The Beautiful Beach of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Fernando de Noronha is a small volcanic island found a few hundred kilometres off the coast of Brazil. One feels like you’re in the middle of the tropical Atlantic here - volcanic rocks jut into the sky and the scenery is of cliffs, pounding waves and beautiful beaches. The beaches of Fernando de Noronha are dramatic and stunning, ranging from cliff backed coves to long beaches popular with surfers. Fernando de Noronha has some of Brazil’s best surfing, and also some of the best scuba diving in addition to the country’s best beaches. Much of the island is a National Park as it’s full of endemic birdlife, and many of the beaches are important turtle nesting sites. All in all there’s many reasons to visit Fernando de Noronha.

Five Night Romantic Vacation Package at Rosewood Little Dix Bay

Rosewood Little Dix Bay

Escape to the sunny British Virgin Islands in the Caribbean and stay at Rosewood Little Dix Bay with this romantic vacation package. The "Best of LDB: Five-Night Package for Two" includes full daily breakfast for two, welcome bottle of champagne, dinner for two at the Sugar Mill, dinner for two at the Pavilion, romantic torch-lit beach dinner for two, water taxi drop-off on secluded beach with picnic lunch, two 50-minute massages, one Classic Manicure & Pedicure, choice of Natural Neem Leaf Facial, Gentleman's Facial or Virgin Gorda Goat Milk & Honey Wrap, transfers to and from Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport in Tortola, tax and resort fee. 2010 romantic vacation package rates (for five nights), single/double, start at $4,500. Browse more romantic honeymoon vacation packages.

Romantic Getaway at Bora Bora Lagoon Resort

Bora Bora Lagoon Resort

A romantic getaway to Bora Bora Lagoon Resort is something of the ultimate island vacation fantasy. The resort offers several different accommodation options. Your only major choice on this romantic getaway is whether or not you want to have your bed next to the beach or over the water.

The 20 beach bungalows allow you to step off your private deck onto the sand and stroll to the lagoon. The 44 overwater bungalows allow you to step off your private deck right into the water. The best overwater bungalows are the 6 end of pontoon bungalows which have great views and are a little more private.

The beach bungalows start at around $600 per night, the overwater bungalows are approximately $790, and the end of pontoon bungalows are approximately $900 a night. A less expensive option would be the garden bungalows starting at $495 a night.

The Bora Bora Lagoon Resort offers two special romantic getaway services, the canoe breakfast and the motu private barbecue. The canoe breakfast is made to order, placed in a flower decorated outrigger canoe, and then rowed over to your bungalow. For the motu private barbecue you will have lunch prepared and served for you on your own private island, after which you can sit on the beach or swim in ocean.

There are many activities to choose from at the resort including: tennis, beach volleyball, and a 160' freshwater free-form pool. Scuba diving and snorkeling are both extraordinary and the resort offers scuba certification and introductory dives. Of course if you would rather sit back in a beach chair you can always feed the fish from the glass-topped coffee table in your overwater bungalow.

Family Vacations in Dominican Republic

You may be forgiven for thinking that a family vacations in Dominican Republic will offer no more than a chance to spend a week or two lounging on a perfect white sandy beach looking up at beautiful skies and listening to waves gently caressing the shore. This is what the brochures promote, and unless the entire family feels that this is how it wants to spend its vacation together, then you could easily overlook it and choose one of the other islands instead. Before you move on however, take another look at the Dominican Republic, there’s a lot more for a family beach vacation than at first meets the eye!

The temperature throughout the year averages between 28 and 31 degrees – although it can be cooler up in the mountain areas. There is humidity but breezes from the sea help to keep this from being too unbearable. The island’s rainy season usually lasts from May to October, with August and September also being the months that hurricanes are possible.

There are two “peak” tourist seasons to watch out for on the Dominican Republic, the first is between December and February, and the second between July and August. This means that if you can manage to book your family vacations in Dominican Republic sometime in March/April, you are likely to miss the both the main tourist groups, and the bad weather, and maybe even get yourself a “between season” bargain at the same time! Watch out for late Easter however as the week prior to Easter is known as Semana Santa and an extremely busy time for the island.

With a population of over 2.2 million, the capital city of Santo Domingo is a large vibrant urban area. The country hosts a number of “firsts” for the so called new world, including the first hospital (the ruins of which you can find at Ruinas del Hospital San Nicolas de Bari located near Las Mercedes) and the first monastery (Monasterio de San Francisco).

The Fantastic Pinones Beach of San Juan, Puerto Rico

Breaking away from the San Juan city limits the most scenic drive is up coastal Highway 187. Along Highway 187 is Pinones, where beach goers beat a path to because of the wonderful strip of sand. There are still traces of hurricane Hugo which hit in 1989. But the best thing we liked about Pinones is the paved bike path that runs some six miles through mangroves, rock formations, and hugs the coast.

You’ll see the signs off the Highway, and note a mile-long gravel parking lot. This is your cue for the most popular part of the beach. It is here that an offshore rock ledge forms an almost mile-long natural pool where families come to enjoy the sandy bottom and super calm water. And it’s never more than four feet deep! Now you know where to take the little ones, or just bring some cold drinks and chill out in paradise. Hard choices.

If you get to Pinones Beach early, you’ll be able to stake out one of the few coconut palms. If you don’t, make sure you bring some sort of shade.

When here, you’ll be able to count the many aircraft taking off out of San Juan International Airport. The beach and coast lie right in the flight path. And that’s the reason why one of the more popular surf breaks here is appropriately called “Aviones.”

Further east, we noted miles upon miles of sand dunes with coconut palms dotting them. It would seem you could hike along them for a day, but you’d probably be trespassing at some point. Make sure you take a canteen and a camera if you go.

Because of the rock ledge, swimming isn’t the best. But we found a nice swim area called Vacia Telega at the far eastern point of Pinones Beach, about where those dunes start. Don’t worry though. You can tan forever, or fish, as many do. Walk eastward to the point – you’ll enjoy the view.

One last tip – bring some drink and food as there isn’t always the occasional beach vendor here. But down at the west end of the strip, we did find El Pulpo Loco, with seafood and guess what?! Mountain bikes to rent! Make sure you ride the trail.

The Best Beaches of Greece for Holidays

Mykonos is famous for its beach culture that’ll help golden-up your tan. For the best beaches, head to the southern part of the island. These islands also have quaint fishing villages, seal watching opportunities, as well as an ancient language and culture.

Holiday resorts on other Greek islands are numerous and widespread, so that there is sure to be Greece package holidays that appeal to everyone, with just the right blend of nightlife, culture and relaxation. You will note that Palmyra Beach is ideally located for travelers who wish to broaden their knowledge of Greek culture and learn more about ancient Greek art and mythology. Hotel guests can commute easily to the Greek ancient sites of Athens to the Acropolis , to Cape Sounion, to museums and to other major historical sites. The alternating invaders, the peaceful settlers, and the country’s position at the crossroads between east and west, have all left their mark on the Greek cultural landscape. Archaeological sites abound in the country side, and museums in cities protect priceless artifacts from antiquity.

There are an almost endless number of beach resorts in idyllic locations around the world. From the party beach resorts of Ibiza to the secluded beaches of the Greek Islands or the tourist hotspots of Malaga and the Playa de las Americas, there is a beach holiday suited to every beach lover. Though most of the beaches here are built up with resorts, they are gorgeous enough to attract visitors, some rich and famous, from around the world. On this relatively large island there are numerous small villages, some with relatively deserted beaches. There are many resorts and organized beaches along Crete’s north coast, with the less crowded options on the south and west side. Whichever island you choose to visit, there will be a wealth of beaches waiting for you.

Most resorts have private beaches beyond the public beach area and the water’s edge. Visitors staying in the resorts, apartments and beach clubs here enjoy a quieter beach experience. In the same time, many resorts offer all inclusive vacation packages, that are the best way to really enjoy relaxed beach holidays. Athens can be a good platform where from tourists can explore other regions of Greece like: Corinth, Epidaurus, Makedonia with its capital city Thessaloniki and Mycenae. The busiest and best-known beach resort on the island is Skala Eresou on the west coast which attracts a mixed bag of holiday hordes – from north European package holidaymakers and hippy types to archaeologists and lesbian groups. The three-kilometre sandy beach here comes a close second to Vatera and offers all manner of tourist facilities including seafront tavernas with wooden dining platforms by the water.

With more than 2,000 islands, ranging from tiny atolls to the veritable continent that is Crete, maritime Greece is unmatched for sheer variety. Beaches, history, walking, cycling, water sports, festivals, food ecology: chances are if you want it, they’ve got it. Style bars in Heraklion (Crete) can serve the locals such vegan beery delights as Chimay and Hoegaarden. Blessed by Mother Nature, Crete delights the senses with its fertile valleys, mountain peaks, sacred caves, and fresh local goat cheese, basil, figs, and wine. This is a great place to explore (by car) and relax for a week if you’re not interested in island hopping.

Top Places To Visit in Australia

Australia has something for just about everyone. From simple holidays to culture filled excitement, there are all sorts of options to enjoy. Here are ten of the must see places and events around Australia that you can consider for your next holiday.

1. 
   

   Sydney

Sydney is Australia’s number one travel destination in terms of number of visitors. The Sydney Opera House was completed in the 1960's. The unique design for the facility, coupled with the excellent acoustics, make this cultural icon a must see stop that even persons who are not interested in opera will enjoy.

One of the great things about Sydney is there is both culture and lots of fun activities as well. The beaches provide some of the most beautiful ocean side playgrounds in the entire world. Visitors can spend endless hours enjoying the sun and pristine sands, then enjoy tours into some of the surrounding bush areas. Later, a night out on the town is easy to manage, with an array of night spots that will accommodate just about every interest. While in town, don't forget to admire the spectacular Harbour Bridge.

2. Cairns & the Great Barrier Reef

Far North Queensland is a wonderful tropical paradise. Cairns is the main entry point and from there you can travel north or south and out to beautiful island resorts. Luxury holiday homes are a great accommodation option in this part of Australia.

The Great Barrier Reef is known as the world's largest coral reef, the Great Barrier Reef stretches along the Queensland coast for a distance of approximately 35 million hectares. Many varieties of fish and other forms of sea life make the Reef home, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about and observe. As a family opportunity, the Great Barrier Reef is an activity that will fascinate even the most jaded of travelers.

3. Brisbane

While visiting along the Great Barrier Reef, Brisbane is the place to go when you need a taste of the big city. Located in Queensland, the city is known for spectacular night spots that offer a little something for everyone, as well as a range of cuisine that is considered to be the best in Australia by many visitors.

4. Melbourne

Considered by many to be the emotional heart of Australia, Melbourne offers a mix of modern architecture and amenities along with some of the most beautiful examples of Victorian architecture in the world. Shopping and food that ranges from fine cuisine to guilty pleasures can easily be found at Federation Square and the New Quay.

5. The Great Ocean Road

No visit to Australia is complete without enjoying the view from the Great Ocean Road. Running for over two hundred miles along the coastline in the area of Victoria, the view is breathtaking any time of the year. There are plenty of interesting local restaurants to try along the way, as well as several great places to stop and enjoy a beer. The Great Ocean Road is a wonderful drive over a weekend or stay a little longer at a holiday rental property.

6. The Red Centre including Uluru-Tjuta National Park

Found in the Northern Territory, the Red Centre is considered to be the physical center spot of Australia. Tourists will enjoy viewing the Ayers Rock, which is also known as Uluru. Viewing Uluru is considered to be an ideal activity at sunrise and sunset, when the range of colors across the red rock seem to waver and change in fascinating patterns.

Uluru-Tjuta National Park is an area that functions as both a wildlife preserve and a national park. Along with the Ayers Rock, the part also encompasses such sites as Alice Springs and the Olgas.

7. Canberra

Canberra is the Capital of Australia and a fascinating place to see. Visit Parliament House, the National Gallery of Australia, the National Library, National Archives which feature old movies, records, books and artifacts as well as the War Memorial. Four days is Canberra is adequate to see most of the attractions.

8. Adelaide

Considered to be the doorway into the Outback, Adelaide is a thriving city that includes some of the most prestigious vineyards in the country. There are a number of places around the city that are ideal for getting away from it all for a few days, as well as enjoying a night life that is low key but very active.

9. Tasmania

Tasmania offers breathtaking scenery, hiking and camping. Just off the coast, the main land you can reach Tasmania by car ferry or by short flight. Hobart is a stunning town on the Derwent river and features colonial architecture. The local food produce is deliciously fresh and restaurants reasonably priced.
Rent-A-Home.com.au lists a wide range of Holiday Accommodation in Australia including Holiday Rentals, Holiday Apartments, Holiday Homes and Serviced Apartments for short or long stay. For more information on Holiday Apartments Sydney, Serviced Apartments Sydney, visit http://www.rent-a-home.com.au.

By Samuell Armstrong

The Raja Ampat Islands, In The Heart of The Coral Triangle

The archipelago is a series of four adjacent group of islands located in the western part of the Bird's Head (Vogelkoop) Guinea. Administratively, this group is under the Raja Ampat, West Papua Province.
The islands are now the destination of the divers who are interested in the beauty of the scenery below lautnya.Empat group of islands which are members named by the four largest islands, namely Pulau Waigeo, Misool Island, Salawati Island, and Island Batanta.

The origin of the name of Raja Ampat by local myth comes from a woman who found seven eggs. Four grains of which hatch into four princes who separated and each became a powerful king in Waigeo, Salawati, Misool Misool East and West. Meanwhile, three other eggs became a ghost, a woman, and a stone.

In the course of history, the Raja Ampat Islands have long been inhabited by fishing communities and apply the customary system of Maluku. In this system, the community is a member of a village community. Each village is headed by a king. Since the founding of two Muslim sultanate in the Moluccas, Raja Ampat to be part of the Sultanate Tidore claims. After the defeat of the Dutch Empire Tidore, Raja Ampat Islands became part of the Dutch East Indies claim.

Raja Ampat Islands society generally traditional fishermen who resided in small villages are located far apart and different islands. They are a friendly community receive visitors from outside, especially if we bring a souvenir for them in the form of nut or candy. This item is a kind of 'peace pipe indian' in Raja Ampat. Events chatting with eating nut, also called "Para-para Pinang" often take turns throwing each other mob, the local term for funny stories.

They are followers of Islam and Christianity, and often within a family or clan members who have embraced one of the two religions. It makes the people of Raja Ampat remain in harmony despite different beliefs. They are followers of Islam and Christianity, and often within a family or clan members who have embraced one of the two religions. It makes the people of Raja Ampat remain in harmony despite different beliefs.

Tropical Paradise Island Derawan, Kalimantan (Borneo)

Welcome to the lovely tropical islands in the area of Kalimantan (Borneo), Derawan Island. An island with a sea-colored blue and green shades are stunning, soft sand, rows of coconut palms on the coast, with a small forest in the middle of the island which is the habitat of various species of plants and animals and the natural beauty of the enchanting underwater . No wonder if this island could be ranked as a top three world-class dive destination and make this island a dream island for divers.

It is easy to reach this beautiful island. You can simply fly for about 3 hours to Aberdeen by plane from Jakarta, Surabaya, Yogyakarta or Denpasar. From Balikpapan, you still have to fly to Cape Redeb dive one hour by plane KAL Star, Deraya or DAS. In addition, Cape Redeb can also be reached by sea, with boarded the ship from Samarinda Tarakan to Tanjung Redeb or followed by a motorboat hire.

Since 1993, the island is managed by PT.Bhuni Manimbora Derawan Interbuana by providing facilities such as cottages, diving equipment, Speedboat and restaurants. In addition, there are also lodging run by local people, such as Danakan, Derawan Lester III, Derawan Lester I & II. Lodging Hams and Yogi Mas provides rooms for about Rp.45.000 until Rp.100.000/malam. In the vicinity there are many options Derawan Island restaurants and cafes that you can choose as a place to dine.

Around the Island Derawan, diving as much as 28 points have been identified. To explore all these points at least it takes about 10 days with one dive at each point. To move from one point to another, you can use the ship. In the meantime, you can explore the island on foot.

In this Derawan Island, many activities you can do, especially activities related to marine tourism, such as:
* Diving; you can see different types of fish such as shark, dugong or Mermaid, arracuda, green turtles and so forth.
* Swimming, snorkeling, and fishing
* Walking along the beach
* Observing the green turtle

Boracay Island Philippines; An Exotic Tropical Beach Vacation Destination

Boracay Island Philippines

The beach has always been the perfect choice for a holiday vacation. Whether you are planning of a vacation strolling in the mainland coast or in a tropical island paradise, there is nothing more rejuvenating than the sensation of sands between your toes, mild ocean breeze touching your skin and rhythm of roaring waves rushing into the shore.

You can opt to spend your holiday in some of the worlds best beaches. It can be Florida the emerald coast, Hawaii famed for its deep-black sand shores, Mexico and Caribbean - which has long been popular for its stunning beaches. However, if you are looking for a new and exotic beach vacation experience, then Boracay Island Philippines is the perfect destination.

Boracay Island is one of the premier tourist destinations in the world and is famed for its naturally palm-fringed coast, powdery sugar-white sands, crystal clear azure waters and stunning sunsets unmatched anywhere else in the world. It is known as Mother Natures secret haven which she had blessed with rich marine biodiversity, picturesque hills, rolling mountains, sprawling greens and lush tropical rainforest.

This tropical island paradise is not only rich with natural resources, it also boasts of scads of deluxe Boracay accommodations. One of which is Nigi Nigi Boracay Beach Resort the only Boracay Island Hotel that offers deluxe Boracay accommodation for less. It gives guests a unique and different atmosphere as it is built on native pagoda cottages with Polynesian architecture set in alush tropical garden.

Nigi Nigi Boracay Beach resorts beachfront is known to be islands best bathing area and offers many diversions for all ages. Water sports such as surfing, para-sailing and scuba diving Boracay are popular. If you prefer a more serene holiday, you can opt for awe-inspiring activity such as snorkeling or sunbathing. Kids can also enjoy picking beautiful seashells, building sand castles or running wildly on the shore.

At Nigi Nigi Boracay Beach Resort you can immerse yourself in the vibrant Boracay lifestyle, stay in a deluxe Boracay accommodation at a very affordable price and experience the ultimate tropical island paradise getaway.

Swanky Tower Of London

swanky tower of london

Beach Life in Bali is Pure Fun in The Sun, Indonesia

Explore tropical destinations.. A little paradise island - Bali, Indonesia - the popular destination for beachcombers in search of sun, sand and surf. Let's GO..

As the temperature gets chillier in many Northern Hemisphere countries, tropical destinations around South East Asia region seem all the more attractive. Among the top destinations, a little paradise Island located in Island Country, Indonesia like Bali will always be a decent choice for many tourists from around the world. With their bona fide friendly nature and ingenious for hospitality, the Balinese make the island an even more popular destination to beachcombers in search of sun, sand and surf.

Bali also has a variety of beach options to suit every kind of traveler. Let’s say if you’re one of the surfing addicts you will love to experience some extraordinary and differences from here. There are the popular surf spots of Kuta and Legian, the luxurious and private shores of Nusa Dua, the chic and romantic Seminyak beach and the beautifully serene locale of Sanur.

Says seasoned traveler Ganesh Manickavasagar, Director of D’Casting Company, "Bali is one of those locations where you really feel an affinity with the environment. The picturesque beaches, charming people and traditional culture combine together to create a unique experience that really is unmatched by other tropical destinations."

With its clean break waves and lengthy golden shore, Kuta town – a former fishing village - has been a favourite among surfers since the 1970s. These days, the area is something of a tourist Mecca, offering a prime nightlife and entertainment scene in addition to its vast array of beach activities and hotels. Since it was one of the first towns on Bali to see substantial tourist development, the area with long sandy beach is also brimming with shopping options, with everything from branded luxury clothes and accessories to bohemian beach wear.

The Kuta town and surrounding suburbs are suitable for all types of tourists including seasoned solo surfers, young groups of friends, couples and families. It is an epicenter for surf, sun and fun – but not necessarily peace and quiet. For this year’s summer high season, Agoda.com has hot deals around Kuta beach and the suburbs of Legian at Santika Beach Hotel, The Rani Hotel and Spa, Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel and Legian Beach Hotel.

Bali is my favorite holiday spot. I’m from Sydney, Australia and love surfing back home but Bali has a different, more laid back feel. I love the food, the people and Balinese culture. Also, you cannot get a beach massage Balinese style at such a cheap price back home; they’re sublime!" says frequent Bali traveler and customer service manager, Natalie Brooks.

Not far from Kuta town is the trendy Seminyak beach. Quickly earning a reputation for being a sleek, boutique hotspot, Seminyak has a first-rate swimming beach and a number of designer accommodation and fine dining options. Agoda recommendations include the Resor Seminyak Resort & Spa, Pelangi Bali Hotel, the opulent Oberoi Hotel or a little nice hotel like Vira Bali Hotel.

The luxurious beach cove of Nusa Dua is a favorite among those traveling to Bali, because of its calm, tranquil atmosphere and inviting turquoise waters. It is a perfect place for romancing honeymooners but also for those with a passion for underwater life – there are good diving and snorkeling spots to be found in this area. Agoda has special discounts at Nikko Resort & Spa, Melia Benoa Hotel and Nusa Dua Resort & Spa, all known for their splendid outdoor landscaping, Balinese architecture and high levels of service.

Closer to Denpasar, the quiet beach of Sanur is a pleasant alternative to the highly developed and more popular beach spots of Bali. Everything at Sanur moves at a leisurely pace, and guests can experience a more traditional Bali, with local fishermen bringing in their catch of the day and the soothing sounds of the nearby temple, offering a unique atmosphere. Agoda has special hotel rates at Sanur Beach Hotel, Mercure Sanur Hotel and Sri Phala Resort and Villas.

That won’t be all from enough reasons why this little Island calls Bali is placed right in the heart of many tourists especially among beachcombers who keep visiting their favorite times after times, years after years. More Travel Reviews & Information around Asia and South East Asia region or Asia Hotel Reservations at great deal – Please visit Agoda.com

By Pete Prinyaroje

Wonderful Baltic Beach Holiday

That could be a difficult question to answer as we think the Baltic beaches are one of the best kept secrets in Europe. Expect to be surprised, delighted and want to return time and time again; as you will experience some of the best beaches and one of the most beautiful coastlines on the Continent.

Tourism to Bali Island

Bali, a tropical island in the Indonesian archipelago, is so picturesque and immaculate it could almost be a painted backdrop. It has rice paddies tripping down hillsides like giant steps, volcanoes soaring up through the clouds, dense tropical jungle, long sandy beaches, warm blue water, crashing surf and friendly people who don't just have a culture but actually live it. In Bali spirits come out to play in the moonlight, every night is a festival and even a funeral is an opportunity to have a good time.

Bali Island, the perfect holiday destination for all ages offers something for everyone. This tropical paradise has a unique blend of modern tourist facilities combined with wonderful shopping and a rich past and heritage. The Balinese people are proud of having preserved their unique Hindu culture against the advance of Islam, the dominant religion throughout Indonesia. This is still reflected in day to day life and can be seen in the numerous ceremonies, Balinese festivals and magnificent temples and palaces. Some of the best surfing beaches in the world can be found on the western side of the island whilst conversely the eastern side is a wonderful haven for families, with beautiful white sand beaches and gentle seas.

Bali Island is a shopper's paradise particularly for casual and tailored clothing, locally made jewellery, handicrafts, antiques and artifacts. Leather ware is one of the unexpected local bargains with everything from handbags through to tailor made leather jackets and coats, all at unbelievable prices. In fact, prices are so inexpensive, you're sure to need more room in your suitcase! Try bargaining at the street markets of Kuta, Sanur of Nusa Dua or fixed price shopping at a Denpasar department store. Bali has it all.

Destination Guides- To Jalalabad, Nangarhar

Jalalabad, capital of Nangarhar province with a population of 60,000 in eastern Afghanistan, near the Khyber Pass. The city dominates the entrances to the Laghman and Kunar valleys and is a leading trading center with India and Pakistan. Oranges, rice, and sugarcane grow in the fertile surrounding area, and the city has cane-processing and sugar-refining as well as papermaking industries. Jalalabad is a military center and a winter resort. It summer like weather all year round attracts many visitors. Present-day Jalalabad was the major city of the ancient Greco-Buddhist center of Gandhara. Babur, founder of the Mughal empire of India, chose the site for the modern city, which was built c.1570 by his grandson, Akbar. During the First Afghan War, British troops held (1842) Jalalabad against an Afghan siege. The Pashtuns constitute most of the population. The city has a university and medical school.

Destination Guides- To Kabul Afganistan

 Destination Guides- To Kabul Afganistan

Kabul, city in east central Afghanistan, capital of the country and Kabul Province. Kabul is on the Kabul River, situated at an elevation of about 1800 m (about 5900 ft) making it one of the highest capital cities in the World. The population is around 1 million people. The nation's chief economic and cultural center, it has long been of strategic importance because of its proximity to the Khyber Pass, an important pass in the mountains between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Manufactures of the city include textiles, processed food, chemicals, and wood products. Tajiks are the predominant population group of Kabul, and Pashtuns are an important minority. Kabul University (founded in 1932) had been the country's most important institute of higher education prior to its closure due to war in 1992. The university was the best known in the region in the 1970 and 1980's. The university now is being partially reopened and only a few students are returning. The University needs much reconstruction in order to operate normally.

An ancient community, Kabul rose to prominence in 1504, when it was made the capital of the Moghul Empire by the conqueror Babur. Delhi replaced it as the imperial capital in 1526, but Kabul remained an important Moghul center until it was captured, in 1738, by the Persian ruler Nadir Shah. In 1747 Kabul became part of an independent Afghan state, and in the 1770s it replaced Qandahar as the capital of Afghanistan. It was a focus of British, Persian, and Russian rivalry for control of the Khyber Pass in the 19th century, when it was twice occupied (1839-1842 and 1879-1880) by British troops. The city grew as an industrial center after 1940.

Kabul was occupied by troops of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) in 1979; the USSR withdrew from Afghanistan on Feb. 15, 1989. The city has gone through the toughest and most disastrous civil war in its history between 1992-1996. Over 50,000 people lost their lives during the Mujahideen infightings on the streets of Kabul in 1992-1996  period. The city has been under the control of the Taliban government since 1996 and ended in 2001. The Northern Alliance took over the city as the Taliban withdrew from Kabul and retreated southwards. The fate of the city is yet to be known. The role of UN and World community is important in bringing a stable government in Kabul.

Infrastructures such as roads and traffic system, telephone system, electricity, water sanitation, renovation of buildings are in shambles and the need for reconstruction is very much needed to bring back the city of Kabul to a better place for living.

The Pasir Putih Beach,Situbondo East Java

Pasir Putih Beach is a maritime and nature tourism object because it lies between a sea and a mountain. And it said that the Situbondo Pasir Putih Beach became known because of its nice and beautiful, concave beach, with its sparkling white sand. The sea, the beach, the forest and the mountain are the main tourist attractions that you can enjoy.

Pasir Putih tourist resort lies on the north coast of East Java and along Bungatan district - 21 km to the west of the centre of Situbondo and easily accessible by any transportation because it is by the side of a main road from Surabaya to Banyuwangi. It is 174 km from Surabaya to Pasir Putih Beach and takes about 4 hours by bus and about 2 hours from Ketapang, Banyuwangi

Some tourist Attractions in Pasir Putih

As a marine tourism resort, Situbondo Pasir Putih Beach is the ideal place to practice water sports, such as swimming, diving, and wind surfing. This beach also often becomes the water sports competition arena, either of regional, or national scale. Like wind surfing, sailing, as well as traditional fishing boat competitions, are often held here.
Many attractions that you can enjoy over there, they are:

• Diving.
  If you like Diving and under water adventure, Pasir Putih will bring you to your special satisfaction because it has beautiful under water life such as coral reef and colorful fishes.
• Canoeing.
  Pasir Putih provides those who like canoeing with fiber glass canoeing board.
• Swimming.
  It's very nice to swimming in the warm seawater of Pasir Putih tourism resort after having a great hike.
• Sailing on the traditional boat. You can have great fishing or just having a close look at beautiful coral reef and colorful fishes.
• Wonderful sunrise and sunset will give you special impression while your stay over there.
• In October, you can see “ Petik Laut” (traditional feast for fishermen held to ask for the God's mercy and blessing, in order to get prosperity by holding some festivals, shows of traditional music like “Gandrung” and also by throwing some food, cakes, the head of an ox to the sea in special ceremony.

Public Facilities
Pasir Putih tourist resort is under Situbondo local government management and operated by a state enterprise of the local authority. It provides visitor with some necessary facilities such as:

• Hotels and cafes. There are some hotels such as Sido Muncul Hotel which has 44 rooms, Mutiara Hotel which has 12 rooms, Pasir Putih Hotel which has 21 rooms, 10 motels and 26 cottages, 2 cafes, convention building enough for 1000 people and a large parking area.
• All night diners, which sell various seafood
• Art and souvenir shops. You can buy some wooden handicraft and others.
• Sightseeing Huts
• A tennis court
• Camping area
• Public convenience and playground
• A swimming pool
• A convention hall
• Car rental and it is cost 350.000 for 18 hours (not including driver and fuel)

The route
You can get to Pasir Putih from two directions. First, from Bungurasih (Surabaya bus station), you can take the bus going to Banyuwangi and the fare is 16.000 rupiahs by a regular bus and it takes about 4 hours, but the fare is 26.000 rupiahs if you take patas bus (an air conditioned two-two seat which round trip route in one province with fixed fares). The second direction is from Banyuwangi, you can take the bus station with the bus fare of 13.000 rupiahs and from the station you can take a public transportation (bemo) or regular bus and fare is about 2.500 rupiahs..