you will find this wonderful waterfall. You can hear the enormous volume of water from far away. This is the best waterfall in the entire national park.

3) Kayaking on Lake Monroe: You can navigate through different small bays and go up the lake until you reach the Devil's River. The price range is from $30 to $35 for 4 hours of kayaking. Like the access to the trails, you will have to buy a day pass or have an annual pass to enter the park.

4) Dogsledding: If you are a dog lover, this activity is for you. It is perfect for contemplating and enjoying the park's trails, either by using your own sled or by purchasing a pass. Available from December to early April.

5) Cross-country skiing: There are approx. 53 km of ski runs which are divided into 10 circuits, ranging from easy to difficult. You can take a break in one of the 6 warming huts with wood stove.

Image credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/184318779@N06/50032242011

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Jasper National Park, Alberta

Image credit: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/10-things-cant-miss-first-visit-jasper/

The park was established in 1907. It is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies and is part of UNESCO's Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site.

It is in the province of Alberta, about 4 hours from Edmonton and about 5 hours from Calgary.

The park is surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, hot springs, lakes, and glaciers of the Columbia Icefield. Jasper spans 4,200 square miles (10,878 square km) and contains significant active geologic processes. Some of the park's scenic attractions include Mount Edith Cavell, Maligne Lake, Pyramid Lake, Tonquin Valley, Pyramid Mountain and Medicine Lake. There is also a 23-meter waterfall called Athabasca Falls, the size of the river makes it one of the most powerful waterfalls to be found in the mountain national parks.

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All kinds of activities can be done in this park from skiing, hiking its numerous mountains, camping, etc., but its main attraction is the wildlife viewing from grizzly bears, black bears, moose, wolves, mule deer, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, coyotes, beavers, and marmots. Jasper National Park has managed, through conservation efforts, to maintain wildlife and plant life, unlike other parks.

The park is ideal for astronomical observing because light pollution is so limited. The annual Jasper Dark Sky Festival is held in October.

https://inafarawayland.com/best-photography-spots-jasper-national-park/

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Banff National Park, Alberta

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Located in the Rocky Mountains of the province of Alberta, about two hours west of Calgary, Banff is surrounded by 6,641 square kilometers of mountainous terrain, with many glaciers and ice fields, dense coniferous forests, alpine landscapes, meadows, and rivers. It has a subarctic climate with three ecoregions, including montane, subalpine, and alpine.

Banff National Park is famous for its surreal colorful lakes, majestic mountains, and endless outdoor adventures. It is Canada's first national park and the flagship of the country's park system. What makes Banff National Park so special is its easy access and proximity to the vast, untouched wilderness of the Canadian Rockies. Banff is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Lake Louise is located inside the park and is one of the most visited. There you can do countless outdoor activities. Johnston Canyon is one of Banff National Park's most popular attractions and, in winter, is an impressive spectacle of natural ice sculptures when the thundering falls freeze over.

The Banff Gondola is an 8-minute glass-enclosed ride that takes you up Sulphur Mountain where you will find one of the best viewpoints in the entire park. At the top, you'll find fantastic restaurants, a scenic boardwalk, and a completely natural hot mineral water spring. It is the highest altitude hot spring in all of Canada and the only spring open to public bathing in the park. If you don't have a car, you can easily get there by taking the Bow Valley ROAM Transit bus on route 1. There is also another Gondola that crosses the entire Lake Louise, the duration is the 14 minutes.

https://www.istockphoto.com/search/2/image?phrase=banff+national+park+winter

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Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, British Columbia

Image credit: https://www.nationalparktraveller.com/poi/pacific-rim-national-park/

Located in the province of British Columbia, about 6 hours away from Vancouver, the park comprises three distinct regions: Long Beach, the Broken Group Islands, and the West Coast Trail. The park protects more than 500 square kilometers of thick forests, rocky shorelines and ocean on Vancouver Island, Canada. Pacific Rim is truly an amazing example of the power of nature and the sea.

Activities are mostly focused on the sea, but you can also hike the legendary West Coast Trail. Radar Hill is a historic radar station used during World War II. If the day is clear, you can see spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, Clayoquot Sound and Tofino Inlet with its many islands and mountains in the distance.

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Long Beach is the largest beach in the park, stretching along 16 kilometers (10 miles) of coastline between Tofino and Ucluelet. Long Beach has some of the most difficult waves to surf, so this beach is not for beginners. The year-round swell gives surfers an excuse to catch waves at any time, so don't be surprised when you visit in winter and find them splashing offshore.

If you're looking for a unique adventure, you can plan a multi-day kayaking excursion around the islands. In fact, it's one of the most popular ways to explore this section of Pacific Rim National Park. This tour features crystal clear waters and several camping spots on the islands. This means you can go back and forth and plan your route to stay at your favorites.

https://explorebcrentals.ca/pacific-rim-national-park-reserve-bc/

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Fundy National Park, New Brunswick

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Located in the Bay of Fundy, near the town of Alma in the province of New Brunswick, around 2 hours away from Fredericton. It was officially opened in 1950. The Park features a rugged coastline that rises to the Canadian highlands, the highest tides in the world, and more than 25 waterfalls. The Park occupies an area of 207 km2 along Goose Bay. When you look across the bay, you can see the northern coast of Nova Scotia.

Atlantic Ocean Walk: Discover a part of this ocean you would never have seen if it weren't for Fundy's extraordinary tides. As you walk the 1 km stretch to the water's edge, you will have the opportunity to investigate the small creatures that the receding waters left behind. The sunset and sunrise are wonderful from this view.

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Fundy National Park has over 100 kilometers of trails and they vary in difficulty, so no matter your physical condition, you'll find one that suits your condition.

Another not very common activity is snorkeling with salmon. In this unique program, biologists, interpreters, and First Nations experts guide visitors through the calm waters of the Upper Salmon River in search of the Bay of Fundy Atlantic salmon, one of the most endangered animals in eastern North America. In addition to enjoying nature, participants learn about the park's extensive conservation efforts to save the species from extinction.

Image credit: https://www.waterfall-picture-guide.com/dickson-falls.html

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Kluane National Park, Yukon Territory

Image credit: https://unsplash.com/s/photos/kluane-national-park-and-reserve-of-canada %2C-canada The park is located in the southwest corner of the province of Yukon, the park is composed of two protected areas. Mountains and glaciers dominate the park's landscape, covering 83% of its surface. You can contemplate and hike in Mount Logan, Canada's highest peak. Ancient glaciers feed the Alsek River, which flows through the expansive Alsek Valley, where you can practice Rafting. Hiking is a popular activity on trails such as St. Elias Lake, Mush Lake Road, Shorty Creek, Cottonwood, Rock Glacier, King's Throne, Kokanee, Auriol, Dezadeash River Trail, Alsek Trail, Sheep Creek Trail, Bullion Plateau Trail, Slims West, or Soldiers Summit.

It is very possible that bears may be seen near the road when driving along the two roads that border the park. A day-use area with boating, picnic facilities and camping area is located on Lake Kathleen and operates from mid-May to mid-September.

84

Prince Edward Island National Park, Prince Edward Island

Image credit: https://newengland.com/yankee-magazine/travel/national-parks

It is located in the province of Prince Edward Island, half an hour away from Charlottetown. Situated along the north coast of the island, facing the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the park is approximately 60 km long. Established in 1937, the park's mandate includes the protection of numerous wide sandy beaches, dunes and freshwater wetlands and marshes.

It has numerous beaches, but one of the most visited is Cavendish Beach. The water is perfect in summer, the sand is always ready to form magnificent castles and the sunsets are unbeatable. The Cavendish Beach Music Festival is held there. Brackley Beach is a beautiful beach where the rocks, water, dunes, and sky combine to create a stunning array of colors. Surfing can be practiced in all its beaches.

85

Bruce Peninsula National Park, Ontario

Image credit: https://maps.roadtrippers.com/trips/21465865

Located on part of the Niagara Escarpment, in the Ontario providence, about 3.5 hours from Toronto. The park comprises 156 square kilometers and is one of the largest protected areas in southern Ontario, forming the core of the UNESCO Niagara Escarpment World Biosphere Reserve. It was created in 1987 to protect the rock formations and shoreline of the Niagara Escarpment.

Rugged limestone cliffs rise mysteriously from the turquoise waters of Lake Huron (Sauble Beach), creating a breathtaking contrast that is must-see. As the rocks give way to rich soil, ageless forests take over the air with the scents of conifers and the symphony of countless birds.

86

The park has a very rare collection of wildflowers and ancient trees. It is home to over 40 species of orchids, even though these varieties of flowers are mostly tropical. This makes your hikes an unforgettable experience.

Millions of years of erosion have caused intricate limestone caves, such as The Grotto, to form on the shores of Georgian Bay. The blue and green waters of the bay with the backdrop of carved rocks and rock formations create a breathtaking sight that is well worth the hike. To reach the grotto you must descend the rocky cliffs: 12 m up the face of an open, rocky cliff.

Driftwood Cove is home to an ancient, globally rare cliff-edge ecosystem with the oldest trees in eastern North America, 10 federally listed species at risk. A total of 8 kilometers of the famous Bruce Trail - Canada's oldest and longest marked trail traverses this property.

Image credit: https://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g1131571-d2218820-i43857547Sauble_Falls_Provincial

87

Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, Nova Scotia

Image credit: https://www.novascotia.com/see-do/attractions/kejimkujik-national-park

Two hours from Halifax, you will find this incredible park. Located in the southwest of Nova Scotia peninsula. Consists of two separate land areas: an inland part, which is coincident with the Kejimkujik National Historic Site of Canada, and the Kejimkujik National Park Seaside on the Atlantic coast.

There are petroglyph deposits, habitation sites, fishing and hunting sites, travel routes and cemeteries, which testify to the occupation of this area by the Mi'kmaq people for thousands of years. The coastal part is a nature protection area with coastal peat bogs, beaches, intertidal zones and abundant flora and fauna.

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There's a trail for everyone here. Stroll through groves of 300-year-old hemlock trees, test your mountain biking skills on the Ukme'k trail, or visit a heavily forested farm. Trails in the main park range from short riverside walks and 0.5-6 km hiking trails to longdistance hiking trails to remote regions of the park, complete with wilderness campsites.

During the summer months, you can enjoy the Merrymakedge Beach or swim in the warm waters of Lake Kejimkujik. You can choose a sandy beach or one of the many lakes along the trails and canoe routes.

https://visitsouthshore.ca/stories/new-for-2021-at-kejimkujik-national-park-national-historic-site/

89

Nahanni National Park, Northwest Territories

Image credit: https://www.pinterest.com.au/pin/414190496971315197/

Getting to this park is complicated and the drive is long, but it is 100% worth it.

Located in southwest of the Northwest Territories, about 24 hours from Yellowknife or about 18 hours from Fort Simpson.

The largest waterfall in Canada is placed in this park. Virginia Falls, South Nahanni River rushes down a 96-meter cliff, twice the height of Niagara Falls, split by the great spire of Mason's Rock, which creates a rush of water and a shuddering of the earth.

Paddle the South Nahanni River: On its way, the river passes through awe-inspiring gorges, over wonderful waterfalls, and through hot mineral springs, their heat producing vegetation that is unusual for these climes. Canoeing this intense stretch is suitable only for those with whitewater experience. (A permit must be obtained from park authorities.)

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Food & Restaurants 91

Tourtière

Image Credit: https://www.readersdigest.ca/travel/canada/10-must-try-canadian-dishes/

A tourtière is a French-Canadian meal typically consisting of a pie shell, ground beef, pork, veal, or fish with herbs and spices baked in a deep dish of the same name. It is very popular around Christmas time and New Year in Quebec. There are several restaurants with the Tourtière on their menu but one of the best places to have it is at Aux Anciens Canadiens, a charming traditional restaurant in Quebec City.

Image Credit: http://www.auxancienscanadiens.qc.ca/photos.htm#20

92

Poutine

Image Credit: https://smokespoutinerie.com/menu/

This dish is said to have been created in 1950s rural Quebec and become popular around Canada in 1999. One of Canada’s most popular dishes; poutine is made of fries, rich meat-based gravy, and ‘squeaky’ cheese curds. No one is certain who invented the dish as it has been claimed by more than one person.

Poutine can be found in several chain restaurants in Canada, one of the most popular being Smoke’s Poutinerie which has several spots throughout the country.

Image Credit: https://leonscentre.com/smokes/

93

Hodge Podge

Image Credit: https://xyuandbeyond.com/traditional-canadian-food/

Local to Nova Scotia, the Hodge podge is a stew made up of vegetables such as potatoes, peas, green beans, wax beans, and carrots cooked in a milk broth with butter, pepper, and salt. It can also be eaten with canned beef, diced mutton, or tuna. This unique comfort food can be found in several diners across Nova Scotia like Edna Restaurants.

Image Credit: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/halifax-s-edna-nominated-for-best-new-restaurant-in-ca nada-1.2729873

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Split Pea Soup

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/homemade-green-spring-pea-soup-in-a-white-bowl-gm46552181 0-59218518

This historic dish can be traced back to French explorer Samuel de Champlain when he and other inhabitants settled in what is known today as Quebec. They invented this soup made with cured meats and dried peas along with vegetables they cultivated. This discovery was made by Ottawa’s chef Marc Miron who decided to recreate the dish and sell it at his gourmet food shop; Cuisine & Passion.

Image Credit: https://www.facebook.com/cuisinepassionorleans/photos/139737986168330

95

Lobster Roll

Image Credit: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/prince-edward-island/pei-best-lobster-roll-1.3686904

Of the 4 provinces in the Maritimes, Prince Edward Island is most famous for its lobster which is often boiled or steamed in seawater and served along with butter on a crusty bun with mayonnaise. One of the most recommended spots to try this fresh Island favorite is at By the Bay Restaurant at North Rustico.

Image Credit: https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Diner/By-the-Bay-Family-Restaurant-104055201348312 /

96

Salmon Candy

Image Credit: https://barbecuebible.com/recipe/salmon-candy-2/

Canada’s West Coast boasts some of the best seafood, especially British Columbia’s salmon which can be prepared and eaten in various ways. The candied salmon was created by the Indigenous people who caught wild salmon, marinaded with sugar or maple syrup, and then had it brined and smoked. Candied salmon can be found at farmer’s markets and seafood stores, one of them being The Flying Pig –Yaletown.

Image Credit: https://www.yelp.ca/biz_photos/the-flying-pig-yaletown-vancouver?select=4R3-KLQpKrn_ g6ShS6O3vQ

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Bannock

Image Credit: https://anitalianinmykitchen.com/bannock/

Bannock is a baking powder bread that the Indigenous people (especially the Métis of western Canada) made from corn flour, roots, tree sap, and baking powder. The name is believed to be given by Scottish settlers in Canada at the time they came into contact with the Indigenous peoples and their culture, but the Inuit called it Muqpaura. Now you can find several food trucks and restaurants serving indigenous cuisine, one of them being The Bannock House in Regina, Saskatchewan.

Image Credit: https://www.facebook.com/thebannockhouse/photos/a.514299145401485/1794051704092883

98

Nanaimo Bars

Image Credit: https://www.readersdigest.ca/travel/canada/10-must-try-canadian-dishes/

Named after the city in which it was created; Nanaimo, BC, this dessert is a threelayered square made of a coconut and cracker crumb base, sweet custard in the middle, and a chocolate ganache-like topping. There are so many flavors that can be added to this but the traditional one has just three layers. For dessert lovers, this national dessert has a food trail that promises savory adventures, one of them being the Wee Cupcakery; Nanaimo’s first artisan baker located in the Old City Quarter.

Image Credit: Google Maps

99

Maple Syrup Taffy

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/roll-maple-syrup-close-up-gm185243347-19625445

Canada’s singular most popular food item, maple syrup has several uses, one of which is maple syrup taffy, a candy made by pouring hot maple sugar over ice to form the chewy treat. It is very easy to make and sold in several tourist shops around Canada, but it is originally produced in sugar shacks in Quebec only during the winter months. One of the best places to have a tasting experience would be at Au Pied de Cochon, which is conveniently located just outside of Montreal.

Image Credit: https://www.amexessentials.com/how-to-make-maple-taffy-maple-syrup-taffy/

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BeaverTails The Canadian pastry is named so for its resemblance to the tail of a beaver. It is shaped like a flattened donut without a hole. This treat can be customized with toppings like sugar, Nutella, bananas, chocolate, etc. It was made by the Hooker family who shared it with the public in 1978 and afterward, opened several outlets around the country with the first being in Ottawa,

Ontario.

For

an

authentic

experience, BeaverTails can be found at their permanent kiosk at the Byward Market in Ottawa.

Image Credit: https://beavertails.com/#

Image Credit: https://www.kissottawa.com/supportlocal/beavertails-byward-market/

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Top 5 Beaches & Lakes 102

Parlee Beach, New Brunswick

Image credit: https://www.experienceshediac.ca/event/seashore-explore-at-parlee-beach

25 minutes from Moncton, in the province of New Brunswick you will find this wonderful space. Parlee, one of North America's finest beaches, boasts the warmest saltwater in Canada and has received international Blue Flag eco-certification.

Parlee Beach Provincial Park encourages active transportation with its multi-use trail leading to its guarded beach. Since it is a provincial park, it has many outdoor activities, apart from swimming. You can hike, go to the boutiques, and enjoy the wonderful food.

The Parlee Beach Provincial Park campground is ideally located, just a 10-minute walk from the warm saltwater beach. The campground has a camp store, amphitheater, changing rooms, showers, washrooms, a playground, picnic area and ample parking.

103

Kitsilano Beach, British Columbia

Image credit: https://www.viator.com/Vancouver-attractions/Kitsilano-Beach/d616-a21623

Located at the northern end of the Kitsilano neighborhood, just 3.4 km from Vancouver, British Columbia, is the beach overlooking English Bay. The beach is home to Canada's longest swimming pool, the Kitsilano Outdoor Saltwater Pool, managed by the Vancouver Parks Board and open annually from May to September.

Swimming in the Pacific Ocean is one of the great pleasures of Kitsilano Beach. There are specially designated sections for swimming enthusiasts, so you don't have to worry about bumping into kayaks or boats.

Kitsilano's enclosed pool is a good alternative to swimming in the ocean if you're wave-averse, though don't let the word "pool" fool you: the water here is almost as salty as the Pacific, but considerably warmer.

104

Shallow Bay, Newfoundland & Labrador

Image credit: https://ca.hotels.com/ho458137/shallow-bay-motel-cabins-cow-head-canada/

This beach is located within the Gros Morne National Park in the province of Newfoundland, the second largest national park in Atlantic Canada, after the Torngat Mountains National Park.

The beach has soft, pale sand for 5 km. The main beach is protected from the waves by rocky islets, and the shallow waters warm up to swimming temperature in summer.

The day-use area has parking, restrooms, and picnic tables. The area attracts shorebirds, especially in the fall, when there can be hundreds of migrating shorebirds clustered on the upper beach at high tide.

Let your feet step on strange but beautiful rocks as you hike the Tablelands, located in the southern part of Gros Morne, consists of a 3-hour guided hike that will allow you to enjoy breathtaking mountain and sea views from high above.

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Grand Beach Provincial Park, Manitoba

Image credit: https://winnipeg.ctvnews.ca/manitoba-provincial-parks

Located in the province of Manitoba, about an hour and a half from Winnipeg. It is considered one of the most popular parks in North America with warm sandy beaches and dunes that reach 9 meters high. It has self-guided trails so you can go at your own pace, as well as enjoy water activities.

Activities include boating, hiking, biking, sailing, fishing, water skiing, windsurfing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, interpretive tours, and swimming. Tennis court, playground, beach, amphitheater, picnic areas, boat launch.

106

Îles de la Madeleine, Quebec

Image credit: https://www.guidesulysse.com/fr/fiche-contenu.aspx?id=100076

The islands are a small archipelago located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Although part of the province of Quebec, the islands are closer to the Maritime Provinces and Newfoundland than to the Gaspé Peninsula on the Quebec mainland.

La Salicorne is a family resort that offers several different packages (including an allinclusive) and is also located in one of the favorite areas of the islands: Grande Entrée, which is a little wilder than the rest of the archipelago. The resort also offers several interesting excursions. The more adventurous will want to explore the islands' caves.

The island has an excellent economy, so if you are a food lover, there are plenty of restaurants to eat and share.

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Top 5 Museums & Libraries 108

Royal BC Museum

Image credit: https://www.artnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/listing_64542_2.jpg

The Royal British Columbia Museum was founded in 1886 and houses the natural and human history museum as well as the British Columbia Provincial Archives. It’s located in Victoria, British Columbia. In 1987, Queen Elizabeth II approved the "Royal" title, which HRH Prince Philip gave to conjunction with a Royal trip that year. This museum holds a lot of history and culture.

Natural History, Becoming BC, and the First Peoples Gallery are among the permanent galleries of the Royal BC Museum. Natural history specimens, antiquities, and archival documents make up the museum's collection, which totals over 7 million pieces. The natural history collections have 750,000 specimen records, all of which are from British Columbia and neighboring states, provinces, or territories. Entomology, botany, paleontology, ichthyology, invertebrate zoology, herpetology, mamma logy, and ornithology are among the eight disciplines represented in the collection. Touring exhibits are also held at the museum. The RMS Titanic, Leonardo da Vinci, Egyptian treasures, the Vikings, the British Columbia gold rushes, and Genghis Khan have all been included in previous shows.

109

Canadian War Museum

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/65/d2/96/65d296068dfc4815926160c8b2aeb4a0.jpg

The Canadian War Museum, located in Ottawa Ontario, is a national museum dedicated to the country's military history. In addition to acting as a site of commemoration, the museum functions as an instructional institution on Canadian military history. The museum can be located by LeBreton Flats, south of the Ottawa River, and it is about as large as 440,000-square-meters. A restaurant, theatre, curatorial and conservation areas, as well as storage space, are all located within the museum.

The Military History Research Centre, as well as the museum's library and archives, are all located within the same structure for public viewing.

110

Fort Henry National Historic Site

https://dynamic-media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-o/01/16/be/af/fort-henry-guard-march.jpg? w=1200&h=-1&s=1

The Fort Henry National Historic Site is located on Point Henry in Kingston, Ontario, near the Catafalque River. Henry Hamilton, the previous Lieutenant-Governor of the Province of Quebec, was honored with the fort and the site on which it was built.

During the War of 1812, the first fort was built on Point Frederick to protect the Kingston Royal Naval Dockyard (now the Royal Military College of Canada) from a possible American invasion and to monitor maritime activity on the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario. In the 1830s, the ancient fort was demolished and replaced by a considerably bigger structure to guard the naval dockyard and the Rideau Canal's southern entrance. The fort was renovated in the 1930s and is now a popular tourist destination. It is a great attraction for individuals who love history and law.

111

Royal Ontario Museum

https://olaspeciallibraries.files.wordpress.com/2018/04/romcrystal3.jpgw=1024&h=633&cop=1

The Royal Ontario Museum, which opened in 1914, exhibits art, culture, and natural history from all around the world and throughout history. Canada's biggest and most comprehensive museum houses a world-class collection of 13 million artworks, cultural artifacts, and natural history specimens in 40 gallery and exhibition venues, making it one of the top ten cultural institutions in North America. The ROM is a critical part in advancing our understanding of the artistic, cultural, and natural worlds as the country's foremost field research institute and an international pioneer in new discoveries. The ROM serves as a national monument and a vibrant cultural attraction in the centre of Toronto for anyone to enjoy, combining its historic building with the contemporary design of Daniel Libeskind with Michael Lee-Chin Crystal.

The Helga and Mike Schmidt Performance Terrace and the Reed Family Plaza were officially opened to the public on August 21, 2019, giving visitors a new way to see the ROM. With garden-side seating and an open-air space for music, theatre, conversation, and performances, the new terrace and plaza on Bloor Street offers an inviting outdoor spot to meet and unwind.

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The third and final phase of the ROM's Welcome Project is the unveiling of the Helga and Mike Schmidt Performance Terrace and the Reed Family Plaza. The following phase, which opened in April 2018, provided free public access to the ROM's Daphne Cockwell Gallery, which is dedicated to First Nations art and culture. The ROM also has additional galleries open from time to time. It is a great way to see some unique artwork and learn about history.

Image Credits: https://www.rom.on.ca/sites/default/files/imce/ROM_strategic_plan_highlight.png

Image Credits: https://albinger.files.wordpress.com/2017/11/overview-of-taoist-and-buddhist-muralsrom-bishop-white-gallery.jpg

113

Library of Parliament

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The Library of Parliament is the Canadian Parliament's principal research facility and go to for any historical documentation. The main branch of the library is located at the back of the Centre Block on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario, and is the sole undamaged portion of the larger structure's original existence after it burned down in 1916. Since its establishment in 1876, the library has undergone several additions and renovations, the most recent of which took place between 2002 and 2006, however the structure and décor have remained mostly same. The structure is now a Canadian symbol and is shown on the ten-dollar bill's obverse. The Canadian Parliamentary Librarian and an associate or assistant librarian oversee the library. This building is an Iconic and historic building filled with many documentations dating back hundreds of years. This library gets about 3 million visitors per year.

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Fun Activities for Individuals, Families & Couples 115

Activities for Couples Hôtel de Glace - Valcartier, Québec Activity

Price

Hôtel de Glace

Start at $399/night

Old Quebec promises several wonderful experiences for couples looking for an adventure. You can tie the knot in a frostcovered chapel and spend a romantic night for two at the charming Hôtel De Glace with its captivating architecture of 40,000 tons of snow and 5,000 tons of ice it is the only ice hotel in North America. Take a stroll through the old city, explore the Winter Carnival, try some Caribou liquor and celebrate with the locals. Reservations can be made via the website.

Image Credit: https://www.quebec-cite.com/en/what-to-do-quebeccity/snow

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/entrance-to-ice-hotel-quebec-gm1199315478-343084563

116

The Northern Lights - Whitehorse, Yukon Activity For 2 nights For 3 nights For 4 nights

Price $545 + $164 supplement room $695 + $246 supplement room $855 + $328 supplement room

Watch the Aurora Borealis play across the sky in magical colors over the night sky during the winter season between 10pm and 3am.

During the day, you can engage in other activities like dog-mushing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, or snow shoeing and camp out in a cozy cabin for two or a wall tent watching the night sky. The Northern Lights can also be viewed around other parts of Canada too like

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/canoeing-with-auro British Columbia, Northern Saskatchewan, ra-borealis-over-mountain-range-in-maligne-lake-at-jaspe Newfoundland, Northwest Territories and Nova r-national-gm1316485288-404214329

Scotia. Tours can be booked via The Northern Tales website or through other booking sites.

Image Credit: https://www.northerntales.ca/tour/basic-aurora-borealis-packages/

117

Butchart Gardens – Victoria, British Columbia

The

Activity

Price

General admission

$56.60 for 2 adults

12 month passes

$144 for 2 adults

Butchart

Gardens

offers

quiet,

leisurely strolls in nature while enjoying tea or lunch for two around stunning fountains, exotic plants in various sections like the Japanese Garden, the Sunken Garden, the Rose Garden, the Mediterranean Garden, and the Italian Garden. The Garden is a 115year-old National Historic Site of Canada and carries about 900 varieties of flora over 55 acres of land.

Image Credit: https://www.facebook.com/butchartgardens/phot os/10155589392826295

Tickets can be purchased via their website or on site and opening hours are currently 9am – 3:30 pm. Tour times are subject to seasons.

Image Credit: https://www.facebook.com/butchartgardens/photos/10155700454701295

118

Activities for Individuals CN Tower EdgeWalk – Toronto, Ontario Activity Adult (13+)

Price $195 + tax/person

Experience the world’s highest full circle hands free external walk on a 5ft wide ledge encircling the CN Tower’s main pod.

At 356m/1168ft above ground, it provides an aerial view across the whole of Toronto and a thrilling experience. With elastic suspensions tied to the participant’s body, doing the EdgeWalk is one of the best things to do in Canada for adventure lovers of all age groups. Currently open for spring 2022, tours are available from 10am – 10pm, reservations and tickets can be

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/cn-tower-and-sk yline-gm165247215-23472902

bought on the CN Tower website.

Image Credit: https://www.cntower.ca/en-ca/plan-your-visit/attractions/edgewalk/edgewalk-overview.html

119

Polar Bear Safari – Churchill, Manitoba Activity

Price

Autumn Day Tours (October – November)

$529/person

Summer Day Tours (July – August)

$249/person

Meet polar bears up close in their natural habitat in the isolated town on Churchill in Northern Manitoba, also known as the polar bear capital of the world. The safari will take you into areas with a high probability of wildlife sightings like arctic foxes, artic hares, snowy owls, caribou, other incredible fauna and flora of different varieties. Visiting during the autumn or summer provides different landscapes and colors on the Hudson Bay Coast. Tours and accompanying packages can

be

booked

with

Tundra

Image Credit: https://www.businessinsider.com/the-tundra-lodge-r olling-hotel-2014-11

Buggy

Adventures on their website.

Image Credit: https://www.thrillophilia.com/things-to-do-in-canada

120

Road Trip or Mountain climbing - Banff, Alberta Activity

Price

Daily Park pass

Adult - $10, Senior - $8.40

Annual Discovery pass

Adult - $69.19, Senior - $59.17

The Canadian Rockies span over 5 National Parks – Jasper, Yoho, Kootenay, Waterton and Banff and brings together stunning turquoise lakes, dramatic wilderness and diverse wildlife.

Banff National Park is only an hour and half away. This UNESCO World Heritage Site holds a lot of beauty and 1,600km of trails for keen hikers. For trekkers, the Summits of Canada site offers a lot of information for walking tours Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images.

or camping sites while taking a road trip across https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/hiker-admires-vie w-of-mount-robson-canadian-rockies-canada-gm12804 the park along with prices for park passes. For 20841-378734072 seasoned climbers, Mount Forbes, the highest peak of Banff stands at an altitude of around 11,851ft above sea level.

Image Credit: https://www.thrillophilia.com/things-to-do-in-canada

121

Sky Diving – Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Activity Tandem Jump Solo First Jump Progressive Freefall

For

the

thrill

chasers

and

Price $300/adult $250/adult $1,495/adult

adrenaline

seekers, one of the best things to try in Canada

would

be

skydiving

over

Saskatchewan. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned skydiver, you can come for the summer, for a day or a custom period, there are several options available based on your preferences.

You can tandem skydiving with an instructor at different elevations above sea level or go

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/young-wo man-skydiver-jumping-from-the-plane-gm12958 79348-389469191

solo, Skydive South Sask in Moose Jaw, Saskatoon offers professional services and equipment to assure the utmost safety, care and fun.

They also provide photo opportunities to immortalize your moment in the sky. Head along to their website for more information on how to reserve your course/session.

Image Credit: https://www.thrillophilia.com/things-to-do-in-canada

122

Activities for Families Rideau Canal & River Cruise – Ottawa, Ontario Activity Rideau Canal Cruise Ottawa River Cruise Combo

Price Adult - $34.95 Adult - $31.50 Adult - $51.55

Discover Canada’s capital city in a unique way by spending a few hours cruising along the rideau canal and Ottawa river. The Rideau canal is a chain of beautiful lakes, canals and locks that conglomerate into a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the cruise, enjoy a novel view of historical landmarks like Parliament Hill, The National Arts Centre, the Royal

Canadian

Mint,

Rideau

Falls,

Image Credit: https://www.ottawaboatcruise.com/tour /pauls-boat-line

Lansdowne Park etc. The tours run from May to October and tickets can be bought at the docks or via the site; Ottawa Boat Cruise.

Image Credit: https://www.thrillophilia.com/things-to-do-in-canada

123

Visit Niagara Falls – Niagara, Ontario Activity Hotel for a family Fallsview Waterpark Day Pass Sightseeing Tours

Price Family of 4 - starts at $150/night $60/person Family of 4 - $483.39

Experiencing the Niagara Falls is one of the most famous places for families to visit for its beauty and reputation. In addition, there are many options like the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, the Indoor water parks, the Street of Fun, Animal lovers Paradise, the Skylon Tower etc. Get the chance to marvel at the crystalclear water cascading from an altitude of about 188ft above sea level at a speed of 20 – 30mph. There are several different tours and reservations you can make based on your

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/two-kids-looki ng-at-niagara-falls-through-paying-binoculars-gm133 6737350-417898293

preferences via Niagara Falls Sightseeing Tours or Niagara Falls Canada.

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/niagara-falls-view-from-above-gm1175573894-327417315

124

Capilano Suspension Bridge – Vancouver, British Columbia Activity

Price

Family of 3 (2 adults & 1 child)

$130

Family of 4 (2 adults & 2 children)

$150

The suspension bridge is made of 7 footbridges, and it crosses over the Capilano River In North Vancouver with a total length of 450ft (137m) and hangs at 230ft (70m) above the river. While walking at this height, learn more about the nature, history and culture of this place. Enjoy the views of the river below and the rainforest vegetation as you navigate

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/capilano-suspension-b ridge-lighted-up-at-night-gm642183214-116391297

its platforms and stairs.

The original structure which was built in 1889 has been replaced and maintained over the years is still strong enough to hold 96 full grown elephants! The park is open from February to November, 10am – 7pm and tickets can be bought on the Cap Bridge website.

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/capilano-bridge-van couver-british-columbia-canada-gm1336055568-4174523 31

125

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/whistler-winter-village-at-dusk-gm615822482-106945019

Resorts, Hotels & Clubs 126

Echo Valley Ranch & Spa, BC

Image Credit: https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/echo-valley-ranch-spa-book-break-paradise-resortbc-2019

The hour-long journey to the ranch from the nearest small town bumps down a gravel road winding through lush forest between swooping mountains dotted with pines — and no, there is no mobile signal at the end of the road. Splendid isolation is guaranteed here surrounded by British Columbia’s most beautiful mountains,, canyons and forests.

This feels far less like a hotel than a stay with friends in their amazing home. The staff, and ranch owners, Nan and Norm are welcoming and warmly hospitable, and over shared meals at the communal table it’s easy to feel part of the extended family.

Facilities include a spacious indoor pool, gym, and sauna with views over the mountains, a well-stocked games room with cards and shuffleboard, archery, target shooting in the woods, and a movie and TV room.

127

Ste. Anne’s Spa and Resort , Ontario

Image Credit: https://escapism.to/guides/vacation-ideas/best-ontario-spas/

This thermal water wonderland is at the top of our relaxation bucket list. Just a twohour drive north of Toronto and you're transported into tranquillity on 25 acres of natural forest with views of the Niagara Escarpment. Heat up during the colder months in a series of hydrotherapy Scandinavian baths, release endorphins under the Nordic waterfall and digital detox in the heart of nature.

In the warmer months, experience a different kind of bathing on their certified forest bathing trail. A slow, mindful walk through the woods can help reduce stress levels and fatigue by reconnecting with something other than a pigeon on concrete.

128

The Wickaninnish Inn, Tofino, BC

Image Credit: https://ediblevancouverisland.ediblecommunities.com/guide/wickaninnish-inn

Perhaps the best known of BC's stunning coastal wilderness lodges, the historic Wickaninnish Inn opened its doors in 1995 in Tofino and continues to offer guests an unsurpassed

vacation

experience.

Consisting

of

a

selection

of

75

elegant

accommodations, this stunning 5-star luxury inn also offers larger suites for those who need a little more space.

Whatever size room you reserve, you'll enjoy standard features such as a large soaker tub, a real wood-burning fireplace, and a spacious private balcony with panoramic ocean views. The same scenic vistas can be enjoyed from the resort's dining room, The Pointe Restaurant, as well as from the full-service Ancient Cedars Spa. 129

Rebel Nightclub, Toronto, Ontario

Image Credit: https://tranceported.com/clubs-venues/rebel/

Perhaps the best known of BC's stunning coastal wilderness lodges, the historic Wickaninnish Inn opened its doors in 1995 in Tofino and continues to offer guests an unsurpassed

vacation

experience.

Consisting

of

a

selection

of

75

elegant

accommodations, this stunning 5-star luxury inn also offers larger suites for those who need a little more space.

Whatever size room you reserve, you'll enjoy standard features such as a large soaker tub, a real wood-burning fireplace, and a spacious private balcony with panoramic ocean views. The same scenic vistas can be enjoyed from the resort's dining room, The Pointe Restaurant, as well as from the full-service Ancient Cedars Spa. 130

Four Seasons Hotel Montreal, Quebec

Image Credit: https://www.fourseasons.com/montreal/

The building shimmers with black glass, but it's not really meant to be looked at from the outside, the main entrance is a four-lane drop off in the basement Inside, though, details are obsessed over, such as the golden trim marking the shift between the restaurants, the spa, the rooms. Soft wallpapers of forests give onto light damped terraces.

Services offered here include a bar, fitness centre, parking, pool, restaurant, room service sauna, spa and wi-fi. At the heart of the hotel’s social space is star chef Marcus Samuelsson’s restaurant. Guests are greeted by a cooler containing his experiments in cured fish. The rest of the menu is delicate and delicious, if not very conscious of air miles. There is yellowtail from Japan and sea bass from Europe.

131

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/clock-tower-gate-gm466497932-60507486

COLOMBIA 132

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133

About Colombia Image Credit: https ://www.vectorstock.com/royalty-free-vector/republic-of-col ombia-map-vector-1983093

Nicknamed “the gateway to South America”, the Republic of Colombia is located in the northwestern part of the continent where South America meets with Central and North America. It borders Panama to the northwest, Venezuela, Brazil to the east, and Peru and Ecuador to the south. The national currency is the Colombian peso, its capital city is Bogotá and a population of about 49,592,000 people making it the fifth-largest country in Latin America, and with Spanish being its official language, it is home to the second largest population of Spanish speakers in the world.

With a people as diverse as its landscapes, the climate is generally tropical; the rainforest region experiences more rainfall and monsoons than other regions. The Atlantic lowlands have savanna conditions of dominantly wet and dry seasons. In the mountains, it ranges from moderate rainfall and temperatures to frequent winds and fog at its lower levels and perpetual snow and ice at its highest elevations.

Due to its biodiversity and multicultural nature, each city you visit offers a unique journey and experience., with different foods, music and cultures. There are 6 regions which house their own departments (32): The Andean Region (Antioquia, Boyacá, Caldas, Cundinamarca, Huila, Norte de Santander, Quindío, Risaralda, Santander, Tolima), The Amazon Region (Amazonas, Caquetá, Guainía, Guaviare, Putumayo, Vaupés), The Pacific Region (Valle del Cauca, Cauca, Chocó, Nariño), The Caribbean Region (Atlántico, Bolívar, Cesar, Córdoba, La Guajira, Magdalena, Sucre), The Orinoco Region (Arauca, Casanare, Meta, Vichada), The Insular Region (San Andres y Providence).

134

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/small-wharf-in-sapzurro-gm483532223-37502406

Top 12 Beaches 135

Crab Cay - Providencia

Image Credit: https://www.wildandaway.com/crab-cay-providencia/

As you may have already learned from our intro Crab Cay is located off the coast of the most beautiful Caribbean Island of Providencia Colombia.

However, to be more specific, Crab Cay is actually located in one of Colombia’s protected national parks, called Old Providence McBean Lagoon National Natural Park, which is one of three national parks with coral reefs in Colombia’s Caribbean, with the other two being Tayrona National Park, and Rosario & San Bernardo Corals.

If you look at Providencia on a map, it’s located geographically closer to Nicaragua than it is to Colombia. However, it is just a 20-minute flight from San Andres, yet another Colombian island seemingly lost in the Caribbean.

136

Cerro pilón de azúcar - Guajira

Image Credit: https://www.gotravelandtalk.com/colombia/cabo-de-la-vela-and-puntagallinas-travel-guide

Another beach paradise of Cabo de la Vela is that which the great guardian Pilon de Azucar protects. It's a sheer mountain that falls into the sea, from which the views of the Cape are awesome. The beach is about a 40 minute walk from the village. You won't believe your eyes once you get there. The breaking waves are loud, but they aren't dangerous, and the sea is incredibly warm.

The Cerro Pilón de Azúcar can be found at the end of the beach and is a sacred place of the Wayuu people and popular with travellers looking for panoramic views over the deserts of Guajira and the Caribbean waters. Whilst the uphil climb can be tough in the heat (15 minute walk), it is worth it for the views.

137

Capurganá - Chocó

Image Credit: https://elturismoencolombia.com/en/tourism-colombia/choco-colombiatravel/capurgana-caribbean-beaches-choco/

Although Colombia has a extensive coastline in the Caribbean, many coastal waters are turbid due to sediment from large rivers that flow into the sea. One exception is the short length of 30 km that starts from the border with Panama (Cape Tiburon) to the Acandi municipality. This stretch of coastline is bathed by crystal clear waters suitable for practice of Scuba diving and snorkeling. Beyond the Acandí Township and bordering half of the Caribbean coast to the archipelago of San Bernardo in the Gulf of Morrosquillo.

The best time for diving is in the middle of the winter season from April to November when the waves practically disappear. During the summer from January to March the wave action becomes intense, making navigation difficult and not appropriate for tourists unaccustomed to sea life.

138

Isla Barú - Bolívar

Image Credit: https://www.cartagenaconnections.com/beach-and-islands.html

Baru is a pretty big island and in addition to Playa Blanca, there's also quite a few private residences and private hotels located there.

One good option on Baru but not Playa Blanca is Aura. Their day passes are very well organised and depart 8.15am most days and return at around 4.30pm by private boat owned by the hotel (and includes pick up from your hotel). You get to hang out on the private beach where they have chairs and hammocks for you to enjoy, a typical and tasty seafood lunch is included, you can use the Hotel's kayaks, beach volleyball court and facilities, and they will also ferry you across to the beautiful Playa Azul private beach.

Cholon is situated just opposite (this is the party place on weekends) and if that's where you would prefer to go, they will usually be able to take you there instead.

139

Isla Múcura - Sucre

Image Credit: https://www.expedia.ca/Isla-Mucura.dx6130266

It is pitch black when we jump into what turns out to be surprisingly warm water. And then the spectacle starts. With every swish of our arms and legs, the water fractures into a hundred tiny lightbulbs. The plankton glow white around us, like fairy lights brightening the darkest of waters.

To travel to Isla Múcura, take a boat from Cartagena, Tolú or Rincón del Mar. The boat leaves from the dock Bodeguita in Cartagena and from the Tolú port daily at 08.30, weather permitting. From Rincón del Mar there is no fixed schedule. Your lodge will be able to advise on boat transport from all three departure locations.

If you go, stay at the Dahlandia Lodge, in one of the cabins overlooking the water.

Alternatively, there is also a hostel and a more resort-type hotel on the island.

140

Punta Gallinas - Guajira

Image Credit: https://unusualplaces.org/punta-gallinas-a-magical-place-where-sea-meetssand-at-the-northernmost-tip-of-south-america/

The desert is actually home to two stops on this trip: Cabo de la Vela, which is closest to the nearest big city, and Punta Gallinas, which is much further out in the desert.

Depending on your adventure level and the time you have to explore, you can choose to go to both or just one. While there’s not much to do in La Guajira, the beaches, sunsets and starry nights make it well worth the trip.

Rioacha is the capital of the department of La Guajira and is very accessible by bus from the major cities of Santa Marta, Parque Tayrona or Palomino. Once you’re in Rioacha you can walk along the beachfront and you will see more than a handful of tour groups and individual guides willing to take you to Cabo de la Vela and Punta Gallinas.

141

Cabo Tiburón - Chocó

Image Credit: https://www.destimap.com/index.php?act=attraction&a=Cabo-Tiburon%2CSapzurro%2C-Colombia

If El Aguacate and Playa Soledad weren’t quite as isolated as you’d hoped, then head to Cabo Tiburón. Just a short jungle hike from Sapzurro but another world away, few make it to this beautiful stretch of sand; making it the ultimate Robinson Crusoe escape.

The two beautifully wild (and most likely empty) beaches here also mark the border between Colombia and Panama, so take your passport just in case. Also note, there isn’t much here, so bring everything you’ll need for the day, including water and snacks.

142

Bahía Solano - Chocó

Image Credit: https://lulocolombia.travel/destinations/bahia-solano/

On the Pacific coast it is possible to surf, snorkel, dive, watch dolphins, turtles, a variety of flora and fauna and humpback whales.. Tourists interested in this area can also visit Bahia Solano, Nuqui, Utria National Park and the typical lodges, Ecolodge El Catil and Morromico. Choco has unique ecosystems and It is a perfect place to relax and live peacefully.

BY AIR: You can arrive at the José Celestino Mutis de Bahia Solano airport. The nickname of the airport is “Sal si Puedes” (get out if you can) due to the heavy rainfall that hinders take-offs. (It is advisable not to plan connections on the day of departure).

BY BOAT: From Nuqui, count 1h30 for the beach of El Valle (70.000 pesos) or 2h for Bahia solano (80.000 pesos). Only on Mondays and Fridays 143

Archipiélago de San Bernardo - Bolívar/Sucre

Image Credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/hotelpuntafaro/4420707700

Meet the most iconic marine life paradise in Colombia, the El Rosario, and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park. On the Caribbean coast of Colombia close to the coastal areas of the provinces of Bolívar and Sucre, and part of the jurisdiction of Cartagena, you will find the archipelago of El Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park.

Going From Cartagena: When you arrive at Rafael Nuñez International Airport (CTG) take approximately 15 minutes to ride to the “La Bodeguita” dock (8 km).

Going From Santiago de Tolú: Take a 50 minutes flight from Bogotá to Las Brujas Airport (CTG) at Sincelejo city. From Sincelejo take an approximately 45 minutes ride to Santiago de Tolú (40 km).

144

Rincón del Mar - Sucre

Image Credit: https://www.alongdustyroads.com/posts/rincon-del-mar-colombia

Understandably, a growing number of backpackers are learning of Rincón and its beaches. Despite its relative obscurity as Colombia becomes more and more popular to two-weekers, Rincón del Mar is no secret place. But travelling here still means making a decision - a decision to go westward along the coast and down a potholed dusty road toward the sea, rather than venturing east and to the more popular and better known destinations of Tayrona and Palomino.

You can easily arrange a day trip boat tour or transport to the San Bernardo Islands in RDM - unfortunately we don't know the prices or have any recommendations on who to use, so let us know in the comments if you do it! Alternatively, you can visit these islands from Cartagena.

145

Playas del parque Tayrona - Magdalena

Image Credit: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/ShowUserReviews-g1600802-d315698-r598062790Parque_Nacional_Natural_Tayrona-Tayrona_National_Park_Santa_Marta_Municipality_M.html

Where earth’s highest coastal mountain range meets the Caribbean Sea Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona in northern Colombia is a protected area covering the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Situated in Magdalena Department on the Caribbean coast, this national park is known for its beautiful beaches, rainforest and rich biodiversity. After our amazing Colombian Safari in Los Llanos, JJ and I flew to Santa Marta to begin the overland journey to Tayrona.

Local resort Ecohabs can arrange a taxi from Santa Marta airport, which was about a one hour journey. The resort is located very close to the national park’s main entrance, known as Zaino.

146

Dunas de Taroa - Guajira

Image Credit: https://www.kimkim.com/e/punta-gallinas-taroa-dunes

Despite its growing popularity on the traveler circuit over the past 15 years, Colombia is still home to a surprising number of wild, undeveloped beaches. On some of the most beautiful stretches, where you might expect to find one towering hotel block after another, you can walk for hours and find no such thing. How many popular tourist destinations have you visited where you can still see where the palm groves meet the sand? Colombia is a truly a breath of fresh air. Head even further north and you’ll find an entirely different landscape – arid desert, with orange cliffs rising above the sea. Here you can kitesurf in Cabo de la Vela, sleep in a traditional Wayuu chinchorro, and marvel at the Taroa Sand Dunes tumbling into the ocean.

147

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Top 15 Waterfalls/Bodies of Water 148

Cascada de los Caballeros – Santander Three-stage

waterfall

Los

Caballeros is the most impressive waterfall in the area. It is a thunderous

wall

of

water

that

tumbles off a spectacular 90m-high cliff. It is located about three kilometers from San José's urban center,

on

flat

terrain

that

is

uncovered. Getting there is a onehour drive on an unpaved road. As the road passes near the falls, there is no need to hike far.

Image Credit: https://www.viajarenverano.com/wp-content

Additionally, motorcycle taxis and cars provide transportation between the township and the waterfall lot. Every half-hour, a bus departs Vado Real for the Suaita transport terminal and charges $4,000 for the ticket. Every hour, double-cabin vans leave San José de Suaita in just under twenty minutes and for $3,000 each.

149

From Bogotá, a bus from the Omega company leaves directly to Suaita. If not, just get to Barbosa and from there travel to Vado Real and then to the other points. From Medellín, the same Omega company has a daily route to Barbosa. One of the main plans has to do with the observation of flora and fauna.

Interesting facts: 

The name of the waterfall derives from the Caballero family, who were the pioneers in agribusiness in the country.



In 1912 the fifth industry was born, which is that of textiles. The first in Santander and Colombia.



To get to the waterfall you must be careful with the rocks that are on the way. Do not forget to wear some grip shoes so that you are not going to have inconveniences on the way.

Image Credits: https://vivex.com.co/product/aventura-guadalupe-suaita-con-estadia/

150

Cascada Santa Rosa de Cabal - Risaralda

Image Credit: https://i0.wp.com/nomadicniko.com/wp-content

While Santa Rosa De Cabal hot springs are popular with locals. It is a natural hot spring that was first discovered around 80 years ago by a local family that lived in this area. In Termales Santa Rosa de Cabal, you can enjoy ecological walks in the Thermal Expedition in the middle of the mountains, wellness, and relaxation plans and feel all the elements of nature in San Miguel Thermal Spa with comforting rituals to be reborn. You will also connect with your gastronomic essence in our delicious restaurants with national and international preparations. Leaving Termales Santa Rosa can be difficult at night or when it’s crowded. It’s best to arrange a pick-up with a taxi or jeep before leaving. Waiting too long for the public bus is also a risk because they can fill up quickly and they don’t run after a certain time. You can do a lot of activities like bike tours, bird watching, trekking, canyoning, etc.

151

Las Gachas - Santander

Image Credit: https://cdn.baquianos.com/

Las Gachas is made out of rock formations that leave spectacular holes/craters where crystalline water runs through. Being without a doubt a great work of nature, it is located 1460 meters above sea level and has a temperature that ranges around 30 degrees Celsius. Quebrada Las Gachas is a must-see tourist attraction in Santander. These are hundreds of pools formed over millions of years, in a large ravine that gives it the appearance of natural hot tubs, and as if that were not enough in the background a beautiful red color can be seen, because the stones took this aspect due to various natural phenomena, this is why it is called the Caño Cristales de Santander. Quebrada Las Gachas is located in the municipality of Guadalupe , about 172 kilometers from Bucaramanga.

152

To reach this destination you have several options. You can take a direct bus from Bucaramanga to Guadalupe that has an approximate value of 35,000 COP and takes about five hours. The biggest drawback with this option is that the departure frequency of this route is very low and with very fixed schedules. The other more flexible option is to take a bus from Bucaramanga to the municipality of Oiba, which is very close to Guadalupe and has many more departures during the day. From Bucaramanga the ticket costs 25,000 COP and lasts for three hours. Las Gachas river is around 45 minutes walk from Guadalupe, and you can take a guide to explore some of the areas around, or just get a map and be on your way. In the rainy season, hiking boots come in handy as parts of the path are muddy.

Image Credits: https://chipviajero.com/wp-content/

153

Caño Cristales - Meta

Image Credit: https://www.colombiatouristattractions.com/wp-content

On a sunny day, the green, purple, red, yellow and blue colors of Caño Cristales will appear in your sight when you arrive at this paradisiacal site. The wonderful attraction of this river is that at the bottom there are plants that change color with the sun exposure, making the river a spectacle out of the ordinary for tourists. La Macarena, which used to be known for its coca crops, is now known for the ecological charm of Caño Cristales. To reach Caño Cristales it is advisable to do so by air, as overland travel is very complex as the roads are unpaved and transport services do not operate every day, so the best option is to take a plane to the municipality of La Macarena and then take a 20-minute trip down the Guayabero River. After crossing the river, you will have to walk for almost two hours until you reach Caño Cristales.

154

La Piscina del Aguila is one of the best places to go for a dip thanks to its diversity of aquatic fauna and flora. The Pozo Cuadrado is a natural square shaped pool, in these waters you can practice diving. In addition, the wall that surrounds this well is about 8 meters long and if you are daring enough, you can climb it. The Tablets of Moses (Las tablas de Moises) in these waters are rock formations that resemble the famous tablets of Moses’ commandments. In Los Ochos you will be able to appreciate rocky formations in the shape of eight that are flooded with crystalline waters. This part of the park is also home to the famous colorful aquatic plants. You can enjoy waterfalls, natural pools, white stones, carpet of aquatic plants and a peace in the environment that causes you to stay there.

Image Credit: https://www.colombiatouristattractions.com/wp-content

155

Salinas de Galerazamba - Bolívar

Image Credit: https://expotur-eco.com/wp-content/

Located in the Galerazamba district, Santa Catalina Bolívar and known as Colombia's Pink Sea. To travel from Cartagena, it takes 1 hour to arrive and from Barranquilla 1 hour and 15 minutes. In both cities you must go to the transport terminal and take a bus to Galerazamba. Its pink coloration is given by a natural phenomenon derived from the great concentration of saline in the waters. When the rain falls, the drops of water break the salt granules and create this phenomenon. The sea also has halophilic microalgae that produce beta carotene, creating environments of high salinity and luminosity. The bright pink color is only visible for two months out of the year in February and March when water levels are low causing a high concentration of microbes. Before deciding to go to this destination, you should contact the Bolívar Institute of Culture and Tourism, as Salinas de Galerazamba is a very careful and preserved site due to the exploitation of salt.

156

Cascada Nabugá - Chocó

Imagine Credit: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Helmuth-Arias/publication/338012615/figure/ fig4/AS:837445436309505@1576673959735/Waterfalls-in-Nabuga.jpg

After walking 15 minutes along a path in the middle of the jungle, where you can see butterflies of fascinating colors, exotic frogs and birds, the landscape opens up to deliver a magic waterfall approximately 36 meters high, a natural setting that provides fresh water. Starting from Bogotá to Bahía Solano will take a flight and from Bahía Solano you need a boat to the beach of Nabugá, it takes about 45 minutes. You can enjoy the walking in the jungle and swimming on the waterfall also. Bahía Solano has an wonderful sea also that you can enjoy snorkel and if you are in the period July to October you can enjoy the baleen view.

157

Raudal de Jirijirimo - Vaupés

Image Credit: https://www.elespectador.com/resizer/

A colorful waterfall located in the Vaupés, known as Jirijirimo, connects travelers with the ancestral wisdom of indigenous communities. It is located on the Apaporis River, which rises near the town of San Vicente del Caguán, called the Tunia or Macaya River there. It is a white water river. The landscape in the middle of the Amazon jungle reveals the beautiful waterfalls becoming the Jirijirimo stream, which is later divided into two parts forming a new waterfall called "La Cama de la Anaconda" because of its shape, in addition to the fact that a great variety of snakes live there It has a warm and humid climate and the best time of the year to visit this place is in January and December.

158

To get there, a tour of the Vaupés River begins, during which you will find an island in the shape of a heart and several falls of 100 and 200 mt. Further on, the river slides down a multicolored waterfall to later cross a canyon, at the end of which the traveler will be immersed in a grandiose tunnel in which the Jirijirimo stream forms. This place is sacred for the indigenous people of the region, and they are the ones who approve or not the entry.

Image Credit: https://www.colombiatouristattractions.com/wp-content

159

Cascadas De Payande - Tolima

Ibagué, known as the musical capital

of

Colombia,

has

the

privilege of having six waterfalls with crystal clear and relaxing waters just a few kilometers away.

In this place, natural wells and waterfalls are formed that offer an unprecedented spectacle. It is a perfect it for people that likes extreme sports such as rappelling, canyoning, torrentism, etc.

Image Credit: https://www.facebook.com/SoyTolimense13

The entrance to the Payandé Waterfalls has a cost of 3,000 COP (1 USD) and you can bathe and enjoy wonderful waterfalls of crystal clear and refreshing water. From Bogotá you can take a bus to Ibagué. Once you are in Ibagué, you can take a fleet to the municipality of San Luis and, then, a transport to the district of Payandé and to reach Cascadas De Payande you must walk five kilometers on an unpaved road.

160

Rio Claro - Antioquia

Image Credit: https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowUserReviews-g297478-d3176813-r131604607Rio_Claro_Valley-Medellin_Antioquia_Department.html

Rio Claro Natural Reserve is located on the highway between Medellin and Bogota and is one of Colombia’s best ecolodges in the department of Antioquia in the central mountain range3 hours from Medellín and 10 hours from Bogotá (542 kilometers).

All the water used at Rio Claro is from natural springs (and isn’t drinkable), but there’s no hot water in the taps and showers. Wi-Fi coverage is limited, there are no ATMs nearby and you have to book activities in advance such as rafting, caving, ziplining, and tubing.

161

Cascada del fin del mundo - Putumayo

Image Credit: https://i.pinimg.com

The End of the World Reserve (Fin del Mundo Reserve) is one of the most peaceful and charming places you can find in Colombian territory. It has two waterfalls with crystal clear waters and a diversity of fauna and flora. Fin del Mundo Natural Reserve is located in the department of Putumayo, in the municipality of Villagarzón. To get to the Fin del Mundo natural reserve from Bogotá, you must take a bus from the transportation terminal to Mocoa for about 15 hours.In Mocoa you must take a bus to Villagarzón, it takes only 15 minutes more. Some activities you can do in Fin del Mundo Reserve is birdwatching, torrenting, and rappelling. You can visit the Hornoyaco waterfall, 55 meters high, and is allowed also to swim.

162

Salto de Bordones - Huila

Image Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki

This imposing waterfall is located in the Puracé National Natural Park in Huila. What makes this waterfall special is the fact that Salto de Bordones is the country’s longest uninterrupted waterfall, free-falling for more than 400 meters. To get to this wonderful tourist site you must go to Pitalito, Huila, in the transport terminal of Pitalito you can take a shuttle service that will take you to Bordones, that takes about an hour. From the main square of Bordones, you must walk at least 10 minutes to get to the waterfall.

163

Laguna de Tota - Boyacá

Image Credit: https://viajandonoselmundo.com/videos/playa-blanca-laguna-de-tota-en-boyaca-quehacer-y-precios

Tota Lake also named Playa Blanca is located in the department of Boyacá, 15 km from Sogamoso and close to the towns of Cuitiva, Tota and Aquitania. It is the largest lake in Colombia and its beaches are of white sand and the clear water. The name Tota comes from the Chibcha language of the Muisca and its main name refers to "Astronomic Observatory", relating to its sacred uses for that culture. The activities are windsail, hike, trout fishing, camping, cycling. An interesting fact is that the area around Lake Tota is one of the major onion producing regions of Colombia. Is a great place to visit with the friends, family or couple.

164

Embalse Amaní - Caldas

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Without a doubt, the Amaní reservoir, located in Norcasia in the department of Caldas, is one of the tourist treasures that you should know; its natural wealth and connection with wildlife and nature attract tourists from all corners to this paradise. Its crystalline waters due to the river honey and river manso were in charge of filling the amaní reservoir, named in honor of the amaníes indigenous people who inhabited the territories and lands of Norcasia in the past.

Thanks to the water wealth that the Amaní reservoir possesses, it has become an ecological tourist attraction, where you can do activities such as sport fishing, enjoy waterfalls with crystal clear waters, visit the Pantagoras dam and take a tour on the echo pontoon. cheerful country hotel.

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You can also enjoy bird watching, visit the petroglyphs, practice diving, and going down the La Miel River towards its mouth in the Magdalena, you can do body rafting and tubing. Activities such as boat rides, bird watching, visits to petroglyphs, diving, and going down the La Miel River to its mouth in the Magdalena, you can do body rafting and tubing. However, sport fishing has gained strength as the star activity of Norcasia tourism.

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166

Traquinlandia - Guaviare

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One of the most popular tourist attractions in San José del Guaviare is this magical river. Similar to 5-coloured river Caño Cristales – this river is just as breathtaking but much less touristy and expensive. The color phenomenon is produced by the growth of freshwater algae named Macarenia clavigera. This marvelous plant, exclusively found in Colombia, only grows between June and December.

Route to get to San Jose de

Guaviare starting from Bogota we have a route of approximately 7 hours in a journey of about 400 Kms. Tranquilandia is just 15 minutes from San José del Guaviare, on the road that leads to Villavicencio. If you are interested in nightlife San José has some interesting bars, taverns, and discos dancing rumba and having fun.

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Caño Canoas - Meta The Caño Canoas waterfall is about 70 meters high and is located in the department of Meta.

The Serranía de la Macarena is one of the most beautiful nature reserves in the country. The place looks

like

solemnity,

a

temple,

beauty

and

where infinity

officiate. Is interesting to observe fauna, flora and get to know the Image Credit: https://pbs.twimg.com/media/

communities of the region.

To see this magic place from Bogotá you can take a bus to Neiva. This ticket has a value between $46,000 and $52,000 COP (14-17 USD). From Neiva you have to get to the municipality of San Vicente del Caguán through a road that is not paved. The other way to get to La Macarena by land is to travel from Villavicencio to San José del Guaviare. From there you have to take the route to the municipality of La Macarena in an approximate journey of 9 to 10 hours. In order to explore the region, you must be vaccinated against yellow fever and tetanus. The internet is an issue during the period of staying on so a GPS would be a great solution.

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Top 15 Fruits 169

Mangostino

Mangostino is also known as the queen of the fruit after Queen Victoria, the 19th-century English monarch that loved this fruit taste.

According

to

legend,

Queen

Victoria would offer a hundredImage Credit: https://colombiatravelreporter.com/

pound reward to anyone who could bring her fresh mangostino fruit.

A fruit with soft purple skin with sweet tangy flavor and with hints of lychee, banana, or peach. One of the most potent antioxidants found in nature lies within this fruit, and it promotes significant benefits, which include antioxidant effects, cardiovascular benefits, anti-inflammatory effects, and antibiotic benefits. This fruit was once banned from US but not anymore although the imports must be irradiated. The reason behind this story is because of fear of introducing the Asian fruit fly in US. It can be used on juices, smoothies, sweets or eaten raw.

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Guayaba Agria

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It is a small tree that can reach up to 10m. The pulp of Sour Guava is rich in vitamin C and citric acid, with vitamin A and B. The true importance of the species is that, due to its resistance to nematodes, it is an excellent rootstock for grafting commercial varieties of guava. It is used to prepare soft drinks. The pulp of the fruit is said to have a tart, strawberry-like taste and they make good fruit preserves.

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Uchuva

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Uchuvas are small fruits and yellow color and are also known as cape gooseberries or golden berries. Uchuvas are at their best when you prepare a juice or stewed with honey. This exotic fruit contains a vital source of Vitamin A, B and C, and also phosphorus, it’s flavor will give a boost to your daily morning orange juice. Did you know that It’s called fruta del amor (love fruit) in Peru? Although uchuvas are originally from Peru, Colombia exports a lot of these fruits.

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Maracuyá

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Maracuyá is better known as passion fruit. It is usually yellow or purple in color and native to tropical America. This fruit is the country’s favourite passionfruit, a wrinkly, oval variety most commonly consumed in juices or made into a deliciously tart ice-cream.

Spanish missionaries named the vine “passion flower” because its huge white flowers, with their purple centers, reminded them of Christ’s Crucifixion. Maracuyá is best in juices and smoothies and makes for a delicious ice-cream flavor and is a fruit that you should definitively try.

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Granadilla

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Granadillas, known as sugar fruit, are small to medium fruits and have an elongated, oblong to oval shape with a hollow, lightweight feel. The rind is smooth, firm, and thick, initially green when young, darkening to an orange-yellow hue with maturity. The pulp is aqueous, slippery, and aromatic, while the seeds provide a crunchy consistency.

Granadillas have a bright, sweet, tangy, fruity flavor with tropical and floral undertones.

Granadilla is known by many names and spellings, including Sugar fruit, Sweet Granadilla, Granadia, Grandilla, and Granada China.

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Tomate de árbol

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Tomate de arbol are red, small, oval to egg-shaped fruits with pointed ends. The skin is smooth, glossy, taut, and thin, ripening from orange-gold to a muted, red-brown when mature. Underneath the surface, the flesh is semi-firm, orange, and succulent with an aqueous consistency. There are also two chambers filled with soft pulp encasing many thin, circular, and edible black. The skin frequently contains a bitter, tannin forward flavor and is often discarded before eating, considered to be unpalatable. The red fruits are more acidic, the yellow and orange ones are sweeter. In taste this fruit can be compared to kiwi, tomato, guava or passion fruit. The texture is firm and contains larger seeds than those of the common tomato.

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Gulupa

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The Gulupa, also known as the passion fruit, belongs to the passionflower family. The shell is smooth, thick and dark purple. The pulp is yellow and juicy with edible seeds.

The flavour is unique; it is acid and mildly sweet and has a very pleasant aroma. Its skin is tough with a range of colors from green, purple, brown or red, according to its degree of maturity. The Gulupa is also used to prepare salads, juices, sauces, ice cream and soup.

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Mamoncillo

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Tangy and tropical, known also as Spanish limes. The thin skin is smooth, tough, and leathery with the occasional protrusion opposite the stem end. The flesh is referred to as the “aril” and can range in color from salmon-orange to pale yellow. Biting or peeling into the fruit will reveal a delicious surprise. When mamoncillo is ripe, the pulp is sweetly acidic and can be compared to a cross between lime and lychee. Peeled mamoncillo can be added to equal parts sugar and water and simmered to make a simple syrup used for desserts and drinks. They are extremely rich in iron and phosphorus. Pay attention since the seed, being slippery, is a potential choking hazard.

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Guama

It is also known as Inga fruit, guaba and Ice cream Bean. Its long bean-shaped pods hold a wonderful

mouth-watering

pulp

inside. The pulp is eaten raw, and the seeds are spat out. The tree has white pulp inside the bean pods, which tastes sweet and is often likened to the flavor of vanilla ice cream. In your experience in Colombia remember than when you will taste this fruit the seeds should not be eaten.

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178

Guanabana

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The soursop is a large strange-looking green fruit, with prickly spines covering its skin and Guanabana fruit also known as unknown fruit. The edible part is a white pulp with a slightly sweet flavor and is commonly used to prepare smoothies and desserts. The taste of the fruit is combination of apple, pineapple, and banana. If you're curious to try fresh soursop, look for it in markets. A ripe soursop is light yellowish-green in color and fruits range in size from "large mango" to "your whole head."

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Lulo

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Lulo is a tangy, citrus-like fruit. Colombia is lucky to grow lulo because it is a notoriously fragile fruit. Lulo is known in these regions as the nectar of the Incan gods and also known as naranjilla (little orange). It is one of Colombia’s favorite fruits for juices. A brown, hairy coat protects the fruit until it is fully ripe, when the hairs can be easily rubbed off, showing the bright-orange, smooth, leathery, fairly thick peel. The fruit pulp is filled with translucent green or yellowish, very juicy, slightly acid to acid, pulp of delicious flavor which has been likened to pineapple-and-lemon.

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Zapote

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The Zapote is a small fruit, roughly one to three inches in diameter with a smooth brown exterior. The rind is tough but when peeled away reveals a vibrant orange flesh. It tastes somewhat like a fig, in terms of sweetness and an avocado, in terms of texture.

The Zapote has anywhere from two to five hard, black seeds in the center of the fruit.

Zapote is known also as the Sapodilla in America, Chico Zapote in Central America, the Dilly in Great Britain, and the Chicle in Mexico.

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Feijoa

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Common names include feijoa pineapple guava and guavasteen, although it is not true guava. The Fiejoas was named after Brazilian botanist, Don da Silva Feijo.

Feijoas fruits are ellipsoid-shaped, similar to an egg. The color and texture of the skin both resemble that of lime. The fruit has distinctive aromatics both sweet and tart and suggestive of its tropical flavors. The flesh is dense, grainy, and creamy, similar to the flesh of a ripe pear. The flesh contains a jelly-like seed cavity. Its flavors are a mélange of quince, pineapple, banana, mint, and sweet grapes. The entire fruit is edible.

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Níspero

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The loquat or medlar fruit, nispero in Colombia, is another exotic fruit. Also called Japanese plum, is a yellow fruit that grows in clusters of the tree that receives the same name and that belongs to the botanical family of Rosaceae, like other fruits such as pear, plum, cherries, or apple. Nispero can be eaten raw and it makes for an excellent juice or smoothie.

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Curuba

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Curuba is sometimes known as the “banana passionfruit” because of its yellow pulp with black seeds. The fruits are long and look like a banana with rounded ends. It’s like a juicy kiwi but the interior is more like a papaya. A single vine of curuba can grow up to 300 fruits. It has a flavor similar to maracuya and in Colombia you can taste it also prepared with milk and sugar. Curuba is usually eaten raw but it’s also delicious as a pie filling.

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Top 15 Colonial Towns 185

Barichara - Santander

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Through its whitewashed buildings, red-tiled roofs, and cobblestone alleys, the little hamlet of Barichara in Colombia's Santander department is renowned as "the most beautiful village in Colombia."Barichara has a distinct advantage over many of the other towns listed in that it is nearly perfect: the entire town is only about 10 blocks square, and every single street retains the lovely old colonial architecture that has made Barichara such a popular destination for Colombian and international tourists for decades. You can go down any street in town and be treated to a view that seems like it came right out of a love movie. Most attractive towns in Colombia have a lovely historical centre surrounded by ordinary neighborhoods But Barichara is one giant postcard beauty.

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Barichara's remarkable

architecture,

which

dates

to

1705,

has

been

so

beautifully preserved over the years that it appears almost as new as it would have done more than 300 years ago, and it's easy to picture yourself in a different century as you explore its cobblestone pathways. The village may be incredibly silent at night, which somehow adds to the appeal and the sensation that you're visiting a time capsule.​ It's simple

to

get

to Barichara:

a

45-minute

bus

ride

from

San

Gil,

the

popular adventure sports city. Many visitors come for the day, but it's well worth staying for a night or two to appreciate the experience of meandering through the old streets at night, taking in the warm glow of the streetlamps on the white buildings and the shadows of the uneven cobblestones that have been laying there for centuries.

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Girón - Santander

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San Juan Girón, sometimes known as Girón, is a municipality in the Santander department in Colombia, located in the Bucaramanga Metropolitan Area in the northwestern portion of the country. The town is known on a national level for its historic center, which is marked by Spanish colonial architecture. Girón was founded in 1631 as a municipality. In 1959, was designated as a National Monument of Colombia for his colonial architecture, a designation that was later formalized in 1963. It is a member of Colombia's Heritage Pueblos Network.

The first of three attempts to build the current city of Girón began with the first denomination given to the project, which was San Juan Bautista de Borja de Girón, on January 15, 1631.

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With military experience from his campaigns against the Yargees and Carires, he signed capitulations in front of the Real Audiencia promising to clear the Ribera's of the Sugimoto and Lebrija rivers of indigos assailants in exchange for permission to establish a city in which he could exercise the title of governor. The construction of Mantilla de loss Ros began right away in Zapa manga; nevertheless, the town was built within the confines of the fort.​ Girón is located 5.5 miles south of Bucaramanga and is part of the Tourist Network of Colombian Heritage Towns. The "white city" is included in this list because of its wellpreserved colonial district. Visitors may wander down 46 blocks of cobblestone streets and observe 16th, 17th, and 18th century mansions as they go back in time.​

https://baquianos.com/en/blog/girn-how-to-get-there-what-to-do-and-what-to-see-in-this-beautifultown-of-santander

189

Salento - Quindío

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Salento is a Colombian town located west of Bogotá in the Andes Mountains. It's noted for its lush surroundings and coffee plantations. The Valle del Cocora, to the east, is home to endangered parrots and has high wax palm trees, which are a national emblem. To the northeast, the village serves as a gateway to Los Nevados National Natural Park's snow-capped peaks. Colorful structures and specialty stores along Calle Real in Salento. Just northeast of town lies El Mirador, a viewpoint.

Salento is a small town in Colombia's central department of Quindío. The high - quality coffee made there and the beautiful Cocora Valley draws tourists to this somewhat remote location. A visit here could be a short walk in the fields to view the Wax Palms, a horse ride along some trails, or a circuit hike up the hill to a viewpoint.

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It is very easy to get to the Valle de Cocora from Salento. Every day at the central plaza several different jeep-style 4-wheel drives wait to drive tourists to the Valle de Cocora. The jeeps wait until they are full and then make the 30-minute trip to the entrance of the Valle de Cocora.

This area is known as the 'Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia,' according to UNESCO. It's a popular tourist site as well as a favorite holiday spot for Colombians and there are several different plantations around Salento that offer coffee tours.

Around Salento, there are some amazing waterfalls you can explore. One of the most popular is called Santa Rita. Here you can go swimming or just enjoy its beauty!

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Santa Cruz de Mompox - Bolívar

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Santa Cruz de Mompox, often known as Mompox, is a town and municipality in northern Colombia's Bolívar Department. The town built up around the Magdalena River and has kept much of its colonial charm.

Mompox, which was founded on the banks of the Magdalena River in 1540, was an important part of the Spanish colonization of northern South America. The city grew beside the river from the 16th to the 19th centuries, with the main thoroughfare serving as a dike. The cityscape's harmony and coherence have been preserved in the historic center. Most of the structures are still in use for their original purposes, affording a unique glimpse into what life was like in a Spanish colonial city.

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It takes approximately 9 hours to get from Cartagena to Mompox, even though they’re in the same department, although the beautiful views that this tour has make it worthwhile.

This region is also known for its wooden rocking chairs, which locals bring out onto the streets in the evenings to watch the world go by, as well as filigree silver and gold work sold along Calle Real del Medio, and Vinimompox, which are fruit wines created from banana, guava, orange, and tamarind.

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193

Guatapé - Antioquia

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Guatapé is a small Colombian town in the department of Antioquia that every tourist should visit. It is regarded as one of the country's most vibrant and attractive cities. If you’re headed to Medellin, then a short trip to Guatapé is a must.

Guatapé was established on October 4th, 1811 and has changed politically and economically over time. It was formerly an agricultural town, with agriculture and mining being the mainstays of the economy. In 1970, Guatapé saw the construction of a major hydroelectric plant, which aided the village's development and provided breathtaking views.

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Climb the 740 steps of The Rock Guatapé or El Peñol, which is the second-largest monolithic rock in South America. It is just massive and stands over 650 feet (200 meters) high offering incredible views of the area from the top.

The Guatapé Lake, which comprises roughly 2,262 hectares, are the most frequented attractions in this area. A visit to this town is a must because of its colorful buildings and lovely main plaza.

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Villa de Leyva - Boyacá

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Villa de Leyva is a village northeast of Bogotá, Colombia. It's famed for its whitewashed colonial houses, cobblestone streets, and the massive Plaza Mayor. You can visit Antonio Nariño House Museum, that is in the southwest of the square.

In Villa de Leyva, a community in Boyacá that preserves elements of its colonial history in its architecture, time appears to have stood still. This town is without a doubt one of Colombia's most attractive. With over 150,000 square feet, the Plaza Mayor in Villa de Leyva is the largest in Colombia and one of the most spectacular in South America. Villa de Leyva is the ideal destination for history, science, and the arts, thanks to its diverse range of events.

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Some of the activities are: Visit the Pozos Azules: Just five minutes from Villa de Leyva you can see a series of artificial pools which, because of natural salts and minerals in the soil around them, have taken on a remarkable blue color. The Terracotta House: This bizarre tourist attraction is essentially a 500 m² house made entirely of clay.

It has been called the largest piece of pottery in the world and what makes it even more interesting is that it’s an entirely livable house, complete with a working kitchen, bathrooms and several bedrooms.

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Guatavita (Cundinamarca)

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Guatavita is a Colombian municipality and town in the Guavio Province of the Cundinamarca Department. Guatavita is 75 kilometres northeast of Bogotá.

One of the most important attractions of the town is to go to the sacred lake of Guatavita that represents the sacred legend of El Dorado which means a lost city of gold, a mythical place adorned with great treasures by the Indians (Muiscas).

The lagoon is located 20 km from town, and to get to the top you will have to walk 15 minutes, where you will enjoy the beautiful beauty of the lagoon, its magnificent views and perhaps discover a piece of gold while walking.

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La Aldea Doradal - Antioquia

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On the roadway that connects both cities, four hours from Bogotá and three hours from Medellín, is a magical destination: La Aldea Doradal, located in the department of Antioquia, a little community ingeniously carved into a mountainside.

The town has a bohemian vibe to it, with whitewashed cottages, blue window frames, and cobblestone lanes, evoking the mood of a Greek Cyclades Island. The settlement has been dubbed 'Colombia's Santorini.' The architecture of La Aldea was primarily influenced by the Greek island of Santorini, which is located over 10,000 kilometers away.

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Just one kilometer away, you will find the Hacienda Nápoles (Former property of Escobar), which was converted into a theme park, where you will find a zoo with animals that were owned by Escobar and water attractions.

If you want something more natural, 19 km away is the Rio Claro Canyon Nature Reserve, where you can do activities, such as rafting, biking, bird watching and hiking.

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200

Salamina - Caldas

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Salamina is a municipality in Colombia's Caldas department, about two hours from Manizales. It was designated as a national monument and a piece of human history.

Fermin Lopez, Francisco Marulanda, and other Salamina residents created the town in 1825. Caldas produced numerous poets, singers, actors, and authors in Salamina, which is renowned as the "city of light." It is also known as the "Mother of Nations" since it served as a meeting point for the founders and initial immigrants of Neira, Aranzazu, Manizales, Santa Rosa de Cabal, Pereira, and Armenia, among others. These are some of the activities that can be done: La Samaria Wax Palm Forest. Immaculate Conception Church. Historical Center. San Felix Church. Casa Carola National Conservation House.

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Villa del Rosario - Norte de Santander

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Villa del Rosario is a municipality and town in Colombia's North Santander department, in the eastern region of the country. Only 9 Km. from Cúcuta, is located this place of great historical interest with places that keep a great relationship with the heroes of the country.

Summers at Villa del Rosario are brief, hot, humid, and gloomy, while winters are lengthy, hot, oppressive, and mainly cloudy. The temperature normally ranges from 21 °C to 33 °C throughout the year, with temperatures seldom falling below 20 °C or rising over 35 °C. Early June to early September, and mid-December to mid-March, are the best times of year to visit Villa del Rosario for hot-weather activities, according to the beach/pool score.

202

Ráquira - Boyacá

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Ráquira is a municipality and town in Colombia's Boyacá Department, one hour away from Tunja. The Muisca lived in the Ráquira region for centuries before the Spanish conquered the Colombian Andes' central highlands. Because of the clay in the area, Ráquira was known for its pottery even back then.

In Colombia, Ráquira is known for its artisan community, which creates traditional northern Andean ceramics and hand-woven products. A popular time to visit is on Sundays. Ráquira is also notable for its brightly colored residences.

You can visit the Patio de brujas, an astronomical observatory where activities related to this field of knowledge take place. It is also advisable to visit Sutamarchán, another incredible town in Boyacá, only 19 minutes from Ráquira.

203

Jardín - Antioquia

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Jardín is a town and municipality in Antioquia, Colombia, frequently mistakenly referred to as El Jardín. To the north, it is bordered by the municipalities of Andes, Jericó, and Támesis, and to the south, the department of Caldas.

Jardín is known for its well-preserved colonial buildings, beautiful foliage, and a plethora of rivers and streams.

The San Juan, Claro, and Dojurgo are just a few of the rivers that pass-through Jardín. A favourite meal in the region is trout fished in the nearby rivers. Temperatures are on average 19°C daily.

Jardín was recognized a Pueblo Patrimonio (heritage town) of Colombia by the Colombian government in 2012.

204

Villavieja - Huila

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Villavieja is a Colombian municipality located in the Huila department. It is located in the northwestern region of the department, in the upper Magdalena River Valley. Its territorial extent is 578 km2, and its average temperature is 28-31°C. Ecoturismo, as a contemplative, investigative, and scientific tourism mode that considers the natural beauty of the places visited, as well as their ethnologic and anthropologic quality, is based on Agropecuaria activity, with the agricultural sector dominating.

Villavieja is one of the most prominent tourist destinations in Huila's department because of its proximity to Neiva and the Tatacoa Desert (13 minutes by car).

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One of the country's most important dry tropical forest ecosystems is in most of its territory: the Desierto de la Tatacoa, which is designated as a tourist destination because the soil and subsoil are rich in paleontological history, and its geophysical and astronomical location allow for excellent visibility into the sidereal space. Furthermore, their flora and fauna have been forming unique characteristics alongside their soils, which, although being eroded in general, are essential for life development.

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206

Socorro - Santander

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Socorro is a municipality and town in northeastern Colombia's Santander Department.

José de Archila and José Daz Sarmiento formed the company in 1681.

El Socorro is considered one of Latin America's most historically significant cities. It was here that Colombia and other Latin American nations took their first steps toward freedom. Manuela Beltran tore apart a crucial document of the Spaniards in 1781, 38 years before Colombia's officially acknowledged independence.

El Socorro has been designated as a national historic site due to its historical significance. It's an interesting destination to visit since it features a variety of churches and chapels, as well as ancient unfinished government buildings and well-preserved colonial architecture.

207

Minca - Magdalena

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Minca is a tiny village in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia, about 20 kilometers from Santa Marta. It is located 580 meters above sea level, with a little milder climate than the coast, and is surrounded by a beautiful tropical forest, making it a popular tourist destination for those seeking a relaxing ambiance away from Santa Marta's hustle and bustle.

It's known for its organic coffee and is significantly colder than Santa Marta. The hamlet is attractive, and it has become a popular tourist and bird-watching destination in recent years. It usually draws travelers who want to get away from it all for a week or two and enjoy some peace and quiet.

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It's a fantastic starting point for hiking and mountain biking.

The Los Pinos Viewpoint is one of the best in Minca. For those wanting to go on a hike, the 3-hour return walk is a great option. The viewpoint overlooks the Sierra Nevada region, and you truly get a magnificent view from here.

The Pozo Azul is the most famous waterfall in Minca, followed by the Marinka waterfall. Both offer a refreshing sensation after the long hike to reach them.

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Typical Foods from the 6 Regions 210

Caribbean

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Cazuela de Mariscos: This thick, seafood stew is a staple of Colombian Caribbean cuisine. The Cazuela de Mariscos can also be found on the Pacific coast of Colombia, but is especially connected to the Caribbean cities of Cartagena, Barranquilla, and Santa Marta. A hearty mix of white fish, squid, shrimp, prawns, and lobster, all served up in a rich, creamy broth with a side of rice and fried plantains.

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Rondón: This Afro-Caribbean dish is traditional on the Colombian Caribbean islands of San Andres and Providencia. Rondon is a hearty soup made up of a fish fillet mixed with other seafood, as well as coconut milk, plantain, vegetables, peppers, and spices. Its name is actually an anglicized version of the words “run down,” and refers to the act of going down to search for the vegetables used in making this tasty dish.

And Coconut rice, Fried Fish, Suero costeño, Lobster, Rondon, Cocadas Blancas, and Arepa de Huevo.

Image Credit: https://queapetito.com/receta-arepas-huevo-colombianas/

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Pacific

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The crab soup: The crab is one of the most present species in the coasts and in the tables of the Colombian Pacific. Its availability makes it an element conducive to be part of many different dishes: from soups to grilled seafood or salads. In this case, crab soup is one of the most common appetizers or entrees in the region's cuisine. Just Crabs and some vegetables like tomato, garlic, parsley, pepper or onion, as well as oil and salt.

Dry-smooth fish cod: This is one of the most characteristic dishes of the region's cuisine. The dry-smooth cod is famous throughout the country and immediately evokes the Pacific. It is a dish in which the cod is crumbled once I cook, removed skin and bones. More food are the seafood casserole, The fish eaters and, Bread tree arepas.

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Orinoco

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Creole Pavilion: The Creole Pavilion is one of the traditional Orinoco dishes that you cannot miss. It consists of meat in megabytes, white rice, black beans, bananas and white cheese. It is an ideal dish to share in family gatherings.

Tatuco: This dish is recognized for its particular cooking technique where the heat of the fire is used to boil inside a hole made in the ground. The meat of a veal, and the chigüiro are special ingredients that give a special flavor not only to this dish, but in general to traditional llanera food.

Hallacas: These delicious wraps are made up of a dough stuffed with beef, pork, chicken, vegetables, raisins, nuts and capers; typically wrapped in a banana leaf tied with pita.

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Amazon

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Pirarucú: The Amazon diet is made up largely of fish. The most emblematic fish of the region is the Pirarucú, known for its large size (which reaches three meters long) and its scales.This product is one of the most sought after by tourists and people who visit the Amazonian region of Colombia. Pirarucú can be eaten prepared in multiple ways. One of the most common is chicharrón. It is thus, the fish is cut into pieces, pounded and fried.

It is usually accompanied with lemon, vinaigrette, yucca, banana and vegetables.

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Moqueado: The pissed is a food that is derived from the indigenous tradition of the region. To prepare this dish, take the fish and wrap it in banana leaves. Later it is placed on top of a bonfire for two hours, in this way the fish is cooked or run with the smoke that comes from the embers. Who cooks should fan the fire from time to time to avoid that the fat and juices that leave the fish extinguish the embers.

And Wrapped sheet, Purtumute, Winding, Mojojoy, Tacacho with Cecina, and Humitas.

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Andean

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Changua: This is a dish that you can not ignore, because it is a combination between water, milk, salt and egg, without a doubt the flavor is so delicious. There is a custom of adding bread into this mixture to soften the texture, however, it is optional according to the taste of each person.

Tamales: This delicious dish contains exquisite ingredients that you can not resist. It is the mixture between a rice dough and various types of meat such as: chicken, beef, pork, and some grains such as: peas, beans, lentils, and others. The presentation is unmistakable because the ingredients mixture are wrapped in a banana leaf.

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Caldo de costilla: This exquisite dish is known as «dead lifter», because exist a tradition that it is the best remedy for hangover. The dish can not miss at breakfast, and usually is accompanied by arepa or bread. The flavor is so attractive, can be defined as a typical element of Colombian cuisine.

And Bandeja paisa, and tamal.

Image Credit: https://www.196flavors.com/bandeja-paisa/

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Insular

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Rondón or Run down: It is the typical dish of the region par excellence. It is a kind of stew or soup that is cooked in a base of coconut milk. To this base are added fish, snails, yams, yucca, green bananas, pork cola and flour tortillas, and seasoned with different spices.

Crab balls or fish or fish: It is a very popular dish in the region. It is prepared with fish meat, crab or lobster. It is seasoned with eggs, breadcrumbs, different vegetables and spices. Then the small balls are made and fried in very hot oil.

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Coconut or coconut candy: Coconut is the most popular fruit of the region and is used in the preparation of different dishes, both sweet and salty. It is common to see in the streets of the islands to hawkers offering different types of sweets typical of the region made with coconut. Cocadas are a kind of cookies that are prepared with coconut pulp, coconut milk, sugar, butter and flour.

And Pumpkin or auyama, corn and banana cake.

Image Credit: https://www.mycolombianrecipes.com/rice-with-coconut-and-raisins-arrozcon-coco-y-pasas/

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Colombian Jungle 221

Ciudad Perdida - Magdalena

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The archaeological site of an old city in Colombia's Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is known as Ciudad Perdida (Spanish for "Lost City"). It was founded in 800 CE, almost 650 years before Machu Picchu. "Teyuna" and "Buritaca 200" are additional names for this place. Ciudad Perdida is made up of 169 mountainside terraces, a network of tiled roadways, and many tiny circular plazas. Only 1,200 stone stairs go up to the entryway, which is surrounded by impenetrable vegetation.

The indigenous people had already created advanced towns 1500 years before the Spaniards came, laying stone routes to ease the interchange of food and gold, stone, and clay items with other groups in the area. Ciudad Perdida, is a must-see for anybody visiting the country's Caribbean coast.

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Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de Chiribiquete - Guaviare

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Chiribiquete National Natural Park is Colombia's largest park and the world's largest tropical rainforest park. It was founded on September 21, 1989, and has since undergone two expansions, the first in August 2013 and the second in July 2018. The Serranía de Chiribiquete mountains and adjacent lowlands are covered with tropical wet forests, savannas, and rivers, and the park covers around 43,000 km2 (17,000 sq mi).

Chiribiquete National Natural Park has a tropical environment with an average annual rainfall of 4,500 mm. Because to the Serranía de Chiribiquete mountains' geographical location, the park gets a lot of cloud cover. The months of December and February get the least rainfall, while April and July have the most 223

Cerros de Mavecure - Guainía

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The Cerros de Mavecure are in Colombia's Guaina region, near the Venezuelan and Brazilian borders. Mount Parajito (712m), Monos (480m), and Mavecure (170m) are the three granite mountains that make up the Cerros. They may be accessed in two hours by swift boat through the Inirida River. The Orinoco, Atabapo, Inirida, and Guaviare rivers, all of which flow through the same location, create a "river star." It is possible to see beautiful and uncommon pink and grey dolphins when boating along these rivers.

Hiking up Colombia's mountains off the usual path, accompanied by a guide, to observe the spectacular panoramic views, is a great way to feel a strong connection to the country's roots.

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The Cerros de Mavecure are known for its rainforest, mountain, and plains landscapes. The wildlife and plants are very diverse due to the wide range of woods and savannahs. Bushes, plants, natural meadows, fruit trees, and the department's emblem, the Inrida flower, may all be found here. The department's economy is focused on agriculture, cattle, and fishing, with an average temperature of 27°C. Tuparro Park and Cerros de Mavecure are two off-the-beaten-path sites in Colombia that Adventure Colombia can take you to. These are excellent locations for fishing, climbing, or ecological hiking. You will be able to admire the ecosystems and sceneries of the area, as well as the grandeur of the Colombian Amazon and Orinoquia.

Image Credit: https://en.unesco.org/biosphere/lac/el-tuparro

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Amazon jungles - Amazonas

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The Amazon rainforest, also known as the Amazon jungle or Amazonia, is a wet evergreen tropical rainforest found in the Amazon biome, which occupies the majority of South America's Amazon basin. The rainforest covers 5,500,000 km2 (2,100,000 sq mi) of the basin's 7,000,000 km2 (2,700,000 sq mi). There are nine nations represented in this region, as well as 3,344 officially recognized indigenous entities. Brazil has 60 percent of the rainforest, followed by Peru with 13%, Colombia with 10%, and tiny quantities in Bolivia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, and Venezuela.

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With an estimated 390 billion individual trees separated into 16,000 species, the Amazon represents over half of the world's surviving rainforests and is the world's biggest and most biodiverse tropical rainforest.

Leticia, nicknamed "The Gateway to the Amazon" by locals, is bordered on all sides by dense primary forest, providing easy access to the Amazonian Basin through guided excursions and self-exploration. Leticia is situated into the far-flung south-eastern region of the country, only reachable by domestic aircraft from the capital city of Bogota. Often, sites that are this distant and lack standard tourist facilities have prohibitively exorbitant prices. However, while Colombia's tourism industry grew dramatically during the previous decade, the Amazon area did not. Leticia's costs have remained cheap as a result, while maintaining the little forest town's distinctively Colombian atmosphere.

Image Credit: https://www.iass-potsdam.de/en/blog/2020/07/market-pressures-and-amazon-firststeps-towards-brazilian-green-new-deal

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INDIA 228

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About India Image Credit: https://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/india_map.htm

Its capital is New Delhi, built in the 20th century just south of the historic hub of Old Delhi to serve as India’s administrative center. Its government is a constitutional republic that represents a highly diverse population consisting of thousands of ethnic groups and likely hundreds of languages. With roughly one-sixth of the world’s total population, India is the second-most populous country, after China. Its total population is 1,296,834,042 habitants.

Most of India forms a peninsula, which means it is surrounded by water on three sides. The world's highest mountain range, the Himalayas, rises in the north. The southeast is bordered by the Bay of Bengal, and the southwest is bordered by the Arabian Sea. India is the world's most populous democracy. A parliamentary republic with a multiparty system, it has eight recognized national parties, including the Indian National Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and more than 40 regional parties. The Congress is considered center-left in Indian political culture. India is a federal union comprising 28 states and 8 union territories.

India is a very spiritual country. It has no official religion, but more than 80 percent of Indians are Hindu. About 13 percent are Muslim. Other religions include Buddhism, Sikhism, and Jainism, which all began in India. For thousands of years, since the Hindu religion first evolved, respect for animal life has been an important part of Indians' beliefs. Cows are sacred and cannot be harmed. India's varied climate zones support about 65,000 animal species, including elephants, pythons, river dolphins, and rhinos, 230 and 12,000 types of flowering plants.

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Top 10 Cities to visit in India 231

Mumbai

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Mumbai, formerly Bombay and known also as the city of dreams, is a big city and you can do a lot of activities. Located on Maharashtra’s coast, Mumbai is India’s mostpopulous city, and it is one of the largest and most densely populated urban areas in the world. The most visited places are the Elephanta Caves, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, and the city's distinctive ensemble of Victorian and Art Deco buildings. This huge city is also known as the city that never sleeps. Mumbai is India's most cosmopolitan city, its financial powerhouse, and the nerve center of India's fashion industry.

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Some of the reasons there is worth visiting and why not live in Mumbai are: •

Mumbai is safer than other cities

•

A Hub for Art & Theater

•

All cultures live in harmony

•

An amazing view and beaches

•

A hub of opportunities

•

Shop anywhere and everywhere

Mumbai is famous for its monuments and iconic structure. They are 4 primary languages spoken Marathi, Hindi, English, and Gujarati. If you want to say hello then you can use the traditional way of saying Namaste. Pronounced “na-mah-stay,” this greeting is said while pressing your palms together in front of your chest and slightly bowing your head.

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Delhi

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Delhi, officially the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, is a city and a union territory of India containing New Delhi, the capital of India. According to legend, the city was named for Raja Dhilu, a king who reigned in the region in the 1 st-century BCE. Delhi is of great historical significance as an important commercial, transport, and cultural hub, as well as the political centre of India.

Old Delhi, a neighborhood dating to the 1600s, stands the imposing Mughal-era Red Fort and the sprawling Jama Masjid mosque, whose courtyard accommodates 25,000 people. Nearby is Chandni Chowk, a vibrant bazaar filled with food carts, sweets shops, and spice stalls. New Delhi: Delhi has featured in the list of the World's Best Cities for 2021 and is the only Indian city to rank among the 100 best cities across the world.

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Delhi, the national capital of India, has been placed at the 62nd position in this list of the world's best cities for 2021. There are some interesting facts according to Stanza Living blog: •

The Red Fort was Originally White

•

Tallest Minaret in the World

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Asia’s Largest Spice Market

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Asia’s Largest Wholesale Market for Fruit and Vegetables

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Unique museums

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Only Bahai Temple in Asia

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Most Expensive Office Space in India

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Delhi Metro Platforms are user Friendly for Blind People

•

Green City

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Delhi was Walled by 14 Gates

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Paradise For Bird Watchers

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Large Metro Network

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New Delhi was Planned by a British Architect

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Most Expensive Commonwealth Games

Image Credit https://img.static-kl.com/images •

•

Capital Since 1931 Humayun’s Tomb is the Inspiration behind the Taj Mahal 235

Bangalore

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Bengaluru, known as Bangalore, is the capital of India's southern Karnataka state. The center of India's high-tech industry, the city is also known for its parks and nightlife.

Former royal residences include 19th-century Bangalore Palace, modeled after England’s Windsor Castle, and Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, an 18th-century teak structure. With a population of more than 12 million, the city is well known for its temples, mosques, and churches. Furthermore, has gained the title of Silicon Valley of India due to the growing IT sector and startups. You don’t need to be worried if you don’t have the internet on your phone since Bangalore gives free access to Wi-Fi and the government pays for this service

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Kolkata

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Kolkata, formerly Calcutta, is the capital of India's West Bengal state. Founded as an East India Company trading post, it was India's capital under the British Raj from 1773– 1911. Kolkata is a city of colonial architecture, museums, art galleries, traditional food, temples, music, and theatre. It’s also home to Mother House, headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity, founded by Mother Teresa. The city is one of the cities with the lowest urban standard of living in the entire world. If you are wondering if Kolkata is safe then you need to know that Kolkata is considered the safest city in India for females, as well as one of the safest in the world. Science City is one of the top tourist places in Kolkata in the recent past. You can visit the center and explore its popular exhibits like The Aquatic World, the Jurassic World, and the Time Machine. Kolkata, often known as the 'City of Joy', hosts some of the most beautiful historic monuments of India and is known for its artistic nature.

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Ahmedabad

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Ahmedabad is the largest city in the state of Gujarat and is located in western India. The Sabarmati River runs through its center. Ahmedabad was known as the “Manchester of the East” for its textile industry. To visit this city, you should fly to Sardar Vallabbhai Patel International Airport. Ahmedabad is the place where the 'Father of the Nation', Mahatma Gandhi started India's freedom struggle. Ahmedabad is famous for many things, including brilliant restaurants, thrilling night markets, excellent museums, fascinating buildings, and nightlife. For a break from the humdrum of city life, natives of Ahmedabad make their way to the beautiful polygon-shaped Kankaria lake. There are also several food stalls, an illuminated musical fountain, kankaria zoo, a toy train, tethered balloon rides, a children’s park, and a myriad of water sports, for instance, jet skiing, zorbing, speed boat, etc.

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Panaji - Goa

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Panaji, also known as Panjim, is the state capital of Goa, in southwest India. Located on the banks of the Mandovi River, the city has cobblestone streets lined with colorful villas and buildings from the Portuguese colonial era. Palm-fringed Miramar Beach sits at the confluence of the river and the Arabian Sea. Set on a hill overlooking the city is the baroque Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church, built-in 1619.

Panaji remains the most famous tourist destination in Goa, in terms of beaches, churches, carnivals, and natural beauty. Being the capital city, it is the focal point of tourism in Goa. The town has some beautiful red-blue-green-yellow roofed buildings made in Portuguese Baroque style.

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Overlooking the mighty yet gently-flowing Mandovi River, Panjim is Goa’s capital as well as the heart. It is a unique concoction of idyllic charm and lively events, with cobblestone streets, Portuguese colonial-era buildings, and lush acacia and Gulmohar trees beckoning tourists from far and wide. From serene beaches and quaint churches to impressive forts, pretty temples and even museums, Panjim or Panaji has everything that your heart seeks on a vacation. So, take a look at the 25 best places to visit in Panjim, Goa, and start planning that perfect itinerary.

Some interesting places to visit are Dona Paula Beach, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Fort Aguada, Se Cathedral, Reis Magos Fort, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, Church of St. Augustine, Archaeological Museum of Goa, Odxel Beach, etc. The ideal time to spend visiting each of them would be at least 1 hour. You can reach these places by air, train or road.

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Srinagar

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Srinagar is the largest city and the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The city is known for its natural environment, gardens, waterfronts, and houseboats. The capital city of Srinagar is located 1585 meters above sea level. The city is famous for its gardens, lakes, and houseboats. It is also known for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and dried fruits.

The city is located on both sides of the Jhelum River, which is called Vyath in Kashmir. This is known as a safe city and there are also four liquor shops.

Some interesting places that are worthy to visit are Dal Lake, Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden, Sonamarg, Shankaracharya Hill, Nishat Garden, Nigeen Lake, Pari Mahal, etc.

They are a lot of activities to do like book a private sightseeing tour, gardens, hiking, visit sacred and religious sites, enjoy the view by air on helicopter and balloon.

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Pondicherry Often referred to as the ‘French Capital of India’, Pondicherry is a vibrant city located on the south-eastern coast of India. If you like water activities this city offers the possibility for scuba diving when you will see sea snakes, corals, moray eels, triggerfish, manta rays, lionfish, angelfish, parrotfish, kingfish, and other aquatic creatures in 40 meters depth or boating at Chunnambar Backwater. Also, you can enjoy the sunset on Ousteri Lake or explore the city by bike and visit the temples, churches, Pondicherry Museum,

and

botanical

garden.

To

communicate in the city language don’t forget that Pondicherry still has a community of French people living in the city and Image Credit https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons

French is also an official language.

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Cherrapunji

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Cherrapunjee, also known as Sohra, is a high-altitude town in the northeast Indian state of Meghalaya. This city is famous for its living root bridges, a result of bio-engineering practiced by the locals. The bridges can bear 50 people at a time and are spectacular to watch. It’s common in Cherrapunji to rain so be prepared for the almost every day rain caused by the summer air currents that sweep over the steaming flood plains of Bangladesh. Some of the places you should definitively visit are Double Decker Living Root Bridges, Nohkalikai Waterfalls, Mawsynram Village, Krem Mawmluh, Mawsmai Nongthymmai Eco Park, Wakaba Fall, Dainthlen Waterfall, Mawlynnong Village, etc. and you will need 2 to 3 days to explore the beautiful Cherrapunji. But if you are going with kids then you must explore places such as Mawsmai caves, Thangkharang park, Arwah caves, and Kynrem falls. To reach this city Guwahati is the nearest International Airport from Cherrapunji which is 181 km away from the hill station.

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Jaipur

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Jaipur is the capital of India’s Rajasthan state. It evokes the royal family that once ruled the region and that, in 1727, founded what is now called the Old City, or Pink City for its trademark building color. Jaipur is definitively worth visiting because is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of India. Jaipur has an impressively well-preserved 22mile wall surrounding the entire city that is the second-longest wall in the world after the Great Wall of China. The city is known for Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal, Amer Fort, Jantar Mantar, and several other places to visit, Jaipur has numerous stories to tell.

Two full days are good enough for Jaipur but if you want to do nearby villages like Sanganer or bagru or Samode you will need more time, maybe one day for each town or village.

The top activities you can do are visiting the elephant ride, Hike Up to Nahargarh Fort, enjoying a camel ride, cycling tour, visit a museum or historical places.

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Top 10 Historical Places & Monuments 245

Taj Mahal

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This beautiful monument made of ivory marble was built in 1632 by Emperor Shah Jahan for his late wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is located in the city of Agra beside the Yamuna River. Both are even buried within the building. It is one of the 7 wonders of the world making it a very popular tourist attraction, with sometimes visits up to 50,000 people a day. Some parts of the building have beautiful Islamic calligraphy written by Amanat Khan Shirazi. The architecture is a combination of Islamic, Indian, and Persian influences and makes it very different from many other structures in India. The brilliant white marble came in from Makrana in Rajasthan, the jade and crystal came from China, the jasper from Punjab, the turquoise from Tibet, the Lapis Lazuli from Afghanistan, the carnelian from Arabia, and the sapphires from Sri Lanka. It is said to cost 32 million rupees to build the Taj Mahal. In today’s currency that is approximately 1 billion dollars USD. It opens at 6 am and closes at 5 pm. It is also close to the Agra Fort if visitors want to see two monuments in 1 visit.

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Image Credit https://media.istockphoto.com/photos/taj-mahal-mosque-india-picture-id483752415? k=20&m=483752415&s=612x612&w=0&h=Nmk5zTnMUs-BDwWsiW8Zy5iWcDOsrTMABWQrUr9NAms= Taj Mahal Entry Gates

Taj Mahal Opening Hours

Western Gate (Main Gate)

An hour before sunrise and about 45 minutes prior to sunset

Eastern Gate

An hour before sunrise, and 45 minutes before sunset

Southern Gate

Only Exit

Nearest Airport

The Agra Airport

Nearest Metro Station

NA

Nearest Railway Station

Agra Cantt Railway Station

Nearest Bus Stand

The Idgah Bus Stand

Entry Fee (Indian)

INR 45 (Additional INR 200 to see the main mausoleum)

Entry Fee (SAARC and BIMSTEC)

INR 535 (Additional INR 200 to see the main mausoleum)

Entry Fee (Foreigner)

INR 1050 (Additional NR 200 to see the main mausoleum)

Entry Below (Children Below Age 15)

Free

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Red Fort

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Netaji Subhash Marg, Lal Qila, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi 110006 ​ Red Fort also known as Lal Qalʿah, also spelled Lal Kila or Lal Qila is a large 16 th -17th century fortress of red sandstone stands at 75 feet (23 metres) high and encloses a complex of palaces. halls, balconies, baths and indoor canals, and geometrical gardens, as well as a mosque. It also has white marble interior similar to the Taj Mahal on the inside as well. The architecture of this building was also by the same man who built the Taj Mahal, Emperor Shah Jahan. It is described as a walled city that is both a military base and a royal residence. The fort complex was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007.

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You can arrive at the destination via flight, train, or road.

Flight – Indira Gandhi International Airport is located in Palam a place 16km away from Delhi. You can take a taxi from here to the destination in about 20 mins.

Train – Metro trains also run in the city and the nearest metro station to the fort is Chandni Chowk on Yellow Line which is 1.5km away from the red fort.

Road - They can use auto rickshaws, taxis, and local buses to reach the fort. Tourists can catch buses from ISBT Kashmiri Gate, ISBT Anand Vihar, and ISBT at Sarai Kale Khan

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Gateway of India

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Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001

This 20th-century monument was erected to commemorate the landing of King George V and Queen Mary at Apollo Bunder on their visit to India in 1911. The structure itself was built in 1924 and is located in Mumbai City and overlooks the Arabian Sea. The arch is made of basalt and stands at 26 meters (85 feet) high. It is kind of like an entryway to India.

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Air – The best airport to get to Mumbai is through Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. It is about 30 km away from the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal (CST Station), which is a railway station. This can be used to get around Mumbai City.

Train - The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is the most popular station in Mumbai.

Important Trains to note are the Mumbai Rajdhani, Mumbai Duronto, Konkan Kanya Express.

Road – Mumbai is very well connected with national highways and roads. For individual tourists, it is best to take the bus since it is the most economical and cost-efficient method. Private buses and taxis also run daily to this attraction. These amenities can be found at the center of the city at the Mumbai Bus Stand.

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Kashi Vishwanath Temple

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Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Kashi Vishwanath Temple is undoubtedly the most renowned Hindu sacred site in Varanasi. It was constructed in the 18th century. The temple is also entitled the Golden Temple. The spire of the shrine is made with 800 kg of gold and looks beautiful during the day. The temple has ancient Hindu text all over the temple called Skanda Purana.

Visitors can come and pay respect to the different deities and perform the pilgrimage at the temple. Some nearby attractions and things to do while visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple are the Yoga Training Centre, the Panchaganga Ghat, Nepali Temple, and the Alamgir Mosque.

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Tourists can perform the pilgrimage of the temple on any day from 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Besides, the aarti timings are:     

Mangala Aarti: 3:00 AM to 4:00 PM Bhog Aarti: 11:15 AM to 12:30 PM Sandhya Aarti: 7:00 PM to 8:15 PM Shringar Aarti: 9:00 PM to 10:15 PM Shayan Aarti: 10:30 PM to 11:00 PM

Nearby attractions: • • • • •

Panchganga Ghat Nepali Temple Scindia Ghat Yoga Training Centre Dasaswamedh Ghat

• • • • • ​

Ganesh Mandir Ghat ​ Beni Mahadev Temple ​ Alamgir Mosque ​ Banaras Toy Museum ​ Ganesh Mandir Ghat ​

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Adalaj Stepwell (Rani Ki Vav) Adalaj Rd, Adalaj, Gujarat 382421

It was built by the Hindu queen Rani Rudadevi with help from neighbouring Muslim ruler King Mahmud Begada. The structure is built in the Solanki style of architecture, with Islamic influence. It has five storeys, and each storey is uniquely designed and has beautiful carvings all over the walls and columns. Stepwells are common in many regions of India, especially in Gujarat and Rajasthan. The term used for step-wells in Gujarat is Vav while in Rajasthan they are called Baoli. Stepwells served two key purposes back in the day, one as a place to store water and the other as a place for travellers to stop by during their long journeys. The designs of these buildings are ancient and historic. The architecture is beautiful, and the walls tell a story.

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The visiting hours are 8 am to 7 pm.

Some tips when traveling on a budget: 1. Go to Lal Darwaza (it’s the central bus station) 2. Take a shared auto or a bus to Adalaj town (inform that you want to go to the vav) 3. An auto will cost Rs 30 and a bus will be much cheaper If you have some more money, you can take an auto from Ahmedabad city and directly go to the stepwell. Let the auto not wait for you otherwise he might charge you a bomb as a waiting fee. You can find an auto/ bus/ shared-auto easily after you are done with the visit. You can also take a radio cab for a drop and then take an auto for the return trip.

The non-shared auto will cost about Rs 200-250, a cab will be slightly more. The journey takes about forty-five minutes in the auto.

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Chittorgarh Fort

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Chittor Fort Rd, Chittorgarh, Rajasthan 312001 Chittorgarh Fort is regarded as the symbol of Rajput chivalry, resistance, and bravery. The fort is located east of Udaipur and is believed to be named after the person who built it, Chitrangada Mori. It is one of the largest forts in India, at 180 meters high on a hill that rises from the banks of river Berach. The fort is known for its seven gates named Padan Gate, Ganesh Gate, Hanuman Gate, Bhairon Gate, Jodla Gate, Lakshman Gate, and the main gate which is named after Lord Ram. There are two prominent towers within the premises of the fort namely Vijay Stambha (Tower of Victory) and Kirti Stambha (Tower of Fame). when viewed from above, looks roughly like a fish A huge complex of Jain temples is a major attraction. Chittorgarh Fort and other forts in Rajasthan were declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013.

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There is a legend that goes with this fort that states that Chitrangada Mori, a local Maurya ruler built the fort. A water body that was situated next to the fort is said to have been created by the legendary hero of Mahabharata, Bhima. The legend has it that Bhima once struck the ground with all his might, which gave rise to a huge reservoir.

Visiting Time: 9:45 AM – 6: For Indian Residents Ticket price = Rs 15.

If you are not an Indian citizen, then you will have to shell out Rs 200 For SAARC and BIMSTEC nationals the Chittorgarh Fort ticket price is Rs 30.

257

Sabarmati Ashram / Gandhi Ashram

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Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India - 380 027

Gandhi’s first Ashram in India was established in the Sabarmati area of Ahmedabad on 25 May 1915. The Ashram was then moved to a piece of open land on the banks of the river Sabarmati in 1917. The Ashram is presently involved in several activities that serve to both preserve the history of Gandhi and the freedom struggle. It also promotes and educates people in the great philosophies, values, and teachings of Gandhi. Currently, the Ashram serves as a source of inspiration and guidance and stands as a monument to Gandhi’s life mission and a testimony to others who have fought a similar struggle.

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Some activities to do during your stay at the ashram are: ​  Collecting,

processing,

preserving,

and

displaying

archival

materials

(writings, photographs, paintings, voice-records, films, personal clothes , etc ​  Microfilming, lamination, and preservation of negatives ​  Arranging exhibitions on aspects of Gandhi’s life, literature, and activities ​  The Ashram Trust funds activities that include education for the visitor, the community , and routine maintenance of the museum and its surrounding grounds ​  Keeping contact with as well as helping and undertaking study and research in Gandhian thought and activities and publishing the results of such study and research and allied literature for the benefit of the people ​  Observance in a suitable manner of occasions connected with Gandhi’s life ​  Maintaining contact with the youth and student community and providing facilities to them for the study of Gandhian thought. ​ ​Hours of Operation: 8:30 am – 6:30 am ​

259

The Golden Temple / Sri Harmandir Sahib

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Golden Temple Rd, Atta Mandi, Katra Ahluwalia, Amritsar, Punjab 143006 Sri Harmandir Sahib also known as the Golden Temple is the spiritual center for over 20 million Sikhs worldwide. It was built by Maharajah Ranjit Sing, founder of the Sikh Empire of India in 1799 – 1849. Temple has marble inlays all along the floor and the upper floors are covered in 750 kilos of pure gold. It is truly a remarkable sight to see.

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Devotees can bathe in the Golden Temple's holy pool which is told to have healing properties. The temple also offers a free vegetarian meal at the temple kitchen for all visitors and sometimes even serves 100,000 a day. Everyone sits together on the floor as equals and there is no discrimination towards foreign visitors. ​ All visitors must remain barefoot, and everyone passes through a separate footwashing pool before entry.

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The Khajuraho Temple

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Khajuraho City has many temples, but The Khajuraho Temple is a very popular tourist destination. It was built during the Chandella Dynasty which ruled in the 10 th and 11th centuries CE. The art and architecture surrounding the temple and the carvings are remarkable. The City has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There were once around 85 temples in Khajuraho, now there are only 22 Hindu temples left now due to damages from nature and deterioration. Khajuraho Temples are also ranked as the best monuments of antiquity by the Archeological Survey of India.

Some of the activities that tourists can enjoy during their visits are festivals and dance shows. Tourists can enjoy the festival of Classical Dances that is often held during the months of February and March. There is a week-long festival that encompasses 7 classical dances of India. The dances include Indian classical dance genres like Manipuri, Bharat Natyam, Oddissi, Kucchipudi, Mohiniattam, Kathak, and Kathakali. Famous dancers and singers come to these festivals to celebrate certain holidays and spiritual prayers.

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There are also various handcraft stores and Crafts Emporium from where you can buy various sculptures made of brass, iron and stone.

By Air: Civil Aerodrome Khajuraho Airport in Khajuraho is the nearest airport (6 Km) that connects several. Tourists can get flights from Mumbai and Delhi to visit these temples.

By Rail: Khajuraho Railway Station (5.9 Km) is the nearest railway station to reach the destination. Another railway station is the Mahoba Railway Station which is located 63 Km from Khajuraho.

By Road: There are various private buses which go to and from Khajuraho to several other cities. Major cities like Jhansi, Satna, Harpalpur, Jabalpur, and others. There are also taxis and rickshaws from the train station to get to the temples and private cars.

Best Time to Visit: September to March 263

Jama Masjid - Delhi

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Jama Masjid Rd, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi 110006

This mosque in Old Delhi is the largest mosque in India and has a courtyard that can hold 25,000 devotees. This is also an architectural monument built by Shah Jahan, the Emperor who built the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort. This mosque is located right opposite of the Red Fort and tourists can see all 3 monuments in one visit if timed accordingly. The architecture and stones used to build this is very similar to the Taj Mahal.

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The Jama Masjid has three great gates, four towers, and two 40 m-high minarets constructed of strips of red sandstone and white marble. The prayer hall is decorated with arched marble structures inscribed with a detailed history of the mosque. Travelers can rent out robes at the northern gate to fit the attire of the mosque. There are separate entrances for individuals who are non-vegetarians. For non-vegetarians, Al Jawahar and Karim are the prominent eateries in Jama Masjid.

To reach by road, board the bus operating from ISBT Kashmere Gate or Old Delhi railway station. Private cabs are also available.

Cost: Jama Masjid’s entry fee is INR 50 for Indian nationals and INR 300 for foreign tourists.

Hours of Operation: Mon-Sun 7 AM TO 630 PM 265

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/amber-fort-and-maota-lake-jaipur-rajasthan-india-gm1135820309-302299849

Top 5 Landscapes to Visit Across India 266

The Himalayan Mountain Range

Image Credit: https://www.worldatlas.com/mountains/the-himalayas.html

The Himalayas is known as the greatest mountain range as it extends across Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, and Pakistan. The name is derived from two Sanskrit words ‘Hima’ and ‘Alaya’ meaning ‘Abode of Snow’. The popular Mount Everest is one of the peaks formed from the Himalayas. The Indian Himalayas run through 5 major states covering the north of India. The most popular regions to visit there are: Jammu, Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Uttaranchal, and Sikkim.

The presence of the mountain range affects the climate and ecology of the Indian subcontinent, with varying temperatures in its regions and different flora and fauna.

There are several activities that can be done around this area, visit Responsible Travel for more info on tours, tickets, seasons for optimal travel, and activities such as trekking, birdwatching, animal searches, etc.

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Activity North India Himalayas & Shimla Toy Train Tour Snow Leopard Tracking in the Himalayas Himalayas Cultural Tour, Foothills & Faiths North East India Cycling and Hiking Tour, Eastern Himalayas

Price $2200 - $2700/ 14 days $3100 - $3500/17 days $2100 - $2300/12 days $3300/12 days

Image Credit: https://www.worldatlas.com/mountains/the-himalayas.html

Tourists and visitors at the Shimla Train Station.

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The Thar Desert (Rajasthan)

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/master-in-desert-gm1024816978-274960037

Also known as the Great Indian Desert, the Thar desert spans over 200,000 sq. km and forms a natural border between India and Pakistan. It is believed to be around 4,000 – 10,000 years old. The desert spreads over 4 Indian states; Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, with most of the desert accessible from the state of Rajasthan. It is famous for its challenging ventures, camel rides, and attractive camping spots.

You are also likely to witness cultural programs that provide insight into India’s colorful cultures, the atmosphere also creates several romantic opportunities for couples, like a moonlit dinner under the desert sky or an overnight camp, sleeping under the stars. Another tourist spot close to the desert is the golden city of Jaisalmer, you can visit the people and view the beautiful architecture and temples.

For more information on how to book tours, guides, and reviews, visit Trip Advisor.

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Activity 2 Days and 1 Night Camel Safari Overnight Stay in the Desert 4x4 Thar Desert Safari Cultural Show in Great Thar Desert Royal Rajasthan Tour (The Land of Kings) Enchanted Rajasthan Curated Journey

Price $48.49/per adult $81.17/per adult $88.55/per adult $73.79/per adult $810.33/per adult $1,636.26/per adult

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/city-palace-and-pichola-lake-in-udaipur-india-gm629006734111808979

City Palace and Pichola Lake in Udaipur, Rajasthan.

270

Magnetic Hill (Ladakh)

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/magnetic-hill-leh-ladakh-jammu-and-kashmir-india-gm5375808 13-57904238

This hill in Ladakh is home to a strange phenomenon that defies gravity; 30km outside of Leh City lies a stretch of highway that pulls stationary vehicles upwards, thereby making it a perfect destination for curious travelers and tourists. There have been several theories to try and explain this phenomenon like the path pulls the ‘chosen ones’ all the way to heaven, while scientists believe there is simply a naturally-occurring strong magnetic field in this area that even planes have to avoid flying over to prevent magnetic interference. The other theory is that there is just optical illusion at play here; what looks like the upslope of the hill is actually just a downslope and the cars are going downhill not uphill. The best times to visit are between September and October due to the mild temperatures, Entry is free and there aren’t many other activities to engage in on the hill itself.

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How to Reach

By Air

By Train

By Road

Distance The hill is 32km from Leh International Airport The nearest station is Jammutawi at 700km from Leh Ladakh State transport buses or private buses run frequently from Delhi to Manali-Leh highway at 490 km

Tourists have to stay in Leh Ladakh and travel to the hill for a visit. They can engage in other activities around the town, exploring the Basgo Monastery, the Ney Valley, or the beautiful countryside. To get other ideas on what activities, group, or private sightseeing tours to do, check Trip Advisor.

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/thiksey-monastery-gm827904398-134746405 Thikse Monastery located in Thiksey, east of Leh Ladakh

272

Majuli Island (Assam)

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/beautiful-scenery-of-majuli-island-gm1219436373-356704122

Majuli Island can be located in India’s far northeast region, tucked away and untouched by the modern world, is known as the world’s largest river island at 352 sq. km and sits on the Brahmaputra River. It has two towns – Garamura and Kamalabari as well as other smaller villages. There Is an abundance of natural beauty and tranquility you find on this island that is unlike other tourist destinations which are densely populated. There are monasteries to visit, a wide population of domestic and migratory birds on the island as well; which would interest avid birdwatchers and you can also visit their loom-makers, pottery makers, or mask makers who cater to several clients from within India and abroad, with their unique and colorful mask designs worn for all sorts of festivals. Tour Packages can be researched on and booked on the Majuli Island Travel Guide website.

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Transportation Mainland Jorhat to Majuli Island by boat or ferry Tour of the Island by Taxi Rent a cycle tour

Price 15 rupees (₹)/passenger 1600 rupees/person/1 day 300 rupees/person/1 day

The island can be accessed only by boat or ferry from Jorhat. There are guesthouse options for travelers once you get to the island itself. The best times to visit are between September to March as from April, the rainy season begins, and this region experiences major flooding and monsoons.

Image Credit: https://thirdeyetraveller.com/majuli-island-travel-guide-2018/

A mask workshop - Natun Samaguri Satra on Majuli Island.

274

Coral Reef - Lakshadweep

Image Credit: https://www.lakshadweeptour.in/tour-packages/coral-reef-package.html

Lakshadweep means ‘a group on one thousand islands. It is an archipelago of 36 islands, 12 atolls, 3 reefs, and 5 submerged banks. They are known for their golden unexplored beaches, coconut palm trees, and crystal-clear water of beautiful colors.

Only 10 islands are inhabited, with a total size of 32km² on a lagoon spanning 4200 km². The coral atolls are the only ones in the country and thus, serve as a national heritage, there is a vast array of underwater plant and animal life, making this location not just a place of interest for tourists holidaying but for scientists and marine biologists. There are several activities one can engage in like kayaking, canoeing, scuba diving, tours with glass-bottomed boats, snorkeling. The experience on each island offers different opportunities, there are different tour packages for each location such as the Kochi tour, the Minicoy tour, the Kavaratti tour, the Kalpeni, and the Kadmat tour; they all fall under the ‘Coral Reef Package’.

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How to Reach

By Air

By Water

Route Information Indian Airlines fly to Kochi, Airstrip in Agatti island. Flight from Cochin to Agatti duration – 1h30mins.

There are 6 passenger ships - MV Kavaratti, MV Arabian Sea, MV Lakshadweep Sea, MV Lagoons and MV Corals operate between Cochin and Lakshadweep. Duration of trip is 14-18 hrs.

You can also visit Agatti and Bangaram Islands. Due to the remoteness of these locations, reservations have to be done well in advance and there is a list of dos and don’ts each passenger must comply with. More booking info can be found on Lakshdweeptourism.com and Lakshdweeptour.in. The best season to visit is from September to May as temperatures are not too hot or cold and the monsoon season has not begun yet.

Image Credit: iStock by Getty Images. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/waiting-to-sail-gm1224360439-359974265

Kalpeni island, Lakshadweep Islands.

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Top 5 Street Food Locations 277

Pani Puri Pani puri has a filling of warm boiled

chickpea

masala

and

boondi and sprouts. The Pani served is spicy and tangy. It can also be filled with potato with Jal jeera and pudina flavored water.

The hollow puri used in golgappas is available in two types: atta and sooji. It can also be served with Click to add text

tamarind water and spices.

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Vadapav It

is

spicy

potato

filling

sandwiched between buns and layers of spicy garlic and green chutney. It is one of Mumbai’s most famous foods. The literal translation is Vada = deep-fried potato patties and pav = burger buns. It has 4 main ingredients – the vada, the dry garlic coconut chutney, the green chutney, and the sweet https://www.cookwithmanali.com/wp-content/uploads/ 2018/04/Vada-Pav-500x500.jpg

tamarind chutney.

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279

Litti Choka Litti

Chokha

is

a

traditional

Bihari/Jharkhand dish that is like the Rajasthani Baati. The Litti is the bread that is made from flour and is stuffed with sattu and the chokha is the side dish made

using

eggplant,

potato,

or

tomatoes. The Litti is also served with a spicy chicken curry depending on the individual. This dish was very popular and easy to make during war times as it didn’t require much water, and it would also stay https://www.secondrecipe.com/wp-content/uploads /2021/12/litti-chokha-air-fryer-705x900.jpg

fresh for a longer time.

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280

Lakhnavi Kebab

This kebab is made with minced chicken or lamb, and it is a very famous appetizer/snack. It is often topped off with sliced red onions as a garnish to add spice and flavour. It is best served with mint chutney or Ketchup. It can be made to https://www.thefooddictator.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/ image5-e1445736554576.jpeg

the spice preference of the individual. It can be served alone or as a side dish to Briyani or Roti. Popular restaurants that serve this in India are Dastarkhwan and Corner.

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281

Zeeshan

Biryani

Masala Chai/Tea The Masala Tea is a very popular drink served on almost every corner, street, and bazaar in India. The literal translation means spiced tea. It is basically black tea with milk and water with a mixture of aromatic

herbs

and

spices.

It

has

4

simple

ingredients black tea, whole spices, milk (or nut milk), sweetener/ sugar. No matter how popular this tea is around the world, it does not taste the same as it does on Indian soil.

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https://carameltintedlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Masala-Chai-.j pg

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Top 5 Beaches 283

Gokarna (Karnataka)

Image Credit https://www.holidify.com/images/bgImages/GOKARNA.jpg

Known for its idyllic beaches and pristine waters, Gokarna is a favorite among travelers who seek a peaceful vacation. It is the more laid-back and less commercialized version of Goa. Other than the famous Om beach, it has Kudle beach and the more secluded Half Moon and Paradise beach. Gokarna Beach is several kilometers long and is situated at the edge of the temple town. You can find many stores selling souvenirs, unique cafes, and beach shacks. This is a place where you will find many cafes and shacks, where the hippie culture of Gokarna lives. It is quite popular with pilgrims who come to the town to seek the blessings of Shiva, Indian groups, and with foreign tourists as well. There is more to the muddy uphill roads with forests on both sides than a hike or a family picnic. The steep rocks in the shallow sea allow rock climbing for the adventure junkies. Bird and animal life is plenty around the serene beaches. Getting a crash course in yoga is another great way to spend the morning.

284

Elephant beach (Andaman and Nicobar Islands)

Image Credit https://travelogyindia.b-cdn.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/

Elephant Beach is one of the most popular destinations in Havelock Island, due to its serenity, clear water, and water sports. The beach is located 8.6 KMs from the jetty and is considered the water sports haven of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. You can reach the beach from the main jetty which is approximately 20 minutes by boat from the Havelock Island dock or get a public bus from the main Jetty or hire a bike. Otherwise, you can also get an auto which is found around the jetty in Havelock Island. This place is ideal for relaxing spending leisure time with food and drinks. Besides, if you feel like doing some fun activities this beach offers water sports like diving, snorkeling, swimming, bird-watching, trekking, and kayaking. Being famous for its coral reefs, sea walking is also actively partaken and the best part is, anybody with a zest for adventure can indulge in this underwater fun.

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Prior to planning your traveling, avoid summer since it is really hot and also a rainy season as Water sports will be closed and you won't find any elephants. Avoid tracking during rain. Generally, the water of Elephant beach is disturbed. Therefore, scuba and sea walk is generally stopped but there are almost pretty chances of doing glass bottom rides, Jet Ski, and snorkeling. If you are asking yourself if they are elephant rides let me, tell you that there are no tourist elephants there. The beach got its name due to elephants that were brought from India mainland for some construction activity, and later they were taken back. Nevertheless, on the Elephant beach, you may get to witness elephants, but you can't see elephants swimming.

Image Credit https://www.hotelbeachside.com/top-10-most-beautiful-beaches-inandamannicobarislands/images/

286

Candolim & Calangute Beach (Goa)

Image Credit https://i0.wp.com/itsgoa.com/wp-content/uploads/

Candolim is more chilled, with mainly European tourists, while Calangute is a busy working town, and gets a lot more Domestic tourists, especially at the weekends. So, it's great if you like hustle and bustle, and people watching. If you are a beach person, the Candolim beaches are better, cleaner, and less crowded. The best way to reach Candolim Beach from Panjim, which is at a distance of 15 km away is by auto rickshaws or taxis. One can also hire a bike from Panjim for Candolim Beach.

Calangute is a town in the North Goa district of the Indian state of Goa. It is famous for its beach, the largest in North Goa, and a popular tourist destination. Calangute Beach is a 4mile-long beach that lies between Baga and Candolim beach. The beach is popular among tourists due to the availability of restaurants, clubs, and shopping activities. Calangute is also famous for its water sport activities. One can experience para-sailing, water surfing, banana ride, jet-ski 287

Minicoy (Lakshadweep)

Image Credit https://www.holidify.com/images/cmsuploads/compressed/

Minicoy, locally known as Maliku, is an island in Lakshadweep, India. Along with Viringili, it is on Maliku atoll, the southernmost atoll of the Lakshadweep archipelago. It is the second-largest and southernmost island in Lakshadweep, crescent-shaped, and has one of the largest lagoons. It is located amidst the vast expanse of the Arabian Sea, just 398 km or 215 nautical miles from the shores of Cochin. The small island encompasses a total area of 4.801 sq. km and is exclusively known for its vibrant coral reefs, quaint white-sand beaches, and the freshwater of the infinite ocean. Minicoy Island is the second-largest island of the Lakshadweep. It is best known for its luxury beach resorts that are an ideal destination for travelers seeking tranquility.

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This picturesque destination is a popular tourist spot and has gained immense popularity due to activities like tuna canning, tuna fishing, and the presence of pristine palm-fringed beaches. A beach with white sand coupled with the clear blue waters of the Arabian Sea and laden with palm and coconut trees add to the natural beauty of this place. The old lighthouse is a major attraction of the island which was built by the Britishers in the year 1885 and offers a jaw-dropping view of the Minicoy and the majestic sea. Kayaking on the traditional boats and exploring the vibrant coral reefs while scuba diving and snorkeling are some of the best experiences to have on the islands.

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Kovalam beach (Kerela)

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Kovalam is a small coastal town in the southern Indian state of Kerala, south of Thiruvananthapuram. At the southern end of Lighthouse Beach is a striped lighthouse with a viewing platform. Palm-backed beaches also include Hawa Beach and Samudra Beach.

Heading south, Vizhinjam Juma Masjid mosque overlooks the busy fishing harbor. Inland, Sagarika Marine Research Aquarium displays technology used in pearl production. Kovalam is famous for its beaches, among the most pristine in India. Kovalam is extremely popular among westerners due to its shallow waters and low tidal waves. There are two sections to the crescent-shaped beach – the Lighthouse Beach and the Eve’s Beach. Both beaches are beautiful on their own and offer a wide variety of activities to enjoy. Kovalam seated on the Coromandel Coast shines vibrantly under the sun and is known for its breathtaking scenery.

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You can do a lot of activities such as water sports, swimming, windsurfing, sailing, catamaran cruising, fishing, diving, parasailing, sunbathing, and herbal beach massage sessions. Interesting places to visit during your stay can be The Lighthouse, Karamana Stream and Boating, Vellayani Lake, Valiyathura Pier, Edakallu, Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple, Kovalam Art Gallery. You can reach Kovalam beach by road on the way to Mahabalipuram down the East Coast Road and the distance from the city of Chennai to the beach is 40 km. You can also head for the beach by car, taking OMR Road through Kelambakkam or for that matter ECR Road through Thiruvanmiyur to reach Kovalam. You have the option to go by train by Trivandrum Central Railway Station, just 15 km off Kovalam. The station connects with most Indian cities including Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Chennai. After reaching Trivandrum station, hire a cab, taxi, or take a bus to reach Kovalam Beach. Otherwise, the Trivandrum International Airport is 15 km off Kovalam and the nearest one to the beach.

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Top 5 Festivals in India 292

Diwali

Imagine Credit: https://www.npr.org/2021/11/04/1052383178/heres-how-india-is-celebrating-diwali

Also known as the festivals of lights. Diwali is the most important national festival of the year in India, celebrating the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. It tops all other festivals with its lengthy, large-scale, and multi-faith celebrations in India.

The holiday overlaps with the Hindu New Year and as a result, is associated with a chance to reset and start anew. The course of the five days includes cleaning the house, buying new furnishings, and exchanging gifts with loved ones. It also centers on traditions such as buying new kitchen utensils to help bring good fortune, as well as other practices to attract the goodwill of spirits.

Diwali typically takes place in late October or early November, and the celebrations last for 5 days, with the third day being the main day of the festival.

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Day 1 (Dhanteras - worship of wealth): Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped on this day and there is a custom to purchase something precious. People cleaning and shopping Day 2 (Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali): People wake up early and apply aromatic oils on them before taking a bath. This is said to remove all sins and impurities.

They wear new clothes, offer Puja, and enjoy by lighting diyas and bursting a few crackers. Home Decoration Day 3 (Lakshmi Puja): Lakshmi Puja is performed on this day. Goddess Lakshmi is believed to enter homes and bless people with good fortune. Tiny oil diyas, candles, and electric lights are placed around the house. Families exchange gifts and gather Day 4 (Govardhan Puja or Padva): It is the day when Lord Krishna defeated Indra by lifting the huge Govardhan Mountain. People make a small hillock, usually of cow dung, symbolizing Govardhan and worship it. Celebrating the love between husband and wife.

Day 5 (Bhai Dooj): On this day sisters invite their brothers for a lavish meal and perform a ‘tilak’ ceremony. Sisters pray for their brother’s long and happy life while the brothers give gifts to their sisters.

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Kumbh mela festival

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Is a religious festival that is celebrated four times over the course of 12 years, the site of the observance rotating between four pilgrimage places on four sacred rivers—at Haridwar on the Ganges River, at Ujjain on the Shipra, at Nashik on the Godavari, and Prayag at the confluence of the Ganges, the Jamuna, and the mythical Sarasvati. Each site’s celebration is based on a distinct set of astrological positions of the Sun, the Moon, and Jupiter, the holiest time occurring at the exact moment when these positions are fully occupied. Therefore, approximately once a century, the Kumbh Mela returns to a site after 11 years. Four sites are broadly recognized as the Kumbh Melas: Allahabad, Haridwar, Trimbak-Nashik, and Ujjain. The Kumbh Melas have three dates around which most pilgrims participate, while the festival itself lasts between one to three months around these dates

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Navratri

Imagine Credit: https://theculturetrip.com/asia/india/articles/what-is-navaratri-inside-the-nine-dayfestival/

Navratri is a 9-night festival (September 26th to October 4th, 2022), in honor of three goddesses. Nava means ‘nine’, ra means ‘night’, and tri refers to the ‘three’ levels of ourselves — body, mind, and soul. So, Navratri is a time of prayer and rejuvenation.

The first 3 nights focus on the goddess Durga to remove the barriers and evils on our body, the second 3 nights focus on the goddess Lakshmi (goddess of wealth and good fortune), and the last 3 nights on goddess Sarasvati (goddess of knowledge, music, art, speech, wisdom, and learning).

Navaratri is celebrated across India. During this festival, people worship different forms of maternal divinity by fasting, meditation, and prayers and with traditional dance forms like dandiya.

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People also dress in different colored dresses each day of the celebrations: First day — yellow Second day — green Third day — grey Fourth day — orange Fifth day — white Sixth day — red Seventh-day — royal blue Eighth day — pink Ninth day — purple

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Onam

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Onam is a 10-day harvest festival (August 30th – September 9th in 2022) that takes place in Kerala. It is the most revered and celebrated festival in Kerala. Onam is celebrated to mark the beginning of the harvest season and commemorate the return of the mythical King Mahabali. Onam is full of cultural events including traditional dances, sports competitions, boat races, and Kathakali performances. Every household also creates a pookalam, which is a decoration made from flower petals and rice that is placed on the floor at the entrance of homes and buildings.

The most important day of Onam is called Thiru Onam (September 8th, 2022), which directly translates to 'sacred Onam day'. Thiru Onam is when the competitions, boat races, feasts, and temple events all take place.

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Lohri

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It is believed by many that the festival marks the passing of the winter solstice. Lohri marks the end of winter and is a traditional welcome of longer days and the sun's journey to the northern hemisphere by Hindus and Sikhs in the northern region of the Indian subcontinent. It is also seen as New Year’s Day for Punjabi farmers.

Lohri night falls in the month following the longest night of the year, usually on January 13th or January 14th.

Lohri is the first of India’s rich and diverse melange of festivals to be celebrated with great pomp and energy across different regions of the country in the new calendar year.

It is an optional holiday generally, but a public holiday in Punjab.

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It is the first celebration of the year when:  You will see excited children and adults practice diligently for dance performances  You will hear the majestic sound of the beat of the dhol or drums to popular Punjabi folk numbers  You would, of course, have witnessed the glorious and heart-warming sight of the bonfire How Lohri is celebrated:  People take a dip in the holy waters of rivers to cleanse themselves of their sins.  Donate to charity as a mark of sharing the bounties they have been blessed with.  Children traditionally visit every house in the neighborhood singing songs and collecting contributions for the bonfire.

Image Credit: https://www.dnaindia.com/lifestyle/column-celebrating-lohri-the-festival-is-a-symbol-ofthe-element-fire-2707218

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NIGERIA 301

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About Nigeria

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Nigeria is a country located on the western coast of Africa. Nigeria has a diverse geography, with climates ranging from arid to humid equatorial. However, Nigeria’s most diverse feature is its people. Hundreds of languages are spoken in the country, including Yoruba, Igbo, Fula, Hausa, Edo, Ibibio, Tiv, and English. The country has abundant natural resources, notably large deposits of petroleum and natural gas. The national capital is Abuja, in the Federal Capital Territory, which was created by decree in 1976.

Nigeria is bordered to the north by Niger, to the east by Chad and Cameroon, to the south by the Gulf of Guinea of the Atlantic Ocean, and to the west by Benin. Nigeria is not only large in area—larger than the U.S. state of Texas—but also Africa’s most populous country. Nigeria is divided into 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, where the country’s capital, Abuja, is located; the constitution also includes a provision that more states can be created as needed. The Naira is the monetary unit of Nigeria. The naira was introduced in 1973 when the country decimalized its monetary system and substituted the naira for the Nigerian pound (the country used the British pound sterling when it was a British colony). The languages of Nigeria are classified into three broad linguistic groups: Niger-Congo, Nilo-Saharan, and AfroAsiatic.

Nigeria has a tropical climate with variable rainy and dry seasons, depending on location. It is hot and wet most of the year in the southeast but dry in the southwest and farther inland. A 303 savanna climate.

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Top 10 Tourist Destinations 304

Yankari Game Reserve

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Yankari Game Reserve is a large wildlife park located in the south-central part of Bauchi State, Nigeria. It covers an area of about 2,244 square kilometres. Yankari Game Reserve and Resort, also called Yankari National Park is arguably one of the most beautiful places in Nigeria. A gem tucked away in Bauchi State, it gained national prominence in 2016 when its Governor, Mohammed Abubakar offered a free stay at Yankari National Park. A visit to the Yankari game reserve will serve you well.

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Things to take with you: A camera, cash, sunglasses, drinking water, comfortable hiking shoes, your overnight kit, and a safari kit.

It is home to several natural warm water springs, as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna. The reserve is also a vast village for animals such as primates, waterbucks, bushbucks, oribi, crocodiles, hippopotamus, wild ox, and countless species of monkeys.

When is the best time to visit: The best time to have the full experience of Yankari is during the dry season with warmer temperatures, typically between March and April. This allows you to see a wider range of animals during the safari.

Image Credit: https://guardian.ng/life/the-best-places-in-nigeria-for-wildlife-lovers/

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Lekki Conservation Centre

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Lekki, Nigeria, is an oasis of nature within the urban chaos of Lagos, and the suspended canopy walkway that rises over the reserve is the longest in all of Africa. The canopy walkway features six towers that rise over 22 feet each. They are connected by a series of suspended (and swinging) walkways that offer a unique (if somewhat harrowing) 360-degree view of this part of the world from high above the treetops. The treetop walk stretches about 1,315 feet long (more than three and a half football fields), setting the record for the longest on the African continent.

Located at Km 19 on the Lekki-Epe Expressway. The conservation center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The suspended walkway is optional for visitors. Note that the walkway requires climbing stairs. Entry is N1000.

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Agbokim Waterfalls

Image Credit: https://ibiene.com/travel/agbokim-waterfalls-a-wonder-of-cross-rivers/

The waterfall is made up of seven streams, which fall wildly over steep cliffs, providing seven-faced falls. Agbokim Waterfalls sits on the cross river and descends into (what some claim is) the middle of the tropical rainforest. The rainforest is picturesque with lush and green scenery.

Oral history has it that the Agbokim Waterfalls area can be traced back to the early 1900s when a hunter named Ntankum discovered the fall area. He brought his family – nuclear and extended, who were then living in a mountainous area to inhabit the waterfall area. This newly found complex river that also serves as a border between Cross River (Nigeria) and Cameroun helped provide water which could be boiled, to form salt; forest for hunting, and food crops for consumption as they gathered and shared in common with each other.

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Ogbunike Caves

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For the locals and soldiers who hid and lived there for days and weeks in some cases, it was familiar territory; a complex maze of caves that outsiders could never understand.

It was not the first time that the Ogbunike caves offered a place for hiding; it is said that slave traders in pre-colonial times hid in the caves from which they planned and executed slave raids. The safety and refuge that the caves have provided across history are partly why they hold special importance. The Ogbunike caves are actually a system of many caves linked together by small, tunnels and passages. They take their name from Ogbunike, a town in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State where they are situated.

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The main cave consists of a massive structure with a big open chamber of about 5m high, 10m wide, and 30m long at the entrance. Beyond their storied history as a place of refuge, the Ogbunike caves have an important spiritual heritage that dates back many years before the white man first set foot on African soil, to a time when they worshiped in its darkest recesses. It is said that the Ogbunike caves were discovered by a man named Ukwa, from the Umucheke family of Ifite-Ogbunike, about 4000 years ago.

Legends claim that the caves were created by a deity, Ogba, who they believe lives within. to the indigenes of Anambra and the East of Nigeria, to an extent.

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Nike Art Gallery

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You have not been overwhelmed by art until you’ve entered the Nike Art Center, a whopping five stories jam-packed with around 8,000 different pieces of artwork. The massive building said to be the largest gallery in West Africa, is open to the public for free and regularly features a diverse legion of up-and-coming African artists alongside household names.

The center was founded by Nike Davies-Okundaye, who grew up steeped in her family’s culture of textile making, dyeing, weaving, and painting. She’s credited with teaching thousands of young Nigerian artists over the last 40 years, as well as providing exhibition space for showing works.

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Obudu Mountain Resort (Obudu Cattle Ranch)

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Obudu Mountain Resort (formerly known as the Obudu Cattle Ranch) is a ranch and resort on the Obudu Plateau in Nigeria. It was developed in 1951 by Mr. McCaughley, a Scot who first explored the mountain ranges in 1949. He camped on the mountaintop of the Oshie Ridge on the Sankwala Mountains for a month before returning with Mr. Hugh Jones a fellow rancher who, in 1951, together with Dr. Crawfeild developed the Obudu Cattle Ranch.

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At the base of the hills on which the ranch is located lies a world-class built water park with state-of-art swimming facilities and water slides for children, teens, and adults. The hilltop (cattle ranch) is about 11 km of winding road from the base and can be accessed by either the cable car or the road. The ranch has numerous pleasant mountain-area and country-side views. Tourist attractions include the water park, cable car, ranch cattle and horses, and waterfall.

Cattle are bred on the ranch for their fresh milk, butter, meat, and cheese, and these are available in the dairy section daily. Cows were brought in from Holland for management by Farmfresh Limited to give residents of the ranch the best of naturally processed dairy products. There are also birds and pigs that produce eggs and pork respectively, in commercial quantities.

Image Credit: https://ar.trivago.com/en/obudu-587500/hotel/obudu-mountain-resort-1250468

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Osun Sacred Grove

Image Credit: https://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/13/travel/sacred-grove-nigeria-osun-osogboworship.html

In the past, most Yoruba settlements had sanctuaries like the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove in the forests nearby, but now there is no other place like it left in the cultural region of Yorubaland. The grove, in the primary high forest just outside the city of Osogbo in southwest Nigeria, contains over 40 shrines and is visited by Osun worshipers, traditional healers who gather the medicinal plants that grow there, and tourists from all over the world. Hunting, fishing, and farming are prohibited in the area, and on a walk through the woods visitors might glimpse a sitatunga antelope or encounter troops of white-throated monkeys (categorized as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature), playing in the trees, or begging for the bananas they are accustomed to getting from passers-by.

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New Afrika Shrine

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One of Fela’s keyboardists, Dele Sosimi, revealed that in 1971 the venue at which Fela performed most frequently became known as ‘The Afrika Shrine’. On Saturdays, he’d request a moment of silence during his performance to pay homage to the ancestors and gods, and then perform a ritual that usually took about 10 to 15 minutes.

Sosimi added that Sundays were usually family-orientated so that parents could take their children to watch the performance.

In October 2000, on the third anniversary of Fela’s death, his eldest son, Femi, opened The New Afrika Shrine in celebration and honour of his father’s memory. Four times bigger than the original, The New Afrika Shrine is a cultural center for the community and accommodates up to 2,000 people.

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Kainji Lake National Park

Image Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kainji_National_Park

Kainji Lake National Park is one of the largest parks in Nigeria. The merger of Zugurma game reserves and Borgue, created the park in 1979, covering an area of 5340sq.km.

It is one of the jewels of Nigeria containing several flora and fauna resources of Nigeria and nearly added with the famous Kainji Lake Oil Hydroelectric Complex. The Park houses a lot of wildlife like elephants, lions, buffaloes, antelope, hunting dogs, hippos, patas, monkeys, lion, python, Nile crocodile, leopard, hyena, buffalo, kob, cobra, green snake, bushbuck, tilapia, mountain reedbuck, red flanked duiker, oribi, grimms duiker, warthog, mongoose, stone partridge, snakehead, hadada ibis, Bee-eaters, electric catfish clawless otters, hartebeest, turtles, manatees, roan goanna, baboons, antelopes, kobs, ape, Ducker, crocodile, and316 so many others.

There are varieties of bird species, approximately 180 species of birds have been recorded. These include Secretary Bird, Ground Hornbill, jugglers, oriole warbler, great white pelicans, and other rare pale arctic migrants. The Climate exhibits wet and dry seasons from April to November and November to April respectively.

Image Credit: https://tribuneonlineng.com/why-we-protect-animals-plants-at-kainji-lake-national-park-conservatorgeneral /

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Ikogosi Warm Springs

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One of the most popular tourist destinations in Nigeria, Ikogosi Warm Spring is a unique site where warm and cold springs merge, both maintaining their thermal properties. Located in Ekiti State, Ikogosi is situated in a dense forest and extends over a hilly landscape.

Many stories have been told as regards the history of this site. The most striking of all the tales is that the warm and cold water were wives of a man who, after a long contest, turned into springs through magical means. The troublesome wife became the warm water, while the gentle and peace-loving wife became the cold water. However, it is largely believed that the spring was discovered by a Baptist Missionary in 1950.

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Top 10 Historical Monuments 319

The Cathedral Church of Christ Lagos

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29 Marina Rd, Lagos Island 101001, Lagos, Nigeria

It is a very popular Anglican church located in the city of Lagos. It has Gothic Architecture and a great history to go with the building. It was built in the 1920’s and is known as the oldest Anglican church in Nigeria. The building houses beautiful stainedglass windows that are a sight to see. The is also a Tower Clock and Fountain that draws in a large crowd, especially during events.

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Here is a list of Sunday Services: • ♱ Holy Eucharist 07.15am (Said) • ♱ Choral Mattins 09.15am • ♱ Children's Church/Sunday School 09.15am • ♱ Combined Service 09.15am (Every First Sunday) • ♱ Cornerstone Fellowship 09.15am ( Every 2nd & 3rd Sunday) • ♱ Holy Eucharist 11.15am (Said On 2nd Sundays) • ♱ Evensong 05.00pm (Every 1st & 2nd Sunday) • ♱ Healing Service (Every 2nd Sunday) • ♱ Community Hymn Singing 05.00pm (Every 3rd Sunday) • ♱ At The Feet Of Jesus 05.00pm ( Every 4th Sunday) • ♱ Psalmody 05.00pm (Every 5th Sunday) Here is a list of Weekday Services: • ♱ Holy Eucharist 06.45am (Said - Monday - Friday) • ♱ Holy Eucharist 07.45am (Saturdays And Public Holidays) • ♱ Hours Of Intercession 12.30 - 01.30pm (2nd Tuesdays) • ♱ Diocesan Hours Of Intercession 02.00 - 04.00pm (4th Tuesdays)

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Emir of Kano's Palace

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Emir Palace Rd, Kano City 700103, Kano, Nigeria This structure was constructed in the 15th Century. It is the longest seat of power for a ruling authority in the Sub-Saharan Africa. It has a huge lot of about 33 acres and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of historic monuments. The Emir of Kano’s Palace has traditional Hausa architecture It is currently a living quarters home to the current Emir Aminu Ado Bayero II. It has a full compound that contains schools, living spaces, offices, gardens, and even mosques.

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It is best for visitors to come during the Gidan Rumfa with Kano’s also know as the Durbar festival. It is a four-day celebration held after Eid al-Fitr at the close of Ramadan and Eid al-Adha, at the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

Visiting Gidan Rumfa during Ramadan isn’t recommended unless you will be participating in prayer, as regular visiting hours are restricted due to religious gatherings.

Things to Know: The palace is open to visitors from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays. A pass from the Emirate council is required to enter the palace for a guided tour and can be obtained ahead of time, but tourists are generally able to walk the grounds without formal permission from the council.

Women are recommended to wear a hijab or a covering their head and either a long skirt and sleeves or traditional kaftan.

Men should wear long sleeves and pants or a traditional kaftan. There are sections of the Gidan Rumfa that are gender-segregated, and some that do not permit women to enter.

Image Credit: https://www.nigeriagalleria.com/Nigeria/States_Nigeria/Kano/Images/Emirs-Palace-Kano2.jpg

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Tafawa Belewa Square

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45/57 Massey Bamgboshe Street, Lagos Island 102273, Lagos, Nigeria This area is named after Nigeria's first Prime Minister, Tafawa Balewa. The Square is situated in the middle of Lagos at the city center. It is surrounded by impressive buildings and memorial sites and is used constantly for a variety of celebrations and official functions in Nigeria. It is a great place to experience Nigerian Culture. Tafawa Balewa Square was where Nigeria celebrated its independence on October 1st, 1960. It holds a great significance to Nigeria’s history as a country as it is the place Prime Minister Balewa announced the country's independence and did his speech.

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The distinct features attract tourists with a unique gate with four giant white horses and seven red eagles suspended above the gateway. There are other things to see around the square. There is 26-storied Independence House, and The Remembrance Arcade, which commemorates those who fought in WWI, WWII and the country's civil war. It is also near the National Museum that features the Benin City brasses, traditional ivory carvings, royal crowns and the famous Nok Terracottas which is a must see when visiting Nigeria.

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The Walls of Benin City

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The walls of Benin City and its surrounding kingdom were a man-made marvel described as “the world’s largest earthworks prior to the mechanical era”. Home to the Benin Empire which was one of the oldest states in West Africa, during the11th century.

This monument was semi destroyed by the British in 1897 during what has become known as the Punitive Expedition. This shocking act destroyed more than a thousand years of Benin history and some of the earliest evidence of rich African civilizations.

It is made up of banks and ditches, called “Iya” in the Edo language, and is about 15 kilometers from the city Iya. It is estimated to be around 16 000 kilometers from the rural area around Benin. The walls stood for over 400 years, protecting the Edo people of the kingdom, as well as the traditions and civilization.

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The Walls of Kano

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Ancient Kano City Wall is a 14km earth structure that acts like a gate. It is associated with and houses sites like Dala Hills, Kurmi Market and Emir's Palace. It was named an UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007. It was built in order to provide security to the growing population of the city.

The foundation for the construction of the wall was conducted by Sakri Gijimasu from 1095 - 1134 and was completed approximately in the 14th Century.

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Image Credit: https://afktravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/mud-mosque-djenne-mali-wide.jpg

Kurmi Market is one of the oldest and largest local market in Africa. It used to serve as an international market where North African and some European goods were exchanged for domestic goods through trans-Saharan trade.

Dala Hill is an archaeological site of an ancient settlement dating back to the 10th century AD. Emir’s Palace is a full compound that contains schools, living spaces, offices, gardens, and even mosques that was built in the 15 th century for the Emir.

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The Slave Museum (Calabar Slave Museum)

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X889+HCG, Duke Town 540281, Calabar, Nigeria This structure was previously a 15th century slave-trading warehouse that is now a museum located near Marina Beach. The Slave History Museum derived its name from the activities that took place in Calabar during that time. The museum was established in 2007 and commissioned on 17 March 2011.

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The museum's five main exhibits include the Esuk Mba Slave Market in Akpabuyo, objects and tools of the slave trade, including Chains and Shackles, the Procurement of Slaves, and the abolition. This experience provides a different perspective of the history of Nigeria and how the people of this country were treated. It is a life changing and educational experience that any tourist must put on their itinerary.

Things to Know: It is opened to the public every day of the week including Saturdays and Sundays as well as public holidays.

Pictures are not allowed in the museum so you might not be able to get a photo inside. Entrance fee is N200 only and it is a guided tour.

Image Credit: https://www.aljazeera.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/0d30d629ccd441a291691ae8e98edfda_18.jpeg? fit=1000%2C562

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Kajuru Castle

Image Credit: https://independent.ng/wp-content/uploads/Kajuru-Castle.jpg 802123, Kajuru, Nigeria Kajuru Castle is an exclusive and luxurious hotel getaway built in an early medieval era of Nigeria. It is located in Kajuru village of Kaduna. This gorgeous architectural masterpiece with breathtaking ambience is set upon elevated peaks with enchanting views of the city. Kajuru Castle is styled in a European has a strong German influence with a baronial hall, which even includes suits of armour. Many influential people try to stay at this location. This is a great spot to visit near the end of your visit to relax, enjoy the music, and have a mellow evening. The food here is quite exceptional but you may even bring your own food or use the grill provided by the hotel.

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Image Credit: https://cdn.face2faceafrica.com/www/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/kajuru.jpg

Things to Know: This castle operates on an exclusive basis and can only accommodate 12 individuals or 5 couples at a time.

Guests can either bring or plan for their meals or ask the management to make an arrangement with food service providers in town, who will make deliveries at an extra cost. However, guests can choose to use the castle’s sufficiently equipped kitchen.

Check In- 10:00 am (ID Required) Check Out- 12:00 pm Pet- Pets are not allowed Children- Children are allowed to stay for free with their parents 332

Ancient Nok Settlement

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Nok settlement is located in the Jaba Local government area in the southern part of Kaduna State. It is where the famous terracotta figurines of the Nok civilisation are located. It is one of Africa’s oldest places in history were civilisation first occurred. Nok village also hosts a government run museum where unique terracotta carvings and antique are displayed. These ancient artifacts are a must see and are very different to the other museums in Nigeria. The architecture of this settlement has a rare, monumental beauty to it.

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Oduduwa Grove

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This monument is popularly known as Oduduwa World Groove Temple. The site is located at Ile-Ife Oduduwa is Orisha (or god). The deity is known as the first Ooni of IleIfe, Oduduwa Olofin Adimula and held the regnal names Olofin Aye and Olufe. There is an ancient belief that the deity created the Yoruba people and established life at the city of Ife (also Ile-Ife). It is also believed that this deity is responsible for the creation of the concept of cultural identity and kingship. Some individuals say that this location is where the god descended from above and the land holds a great deal of miraculous power.

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Things to Know: There are a few excursions that tourists can purchase to view this religious monument.

The rates for these range from anywhere around $ 500.00 to $ 800.00 USD per individual.

It is also important to know that this area should be avoided during rain season due to slippery terrain and flooding.

Image Credit: https://media.istockphoto.com/photos/suspension-bridge-over-the-osun-river-osunosogbo-sacred-grove-osogb o-picture-id1143783395?k=20&m=1143783395&s=170667a&w=0&h=p7zfmvdcOTbrlLcC0ICKX7gCNJzlg8djVyTm ZIpnFgE=

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Freedom Park Lagos

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Old Prison Ground, Broad St, Lagos Island, Lagos, Nigeria This site was reconstructed out of the ruins of Her Majesty’s Broad Street Prisons. It is a building now that preserves the history and cultural heritage of the Nigerian People. Freedom Park Lagos is a National Memorial and landmark. It is also a Cultural Site for visitors and citizens. There are many spectacular events that take place at this facility. It is home to a museum, art gallery, an amphitheatre with a stage, a large food court, and even a garden.

It is a great place for any dynamic of people and great for families with children. It can accompany a large group of people at even of these locations ranging from 50 people to 180 people.

Things to Know: It operates from 10 am to 10 pm.

It costs around Two Hundred Naira (N200) per person 336

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Top 5 Nigerian Festivals 338

Calabar Carnival

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Calabar Carnival is known as "Africa's Biggest Street Party" or the "Pride of Nigeria".

For the entire month of December, the city of Calabar puts on numerous carnival events.

Calabar which is also known by the name Canaan City is a city in south-eastern Nigeria. Calabar is actually the capital city of Cross River State. Calabar sits adjacent to the Calabar and Great Kwa Rivers as well as the creeks of the Cross River.

The Calabar Carnival is without a doubt the biggest, best, and longest tourism event in West Africa. It attracts over two million revelers and features participants from over 25 different countries. The Battle of the Bands and Street Parade is even broadcast to a television audience of around fifty million.

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The highlight of Calabar Carnival is the Street Parade that features the Battle of the Bands. The Parade is only a slither of Calabar Carnivals attractions. There are ceremonies, concerts, art shows, street parties, masque events, sporting events, and non-stop parties.

The program is drafted each year by the committee in charge of tourism and cultural activities and new initiatives are introduced every year with different topics chosen each year to drive the carnival.

Image Credit: https://www.inlandtown.com/governor-ben-ayade-suspends-2021-calabar-carnival/

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Gidi Fest (Gidi Culture Festival)

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Gidi Fest, is an annual one-day music and arts festival, celebrated in April since 2014.

It takes place at Landmark Beach Front, Lagos, Nigeria. The event was created in response to a demand from the local youth culture for live, affordable, and accessible entertainment in Africa. The African music movement has seen success across Africa and beyond to the UK and the US. Lagos’ Gidi Fest is part of a new wave of festivals developing the economic potential of the music industry locally and also acting as an ambassador for African music across the world. The festival is affordable for young people, offers a safe space for audiences, and promotes an economically viable live music platform for African music in Nigeria.

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The event is a melting pot of African sounds but also offers a platform to tell Nigeria’s stories from Nigeria’s point of view and change negative perceptions.

With a global outlook, Gidi Fest is a celebration of the progression of urban youth culture in Africa, expressed through music, food, art, games & travel. It includes live music, games, food, and art exhibitions as well as offering training, volunteering, and internship programs.

Image Credit: https://gidiculturefestival.com/press-release/

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Durbar Festival

Imagine Credit: http://adenowoseyi.blogspot.com/2016/08/travel-journal-kano-state-durbar.html

The Durbar festival is an annual religious and equestrian celebration in several cities of Nigeria including Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Zazzau, and Bida. The festival marks the end of Ramadan and coincides with the Muslim festivities of Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitri.

It begins with prayers, followed by a colorful parade of the Emir and his entourage on horses, accompanied by musicians, and ends at the Emir’s palace. Durbar festivals are organized in almost all cities of northern Nigeria and have become a major tourist attraction. In Northern Nigeria, the practices date back over 200 years.

The Durbar festival had been in Hausa land for more than 500 years. It was introduced by Sarki Muhammadu Rumfa of Kano in the late 14th century, as a way of demonstrating military power and skills before going to war.

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The festival is also an opportunity for local leaders to pay homage to the emir throughout the Jahi cheering.

The durbar is a celebration of that longstanding horse culture. Horses and camels became critical to the survival of highly developed city-states. Horses, along with slaves, gold, and salt, formed the backbone of the expanding trade across the Sahara with Egypt, Algeria, and Morocco before Christopher Columbus sailed to the Americas. Emirs based their military might on the cavalry. Powerful lieutenants, under a chief cavalry officer, the madawaki, would lead forces of horsemen, loaded down with lances, axes, shields, and chain-mail coats into battle against rival states.

Image Credit: https://artsandculture.google.com/story/kano-durbar-festival-nigeria-s-most-spectacularhorseparade/tQLi5tQ-fjobJA

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Ofala Festival

Imagine Credit: https://www.nigeriagalleria.com/Nigeria/States_Nigeria/Anambra/Ofala-FestivalAnambra.html

The Ofala Festival is an annual ceremony practiced by Igbo people, particularly the indigenes of Onitsha, Umueri, Umuoji and other neighboring communities. Ofala Festival is one of the most popular festivals in Onitsha. Onitsha indigenes are a people who cherish their heritage and value their culture very much in spite of their early contact with education.

Four days before the festival, the Igwe goes into seclusion. He retreats to commune with his ancestors, and to thank them for protecting him and his subjects for the past one year as well as pray for peace and prosperity in the year to come. On the day of the festival, the Obi makes three appearances.

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After the early morning rituals, the trumpeters announce his entry before he shows up, fully dressed in his royal regalia, highlighted with the royal crown (okpu ododo), acknowledging the crowd that would have gathered by waving at all the directions to the people and then returns inside.

During the second outing, the trumpets are blown again, and the Obi comes out and seats on his throne. This is followed by the entrance of the red-capped chiefs (ndi-Ichie) also well-dressed in their traditional attires in batches, according to their village music and in order of seniority, proceed to pay homage to the Obi by kneeling to bow before him and sing his praises, after which he now performs the function of Iwa-ji (celebration of the first yam) to mark the official declaration of the harvest season.

At the third entry, the royal music plays, and sets the rhythm for Obi’s dancing (egwu ota) as he makes his appearance, amid cheers and praises from the crowd, he steps into the arena and dances to the tune of the drummers. He dances in turns with his first wife, his first son and first daughter and returns to his throne giving way to a parade of dances by different groups.

Image Credit: https://howng.com/biggest-masquarede-in-anambra-appears-as-last-ofala-festival-iscelebrated-in-honour-of-late-igwe-godfrey-photos/

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Igue Festival

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The Igue festival takes the pre-eminence among festivals celebrated in the state. It is celebrated every December by the reigning Oba and his subjects to marks the end of the Benin year and to usher in the new year and as a thanksgiving for the outgoing one.

It is a festival brings good luck. It is the belief of the Edo people that the luck of their monarch is intertwined with the people over which the monarch reigns. The people look up to the Oba for leadership. The Oba is the embodiment of the Edo culture, and his luck becomes their own. It is for this reason that the Igue festival is celebrated every year.

The festival usually begins with the anointing of the Oba's head with chalk signifying purity and the blood of the sacrificial animals which are usually slaughtered during the festival which is characterized by merriment.

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Top 10 Nigerian Delicacies 348

Party Jollof Rice

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Jollof rice is a very common dish prepared in many African countries and each recipe differs depending on the nation. Party jollof rice is commonly the most sort after type of rice, because of its very unique taste. Most people feel the unique taste comes from preparation using firewood, but this is not a limitation to tasting a good Jollof rice plate.

Party Jollof rice is as much important to try as you try risotto in Italy, and you should definitely try it when you visit Nigeria.

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Here are top restaurants serving Nigeria’s most sumptuous delicacy in her capital city, Abuja: Restaurants

Address

Website

BluCabana Restaurant and Café

1322 Shehu Yar'adua Way, Mabushi, Abuja, Nigeria

https://www.blucabana.com/

Bukka at the Hilton

1 Aguiyi Ironsi Street Maitama, Abuja, 900001, Nigeria

https://www.hilton.com/en/hilton/

Wakkis

Plot 171 Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja.

Nigeria.

www.wakkis.com

Nkoyo Restaurant

Ceddi Plaza |Jabi Lake Mall | K-City Plaza

https://nkoyoinc.com/

The Charcoal

Wuse, 904101, Abuja, Nigeria

http://www.charcoalgrillabuja.com/

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Puff puff

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Puff puff or beignet in French is a deep-fried dough. They are made from yeast dough, shaped into balls, and deep-fried until golden brown. It has a doughnut-like texture but is slightly chewier. It is a very common snack eaten by so many countries but with different names and a little bit of variation in the mode of preparation. Puff-puff, as it is called in Nigeria and Sierra Leone, sometimes Ghana, and in anglophone Cameroon, is a traditional African snack made of fried dough. Puff-puff is usually eaten for breakfast, as a snack, or as a side dish. Regardless of when you eat them, they are enjoyable with or without a side dish.

Puff puffs can be eaten sweet or savory and it’s a great snack, appetizer, or dessert.

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Suya

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Suya, a Nigerian street snack, is a spicy meat skewer that is a popular food item in West Africa. Suya is generally made with skewered beef, ram, or chicken. Innards such as kidneys, liver, and tripe are also used. The term “suya” can refer to the preparation technique or the resulting dish and can apply to other meats, such as goat and chicken. Preparing this dish requires skill and expertise. Suya is probably the most popular street food in Nigeria sold on street corners almost everywhere in Lagos and beyond.

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Moi-Moi

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Moi Moi (also called moin moin) is a delicious, savory steamed bean pudding made commonly in Nigeria from a mixture of blended black-eyed peas or beans, peppers, onions, and spices.

Moi Moi is a healthy and delicious traditional dish and is also highly rich in protein. It is a great solution for diabetes or anyone eating a low sugar/carb diet. If you don’t want to gain weight while you are visiting this amazing country would be a great solution to taste this dish.

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Egusi soup

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Egusi is a West African name for the seeds of plants like squash, melons, and gourds that, when dried and ground become a staple ingredient in many West African dishes.

These seeds are rich in fat and protein and add these essential nutrients to this West African Cuisine.

Nigerian Egusi soup is one of the most popular soups consumed in

Nigeria. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy and rich in vitamins that are important for the growth of red blood cells. It is one of the most popular soups prepared by most tribes in Nigeria with considerable variation and is often eaten with dishes like Pounded Yams.

354 If you will visit Lagos that you should try this dish in Natives Restaurant and Bar.

Vegetable soup (Efo-Riro)

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Efo riro is a vegetable soup and a native soup of the Yoruba people of western Nigeria.

Efo is the name of the African wild spinach and Efi Riro means mixed spinach. The two vegetables most commonly used to prepare the soup are Celosia argentea and Amaranthus hybridus. This dish is well known for its savory taste and richness. Efo Riro is prepared with assorted meat, fish, a large number of green vegetables, and peppers sometimes tomatoes are added. You can also choose a vegetarian dish and you will taste this delicious dish. You will find it in most of the restaurants in Nigeria.

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Abacha & Ugba

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Abacha and Ugba, also known as African salad, is a cassava-based dish from the Igbo tribe of Eastern Nigeria. Abacha is simply dried and shredded cassava while Ugba, on the other hand, is fermented African oil bean seed. The key to making a good African Salad is to make sure that all the ingredients are well incorporated. This African Salad will not be complete without Ugba. Ugba, also known as Ukpaka, these oil bean seeds are cooked for several hours then sliced, washed, and left to ferment a little bit. Abacha and Ugba are most commonly served with fried fish and cowskin, known as ponmo. Don’t be surprised when this dish although looks like the main meal, is actually served as a dessert.

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Plantain (‘ Dodo’- fried, ‘Bole’-roasted)

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Plantains are starchier than bananas and not very sweet when green. Plantains can be boiled, baked, or fried. Bananas and plantains are both fruits that come from the same family of plants. Bole is the most popular roasted street food dish in Nigeria. Roasted plantain (bole) can be served and eaten with groundnuts or eaten with smoked fish and pepper sauce. Do you know that there is a bole festival, the biggest food festival in Southern and Eastern Nigeria?

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Based on the city and part of the country this dish is served differently. Dodo, as it is called in Yoruba, refers to fried sweet plantains. If you want to take more time and visit the city, remember that dodo is a dish that is simple to prepare and fast.

Image Credit https://i.pinimg.com/736x/b2/cb/f8/b2cbf8a97bcdf196dc8dd33e73f8bbb2.jpg

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Ofada Rice

Image Credit https://www.myactivekitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/ofada-stewrecipe-image_9.jpg

Ofada rice is a name for varieties of rice grown in southwest Nigeria and is used in a variety of dishes. It is very healthy and is identified as Brown rice. The traditional dishes made with this unpolished brown rice are Ofada Sauce, typically spicy, and Ofada Rice Stew. You will taste a dish rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants and low in calories, and gluten-free. You can pair ayamase stew with ofada rice for best results, can eat it with boiled yam or boiled unripe plantain.

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Nkwobi

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Nkwobi is a delicious spicy cow foot Nigerian delicacy. What makes this dish unique is the sauce with which the meats are mixed. Nkwobi is often mistaken for Isi Ewu but they are not the same because although they have similar ingredients Isi Ewu is made with a goat head. If you go to a decent-looking establishment like many of the chill spots/bars around, you can typically buy a plate for just N500 Nigerian naira or 1.61 Canadian dollars. It is said to be best served with a cold beer or palm wine.

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Top 10 Nigerian Fruits 361

Cashew Fruit

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It is also known as cashew apple. The cashew is native to northeastern Brazil.

Portuguese missionaries took it to Nigeria during the late 16th century, where it became abundant at low altitudes near the seacoast. The cashew apple is used locally in beverages, jams, and jellies, though most cultivation is directed toward the production of the valuable seed crop. Parts of the cashew must be handled with care by susceptible individuals because it is related to poison ivy and poison sumac and can cause an allergic reaction in some people.

The flavor of the cashew apple is tropical but not solely fruity. People often detect citrus, mango, and non-sweet fruit flavors in it like cucumber and bell pepper. All in all, it’s described as having a sweet to bitter and slightly acidic taste. It’s not hard like the cashew nut, but rather densely fibrous. It becomes juicy as you eat it, even watery.

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Agbalumo (African Cherry)

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This fruit, known as the African Cherry or African Star Apple, is very similar to an orange fig. Rich in Vitamin C, this fruit can be eaten dried, juiced, or fresh when ripe enough. Some people say eating is fresh is the best way to enjoy its authentic flavor.

The flavor of Agbalumo is complex as the skin, flesh, and seeds all taste different.

Overall, the flesh has a flavor that is sweet and sour, with acid notes similar to citrus fruits, particularly lemon.

The sweet and sour taste of Agbalumo acts as a natural remedy for common issues such as constipation, toothache sore throat, and indigestion. African cherry has a sourlike taste that hits the palate of the mouth and stops one from throwing up or spitting excessively. It is arguably the reason why some pregnant women crave it.

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Tropical Almonds (fruit)

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Having its roots in the Leadwood tree family, it is a large tropical tree, that cultivates mainly in the tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia. It bores corky and light fruit that are dispersed by water. Having a similar taste to that of an almond, the seeds of the fruit are edible when fully ripened. Having both the male and female reproductive organs in the same individual; hermaphrodite, they are monoecious, with separate male and female flowers on the same tree.

The almond-shaped fruits turn yellow or orange before falling. The fleshy shell is rich in tannin, but the kernel inside is edible and has an almond-like taste.

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Ube (African Bush Pear)

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African pear or bush pear is a native fruit of West Africa mainly found in southeast Nigeria, popularly called Ube. It is interesting to eat it with roasted or cooked corn. It is pink in color when unripe but turns dark purple when ripped; It has a butter-like nature when roasted or dipped in hot water and is enjoyed by all. It consists of almost half of fat and tastes therefore buttery, which is why the fruit is also called “bush butter fruit”.

It is known for its use in skincare. Ube is rich in Vitamin C; it is a strong antioxidant and a dietary supplement that can prevent scurvy and keep the skin glowing.

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Garden Egg

Imagine Credit: http://www.nigerianlazychef.com/2018/10/egg-plant-sauce-garden-egg-sauce-my-potof-deliciousness/

Garden egg is a type of eggplant that is used as a food crop in several countries in Africa. It is a small, white fruit with a teardrop or roundish shape that is valued for its bitterness and crunchiness. This green miniature fruit is usually served with a peanutbased dip or sauce. Its high fiber content makes it a nutritious snack choice.

Garden egg is an important crop in several African countries and is indigenous to subSaharan Africa. It can be stored for up to three months by letting it dry. This is a useful characteristic in the tropics given the lack of refrigeration in some rural areas.

Garden egg is used as a less expensive meat substitute because its spongy texture allows it to absorb other flavors, similar to meat.

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Tropical Pepper Fruit

Imagine Credit: https://ng.opera.news/tags/mmimi

Pepper fruit is a tropical fruit dominant in West Africa and is a kind of berry that is pungent, peppery, and medicinal in nature, found in most parts of Nigeria. It is called Mmimi in the Igbo language.

It contains some valuable nutrients and phytochemicals which are beneficial to human health in different ways.

The pepper fruit tree thrives mainly in the Savannah and rainforest zones while the fruit usually ripens between April and May. Edible mature pepper fruit is mostly chewed raw but can also be used for food preparations and for preparing herbal medicines.

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Both the fruits, leaves, roots, and barks of the plant are distinguished by their strong pungent, spicy, and pepperish taste, fragrance, and aroma.

Pepper fruit is normally chewed as a fruity snack due to its peppery stimulating effects.

It is normally served together with palm wine, garden eggs, bitter kola, and kola nuts during festivals, cultural ceremonies, coronations, traditional marriages, naming ceremonies, new yam festivals, and special events in the eastern part of Nigeria.

Image Credit: https://www.nairaland.com/3907929/10-superb-health-benefits-pepper

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Dates

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The fruit (dates) of the Date palm tree is a staple fruit across most parts of Nigeria. It's cultivated for its sweet fruit, and it's got an oval-cylindrical shape. When ripe, it has a bright yellow color and when dried, it turns brown.

In Nigeria, it is not unusual to see northern vendors carrying around the Date Fruit in wheelbarrows especially the dried version which has a sweet taste, unlike the fresh fruit which has a sour taste. Although Dates can be eaten fresh, it is often sold dried, and they look like large raisin.

Dates are known to be an energy boosters, they have a high natural sugar content like glucose, sucrose, and fructose.

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June plums (Hog Plums/Yellow Mombin)

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June Plums are rather interesting, with a spiky core that must not be eaten. After removing the spike-filled seed, this fruit can be enjoyed as dried fruit in food, fresh as a snack, or mixed in with spices to create a savory taste.

The fruits mature from green to yellow and can be seen at multiple maturity stages on a single tree, appearing solid green, and solid yellow, to variegated hues of green and yellow. Underneath the surface, the flesh is firm, depending on the degree of ripeness, and ranges in color from pale yellow to white. As the fruit matures, the pit's coarse, woody nature extends into the flesh, creating a tough consistency. June plums are crisp, firm, and dense when young with a sweet, pineapple-like taste. As the fruit ripens, it develops a softer, aqueous consistency with a mildly acidic, musky, sweet, and sour flavor reminiscent of a combination of soursop, pineapple, mango, and star fruit.

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Olohun (Nigerian Local Strawberry)

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This fruit looks like red grapes, but they are not. The Yorubas call them Olohun; often sold in piles or loose form, children enjoy eating this fruit. Once eaten, it can turn your tongue purple.

The fruit is a thick-skinned berry and typically measures 3–4 cm in diameter. The fruit resembles that of a slip-skin grape. It has a thick, purple, astringent skin that encases a sweet, white, or rosy pink gelatinous flesh. Embedded within the flesh are one to four large seeds, which vary in shape depending on the species.

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Black Velvet Tamarind

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Popularly known as Awin in Yoruba, Icheku in Igbo and Tsamiyar kurm in Hausa. It is a seasonal fruit with an orange pulp. Velvet tamarind comes under the Leguminosae family, which is tall, growing under tropical climatic conditions, and also bears fruits. The fruits are similar to the grapes and are consumable containing hard shells which must not be consumed. Since the fruit contains tamarind flavor it has its English name tamarind. Taste is both sweet and sour, more than Tamarind it is sweeter, dryer, and has a powder-like consistency with a firm shell. When the fruit is dried it becomes powdery and the orange color possesses a tangy flavor. The Velvet Tamarind fruit has a lot of medical applications. The leaves extract is used to solve problems of gastric ulcers. The leaves possess a lot of several diuretic properties helping in producing urine and also helps the heart to pump blood thus eradicating the complications of hypertension.

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5 Native Nigerian Instruments 373

Talking Drum

Image Credit: https://www.westmusic.com/drums-percussion/world-drums-percussion/talking-drums/ remo-td-0816-18-talking-drum-8-x-16-african-stripe-201423

Drummers in west Africa who play hourglass-shaped percussion instruments called dùndúns can make their instrument not only sing but talk. New research published in the journal Frontiers in Communication is one of the first to show the high degree of acoustic correlation between these talking drums and the spoken Yorùbá language.

Dùndún drumming is a musical-oral tradition where skilled drummers, manipulating the intensity and pitch of the instrument, can mimic Yorùbá, a tonal language mainly spoken in southwest Nigeria. Dubbed ‘talking drums’, dùndúns can be used as purely musical instruments or what scientists refer to as speech surrogates, imitating the three tones of the language.

374

Shekere

Image Credit: https://motherlandmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/shekere-hover-icon.jpg

In Africa, one of the most popular instruments is the shekere. Throughout the continent, it is called different things, such as the lilolo, axatse (Ghana), and chequere. It is predominantly called shekere in Nigeria. Musicians dance and sing while they shake a shekere or bang it on their knees. The shekere is a percussion instrument made from a gourd with a beaded skirt. The instrument was originally from Africa but is now used in Afro-Caribbean, Jazz, Salsa, and other popular music. A shekere is made by drying the gourd for several months and then removing the pulp and seeds. After it is scrubbed, skilful beadwork is added as well as colour.

Shekeres among the Yoruba of Nigeria are often connected with religion, given great respect, and play a very important role in traditional music. When African slaves were taken to the “New World,” they carried with them many of these rich musical traditions, which took root in varying degrees in different parts of the Americas and the Caribbean.

375

Kakaki

Image https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kakaki

The kakaki is a three to four-meter-long metal trumpet used in Hausa traditional ceremonial music. Kakaki is the name used in Chad, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Benin Niger, and Nigeria. The instrument is also known as Malakat in Ethiopia. An ancient instrument, the kakaki was predominant among Songhai cavalries. Its sound is associated with royalty, and it is only played at events at the palace of the king or sultan in Hausa societies. It is used as part of the Sara, a weekly statement of power and authority.

Kakakis are exclusively played by men.

376

Ogene

Image Credit: https://motherlandmusic.com/products/instruments/bells/oghene/oghene/

Musical instruments have played a major role in the lives of humans. Whether for entertainment, religious or economic reasons, the beautiful thing is that it transcends boundaries, race, or class. Musical instruments come in different shapes, forms, sizes, and the kind of sounds they produce. People interpret the sound of musical instruments in different ways. In some communities with deep cultures, certain musical instruments are used to pass messages.

One of these instruments is the Ogene; used majorly in the Igbo-speaking part of Nigeria (Eastern Nigeria). The Ogene is a type of bell, commonly used as a “master instrument” in a band in the Igboland. It is an instrument of the idiophone class and is made of iron by specialist blacksmiths.

377

Ekwe

Image Credit: https://refinedng.com/indigenous-musical-instruments-across-major-tribes-in-nigeria/

An Ekwe is an Igbo traditional musical instrument. The ekwe is a type of drum with rectangular cavity 'slits' in the hollowed-out wooden interior. The ekwe is made out of wood and most commonly a tree trunk. The ekwe comes in a variety of sizes and designs and each size is determined by the purpose it is being used for. An ekwe can be used for traditional cultural events, or it can be used for music. The ekwe is also used as a type of talking drum communicating, in the past, with others at long distances. The ekwe's rhythm gives different rhythms from celebration to emergencies.

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