10 of World's Most Expensive Hotel Rooms

Most of us have simple demands when it comes to travel lodging– a bed, a bathroom, a TV and wi-fi. There are others, however, whose demands far eclipse the simple convenience of your basic hotel room. When the world’s most wealthy travelers take a vacation for their own, they are treated to suites that cover entire floors of a hotel building, rooms that include a personal butler, hell– some even come with their own private helicopter. Take a peek into the experience of the world’s most wealthy travelers.

Thanks to Nachocelebrity for writing this Top10 article.

1 – Royal Villa at Grand Resort Lagonissi
Athens, Greece ($50,000 a night)

The Grand Resort’s Royal Villa gives the world’s most exclusive guests a private version of everything imaginable. The only other people lucky guests have to see while secluded in their heated pool, steam room or private beach is the suite’s dedicated butler, chef and pianist.

2 – Hugh Hefner Sky Villa, Palms Casino Resort
Las Vegas ($40,000 a night)

Hugh Hefner’s Playboy-themed suite at the Palms Casino resort has a $700,000 jacuzzi that cantilevers out above the Las Vegas strip. The 10,000 square-foot, two-story suite comes with around-the-clock butler service and a rotating bed set beneath a mirrored ceiling.

3 – Ty Warner Penthouse, Four Seasons
New York ($34,000 a night)

The Ty Warner Penthouse practically floats in Manhattan. Floor-to-ceiling windows surround all sides of the massive suite, surrounding guests in 360-degree views of the city skyline from atop Manhattan’s tallest hotel. The nine-room suite has walls inlayed with mother of pearl, gold and platinum-woven fabrics, and the room itself includes a private butler, unlimited global calling and TVs programmed to receive every channel in the entire world.

4 – Royal Penthouse Suite, President Wilson Hotel
Geneva, Switzerland ($33,000 a night)

President Woodrow Wilson reportedly suffered from high blood pressure, so it’s safe to assume he would have appreciated a stress-free stay at President Wilson Hotel’s Royal Penthouse Suite. Consuming the entire top floor of the hotel, the four-bedroom suite can hold up to 40 guests in its cocktail lounge and is said to be the best digs for heads of state wanting to make an impression when they’re in town on United Nations business.

5 – Bridge Suite at The Atlantis
Paradise Island, Bahamas ($25,000 a night)

The 10-room Bridge Suite at Bahamian resort The Atlantis fills the entire space linking the hotel complex’s two flagship towers. Forbes reports the suite has hosted guests including Oprah and Michael Jackson.

6 – Ritz-Carlton Suite, The Ritz-Carlton
Moscow, Russia ($18,200)

Floor-to-ceiling windows outline the Ritz-Carlton Suite at the hotel chain’s Moscow location. Imperial furniture fills the 2,500 square-foot suite, which comes with a heated floor, a grand piano and a library. The suite has views of the Kremlin, Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral and visitors get to enjoy five meals a day and their very own KGB-approved autonomous energy supply system and secure telecommunications array.

7 – Royal Suite, Burj Al Arab
Dubai, United Arab Emirates ($18,000 a night)

A two-story suite that centers around an epic staircase, Burj Al Arab’s Royal Suite has Carrara marble floors, mahogany furniture and a master bedroom with a rotating four-post canopy bed. Guests enjoy Hermes bathroom products, Faubourg fragrances, their own private elevator and cinema and for a bit extra– a chauffeur driven Rolls Royce or helicopter.

8 – Royal Armleder Suite, Le Richemond
Geneva, Switzerland ($17,500 a night)

Le Richemond’s Royal Armleder Suite reopened in 2007 after an extensive restoration of the hotel’s seventh floor, which the luxury suite occupies the entirety of. The suite is bedecked in gold, mosaics and parquet floors and has a 300 square-foot terrace with stunning views of Geneva and the nearby Alps.

9 – Royal Suite, Four Seasons George V
Paris, France ($16,000 a night)

The George V in Paris boasts a pair of “sumptuous” Royal Suites that each come with private terraces and rooms filled with antique furniture. Each suite has a marble entrance, a full kitchen, a sauna and a separate bathroom for guests. The expensive 2,600 square-foot suites are split into separate spaces for sleeping and entertaining, both of which also have a private office.

10 – Imperial Suite, Park Hyatt-Vendôme
Paris, France ($15,500 a night)

Situated on the second floor of the Park Hyatt-Vendôme’s Haussmanian building is the hotel’s 750 square-foot Imperial Suite. Thise pricey suite has high ceilings, a dining room, kitchenette and bar. When visitors tire of toiling, they relax with an “In Suite Spa” that comes outfitted with a steam room, Whirlpool and built-in massage table.

• Reference/Source: Nachocelebrity [Tuesday, January 18, 2011]

The Top 10 Al Qaeda Detainees (Guantanamo Bay)

Inmates regarded by the authorities as 'high-value detainees' alleged to have taken part in 9/11 and other terrorist plots (they include two Malaysians)

Hambali (Ridouan Isomuddin)
Indonesian. In Guantánamo since September 2006

Accused of being behind the October 2002 Bali bombings that killed more than 200 people, after being recruited to jihadism at a mosque in Malaysia. Planned strikes against UK and US embassies in Cambodia. Captured in Thailand in 2003. Allegedly involved in al-Qaida’s “biological weapons programme”

Abu Faraj al-Libi
Libyan. In Guantánamo since September 2006

Promoted to be operational chief of al-Qaida in both Afghanistan and Iraq, after capture of 'KSM' (Khalid Sheikh Mohammed). Captured by Pakistan in 2005. Planned to assassinate President Musharraf of Pakistan. “Has knowledge of al-Qaida possibly possessing a nuclear bomb.”

Ramzi bin al-Shibh
Yemeni. In Guantánamo since September 2006

The alleged co-ordinator of the entire 9/11 plot from a base in Germany, who was picked up by Pakistan in a raid on a house in Karachi in 2002. Claimed to have also planned with Khalid Sheikh Mohammed in June 2002 to crash a hijacked plane into Heathrow airport, London

Majid Khan
Pakistani. In Guantánamo since September 2006

Allegedly tasked by 'KSM' to poison water reservoirs and blow up multiple fuel stations on the US mainland 'as well as a project targeting nuclear reactors'. He was termed a 'willing suicide operative' who delivered funds for a 2003 Marriott hotel bombing in Jakarta and had probably been arrested in Pakistan through his links with 'KSM'

Mohd Farik Bin Amin
Malaysian, detained in Guantánamo since September 2006

Arrested leaving a bookstore in Thailand in 2003, he is called a senior al-Qaida operative who swore an oath of allegiance to Osama bin Laden. Targeted the UK embassy in Cambodia and helped with an abortive 'west coast airliners plot' in the US to crash a plane into 'the tallest building in California'. Captured computer allegedly contained images of the Space Needle in Seattle and bomb diagrams. Trained in camps in Afganistan. Allegedly tried to buy a surface-to-air missile

Bashir Bin Lap
Malaysian, detained in Guantánamo since September 2006

Al-Qaida member who tried to learn to fly, cased Israeli flights out of Bangkok airport and was due to lead a three-man suicide team in KSM’s disrupted 'west coast airliners' hijacking plot. Former member of Malaysian military, trained with al-Qaida in Afghanistan, cased the UK embassy in Kuala Lumpur and was captured in Thailand in 2003. 'He thought it would be a good idea to attack world sporting events, such as soccer matches, because many westerners are generally in attendance ... He would not be worried about accidentally killing Muslims during such an attack, because any Muslims attending such a sinful event were not pious Muslims'

Khalid Sheikh Mohammed
Pakistani, detained in Guantánamo since September 2006.

The alleged mastermind behind the attacks of 11 September 2001, he is said by US forces to have 'described himself as the head of al-Qaida’s military committee'. His file alleges he planned the destruction of the Brooklyn Bridge, the collapse of a Chicago apartment block and destruction of a US hotel or fuel station as follow-ups to the September 2001 attacks. Repeatedly waterboarded in CIA detention prior to his transfer. He is one of 16 'high-value' detainees transferred to Guantánamo to stand trial

Abd al-Rahim Hussein Muhammad Abdah al-Nashiri
Yemeni, detained in Guantánamo since September 2006

Believed by US forces to be 'one of the highest-ranking, most skilled and dangerous al-Qaida operatives captured to date', al-Nashiri is allegedly a key Bin Laden aide. His file details an alleged plot to attack a UK base on the Gibraltar – with the target chosen after being featured on a 'news documentary'. His notes stress excellent contacts with 'Yemeni tribes and Yemeni security ­services' which were used to provide documents and cover for extremists

Haji Hamidullah
Afghani detained in Guantánamo since November 2003

Hamidullah’s file calls him not only a senior leader of anti-coalition militias in Afghanistan, but also an Iranian intelligence agent. Hamidullah is described as having been imprisoned by the Taliban before securing his escape and fleeing to Iran – working as a baker for four months – then returning as an Iranian agent and channeling Iranian money to anti-coalition groups. His intelligence assessment concludes: 'Detainee probably has information on Russian and Iranian support to HIG and the Taliban efforts against the Karzai Afghan government'

Maad al-Qahtani
Saudi Arabian, detained in Guantánamo since ­February 2002

The alleged intended '20th hijacker' can never stand trial after the Bush administration admitted torture in 2008. He remains in Guantánamo where officials recommend he is held indefinitely. Qahtani’s file describes his attempted entry into the US from the UK in 2001, before the attacks. Qahtani successfully entered the UK but failed to gain entry to the US as officials noted he had purchased no return ticket. His file notes US forces believe Qahtani 'likely has information on al-Qaida’s activities regarding the 11 September 2001 attacks which has not been divulged, such as other operatives who were unable, but intended, to participate'

Facts - Did you know?

Only the most dedicated, well-trained recruits are allowed to become full al Qaeda members. Osama bin Laden hand-picked the operatives used to hijack U.S. planes in the 9/11 attack.

In 2002 and 2003 no successful attacks occurred on U.S. soil but attacks against U.S. interests worldwide continued. In 2002 of all anti-U.S. attacks carried out by various terrorist organizations, the most—forty-six—occurred in Latin America followed by sixteen in the Middle East and ten in Asia. The type of facilities targeted most were U.S. businesses. Most terrorist threats and attacks involved bombings.
Each year the U.S. State Department compiles a list of Foreign Terrorist Organizations known as FTOs. Compiled since 1997, the list took on a new sense of urgency since 9/11. In 2004 the list included thirty-six terrorist organizations. The U.S. government may freeze any FTO assets in U.S. financial institutions, may deny entry of a FTO member into the United States, and may prosecute any U.S. citizen or person in the United States who supports an FTO in any way.

• Reference/Source: staroba.my

Top 10 Awesome Restaurants of the Philippines

WHAT makes a restaurant awesome? Some would say great food and the right ambiance. “Great food” is subjective and varies with each person’s experience and background, however. To be considered awesome, a restaurant has to take the overall dining experience to a higher level. That means food that leaves an indelible mark on your taste buds and imprints lasting memories in your mind in an ambiance that carves out a special place in the heart to share with other people.

Every restaurant in this list has been carefully chosen. Each serves gourmet food with the freshest ingredients, and combines nature elements, artifacts or a sense of history in its atmosphere. Simply put, these restaurants have a story to tell that is spread via word-of-mouth. I can proudly say that these restaurants are found ONLY in the Philippines.

Kubli Springs @ Kinabuhayan Café, Dolores, Quezon

The road to Kubli Springs is literally the road less traveled, and when you do get on it, you’ll be glad you decided against taking your sedan car. Flashlights, candles, mobile phones, and the moon are the only sources of light. Occasionally, they may put up Christmas lights connected to a portable battery source to make the place special. You’ll find yourself in the middle of a forest, surrounded by boulders, a spring at your feet and a clear starlit sky overhead. You sit on rocks and makeshift benches, savoring the aroma of steak being grilled on the spot. Ah, this is the perfect time to play the acoustic guitar for a sing-along with the barkada (gang) without fear of disturbing anyone.

For P500 per person, you get fresh salad with flowers, grilled steak, Jay’s special rice, and a fruit platter. The meal ends with lambanog and a special roast of barako coffee. For drinking, there’s fresh mineral water from the mountains. You’d wish the night would never end.

Antonio’s in Tagaytay

Dining at Antonio’s is like entering a magical portal to a world where any food you choose is worth a rave. The service is that of a six-star hotel where you need not worry about a thing. Even going to the restroom is a chance to appreciate nature and its beauty. The positive energy in the place encourages conversation and bears witness to thousands of memorable life stories.

You won’t mind waiting for your food because you know it’s being prepared to perfection. The real flavor of the meat and other ingredients stands out without the sauce overpowering the taste. Any wine selection seems to match the food you order. My favorite in Antonio’s includes the Salad with Foie Gras, the steaks, sea bass and the soufflé dessert. I envision our silver wedding anniversary at this place because of the food, service and its enchanting garden.

Ugu’s Pottery Garden Restaurant, Tiaong, Quezon

It remains a secret place in Tiaong because Ugu never advertises and there are no road signs. Even the neighbors don’t realize that such a place exists. The whole of Ugu’s Pottery Garden Restaurant is a labor of love, with the entire family designing everything from the huts, the garden layout, the pottery and the food concept.

Ugu is known for such dishes as Kulawo and Lato. Kulawo is charcoal-grilled banana heart with a smoky flavor that tastes like tuna, while lato is seaweed in vinegar. Both are traditional Filipino dishes you seldom find in Metro Manila. It’s home-cooked Filipino food served on Ugu’s signature pottery. I do hope it remains a secret.

Isla Naburot, Guimaras

Isla Naburot resort is like wine—the older it gets, the more exotic it becomes. Electricity is supplied by solar panels that can only support the incandescent bulbs in the room. Even mobile phones seem superfluous as there are no charging stations nearby. Your itinerary revolves around swimming in the clear beach, playing sungka and spending quality time with the family.

The main attraction is doing nothing and eating gourmet Filipino dishes prepared the traditional way. Fresh seafood is patiently grilled to lock in their natural juices. Meals are served with home made sinamak vinegar. Fruits are abundant, especially the famous Guimaras mangoes. The taste of the food is enhanced by the open air environment. It’s a foodie heaven I can’t wait to go back next summer.

La Cocina de Tita Moning, Manila

As you enter the gates of this old mansion, you can’t help but feel transported to a different era inhabited by the Old Rich. You are welcomed with drinks and pica-pica in the patio, before being given a mini-tour of the place, where antiques and turn-of-the-century design is evident in the living room, bedroom and especially the bathroom.

It’s a treat to enjoy Spanish food cooked from recipes handed down from generations. You leave La Cocina raving about its paella and its bread pudding. The former could rival the paellas in Manila’s Spanish restaurants. The latter tastes like bread leche flan that melts in your mouth. The service is slow but sure. What’s important is that they serve you with a smile and exert every effort to make the experience memorable. Our La Cocina experience was way back January 2005, but I’ve never forgotten it since.

Kusina Salud, San Pablo, Laguna

We need to give credit to Kusina Salud for making the Viaje del Sol travel route popular. It’s the “Sonya’s Garden” of San Pablo, Laguna but even better because of its wide selection of gourmet dishes. Occasionally, you can chat with Nina and Chef Paul Poblador about the story of Kusina Salud. The place seems to smile back at the camera, with its odd pieces of furniture and accessories fitting harmoniously with styles from other eras.

The best time is breakfast; go at 9 a.m. and use the place as your jump-off point to explore Laguna and Quezon. I long for the hamonado- style longganisa, fried adobo flakes and bangus (milkfish) belly for breakfast. Buffets are served on special occasions but I still prefer to order from the ala carte menu. Massage service is available and would be perfect if you make this your last stop before heading back to Manila.

Vieux Chalet, Antipolo

Operating for more than 20 years now, Vieux Chalet remains a mysterious place. The house cum restaurant on top of a hill in Antipolo rewards diners with an awesome view of Manila, especially at night.

What keeps me going back to this place is the passion with which Susan Hassig prepares the food. You’ll never forget the taste of the homemade pasta, the freshly baked bread and the varieties of homegrown cheese. Some people go to Vieux Chalet to taste its refreshing lemon-grass drink or to indulge in its version of the Osso Bucco. This is our favorite hangout if we want to escape and eat good gourmet food.

Claude Tayag’s Bale Dutung, Pampanga

You’ve never really tasted Pampanga cuisine until you’ve dined in Claude Tayag’s Bale Dutung house. This is perfect for those long lunches with friends when you don’t even notice the hours passing by. Diners are greeted with frozen baby cologne-scented towels and steamed peanuts that bring back memories of childhood. The entire house is a showroom for Claude Tayag’s creative and artistic brilliance.

Mr. and Mrs. Claude Tayag will serve you personally with simple Kapampangan dishes artistically presented. They will also entertain you with the history of Bale Dutung. My favorite dishes here include the catfish with buro (fermented fish) and green mustasa (mustard leaves), and Pampanga’s version of the paella. The meal ends with a simple Paradiso dessert made of smoked ube, camote and macapuno on sweet carabao milk pastillas. After the meal it’s so nice to just laze around the house and chat up Claude Tayag before saying goodbye.

Charley’s in Lipa, Batangas

I fell in love with the place after seeing the beautiful horses at Leviste’s Equestrian Farm in Lipa. Till then, I’d seen only the tired horses in Baguio and Tagaytay and never imagined seeing such thoroughbreds on Philippine soil. Lunch or dinner is courtesy of Les Roche-trained chef Popit de Leon who’s passionate about cooking his foodie creations either in his Makati condo or in Charley’s on weekends. Popit uses fresh herbs from Charley’s garden in all food served at the farm. Diners might even get a personal tour of the farm with Charley herself after the meal.

Unfortunately, the place recently closed its doors to out-of-town diners. Popit now cooks exclusively in his Makati condo. This is a simple tribute and thank you for becoming part of our foodie memories, accompanied by a wish that the place opens its doors again.

Entalula Island, El Nido, Palawan

Imagine having an exclusive picnic with gourmet food on a white-sand island far better than Boracay. Entalula Island in El Nido is definitely a bit of paradise that you can enjoy privately for lunch or dinner. Everything is set up for you, and you can request exactly the food you like. Your imagination sets the limit on how creative you want the experience to be.

It is definitely worth saving up for and reason enough to go back to El Nido resorts. When you book an El Nido vacation, make sure to reserve the island for your lunch or dinner date. Next time, I’ll have dinner here with just my wife and lay down after in the pristine sands with limestone cliffs as backdrop.

• Reference/Source: inquirer.net By Anton Diaz

Top 10 of 20 Best Trips of 2011

Looking for an out-of-the-ordinary destination for your next vacation? Check out these 20 top trips, hand-picked by National Geographic Traveler editors as the best of 2011. Where do you want to go this year? Share your travel plans—real or ideal—below.

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Nearly half of Mongolia’s three million residents are nomads, and most of the rest live in Ulaanbaatar—the country's capital and largest city. The cultural, economic, and transportation hub on the Tuul River is the starting point for two-humped Bactrian camel treks and other exotic Gobi desert expeditions, but its ten museums, close proximity to national parks, and collection of imperial palaces and Buddhist monasteries qualify Ulaanbaatar as a destination rather than way station.
Wander through the Narantuul, a 2,500-vendor, open-air market; visit Gandan Monastery—Mongolia’s largest functioning Buddhist monastery—and the adjoining Megjid Janraisig and Kalachakra Temples; and view Stone and Bronze Age artifacts, sacred relics, and fossilized dinosaur bones and eggs found in the Gobi at the National and Natural History Museums. During the July 11-13 National Holiday, Ulaanbaatar hosts the nation’s largest Naadam Festival, a legendary cultural celebration featuring wrestling, archery and cross-country horse racing competitions, plus traditional costumes and dance.

Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

Croatia's 1,104-mile (1,776-kilometer) island-speckled Adriatic coast is a popular playground for sea kayakers, sailors, kite surfers, and divers. Additional water wonders await those willing to travel inland (a four-hour bus ride from the coast) to the mountainous, eastern Plitvice Lakes region, site of Croatia’s first and largest national park.

Nature's color wheel is in constant motion at 114-square-mile (296-square-kilometer) Plitvice Lakes National Park (above) where 16 terraced lakes, formed by natural travertine dams, change hues throughout the day from bright turquoise to gray depending on the angle of the sun's rays and mineral makeup of the water. Well-maintained wooden boardwalks and trails link the lakes to the park’s centerpiece cascades, the largest of which—Big Waterfall—plummets 256 feet (78 meters) into the valley below. Home to abundant wildlife, including 261 species of birds, the walker-friendly park is divided into Upper and Lower Lakes sections bridged by the Lake Kozjak ferry.

Sardinia, Italy

Glitterati flock by the yachtful to Sardinia’s serpentine northern Gallura coast, where exclusive Porto Cervo and Costa Smeralda are two favorite summer playgrounds. While a winding coastal drive—perfect for a red Ferrari roadster—offers dramatic Mediterranean views and a powerful adrenaline rush, the real rock stars of Italy’s second-largest island are the actual rocks, or more precisely, the prehistoric stone dwellings found in the mountainous interior.

Sardinia is home to more than 7,000 stone nuraghi towers, Bronze Age castles built between 1600 and 1100 B.C. Best known is Nuraghe Santu Antine near Torralba, a well-preserved nuraghic royal palace surrounded by the eerie remnants of a once thriving nuraghic village. To experience modern village life on an island where sheep outnumber humans by nearly three to one, check into Hotel Su Gologone in Oliena, where hearty guests can sign up to shadow a local shepherd for the day.

Tasmania

In Australia’s smallest state, remote rain forests, secluded beaches, and more than 200 vineyards are accessible by foot. Tasmania’s mild, maritime climate and compact size (comparable to West Virginia) make this heart-shaped island 150 miles (240 kilometers) off the Australian mainland a year-round destination for walkers and hikers of all ages, interests, and fitness levels.

Great Walks Tasmania features seven distinct, guided walking tours ranging from the moderate 14- to 18-mile (23- to 30-kilometer) Bay of Fires wilderness trek along the coastal rim of Mount William National Park to the gentler 12- to 28-mile (20- to 45-kilometer) gourmand’s ramble through Maria Island’s eucalyptus forest and pristine beaches. In 2011, Tasmania hosts the biennial Ten Days on the Island international arts celebration from March 25 to April 3, an event that features nearly 500 artists in 111 venues.

Fjord Norway

Western Norway, known as Fjord Norway, is home to the world’s largest concentration of the saltwater-filled, glaciated valleys. The iconic destination encompasses 1,646 miles (2,650 kilometers) of pristine coastline, glaciers, mountains, and cascading waterfalls, including the 2,148-foot (655-meter) Mardalsfossen, the world’s fourth highest. The region’s six National Tourist Routes offer easy driving access to bouldering, ice climbing, glacier walking, base jumping, caving, and year-round skiing.

Four UNESCO World Heritage sites are located here, including the deep-blue Geirangerfjord (above), considered one of the world’s most unspoiled fjords. Fjords are best experienced from water level, so hop a ferry, book a cruise, or rent a kayak for unobstructed views of the surrounding snow-covered peaks, steep mountainsides, and abundant wildlife. The midnight sun in June and July brings near round-the-clock daylight and the most visitors. Days are shorter in May and September, but the lighter tourist traffic makes for easy meandering from Kristiansand to Trondheim along the Fjord Coast Route.

Uruguay

A laid-back vibe, day trip-friendly dimensions (only 68,036 square miles/176,215 square kilometers), and lively beach scene make Uruguay a favorite getaway for the South American jet set.

The capital city, Montevideo, pulses to the rhythm of candombe, the thunderous Afro-Uruguayan, three-drum sound fueling spontaneous street parades, as well as the all-night Desfile de las Llamadas, the featured event of Montevideo Carnaval. In southwestern Uruguay, stroll the winding, cobblestone streets of Colonia del Sacramento’s 17th-century historic district—a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s only a 50-minute high-speed ferry ride from Buenos Aires—to explore the country’s Portuguese roots. Go west to the hilly interior to play gaucho at a luxury dude ranch or a more traditional working estancia, where tourists can trade labor for trail time. For sun and surf, hit the beaches of Punta del Este, the narrow peninsula dividing the waters of the Rio de la Plata and the Atlantic Ocean.

Shimla, India

Visiting Shimla is equal parts journey and destination. For optimal snow-clad Himalayan views, chug back in time on the narrow-gauge Kalka Shimla Railway (above), one of three Indian lines on the World Heritage List. It passes through 102 tunnels, across 864 bridges, and up 4,659 feet (1,420 meters) to the Shimla Hill station in northern Himachal Pradesh. Colonialists built the engineering marvel in the late 19th century to service the Shimla Highlands, an escape for the British from the summer heat.

The colonial influence endures in Shimla’s architecture and ambience, particularly along the Mall, a bustling pedestrian marketplace and cultural hub featuring shops, restaurants, and the 123-year-old, neo-Gothic Gaiety Theatre renovated in 2009. Guided walking tours around Shimla and the surrounding seven hills include stops at historic temples, churches, palaces, and mansions, including the Viceregal Lodge, a baronial-style estate built high on Observatory Hill as a tribute to the empire.

Messinia Region, Greece

Widely known for its Kalamata olives—Messinia produces about 55,000 tons of mainly cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil annually—this road-less-trampled region on the southwest Peloponnesian coast features numerous World Heritage List archaeological sites, including Olympia, Mystras, and the Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae.

Sun-drenched hills and valleys are dotted with stone houses, vaulted tombs from the Mycenaean era, Byzantine churches, and medieval castles (such as the castle of Methoni, above). Retreat to secluded bays, remote beaches, and protected lagoons, including Gialova, Greece’s southernmost major wetland and home to more than 270 bird species.

The latest chapter in Messinia’s 4,500-year history is being crafted by international shipping magnate Captain Vassilis Constantakopoulos, the visionary behind Costa Navarino, an energy-conscious resort that aims to be powered entirely by renewable resources. The luxury destination’s Navarino Dunes on the Ionian Sea opened in 2010. Initial sustainable elements include “living roofs” planted with native fauna and the world’s first large-scale geothermal heating and cooling installed beneath a golf course.

Dominica

A lack of white sandy beaches and an overabundance of rainfall keep this mountainous island of tropical rain forests off typical Caribbean vacation itineraries—a plus for adventure seekers.

Perpetual geothermal and volcanic activity—there are seven active volcanoes—make 285-square-mile (739-square-kilometer) Dominica, located between Guadeloupe and Martinique, a paradise in progress. Venture into the rugged landscape Spiderman-style on an Extreme Dominica canyoneering tour, which takes visitors rappelling down pristine waterfalls, deep gorges, and volcanic bedrock canyons. The seven-mile round-trip hike from Titou Gorge to Boiling Lake, a vapor-covered cauldron that reaches 198º Fahrenheit (92º Celsius), is strenuous but worth the panoramic Caribbean views from atop 3,000-foot (914-meter) Morne Nicholls, as well as the chance to explore the Valley of Desolation’s brightly colored sulfur springs, mini-geysers, and bubbling mud pools. Recharge at the locally built and staffed Jungle Bay Resort & Spa. The 55-acre (22-hectare) tropical retreat features 35 secluded, hardwood cottages perched high atop posts beneath the jungle canopy.

Namibia

Southern Africa’s youngest nation is well known for its vast windswept deserts—the inland Kalahari and the coastal Namib—so it’s no wonder that the country’s first conservation area (established in 1907) is named for the “place of dry water.”

Etosha National Park is a wildlife sanctuary in far northern Namibia centered on Etosha Pan, a 75-mile-long (120-kilometer-long) mineral lakebed. During the June to November dry season, large numbers of elephants, giraffes, black rhinos, lions, and other game are drawn to the park’s natural and manmade watering holes. During the rains, huge numbers of flamingos arrive to feed and breed. In addition to unsurpassed big game viewing, the nearly 8,494-square-mile (22,000-square-kilometer) preserve includes numerous lodging options ranging from rustic guest farms to luxury retreats. For more intimate game viewing, head about two hours south to Mundulea Nature Reserve. Guests at the privately owned nature reserve in the Otavi Mountains encounter antelopes, leopards, hyenas, and other resident game on daylong, guided bush treks.

The 11-20 are:

Laos | Kodiak Island, Alaska | Scottish Highlands | Tunisia | Palawan, Philippines | Black Sea Coast, Crimea | Gaspé Peninsula, Quebec | Shikoku, Japan | Papua New Guinea | Kurdistan, Iraq

• Reference/Source: nationalgeographic.com

Top 10 Best Value Destinations for 2011 (lonelyplanet)

Worried that the economy might put a crimp in your travel plans next year? Never fear: travel doesn’t have to break the bank. Your currency may be depressed, but that doesn’t mean you have to be; there are still many destinations around the world that can be enjoyed on the cheap. If you let the global economic ups-and-downs work to your advantage, adopt some personal austerity measures in pricier destinations, and head towards up-and-coming destinations, you can stay on the road longer for less.

Fresh from Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2011, we bring you this bargainous bounty of 10 budget-friendly destinations where you can get the most bang for your buck.

1.Bangladesh

This subcontinental treat might just be the cheapest place on earth to travel. Bangladesh offers marvellous meals for under US$1, a mid-range hotel room for less than 10 times that. This means that anyone who isn’t a masochist goes up a price bracket or two. You’ll pay a little more to get around the Sunderbans National Park on a tiger-spotting tour – US$150 or thereabouts – but it’s still peanuts, even compared to what you pay next door in India.

Bangladesh is almost disgracefully under-visited. Here, paddleboat is one of the main forms of transport and you can trek, canoe and even surf to your heart’s content with some of the world’s friendliest people for company. The Rocket is Bangladesh’s most famous ferry, running daily between the capital Dhaka and Khulna. First-class river cruising for 27 hours will cost US$15.

2. Nicaragua

As other Central American destinations inflate prices with an influx of travellers, there are still a few good value delights to be found in the region. Nicaragua is somewhere where the careful traveller can get by spending US$15 a day, and midrange comforts can be had for less than double that amount. What you get for your money is nothing short of spectacular: hammock-hanging opportunities on the mythically unspoilt Corn Islands, bar-hopping and live music in colonial León and Granada, and volcano trekking on the Isla de Ometepe. Paying departure tax when flying out of Nicaragua may be the single most expensive thing you do at US$32, and this is usually already included in the price of your ticket.

3. Washington, DC

Lincoln Memorial: free. National Air and Space Museum: free. Capitol: free. Library of Congress: free. White House and State Department: tough to get in, but free. Get the picture? Washington is a city packed with iconic things to do and very few of them ask for an entry fee. If you’re happy to walk and bring your own lunch bag, you can absorb centuries of American history, politics and culture without having to so much as touch a dollar bill all day. DC’s Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens is the only national park in the USA devoted to water plants. It’s free.

4. Paris

The French capital is never going to win any awards for cheapness, but here’s a winning formula that anyone can afford. First, you need a Swiss Army knife. Then stroll into a boulangerie – every neighbourhood has several – and buy a freshly baked baguette for €1 (US$1.35) or thereabouts. Follow your nose to your next stop, a fromagerie, and grab a fist-sized hunk of cheese. Lastly, grab a bottle of wine, nothing fancy, and head for the banks of the Seine opposite Notre Dame or the garden adjacent to Pont Neuf on a sunny day, preferably with a friend or loved one. Zut alors – a Parisian dining experience for under €10 (US$13.50) per person that any local would declare formidable! You’ll find everything for a picnic on Rue Montorgueil in the 2nd arrondissement.

5. Namibia

Botswana wants big spenders only and South Africa’s not the deal it once was, so southern Africa bargain hunters should head for Namibia. Well set-up for backpackers, this is still a territory of US$50 or less a day if you’re careful, with an excellent network of local minibuses and tours aimed at budget travellers to go to places public transport won’t. And if you go up a price bracket you’ll eat and sleep well in excellent-value midrange options that bring South Africans flocking over the border year after year. Admission to the Cape Cross Seal Reserve on the Skeleton Coast costs a mere US$3 per person.

6. Philippines

The Philippines may be just about to rudely shove Thailand off the ‘best cheap beaches’ perch it’s occupied for the best part of two decades. While travellers argue long and hard about which is cheaper, there’s no denying Thailand is more popular. For those who desire nothing more than to find great, undiscovered beaches, surf the odd wave and eat unique, distinctive food for under US$20 a day, the Philippines has the edge. Add in the possibility of beach camping along the Zambales Coast or in the Bacuit Archipelago and you’ve got the recipe for timeless island hopping that suits any budget. Ferries link many idyllic destinations in the Philippines. Expect to pay around US$5 for each hour you’re on the water.

7. Argentina

The Argentine peso is the currency that keeps on giving. In the middle of the last decade, incredulous visitors regularly queried bills for being too cheap after feasting on fine steak and red wine. While not quite the bargain it was during those years, Argentina still offers a terrific deal. Characterful mid-range hotels start at around AR$180 (US$46) per night in Buenos Aires and Patagonia, and half that in other places. Argentina’s gourmet eating houses usually won’t charge more than US$30 a head and you can enjoy wonderful meals on much less. Best of all, you get great quality food, wine, lodging and transport throughout Argentina for your money.

Bounce up and down with some of Buenos Aires’ more raucous citizens at a fútbol (soccer) match. Terrace tickets for Boca Juniors, River Plate and others cost from AR$14 (US$3.60).

8. Naples

Italy: not cheap. Even a slice of pizza can seem like lousy value if you’ve come from a part of the world that uses a currency that’s slumped against the euro. Thank heavens then for Naples. Here’s one Italian city that prefers food that’s fresh, simple and good value. You can dine brilliantly on the city’s spectacular street food alone. Naples eschews budget-blasting frills in favour of small and simple B&Bs charging around €75 (US$100) per night. Best of all, Naples is a city full of life being lived for its own sake, with few of the tourist hordes who descend on other Italian classics further north.

The ferry from Naples to the idyllic island of Capri, one of Italy’s classic journeys, costs a mere €10.50 (US$14) with Caremar.

9. Ukraine

Eastern Europe isn’t the US50c-a-beer haven for bargain hunters it once was, but good deals are still available. OK,
mid-range hotels can be pricey, especially in the capital, Kyiv, but good budget options in Lviv and Odesa are available for less than US$50. Once on the ground you’ll find your funds go a long way. Public transport is fantastic value, with a train between Kyiv and the lovely city of Lviv costing less than US$10, and a tram ride from the station into town a hundredth of that. If you know where to look, food, beer and coffee can be really very cheap.

One of Ukraine’s top sights is the immense and moving Lychakiv Cemetery in Lviv; it includes the final resting place of national poet Ivan Franko and thousands of dramatic tombstones. You get hours of fascinating wandering for less than US$1.

10. Syria

While some neighbouring countries up the entry costs to ancient sites, Syria remains an excellent-value place to travel. As you might expect, there are superb street shwarma (sandwiches), felafel and eye-tightening qahwa (coffee) available for small change. A ride between Aleppo and Damascus won’t touch US$5, and a daily budget of US$50 will get you well into the mid-range bracket. Best of all, the delights of the Old City of Damascus and the souq at Aleppo are free. If you get locked into a tussle with a carpet merchant in the latter, though, you’re on your own.

The Crusader Castle of Crac des Chevaliers, one of the world’s great castles, charges around US$3.50 entry.

• Reference/Source: lonelyplanet.com

Top 10 Places or Countries That Miss Christmas Season

Despite the fact that most of us celebrate Chrismas with all of its pleasures and gift, there are some places that do miss all of the Christmas spirit of Santa Claus and his reindeer. The thing is that they are either prohibited to celebrate it or do not have it as a public holiday. See the list of the sadest countries during the Christmas holidays.

1.Japan

Certainly in Tokyo you find a giant robotic Santa, but most likely he will only hint at the classic Christmas in this country. Holiday connected with the infant Jesus, there does not exist as the country is not Christian. But the Japanese love to have fun twisted it in his own way, actually turning it into a … Valentine’s Day!.Just imagine a Valentine Santa. Doesn’t it sound funny.
The most popular sweet for  December 24 becomes a huge cake that every self-respecting man presents the woman he loves. Lovers must go to a restaurant, and children are not left alone but rather with gifts received- toys and candy. It is also considered fashionable to rent a room in an expensive hotel and spend a romantic night over there.
In addition, the bustle of the shops give Japanese a custom to give gifts to each other at the end of the year. To do so, even there is a special industry: in the store it is enough to reach the shelf, where we can find presents laid of various amounts, so you choose the one that is of your desired sum and content, to fill in a form with the recipient’s address and pay for purchases at the checkout. The rest will be done by the  store: putting the gift in a beautiful paper, making a card and delivering to the recepient.

2.Saudi Arabia

If you like the  story of Grinch who stole Christmas, and always wanted to ban the celebration, go to Saudi Arabia as its one of the best places to do so. In the most conservative Muslim country of the world the birth of baby Jesus is not celebrated, and sometimes persecute those who try to do it. The religious police periodically withdraws from stores thematic holidays greeting cards, and customs at the airport – Christmas ornaments. It sounds so aweful, isn’t it?
The denial of any other religions in the country comes to the point that even aircraft are prohibited from flying over Mecca. For the simple reason that the shadow of the liner has a cross shape and fell to Kabbah, can defile it, so this sounds to be such a pity for the Christian popularity of the country which is a minority.

3.Algeria

Well, the flag of the country which has a moon and a star on it speaks up of itself.Those who want quiet Christmas meet in Algeria, do not pursue, but in the country, 99% of which adhere to Islam, this holiday is celebrated not accepted and some of it may still seem like an insult to Islam. For example, when a couple of years ago, reindeer, harnessed to a sleigh, carrying a Santa Claus, suddenly appeared on the main street of the Algerian capital, some passers-by a desire to pounce on the masks with his fists. Although the alleged eyewitnesses, in recent years in the country have become very popular Christmas cookies, and the only Christian in the parish of the country, even spend the festive liturgy. But other signs of Christmas here to search is not worth it and it’s better not to organize something as it might be very dangerous.

4.Iran

Despite the fact that the Iranian streets still are caught indecently dressed women, and along with the men who dared to something to stand out from the crowd, religious taboos in the country is not as strong as it is expected to be. In some places  they even arrange  “Christmas” sales, well of course the store managers explain it with the fact of the end of the year.
Typical picture is a showcase of expensive clothes shores, where there are mannequins in traditional hijab, but right next to it is a hug amount of  sparkling Christmas tree lights. Perhaps this is due to the fact that it was from Persia, two thousand years ago, that 3 Wisemen came to welcome the birth of blessed son, and therefore completely ignoring the holiday does not work.

5.Thailand

Once in Thailand, you are likely to simply forget that this is the time for Christmas, and at the same time  New Year. It is difficult to think about the Christmas trea and Santa Claus, when the temperature is increasing on the  street up to  30 degrees, and instead of snowing outside the window sparkles warm emerald sea.
Of course, the hotels always organize a special dinner, but if you go to the city, it turns out that it lives the usual bustling about Christmas and nobody thinks about it. However, Thais are not always averse  of celebrating, even the public holidays here are 14, almost twice as much as in some of the countries. So, for example, the local schoosl may be visited by elephants, dressed in red and white caps, and make a presentation to the distribution of gifts. And in Bangkok, you can admire the Santa made of condoms, which is not the first year to be presented next to the entrance of one of the restaurants as a symbol of the fight against AIDS.

6.Nepal

If the tourist part of India at Christmas is  all shining with  the glittering garlands, and the windows are  decorated with small Christmas trees, then in neighboring Nepal on a holiday  there’s nothing to remind anyone about the Christmas spirit present here  except of the date on your mobile phone. At 12 o’clock at night in the city will be  as dark and quiet as nowhere else in the world, and local residents will sleep, not even knowing that in many countries at this time the street lights are burning and there is a flowing crowd of many thousands of people. The country inhabitants even travel to the neighboring countries to take part in glamorous parties of the Christmas.

7.Turkey

As in many Muslim countries, Turkey is not widely spread custom to meet Christmas, but Turks are rather religiously tolerant. The country is hosting a lot of Christian population to meet Christmas in some of their resort places.  There are many cases where the first Muslim neighbors graciously accept from Christian neighbors Easter eggs, and then those same neighbors are Christians happily eat rahat delight at the Diabetes Day, which marks the end of Ramadan.
But, according to recent studies of Turkish scholars, the tradition of prank up the tree just came from ancestors of the Turks. True, they decked it on 22 December, the winter solstice, which is esteemed by them as a “feast of rebirth. A Christmas tree is, in turn, was considered a “tree of life”.

8.North Korea

It also happens that the policy is stronger than religion and everything that is happening in that country is all controlled by the police. For example, in North Korea the only person to celebrate Christmas is the great secrecy, because the only permissible holidays are gone birthday of Kim Il Sung and now Kim Jong Il’s ruling.  So you just cannot have any kind of parties for that day to be associated with any kind of Christmas traditions.Yes, and calendar here is not on the birth of Christ, but from the birth of Kim Il Sung. However, the chance to get a tourist in Korea is very small. And this year the country is, in principle, closed its borders from November to mid January.

9.China

Christmas in China is not officially celebrated, but the tradition to decorate anything and everything on the eve of the festival has established itself here as a presentation of the year.  Though even the New Year celebrated here is different from the one celebrated in Western countries. Even palm trees  are getting decorated and waiters of the  restaurants and shops sellers often put on the red and white caps. What is surprising, because in that country is more than half of Christmas toys for the whole world. And of course, such an abundance, combined with a love of Chinese to bright colors, could not affect the local traditions.

10.Any tropical island

And you can just rent any suitable tropical island or visit one of them if the financial afford allow you to do so. Proposals, launched with about 10 000 dollars per week are good enough. Oh, this is the place where Santa Claus with his reindeer, presents and other Christmas tinsel just does not get to.

• Reference/Source: travelvivi.com by by L.K.

Top 10 Largest Countries in Europe

List of Top 10 Largest European Countries Listed in Descending Order by Maximum area Covered.

1. Russia is the largest European country that occupies 17,075,400 Square Kilometer (6,592,800 Square Miles).



2. Ukraine is the second largest country in the Europe that covers 603,628 Square Kilometer (233,090 Square Miles).



3. With 551,695 Square Kilometer (213,010 Square Mile) France is third largest country in Europe.



4. Spain Comes on fourth rank with 504,030 Square Kilometer (195,364 Square Mile).



5. Sweden holds fifth position with occupying 449,964 Square Kilometer (173,745 Square Mile).



6. Germany stands as a Sixth biggest European country with 357,021 Square Kilometer (137,847 Square Mile).



7. Finland covers 338,424 Square Kilometer (130,596 Square Mile) and hold position of Seventh largest country in Europe.



8. Norway, this eighth biggest European country occupies 385,252 Square Kilometer (148,746 Square Mile).



9. In the list of top 10 largest countries in Europe Poland ranks at number nine with 312,685 Square Kilometer (120,696.41 Square Mile).




10. Italy, this tenth largest Country of Europe Occupies 301,338 Square Kilometer (116,346 Square Mile).

• Reference/Source: worldrecordsnews.com

South Korea warship sinking: the top 10 conspiracy theories

Source: telegraph.co.uk | It is now two weeks since an international inquiry blamed North Korea for the sinking of the South Korean warship ROKS Cheonan with the loss of 46 lives.
An international team, comprising experts from South Korea, the US, Britain, Australia and Sweden produced parts of the tail section of a torpedo that matched captured blue prints of a CHT-02D torpedo being offered for export by Pyongyang.

The report concluded: "The evidence points overwhelmingly to the conclusion that the torpedo was fired by a North Korean submarine There is no other plausible explanation." However not everyone is convinced, including Russia and China, who say they want to review the evidence before they accept the findings.

In the interim, the web has spawned a host of theories to support North Korea's contention that the enquiry evidence was a "complete fabrication" aimed at further America's hegemonic agenda in the Asia-Pacific.

In no particular order, the top ten theories and unanswered questions on the sinking of the Cheonan are:

1. The torpedo parts found on the seabed matched those of a captured North Korean torpedo taken by South Korea seven years ago. In which case, the Cheonan was most likely sunk by a North Korean torpedo, but fired from a South Korean sub.

2. A team of US Navy Seals who had recently been involved in the joint US-South Korean Foal Eagle anti-submarine exercises, sunk the Cheonan using a magnetic 'rising mine' deployed on the sea bed. Another 'report' says it was a limpet mine. A third a US torpedo fired by accident. (see 3 below)

3. The US carried out the sinking (see 2 above) as a pretext to scare the Japanese into allowing them to keep their controversial military base on Okinawa which America says is essential for deploying marines to secure North Korean nuclear facilities in the event of war. Two weeks after the enquiry Japan duly caved in to US pressure on the issue. Draw your own conclusions.

4. The recovered sections of the torpedo which the inquiry said were dredged from the seabed where the Cheonan sunk were covered in barnacles and looked like it had been under water for months, if not years. Further evidence that the torpedo parts were a plant?

5. The tail section of the torpedo also contained a marking saying 'number one' in a North Korea script – the so-called 'smoking gun'. Isn't this just far too convenient to be true?

6. Immediately after the incident US and South Korea defence officials unanimously agreed the sinking was "an accident" and that no unusual North Korean ship, submarine or troop movements had been detected. Survivors from the Cheonan were also reported to have said their sonar and radar consoles had picked up no unusual activity before the sinking. But within a few weeks the officials had all changed their tune. Is it really plausible they could have been so wrong? Or did they agree to a US cover-up operation? (See 3 above)

7. The Cheonan was sunk in a friendly fire incident/accident/North Koean attack (take pick) which also sank a 6,000-tonne LA-class US submarine, the USS Colombia. This explains why a South Korean naval diver killed during the salvage operation was working a long way from the site of the sunken Cheonan – the so called 'third buoy' theory. (This theory, circulating in early May, took a direct hit when the Columbia showed up at its home port of Hawaii a few days later)

8. The Gulf of Tonkin theory. The US has form for this kind of "fabricated" naval incident (see 2 and 3 above) say theorists, referring back to the second Tonkin Gulf incident in which the US is alleged to have faked a naval clash with the North Vietnamese navy. This disputed action was the pretext for securing the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution that gave Lydon Johnson the legal cover he needed to launch a full-scale Vietnam War.

9. If the regime of Kim Jong-il did order the sinking of the Cheonan, perhaps to bolster his reputation with a near-starving populace, why hasn't he been crowing about it in public instead of issuing denials?

10. The entire episode is totally implausible. How likely is it that a clunky North Korean submarine was able to penetrate South Korea and US defences, evading all detection and then launching a successful torpedo attack before escaping, again undetected, back to base? Not very likely at all, say the conspirators.

Further reading (Advice: some of these best taken with large pinch of salt)

TOP 10 Other Things North Korea Can Do To Piss Off The World

Source: top10kid.com | So North Korea doesn’t like to be told what it can and can’t do. Neither do 5-year-olds. But then, 5-year-olds don’t have access to nuclear weapons so it’s okay to let them have their hissy-fits. It’s totally not okay for a grown country to be shooting off missiles like they’re a bunch of Mexicans with pistolas having a “Fiesta” on Cinco de Mayo. To help keep the world a safer place, these are my suggestions for the TOP 10 Other Things North Korea Can Do To Piss Off The World.

10. Naming of the Offspring

Lots of countries have rules when it comes to naming your children. Making it a rule that all children be named after racial and stereotypical insults of other races languages therefore causing unintentional political incorrectness whenever a child’s name is spoken aloud.

9. No Spoiler Alert

If North Korea really wanted to be dicks, they could just call live television conferences and then suddenly spoil everything from book endings to movie twists to season finales of popular TV shows that people haven’t yet watched on their DVRs.

8. Deportation

Bring The Kogi BBQ Truck back and only deliver in North Korea.

7. Legalize Pot

And totally Bogart it.

6. Be More Immature

“South Korea? More like South BORE-ea!” “U.S.A? What’s that stand for? U Suck Ass? LOL!!!1!!”

5. Flaming Dog Poop

The members of the U.N. Security Council are clearly a bunch of old farts with no sense of humor, so why not pull the classic prank of the “Flaming Bag of Dog Poop” on all of their doorsteps.

4. Confetti Missile

The reason everyone is so mad about these test launches is mostly because missiles are usually used to blow stuff up. If a missile did explode and nothing but confetti came out, people would have to at least pretend to be happy about it. Until they realize that stuff is a bitch to get out of carpet.

3. National Anthem

Change it to the FreeCreditReport.com theme.

2. A Name Change

Countries have changed their names in the past, but none of them have done it just to be a douchebag. North Korea could change their name to Awesometown or BetterThanYourCountry. Hell, they could just give it a symbol like Prince did if they really want to be an ass about it.

1. Psyche Out

Agree to all terms and treaties but then shout “Psyche!” every chance they get. (Wait…don’t they already do that?)
Actually, I think shooting off regular missiles is still the best way to go.